The application of Microprocessors in Medical Instrumentation

What is a Microprocessor?

A microprocessor is a computer processor that incorporates the functions of a central processing unit (CPU) on a single integrated circuit (IC) or sometimes up to 8 integrated circuits. A microprocessor is programmable, multipurpose, clock-driven, register based electronic device that reads binary instructions from a storage device called memory, accepts binary data as input and processes data according to the instructions and then provides results as output.

A digital computer with one microprocessor which acts as a CPU is called Microcomputer.

Application of Microprocessors in Medical Instrumentation

Microprocessors have replaced conventional hard wired electronic systems that were initially used for processing data. This has resulted into a more reliable and faster data. Microprocessor system replaced programming devices as well as manual programming, making it possible for digital control of all the functions in medical instrumentation systems. The availability of more powerful microprocessors and large data storage capacities has made it possible to optimize the measurement conditions.

The incorporation of microprocessors into medical instruments enables us to have a certain amount of intelligence or decision making capability. The decision making capability increases the degree of automation of the instrument and reduces the complexity of the man-machine interface.

You can also read: Basics of a Biomedical Instrumentation System

Life support systems have been designed with numerous safety back-up features and real-time self-diagnostics and self-repair capabilities.  The reliability of many transducers has been improved and many measurements can now be made non-invasively because of the added computational ability of microprocessors.

The computation capability of microprocessors makes it possible for features such as automatic calibration, operator guidance, trend displays, alarm priority and automated record keeping.

Microprocessors have been used to replace the complicated instructional procedures that are now required in some medical instruments. Microprocessors based instrumentation has enabled the ability to make intelligent judgement and provide diagnostic signals/warnings in case of potential error or even take appropriate corrections!