Medical imaging has become a cornerstone of modern healthcare, enabling non-invasive insights into the human body to accurately diagnose, treat and monitor conditions. In this blog, we look at the key power supply requirements for medical imaging equipment and how manufacturers can overcome the common challenges they face.
Overview
- Power supplies are essential for the reliable operation of medical imaging technologies, ensuring compliance with safety standards like IEC 60601-1.
- Challenges for device designers include minimizing electromagnetic interference, precise voltage and current control, and managing space constraints.
- Power solutions that enhance system integration and reduce medical imaging device operational costs are key to achieving successful patient outcomes.
From X-rays and MRIs to CT scans, ultrasound, and nuclear imaging, medical imaging technologies play a critical role in detecting diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and neurological disorders at an early stage. As the global medical imaging market continues to expand—fueled by an aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases—the demand for reliable, high-performance imaging systems has never been more pressing.
Device designers have an exhausting list of challenges to overcome and, behind the scenes, ensuring these sophisticated imaging systems function flawlessly requires power supplies that meet a stringent set of demands. Top of this list are the following:
Patient safety comes first
Safety is non-negotiable in medical settings. Power supplies for imaging equipment must comply with international safety standards, such as IEC 60601-1, which ensure electrical isolation, protection against shocks, and minimal leakage current. These standards are crucial for safeguarding both patients and healthcare professionals, with any deviation potentially leading to severe consequences.
Reliability under pressure
During critical medical procedures, there’s no room for equipment failure. Power supplies must be engineered for longevity and reliability, incorporating robust components and fail-safes that ensure uninterrupted operation, which is essential for consistent patient care.
Minimizing noise and electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Imaging equipment is highly sensitive to both audible noise and electromagnetic interference, which can distort images and result in inaccurate diagnoses. To maintain the clarity and precision of imaging results, power supplies must minimize both types of interference.
Precision in voltage and current control
High quality imaging depends on the precise control of voltage and current. Power supplies need to deliver stable, consistent power to ensure that imaging systems function accurately, producing the detailed images required for proper diagnosis.
Adaptability and scalability
Different imaging technologies come with varying power demands. Power supplies that offer configurability and scalability allow manufacturers to customize solutions for specific applications, enhancing flexibility and efficiency across a range of systems.
Space-savings
Given the space constraints in many medical environments, compact power supplies with high power density are essential. These solutions help maximize space efficiency without compromising performance.
Preventing overheating
Power supplies must be capable of converting energy efficiently to minimize heat generation. High efficiency and effective thermal management are vital for maintaining stable operation, reducing energy consumption, and preventing overheating, which could lead to equipment failure.
Advanced power solutions address common challenges
Power supply issues can significantly impact the performance of medical imaging equipment. Here’s how solutions from XP Power can address some of the most common challenges faced by manufacturers including safety concerns, precision control and reducing power losses.
Safety and EMC
Safety is critical in a medical situation. Medical imaging devices generally require medical safety approvals. Power supplies which incorporate these protocols into their design reduce development time for the device manufacturers down the line, giving them a level of confidence that the device will meet medical safety standards.
Adapting to single-phase power availability
In locations where three-phase power isn’t available, XP Power’s HP range of programmable AC-DC power supplies offers a universal single-phase input (90-264 VAC), providing flexibility in a wider range of settings without sacrificing performance.
Controlling power supply units
For systems that require precise control over power supplies, the HP range offers output current and voltage programmability down to 0%. Firmware configuration through a user-friendly interface allows for flexible application design and tailored system integration, ensuring that power supplies can be managed according to specific needs.
Overcoming space constraints in high power applications
High power density and a compact footprint are crucial for minimizing the overall size of imaging equipment. The HP range offers solutions that are both powerful and space-efficient, enabling scalability without increasing system size.
Enhancing system integration and health monitoring
Without adequate controls and monitoring, inefficiencies and maintenance costs can skyrocket. XP Power’s HP range includes built-in digital controls, signals, and alarms, enhancing system integration, improving health visibility, and optimizing overall system design, ultimately reducing costs.
Stabilizing connected loads
Load fluctuations can cause instability in imaging systems. The HP range’s auto-toggle feature between constant current and constant voltage modes ensures stability, protecting both the power supply and the imaging equipment.
Reducing power losses and excess noise
Constantly running fans can create unnecessary noise and waste energy. High efficiency power supplies with intelligent fan speed control reduce waste heat, minimize audible noise, and lower operating costs, contributing to a quieter and more efficient medical environment.
Summary
As the demand for advanced medical imaging continues to grow, so does the need for reliable, efficient, and adaptable power supplies. XP Power’s HP range of programmable AC-DC power supplies rises to meet these challenges, offering digital signal processing, multiple communication protocols, full user-configurable functionality, and scalability. With the right power supply solutions, medical imaging systems can operate safely and efficiently, ensuring optimal performance and the best possible outcomes for patients.
For more information on our programmable power supplies for healthcare, please contact us.
Shravan Govindaraj
Shravan Govindaraj is XP Power’s Product Marketing Manager. He has over 5 years of experience in technical sales and product marketing across multiple industries including HVAC, electric motors and power supplies. Shravan joined XP Power in 2022 to develop and implement go-to-market strategies for all XP Power products.
