The scope of this standard is an IrDA-based, cable-connected local area network (LAN) for the interconnection of computers and medical devices. This standard is suitable for new device designs, but is particularly targeted to modifications of legacy devices.
The term “legacy devices” refers to equipment that is
— Already in use in clinical facilities
— In active production at the facilities of medical device manufacturers, or
— Beyond the initial stages of engineering development
In each of these cases, the degree of effort to add a standardized communications capability might normally be prohibitive, unless special care is taken in developing a suitable standard.