Connectivity Solutions in Medical Technology

Table of contents

1. What role do connectors play in medical technology?
2. Connectors: robust & durable
3. Connectors & cables: optimally tuned
4. Innovative laser marking for medical devices in the EU
5. High-quality connectors at Bürklin Elektronik

What role do connectors play in medical technology?

Especially in hospitals, the failure-free functionality and permanent availability of medical systems are relevant. Connectors play an essential role in this area. After all, they are jointly responsible for ensuring that machines and equipment are supplied with power or that data transmission from device to device is guaranteed.

This is precisely why flawless workmanship and reliability are the first and most important requirements for connectivity solutions in the medical sector.

Manufacturers are aware of this responsibility and invest a great deal of time in developing high-quality connectors for medical technology. In doing so, they face major challenges. After all, in addition to the reliability of corresponding systems, other product properties are essential.

Connectors: robust & durable

Durability is a key requirement for connectors. The specified number of mating cycles is therefore a decisive factor in determining whether the connector is suitable for the medical sector. In addition, the materials used should be optimally matched to the respective area of application. The following factors are relevant here.

Degree of protection

The so-called IP code can be used to determine the degree of protection offered by the respective product with regard to the ingress of dust and liquids. In most cases, medical connectors have an IP rating of IP54 or higher. Some products are even designed with IP67. In specific areas of application, such as magnetic resonance imaging, high-performance shielding against electromagnetic interference is also required.

Connectors with screw locking usually have very good IP properties. They also offer optimum protection against unintentional disconnection. Push-pull locking systems are also considered very reliable in these areas. Meanwhile, corresponding products are also available in plastic versions. Latching and bayonet connectors are particularly easy to handle and now have IP ratings of up to IP67.

Disinfection & biocompatibility

Medical technology components must also meet the high hygiene standards in hospitals, doctors’ offices etc. In concrete terms, this means that the materials used should be able to withstand the sometimes aggressive chemical cleaning agents as well as possible and also be easy to clean. Manufacturers therefore carry out numerous tests to check the reaction of the connector material to different disinfectants and make the results transparent.

If connectors are used very close to the body, it is also important to check the biocompatibility of the product in accordance with DIN EN ISO 10993. Numerous tests are carried out to determine whether a product could, for example, damage tissue or cells or inhibit their growth.

Connectors & cables: optimally tuned

To ensure a reliable signal or power connection between devices, the respective cables must be matched to the properties of the connector in all essential areas. Various factors play a role here.

On the one hand, the conductor must guarantee the required current carrying capacity and withstand the ambient temperature. In addition, the respective shielding type, the insulation material and the strand structure, but also the size of the assembly solution, the material, the protection class and the shape of the connector are important. It must also be clarified whether active electronic components must be integrated or whether a wire-to-wire connection is the better solution.

In this respect, numerous decisions have to be made with regard to the selection of the appropriate cable. The overriding goal: to match all components to each other in the best possible way.

To ensure an optimal solution for the respective application, numerous manufacturers therefore offer connectors and cable assembly from a single source.

Innovative laser marking for medical devices in the EU

The Medical Device Regulation (MDR) regulates the requirements for medical devices in the EU. For example, it also prescribes the labeling of various components with the traceable UDI code. In concrete terms, this is intended to enable a rapid recall within the supply chain.

Connector manufacturers are also called upon to look for solutions in this area to ensure labeling. The challenge: It must be ensured that imprints etc. do not disappear when devices are cleaned.

With innovative laser marking, various connector manufacturers have found a way to ensure permanent marking.

High-quality connectors at Bürklin Elektronik

Whether for small electrical devices, in agriculture, industry or medical technology, Bürklin Elektronik has a wide range of connectors – from power connectors to automotive connectors to laboratory connectors and much more.

In our online store, individual models can be found easily and ordered immediately.

If you have any questions about the connector products, please contact the experts at Bürklin Elektronik at any time! We will be happy to advise you.