EKF Launches Next Generation Hemo Control POC Hemoglobin Analyzer

EKF Diagnostics, the global diagnostics company, announces that it has launched its next generation Hemo Control point-of-care (POC) diagnostics analyzer, providing laboratory accurate hemoglobin and hematocrit results in one simple test. Uniquely the new hemoglobin POC analyzer enables full upgrade with Data Management functionality as required, giving the user complete flexibility over their future connectivity options via its bi-directional interface.

In addition to delivering accuracy and reliability of results, the new Hemo Control can easily communicate with hospital and laboratory systems. Using the new LIS2-A2 communication standard, this bi-directional interface allows the analyzer to connect directly to third party software and enable simple integration with LIS (Laboratory Information System) middleware. LIS2-A2 succeeds the ASTM communication standard commonly used for small to mid-size analyzers and is easier to integrate than POCT-1A.

Available as a cost effective basic device which stores up to 4000 patient results, the new Hemo Control offers enhanced on-board Data Management (DM) functions following upgrade with the DM ‘add pack’ if required at a later date. In addition to enabling lists to be sent directly from the LIS to Hemo Control, DM upgrade also offers barcode identification of patients, operators, cuvette LOT and control materials, as well as quality control with lock-out functions and the ability to add comments to results.

Hemo Control requires no docking station when handling on-board data management as it uses simple cable connections (e.g. RS-232 to USB or LAN), or integrated Bluetooth technology which is available with Hemo Control Manager – the top of the range device available with preinstalled DM functions.

As a highly robust, portable analyzer, Hemo Control is designed to provide quantitative, lab quality results for both hemoglobin and hematocrit (imprecision of <2%) from 25 seconds for blood banks, hospitals and clinics. User friendly with step-by-step on-screen instructions and no calibration or maintenance needed, Hemo Control requires minimal training. Furthermore, this compact analyzer uses NXT shape microcuvette technology, which enables improved finger stick sample collection by virtually eliminating appearance of air bubbles.

Commenting on the introduction of the next generation Hemo Control, Katja Lemburg, Global Product Manager for Hematology, said, “Our new Hemo Control with flexible DM upgrade and bi-directional connectivity is ideal for customers who wish to keep their connectivity options open. This may be because they are planning on future connection of POC devices to the LIS, but have yet to decide; or they may need to split costs, for budgetary reasons, by upgrading at a later date.”