Planar debuts point-of-care workstations

Planar Systems Inc. this week released Invitium, a new series of mobile point-of-care (POC) workstations for bedside clinician documentation and order entry.

According to Planar, hospital IT departments will be able to choose a Windows XPe thin-client or a Windows XP-based workstation version of Invitium, depending on their network environment. Planar's Invitium Tn4 Mobile POC System supports thin- client, Citrix-based computing. Planar's Invitium Tk7 Mobile POC System is designed for users who need a Windows XP workstation in a traditional client/server network.

Both models are equipped with a low-cost battery and a maneuverable cart with a wheel base of 18-inches x 18-inches. The batteries work for up to eight hours between charges and communicate to users via an on-screen battery gauge that displays the remaining battery life. The battery cells cost less than $50 to replace, Planar said.

The systems are available with an optional touch screen and provide connectivity for a variety of applications that caregivers may need at the patient's bedside, with support for barcode scanners, biometric devices, ID card readers and patient-monitoring devices. Both versions of Invitium have 10/100-base-T Ethernet connectivity, as well as wireless 802.11 a, b and g support.

Invitium mobile systems are certified for use in healthcare facilities under U.S. and European safety standards. Additional safety features include rounded edges and protection from liquids and fluids entering the unit. The systems have fanless cooling to eliminate noise and reduce the flow of airborne contaminants.

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