Medical equipment to get USB support

The new specification will enable health-related devices, such as blood pressure cuffs and exercise watches, to connect via USB to consumer electronic products, such as PCs and health appliances. Interoperability of health-related devices and consumer electronic products will facilitate the communication between patient and doctor, individual and fitness coach, or elderly person and a remote caregiver.

“The USB-IF is pleased to see the medical device industry embrace a proven industry standard such as USB for connectivity,” said Jeff Ravencraft, USB-IF president. “Millions of users already benefit from USB’s ease-of-use and interoperability. The USB-IF is working to deliver that same great user experience into the medical devices doctors and patients depend on.”