Datakey Electronics' GammaSafe Portable Memory Line

Medical device manufacturers who produce single-use or limited-use disposable attachments (e.g. catheters, filters, tubing, medical lasers, etc.) that plug in to a base controller can now add a non-volatile memory device to the attachment, even if their attachments contain no active electronics. Adding a GammaSafe memory token to an attachment enables several applications. For example, the GammaSafe memory token can store an encrypted product authentication code to protect against counterfeit disposables. The re-writable memory can also be used to limit the usage of the attachment, ensuring that it is not used more than the prescribed number of times. The disposable's model number and associated parameters, along with calibration information can be written to the GammaSafe token during production; then, in the field, this data can be automatically transferred to the base controller unit, eliminating the chance for human error from incorrect data entry.

In addition to the memory token, the GammaSafe product line includes a line of mating receptacles. The GammaSafe receptacles are based on Datakey Electronics' SlimLine receptacle design and are available in through-hole (GR4220PCB), surface-mount (GR4220SMT), and panel mount (GR4310 and GR4410) models. The panel-mount receptacles are available in splash-proof (IP65-rated), immersion (IP67-rated), and EMI-reduction versions--supporting a variety of medical device applications, especially those with wash-down requirements. GammaSafe receptacles accept both GammaSafe and SlimLine memory tokens--GammaSafe memory tokens for use with disposable attachments, and larger-capacity SlimLine memory tokens for applications like firmware updates or for downloading logged data.

No complex circuitry is needed--the contacts of the GammaSafe receptacle simply connect directly to the microcontroller's SPI port. When the GammaSafe memory token is inserted into the receptacle, the microcontroller can read and write to it just as if it was an SPI EEPROM IC soldered to the board. Further, because the GammaSafe system is contact-based, as opposed to wireless, there is no ambiguity as to which memory device is being read--a frequent concern with RFID and other wireless systems.

The GammaSafe memory token is offered with an optional integrated tether. The optional tether consists of a 5-inch (12.7 cm) cable-tie that has been "pre-looped" and integrated into the head of the memory token. This allows OEMs an easy way to attach the GammaSafe token to their disposable devices. The GammaSafe memory token also features an optional sterilization indicator, which is housed within a recessed window on the front side of the token. Before sterilization, the indicator is yellow/orange in color. After gamma sterilization (10kGy dosage or greater), the indicator changes to a vivid red color. This optional feature enables medical personnel to confirm at-a-glance that the sealed medical device they are about to open has indeed undergone gamma sterilization.