M2501A: Reliable and High-Performance Capnography Monitoring
The Philips M2501A is a high-performance Mainstream capnography sensor designed to accurately measure the concentration of exhaled carbon dioxide (EtCO₂) in critically ill, anesthetized, or mechanically ventilated patients. Using infrared spectroscopy, it captures CO₂ values directly at the patient’s airway, ensuring immediate responsiveness and reliable data without interpretation delay.
Unlike Sidestream sensors, which require gas aspiration through tubing, the M2501A eliminates latency by analyzing gases in real-time. This approach ensures precise measurements with a response time of less than 60 milliseconds, making it an optimal solution for patient monitoring, particularly in hospital environments and during surgical procedures.
The M2501A sensor by Philips is designed to provide high measurement stability. It features a wide measurement range from 0 to 150 mmHg (or 0 to 20 kPa) with guaranteed accuracy across different concentration ranges:
- 0-40 mmHg: ±2 mmHg
- 41-70 mmHg: ±5% of the reading
- 71-100 mmHg: ±8% of the reading
- 101-150 mmHg: ±10% of the reading
This accuracy is maintained over time, with a maximum drift of 0.8 mmHg over 4 hours and adherence to specifications for 120 hours without recalibration. Additionally, an adapter zeroing process is automatically completed in 15 seconds when changing the airway adapter type, ensuring optimal performance in all conditions.
The M2501A stands out for its ergonomic and durable design. Weighing less than 25 grams, it is perfectly suited for patients of all age groups, including neonates and infants. Its compact housing (33 x 48 x 23 mm) and IPX4 protection rating (splash resistance) ensure extended durability, even in demanding environments.
Thanks to its non-moving-part construction, this sensor is designed to minimize failure risks and reduce maintenance costs. It is also capable of withstanding repeated drops from 1.8 meters onto a tiled surface, demonstrating its exceptional impact resistance.
The Philips M2501A is compatible with several Philips monitoring systems, including:
- M3014A capnography extension
- MP5 (M8105A), MP2 (M8102A), and X2 (M3002A) patient monitors
Its operation is enhanced by automatic gas and barometric pressure compensation, along with specific settings for the presence of oxygen (0-100%), nitrous oxide (ON/OFF), and helium (ON/OFF).
To ensure long-term reliable use, Philips also offers an M2505A regulator and an M2506A verification gas bottle, which can be used for periodic sensor testing.