Abstract: A sensor dispensing instrument adapted to handle a sensor pack containing a plurality of sensors and to perform a test using one of the sensors, wherein the sensor dispensing instrument includes an electronics assembly for performing the test and displaying test results. The electronics assembly includes a printed circuit board having electrical components, at least one button, and a liquid crystal display mounted thereon. The electronics assembly is formed and tested prior to assembling the electronics assembly into the outer housing of the sensor dispensing instrument.

Abstract: A gas spectrometer is provided having an enhanced capability for maintaining initial calibration conditions therewithin. The gas spectrometer is particularly apt for respiratory gas analysis applications and includes a housing assembly that defines an internal containment area(s), within which a radiation source, optical assembly, sample gas assembly and radiation detection assembly are positioned. A gas removal assembly is provided for removing one or more undesired gas component types from within the internal containment area during field use. The gas removal assembly is selectively retractable from the housing assembly to permit periodic servicing (e.g., replacement of CO.sub.2 absorbent) without requiring disassembly or recalibration of the spectrometer.

Abstract: A radiation source assembly is provided that is particularly apt for use in an anesthetic gas monitoring device (e.g., a gas spectrometer) to enhance maintenance of initial calibration conditions therewithin. In one embodiment a respiratory gas spectrometer includes a containment assembly that defines an internal containment area(s) within which a ceramic radiation source, an optical assembly, a sample gas assembly, and a radiation detection assembly are positioned. The radiation source assembly is provided for positioning and supporting the ceramic radiation source relative to the optical assembly within an internal containment area of the gas monitor. The radiation source assembly provides for enhanced sealing between the ceramic radiation source and adjoining componentry. The radiation source assembly is selectively retractable from the containment assembly to permit periodic servicing (e.g., replacement of the radiation source) without requiring disassembly of the gas spectrometer.

Abstract: An infrared spectrometer for anesthetic gas monitoring using an infrared light source is divided into two separately sealed sections. A partition wall separating the two sections contains a partition window allowing infrared light to pass from the infrared source into a sealed sample chamber. In case of a failure of the sealed sample chamber the gas does not come into contact with the infrared source, thereby minmizing the risk of possible explosion. A gasket of neoprene or butyl rubber is used to seal the two sections from one another. The signal produced by the spectrometer indicating the composition of the sample gas is monitored to alert the user of a single point failure at the seal of the sample chamber.