Network Isolators – Questions and Answers

Network isolators are used for the galvanic isolation of a copper-based Ethernet data line. High-frequency alternating voltages within the frequency range used for data transmission are transferred with minimal loss through electromagnetic induction. Due to this method, the passive electronic components do not require their own power source and behave completely transparently within the data network.

What Is a Medical Network Isolator?

A medical network isolator protects the patient from leakage currents. The network connection between an active medical device and an Ethernet network or a non-medical device, such as an office PC or laptop, is safely galvanically isolated in accordance with IEC EN 60601-1 (3rd edition) for medical electrical equipment and systems.

Network Isolators as Medical Devices

Why a single network isolator cannot be considered a medical device and what operators absolutely need to know.

Why Do I Need a Network Isolator?

What does a network isolator do, and why must it be used?

What Causes Faults and Voltages in the Network Line?

Due to installation errors, aging processes, environmental influences, or moisture, cable sheaths can become brittle or cracked. This unintended electrical connection to other live components can temporarily cause high overvoltages and voltage spikes, leading to faults within the electrical system.

Where Should I Use a Network Isolator?

Network isolators must be used wherever electrically conductive connections via network cables must be prevented. This can apply in commercial, public, and private settings. Common areas of application include:

Which Network Isolator Is Right for Me?

Here you can find out for which user groups the MI 1005/MI 2005 network isolators were developed:

Operating a Medical Device with a Non-Medical Device, e.g., a Printer

When a medical device is connected to a non-medical device, such as a printer, the created data line must be galvanically isolated according to the requirements of IEC 60601-1 / EN 60601-1, and a network isolator must be used.

EN 60601-1-2:2015 (4th Edition)

EN 60601-1-2:2015 – Part 1-2: Electromagnetic compatibility of medical electrical equipment. Explanation of terms.

CE Marking of Network Isolators

CE marking of network isolators. Devices for the galvanic isolation of Ethernet data signals, so-called network isolators, are used as part of a medical electrical system consisting of active medical devices (e.g., ultrasound or endoscope) and non-medical devices (e.g., computers, switches).

IEC 60601-1:2005+A1:2012+A2:2020 (3.2 Edition)

The standard IEC 60601-1:2005+A1:2012+A2:2020 was published in August 2020. It defines the general requirements for basic safety and essential performance of medical electrical devices and medical electrical systems.

Securing the Network Interface of Medical Devices Already During Manufacturing

Important information for manufacturers of medical devices with a network interface.

Application Example of Network Isolator MI 1005/MI 2005 Using a Device Cart

Application example of the MI 1005 network isolator using a device cart. How to properly use a network isolator and why using an isolation transformer alone is not sufficient.