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Medical Device Powered by Nintendo Game Boy

When opened, an older electrocardiogram was found to contain components from a Nintendo Game Boy Advance.

Interior of the electrocardiogram, complete with Game Boy. / Image: @JanHenrikH
Interior of the electrocardiogram, complete with Game Boy. / Image: @JanHenrikH

A recent article from The Verge gave some insight into how medical device companies can get resourceful when developing products. Apparently a woman opened an electrocardiogram measurement instrument to discover a Game Boy Advance. Apparently at the time the device was constructed, single-chip computers were rare and the Game Boy provided an inexpensive, hackable option for programming devices.

A 1997 patent actually illustrates the benefits of integrating a Game Boy into electrocardiograms for its abilities including modular functionality, portability, ease of use, and affordability.

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Need a blister machine for life sciences packaging? Our curated list features companies serving pharmaceutical, medical device, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. Download to access company names, locations, machine specifications, descriptions, and more.
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Researched List: Blister Machines for Life Sciences
Medical Device Innovations Report
Cutting-edge packaging technologies are transforming the medical device sector in PMMI’s “Innovation in Medical Device” report, featuring advanced materials, smart solutions, and evolving regulations. Editors share insights from nearly 300 PACK EXPO booth visits—each product deemed new and truly innovative—alongside video demonstrations of the equipment and materials on display.
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