Enabling Secure Wireless Connections in Hospitals

Mobility in hospitals is a growing trend, resulting in an increased number of wireless medical devices in hospitals and contributes to the Connected Hospital. The Connected Hospital is a vision of a fully integrated hospital where wireless technology allows caregivers and patients to roam throughout the hospital while providing accurate real-time monitoring. The Connected Hospital allows caregivers to focus on providing the best quality of care to their patients, instead of on administrative tasks. When it comes to adding wireless connectivity to medical devices, manufactures must choose their Wi-Fi radios carefully. This is especially important because medical devices constantly transmit sensitive data and operate in one of the harshest RF environments. Hospitals are typically multi-floor structures and contain obstructions such as human bodies, medical equipment, liquids, and lead lined walls. Wireless medical devices can achieve reliable functionality, despite these challenges, if the embedded Wi-Fi module:

• Enables optimized roaming
• Is thoroughly tested
• Offers dual mode support for 2.4 and 5 GHz operation
• Provides WPA2-Enterprisesecurity and FIPS 140-2

The implementation of a 45 Series Wi-Fi module in a medical device allows for smooth integration of Wi-Fi connectivity, ease of use, secure and reliable connections, and quick time to market. The 45 Series of 802.11n Wi-Fi modules from Laird are specifically designed for use in business-critical mobile devices and the challenging radio environments in which they operate. Comprised of the MSD45N, SSD45N, and WB45NBT, the 45 Series modules support Embedded Windows (Windows Embedded 6.0 and 6.5), Linux, and Android (3.0 and above), and offer enterprise security and roaming. In addition, the WB45NBT supports Bluetooth 4.0 dual-mode air standards, data encryption, and BT protocol stacks.

The 45 Series modules are also backed by lifelong support services including system integration support, regulatory process assistance, and technical support from product and Wi-Fi experts. The Embedded Wireless Solutions Technical Help Desk serves as an additional resource for customers seeking support materials and documentation. The support center provides support for all of Laird’s products via an online support ticketing system. Post-sales support services enable devices makers to trouble shoot and resolve field issues quickly throughout the entire development process. Links to documentation and software for EWS radios, support articles on related topics, video demonstrations, and community questions can also be accessed at the support center.

To learn more about enabling secure wireless connections in hospitals and other harsh RF environments, check out the 45 Series webpage.