First Mate Last Break: Electrical Safety and Reliability for Medical Devices
Medical device manufacturers must maintain the highest safety standards while ensuring ease of use. Although medical devices are usually enclosed and have easily accessible switches, buttons, and displays, the infrastructure can pose safety risks. Connectors and their connection points are particularly vulnerable, especially when dealing with electricity. It’s important to exercise caution to protect both users and patients, as well as the delicate technology within the device. The IEC 60601-1 standard for medical electrical equipment provides a clear framework for this. Special “First Mate Last Break” connectors meet the requirements of this standard, offering a combination of electrical safety, mechanical reliability, and user-friendliness.
