Image quality is the cornerstone of diagnostic ultrasound. A faint artifact, poor definition or unstable signal can be the difference between a confident diagnosis and uncertainty. Although significant focus is given to the transducer and imaging software, the probe cable is an equally important link. It forms the essential connection between the probe and the processing unit carrying the high frequency signal. Degradation anywhere along the signal path impacts the images. Hotten’s high-quality ultrasound probe cables maintain signal integrity so you are sure that the image you see reflects the patient’s condition.
Ultrasound transducers transmit at frequencies of 2 MHz to 20 MHz (and in some special probes even higher). The loss from even a slight impedance mismatch at these frequencies will result in signal reflection and 'ghost' artifacts, loss of definition, reduced contrast etc. Hotten ultrasound probe cables are made with highly accurate characteristic impedance of usually 50 or 75 ohms matching that of the systems. This consistent impedance guarantees that electrical pulses travel from the transducer through to the processing unit with minimal reflection or attenuation. This maintains the amplitude and timing of the echo signals.
In a diagnostic environment electrical noise is a serious concern. Ultrasound systems will usually be found next to computers, monitors, lighting systems and electro-surgical units. Unless the probe cable is thoroughly shielded, ambient EMI may be introduced and transmitted through to the system and the display screen. This will look like noise, grainy picture, a horizontal line etc and it could hide a diagnosis. Hotten uses a multi-layer shielded construction including aluminum-polyester foil together with high density tinned copper braid. This gives up to 100 dB shielding effectiveness and isolates the sensitive ultrasound signals.
The dielectric that insulates each conductor plays an important role in transmitting the signal especially at the high frequencies used and with the emphasis on high resolution where a higher frequency probe is necessary. If high loss dielectrics are used, the signal can be attenuated—particularly at the frequency in question and where signal integrity is most critical. Hotten uses advanced fluoropolymer dielectrics such as FEP and PTFE, the loss factors of which are extremely low. This ensures that the signal speed within the cable is kept constant and the signal amplitude remains as close as possible to that originally transmitted by the probe so that fine detail can be visualized.
The probe and cable will be moved and twisted throughout an examination. Without any anti-microphonic design this motion will generate triboelectric noise because of the relative movement of conductors against the dielectric insulator. This appears as a series of transient artifacts on the display that might well look like movement within tissues or could be mistaken for a lesion. Hotten addresses this by constructing cables with a semi-conductive layer which neutralizes the buildup of charge in the same way as in microphone cables to eliminate triboelectric noise.
Image quality needs to be consistent. An ultrasound probe cable which degrades over time causing loss or an intermittent signal would gradually reduce a user’s confidence in the images displayed on the screen. The highly stranded tinned copper conductors will not fatigue and offer stable electrical performance over many flex cycles. Strain relief at either connector will protect the cable from becoming detached, leading to intermittent connections. All cables are covered with a high-quality polyurethane jacket for durability against wear and tear and for ease of cleaning with disinfectants.
Every cable supplied by Hotten is rigorously tested electrically before being dispatched. Insertion loss is measured to verify compliance with tolerance specifications, while return loss testing ensures minimal internal reflections and proper impedance matching. Capacitance and insulation resistance are also checked to ensure a safe and stable electrical connection. This quality assurance is essential to provide the reliable tool required for definitive diagnoses.
In diagnostic ultrasound quality is everything. A good quality probe cable is not just an accessory but an integral part of the diagnostic process. The cable ensures the signal integrity and shielding are of the highest possible standard in order that even subtle artifacts are suppressed and a high quality image is achieved. Hotten designs and manufactures cables that maintain the detail of the returning echo so that what the clinician sees on the display truly reflects the anatomy.
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