Medical
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology can display images of the human body by detecting nuclear magnetic resonance signals. These signals are detected by RF coils that amplify the signal to sufficient levels for reading by the processing electronics. Typically, a very stiff, bulky, shielded copper cable provides power to the coil amplifier. In the presence of the high switching fields used in the MRI process, common mode signals and ground loops present a challenge to signal integrity and can cause cable heating that may result in patient burns. The use of non-conductive fiber eliminates these risks and offers the promise of an improved signal-to-noise ratio. Since fiber requires a smaller cross-sectional area, more coils can be powered in the same available volume, offering improved imaging quality. Similarly, other electronic patient monitoring devices operating in high magnetic and RF fields can be powered using isolated photonic power to ensure interference-free measurements.
Photonic power can offer the following cost and performance advantages for medical applications:
