The Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) device is intended for in vitro diagnostic use to display digital images of histopathology slides acquired from IVD-labeled whole-slide imaging scanners that have been validated for use with this device, for review and interpretation by pathologists. The display is not intended for use with digital images from frozen section, cytology, or non-formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (non-FFPE) hematopathology specimens.
Device Story
MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) is a 27-inch color-calibrated IPS LCD display system for viewing digital histopathology slides. Device receives digital image data from validated IVD-labeled whole-slide imaging scanners; displays images for pathologist review and interpretation in clinical settings. System includes QAWeb quality assurance software for calibration and luminance stabilization via front sensor. Output allows pathologists to perform diagnostic interpretation of tissue samples. Benefits include standardized, color-accurate visualization of digital pathology slides to support clinical decision-making.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Performance validated via spatial resolution, pixel defect, artifact, temporal response, luminance/chromaticity stability, grayscale tracking, and noise power spectrum testing. Results demonstrate performance equivalent to predicate device.
Technological Characteristics
27-inch IPS LCD panel; 2560x1440 resolution; 10-bit/sub-pixel LUT; 1000:1 contrast ratio; 500 cd/m² max luminance. Features front-sensor luminance stabilization. Connectivity via DisplayPort/USB. Calibration software: MediCal QAWeb. Operating temperature 10-40°C.
Indications for Use
Indicated for pathologists to review and interpret digital images of histopathology slides (FFPE) acquired from validated IVD-labeled whole-slide imaging scanners. Not indicated for frozen section, cytology, or non-FFPE hematopathology specimens.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
The whole slide imaging system is an automated digital slide creation, viewing, and management system intended as an aid to the pathologist to review and interpret digital images of surgical pathology slides. The system generates digital images that would otherwise be appropriate for manual visualization by conventional light microscopy.
Special Controls
A whole slide imaging system must comply with the following special controls: (1) Premarket notification submissions must include the following information: (i) The indications for use must specify the tissue specimen that is intended to be used with the whole slide imaging system and the components of the system. (ii) A detailed description of the device and bench testing results at the component level, including for the following, as appropriate: (A) Slide feeder; (B) Light source; (C) Imaging optics: (D)Mechanical scanner movement; (E) Digital imaging sensor; (F) Image processing software; (G)Image composition techniques; (H)Image file formats; (I) Image review manipulation software; (J) Computer environment; (K)Display system. (iii)Detailed bench testing and results at the system level, including for the following, as appropriate: (A)Color reproducibility; (B) Spatial resolution; (C) Focusing test; (D) Whole slide tissue coverage; (E) Stitching error: (F) Turnaround time. (iv) Detailed information demonstrating the performance characteristics of the device, including, as appropriate: (A)Precision to evaluate intra-system and inter-system precision using a comprehensive set of clinical specimens with defined, clinically relevant histologic features from various organ systems and diseases. Multiple whole slide imaging systems, multiple sites, and multiple readers must be included. (B) Reproducibility data to evaluate inter-site variability using a comprehensive set of clinical specimens with defined, clinically relevant histologic features from various organ systems and diseases. Multiple whole slide imaging systems, multiple sites, and multiple readers must be included. (C) Data from a clinical study to demonstrate that viewing, reviewing, and diagnosing digital images of surgical pathology slides prepared from tissue slides using the whole slide imaging system is non-inferior to using an optical microscope. The study should evaluate the difference in major discordance rates between manual digital (MD) and manual optical (MO) modalities when compared to the reference (e.g., main sign-out diagnosis). (D) A detailed human factors engineering process must be used to evaluate the whole slide imaging system user interface(s). (2) Labeling compliant with 21 CFR 809.10(b) must include the following: The intended use statement must include the information described in paragraph (i) (1)(i) of this section, as applicable, and a statement that reads, "It is the responsibility of a qualified pathologist to employ appropriate procedures and safeguards to assure the validity of the interpretation of images obtained using this device." (ii) A description of the technical studies and the summary of results, including those that relate to paragraph (1)(ii) and (1)(iii) of this section, as appropriate. (iii) A description of the performance studies and the summary of results, including those that relate to paragraph (1)(iv) of this section, as appropriate. (iv) A limiting statement that specifies that pathologists should exercise professional judgment in each clinical situation and examine the glass slides by conventional microscopy if there is doubt about the ability to accurately render an interpretation using this device alone.
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special controls for this device are:(1) Premarket notification submissions must include the following information:
(i) The indications for use must specify the tissue specimen that is intended to be used with the whole slide imaging system and the components of the system.
(ii) A detailed description of the device and bench testing results at the component level, including for the following, as appropriate:
(A) Slide feeder;
(B) Light source;
(C) Imaging optics;
(D) Mechanical scanner movement;
(E) Digital imaging sensor;
(F) Image processing software;
(G) Image composition techniques;
(H) Image file formats;
(I) Image review manipulation software;
(J) Computer environment; and
(K) Display system.
(iii) Detailed bench testing and results at the system level, including for the following, as appropriate:
(A) Color reproducibility;
(B) Spatial resolution;
(C) Focusing test;
(D) Whole slide tissue coverage;
(E) Stitching error; and
(F) Turnaround time.
(iv) Detailed information demonstrating the performance characteristics of the device, including, as appropriate:
(A) Precision to evaluate intra-system and inter-system precision using a comprehensive set of clinical specimens with defined, clinically relevant histologic features from various organ systems and diseases. Multiple whole slide imaging systems, multiple sites, and multiple readers must be included.
(B) Reproducibility data to evaluate inter-site variability using a comprehensive set of clinical specimens with defined, clinically relevant histologic features from various organ systems and diseases. Multiple whole slide imaging systems, multiple sites, and multiple readers must be included.
(C) Data from a clinical study to demonstrate that viewing, reviewing, and diagnosing digital images of surgical pathology slides prepared from tissue slides using the whole slide imaging system is non-inferior to using an optical microscope. The study should evaluate the difference in major discordance rates between manual digital (MD) and manual optical (MO) modalities when compared to the reference (
*e.g.,* main sign-out diagnosis).(D) A detailed human factor engineering process must be used to evaluate the whole slide imaging system user interface(s).
(2) Labeling compliant with 21 CFR 809.10(b) must include the following:
(i) The intended use statement must include the information described in paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section, as applicable, and a statement that reads, “It is the responsibility of a qualified pathologist to employ appropriate procedures and safeguards to assure the validity of the interpretation of images obtained using this device.”
(ii) A description of the technical studies and the summary of results, including those that relate to paragraphs (b)(1)(ii) and (iii) of this section, as appropriate.
(iii) A description of the performance studies and the summary of results, including those that relate to paragraph (b)(1)(iv) of this section, as appropriate.
(iv) A limiting statement that specifies that pathologists should exercise professional judgment in each clinical situation and examine the glass slides by conventional microscopy if there is doubt about the ability to accurately render an interpretation using this device alone.
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# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY
A. 510(k) Number:
K172922
B. Purpose for Submission:
New display
C. Manufacturer and Instrument Name:
Barco N.V.
MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD)
D. Type of Test or Tests Performed:
Digital pathology display
E. System Descriptions:
1. Device Description:
The MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) is a 27" color LCD flat panel medical display with a fine pixel pitch that can be calibrated to the sRGB gamut. The display is designed to view scanned digital images of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue slides, using IVD-labeled whole slide imaging systems. Display accessories include QAWeb quality assurance software, DisplayPort cable, USB cable and AC power cord cables. The display has the following specifications :
| Display Characteristics and Electro-Optical Performance | |
| --- | --- |
| Display technology | IPS LCD |
| Native Resolution | 2560 x1440 |
| Display LUT | ≥ 10 bit / sub-pixel |
| Pixel Pitch (Horizontal) (mm) | 0.2331 |
| Pixel pitch (Vertical) (mm) | 0.2331 |
| Active screen (Diagonal) (mm / inch) | 685.8 / 27.0 |
| Active screen (Width) (mm) | 596.74 |
| Active screen (Height) (mm) | 335.66 |
| Contrast Ratio - (typical) | 1000:1 |
| Luminance stabilization | +2% / -2% front sensor |
| Maximum Luminance (typical) (cd/m²) | 500 |
| DICOM Calibrated Luminance (Typical) (cd/m²) | 350 |
| | |
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| Luminance non-uniformity (per DIN6868- 157), diagnostic room class | <25% on 9 points, 10%/80% luminance |
| --- | --- |
| Response Time (typical) (ms) | 12 |
| Response Time (max) (ms) | 24 |
| Calibration Performance | |
| Supported color spaces | sRGB, DICOM, native |
| Average dE2000 deviation from sRGB | <2 on 6x6x6 grid |
| Maximum dE2000 deviation from sRGB | <5 on 6x6x6 grid |
| White point chromaticity stabilization | +/-0.01 u’v’ |
| Gray tracking (per IEC 62563) | +/-0.01 u’v’ |
| Grayscale transfer function deviation | <10% on 18 points |
| Calibration Software | MediCal QAWeb |
| Environmental Specifications | |
| Operational Temperature (min/max) (°C) | 10 / 40 |
| Within specification temperature (min/max) (°C) | 10 / 35 |
| Power Consumption (@ 100-240VAC typical) (W) | 120 |
2. Principles of Operation:
The MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) display is to be used to view scanned digital images of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue slides, using IVD-labeled whole slide imaging (WSI) systems, which are automated digital slide creation, management, viewing and analysis systems designed for scanning and digitizing surgical pathology slides prepared from FFPE tissues. The digitized images can then be displayed and reviewed on the MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) monitor for interpretation by pathologists for clinical purposes.
3. Modes of Operation:
Does the applicant’s device contain the ability to transmit data to a computer, webserver, or mobile device?
Yes _______ or No ☐ X
Does the applicant’s device transmit data to a computer, webserver, or mobile device using wireless transmission?
Yes _______ or No ☐ X
4. Specimen Identification:
The FFPE tissue specimen is identified on the scanned images by patient-specific barcodes and/or patient identifying information present on the glass slides.
5. Specimen Sampling and Handling:
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Specimen sampling, which includes FFPE tissues, is performed by clinicians. Biopsy specimens are processed by trained healthcare professionals.
6. Calibration:
The MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) display is calibrated using a built-in front sensor. Calibrations are initiated by the QAWeb quality assurance software and performed as a background activity.
7. Quality Control:
Image quality is checked by the user for acceptability. In addition, quality checks for the display are initiated by the QAWeb quality assurance software and performed as a background activity.
8. Software:
FDA has reviewed applicant’s Hazard Analysis and Software Development processes for this line of product types:
Yes ☐ X ☐ or No ☐
F. Regulatory Information:
1. Regulation section:
21 CFR 864.3700
2. Classification:
Class II (special controls)
3. Product code:
PZZ, Digital Pathology Display
4. Panel:
88 - Pathology
G. Intended Use:
1. Indication(s) for Use:
The Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) device is intended for in vitro diagnostic use to display digital images of histopathology slides acquired from IVD-labeled whole-slide
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imaging scanners that have been validated for use with this device, for review and interpretation by pathologists. The display is not intended for use with digital images from frozen section, cytology, or non-formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (non-FFPE) hematopathology specimens.
# 2. Special Conditions for Use Statement(s):
For in vitro diagnostic (IVD) use only
For prescription use only
# H. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate Device Name(s) and 510(k) numbers:
Philips IntelliSite Pathology Solution (PIPS) - PP27QHD display
K172174
2. Comparison with Predicate Device:
| Similarities | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Item | Device Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) | Predicate PIPS - PP27QHD |
| Dithering function | Temporal and spatial dithering is implemented in the medical display | Same |
| Supported color spaces | Supported color spaces including sRGB: - DICOM - Native | Same |
| Interface | Supported display interface including USB 2.0: DVI-D dual-link | Same |
| Differences | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Item | Device Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) | Predicate PIPS - PP27QHD |
| Intended Use | The Barco MMPC-4127F1 | The Philips IntelliSite |
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| Differences | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Item | Device Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) | Predicate PIPS - PP27QHD |
| | (PP27QHD) display device is intended for in vitro diagnostic use as an aid to the pathologist to review and interpret to display (or view) digital images of surgical pathology slides acquired from FDA-cleared IVD-labeled whole-slide imaging scanners that have been validated with this device, for review and interpretation by pathologists. as described in the user guide. The display is not intended for use with frozen section, cytology, or non-formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) hematopathology specimens. | Pathology Solution (PIPS) is an automated digital slide creation, viewing, and management system. The PIPS is intended for in vitro diagnostic use as an aid to the pathologist to review and interpret digital images of surgical pathology slides prepared from formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue. The PIPS is not intended for use with frozen section, cytology, or non-FFPE hematopathology specimens. The PIPS comprises the Image Management System (IMS), the Ultra Fast Scanner (UFS) and Display. The PIPS is for creation and viewing of digital images of scanned glass slides that would otherwise be appropriate for manual visualization by conventional light microscopy. It is the responsibility of a qualified pathologist to employ appropriate procedures and safeguards to assure the validity of the interpretation of images obtained using PIPS. |
| Configuration | Display only | PIPS system includes Ultra Fast Scanner (UFS), Image Management System (IMS) and Display (PP27QHD) |
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I. Special Control/Guidance Document Referenced:
FDA Guidance document: Technical Performance Assessment of Digital Pathology Whole Slide Imaging Devices. Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff. April 20, 2016.
ANSI/AAMI ES60601- 1:2005/(R)2012: Medical Electrical Equipment - Part 1: General Requirements For Basic Safety And Essential Performance (IEC 60601-1:2005, MOD)
AAMI ANSI IEC 62366-1:2015: Medical devices - Application of usability engineering to medical devices
ISO 14971 Second edition 2007-03-01(5-40) Medical devices - application of risk management to medical devices.
J. Performance Characteristics:
1. Analytical Performance:
a. Accuracy:
Not applicable
b. Precision/Reproducibility:
Not applicable
c. Linearity:
Not applicable
d. Carryover:
Not applicable
e. Interfering Substances:
Not applicable
2. Other Supportive Instrument Performance Data Not Covered Above:
Display Equivalency Study:
Technical performance testing for Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) display was performed. The new display was compared to the display that is part of the predicate device PIPS - PP27QHD (2.5). Testing included assessment of the following parameters:
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luminance, color, noise, resolution, pixel defects, artifacts, temporal response, grayscale, and specular and diffuse coefficients. All testing results demonstrated that the Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) display is equivalent to the predicate device display.
Luminance: The Barco MMPC-4127F1 (PP27QHD) and the predicate device use the same LCD panel. The luminance remains within the specified range of $350\mathrm{cd} / \mathrm{m}^2 \pm 10\%$, and the luminance stability is within approximately $0.4\%$.
Color: The color scale response when sRGB calibrated and the sRGB gamut are similar between the PP27QHD and the predicate device. The color stability over time is within the specified maximum deviation of 0.0050 in both x and y.
Noise: The PP27QHD and the predicate device use the same LCD panel and therefore the noise and the noise power spectrum are identical. The RMS (image variance) for multiple video levels of both luminance and color as measured on gray fields were the same.
Resolution: The MTF of the display system was measured according to the method described by Hans Roehrig et al. (2004) [Hans Roehrig, Jerry Gaskill, Jiahua Fan, Ananth Poolla, Chadwick Martin, "In-field evaluation of the modulation transfer function of electronic display devices", Proc. SPIE 5367, Medical Imaging 2004: Visualization, Image-Guided Procedures, and Display, (5 May 2004)]. The MTF of the camera system was approximately $98\%$ at the display's Nyquist frequency. The spatial resolution of the panel is 109 dpi (dots per inch).
Artifacts: The PP27QHD and the predicate are flat panel displays. There is no problem of impedance matching in a purely digital system, ringing and ghosting are not present. This is identical for the PP27QHD and the predicate device.
Temporal response: The PP27QHD and the predicate device use the same LCD panel and therefore the temporal response is identical. The response time is approximately 12 ms and the maximum response time is 24 ms.
Grayscale: There is no difference in greyscale behavior between the PP27QHD and the predicate device when calibrated to sRGB (default setting).
Specular and diffuse coefficients: The same LCD panel is used in both the predicate and the PP27QHD and therefore the specular and diffuse coefficients in functions of wavelength are identical.
K. Proposed Labeling:
The labeling is sufficient and it satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Parts 801 and 809, as applicable, and the special controls for this device type.
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L. Conclusion:
The submitted information in this premarket notification is complete and supports a substantial equivalence decision.
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Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.
