[A novel compact digital amplifier to control a medical equipment (Graseby 3500 pump) by Macintosh computer without...

Most medical equipments now incorporate a digital RS-232 C interface, which enables to log data and/or control equipments by computers. Although the standard voltage specification of RS-232 C is minimum +/- 3 volts, certain devices, such as Graseby syringe driven pump model 3500 (U.K.), need higher voltage than the standard to reduce the risk of electromagnetic interference. Since the output voltage of serial port of Macintosh (Apple Computer Inc.) computer and other portable computers is around +/- 5 volts, an additional voltage amplifier is necessary to control such external devices. A compact digital signal amplifier was developed by using a general RS-232 C driver IC (MAX 232 E, Maxim USA). Bulky external power supply could be eliminated, because power was obtained through digital signal lines themselves.