FAQ

ADC sells its products ONLY through authorized dealers. For a list of authorized dealers in your area, call 1-800-ADC-2670 or click here for additional contact information.

ADC partners with the world's leading ISO 9000 subcontractors to produce components incorporating proprietary features and technologies on an exclusive basis. ADC then inspects, assembles, and packages the finished products in its Hauppauge, NY facility. Some products may have as many as 6 different countries of origin!

ADC is a manufacturer and distributor of professional and homecare medical products and only sells through authorized retail dealers.

You can contact us at info@adctoday.com or call toll-free at 1-800-ADC-2670 to let us know you're interested in becoming an authorized dealer. We'll have one of our representatives contact you about setting up an account soon after we receive your communication.

The FDA does not endorse specific medical devices or medical device manufacturers. American Diagnostic Corporation is fully registered with the FDA and in compliance with all state and national regulations governing the manufacture and distribution of medical devices. For information relating to ADC’s registration information, please contact our regulatory department at regaffairs@adctoday.com

A 510(k) number is a premarket notification number that is required for certain classes of medical devices in the US. Generally, devices that are higher risk require premarket notification to the FDA prior to bringing the devices to market. The 510(k) number is issued once a company has proven that a device is substantially equivalent in performance and safety to other devices already existing on the market. ADC manufactures and distributes a number of devices that require premarket notification, and the 510(k) numbers for these devices are available from our regulatory department. It should be noted that devices with less risk are often exempt from the premarket notification requirements.

Yes, ADC has a global distribution network and there may be a distributor in your area! For more information, contact our customer service department and we will be glad to assist you with your international business questions. Click here for contact information

You might be in a region of the world that does not permit Youtube. Our videos are also published on the Vimeo high definition video service and are located at: Vimeo Page

Regrettably ADC can only repair and service products manufactured by ADC. If you need assistance identifying the manufacturer of the brand of product you own, please call our toll free number at 1-800-ADC-2670.

Yes! ADC’s service center will test devices requiring calibration using test equipment calibrated to NIST traceable standards. Where devices require recalibration, this service will be performed free of charge as part of the repair process. Calibration checks are a standard part of the ADC repair service and your device will always be tested prior to its return to you. If a product is under warranty and cannot be recalibrated due to damage, replacement parts will be provided (and tested) during the repair process.

All recalibration services that are performed on gauges include a calibration sticker that will be applied to your device indicating the date that the calibration was performed and the suggested date for recalibration in the future.

ADC can only provide credit for new, unused products and only to ADC retailers who have purchased the product directly from ADC. Please contact the ADC retailer where you purchased the product for information on their return policy. It should be noted that restocking fees may apply for items returned for credit. ADC dealers that wish to return a purchase for credit should contact our customer service department and obtain a return authorization.

If the packaging has been compromised and you suspect the lithium-ion battery in your device has been damaged, do not attempt to charge the battery or use the product. Contact our customer service department at 1-800-ADC-2670 for assistance with your damaged shipment. Note that you should not attempt to re-ship damaged devices that contain lithium-ion batteries; see the sections below for additional details on how to handle these batteries.

Older style Adsoft™ PVC eartips (included on all Adscope® stethoscopes manufactured prior to 2014) are equipped with a threaded insert. If your stethoscope is equipped with threaded eartips, periodically tighten the eartips to ensure security. You may apply Teflon™ tape, or clear nail polish to the binaural thread to improve security without compromising scope performance or jeopardizing warranty coverage. Do not apply the adhesive to the eartips. Before using stethoscope, make sure glue has thoroughly dried.  Should you have further issues with your eartips, or if you would prefer to receive our new silicon Adsoft™ Plus eartips with an adapter for more security, contact ADC for a complimentary replacement pair at info@adctoday.com or call toll-free at 1-800-ADC-2670.
 

Generally speaking, to attenuate certain frequencies. The flat side is equipped with a membrane that is generally referred to as the diaphragm side. The conical or bell shaped side is called the bell. Body sounds generally fall within a frequency range of 50 to 2000 Hz. The diaphragm side is designed to attenuate the lower frequency and accentuate higher frequencies within this range - from 500 to 1000 Hz. The bell side is designed for lower frequencies - from 50 to 500 Hz. Most diaphragm only scopes (ADC 660, 662 and 665 series) are designed for general assessment or blood pressure measurement. Combination scopes (those equipped with both a diaphragm and bell) are designed to provide a broader frequency response. In a typical combination scope, only one side of the chestpiece is "active" at a time. Rotating the chestpiece around its valve stem selects one side and "deactivates" the other. It should be noted that on better quality models there is little or no acoustic leakage from the "deactivated" side.  Our top of the line ADSCOPES with AFD technology allow adjustment of the frequency by altering pressure to the chestpiece.  Light pressure accentuates lower frequencies, while firm pressure accentuates higher frequencies simulating the diaphragm and bell sides of a two sided chestpiece.  ADC offers AFD technology in ½ dozen models ADC produces over a dozen different models of combination scopes with an MSRP from under $2 to nearly $300.

Laboratory tests have demonstrated that shorter tubing provides a better acoustic response. In reality, most people do not have the hearing acuity to detect any performance impact from changes in tubing length unless there is a dramatic change in that length. In fact, the acoustic transmission of lower frequencies, with their longer wavelength, benefit slightly from increases in tubing length. Longer tubing tends to make the scope more convenient to use, but also adds a bit to its weight. Bottom line - tubing length is generally a matter of personal preference.

First and foremost, choose the scope that works best for YOU. Check the fit and comfort; you could be wearing your scope for extended periods of time. Eartips are critical as they are the interface between you and the instrument. Make sure they’re both comfortable and provide a proper seal to optimize sound transmission. ADSOFT eartips, found exclusively in our ADSCOPES provide the ultimate in wearing comfort and acoustic seal. Next, choose a scope that has the features you need within your budget. ADSCOPES are available with MSRP’s from under $20 to about $300 so there’s sure to be a model that’s right for you. Finally, make sure your scope is covered by a comprehensive warranty program and backed by a company with a reputation for customer service. Acoustic ADSCOPES are covered from 5 years to life, depending upon the model. With over 30 industry awards – most of them for service - ADC is one of the most honored names in core diagnostic instruments. It’s a name you can TRUST.

If you need versatility, you may want to select a convertible model - a scope with interchangeable chestpiece fittings such as our ADSCOPE 641 (Sprague series), or ADSCOPE 601 (Convertible Cardiology). Stainless steel is generally the preferred metal; its extra mass tends to help eliminate extraneous acoustic artifacts. So, for best acoustic performance and maximum durability, choose one of our all stainless models - 600, 601, 603, 604, or 605 series. However, there is a weight/performance trade-off and you might prefer a lighter weight model such as the Ultra lightweight Cardiology 606 or the Clinician-lite 609 series. These scopes weigh as little as ½ the weight of their stainless counterparts. Better models tend to have a double tube configuration which provides enhanced stereo separation. Our ADSCOPE 641 has two tubes. Our ADSCOPE Cardiology models - the 600, 601 and 606 series have a single tube with bi-lumen (two tubes in one) design. If you prefer a single sided, sculpted chestpiece choose from any one of our Platinum series ADSCOPEs - the 600, 612, 614, 615 series. These models feature a single sided chestpiece with our Adjustable Frequency Diaphragm(AFD)/Technology. AFD allows you to choose bell or diaphragm performance from a diaphragm only scope. If you prefer AFD Technology in a traditional 2 sided chestpiece, look no further than our Convertible Cardiology 601.

For blood pressure measurement, the ADSCOPE 609 series provides many of the design features of our more expensive models in a lightweight, affordable stethoscope. Institutional buyers generally choose from our PROSCOPE series (660, 662, 665, and 670 series) which provide excellent performance at market sensitive pricing. Because stethoscope selection is really a matter of personal choice, we recommend that you try a few models to determine the one that works best for you.

A pacemaker will not cause interference. Defibrillators may cause some interference, but only at those times that the defibrillator is actively firing.

AFD stands for Adjustable Frequency Diaphragm technology. Stethoscope models with AFD technology feature a single sided chestpiece that allows adjustment of the frequency by altering pressure to the chestpiece.  Light pressure accentuates lower frequencies, while firm pressure accentuates higher frequencies, simulating the diaphragm and bell sides of a two sided chestpiece.

This will depend on the age of your Adscope® stethoscope. If your Adscope® was manufactured prior to 2014 and has threaded aural tubes, you will need to affix a special adapter to use the new Adsoft™ Plus fitted silicon eartips.
 
To begin, ensure that the old eartips are removed from each aural tube. You will need to apply a single drop of glue on the threads of the binaural and thread the earpiece adapter (supplied with your Adsoft™ Plus eartips) until it is hand tight. (We recommend Loctite®, Krazy® Glue, or a similar adhesive.) Once the adapter is in place, slide your new Adsoft™ Plus eartip over the adapter until it locks into place. Repeat this process for your second binaural.
 
If your Adscope® stethoscope is already equipped with eartip adapters rather than threading on the binaural, then all you need to do is slide your new Adsoft™ Plus eartip over the adapter as described above, locking it into place.

Aneroid sphygs utilize mechanical gears and a mechanical linkage which can wear out or be knocked out of calibration. ADC aneroids are designed to provide a visual indication of accuracy. Our aneroid will require re-calibration if the indicator needle is outside the oval at the bottom of the dial. Unfortunately, when the needle is inside the oval, you can't be absolutely sure that the gauge is in calibration, unless it is a brand new unit from a reputable manufacturer (that's because gauges can be tampered with - some more easily than others). As such, it's a good idea to periodically test the gauge against a unit of known accuracy, or return the unit to ADC for complimentary testing. How often you should perform these accuracy tests depends on many factors, but in general, once a year should be sufficient.

Mercurial sphygs utilize gravity and contain no moving parts other than the mercury itself. As a result, there is nothing to wear out. A properly designed mercury manometer will be in calibration as long as the meniscus (top of the mercury column) rests within 3mmHg of the zero point with no pressure applied (inflation system should be detached since it might contain residual air). Mercury units do require some maintenance to remain in tip-top shape. Since mercury will evaporate, a small amount might need to be added to the instrument from time to time. Additionally, mercury will oxidize, leaving a residual gray deposit on the inside of the cartridge tube. This should be swabbed away using alcohol applied to a pipe cleaner. Once a year or so, the damping filters and diaphragm located in the top cap above the cartridge tube should be replaced. ADC provides self maintenance manuals with every mercury unit purchased. Of course, we will perform complimentary maintenance on any ADC mercurial manometer returned to our repair facility.

It depends on the manufacturer. In our case, it indicates that the gauge has been produced and tested to meet the U.S. Accuracy Standard of +/- 3 mmHg. This certification is our pledge and your guarantee for an accurate reading.

Latex sensitivity is a serious problem for both patients and healthcare workers. It is estimated that 7% of the general population and up to 17% of healthcare workers are latex sensitive, with reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to anaphylactic shock.

ALL ADC products are 100% LATEX-FREE.

In the past, there were just three components on a sphygmomanometer that were traditionally made from latex - the inflation bladder (contained inside the cuff), the inflation bulb and the coiled tubing (used on some models). All other components of a blood pressure instrument were always latex-free.

ADC listened to the emerging needs of the market and has produced a comprehensive line of latex-free sphygmomanometers and accessories, eliminating latex entirely from our sphygmomanometer line. The bladder, bulb and coiled tubing are made from PVC, TPE, TPU, and other synthetic materials that share the performance characteristics of latex without the risk to latex sensitive practitioners or patients. We produce over 200 different latex-free blood pressure instruments and replacement parts.

ADCUFF™ is the trademarked name for ADC's line of professional blood pressure cuffs, inflation bladders, and SPU (single patient use) cuffs. The ADCUFF™ was carefully designed to balance the requirements of ANSI/AAMI/ISO 81060 and AHA recommendations while combining the real-world needs of our customers.

• Bladders are designed to encircle a minimum of 80% of the maximum limb circumference for which they were intended in order to ensure proper compression of the brachial (or femoral) artery. Bladder width is no less than 40% of bladder length.
• Bladders are made from latex-free PVC. Each is marked with our part number and its size name to facilitate identification and re-order.  Our proprietary convertible bladder can be used with both single and double tube systems.

Reusable ADCUFF™s incorporate the following features, many of which are proprietary:

• Fabricated from 210 denier nylon in a large array of colors - durable but comfortable.
• Sewn with 11 threads per inch.
• Hook and loop adhesive designed to withstand a minimum of 30,000 open close cycles (many low priced imports use inferior adhesive that wears quickly).
• Artery mark on both inside and outside of cuff properly indicate bladder midpoint in accordance with ANSI recommendations (many cuffs on the market have a mis-positioned or misleading two arrow artery mark)
• Optional color coding by size
• Size icon system simplifies rapid visual identification of size.
• Gauge hang tab to facilitate use with pocket aneroid (some competitive cuffs are designed for use ONLY with mercurial instruments)
• Size Guide System™ marking system. Indicates applicable limb range and warns if larger or smaller cuff is needed.
• Bladder flap secures bladder within cuff and prevents bulging during inflation, or separation from cuff when used with mobile or wall mounted instruments
• "Property of" tag facilitates marking for better stock control.
• Three year UNCONDITIONAL warranty.

A few manufacturers produce so called "adjustable" gauges. These gauges permit the indicator needle to be re-set to the zero point using a conventional jeweler's screwdriver inserted into the air inlet at the base of the gauge. ANSI/AAMI/ISO 81060 prohibits the manufacture of any instrument with an adjustable dial, except by use of a specialized tool. We hardly think a jeweler's screwdriver available from virtually any hardware store qualifies as a "specialized" tool.

Whether or not they are legal, we feel adjustable gauges can be dangerous! Although re-setting of the indicator needle to zero will occasionally re-calibrate a gauge, it often will not. The only way to ensure proper calibration, once adjusted, is to bench test the instrument at a variety of points on the dial against a unit of known accuracy. There is a strong tendency to skip this CRITICAL step when gauges are adjusted in the field since it is time consuming and inconvenient (not to mention tough to find a unit of known accuracy in the field). Since ADC provides free recalibration for a minimum of 5 years to as long as a lifetime, (depending on model) we suggest you let us perform this complimentary service.

The AHA recommends a deflation rate of 2 - 3mmHg per second. During routine measurement, the system is typically inflated to about 180mmHg and deflated to about 60mmHg.  That’s a range of about 120mmHg (the actual range is determined by the patient's expected blood pressure). At a deflation rate of 2-3mmHg/sec, it should take 40 to 60 seconds to deflate the cuff correctly. Excessive deflation rates are one of the most common causes of measurement error - often distorting readings by 10mmHg to as much as 20mmHg. When the deflation rate is too quick, the observer's reaction time - much slower than the rapid deflation rate - may result in gross underestimation of blood pressure. On the other hand, because of a phenomenon known as mercury lag, excessive deflation COULD result in an overestimation of blood pressure when measured on a mercurial sphyg.

If new, the unit must be within 3mmHg when tested against a reference instrument in order to meet ANSI/AAMI/ISO 81060 standards. ADC's PROSPHYG series instruments will always meet or exceed these standards. ADC's DIAGNOSTIX series manometers exceed these standards by as much as 66%. ADC DIAGNOSTIX brand mercury manometers are guaranteed to be within 1mmHg over their full range, while the DIAGNOSTIX brand aneroid manometers are guaranteed within 2mmHg when NEW.

Although most low cost imports will meet the +/-3mmHg standards most of the time, the difference between ADC brand instruments and those low cost models is often how well they will hold up under real world use. ADC manometers are designed to withstand the rigors of YOUR job. Superior materials, old world craftsmanship, the pre-aging of our aneroid movements, and use of mercury cartridge tubes with 25% larger 5mm inside bores ensure that your instrument will provide dependable service day in and day out. Simply put, they will generally stay accurate for a longer period of time! Guaranteed.

The only way to be 100% sure is to connect the manometer in series to an instrument of known accuracy and test during deflation at a variety of pressures (i.e. 300, 260, 180, 120, 60, etc.) When testing your sphygmomanometer, it is important that you check the accuracy in accordance with national or international standards that may be applicable to your device. For devices manufactured and sold within the US, the European Union and other international destinations, the ANSI/AAMI/ISO 81060 standard entitled Non-invasive sphygmomanometers — Part 1: Requirements and test methods for non-automated measurement type is applicable. Click here to link to the section within our site that describes testing techniques in greater detail.

This condition will generally only occur on older latex style blood pressure devices. The phenomenon, known as frosting, is a chemical reaction caused by the exposure of latex to the ozone. Fluorescent lighting can exacerbate the problem. When properly cured during the manufacturing process latex should not frost. However, it can be difficult to determine optimal curing times which are dependent on ambient temperature, humidity, and the water content of the liquid latex. Although unsightly, frosting will not impact on the performance or durability of the latex components.  Our current line of latex-free blood pressure cuffs will not frost.

It is likely that the air valve on your cuff is jammed. There are two issues that may contribute to this problem; either the valve has become clogged with dust or debris, or an internal component called the ‘slit stopper’ has become bound from an extended lack of use. In order to correct this problem, first examine the air valve closely and check for dust or debris that may be clogging it and preventing air from passing through. You will need to remove the air valve from the bulb and valve assembly to conduct this examination. Be sure to clear out any obvious obstructions to the air flow. (Note: You may use tweezers or any pointed implement to remove such obstructions.)

If the air valve appears to be free of obstructions and you have not used your blood pressure cuff for some time, it is likely that the ‘slit stopper’ has become bound. In order to clear this problem, ensure that the air valve is properly attached to the bulb and valve assembly. (Note: It is recommended that your bulb and valve not be connected to the rest of your blood pressure device while correcting this problem.) Take the bulb and valve assembly in both hands and (with the valve CLOSED) quickly apply swift and rapid pressure to the bulb. This will force air into the valve at high pressure and cause the slit stopper to ‘pop’ open again. Once this type of jam has been cleared, it is unlikely that it will occur again unless your blood pressure device is left unused for an extended period of time.

Choose cuffs based on the range you require, not on the name. Naming may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the ranges are absolute. If, prior to August 2011, you used our Child and Infant cuffs, then you’ll now want to stock our Small Adult and Child cuffs. We also suggest you use the “industry standard” colors which will permit easier visual ID of the cuff size. Below is a conversion chart to help with your selection:

Yes, our 705PMK-??? It includes the infant, child and small adult cuffs accommodating limbs from 9-27cm.

There are a number of things that could be causing you to get higher values. It is possible the blood pressure of the person being measured, is, in fact, higher than believed. Blood pressure is a very dynamic vital sign and responds quickly to both physiological and psychological stimuli. Changes of 40mmHg or more on systolic values are quite common. Make sure the patient has rested for at least 2-3 minutes before taking their BP. Second, make sure you are using an appropriately sized cuff. If the cuff is too small for the patient, you could get elevated readings – in some cases significantly elevated readings. Third, make sure the manometer is accurate. If the needle rests outside the oval with the unit fully deflated, it is most definitely in need of calibration. However, even if the needle is inside the oval, it is possible for the unit to be out of calibration. Follow this link for the procedures on checking calibration. Finally, make sure you are following proper measurement technique. In manual measurement, technique is as important, if not more important than the instrument itself.

They are in some states. The link below provides a complete list of state and local restrictions:

Click here for Mercury Laws

Palm gauges are often subjected to some of the harshest treatment as they are designed to be transported and may be used outdoors or in rough environments. In order to increase the durability of these gauges, we have redesigned the connector with a larger barb and have altered the connector port on the palm gauge to accommodate this new connector. The larger connector ensures a firm connection, reduces the likelihood of the gauge being damaged if it is dropped or subjected to shock/vibration, and is a unique shape that is not cross-compatible with other medical equipment. The newer connector is NOT compatible with older palm series gauges.
All palm style gauges manufactured and shipped after November 2015 will have the updated, more robust connector. We have updated the part numbers for these connectors as well as the markings on the gauge itself to allow for easy identification. For the part numbers for both the older and newer style connectors and gauges contact our Customer Service department at 1-800-ADC-2670.
 
 
 

ADC digital sphygs have a pressure sensor self test that is activated each time you power on the instrument. If the microprocessor detects anything wrong with either the pressure sensor or the chip that analyzes the readings, an error message will be displayed BEFORE measurement. If the unit beeps and displays 0, you can be confident in the instrument's accuracy.

Depending on the model you have purchased, your home BP monitor will allow you to store a set number of readings. For our single-user models including the 6021 series, once you have reached the maximum number of readings that can be stored on your monitor, a ‘FULL’ message will display onscreen to indicate that the monitor’s memory is full. When this happens, taking additional readings will begin to overwrite older readings stored in memory. Refer to the instructions provided with your monitor for information on how you may clear your monitor’s memory or delete readings to free up space for new readings to eliminate this message.

Yes. In general you should take your blood pressure on your left arm. If you are unable to take your blood pressure on your left arm, you may take it on your right arm instead but you should be aware that there may be differences between your right and left arms. In some patients the differences can be as much as 10 mmHg or more. It is not recommended that you compare readings between both arms if you have taken multiple readings on both, as the results may vary due to the differences between the two arms.

The answer to both is a qualified yes! ADC blades and handles conform to ISO 7376 and ASTM F965. ADC blades and handles will be compatible with any manufacturer's brand that conforms to these standards. However, standard illumination components are not compatible with fiber optic components and visa-versa.

No, but they are able to be sterilized.

Tuning forks are used to conduct hearing and neurological vibratory tests. The C128 and C256 forks are generally used for the neurological tests, while hearing tests are often conducted using the higher frequency forks.

The model for each tuning fork represents the vibrational frequency measured in cycles per second (cps) or Hertz. For example, the C128 vibrates at 128 Hertz or 128 cycles per second.

Tuning forks of various frequencies can be used to test for pallesthesia as well as hearing disorders through the Weber and Rinne tests. This type of testing generally involves selecting a specific frequency of tuning fork (dependent upon the type of test being conducted) and activating it over bone or near the ear canal.
 
ADC offers tuning forks in an assortment of frequencies to provide you with all of the tools you might need to conduct these types of tests.

The Weber test is generally conducted using a tuning fork with a frequency of 256 Hz. Our model number 500256 will provide the appropriate frequency for this type of test. Activate the tuning fork (as described further in this FAQ) and place the base of the tuning fork over thin skin that is in contact with bone, equidistant from both ears to perform the test.
 
The Rinne test requires a tuning fork with a frequency of 256 Hz, and our model number 500256 is recommended for this type of test. As with the Weber test, the tuning fork is activated and in the case of the Rinne test the handle is placed behind each ear and then held next to the ear to allow the patient to determine how the sounds were transmitted during the test.
 
For more information on the proper selection of tuning forks for these tests, refer to this white paper: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK231/
 

Touching and holding the tines of the tuning fork while it is activated will cancel out the vibrations in the tines and silence your tuning fork.