OPERATOR’S MANUAL

NELLCOR  N-200
Pulse Oximeter

To contact Nellcor’s representative: In the United States, call 1-800-NELLCOR or

510 463-4000; outside of the United States, call Nellcor’s local representative.

Caution: Federal law (U.S.) restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a
physician.

 2003 Nellcor Incorporated. All rights reserved. 066515-0203

Tyco Healthcare Group LP Authorized Representative
Nellcor Puritan Bennett Division Tyco Healthcare UK LTD
4280 Hacienda Drive 154 Fareham Road
Pleasanton, CA 94588 USA Gosport, PO13 OAS, U.K.
Toll Free: 1.800.NELLCOR

To obtain information about a warranty, if any, for this product, contact

Nellcor Technical Services or your local Nellcor representative.

NELLCOR, DURASENSOR, DURA-Y, OXIBAND, OXICLIQ, OXISENSOR,

OXISENSOR II, OXINET, C-LOCK, and the Nellcor knob configuration are
trademarks of Nellcor Incorporated.

ThinkJet is a trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company.

Covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patents and foreign equivalents:
4,621,643; 4,653,498; 4,700,708; 4,770,179; 4,869,254; 4,911,167; 4,928,692; 4,934,372;
5,078,136.
CONTENTS
Figures
Tables

Safety Information .................................................................. 1

Warnings............................................................................ 1
General ........................................................................ 2
Alarms.......................................................................... 2
Electrical ...................................................................... 2
Sensors ....................................................................... 2
Measurements ............................................................. 3
Symbols ................................................................................... 5
Quick Guide to Operation ...................................................... 7
Basic Operation ................................................................. 7
Alarm Functions ................................................................. 7
Check Alarm Limits...................................................... 7
Adjust Alarm Limits ...................................................... 7
Adjust Alarm Volume ................................................... 8
Silence Alarm Temporarily........................................... 8
Adjust Alarm Silence Period ........................................ 8
Pulse Tone Volume............................................................ 8
Features ................................................................................... 9
Overview ............................................................................ 9
Automatic Self-Test and Startup .................................. 9
Oximeter Configurable Settings ................................... 10
Principles of Operation .......................................................... 11
Operating Principles........................................................... 11
C-LOCK ECG Synchronization.................................... 11
Automatic Calibration................................................... 12
Functional versus Fractional Saturation....................... 12
Measured versus Calculated Saturation...................... 13
Setup ........................................................................................ 15
Unpacking and Inspection.................................................. 15
Testing ............................................................................... 15
Components ...................................................................... 16
Display ......................................................................... 16
Controls ....................................................................... 16
Front Panel .................................................................. 16
Interface/Powerbase Rear Panel ................................. 18

iii
Contents

Rear-Panel Switches ................................................... 20

C-13-200 and C-20-200 Patient Modules .................... 20
C-13-200M Patient Module ......................................... 21
NELLCOR Sensors ................................................................. 23
Selecting a NELLCOR Sensor ........................................... 23
Cleaning and Reuse .......................................................... 24
Performance Considerations ............................................. 25
Guide to Operation ................................................................. 27
Basic Operation ................................................................. 27
Pulse Oximetry Subsystem Features................................. 28
Pulse Tone .................................................................. 28
Alarm Functions ........................................................... 29
Oximetry Operating Modes .......................................... 33
C-LOCK ECG Synchronization.................................... 34
Trend and Event Memories ......................................... 38
User-Defined Events.................................................... 43
Limit Events ................................................................. 44
Communications Formats ............................................ 49
Interface/Powerbase .................................................... 58
Battery Operation......................................................... 59
Connecting to Other Instruments ......................................... 61
Overview ............................................................................ 61
RS-232 Communication Protocol ...................................... 61
Serial Data Connector Pin Assignments ..................... 61
Communications Formats ............................................ 63
Setting Baud Rate........................................................ 65
Connecting the N-7000 Interface ....................................... 65
Connecting to the N-7500 Network.................................... 66
Connecting the N-9000 Recorder/Interface ....................... 66
Connecting Other Strip-Chart Recorders........................... 67
Connecting the Thinkjet Printer.......................................... 68
Connecting the P-200 Printer ............................................ 69
Maintenance ............................................................................ 71
Service ............................................................................... 71
Cleaning ............................................................................. 71
Battery Testing................................................................... 71
Determining Software Version ........................................... 72
Technical Assistance ......................................................... 72
Returning the N-200........................................................... 73

iv
 Contents

Troubleshooting ..................................................................... 75
Status Messages ............................................................... 75
Troubleshooting Guide....................................................... 77
General System Problems ........................................... 78
General Oximetry Subsystem Problems ..................... 79
Trend Memory Problems ............................................. 84
Specifications ......................................................................... 85
Performance ...................................................................... 85
ECG ................................................................................... 86
Environmental Conditions .................................................. 87
Electrical Characteristics.................................................... 88
Physical Characteristics..................................................... 89

FIGURES

1 Oxyhemoglobin Dissociation Curve ................................... 13

2 N-200 Front Panel ............................................................. 16
3 Interface/Powerbase Rear Panel ....................................... 18
4 C-13-200 and C-20-200 Patient Modules .......................... 20
5 C-13-200M Patient Module ................................................ 21
6 Standard Limb Lead Selection ........................................... 36
7 Sample ThinkJet Trend Graph ........................................... 41
8 Sample ThinkJet Event Graph ........................................... 46

TABLES

1 Rear-Panel Dip Switch ....................................................... 20

2 Selected NELLCOR Sensors............................................. 24
3 Default Alarm Settings ....................................................... 31
4 SERIAL COMM Connector Pin Assignments .................... 62
5 Output Format Switch Settings .......................................... 63
6 Baud Rate Switch Settings ................................................ 65

v
SAFETY INFORMATION
Warnings

WARNINGS

General

DANGER! Explosion hazard. Do not use in the presence

of flammable anesthetics.

The N-200 is to be operated by qualified personnel only.

Before use, carefully read this manual, accessory
directions for use, all precautionary information, and
specifications. The user must check that the equipment
functions safely and see that it is in proper working
condition before being used.

The N-200 is intended only as an adjunct in patient

assessment. It must be used in conjunction with clinical
signs and symptoms.

Do not use NELLCOR pulse oximeters during magnetic

resonance image (MRI) scanning. Adverse reactions
include: potential burns to patients as a result of contact
with attachments heated by the MRI RF pulse; potential
degradation of the MR image; and, potential reduced
accuracy of oximeter measurements. Always remove
oximetry devices and attachments from the MR imaging
environment before scanning a patient.

For preamplification requirements, only an N-200

patient module should be used with the N-200 pulse
oximeter. Do not use any other patient module (for
example, the N-100 patient module).

1
Safety Information

Alarms

Do not silence the audible alarm or decrease its volume

if patient safety could be compromised.

Check the audible alarm silence duration before

temporarily silencing the audible alarm.

Each time the monitor is used, check alarm limits to

ensure they are appropriate for the patient being
monitored.

Electrical

Electric shock hazard. Cover to be removed only by

qualified service personnel. There are no user-
serviceable parts inside.

Note: Do not connect to an electrical outlet controlled

by a wall switch because power to the monitor
could be inadvertently turned off.

Sensors

Before use, carefully read the sensor Directions for Use.

Use only NELLCORoxygen transducers (sensors). Use of

other oxygen transducers may cause improper oximeter
performance.

Tissue damage can be caused by incorrect application

or use of a sensor (for example, wrapping the sensor too
tightly or applying supplemental tape). Inspect the
sensor site routinely to ensure skin integrity and
correct positioning and adhesion of the sensor. If skin
integrity changes, move the sensor to another site.

Inspect the sensor and cable for fraying, cracking,

breakage, or other damage. If defects are noted, do not
use the sensor. Do not immerse sensor completely in
water, solvents, or cleaning solutions (because the
connector is not waterproof). Do not sterilize by
irradiation, steam, or ethylene oxide.

2
 Safety Information

Measurements

Loss of pulse signal can occur for the following reasons:

¥ The sensor is too tight.

¥ There is excessive illumination, such as from

sunlight or a surgical or bilirubin lamp.

¥ The sensor is placed on an extremity with a blood

pressure cuff, arterial catheter, or intravascular line.

¥ The patient is in shock, has hypotension, severe

vasoconstriction or anemia, hypothermia, arterial
occlusion proximal to the sensor, or cardiac arrest.

Inaccurate measurements may be caused by:

¥ Incorrect application or use of a sensor.

¥ Significant levels of dysfunctional hemoglobins, such

as carboxyhemoglobin or methemoglobin.

¥ Significant levels of indocyanine green, methylene

blue, or other intravascular dyes.

¥ Exposure to excessive illumination, such as surgical

lamps (especially ones with a xenon light source),
bilirubin lamps, fluorescent lights, infrared heating
lamps, or direct sunlight. Exposure to excessive
illumination can be corrected by covering the sensor
with a dark or opaque material.

¥ Excessive patient movement.

¥ Venous pulsations.

¥ High-frequency electrosurgical interference and

defibrillators.

¥ Placement of the sensor on an extremity that has a

blood pressure cuff, arterial catheter, or
intravascular line.

3
SYMBOLS

Attention: Refer to Manual

Fuse Replacement Symbol

Caution: Shock Hazard

5
QUICK GUIDE TO OPERATION
Basic Operation
Alarm Functions
Pulse Tone Volume

BASIC OPERATION

1. Select the appropriate NELLCOR sensor and apply it to

the patient, following sensor directions for use. Connect the
sensor to the patient module.

2. Plug the N-200 into a properly grounded AC outlet using a

hospital-grade power cord. Alternatively, operate the N-200
on its internal battery. Turn on the system: switch the
ON/STDBY switch to the ON position.

3. For C-LOCK ® ECG synchronization, connect an

appropriate ECG signal source to the N-200.

4. Check alarm limits. If necessary, adjust them to suit the

patient’s needs.

ALARM FUNCTIONS

Check Alarm Limits

Press the appropriate alarm button (HIGH SAT, LOW SAT,

HIGH RATE, or LOW RATE). When the button is pressed, the
selected limit will show in the display.

Adjust Alarm Limits

Press the appropriate alarm button (HIGH SAT, LOW SAT,

HIGH RATE, or LOW RATE), and turn the control knob until
the desired setting appears.

7
Quick Guide to Operation

Adjust Alarm Volume

Simultaneously, press the LOW SAT and HIGH SAT buttons.

Turn the control knob until the desired setting appears in
OXYGEN SATURATION display. Pushing the LOW SAT and
HIGH SAT buttons activates the audible alarm to indicate
volume.

Silence Alarm Temporarily

Press the AUDIO ALARM OFF button. The ALARM OFF

indicator lights steadily during the alarm-off period. Do not
silence the alarm if patient safety could be compromised.

Adjust Alarm Silence Period

Press and hold AUDIO ALARM OFF button and turn the
control knob until the desired setting (30–120 seconds) appears
in the OXYGEN SATURATION display.

PULSE TONE VOLUME

Turn the control knob to adjust the pulse tone volume.

8
FEATURES
Overview

OVERVIEW

The NELLCOR N-200 pulse oximeter measures functional

oxygen saturation of arterial hemoglobin (SpO2), and pulse
rate. The system consists of three components: the N-200 pulse
oximeter, an interface/powerbase, and a patient module. The
N-200 monitors SpO 2 and pulse rate continuously and
noninvasively, with measurements updated at each pulse beat.

The interface/powerbase is a detachable AC power supply and

external interface for the N-200. It provides isolated power for
operating the monitor and charging its internal batteries. In
addition, the interface/powerbase provides analog and digital
outputs for external data recording devices and an input for
C-LOCK ECG synchronization. A fiber optic output can be used
to connect the N-200 to a NELLCOR N-7500 pulse oximetry
network. The patient module (models C-13-200, C-20-200, or
C-13-200M) provides a connector for the oximetry sensor and
provides initial oximetry signal processing; models C-13-200
and C-20-200 also provide an ECG input connector.

Automatic Self-Test and Startup

The N-200 provides immediate use after startup, without need

for operator calibration or configuration. It offers:

• Automatic self-test and error messages

• Automatic oximetry calibration

• Visible oximetry display

• An early warning system that provides an audible

indicator for both SpO2 and pulse rate: a tone sounds on
each pulse, and its pitch varies with changes in SpO2

• Operator-configured visible and audible oximetry alarms,

with default alarm limits preset for adults or neonates

9
Features

Oximeter Configurable Settings

The N-200 provides the operator with the capability to tailor

the system for specific clinical applications. Capabilities
include:

• Audible alarms that can be silenced; the alarm has

adjustable volume.

• C-LOCK ECG synchronization that enhances oximetry

signal processing during patient movement or for patients
with low perfusion.

• Three oximetry operating modes that change measurement

averaging time to suit varied clinical applications.

• Oximetry trend memory, with up to 12-hour SpO2 and

pulse rate trend data storage.

• Oximetry and pulse rate event memory, with 1-hour event

data storage. Data storage of event memory markers
includes: alarm-limit-defined events and user-defined
events.

• Analog and digital output of saturation, pulse rate, and

pulse waveform data. When an ECG signal is provided to
the patient module three-lead ECG connector, the N-200
provides an analog output of the ECG waveform.

WARNING: Do not use the ECG analog output as a

trigger for synchronous defibrillation.

10
PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
Operating Principles

OPERATING PRINCIPLES

Pulse oximetry is based on two principles: that oxyhemoglobin

and deoxyhemoglobin differ in their absorption of red and
infrared light (that is, spectrophotometry), and that the volume
of arterial blood in tissue (and hence, light absorption by that
blood) changes during the pulse (that is, plethysmography). A
pulse oximeter determines SpO2 by passing red and infrared
light into an arteriolar bed and measuring changes in light
absorption during the pulsatile cycle. Red and infrared low-
power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the oximetry sensor
serve as light sources; a photodiode serves as the
photodetector.

Because oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin differ in light

absorption, the amount of red and infrared light absorbed by
blood is related to hemoglobin oxygen saturation. To identify
the oxygen saturation of arterial hemoglobin, the monitor uses
the pulsatile nature of arterial flow. During systole, a new
pulse of arterial blood enters the vascular bed, and blood
volume and light absorption increase. During diastole, blood
volume and light absorption reach their lowest point. The
monitor bases its SpO2 measurements on the difference
between maximum and minimum absorption (that is,
measurements at systole and diastole). By doing so, it focuses
on light absorption by pulsatile arterial blood, eliminating the
effects of nonpulsatile absorbers such as tissue, bone, and
venous blood.

C-LOCK ECG Synchronization

C-LOCK ECG synchronization: read through motion to provide

valid readings for many types of motion. During C-LOCK
signal processing, the monitor requires two signals that reflect
cardiac activity: the electrical pulse from the ECG and the
optical pulse from the oximetry sensor.

11
Principles of Operation

The delay between the electrical ECG pulse and the optical
pulse at the sensor site is relatively stable for a given patient
and sensor site. C-LOCKprocessing takes advantage of this
temporal relationship, using the QRS complex as a reference
point for identifying the oximetry pulse and for timing SpO2
measurements. This enhances “good” pulses and minimizes the
effect of random artifacts associated with motion and low
perfusion.

Automatic Calibration

Because light absorption by hemoglobin is wavelength

dependent and because the mean wavelength of LEDs varies,
an oximeter must know the mean wavelength of the sensor’s
red LED to accurately measure SpO2. During manufacturing,
the mean wavelength of the red LED is encoded in a resistor in
the sensor. During monitoring, the instrument’s software reads
this resistor and selects coefficients that are appropriate for the
wavelength of that sensor’s red LED; these coefficients are then
used to determine SpO2. This resistor is read when the monitor
is turned on, periodically thereafter, and each time a new
sensor is connected.

Additionally, to compensate for differences in tissue thickness,

the intensity of the sensor’s LEDs are adjusted automatically.

Functional versus Fractional Saturation

This monitor measures functional saturation—oxygenated

hemoglobin expressed as a percentage of the hemoglobin that
can transport oxygen. It does not detect significant amounts of
dysfunctional hemoglobin, such as carboxyhemoglobin or
methemoglobin. In contrast, laboratory hemoximeters report
fractional saturation—oxygenated hemoglobin expressed as a
percentage of all measured hemoglobin, including measured
dysfunctional hemoglobins. To compare functional saturation
measurements to those from an instrument that measures
fractional saturation, fractional measurements must be
converted as follows:

fractional saturation
functional saturation = x100
100 - (% carboxyhemoglobin + % methemoglobin)

12
 Principles of Operation

Measured versus Calculated Saturation

When saturation is calculated from a blood gas partial pressure

of oxygen (PO2), the calculated value may differ from the SpO2
measurement of a pulse oximeter. This usually occurs because
the calculated saturation was not appropriately corrected for
the effects of variables that shift the relationship between PO 2
and saturation (Figure 1): pH, temperature, the partial
pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO 2), 2,3-DPG, and fetal
hemoglobin.

100 pH
Temperature
PCO2
2,3-DPG
Fetal Hb
Saturation (%)

pH
50 Temperature
PCO2
2,3-DPG

0
50 100
PO2 (mmHg)

Figure 1: Oxyhemoglobin Dissociation Curve

13
SETUP
Unpacking and Inspection
Testing
Components

UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

Notify the carrier immediately if the N-200 shipping carton is

damaged. Carefully unpack the instrument and its accessories.
Confirm that the following items are included:

1 N-200 pulse oximeter

1 interface/powerbase

1 hospital-grade power cord

1 patient module

1 operator’s manual

1 guide to operations

Inspect each component. If any component is missing or

damaged, contact Nellcor’s Customer Service Department or
your local Nellcor representative.

TESTING

Verify all functions as described in the Guide to Operation

section. If a difficulty occurs, refer to the Troubleshooting
section. If that does not resolve the difficulty, contact qualified
service personnel or your local Nellcor representative.

15
Setup

COMPONENTS

Display

Two three-digit red alphanumeric displays for oxygen

saturation and pulse rate. Sixteen-segment bar graph for pulse
amplitude indicator. Indicators for LOW BATT, PULSE
SEARCH, HIGH SAT, LOW SAT, HIGH RATE, and LOW
RATE alarms, ECG LOST, and AUDIO ALARM OFF.
Annunciators for BATT IN USE and ECG IN USE.

Controls

Control knob to adjust volume and set alarm limits, and five
buttons to select alarm limits and disable audio alarm.

Rear-panel switches for adult/neonatal alarm settings, analog

voltage output range (0–1 V or 0–10 V), analog saturation
output scale (0–100% or 50–100%), RS-232 format, baud rate;
rear-panel buttons for printing trend and event data, analog
full scale output, and analog zero output.

Front Panel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

HIGH
SAT
BATT
STD IN LOW
ON BATT
BY USE LOW
SAT
PULSE
SEARCH HIGH
EC
NN TI
SpO2 PERCENT RATE
ON
CO

ECG LOW
REFER
ECG IN RATE
LOST
EL

TO USE
MANUAL AUDIO
TE

C
E

ALARM
IS O L A BEATS PER MINUTE OFF

15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8

Figure 2: N-200 Front Panel

16
 Setup

1. ON/STDBY switch.

2. BATT IN USE indicator.

3. LOW BATT indicator: Flashes when five or fewer

minutes of battery power remain.

4. PULSE SEARCH indicator: Flashes when the N-200 is

attempting to locate the patient’s pulse.

5. OXYGEN SATURATION display.

6. Control knob: Changes instrument settings or limits.

7. HIGH SAT, LOW SAT, HIGH RATE, LOW RATE

indicators: Flash during an alarm state.

8. HIGH SAT, LOW SAT, HIGH RATE, LOW RATE

buttons: Display alarm limits.

9. AUDIO ALARM OFF button: Temporarily silences

audible alarms.

10. AUDIO ALARM OFF indicator: Lights steadily when

the audio alarm has been temporarily silenced; flashes
when the audio alarm has been disabled.

11. PULSE RATE display.

12. Pulse amplitude indicator: Vertical column of light bars

that qualitatively indicates pulse amplitude.

13. ECG IN USE indicator: Flashes when the N-200 locates

an ECG signal; lights steadily when the N-200 locks onto
the signal.

14. ECG LOST indicator.

15. Patient module connection socket.

17
Setup

Interface/Powerbase Rear Panel

16 17 18 19 20 21

NELLCOR INCORPORATED ZERO FULL TREND EVENT

INTERFACE/POWERBASE
SERIAL NO. S a O2 %
USE .5A SCALE VOLT
ELETRICAL RATING PULSE SAT RATE ECG
SLOW BLOW
100-120 Vac
WARNING
.3A 50/60 Hz
FUSE ONLY
0-
100

50- 1 2
0-1

ADULT/
22
REPLACE FUSE AS MARKED 100 0-10 IN/OUT 1 NEONATAL
DATA SERIAL COMM 2 ALARM

3
RS232
4
FORMAT
5
6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
7 BAUD
REFER TO MANUAL 8 RATE
MADE IN USA NELLCOR INC, PLEASANTON, CA 94588

33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

25 24 23

Figure 3: Interface/Powerbase Rear Panel

16. ZERO button: Provides a zero-volt signal on PULSE,

SAT, and RATE analog outputs.

17. FULL button: Provides a full-scale signal on PULSE,

SAT, and RATE analog outputs. (The voltage depends on
VOLT switch setting).

18. SpO 2% SCALE switch: Sets the analog output scale for
oxygen saturation at 0–100% or 50%–100%.

19. VOLT switch: Sets the voltage output range for the
analog outputs.

20. TREND button: Initiates a trend memory output sequence.

21. EVENT button: Initiates an event memory output

sequence.

22. ECG IN/OUT connector: Provides an analog ECG output

signal or can be used for an input from an external ECG
monitor.

18
 Setup

23. Baud Rate switches: Set the baud rate for serial
communications.

24. RS-232 Format switches: Set the RS-232 format.

25. Adult/Neonatal Alarm switch: Sets the default alarm

limits for adults or neonates.

26. RATE connector: Provides analog voltage output of pulse

rate in beats per minute, with a range of 0–250 bpm.

27. SERIAL COMM connector: Provides RS-232 digital

interface via a 9-pin “D” connector.

28. SAT connector: Provides analog output of oxygen

saturation data.

29. DATA connector: Provides a digital signal via fiber-optic

output.

30. PULSE connector: Provides analog output of pulse

waveform.

31. AC power inlet.

32. Fuse compartment.

33. Fuse label.

19
Setup

Rear-Panel Switches

The rear panel includes eight switches for digital output and
adult/neonatal alarm limits.

Table 1: Rear-Panel Dip Switch

Switch Section Function

1 Adult/neonatal alarm settings

2, 3, 4, 5 RS-232 format
6 Not used
7, 8 Baud rate select

C-13-200 and C-20-200 Patient Modules

Caution: Use only an N-200 patient module. Using an

N-100 patient module may adversely affect oximeter
performance.

34

36 35

Figure 4: C-13-200 and C-20-200 Patient Modules

34. Self-adhering strap

35. Sensor connector: For NELLCOR sensors.

36. ECG connector: For a Nellcor-approved ECG cable.

20
 Setup

C-13-200M Patient Module

37

Figure 5: C-13-200M Patient Module

37. Sensor lock and connector: For NELLCOR sensors;

includes lock to hold sensor in place.

21
NELLCOR SENSORS
Selecting a NELLCOR Sensor
Cleaning and Reuse
Performance Considerations

WARNING: Use only NELLCORoxygen transducers

(sensors). Other oxygen transducers may cause
improper oximeter performance.

WARNING: Before use, carefully read the sensor

directions for use.

SELECTING A NELLCOR SENSOR

When selecting a sensor, consider the patient’s weight and

activity, the adequacy of perfusion, the available sensor sites,
the need for sterility, and the anticipated duration of
monitoring. For more information, refer to Table 2 or your local
Nellcor representative.

23
NELLCOR Sensors

Table 2: Selected NELLCOR Sensors

Patient
Oxygen Transducer Model Weight

OXISENSOR ¨ II or OXISENSOR ¨ N-25 <3 kg, >40 kg

(sterile, single use) I-20 3 to 20 kg
D-20 10 to 50 kg
D-25(L) >30 kg
R-15 >50 kg
OXICLIQ ¨ (sterile, single use) A >30 kg
P 10 to 50 kg
DURA-Y ¨ (nonsterile, reusable) D-YS >1 kg
OXIBAND ¨ (nonsterile, reusable) OXI-A/N <3 kg, >40 kg
OXI-P/I 3 to 40 kg
DURASENSOR ¨ (nonsterile, DS-100A >40 kg
reusable)
NELLCOR reflectance sensor RS-10 >40 kg
(nonsterile, limited reuse)

CLEANING AND REUSE

Caution: Do not sterilize any NELLCORsensor or

adhesive by irradiation, steam, or ethylene oxide, and
do not immerse in water or cleaning solutions.

Clean the surface of reusable sensors by wiping with an agent

such as 70% isopropyl alcohol. When using adhesive sensors,
use a new adhesive sensor, wrap, or bandage for each patient.

24
 NELLCOR Sensors

PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Always select an appropriate sensor, apply it as directed, and

observe all warnings and cautions.

If ambient light affects performance, ensure that the sensor is

properly applied, and cover the sensor site with opaque
material. Failure to do so may result in inaccurate
measurements. Light sources that can affect performance
include surgical lights (especially those with a xenon light
source), bilirubin lamps, fluorescent lights, infrared heating
lamps, and direct sunlight.

If patient movement presents a problem, verify that the sensor

is properly and securely applied; move the sensor to a less
active site; use an adhesive sensor that tolerates some patient
motion; or use a new sensor with fresh adhesive backing.

If the patient is unavoidably active, consider using C-LOCK

ECG synchronization. If this is not possible, consider using
Mode 3 (refer to “Oximetry Operating Modes” in the Guide to
Operation section).

If poor perfusion affects performance, consider using an

OXISENSOR R-15 adult nasal sensor or a NELLCORRS-10
reflectance sensor. The R-15 obtains measurements from an
artery supplied by the internal carotid, the nasal septal
anterior ethmoid artery; therefore, the R-15 may obtain
measurements during low peripheral perfusion. The RS-10
obtains measurements from the forehead or temple, areas that
may be spared when peripheral perfusion is poor.

25
GUIDE TO OPERATION
Basic Operation
Pulse Oximetry Subsystem Features

BASIC OPERATION

1. Place the interface/powerbase on a flat, stable surface.

Align the N-200 with the interface/powerbase. Push the
N-200 straight in until its latches engage.

Note: The manual applies to all N-200 monitors and

powerbases having software versions 2.7.3 or
higher (see “Determining Software Version” in the
Maintenance section).

2. Plug in the power cord to the N-200 power inlet and to an

outlet supplying the appropriate mains voltage. Use only
an outlet that has a grounding connection and the original
hospital-grade plug and cord or an equivalent hospital-
grade plug and cord. If in doubt about the integrity of the
grounding of the mains supply connection, the unit must be
operated from its internal battery.

The N-200 can operate on battery power. Typically, a new

fully charged battery will provide 90 minutes of operation.
Age and usage will affect battery performance. The
interface/powerbase operates only on AC power.

3. Align the red dot on the patient module connector with the
red dot on the patient module connection socket. Push the
connector straight in until it locks; do not twist. Use only
NELLCOR C-13-200, C-20-200, or C-13-200M patient
modules.

4. If using C-LOCKECG synchronization, provide an

appropriate ECG signal. See “C-LOCK ECG
Synchronization” later in this section for instructions.

5. Apply an appropriate NELLCOR sensor in accordance with

its Directions for Use. Plug the sensor into the patient
module. With a C-13-200M patient module, close the sensor
lock over the plug.

27
Guide to Operation

6. Turn on the N-200 using the ON/STDBY switch. After a

few seconds, following successful completion of the self-
test, measurements are displayed.

A beep signals each pulse beat, and its pitch increases and
decreases to reflect changes in SpO2. If the oximetry pulse
signal is lost and pulse is measured only from the ECG, the
pulse tone changes from a beep to a warble.

7. Check the alarm limits each time the N-200 is used by

sequentially pressing the HIGH SAT, LOW SAT, HIGH
RATE, and LOW RATE buttons.

8. Adjust the alarm limits if necessary. Press and hold the

appropriate alarm button, and turn the control knob until
the desired value is displayed. SpO2 alarm limits may be
set from 20% to 100%. Pulse rate alarm limits may be set
from 20 to 250 beats per minute. The upper limit must be
higher than the lower limit.

Note: When the N-200 is turned off and back on, all
operator-adjustable features return to their
default state.

PULSE OXIMETRY SUBSYSTEM FEATURES

The pulse oximetry subsystem of the N-200 measures and

displays SpO 2 and pulse rate, and provides data for alarms and
for the trend memory.

Pulse Tone

When a NELLCOR sensor is connected to the N-200 and a

patient, the pulse beat is signaled by a beep that varies in pitch
to reflect changes in oxygen saturation, rising as saturation
increases and falling as it decreases.

When the N-200 is receiving only an ECG-derived signal (no

sensor-derived optical signal), each detected R-wave is signaled
by a high-pitched tone that has a slight warble. This tone is
distinct from any beep heard when a sensor-derived signal is
present. The pitch of the warbling tone that accompanies an
ECG-derived signal is not related to oxygen saturation.

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 Guide to Operation

The pitch of the warbling tone is also significantly higher than

any beep that reflects oxygen saturation.

Changing Pulse Tone Volume

Turn the control knob to adjust pulse tone volume. When the
N-200 is turned off and back on again, the pulse tone returns to
its default volume.

Alarm Functions

WARNING: When the AUDIO ALARM OFF button has

been pressed and the AUDIO ALARM OFF indicator is
illuminated, no audio alarm sounds in the event of an
adverse patient condition. The AUDIO ALARM OFF
button must not be used in situations in which patient
safety could be compromised.

Audio and visual alarms can be set for high and low oxygen
saturation, high and low pulse rate, loss of pulse, and visual
alarm for loss of ECG. Audio alarms are interrupted briefly for
detected pulses and the volume is adjustable. Audio alarms can
be disabled for a 60-second period by pressing the AUDIO
ALARM OFF button; the disable period is adjustable between
30–120 seconds, or disabled indefinitely by setting the alarm
silence period to OFF. The alarm silence indicator blinks
continuously when the audible alarm has been disabled.

Alarm States
If the oxygen saturation level or pulse rate moves beyond the
alarm limits, the corresponding alarm indicator flashes, the
appropriate display flashes, and an audio alarm sounds (unless
or until it has been silenced).

If the alarms activate because the pulse signal is lost, the

OXYGEN SATURATION and PULSE RATE displays flash 0,
the PULSE SEARCH indicator flashes, and an audio alarm
sounds (unless or until it has been silenced). If C-LOCK ECG
synchronization is in use and an ECG signal can still be
detected, PULSE RATE continues to be displayed.

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Guide to Operation

If alarms activate because the sensor or patient module is

disconnected, the displays become blank, the PULSE SEARCH
indicator flashes, and an audio alarm sounds (unless or until it
has been silenced). If C-LOCK is in use, only the OXYGEN
SATURATION display becomes blank.

If the alarm activates because the ECG signal is lost, the ECG
LOST indicator flashes. This is accompanied by a single low
pitch beep to alert the user.

The audio alarm function can be altered in several ways: it can

be silenced temporarily, it can be disabled, and its volume can
be adjusted. The visible alarm cannot be turned off.

Checking Alarm Limits

Check the alarm limits each time the N-200 is used, by
sequentially pressing the HIGH SAT, LOW SAT, HIGH RATE,
and LOW RATE buttons. The unit displays each limit in turn.

Adjusting Alarm Limits

To adjust the alarm limits to meet a specific patient’s needs,
press and hold the appropriate button (HIGH SAT, LOW SAT,
HIGH RATE, or LOW RATE), and turn the control knob until
the display shows the desired value. Oxygen saturation alarm
limits may be set for any value from 20% to 100%, and the
pulse rate alarm limits may be set for any value from 20 to
250beats per minute. The upper limit must be higher than the
lower limit.

Note: When the operator turns the N-200 off and back on
again, alarm limits return to default values.

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 Guide to Operation

Default Alarm Limits

Default alarm limits are in effect when the N-200 is turned on.
There are two sets of default alarm limits, one for adults and
one for neonates as shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Default Alarm Settings

Adult Neonatal Adjustable

Alarm Limit Setting Setting Range

High oxygen saturation 100% 95% 20–100

Low oxygen saturation 85% 80% 20–100
High pulse rate 140 bpm 200 bpm 20–250
Low pulse rate 55 bpm 100 bpm 20–250

Note: When the operator turns the N-200 off and back on
again, alarm limits return to default values.

To determine whether the default alarm limits are set for an

adult or a neonate, press the HIGH SAT button immediately
after turning on the N-200. If the instrument is set for an
adult, 100 appears in the OXYGEN SATURATION display; if
it is set for a neonate, 95 appears.

Changing From Adult to Neonatal Alarm Limits

To change the adult/neonatal setting, move the adult/neonatal
alarm switch UP to change the setting to adult default limits,
DOWN for neonatal default limits. Turn the N-200 off and back
on to reset default settings (refer to Table 1).

Note: When changing settings, the N-200 must be operating

on AC power for the change to be implemented.

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Guide to Operation

Adjusting Audio Alarm Volume

WARNING: Do not set the alarm volume too low to be

heard.

WARNING: When the AUDIO ALARM OFF button has

been pressed and the AUDIO ALARM OFF indicator is
illuminated, no audio alarm sounds in the event of an
adverse patient condition. The AUDIO ALARM OFF
button must not be used in situations in which patient
safety could be compromised.

To adjust audio alarm volume, press and hold both the HIGH
SAT and LOW SAT buttons, and turn the control knob
clockwise to increase the volume or counterclockwise to
decrease it.

Silencing the Audio Alarm Temporarily

WARNING: If the operator silences the audio alarm

during a pulse search alarm, then the audio alarm will
not resume at the end of the alarm silence period, even
if the pulse search event is continuing. If the alarm has
been silenced, the operator should continue to visually
check whether a pulse is being displayed.

To silence the audio alarm for 60 seconds, press the AUDIO

ALARM OFF button once. The AUDIO ALARM OFF indicator
lights steadily to show that the audio alarm has been silenced
temporarily. After 60 seconds, the alarm sounds again if the
alarm state continues.

Adjusting the Temporary Silence Period

To change the period during which the audio alarm is silenced
temporarily, press and hold the AUDIO ALARM OFF button,
and turn the control knob until the desired period appears in
the OXYGEN SATURATION display. Release the button. This
period can be set for any value between 30 and 120 seconds.

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 Guide to Operation

Disabling the Audio Alarm

WARNING: In normal operation, the AUDIO ALARM

OFF button temporarily silences the alarm. Although
the audible alarm can be disabled as described, do NOT
disable it if patient safety could be compromised.

To disable the audio alarm, press and hold the AUDIO ALARM
OFF button, and turn the control knob clockwise until OFF
appears on the OXYGEN SATURATION display. The AUDIO
ALARM OFF indicator light flashes continuously while the
audio alarm is disabled. The audio alarm can be reactivated by
pressing the AUDIO ALARM OFF button again.

Note: When the operator turns the N-200 off and back on
again, the audio alarm is automatically reenabled and
the alarm silence period returns to the default of
60seconds.

Oximetry Operating Modes

The three operating modes of the N-200 enable it to make

accurate measurements despite differing levels of patient
activity. In all three modes, the N-200 updates its
measurements with every pulse beat. Data from the most
recent beat replaces data from the oldest beat, and new
averages are determined and displayed.

Mode 1, the default operating mode, uses a 5- to 7-second

averaging time and is useful in situations in which the patient
is relatively inactive. If the patient is unavoidably active, use
C-LOCK ECG synchronization. If this is not possible, use
Mode3.

Mode 2 uses a 2- to 3-second averaging time and therefore is

more affected by patient motion. It is useful for special
applications that require a fast response time, such as sleep
studies.

Mode 3 uses a 10- to 15-second averaging time and

consequently is least affected by patient motion. In this mode,
pulse rate is not displayed and there is no pulse tone.

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Guide to Operation

Changing Operating Mode

Press and hold the HIGH RATE and LOW RATE buttons. Turn
the control knob until the desired value appears in the PULSE
RATE display.

C-LOCK ECG Synchronization

WARNING: An ECG monitor output that is delayed by

more than 40 milliseconds from the actual QRS complex
may prevent the N-200 from calculating and displaying
saturation or may display inaccurate measurements. If
this condition is observed, disconnect the patch cord
and use the N-200 without C-LOCK ECG synchroniza-
tion, or substitute a different ECG monitor, or connect
the patient ECG leads directly to the connector on the
NELLCOR C-13-200 or C-20-200 patient module.

To provide reliable saturation measurements in a high-motion

environment or when a patient has poor perfusion, the N-200
can use an ECG (R-wave) signal to identify the pulse and
synchronize the saturation measurements.

Connecting the ECG Signal

The N-200 monitor can receive an ECG signal either directly
from the patient by a conventional three-lead ECG cable
connected to a patient module connection, or from a bedside
ECG monitor by the proper patch cord. For proper operation,
only a Nellcor-approved three-lead ECG cable from the
monitored patient should be connected to a C-13-200 or
C-20-200 patient module ECG connector. Do not connect any
other signal, such as the output from an ECG monitor, to this
connector.

Signal Requirements
For signals from a bedside ECG monitor, the peak of the ECG
signal must be between 0.5 and 15volts. The QRS complex
must be at least 10 milliseconds wide at 50% of peak
amplitude. To ensure optimal performance, the output signal
should be delayed by no more than 40milliseconds from the
actual QRS complex. For direct, patient-connected ECG
signals, the R-wave amplitude must be between 0.5 and
5.0millivolts.

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 Guide to Operation

Lost ECG Signal

If the ECG signal is lost or deteriorates to the extent that the
N-200 can no longer track it, the ECG LOST indicator flashes.
When the ECG signal is lost, oximetry measurements will
continue to be derived from the optical sensor signal. During
this time the N-200 continues to search for an ECG signal, and,
when it finds an adequate signal, C-LOCK ECG
synchronization again becomes active. To cancel the ECG
LOST indication, press the AUDIO ALARM OFF button.

When using C-LOCK ECG synchronization, either an

electrosurgical unit or significant upper-body muscular activity
may disrupt the ECG signal and cause the N-200 to begin
using the optical signal alone for obtaining measurements.
When an adequate ECG signal is again available, C-LOCK
ECG synchronization resumes functioning automatically.

Direct, Low-Level ECG Input

To use direct ECG input, position three conventional electrodes
in the standard limb lead configuration as illustrated in
Figure6.

When applying the electrodes, follow all appropriate

instructions and observe institutional standards. Direct ECG
capabilities conform to AAMI standards. For optimal
performance, position the RA (right arm) and LA (left arm)
electrodes below the lateral aspect of each clavicle. Position the
LL (left leg) electrode at the left costophrenic margin in the
mid-axillary line. Attach the lead wires to the electrodes, and
connect the lead wire pins to the ECG cable, observing correct
limb connections.

Finally, plug the ECG cable into the patient module’s direct
ECG connection socket. This is a standard three-lead ECG
connector; a Nellcor-approved three-lead ECG cable should be
used.

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Guide to Operation

RA I LA

II III

LL

Figure 6: Standard Limb Lead Selection

High-Level ECG Input

To use the signal from a bedside ECG monitor, connect either
the defibrillator sync pulse output or the analog ECG waveform
output (high-level output) from the external ECG monitor to
the interface/powerbase ECG IN/OUT connector. Use only a
Nellcor-supplied or Nellcor-approved ECG patch cord and
connect the patch cord as described in its Directions for Use. It
is important to select the appropriate patch cord for each ECG
monitor. If questions arise, contact qualified service personnel
or your local Nellcor representative.

Refer to the operator’s manual for the ECG monitor before

attempting any connection. When using the signal from an
ECG monitor, the signal must be connected to the
interface/powerbase and it must be operating on AC power.

Testing ECG Patch Cord

WARNING: Before use, confirm that the ECG patch cord

connector is compatible with the ECG monitor, and test
the patch cord as described in the patch cord Directions
for Use. If the patch cord is fabricated at the userÕs
institution, also perform a continuity test before clinical
use.

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 Guide to Operation

For each ECG monitor to be used with the N-200, test

instrument and patch cord function on someone as follows.

1. Position conventional disposable ECG electrodes in the

configuration that will be used clinically. (The ECG output
signal must have the characteristics previously described.)
Use the ECG patch cord to connect the appropriate output
of the ECG monitor (ECG out or defibrillator sync) to the
interface/powerbase ECG IN/OUT connector. Turn on both
instruments.

Verify that a normal tracing is displayed on the ECG

monitor; that the pulse rate displayed by the N-200 is
accurate; and that the ECG IN USE indicator lights
steadily. Apply a NELLCOR sensor to that same person,
following the Directions for Use. Connect the sensor to the
NELLCOR patient module, and verify that a saturation
value is displayed by the N-200 and that the ECG IN USE
indicator lights steadily.

2. Test all instrument functions under both normal and alarm

conditions (for example, ECG leads off) to ensure
appropriate operation before clinical use (see the operator’s
and service manuals of the N-200 and the external ECG
monitor).

Should problems arise during any test procedure, first check all
connections. If that does not resolve the problem, contact
qualified service personnel or your local Nellcor representative.

Operation with an ECG Signal

The ECG IN USE indicator flashes when the N-200 locates an
ECG signal. When the N-200 locks on to an adequate signal,
the ECG IN USE indicator lights steadily. The ECG R-wave is
then being used to identify the pulse and synchronize
saturation measurements.

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Guide to Operation

Trend and Event Memories

Determining Whether Memories Are Enabled

To determine if trend or event memories are enabled, press
HIGH SAT, HIGH RATE, and AUDIO ALARM OFF buttons
simultaneously. If trend and event memories are disabled,
t E dis appears in OXYGEN SATURATION and PULSE
RATE displays. If trend and event memories are enabled,
t E on appears in the displays.

Setting the Clock

Before storing data in the memories initially, set the internal
clock as described below.

1. Press and hold the LOW SAT and HIGH RATE buttons
simultaneously. The flashing numbers in the OXYGEN
SATURATION display are the last two digits of the
existing year. While pressing and holding the buttons, turn
the control knob until the display shows the correct year.
Release the buttons and repeat this step for month, day,
hour, and minute.

Note: Day and minute settings appear in the PULSE

RATE display.

The N-200 sets the year, month, day, hour, and minute
sequentially. If more than 5 seconds elapse between any of
the steps listed above, the changes made so far are stored
and the N-200 starts the sequence again (beginning with
year).

2. Allow at least 5 seconds to elapse; check settings by

pressing the LOW SAT and HIGH RATE buttons
simultaneously, five times in succession.

Trends
Oxygen saturation and pulse rate measurements are sampled
every second and the average of the sampled values is
computed every 5seconds. That average is then stored in the
trend memory. Up to 12hours of this data can be stored. Both
trend and event data can be printed in graphic form with either
high or low resolution, or output to an external device capable
of printing ASCII characters or processing and formatting data.

38
 Guide to Operation

See the Connecting to Other Instruments section for further

information on available formats.

Printing Trend Data: Data in the trend memory may be

printed graphically on a Hewlett-Packard ThinkJet printer
with an RS-232 serial interface (model 2225D), or on an analog
strip-chart recorder, or by using a NELLCOR N-50 powerbase/
display module. Trend data may also be output in ASCII form
to a printer or computer. To print the contents of trend
memory, the N-200 must be connected to AC power. The
instrument continues to function as a monitor while the trend
data is being printed. The data is retained in memory after
printing, unless they are erased as described at the end of this
section.

Using a ThinkJet Printer: Set up the printer and connect it

to the N-200 rear-panel SERIAL COMM connector according to
the instructions in the Connecting to Other Instruments
section. To print trend data in graphic form, set the N-200
RS-232 format switches to graphics mode I or II as described in
the same section. In graphics mode I (high resolution) or
graphics mode II (low resolution), select either by setting the
RS-232 format switches appropriately. Low resolution produces
a graph that contains one data point for every 50 seconds of
saturation and pulse rate data; high resolution produces a
graph that contains one data point for every 5seconds of
saturation and pulse rate data. Press the TREND button on
the back of the N-200 to begin printing.

When trend data is printed on a ThinkJet printer, up to

12hours of data is printed on one page, with the earliest data
in the top left portion of the page. When low resolution is used,
each point on the printout represents 50 seconds. When high
resolution is selected, the graph will necessarily be more than
one page as each dot represents 5 seconds.

The oxygen saturation scale is automatically selected, based on

the range of the data: the maximum value is always 100%; the
minimum value is 50%, 25%, or 0%. The pulse rate scale is 0 to
250 beats per minute (a narrower range is automatically
selected if the data is suited to it.) Time (date, hour, minute) is
presented along the horizontal axis.

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Guide to Operation

The following automatic markers appear on ThinkJet trend

graphs:

Occurrence Marker

Alarm-limit event L
User-defined event E
Power turned off P
Pulse signal is lost S
Clock is reset C
Signal is acquired A

Whenever an A marker appears, the trend graph ends and a

new one begins. If less than 5 minutes elapse, no A marker is
printed; instead, the period during which the power was off or
the signal was lost is represented on the trend graph by
missing data points.

Data is plotted using a fixed time scale on the horizontal axis.

The time and date of data acquisition are printed below that
axis.

Each event is marked by a tick on the horizontal axis.

Identifiers for the events appear in up to four additional lines
of text that are printed below the time and date lines. Each
identifier consists of a letter that indicates the type of event
and its onset time (for example, L3:47 indicates an alarm-limit
event that began at 3:47 a.m.). As many identifiers as possible
are packed into these four lines of text, with each identifier
approximately aligned with its tick mark on the axis.

If events are very frequent and too closely spaced so that all
four lines of text are filled, some identifiers do not print;
however, all events are still identified by tick marks. If more
than 60 events occurred during the period of time covered by
the trend memory, only the last 60 will be identified by type of
event and time of occurrence. The remaining events are
identified only by tick marks on the horizontal axis.
Additionally, there is a limit of 60 minutes of data that can be
stored in event memory, regardless of the number of events.

40
 Guide to Operation

Figure 7 illustrates the trend output from a ThinkJet printer.

Figure 7: Sample ThinkJet Trend Graph

Note: The graph shows an alarm-limit event at 2:53 a.m. on

3/25 (L2:53) and the signal lost at 5:58 a.m. on 3/25
(S5:58)

Using an Analog Strip-Chart Recorder: Connect the strip-

chart recorder to the N-200, as described in the Connecting to
Other Instruments section. Calibrate the recorder, adjust the
settings as necessary, and confirm proper operation. If the
N-200 is also connected to a graphics printer, that printer must
be turned off. Otherwise, the trend memory will be printed by
the graphics printer rather than the strip-chart recorder. Do
not attempt to print trend data on a NELLCOR N-9000
recorder/interface.

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Guide to Operation

• To print the trend memory, press the TREND button. Data

is printed at the rate of approximately 1 hour of data per
minute. If prior to printing the trend memory, the strip-
chart recorder was printing real-time data, the beginning
and end of the trend data are identified by zero-voltage
outputs.

• The trend output can be stopped at any time by again

pressing the TREND button. To restart it, push the
TREND button again—if less than 30 seconds have
elapsed, the output continues from the point at which it
was stopped; if more than 30 seconds have elapsed, the
output starts again at the beginning.

The following automatic markers appear on the trend graphs

printed by an analog strip-chart recorder:

Occurrence Marker

Beginning of trend output A 1-second, zero-voltage

output followed by two full-
scale deflections

End of trend output A 2-second, zero-voltage

output

Time when signal is acquired A full-scale to current-value

deflection

Time when pulse signal is A full-scale to current-value

lost deflection

Time when N-200 is turned A full-scale to current-value

off deflection

Event-limit or user-defined A full-scale to zero-voltage

event deflection

Note: The monitor can only store 60 events; if more than 60

occur, only the last 60 will be retained.

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 Guide to Operation

Events
The event memory stores a snapshot of concurrent oxygen
saturation, pulse rate, and pulse amplitude measurements.
During the snapshot, measurements are obtained once every
second, resulting in a data display that has higher resolution
than the trend memory. Up to 1 hour of event data may be
stored. Both trend and event data can be printed in graphic
form with either high or low resolution, or output to an
external device capable of printing ASCII characters or
processing and formatting data. See the Connecting to Other
Instruments section for further information on available
formats.

There are two kinds of events: limit events that occur each time
the saturation or pulse rate moves beyond the established
limits, and user-defined events that the operator initiates.

For a limit event, the snapshot starts 30 seconds before the

beginning of the alarm state and ends 30 seconds after the end
of the alarm state. If a limit event lasts longer than
60minutes, only the first 60 minutes of data are recorded. For
a user-defined event, the snapshot starts 30 seconds before the
event is initiated and lasts from 1 to 60 minutes (the operator
selects the duration).

User-Defined Events

Initiating a Fixed Duration User-Defined Event

A user-defined event allows the operator to select times during
which event data is acquired. Starting 30 seconds before the
event is initiated, 1 to 60 minutes of data is stored.

To initiate a user-defined event, press and hold the HIGH

RATE and AUDIO ALARM OFF buttons (UdE 0 appears).
Turn the control knob until the 0 is replaced by the desired
event duration (1 to 60 minutes). Then release the buttons. The
data that is stored in the event memory begins 30 seconds
before the buttons are released.

To change the duration of an ongoing user-defined event, press

and hold the HIGH RATE and AUDIO ALARM OFF buttons.
UdE n appears, with n representing the number of minutes
that remain in the ongoing event.

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Guide to Operation

Turn the control knob until the desired number of minutes

appears. Then release the buttons.

To end a user-defined event prematurely, press and hold the

HIGH RATE and AUDIO ALARM OFF buttons, and turn the
control knob to the left until UdE OFF appears. Then release
the buttons.

Limit Events

Setting the Limits that Trigger an Event-Limit

Normally, the established alarm limits determine when a limit
event occurs (that is, data is stored in the event memory
whenever the saturation or pulse rate falls outside the alarm
limits).

To set event limits that differ from the alarm limits, the N-200
must be operating on AC power. Press and hold the applicable
alarm button (HIGH SAT, LOW SAT, HIGH RATE, or LOW
RATE) and the rear-panel EVENT button; while continuing to
press and hold the buttons, turn the control knob until the
desired setting appears in the display. The saturation event
limits may be set for any value from 20% to 100%, and the
pulse rate event limits may be set for any value from 20 to
250beats per minute.

To make an event limit equal to the alarm limit again, while

the N-200 is operating on AC power, press and hold the
applicable alarm button and the EVENT button, and at the
same time, turn the control knob to the right until = AL
appears in the display.

When the N-200 is turned off and back on again, the event
limits are reset to the alarm-limit values.

Printing Event Data: Data in the event memory may be

printed graphically on a ThinkJet printer with an RS-232
serial interface (model 2225D) or a strip-chart recorder, as
described in this section. To print the contents of the event
memory, the N-200 must be operating on AC power. The N-200
continues to function as a monitor while the event data is being
printed. The data is retained in memory after printing, unless
they are erased as described at the end of this section.

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 Guide to Operation

Using a ThinkJet Printer: Connect the ThinkJet printer to

the N-200, as described in the Connecting to Other Instruments
section. To print event data in graphic form, set the RS-232
format switches to graphics mode I or II as described in the
same section. To print events in graphic form, press the
EVENT button on the back of the N-200. The events are
printed when the button is released.

When event data is output on a ThinkJet printer, the earliest

data is in the top left of the page. The graph begins 30 seconds
before the beginning of each event, and an automatic marker
identifies the type of event (alarm limit [L] or user-defined [E]).
Each marker consists of a tick mark on the horizontal axis,
along with a letter that indicates the type of event and the time
of onset (for example, E15:10 identifies a user-defined event that
began at 3:10 p.m.). New scales are printed for each event. The
oxygen saturation scale is automatically selected, based on the
range of the data: the maximum value is 100% (the minimum
value is 50%, 25%, or 0%). The pulse rate scale is based on the
range of the measurements.

45
Guide to Operation

Figure 8 illustrates event output on a ThinkJet printer.

Figure 8: Sample ThinkJet Event Graph

Note: A user-defined event started at 4:37 p.m. on 3/22

(E16:37) and an alarm-limit event started at 2:20p.m.
on 3/24 (L14:20).

To Determine the Number of Events in Memory: press

and hold the LOW SAT and LOW RATE buttons. If no events
are stored in event memory, no E is displayed; if 60 or fewer
events are stored in event memory, nn E is displayed. If more
than 60 events occur, only the last 60 are available.

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 Guide to Operation

To Print a Specific Event: press the LOW SAT and LOW

RATE buttons, and turn the control knob until the identifier
for the desired event appears in the display. Then release the
buttons and within 10 seconds press the EVENT button. The
event is then printed. (Also, pressing the EVENT button for at
least 3 seconds and then turning the control knob until the
identifier for the desired event appears causes that event to be
printed.)

The identifiers for events are the same as those printed on the
ThinkJet output: a letter that indicates the type of event, and
the hour and minute at which the event started.

Using an Analog Strip-Chart Recorder: Connect the strip-

chart recorder to the N-200, as described in the Connecting to
Other Instruments section. Calibrate the recorder, adjust the
settings as necessary, and confirm proper operation. If the
N-200 is also connected to a graphics printer, that printer must
be turned off. Otherwise, the event data will be printed by the
graphics printer rather than the strip-chart recorder.

To Print the Event Memory: press the EVENT button on the

back of the N-200. Approximately 10 minutes of data is printed
each minute. Events are separated by a zero-voltage output on
each channel. The earliest event and earliest data are
presented first. The following automatic markers appear on the
event graphs printed by an analog strip-chart recorder:

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Guide to Operation

Occurrence Marker

Beginning of the event output A 1-second, zero-voltage

(which is 30 seconds before output followed by one full-
the beginning of the event) scale deflection and another
1-second, zero-voltage output

Beginning of the event Two full-scale to zero-voltage

deflections

Time when the signal is A 2-second, zero-voltage

acquired output

Time when the pulse signal A full-scale to current-value

islost deflection

Time when the N-200 is A full-scale to current-value

turned off deflection

The event output can be stopped at any time by again pressing

the EVENT button. To restart the output, push the EVENT
button again—if fewer than 30 seconds have elapsed, the
output continues from the point at which it was stopped; if
more than 30 seconds have elapsed, the output starts again at
the beginning. While the event output is stopped, there is a
zero-voltage output signal.

Do not attempt to print event data on a NELLCOR N-9000

recorder/interface.

Sending Trend and Event Data to ASCII Devices: Trend

and event data collected by the N-200 is available to ASCII
devices through the SERIAL COMM connector. See Connecting
to Other Instruments section for more information on trend and
event data and RS-232 formats.

To Stop an Ongoing Output of Trend or Event Memories:

press and hold both TREND and EVENT buttons (End Prt
appears); while continuing to press and hold the buttons, turn
the control knob clockwise until Prt End flashes. Release the
buttons; Prt End lights steadily and the output is canceled.

48
 Guide to Operation

To avoid canceling the output after starting to do so, before

releasing the buttons, turn the control knob to the left until
Prt appears.

To Erase the Stored Trend and Event Data: press and hold
the HIGH SAT and HIGH RATE buttons (CLr t E appears in
the display); at the same time, turn the control knob to the
right until ALL clr appears in the display. Then release the
buttons. The contents of both memories will be erased.

To preserve the data after starting to erase the memories,

while still pressing and holding the buttons, turn the control
knob to the left until not clr appears. Then release the
buttons.

To Disable Trend and Event Memories: simultaneously

press the HIGH SAT, HIGH RATE, and AUDIO ALARM OFF
buttons and turn the control knob until a flashing t E diS
appears. If the memories are disabled, reactivate them by
pressing and holding the buttons and turning the control knob
until a flashing t E On appears.

When the memories are disabled, the operator can still trigger
a user-defined event, as previously described.

When the N-200 is turned off and back on again, the memories
are made active again.

Communications Formats

Of the nine RS-232 formats used with the N-200, six produce
ASCII trend and event data output (Full, Conditional Full,
Computer, Alternate Computer, Conversation, and Beat-to-
Beat). Conversation format is recommended for accessing trend
and event data.

WARNING: In Full, Computer, or Beat-to-Beat Formats,

real-time data output is inhibited while the trend and
event data are being transferred to the ASCII device.
The current monitored data for this period is not
available.

49
Guide to Operation

Full and Conditional Full Formats

These formats are designed for ASCII printer or CRT display
output. There are two format variations chosen by switch
section 2 (see Table 1).

• If switch section 2 is in the DOWN position (Full format),

the once-a-minute RATE/SAT/PULSE line is displayed
regardless of alarm conditions.

• If switch section 2 is in the UP position (Conditional Full

format), MONITOR STATUS, ALARM ACTIVE, and
LIMITS are displayed immediately upon any change in
monitor status, limit settings, or alarms.

Note: Once monitor status has been displayed because

of a change in limits or because of an alarm, the
RATE/SAT/PULSE line returns to once-a-minute
output.

In Full format the following lines appear once a minute:

HH:MM:SS: MONITOR: RATE = nnn %O2 SAT= nnn PULSE

AMPL. %FS = nnn

or

HH:MM:SS: MONITOR: NO PULSE DATA

HH:MM:SS is the time set on the N-200’s internal clock and

%FS is the pulse amplitude expressed as a percentage of full
scale.

In Conditional Full format, if alarm status, monitor status, or

limits change, one of the preceding lines appears again with
the following message, preceded by an asterisk to identify
which variable has changed:

50
 Guide to Operation

MONITOR STATUS: NORMAL or SEARCH

SENSOR OFF
AUDIO ALARM OFF
and
ECG IN USE or ECG NOT IN USE

Note: If the message ECG UNKNOWN appears instead of

ECG IN USE or ECG NOT IN USE, this indicates
mismatched software versions in the powerbase and
monitor. To determine the powerbase and N-200
software version, refer to the Maintenance section.

ALARMS ACTIVE: NONE or LOW SATURATION,

HIGH SATURATION, LOW RATE,
HIGH RATE

LIMITS: LOW RATE = nnn HIGH RATE = nnn

LOW SAT = nnn HIGH SAT = nnn

If the N-200 is turned off or the interface/powerbase is

detached from the monitor, the following sequence is
transmitted immediately and again once each minute:

HH:MM:SS: COMMUNICATIONS WITH MONITOR LOST

Computer and Alternate Computer Format

Two computer-compatible digital-output formats are available.
Format is selected on the rear-panel DIP switch (see Table 1).

1. Select Computer Format by setting switch section 3 down,

4 up, 5 down.

2. Set switch section 2 up when the N-200 is transmitting

data to a Spacelabs 90600-series ECG monitor (Alternate
Computer Format). Otherwise, set switch section 2 down
(Computer Format).

51
Guide to Operation

3. Switch section 2 up (Alternate Computer Format and to

some Spacelabs monitors). Once every 10 seconds, and
when the status or limits change, the following data is
transmitted:

<STX>RnnnSnnnPnnnLnnnHnnnOnnnAnnnMnnnTnnnnnn
Qnnn<CR><LF><ETX><CHKSM><ETX>

Note: STX (start of transmission) and ETX (end of

transmission) are shown in hexadecimal equivalents
above their positions in the string. CHKSM stands for
checksum.

4. Switch section 2 down (normal computer format).

<STX>RnnnSnnnPnnnLnnnHnnnOnnnAnnnMnnnTnnnnnn
Qnnn<CR><LF><CHKSM><ETX>

R= Pulse Rate
S= Saturation %
P= Pulse Amplitude (current sample)
L= Low Rate Alarm Limit
H= High Rate Alarm Limit
O= Low Saturation Alarm Limit
A= Alarm Status in ASCII-coded decimal: logic 1 = alarm
condition
Bit 0 = High Rate
Bit 1 = Low Rate
Bit 2 = Low Sat
Bit 3 = High Sat

For example, ASCII 005 = binary 0101 = low sat and high rate
alarms.

M = Monitor Status in ASCII-coded decimal.

Bit 0 = Pulse Search Status 1 = Locked 0 = Search

Bit 1 = Sensor Status 1 = Attached 0 = Off
Bit 2 = Audio Alarm Status 1 = Enabled 0 = Disabled
Bit 3 = ECG Status 1 = Not in Use 0 = In Use
Bit 7 = Monitor 1 = Lost 0 = Intact
Communication

52
 Guide to Operation

For example, if the monitor status byte is ASCII 015, (binary

00001111), this means that the monitor is locked on pulse,
sensor attached, audio alarms enabled, and ECG not in use.

T = Time hhmmss
Q = High Saturation Alarm Limit
n = ASCII character, normally a number

<CRLF> = Carriage Return and Line Feed

<CHKSM> = 1 Byte Binary Checksum (uncoded)

Conversation Format
In this mode, the output is a single parameter, sent by request
only. For example, the computer requests the current pulse
rate by sending an R. The interface responds with
STX/Rnnn/CR/LF where (nnn is the pulse rate). Other request
codes are listed in the preceding section.

Conversation Format is available for all monitor parameters.

N-9000 Recorder Format

This mode is used to communicate with a NELLCOR N-9000
recorder/interface.

Beat-to-Beat Format
This mode transmits saturation and pulse rate data once per
beat in the following format:

STXRnnnSnnnCRLF

Trend and Event Command Format: The following

information describes the data that will be sent to and received
from the N-200. The monitor responds to these commands in
any of the six ASCII modes. Common parameters in these
expressions are:

Text Marker Hexadecimal Meaning of Marker

< STX > 02H Start of transmission (text)

< ETX > 03H End of transmission (text)
< CRLF > 0DH, 0AH Carriage return and line feed

N-200 data packets are described later in this section.

53
Guide to Operation

The host device can send one of three commands:

Command: SEND TREND

Device Sends: W< CRLF >

N-200 Responds: < STX > W < CRLF > < ETX > — Sent once
when command received.

Z, W, [Y] *

A Z packet, followed by a number of W and Y packets. The

number of W packets is given by the first parameter Zn . . . n in
the Z packet plus one. The very last (Zn . . . n +1) W packet
sent is a guard packet (used for spacing graphics output). The
data in this last W-packet is invalid—discard them. Hence, Zn .
. . n gives the number of valid W packets or data points. If
events have occurred during the trend period, then Y packets
will appear spaced among the W packets at the time that the
events occurred. The Y packets are not included in the Zn . . . n
count.

< STX > E < CRLF > < ETX > — End of data,
normal completion

Command: SEND EVENTS

Device Sends: X < CRLF >

N-200 Responds: < STX > X < CRLF > < ETX > — Sent once
when command received.

Z, X, [Y] *

*Note: Square brackets indicate optional items.

54
 Guide to Operation

One or more Z packets, each followed by a number of X and Y

packets. Each Z packet marks the beginning of an event period.
The number of X packets that follows each Z packet is given by
the first parameter Zn . . . n in the Z packet plus one. The very
last (Zn . . . n +1) packet sent is a guard packet (used for
spacing graphics output). The data in this last packet is invalid
and should be discarded.

Hence, Zn . . . n gives the number of valid X packets of data

points for each event period.

Thirty seconds (that is, 30 X packets) precede the first Y packet

marking the first event. There may be more events following,
each represented by a Y packet spaced among the X packets at
the time that the events occurred.

< STX > E < CRLF > < ETX > — End of data,
normal completion

Command: STOP SENDING

Device Sends: V < CRLF >

N-200 Responds: < STX > V128< CRLF > < ETX > — Sent once
when command received.

Note: The Y data packets may occur at any time during the
trend or event dump. The positions of the Y packets
indicate when the associated event occurred.

The host device must wait for a minimum of 30 seconds after

sending the V (stop sending) command before sending another
command.

55
Guide to Operation

Data Packet Descriptions: The following data packets may

be received in trend or event data transmission. For V, W, X,
and Z packets, the first field (n . . n) has variable length.

E Packet < STX > E < CRLF > < ETX >

This is the last record sent to indicate end of data in normal

completion.

V Packet < STX > Vnnn < CRLF > < ETX >

This is sent only if the N-200 stops before the requested data
transmission is complete. It indicates why the N-200 stopped.

nnn Reason for Stop

4 Timeout error
8 Data error
16 Timed out error
32 Communications lost
64 Data recall error
128 By operator request

W Packet < STX > Wn . . . nSnnnRnnn < CRLF >

< ETX >

These are the actual trend data points. Data is sampled every
second, so each packet represents 5 seconds of saturation and
pulse rate data.

Wn . . . n Trend data point (n . . . n =

current index up to 4 digits)
Snnn Saturation
Rnnn Pulse rate

X Packet < STX > Xn . . . nSnnnRnnnPnnn < CRLF >

<ETX >

These are the actual event data sampled every second. There is
no averaging, so each packet represents 1 second of saturation,
pulse rate, and pulse amplitude data.

56
 Guide to Operation

Xn . . . n Event data point (n . . . n = current index up to

four digits)
Snnn Saturation
Rnnn Pulse rate
Pnnn Pulse amplitude

Y Packet < STX > YnDnnnnnnnn < CRLF > < ETX >

This is the time marker description indicating the type of

marker and the time it occurred.

Yn Event Type

0 User-defined event
1 Alarm limit exceeded
2 Patient signal lost
3 Unused
4 Time mark (on hour for trend, on min for event)
5 Power turned off
6 Patient signal acquired
7 Clock reset

Dnnnnnnnn = Time/Date (format mmhhDDMM)

Z Packet < STX > Zn . . . nSnnnsnnnRnnnrnnn

< CRLF > < ETX >

This defines the number of data packets, and the maximum

and minimum values in the following trend or event
information. This can be used for scaling purposes.

Zn . . . n Starting scale—n . . . n = (number of data

points, or number of data packets minus 1—
the last W or X packet is a throwaway)
Snnn MAX saturation
snnn MIN saturation
Rnnn MAX pulse rate
rnnn MIN pulse rate

57
Guide to Operation

No Real-Time Output Graphics Format

In this mode, there is no output of real-time saturation and
pulse rate data. Trend and event data can be transmitted to an
output device in low-resolution graphic format, if one is
connected. The sign-on message from the powerbase is printed
when AC power is first connected.

Graphics Modes I and II

In these modes, the sign-on message is suppressed and there is
no output of real-time saturation and pulse rate data. Trend
and event data is transmitted to an output device, if one is
connected. Data can be output in either high or low resolution.

Transmission of trend and event information can be initiated

either by an external command, or with the rear-panel TREND
and EVENT buttons. Similarly, transmission can be stopped
either by external command, or with the rear-panel buttons.

Upon receiving a command to output either trend or event

information, the N-200 checks the serial communications port
to see if an ASCII device is connected. If the DSR signal input
(pin 6 on the SERIAL COMM connector) is not true, no output
occurs. Hence any ASCII device connected to the N-200 must
drive the DSR pin 6 to a logic true to output trend and event
data to the serial communications port.

Interface/Powerbase

The interface/powerbase is the detachable AC power supply

and external interface for the N-200. It provides isolated power
for operating the monitor and for recharging the batteries.
Also, the powerbase contains the circuits required to
communicate with the monitor.

The powerbase provides analog outputs of pulse waveform,

oxygen saturation, and pulse rate data, ECG waveform, and a
digital output connector (RS-232 serial interface). In addition,
it also provides a fiber-optic output connector for use with the
NELLCOR N-7000 interface, the OXINET ® N-7500 pulse
oximetry network, or the N-9000 recorder/interface.

58
 Guide to Operation

Because the N-200 is patient isolated, the monitor and

powerbase communicate through a bidirectional optical link
that is established whenever the monitor and powerbase are
connected and AC power is supplied. Saturation, pulse rate,
pulse waveform, and monitor and alarm status data are
transmitted from the monitor to the powerbase where they are
translated into analog or digital outputs. ECG input as well as
status requests are transmitted from the powerbase to the
monitor.

Disconnecting the Powerbase from the Monitor

The monitor can be disconnected from the powerbase for
portable use. To do so, place the instrument on a flat, stable
surface and firmly push the latches on each side of the monitor,
which allows the units to be separated. The analog, digital, and
fiber-optic outputs, and ECG/defib sync inputs (from the
external monitor) are not available when the powerbase is
detached from the monitor or when AC power is not supplied.

To reconnect the units, place them on a flat, stable surface, and

position them so that the groove on the powerbase is aligned
with the rib on the monitor. Push the powerbase straight in
until the latches on the monitor engage.

Battery Operation

If AC power is lost or the interface/powerbase is disconnected,

the N-200 operates on its internal battery (typically 90 minutes
for a new, fully charged battery). When the battery level is too
low to power the instrument reliably, an internal switch turns
off the N-200 automatically.

The battery recharges whenever the instrument is plugged into

AC power. A minimum of 14 hours is required to fully recharge
the battery.

If C-LOCK ECG synchronization is used when the N-200 is

operating on battery power, the ECG signal must be supplied
directly from the patient through an ECG cable attached to the
C-13-200 or C-20-200 patient module. When using battery
power, a signal from a bedside ECG monitor cannot be used.

59
CONNECTING TO OTHER INSTRUMENTS
Overview
RS-232 Communication Protocol
Connecting the N-7000 Interface
Connecting the N-7500 Network
Connecting the N-9000 Recorder/Interface
Connecting Other Strip-Chart Recorders
Connecting the ThinkJet Printer
Connecting the P-200 Printer

OVERVIEW

WARNING: When connecting this monitor to any

instrument, verify proper operation before clinical use.
Refer to the other deviceÕs manual for full instructions.
Accessory equipment connected to the monitorÕs analog
or digital outputs must be certified according to the
respective standards, that is, IEC 950 for data-
processing equipment or IEC 601.1 for electromedical
equipment and must comply with the requirements for
medical systems, IEC 601.1.1. If in doubt, contact
NellcorÕs Technical Services Department or your local
Nellcor representative.

This section contains information to allow the user to provide

serial communications between the N-200 and external digital
devices.

RS-232 COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL

Serial Data Connector Pin Assignments

Table 4 lists pin assignments on the rear-panel SERIAL

COMM connector and the corresponding pin assignments for a
25-pin RS-232 connector.

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Connecting to Other Instruments

Table 4: SERIAL COMM Connector Pin Assignments

Output Output
Connector Signal Device Device
Pin Direction Pin Signal

1 not used none none none

2 Rx data ← 2 Tx data

3 Tx data → 3 Rx data

4 DTR → 6 DSR

5 Signal Ground ↔ 7 Signal Ground

6 DSR ← 4 RTS

7 RTS → 5 CTS

8 CTS ← 20 DTR

9 Alarm Out → 25 see warning

WARNING: Pin 9 only gives notice of alarm limit

violations. It will not alert a remote system of signal loss
or sensor disconnection. Do not use this Pin to activate
a remote alarm system.

Note: The logic level output of Pin 9 is not intended to

activate a remote alarm system. Its use is intended to
allow remote sensing of alarm limit events only.

Pin 9 output is less than +0.3 V when no alarm limit is violated

and greater than +4.0 V when an alarm limit violation exists.
This pin should be connected to a high-impedance circuit
(greater than 1 megohm) and protected against transient
voltages.

Pin 6 (DSR) must be held high by the connected device if trend

and event data are to be output in ASCII format to that device.

Pin 8 (CTS) may be used to control transmission data. When

held high (positive voltage), data transmission takes place.
When low (negative voltage), data transmission is suspended
temporarily.

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 Connecting to Other Instruments

Communications Formats

The RS-232 format switches are used to set the communication

port format, as shown in Table 5. The serial communication
format of the N-200 is eight data bits, no parity bit, and one
stop bit.

Table 5: Output Format Switch Settings

Format Switch Sections

Name Description 2 3 4 5

Conversation Request for * Down Up Up

parameter

Full Full readable Down Down Down Up

strings for CRT or
printer

Conditional Full readable Up Down Down Up

Full strings for CRT or
printer only in
alarm condition or
when status
changes

Computer Single identifier Down Down Up Down

character plus
values (normal
format)

Alternate ** Variation of Up Down Up Down

Computer computer format
(above) for
Spacelabs 90600
series ECG
monitors

Beat-to-Beat Outputs rate and * Up Down Up

saturation once per
beat

* Up or down
** This feature is only available for monitor and powerbase software
versions 2.5.0 and higher.

63
Connecting to Other Instruments

Table 5: Output Format Switch Settings (continued)

Format Switch Sections

Name Description 2 3 4 5

N-9000 Used with * Down Down Down

Recorder and NELLCOR
N-7000 N-9000 and
Interface N-7000 recorder/
interface units

Graphics Suppresses sign- * Up Up Down

Mode I on message and
real-time data
output; trend is
output in low
resolution graphic
form if a printer
is connected.
Event data is
automatically
printed in high
resolution form.

Graphics *** Same as Graphics * Up Up Up

ModeII Mode I, but trend
data is output
only in high
resolution graphic
form if a printer
is connected.

No Real-Time Suppresses real- * Up Down Down

Output time data output;
Graphics low resolution
Mode trend and event
data is output in
graphic form if a
printer is
connected.

* Up or down
*** This feature is only available for monitor and powerbase software
versions 2.7.3 and higher.

64
 Connecting to Other Instruments

Setting Baud Rate

Identify the baud rate required by the device that is to be

connected, and set the N-200 baud rate using the rear-panel
baud rate switches (switch sections 7 and 8). Refer to Table 6.

Table 6: Baud Rate Switch Settings

Baud Rate Switch Sections

7 8
1200 Down Down
2400 Down (off) Up
9600 Up (on) Down
19200 Up (on) Up

CONNECTING THE N-7000 INTERFACE

Note: The NELLCOR N-7000 is not available outside the

United States.

The N-7000 provides RS-232 or RS-485 interface capabilities to

the N-200. Data from the N-200 is transmitted through a fiber-
optic cable to the N-7000. The N-7000 outputs data via a
standard 25-pin Dconnector.

Connect the N-7000 to the N-200 as follows:

1. Set the N-200 BAUD RATE switches to 2400 (switch 7

down; 8 up).

2. Set the N-200 RS-232 FORMAT switches to the N-7000/

N-9000 format (switches 3–5 down).

3. Connect the gray end of the fiber-optic cable provided with

the N-7000 to the DATA connector on the N-200
powerbase. Connect the blue end to the unlabeled data
input connector on the side of the N-7000. Push each
connector in until it snaps into place. Route the fiber-optic
cable without bending it; poor transmission may occur if
the cable is kinked.

65
Connecting to Other Instruments

CONNECTING TO THE N-7500 NETWORK

Refer to the N-7500 operator’s manual for full instructions.

Nellcor’s OXINET N-7500 pulse oximetry network is a radio-

frequency telemetry system that displays data from as many as
eight NELLCOR pulse oximeters, such as the N-200, on its
central monitoring station. The installed N-7500 includes radio
interfaces, connected NELLCOR pulse oximeters, and the
central monitoring station.

To connect the N-7500 to the N-200, set the rear-panel DIP

switches as follows: switches 3, 4, 5, and 7 down; switch 8 up.

CONNECTING THE N-9000 RECORDER/INTERFACE

Connect the N-9000 to the N-200 as follows:

1. Set the N-200 baud rate switches to 2400 (switch 7 down; 8

up).

2. Set the N-200 RS-232 FORMAT switches to the N-7000/

N-9000 recorder format (switch sections 3–5 down).

3. Connect the gray end of the fiber-optic cable provided with

the N-9000 to the DATA connector on the N-200
powerbase. Connect the blue end to the N-9000 connector
labeled DATA INPUT. Push each connector in until it
snaps into place. Route the fiber-optic cable without
bending it; poor transmission may occur if the cable is
kinked.

Refer to the N-9000 operator’s manual for complete operating

instructions.

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 Connecting to Other Instruments

CONNECTING OTHER STRIP-CHART RECORDERS

A general-purpose strip-chart recorder may be connected to the

N-200 to provide a permanent record of oxygen saturation,
pulse rate, pulse waveform, ECG data, and/or data in the trend
and event memories.

The N-200 analog output connectors are standard 3/32-in.

subminiature phone plugs. The output voltage range required
by the recorder (0–1 V or 0–10 V) is set with the N-200
VOLTAGE switch. The oxygen saturation output can be set for
a 0–100% display or an expanded 50–100% display using the
N-200 SpO2% SCALE switch. The pulse rate output is 0–1 V or
0–10 V, with a range of 0–255 bpm and a resolution of 3.9 or
39mV per beat.

To print oxygen saturation and pulse rate, use the SAT and
RATE connectors. Use the ZERO and FULL buttons to
generate zero and full-scale voltage signals in order to adjust
the recorder controls.

To print the pulse (plethysmographic) waveform, use the

PULSE connector; to print the ECG waveform, use the ECG
IN/OUT connector. Use the ZERO and FULL buttons to
generate zero and full-scale voltage signals at the PULSE
connector in order to adjust the recorder controls.

To print trend data on a strip-chart recorder, use the SAT and

RATE connectors; to print event data, use the SAT, RATE, and
PULSE connectors.

Note: Connect only a high impedance device (1 megohm or

higher) to the analog output connectors. Improper
loading distorts the correspondence between the
measured voltage and the intended output voltage.

67
Connecting to Other Instruments

CONNECTING THE THINKJET PRINTER

The ThinkJet printer with an RS-232 serial interface (model

2225D) may be used to print the contents of the trend and
event memories, as well as to record ongoing saturation, pulse
rate, pulse amplitude, and monitor status.

Connect the ThinkJet printer to the N-200 as follows:

1. Set the N-200’s baud rate to 19.2 K using the baud rate
switches: 7 and 8 up.

2. Set the N-200 format using the RS-232 format switches:

3–4 up, 5 down (Graphics Mode I); or to another desired
format.

3. Set the printer’s MODE SELECTION switches: 1–5 down,

6 up, 7–8 down.

4. Set the printer’s RS-232 switches: 1 up, 2–4 down, 5up.

5. Connect the printer to the N-200 using the interface cable

provided by Nellcor with the ThinkJet printer.

WARNING: Provide the ThinkJet with isolated power. If

isolated power is not incorporated in the ThinkJet, use
a standalone isolation transformer.

6. Provide isolated power (if appropriate), turn on the printer,

verify proper operation, and position the paper to start
printing near the top of the page.

Note: If the printer’s switch settings are changed while

it is turned on, it must be turned off and back on
again to implement those changes.

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 Connecting to Other Instruments

CONNECTING THE P-200 PRINTER

The P-200 printer may be used to print the contents of the

trend and event memories, as well as to record ongoing
saturation, pulse rate, pulse amplitude, and monitor status.

To use the P-200 with the N-200:

1. Set the N-200 oximeter DIP switches as follows:

Switches 2, 4, 5, and 8 up
Switches 3 and 7 down
Switches 1 and 6 either up or down

2. On the bottom of the P-200, set the DIP switches as

follows:
On the row of eight switches, set 1,2, and 6 down; all others
are up
On the row of six switches, set 4, 5, and 6 down; all others
are up

3. Connect the printer to the N-200 using the interface cable

provided with the P-200 printer.

4. Turn on the printer and verify proper operation (see the

P-200 operator’s manual).

69
MAINTENANCE
Service
Cleaning
Battery Testing
Determining Software Version
Technical Assistance
Returning the N-200

SERVICE

WARNING: For continued protection against fire,

replace fuses only with those of the same type and
rating.

The N-200 requires no routine service other than periodic

battery replacement and any performance testing mandated by
the operator’s institution. The Troubleshooting section
discusses potential difficulties, their possible causes, and
suggestions for resolving them. Complete service instructions,
including performance tests checks, are contained in the
NELLCOR N-200 service manual.

CLEANING

Caution: Do not immerse the N-200 in liquid or use

caustic or abrasive cleaners.

To clean the N-200’s surfaces, dampen a cloth with a

commercial, nonabrasive cleaner and wipe the top, bottom, and
front surfaces lightly. Do not spray or pour any liquid directly
on the N-200, interface/powerbase, or their accessories. Do not
allow any liquid to come in contact with the power connector,
fuse holder, or switches. Do not allow any liquid to penetrate
the connectors or openings in the chassis.

BATTERY TESTING

The N-200 is equipped with sealed lead-acid batteries. Battery

capacity decreases over time due to several factors, such as
temperature, depth of discharge, and number of charge/
discharge cycles.

71
Maintenance

Replacing the battery periodically ensures battery operation

when needed. A periodic battery check is also recommended.
The interval for this check is at the user’s discretion.
Depending on how the monitor is used, the user may wish to
perform a battery check as often as every 6 months. This check
should also include inspecting the battery’s physical condition.
Any batteries showing leakage or corrosion should be replaced.
Qualified service personnel should check the battery following
instructions given in the N-200 service manual. Regardless of
periodic test results, Nellcor recommends battery replacement
every 2 years. Replacement batteries can be purchased through
Nellcor’s Technical Services Department or your local Nellcor
representative.

DETERMINING SOFTWARE VERSION

To determine the N-200 software version, press the HIGH SAT

and AUDIO ALARM OFF buttons. A two-digit version number
appears in the PULSE RATE display. For example, version 2.7
appears as 27. It may be necessary to turn the control knob
until 0 appears in OXYGEN SATURATION display. To
determine the powerbase software version, press the HIGH
SAT and AUDIO ALARM OFF buttons again, and turn the
control knob to the left until Pb appears in the OXYGEN
SATURATION display; the version number appears in the
PULSE RATE display.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

For technical information or to order parts or a service manual,

contact Nellcor’s Technical Services Department or your local
Nellcor representative. The service manual includes circuit
diagrams and a spare parts list, which may be required by
qualified personnel when servicing the N-200.

72
 Maintenance

RETURNING THE N-200

If it is necessary to return the monitor to Nellcor, call Nellcor’s

Technical Services Department for shipping instructions.

To repack the N-200, disconnect the patient module, and wrap

each separately. If necessary, the powerbase may be
disconnected from the monitor. Each should be wrapped
separately. Pack them in the original shipping carton. In case
the original carton is not available, use a suitable box with an
appropriate amount of packing material. It is not necessary to
return sensors or power cords.

73
TROUBLESHOOTING
Status Messages
Troubleshooting Guide

STATUS MESSAGES

This section lists status messages, along with the actions that
the operator should take. If the recommended actions do not
cause the message to disappear, contact qualified service
personnel or your local Nellcor representative. The service
manual describes additional suggested actions for use by
qualified service personnel.

ALL clr
Trend and event memory has been erased.

The N-200 erases and reinitializes the memories if data has

been corrupted or were erased. The memories can also be
manually cleared and reinitialized. In both cases, the ALL clr
appears. No further action is necessary.

Note: When ALL clr appears because the memory data was
corrupted or erased, a simultaneous 5-second alarm
sounds.

Note: If the N-200 erases the trend and event memory, a

message header appears on the trend graph indicating
that the oldest portion of the memory was erased.

CLr t E
Stored trend and event data has been erased by the operator.

75
Troubleshooting

Err Pb
The powerbase is not communicating with the N-200.
Disconnect the powerbase from AC power, turn the N-200 off
and back on again, and reconnect the powerbase to AC power.
If this does not solve the problem, contact qualified service
personnel.

Note: The instrument will clear the Err Pb message if any

front-panel button is pushed while the N-200 displays
Err Pb, but rear-panel buttons and connectors may
not operate properly.

Err 1
Defective data memory. Contact qualified service personnel.

Err 2
Defective program memory. Contact qualified service
personnel.

Err 3

WARNING: Continue to use the N-200 only in an urgent

situation and only if the defective segment or segments
have been identified. If a defective segment cannot be
identified, do not continue to use the N-200.

Defective display or indicator, or possibly a circuit malfunction.

Contact qualified service personnel.

Note: The N-200 may operate if any front-panel button is

pressed while Err 3 is showing. However, if any
numeric display segment or indicator is missing, the
display or warning indicators may be incorrect.

Err 4
The N-200 lost power without going through the normal
shutdown procedure. Turn the ON/STDBY switch to STDBY
and back to ON. Contact qualified service personnel if error
persists.

76
 Troubleshooting

Err 5
Hardware error. Contact qualified service personnel.

Note: The N-200 may operate if any button is pressed while

Err 5 is displayed.

Err 6
Battery-backed memory contents have been lost, and the trend
memory was erased and reinitialized. The trend memory
operates normally as long as the N-200 is turned on, but when
the ON/STDBY switch is set to STDBY, the trend memory will
be erased. Contact qualified service personnel.

Note: This message may also appear briefly when the N-200
is first turned on after software has been replaced with
a different version. No action is required.

t E On
Trend memory is active.

t E diS
Trend memory is disabled.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

This section discusses potential difficulties and suggestions for

resolving them. If the difficulty persists, contact qualified
service personnel or your local Nellcor representative. The
service manual provides additional troubleshooting
information, which is for use by qualified service personnel.

This section is divided into three troubleshooting categories:

Items 1 through 3 describe general system problems. Items 4
through 13 describe general oximetry subsystem problems.
Item 14 describes trend memory problems.

77
Troubleshooting

General System Problems

1. N-200 does not turn on.

• Check the AC and N-200 interface/powerbase

connections for proper AC power supply.

• Check battery operation. If the battery is discharged,

connect the N-200 to the interface/powerbase. Plug the
power cord into an outlet supplying the appropriate
mains voltage. The interface/powerbase requires a
minimum of 14hours to recharge the N-200 battery
completely.

• Check AC fuse.

2. N-200 operates on AC power but not on battery.

• The battery may be discharged. To recharge the

battery, connect the N-200 to the interface/powerbase.
Plug the power cord into an appropriate AC power
outlet and confirm that the BATT IN USE indicator is
off. A minimum of 14 hours is required to recharge the
battery completely.

• The battery pack or battery charger circuit may be

defective, or the battery fuse may be open.

3. Interface/powerbase is connected to AC power but

the N-200Õs BATT IN USE indicator stays on.

• Check the N-200/interface/powerbase connection. The

BATT IN USE indicator turns off to confirm correct
connection.

• Replace the power cord, check the connections, or try

another AC outlet.

• Check fuse.

78
 Troubleshooting

General Oximetry Subsystem Problems

4. PULSE SEARCH indicator is on; SpO2 and pulse rate

not displayed.

• Check the patient. The patient may be experiencing

shock, hypotension, severe vasoconstriction, severe
anemia, hypothermia, arterial occlusion proximal to
the sensor, or cardiac arrest.

• The sensor may be improperly applied (for example,

too tight) or it may not be plugged in.

• There may be excessive ambient light; cover the sensor

site with opaque material.

• The sensor may be placed on an extremity with a blood

pressure cuff, arterial catheter, or intravascular line.
Move the sensor to an alternate site that is not
affected.

• The patient’s perfusion may be too low for the N-200 to

detect an acceptable pulse.

• Use C-LOCK ECG synchronization; test the N-200 on

someone else; try another sensor site; or try another
sensor (see the NELLCOR Sensors section for
suggestions).

• The sensor may be damaged; replace it.

• The patient module may be damaged; try another

patient module.

5. The pulse amplitude indicator tracks a pulse, but

there is no oxygen saturation or pulse rate.

• Check the patient.

79
Troubleshooting

• Excessive patient motion may be making it impossible

for the N-200 to find a pulse pattern. If possible, keep
the patient still; check whether the sensor is applied
securely and properly and replace if necessary; use
C-LOCK ECG synchronization; move the sensor to a
new site; use a sensor that tolerates more motion; or
set the N-200 for Mode 3.

• The sensor may be damaged; replace it.

• The patient’s perfusion may be too low to allow the

N-200 to measure saturation and pulse rate.

6. Patient module cannot be connected.

• Use only a NELLCORC -13-200, C-20-200, or

C-13-200M patient module.

• Connector pins may be bent; replace the patient

module.

7. SpO 2 or pulse rate change rapidly; pulse amplitude

indicator is erratic. ECG waveform is noisy.

• Check the patient.

• Excessive patient motion may be making it impossible

for the N-200 to find a pulse pattern. If possible, keep
the patient still; check whether the sensor is applied
securely and properly, and replace it if necessary; use
C-LOCK ECG synchronization; move the sensor to a
new site; use a sensor that tolerates more motion; or
set the N-200 for Mode 3.

• An electrosurgical unit (ESU) may be interfering with

performance:

– Move the N-200, the patient module, and the cables

as far from the electrosurgical unit as possible.

– Plug the N-200 and the electrosurgical unit into

different AC power supply.

80
 Troubleshooting

– Move the electrosurgical unit ground pad as close

to the surgical site as possible.

• The sensor may be damp or may have been reused too

often. Replace it.

• If using a sensor extension cable, remove it and

connect the sensor directly to the patient module.

8. ECG LOST is displayed.

• Check the patient.

• If the ECG signal is provided through the patient

module:

– There may be a loose, unplugged, or defective ECG

electrode or electrode cable.

– Check the connections. If the problem persists,

replace the electrodes and/or ECG cables.

– If ECG is provided through the patient module, the

module may be defective. Try another patient
module.

• R-wave amplitude may be insufficient.

– Check the ECG electrode position to verify proper

lead configuration.

– Select (LEAD SELECT) limb lead with greatest

R-wave amplitude.

• ECG signal provided via the rear-panel connector is

inadequate:

– There may be a loose, unplugged, or defective ECG

cable.

– Check the connections. If the problem persists,

replace the electrodes and/or ECG cables.

81
Troubleshooting

– The input signal from the ECG monitor may be

incorrect. Use high level (0.5 to 15 V) ECG analog
output or defibrillator sync pulse wave.

– AC power to the N-200 may have been interrupted.

– An ESU may be interfering. Refer to discussion in

Item 7.

9. When ECG is connected, pulse rate displays but not

saturation.

• Check the patient.

• The sensor may be improperly applied or connected;

check it. The patient’s perfusion may be inadequate;
test the monitor on someone else; try another sensor
(see the NELLCOR Sensors section for suggestions).

10. Displayed pulse rate does not agree with that of ECG
monitor.

• Excessive patient motion may be making it impossible

for the N-200 to find a pulse pattern. If possible, keep
the patient still; check whether the sensor is applied
securely and properly and replace if necessary; use
C-LOCK ECG synchronization; move the sensor to a
new site; use a sensor that tolerates more motion; or
set the N-200 for Mode 3.

• The patient may have a pronounced dicrotic notch,

which causes the pulse rate measurement to double.
Try another sensor site.

• If C-LOCK ECG synchronization is in use, an artifact

or low-quality signal may be present on the ECG
monitor. Adjust ECG leads to improve quality of ECG
signal. Refer to the manual for that monitor.

• An ESU may be interfering. Refer to discussion under

Item 7.

82
 Troubleshooting

11. Oxygen saturation measurement does not correlate

with the value calculated from a blood gas
determination.

• The SpO2 calculation may not have correctly adjusted

for the effects of pH, temperature, PaCO2 , or 2,3-DPG.
Check whether calculations have been corrected
appropriately for relevant variables. (See the
Principles of Operation section for more information.)
In general, calculated saturation values are not as
reliable as direct laboratory hemoximeter
measurements.

• Accuracy can be affected by incorrect sensor

application or use, significant levels of dysfunctional
hemoglobins, intravascular dyes, bright light,
excessive patient movement, venous pulsations,
electrosurgical interference, and placement of a sensor
on an extremity that has a blood pressure cuff, arterial
catheter, or intravascular line. Observe all
instructions, warnings, and cautions in this manual
and in the sensor Directions for Use.

12. Oxygen saturation does not correlate with

laboratory hemoximeter.

• Fractional measurements may not have been converted

to functional measurements before the comparison was
made. The N-200, as well as other two-wavelength
oximeters, measure functional saturation. Multi-
wavelength oximeters, such as the Instrumentation
Laboratory282 CO -Oximeter and Corning
CO-oximeters, measure fractional saturation.
Fractional measurements must be converted to
functional measurements for comparison. Refer to the
equation for this conversion in the Principles of
Operation section.

• Close correlation requires simultaneous blood

sampling and pulse oximeter measurements from the
same arterial supply.

83
Troubleshooting

13. OXYGEN SATURATION display is erratic; ECG

LOST indicator is flashing.

• The ECG electrodes may be displaced, dislodged, or

disconnected from the ECG cable.

• The ECG cable may be disconnected from the patient

module or powerbase/interface connector.

• If the ECG signal is coming from an ECG monitor, the

input cable may have become dislodged from the ECG
IN/OUT connector on the rear panel of the N-200.

Trend Memory Problems

14. Trend data is not available.

• The N-200 may not be plugged into a functional outlet

supplying mains power.

• Data in the trend memory may have been erased.

• The memory battery may be defective. Contact

qualified service personnel.

• Try a different powerbase if one is available.

84
SPECIFICATIONS
Performance
ECG
Environmental Conditions
Electrical Characteristics
Physical Characteristics

PERFORMANCE

Range

Saturation
0–100%

Pulse Rate
20–250 bpm (beats per minute)

85
Specifications

1, 2
Accuracy and Motion Tolerance

Saturation
Without Motion—Adults: 70 to 100% ±2 digits
3
Without Motion—Neonate : 70 to 100% ±3 digits
3
With Motion—Adults and Neonates : 70 to 100% ±3 digits
4,5
Low Perfusion : 70 to 100% ±2 digits

Pulse Rate
5
Without Motion 20 to 250 bpm ±3 digits
With Motion normal physiologic range
(55 – 125 bpm) ±5 digits
4,5
Low Perfusion 20 to 250 bpm ±3 digits

1
Applicability: D-25, D-25L, and N-25 sensors.
2
Definition of Nellcor Standard Motion:
Tapping: 1-2 cm amplitude at an aperiodic* frequency between 1-4 Hz
Rubbing: 1-2 cm amplitude at an aperiodic* frequency between 1-4 Hz
(*Note: “aperiodic” is a randomly changing frequency)
3
Adult specification is shown for D-25 and N-25 sensors with the N-200. Neonate specification
shown for N-25 sensors with the N-200. Validation testing of D-25 and N-25 sensors was
conducted on adult volunteers. Saturation accuracy will vary by sensor type. Refer to the Sensor
Accuracy Grid.
4
Definition of Low Perfusion:
Low perfusion in the context of oximetry is generally used to mean that the detected signal
modulation (pulsatility) is low at the monitoring site. Low percent modulation is defined as a value
of 1.5% modulation or less for the infrared (IR) signal.
51
Specification applies to monitor performance and was validated with Biotek and Nellcor
simulators.

86
 Specifications

ECG

Direct ECG input

Via C-13-200 or C-20-200 patient module

Input
Defibrillator protected, differential; Lead II only

Bandwidth
0.5–40 Hz (monitoring bandwidth)

CMRR
Greater than 100 dB at 50 or 60 Hz with 5 kilohms source
imbalance

Input Range
±0.5-5.0 mV for QRS detection

Input Impedance
greater than 10 megohms

Via Rear-Panel ECG IN/OUT Connector

Input
Defibrillator sync or ECG output waveform from bedside ECG
monitor. Defibrillator protected, differential, standard Lead II
configuration. For optimum performance, waveform with
positive deflection recommended.

Input Range
±0.5 V minimum input signal; should not exceed ±15 V.
Minimum of 10 ms wide at 50% of peak amplitude, delayed by
no more than 40 ms from actual QRS complex.

87
Specifications

Digital Data Output

RS-232
Connector: 9-pin D-type, subminiature, female

Baud Rate: Switch-selectable, 1200, 2400, 9600, and 19,200

Formats: Full, Conditional Full, Computer, Alternate

Computer, Conversation, and Beat-to-Beat

Fiber-optic transmitter
Baud rate: 2400

Formats: Compatible with N-9000 recorder/interface, N-7500

pulse oximetry network, and N-7000 interface.

Analog Data Output

4 each; 3/32-inch phone jacks

Outputs
SpO2, Pulse Rate, Pulse Wave

Output/Input
ECG wave out or ECG wave/defib sync input

Voltage
0–1 V or 0–10 V (switch-selectable)

Range Set
SpO2 0–100% or SpO2 50–100% (switch-selectable)

Accuracy
±20 mV at zero, ±0.5% of full scale, referred to front-panel
display

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Temperature

N-200
41–107.6°F (5–42°C) operating
32–122°F (0–50°C) storage

88
 Specifications

Sensor
Within physiologic range 82.4–107.6°F (28–42°C) for accurate
measurement.

Humidity

Any humidity/temperature combination without condensation.

Altitude

0–10,000 ft (0–3,048 m)

ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Protective Class

Class I: mains-supplied unit using a protective ground

Degree of Protection

Type BF: patient electrically isolated

Voltage

100 VAC -10% to 120 VAC +10%, 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption

Maximum rating: 25 VA

Mains Fuse Rating

1 x T 0.5 A, slow-blow, 250 V

Leakage Current

50 µA maximum, power line to ground

10 µA maximum, patient connector to ground
10 µA maximum, patient connector to power line

89
Specifications

Battery

Type
Lead-acid battery pack, 2.4 AH

Battery Life
90 minutes typical on new, fully charged battery; age and
usage affect battery performance.

Recharge Period
14 hours minimum; 80% charge after 8 hours

Charger Type
Float voltage, 450 mA current limit

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Dimensions

N-200 only
2.5 high x 10 wide x 7 in. deep (64 x 254 x 178 mm)

With powerbase
6.5 high x 10 wide x 10 in. deep (165 x 254 x 254 mm)

Weight

N-200 only
5 lb (2.3 kg)

With powerbase
8 lb (3.7 kg)

Patient Module

Cable length
13 ft (4 m) cable (C-13-200, C-13-200M)
20 ft (6 m) cable (C-20-200)

Connector
Lemo B-series, mates with 12-pin connector on N-200 front
panel

90