So, you’ve been told that your latch needs work, but if it’s not affecting your imaging does it really matter?
The latch on your connector is important because it is connected to the locking mechanism. If it is not functioning correctly, the connector can be loose in the machine socket which can result in poor connectivity with the machine resulting in poor image quality. Faulty latching mechanisms can also develop to a point where they no longer latch into the machine at all.
Because the latch is attached to the locking mechanism, and the internal structure is housed inside the connector’s case, the mobility of the latch can often indicate the conditions inside the connector too.
For example, if a latch is stiff or unable to reach a full 90o turn, it tells us that there is a problem inside the casing – usually a build up of debris or corrosion.
It is important to have your probes tested as soon as you notice any changes in their functionality. No one likes unnecessary spending – especially on something you feel is unimportant. However, when it comes to your ultrasound transducers, mitigative repairs will save you thousands in the long run.
You can test if your latch is stiff by turning the handle from side to side. Does it offer resistance? If you are finding it hard to turn, you should send your probe in to be tested.
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So what should you be looking for and checking regularly on your ultrasound probes? Here is a guide
How should you be cleaning your general ultrasound probes? Here is a guide
Sometimes it isn’t always as simple as looking for dropout. In this case you can see that phased array probes don’t show dropout clearly.
It really does make sense to repair your probes instead of taking large service contracts with the OEMs. Especially if you have a fleet of machines so that you can spread your risk. Become your own insurance company with very little risk! Here is some information on this approach
If you require any assistance for anything ultrasound related. Don’t hesitate to contact us.