Abstract: A laboratory system for handling sample tube racks, an alignment element for sample tube racks and a rack tray receiver assembly are disclosed. The laboratory system to handle laboratory sample tube racks includes a robotic arm (220) with a gripper (222) for gripping primary racks (PR), the primary racks (PR) to be handled include a first end surface (76) and a second end surface (78), the first end surface (76) having a first surface geometry and the second end surface (78) having a second surface geometry, and the gripper (222) includes a first gripping arm (226) and a second gripping arm (228), with the first gripping arm (226) having a gripping surface being complementary to the first surface geometry, and the second gripping arm (228) having a gripping surface being complementary to the second surface geometry.

Abstract: A specimen transporter connected to a specimen imaging apparatus, the specimen transporter including a specimen receiving section that receives a specimen plate and a specimen storage section that stores an imaged specimen plate. Specimen transporting sections transport the specimen plate from the specimen receiving section to the specimen imaging apparatus and from the specimen imaging apparatus to the specimen storage section. A control section controls operations of the specimen transporting sections to transport the specimen plate received by the specimen receiving section to the specimen imaging apparatus and transport the imaged specimen plate received from the specimen imaging apparatus to the specimen storage section.

Abstract: An accelerometer includes a mass, suspended by a beam, and associated conductive paths. Each conductive path is subjected to a magnetic field, such that, when a time varying signal is applied to the conductive paths, a characteristic resonant frequency is produced, and when the mass experiences an acceleration, a respective change in the resonant frequency is produced that may be interpreted as acceleration data. Embodiments include methods of manufacturing an accelerometer and systems and devices incorporating the accelerometer.

Abstract: A single-axis tilt-mode microelectromechanical accelerometer structure. The structure includes a substrate having a top surface defined by a first end and a second end. Coupled to the substrate is a first asymmetrically-shaped mass suspended above the substrate pivotable about a first pivot point on the substrate between the first end and the second end and a second asymmetrically-shaped mass suspended above the substrate pivotable about a second pivot point on the substrate between the first end and the second end. The structure also includes a first set of electrodes positioned on the substrate and below the first asymmetrically-shaped mass and a second set of electrodes positioned on the substrate and below the second asymmetrically-shaped mass.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for monitoring operation of MEMS accelerometers (100). In these embodiments a control loop (112) having a forward path (114) is coupled a MEMS transducer (110), and a test signal generator (124) and test signal detector (126) is provided. The test signal generator (124) is configured to generate a test signal and apply the test signal to the forward path (114) of the control loop (112) during operation of the MEMS accelerometer transducer (110). The test signal detector (126) is configured to receive an output signal from the control loop and detect the effects of the test signal in the output signal. Finally, the test signal detector (126) is further configured to generate a monitor output indicative of the operation of the sensing device to provide for the continuous monitoring of the operation of the MEMS accelerometer (100).

Abstract: The imaging mode presented here combines the features and benefits of amplitude modulated (AM) atomic force microscopy (AFM), sometimes called AC mode AFM, with frequency modulated (FM) AFM. In AM-FM imaging, the topographic feedback from the first resonant drive frequency operates in AM mode while the second resonant drive frequency operates in FM mode and is adjusted to keep the phase at 90 degrees, on resonance. With this approach, frequency feedback on the second resonant mode and topographic feedback on the first are decoupled, allowing much more stable, robust operation.

Abstract: A method for analyzing a sample having at least one analyte includes the step of heating the sample at a rate of at least 106 K/s to thermally desorb at least one analyte from the sample. The desorbed analyte is collected. The analyte can then be analyzed.

Abstract: A multifunctional measuring device, such as for measuring a current in a primary current conductor in a medium voltage switchgear is disclosed which includes a housing with an aperture for accommodation of the primary current conductor; an inner winding accommodated around the aperture inside of the housing for a measurement of current in a primary current conductor; and an external winding wound on the housing around the aperture for another current measurement.

Abstract: A high voltage connector assembly includes a plurality of pin assemblies, each of the plurality of pin assemblies having a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the plurality of pin assemblies is configured to releasably electrically engage a load board. A plurality of pin pads, wherein the second end of each of the plurality of pin assemblies is configured to electrically engage a pin pad included within the plurality of pin pads. A plurality of connector pads are electrically coupled to the plurality of pin pads, wherein each of the plurality of connector pads is configured to be electrically coupled to a wire-based conductor included within a plurality of wire-based conductors. A potting compound is configured to encapsulate the plurality of connector pads.

Abstract: A touch sensor capable of specifying a touch position and/or a degree of a touch pressure by using graphene as an electrode and/or a strain gauge, and more particular, a touch sensor capable of simultaneously detecting a pressure and a position by means of change in resistance by using graphene is provided.

Abstract: The terminals of a device under test (DUT) are temporarily electrically connected to corresponding contact pads on a load board by a series of electrically conductive pin pairs. The pin pairs are held in place by an interposer membrane with a top facing the device under test, a bottom facing the load board, and a vertically resilient, non-conductive member between the top and bottom contact plates. Each pin pair includes a top and bottom pin, which extend beyond the top and bottom contact plates, respectively, toward the device under test and the load board, respectively. The bottom pins has a lower contact surface which includes an arcuate portion or ridge which increases contact pressure and ablates oxides by the rocking action of ridge when the DUT in inserted.

Abstract: The present invention is a rhodium alloy suitable for wire for a probe pin, the rhodium alloy comprising 30 to 150 ppm of Fe, 80 to 350 ppm of Ir and 100 to 300 ppm of Pt as additive elements, and the balance being Rh. A probe pin composed of the material maintains processability of rhodium, has stable contact resistance even at a low contact pressure, and has excellent strength and antifouling properties, and therefore, can be used in a stable manner for a long period.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include devices and methods for searching IQ-based time-domain traces for events, marking the events, and analyzing intervals of interest at or around the events on a display unit of a test and measurement instrument. The test and measurement instrument can include an input terminal to receive an RF signal, an ADC to digitize the RF signal, a digital downconverter to produce I (in-phase) and Q (quadrature) baseband component information from the digitized RF signal, an acquisition memory to acquire and store a record, a trace generation section to generate one or more IQ-based time-domain traces, and a search unit to scan the IQ-based time-domain traces for one or more events. The search unit can locate and mark the events for display on a display unit of the test and measurement instrument.

Abstract: A sensor comprises primary ferrite members spaced apart from the magnetic field sensor on opposite sides of the magnetic field sensor concentrate or steer an orientation of a magnetic field of the observed signal toward a target area of the magnetic field sensor. A magnetic field sensor senses a direct current signal component or lower frequency component of the observed signal. A first filtering circuit has a high-pass filter response. The first filtering circuit is coupled to the inductor to provide a filtered alternating current signal component. A second filtering circuit has a low-pass filter response. The second filtering circuit coupled to the magnetic field sensor to provide a filtered direct current signal component. A sensor fusion circuit determines an aggregate sensed current based on the filtered alternating current signal component and the filtered direct current signal component.

Abstract: A voltage sensor for obtaining a light signal representative of an AC voltage in a live electrical wire having a surrounding electrical field, comprising: a conducting device adapted to be placed in the surrounding electrical field and in galvanic isolation to the live electrical wire for causing a movement of charges and extracting a current from the movement of charges; a micro-light source for emitting a light signal, the micro-light source being operatively connected to the conducting device for receiving the extracted current and being directly powered by the extracted current, an intensity of the light signal being related to a value of the AC voltage in the electrical wire; a light guide, operatively coupled to the micro-light source, for receiving and propagating the light signal over a distance.

Abstract: There is provided a power supply monitoring circuit including a holding part holding, every time a local maximum value of a power supply voltage which fluctuates is detected, the local maximum value as a local maximum voltage value, a power stop detector detecting whether or not supply of the power supply voltage is stopped based on whether or not a state that a value of the power supply voltage is smaller than a first reference value according to the local maximum voltage value continues longer than a predetermined period, and a reference value controller decreasing the first reference value during a period in which the value of the power supply voltage exceeds a second reference value smaller than the first reference value and in which stop of the supply of the power supply voltage is detected.

Abstract: The disclosure extends to apparatuses, methods, systems, and computer program products for generating and optimizing irrigation protocols. The disclosure also extends to a system and method for detecting an expansion module in an irrigation system in accordance with the disclosed methods, systems, and computer program products for optimizing water usage in growing plants for yard and crops.

Abstract: There is provided a power detection circuit capable of appropriately adjusting detection voltage characteristics by using simple configuration. The power detection circuit includes a first resistor having current applied thereto to adjust a detection voltage value of input power, an element having an applied voltage and a load characteristic changed according to the input power, and a second resistor connected to the element and having current applied thereto when resistance of the element becomes relatively low, to adjust the detection voltage value of the input power. Detection voltage characteristics may be appropriately adjusted using a simple configuration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing an electronic appliance, which determines an abnormality of the electronic appliance, such as a malfunction or worn out of the electronic appliance, based on power consumption information measured in the electronic appliance while an operation requested by a user of the electronic appliance is performed by the electronic appliance, and past power consumption information about the same operation performed by the same electronic appliance, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program to execute the method.

Abstract: Disclosed are a device and a method for comparing a detected frequency signal (first frequency signal) and a second frequency signal which is obtained by delaying the detected frequency, to determine whether the frequency transitioned to a predetermined area on high frequency side or reached a predetermined value on the upward direction side. The frequency detection device (1) comprises: a delayed signal output circuit (11) that outputs a second frequency signal (F2) obtained by delaying the first frequency signal (F1), which has a frequency that changes over time, by a set period (?i); and a determination circuit (12), which inputs the first frequency signal (F1) and the second frequency signal (F2), determines whether or not the cycle of the first frequency signal (F1) is included in the cycle of the second frequency signal (F2) and/or whether or not the cycle of the second frequency signal (F2) is included in the cycle of the first frequency signal (F1), and outputs a determination signal.

Abstract: A diagnostic system of a vehicle includes an impedance module and a diagnostic module. The impedance module determines an impedance of a sensing element of an exhaust gas oxygen sensor based on a response of the sensing element to a change in current through the sensing element. The diagnostic module selectively diagnoses a fault associated with the exhaust gas oxygen sensor based on the impedance of the sensing element.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for detecting whether at least one of an antenna mast and a detection mechanism is installed to an antenna. In one embodiment, a method includes monitoring at least one of amplitude modulation (AM) band data and direct current (DC) power data of the antenna; and selectively determining whether at least one of the antenna mast and the detection mechanism is installed based on the at least one of the AM band data and the DC power data.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example medical device may include a control unit for determining an electrical leakage between a first electrode pad and a second electrode pad of an in vivo medical device. The first electrode pad may be spaced from the second electrode pad. The first electrode pad may have an active electrode and a spaced ground electrode. The second electrode pad may have an active electrode and a ground electrode. The ground electrode of the first electrode pad may be electrically connected to the ground electrode of the second electrode pad.

Abstract: Disclosed is a continuous broken sense lead detection system (“CBSLDS”) for use with a Kelvin-connected device under test (“DUT”), a power source, and detection system stimulus configured to provide a periodic stimulus voltage. The CBSLDS is configured to detect a discontinuity in a first sense lead, second sense lead, or both, that are in signal communication with the DUT. The CBSLDS includes a first transformer, second transformer, first DC-blocker, second DC-blocker, first detection module, and second detection module.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for checking a separation point (14) between a photovoltaic inverter (1) and a power supply network (7) having multiple phases (L1, L2, L3) and a neutral conductor (N), wherein multiple switching contacts of the separation point (14) are controlled by the photovoltaic inverter (1), and to a photovoltaic inverter (1). To allow a simple and quick check of the functionality of the separation point (14), the switching contacts of the separation point (14) are each formed by single-pole relays (15-22) and switched in steps according to a switching pattern. For checking switching contacts, a voltage (26, 27, 28) is measured at at least one phase (L1, L2, L3) with respect to the neutral conductor (N), upstream of the separation point (14), and compared to voltage values assigned in accordance with the switching pattern, thereby to deduce the functionality of the switching contacts.

Abstract: Modular wiring harness testing systems and apparatus are provided for testing wiring harnesses such as those used in the automotive industry. The testing apparatus is configurable (or re-configurable) to test a plurality of different types of wiring harnesses that have different configurations in terms of the number of wires, number of circuits and/or the number, size or type of connectors.

Abstract: A wafer test system includes an input device configured to transmit a test signal, a wafer including an optical port, an input port configured to receive the test signal, and an output port configured to output a result signal based on the test signal, a measuring device configured to measure the result signal, and an alignment device configured to align an optical fiber port of an optical probe with an alignment port based on the result signal and then align the optical fiber port with the optical port. The alignment port is the input port or the output port. The optical probe is configured to be the input device when the input port is the alignment port and the optical probe is configured to be the measuring device when the output port is the alignment port.

Abstract: A memory test method is disclosed that can include providing at least one first switch of at least one test element coupled to a first memory section between a first node within a tested section and an intermediate node, coupling a test switch of the test element between the intermediate node and a forced voltage node, and coupling a second switch of the test element between the intermediate node and a second node; wherein the forced voltage node receives a forced voltage substantially the same as a voltage applied to the second node, and the second node is coupled to at least a second memory section.

Abstract: Systems and methods for scanning and characterizing an integrated circuit for transient events. Embedded apparatus can detect transient events that may be incident on the integrated circuit, and moreover, identify particular nodes of the integrated circuit that are affected by the transient event. Additionally, the integrated circuit can be characterized by applying known transient pulses of varying severity to selected nodes of the integrated circuit, detecting the severity levels at which the selected nodes can fail, and storing indications pertaining to pulse severity at which selected nodes can fail. Moreover, based on the characterization, targeted protection mechanisms can be provided for nodes that are characterized as being susceptible.

Abstract: A test circuit within a semiconductor wafer that measures a cut-off frequency for a transistor device under test may include a radio frequency source, located within a region of the wafer, that generates a radio frequency signal. A biasing circuit, also located within the region, may provide a current bias setting to the transistor device under test. The biasing circuit receives the radio frequency signal and applies a buffered radio frequency signal to the transistor device under test. The biasing circuit generates a buffered output signal based on the transistor device under test generating a first output signal in response to receiving the applied buffered radio frequency signal. An rf power detector, within the region, receives the first output signal and the radio frequency signal, and generates an output voltage signal, wherein the cut-off frequency of the transistor device under test is determined from the generated output voltage signal.

Abstract: An electronic design automation (EDA) tool for increasing the fault coverage of an integrated circuit (IC) design includes a processor that inserts at least one XOR gate, an AND gate, an OR gate and a multiplexer between observation test points and an existing first scan flip-flop of the IC design. The XOR gate provides an observation test signal to the first scan flip-flop by way of the AND gate, the OR gate, and the multiplexer such that the observation test signal covers the presence of faults at the observation test points. The first scan flip-flop outputs a data input signal, a set of test patterns, and a first set of test signals based on the observation test signal to indicate whether the IC design is faulty or not. A testable IC that can be structurally tested is fabricated using the IC design.

Abstract: A method and circuits for implementing multiple input signature register (MISR) compression for test time reduction, and a design structure on which the subject circuits reside are provided. The MISR compression circuit includes a first MISR, a second MISR provided with the first MISR, and a compressor to compress MISR data positioned in one of between the first MISR and second MISR and after the second MISR.

Abstract: A membrane switch circuit testing system includes a testing module and a connection element. After the connection element is connected with a membrane switch circuit and the testing module, the testing module assigns an identification code to a key intersection of the membrane switch circuit. When the key intersection is depressed, an equivalent circuit is defined by the depressed key intersection and a corresponding fixed resistor of the testing module. Moreover, the testing module acquires an intersection resistance value of the depressed key intersection from the equivalent circuit. Consequently, the testing module judges whether the depressed key intersection is qualified according to the intersection resistance value.

Abstract: Provided is a secondary battery management system and method for exchanging information in a multi-pack parallel structure using the same, and more particularly, to a secondary battery management system and method for exchanging information in a multi-pack parallel structure using the same, including: a unit battery cell; a battery module in which a plurality of unit battery cells are disposed; and a voltage temperature management system (VTMS) generates a state information and generates a diagnosis information of battery module or the unit battery cells using unit battery cell information for the unit battery cells.

Abstract: A battery-state monitoring system for precisely and efficiently estimating the state and service life of each of a plurality of storage batteries while suppressing variations in voltage between the batteries in a large-scale power-supply system that is provided with the storage batteries charged with power generated by utilizing natural energy is provided. The system includes a power supply control device that detects a current in each storage battery, an end device that measures temperature, voltage, and internal resistance of each battery, the internal resistance being measured by using at least two or more kinds of frequencies, and a prime monitoring device that acquires measurement data from the end device corresponding to each battery and issues an instruction related to an operation to the power supply control device and the end device. The prime monitoring device estimates degradation of each battery based on one or more of temperature, voltage, internal resistance.

Abstract: A high voltage service disconnect assembly is provided. The battery pack has an enclosure, first and second battery modules, and positive and negative pack voltage terminals. The assembly includes a housing securing first and second conductive pins thereon. The first conductive pin is coupled to a negative voltage terminal of the first battery module. The second conductive pin is coupled to a positive voltage terminal of the second battery module. The assembly further includes a detection circuit electrically coupled to the first and second conductive pins. The detection circuit outputs a first isolation resistance fault signal when a first isolation resistance fault is detected between the negative pack voltage terminal and the enclosure.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a battery control system, comprising: a plurality of battery units comprising a battery system; and a controller coupled to the plurality of battery units, the controller configured to monitor, for each battery unit, a first voltage and a second voltage, the first voltage corresponding to an absolute value of a shut-off voltage and a second voltage corresponding to a warning voltage, the first voltage smaller than the second voltage, wherein responsive to one of the battery units reaching the second voltage, the controller is configured to provide a first alert before the any of the battery units reaches the first voltage.

Abstract: A fault in a DC power source, such as a battery string or a string of photovoltaic cells, is identified by detecting a change in an AC component of a residual current of the DC power source. In some embodiments, the DC power source is coupled to at least one DC bus and the methods further include generating an AC voltage on the at least one DC bus. For example, the DC power source may be coupled to a modulated DC bus of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system comprising an inverter having an input coupled to the DC bus. The inverter may be configured to generate an AC output voltage and the AC component has a frequency that is a harmonic of a fundamental frequency of the AC output voltage, such as a third harmonic of the fundamental frequency of the AC output voltage.

Abstract: A planarized 3-dimensional magnetic sensor chip includes a first magnetic sensing device, a second magnetic sensing device, a third magnetic sensing device and a magnetic flux bending concentrating structure on a circuit chip substrate, wherein the first magnetic sensing device and the second magnetic sensing device are used to measure the magnitude of flux in a first direction and a third direction together, and the third magnetic sensing device is used to measure the magnitude of flux in a second direction, the magnetic flux bending concentrating structure is used to bend the magnitude of flux in the third direction to the first direction, such that the magnitude of flux in the third direction can be measured by first magnetic sensing device and the second magnetic sensing device in the first direction.

Abstract: An MMS sensor assembly includes a U-shaped bottom housing that forms a recess in which is received a conductor whose current is to be sensed and a top housing arranged to be removably latched to the bottom housing. At least one magnetic field sensor is situated within the top housing, such the magnetic field sensor is positioned adjacent the conductor when the top housing is latched to the bottom housing, and is removable from the sensor assembly for repair or replacement. Circuitry connected to the magnetic field sensor includes a data storage device to store correction/compensation tables and/or equations for self-calibration or correction of the sensor.

Abstract: Disclosed is a Hall Effect instrument with the capability of compensating for temperature drift consistently, accurately and in real time of operation. The instrument embodies a four-point ohmmeter circuit measuring Hall Effect sensor resistance and tracking the effect of temperature on the Hall Effect sensor. The instrument takes into account a relationship between the temperature and a temperature compensation index on a per probe basis, which has exhibited a deterministic difference observed by the present inventor.

Abstract: A handpiece defines a bore in which a proximal end of a catheter or other interventional instrument is received. An insulating support supports an interventional instrument which carries a transmission line winding in, but spaced from, the internal bore. A handpiece winding disposed along the bore interacts with the instrument transmission line winding to form an inductive coupling with the instrument transmission line winding. After the handpiece is slid axially to adjust the inductive coupling between the handpiece and windings, a locking mechanism functions in such a manner that the interventional instrument is inhibited from axial sliding motion relative to the handpiece while permitting rotation of the interventional instrument relative to the handpiece thus maintaining the inductive coupling while allowing optimal handling of the device.

Abstract: A radio frequency (RF) body coil includes a first end ring, a second end ring, a plurality of rungs connected between the first and second end rings, at least one shim holder coupled to the first end ring, and a RF shim configured to be at least partially inserted within the shim holder, the RF shim being repositionable within the shim holder to vary an operational frequency of the RF body coil. A magnetic resonance imaging system and a method of tuning the RF body coil are also described.

Abstract: The present embodiments include an antenna circuit that is adapted to supply and/or read out a plurality of antenna elements of an antenna assembly of a magnetic resonance imaging system. The antenna elements are decoupled by phase shifter elements and supplied with signals by the phase shifter elements. The antenna circuit may also be used to detect signals that are received by the antenna elements.

Abstract: A device for power measurement for the purposes of plausibility checking and/or calibration of a primary power measurement device on a power amplifier of a magnetic resonance device is provided. The device includes a circulator arranged between an output of the power amplifier and a switching device for connection of the power amplifier to a transmit antenna. A first input of the circulator is connected to the output of the power amplifier, a second input of the circulator is connected to the switching device, and a third input of the circulator is connected to a secondary power measurement device configured for measurement of a signal reflected on the open switching device or the transmit antenna.

Abstract: An magnetic resonance examination system for examination of an object comprises an RF system to generate an RF transmission field and gradient system to generate temporary magnet gradient fields. A control module includes a sequence controller to control the RF system and the gradient system to produce acquisition sequences including RF pulses and magnetic gradient pulses to generate magnetic resonance signals. The sequence controller is configured to produce an detection scan including a steady state gradient echo acquisition sequence to generate steady state gradient echo signals and an RF spoiled echo acquisition sequence to produce RF spoiled echo signals. The control module further including an analysis unit to compare the gradient echo signals to the RF spoiled echo signals and for detection of an instrument in the object from the comparison of the gradient echoes and the RF spoiled echoes.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method to generate an MR image of an examination subject of MR signals of the examination subject being detected with a receiver coil element of a magnetic resonance system. A spatially related sensitivity is determined for the receiver coil element. A mask is generated for the receiver coil element depending on the sensitivity of the receiver coil element in order to therewith mask a region of the MR image, in which region the receiver coil element has at least one predetermined sensitivity. At least one RF excitation pulse and at least one magnetic field gradient are activated to acquire MR data with the receiver coil element, and a preliminary MR image is generated depending on MR data acquired therewith. The mask of the receiver coil element is applied to the preliminary MR image in order to generate an MR image of the receiver coil element, and an MR image of the examination subject is generated from the MR image for the receiver coil element.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for generating an image from N reception signal data sets of signals received by a plurality of coils of a magnetic resonance tomography appliance from a region of a body to be examined using an image processing computer are provided. The apparatus includes a degree-of-compression determining device. A ratio N/M of the number N of N reception signal data sets generated from the signals received by the plurality of coils to a smaller number M of mode data sets is defined taking account of a plurality of parameters. The plurality of parameters at least also represent system resources of the image processing computer. Using a compression computer, the N reception signal data sets are compressed into M mode data sets. After this, the M mode data sets are used by the image processing computer for generating the image of the region of the body.

Abstract: In a method to select an undersampling scheme of k-space and an associated set of reconstruction kernels to acquire reduced magnetic resonance (MR) data sets with multiple coils, a calibration data set is acquired for each of the respective coils, a noise covariance is determined from autocorrelations and correlations of the noise of the various coils. At least one set of reconstruction kernels is calculated for each of the multiple undersampling schemes from the calibration data sets of the various coils. For each set of reconstruction kernels, a characteristic value is calculated from the noise covariance and the respective reconstruction kernels of the coils, with the characteristic value being proportional to a spatial mean value of a signal noise of an MR image. A selected undersampling scheme and a selected set of reconstruction kernels are selected based on the calculated characteristic values.

Abstract: A comparatively light and compact permanent magnet arrangement for an MRI apparatus has a pair of opposed permanent magnet arrays with a shimming system to adjust the uniformity and strength of a magnetic field in a central chamber of the apparatus. The MRI apparatus is used to examine the extremities of a patient to determine cardiovascular characteristics from an analysis of the blood flow through selected arteries in the extremity. The information collected can be used to calculate such characteristics as total cardiac output, blood flow, arterial wall thickness and elasticity and the presence of plaque.