K193169 · Nelson Environmental Technologies, Inc. · MSY · Oct 29, 2020 · Gastroenterology, Urology
Device Facts
Record ID
K193169
Device Name
Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel
Applicant
Nelson Environmental Technologies, Inc.
Product Code
MSY · Gastroenterology, Urology
Decision Date
Oct 29, 2020
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 876.5665
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel is an instrument that is intended for use by hemodialysis professionals as an auxiliary device to provide continuous monitoring of Total chloramines plus ammoniated free chlorine) concentration. It is not intended to replace the primary method for monitoring total chlorine as part of the hemodialysis water treatment system. It functions completely independent of the water treatment system and does not come into direct contact with feed water used to prepare dialysate.
Device Story
The Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel is an auxiliary monitoring system for hemodialysis water treatment. It uses a polarographic sensor with a polymeric membrane to detect dissolved total chlorine (chloramines and ammoniated free chlorine) in water samples taken downstream of the secondary carbon filter. The system includes a master control enclosure, a probe/tester enclosure, and a remote module for the nurse's station. It operates via a microcontroller that triggers visual (red/yellow/green LEDs) and audible alarms when chlorine concentrations exceed a 0.10 mg/L set-point or if system faults (e.g., probe failure, power loss, flood detection) occur. The device uses a peristaltic pump for automated sample delivery. It provides continuous monitoring to alert clinicians to potential chlorine breakthrough, allowing for timely intervention to prevent patient exposure to contaminated water. It does not record chlorine values but provides binary status outputs for alarm conditions.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. No clinical data. Performance verified via linearity, precision, limit of blank/quantitation/detection, method comparison, peristaltic pump/tubing validation, free chlorine study, and 15-week calibration study.
Technological Characteristics
Polarographic sensor with polymeric membrane; peristaltic pump for sample delivery; PVC, stainless steel, and ABS plastic construction; 110-240 VAC power; backlit LCD display; continuous monitoring; non-networked; microcontroller-based; IEC 61010-1 and IEC 61326-1 compliant.
Indications for Use
Indicated for hemodialysis professionals to provide continuous monitoring of total chlorine (total chloramines plus ammoniated free chlorine) concentration in water treatment systems. Not for use as a primary monitoring method; does not contact feed water used for dialysate preparation.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A water purification system for hemodialysis is a device that is intended for use with a hemodialysis system and that is intended to remove organic and inorganic substances and microbial contaminants from water used to dilute dialysate concentrate to form dialysate. This generic type of device may include a water softener, sediment filter, carbon filter, and water distillation system.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The device, when it is a water purification subsystem disinfectant, is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 876.9.
Predicate Devices
Ultra Low Total Chlorine and E-Z Chek Sensitive Total Chlorine Test Strips (K090338)
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October 29, 2020
Nelson Environmental Technologies, Inc. QuocHuy (Huy) Nguyen New Product Development Manager/Finance Manager 813 E. Fir Avenue McAllen, TX 78501
Re: K193169
Trade/Device Name: Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel Regulation Number: 21 CFR§ 876.5665 Regulation Name: Water Purification System for Hemodialysis Regulatory Class: II Product Code: PSX, MSY, FIP Dated: September 28, 2020 Received: September 29, 2020
Dear QuocHuy (Huy) Nguyen:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. Although this letter refers to your product as a device, please be aware that some cleared products may instead be combination products. The 510(k) Premarket Notification Database located at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpmn/pmn.cfm identifies combination product submissions. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you, however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal
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statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803) for devices or postmarketing safety reporting (21 CFR 4, Subpart B) for combination products (see https://www.fda.gov/combination-products/guidance-regulatory-information/postmarketing-safety-reportingcombination-products); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820) for devices or current good manufacturing practices (21 CFR 4, Subpart A) for combination products; and, if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-safety/medical-device-reportingmdr-how-report-medical-device-problems.
For comprehensive regulatory information about medical devices and radiation-emitting products, including information about labeling regulations, please see Device Advice (https://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/device-advice-comprehensive-regulatory-assistance) and CDRH Learn (https://www.fda.gov/training-and-continuing-education/cdrh-learn). Additionally, you may contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE) to ask a question about a specific regulatory topic. See the DICE website (https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-advice-comprehensive-regulatoryassistance/contact-us-division-industry-and-consumer-education-dice) for more information or contact DICE by email (DICE@fda.hhs.gov) or phone (1-800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100).
Sincerely,
Carolyn Y. Neuland, Ph.D. Assistant Director DHT3A: Division of Renal, Gastrointestinal, Obesity and Transplant Devices OHT3: Office of GastroRenal, ObGyn, General Hospital and Urology Devices Office of Product Evaluation and Quality Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K193169
Device Name
Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel is an instrument that is intended for use by hemodialysis professionals as an auxiliary device to provide continuous monitoring of Total chloramines plus ammoniated free chlorine) concentration. It is not intended to replace the primary method for monitoring total chlorine as part of the hemodialysis water treatment system. It functions completely independent of the water treatment system and does not come into direct contact with feed water used to prepare dialysate.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| <div> <span> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) </span> </div> | <div> <span> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) </span> </div> |
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K193169 Page 6.1-1 of 6.1-20
## 6. 510(k) Summary
#### Nelson Environmental Technologies, Inc.
This 510(k) Summary is in conformance with 21CFR 807.92
| Submitter: | Nelson Environmental Technologies, Inc<br>813 E. Fir Avenue<br>McAllen, TX 78501<br>Phone: 956-618-0375 |
|------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Primary Contact: | QuocHuy (Huy) Nguyen<br>Email: admin@nws.bz<br>Phone: 956-618-0375 |
- Date Prepared: August 13, 2020
Device Name and Classification
| Trade Name/Device Name: | Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel |
|-------------------------|------------------------------------------------|
| Regulation Number: | 21 CFR 876.5665 |
| Regulation Name: | Water Purification System for Hemodialysis |
| Regulatory Class: | Class II |
| Classification Panel: | Gastroenterology/Urology |
| Product Code: | PSX, MSY, FIP |
Fax: 956-618-4330
Predicate Device:
| Trade Name | Ultra Low Total Chlorine (K100-0118) and E-Z Chek Sensitive Total Chlorine (K100-0106) Test Strips |
|---------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Name | Total Chlorine Test Strips |
| 510(k) Submitter / Holder | Reprocessing Products Corporation (RPC) |
| 510(k) Number | K090338 |
| Regulation Number | 21 CFR§ 876.5665 Water purification system for hemodialysis |
| Classification Panel | Gastroenterology/Urology |
| Product Code | MSY |
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#### Reference Device:
| Trade Name | | Hach CM130 Chlorine Monitor |
|---------------------------|--|----------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Name | | |
| 510(k) Submitter / Holder | | HACH Company |
| 510(k) Number | | K162471 |
| Regulation Number | | 21 CFR§ 876.5665 Water Purification System For<br>Hemodialysis |
| Classification Panel | | Gastroenterology/Urology |
| Product Code | | Primary Product Code PSX<br>Secondary Product Code FIP |
### Device Description
The Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel is a complete system that attaches to the drain of a hemodialysis water treatment system sample port. The Basic Chlorine Sentinel detects dissolved chlorine by an auxiliary meter detection technology, self-monitors for maintenance-required conditions, loss of electrical power, as well as two other system conditions such as flooding and the status of RO shutdown alarm. The device chlorine monitoring probe is preferably placed after the second carbon filter, before the RO machine or at the beginning of the patient water treatment loop.
The device has three components - a lockable master control enclosure, a lockable probe/tester enclosure, and the remote module installed in the patient area.
A chlorine concentration equal to or above the set-point (default: 0.10mg/L) will activate the buzzers and the red CHLORINE alarm indicators for as long as the condition exists. The buzzers can only be muted for 3 minutes (then automatically reset) for as long as the condition exists. The yellow AUTO-TEST OK/CL DETECTED indication will latch. The AUTO-TEST/CL DETECTED indication can be deactivated after the event by pressing the blue RESET PUSHBUTTON on the front cover of the controller.
A probe failure or the activation of one of the auxiliary input relays will activate the yellow MAINTENANCE needed indicators as well as the Buzzers which will remain activated as long as the condition exists. However, the buzzers can be muted by the key mute switch while the maintenance issue is being resolved.
#### Indications for Use
The Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel is an instrument that is intended for use by hemodialysis professionals as an auxiliary device to provide continuous monitoring of Total Chlorine. (i.e. total chloramines plus ammoniated free chlorine) concentration. It is not intended to replace the primary method for monitoring total chlorine as part of the hemodialysis water
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treatment system. It functions completely independent of the water treatment system and does not come into direct contact with feed water used to prepare dialysate.
#### Risk Analysis Method
Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel was assessed to determine risks to health associated with the use of the device, a risk analysis was conducted in accordance with ISO 14971: 2007, Medical devices - Application of risk management to medical devices.
#### Substantial Equivalence
The table below provides a detailed comparison of Nelson Sentinel Series Basic Chlorine Sentinel to the predicate and reference devices.
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## Detailed Comparison of the Subject and Predicate Devices
| ltem | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Intended<br>Use/Indications<br>for Use | The Nelson Sentinel<br>Series Basic Chlorine<br>Sentinel is an instrument<br>that is intended for use<br>by hemodialysis<br>professionals as an<br>auxiliary device to<br>provide continuous<br>monitoring of Total<br>Chlorine. (i.e. total<br>chloramines plus<br>ammoniated free<br>chlorine) concentration. It<br>is not intended to replace<br>the primary method for<br>monitoring total chlorine<br>as part of the<br>hemodialysis water<br>treatment system. It<br>functions completely<br>independent of the water<br>treatment system and<br>does not come into direct<br>contact with feed water<br>used to prepare<br>dialysate. | The Reprocessing<br>Product Corporation<br>(RPC) Total Chlorine<br>Test Strips are indicated<br>for detection of Free<br>Chlorine and Total<br>Chlorine in water. These<br>Test Strips are indicated<br>for testing water used to<br>prepare dialysate (Free<br>Chlorine and<br>Chloramines) and for<br>testing rinse water<br>following dialysis<br>equipment disinfection<br>(Free Chlorine). | N/A; Nelson Sentinel<br>Series Basic Chlorine<br>Sentinel is compared to<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chk Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips for Intended Use<br>and Indications For Use. | The Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel<br>intended use / indications<br>for use is identical to the<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine and<br>E-Z Chek Sensitive Total<br>Chlorine Test Strips<br>intended use and<br>indications for use, related<br>to the detection of Total<br>Chlorine in Water and<br>testing water used to<br>prepare dialysate. |
| Item | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Provides Exact<br>Chlorine Value? | No; Intended to indicate<br>chlorine above set-point<br>only | No; Indicates an<br>approximate, semi-<br>quantitative value based<br>on the colorimetric<br>method, which can be<br>used to confirm if<br>chlorine is above a<br>specific value | Yes; presents an exact<br>chlorine value on its<br>display intended to be<br>used to make clinical<br>decisions | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>equivalent to UltraLow Total<br>Chlorine and E-Z Chek<br>Sensitive Total Chlorine<br>Test Strips. |
| Detection<br>Chemistry/<br>Technology | Direct measuring<br>polarographic sensor<br>utilizing a special<br>polymeric membrane. | N/A | DPD Colorimetric<br>Method | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel<br>uses a different detection<br>technology from Hach<br>CM130 Chlorine Monitor.<br>The difference in detection<br>technology does not affect<br>the intended use or the<br>safety of the device. |
| Chlorine Sensor<br>Type | Polarographic sensor | N/A | Photometric sensor | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel<br>uses a different sensor from<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor.<br>The difference in sensor<br>type does not affect the<br>intended use or the safety of<br>the device. |
| ltem | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Reagents | Ammonium sulfate | N/A | Indicator solution (DPD<br>indicator with potassium<br>iodide), buffer solution | The reagents used by<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel and<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor are different.<br>The difference in reagents<br>used does not affect the<br>intended use or safety and<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| Reagent<br>Delivery | Peristaltic pump | N/A | Peristaltic pump | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Type of<br>Chlorine<br>Detected | Total Chlorine (free<br>chlorine plus total<br>chloramines) | N/A | Total Chlorine (free<br>chlorine plus total<br>chloramines) | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| ltem | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Detection<br>Range | 0.05 mg/L Cl2- 0.15<br>mg/L Cl2 | N/A | 0.03 mg/L Cl2- 0.20<br>mg/L Cl2 | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>able to detect a wider range<br>of chlorine levels than Hach<br>CM130 Chlorine Monitor.<br>This difference in detection<br>range does not affect the<br>intended use or safety and<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| Allowable<br>Chlorine Level | 0.1 mg/L Cl2 | N/A | 0.1 mg/L Cl2 | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Sampling | The chlorine sensor is<br>located on the<br>downstream side of a<br>water treatment test<br>sample port. The<br>sampled water is then<br>discharged down the<br>drain. | N/A | Feed water is sampled.<br>Water that flows into the<br>CM130 device exits the<br>device to a drain. The<br>water samples, once<br>tested, are also<br>discarded to a drain. | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>equivalent to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Water Sample<br>Conditioning<br>and Delivery | Automated | N/A | Automated | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| ltem | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Measurement<br>Interval | Continuous | N/A | 5 minutes | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel has<br>a higher measurement<br>interval than Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor.<br>This difference in<br>measurement interval does<br>not affect the safety or<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| Alarms/ Alerts | Controller: Three colors<br>(green for power<br>indication, and yellow<br>and red for alerts) and a<br>buzzer<br>Remote Module: Three<br>colors (green for power<br>indication, yellow and red<br>for alerts) and a buzzer | N/A | Analyzer: Two colors<br>(amber and red) on the<br>display and three<br>sounds for notifications.<br>Remote Indicator: Two<br>lights show the analyzer<br>status (blue, amber, or<br>red). Two lights show<br>the chlorine status (blue,<br>amber, or red). Three<br>different sounds:<br>hardware alarm,<br>medium-high chlorine<br>alert, and high chlorine<br>alarm. | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>equivalent to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor.<br>Differences in light colors<br>and types of sounds do not<br>affect the intended use or<br>safety and effectiveness of<br>the device. |
| ltem | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Measurement<br>Point | After the secondary<br>carbon filter, before the<br>reverse osmosis (RO)<br>machine. | N/A | Between the primary<br>and secondary carbon<br>tanks (filters). | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>different from Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor.<br>This difference in<br>measurement point does<br>not affect the intended use<br>or the safety and<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| Device<br>Location | Remote Module is<br>located in the nurse's<br>station: all other<br>components are located<br>in the water room | N/A | Remote indicator is<br>located in the patient<br>room; all other<br>components are located<br>in the water room | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>equivalent to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Remote<br>Indicator | Yes | N/A | Yes | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Enclosure to<br>protect<br>electronics<br>from splashing<br>or spills | Yes | N/A | Yes | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Item | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Water<br>Treatment? | No | N/A | No | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Device<br>Components | Controller, Probe/Tester,<br>Remote Module | N/A | Analyzer, Remote<br>Indicator | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>equivalent to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor.<br>This difference in device<br>components does not affect<br>the intended use or safety<br>and effectiveness of the<br>device. |
| Control<br>Mechanism | Microcontroller | N/A | Microcontroller | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>identical to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor. |
| Maintenance | Quarterly | N/A | Monthly | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel<br>requires less frequent<br>maintenance than Hach CM<br>130 Chlorine Monitor. The<br>difference in maintenance<br>interval does not affect the<br>intended use or safety and<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| ltem | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| Data Logger | No data logger. | N/A | 3000 measurements<br>maximum | Data logging features are<br>not available for Nelson<br>Sentinel Series Basic<br>Chlorine Sentinel. This<br>difference does not affect<br>the intended use or safety<br>and effectiveness of the<br>device. |
| Status Outputs | Five water treatment<br>status outputs:<br>(1) Continuous<br>auxiliary monitoring of<br>Total Chlorine (i.e. total<br>chloramines plus<br>ammoniated free<br>chlorine) concentration<br>(this is not to be<br>confused with primary<br>or secondary testing<br>for chlorine. The<br>device display is for<br>calibration function<br>only and is not to be<br>used for accurate<br>chlorine concentration<br>readings. The device | N/A | High chlorine | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel<br>provides additional status<br>outputs from the Hach<br>CM130 Chlorine Monitor.<br>This difference does not<br>affect the intended use or<br>safety and effectiveness of<br>the device. |
| Item | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| | does not record usable<br>chlorine concentration<br>values, it only<br>compares the actual<br>concentration to the<br>set-point). When the<br>concentration equals<br>or exceeds the pre-set<br>set-point, the<br>notification output is<br>activated. Notification<br>closes Output Relay<br>#1;<br>(2) Loss of system or<br>facility mains electrical<br>power. Default Output<br>Relay #2;<br>(3) Aux#1 Input<br>(recommended for the<br>status of flood<br>detection monitors), (it<br>does not control any<br>equipment).<br>Notification closes<br>Output Relay #3;<br>(4) Aux #2 Input<br>(recommended for the | | | |
| Item | Subject Device<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel | Predicate Device<br>UltraLow Total Chlorine<br>and E-Z Chek Sensitive<br>Total Chlorine Test<br>Strips | Reference Device<br>Hach CM130 Chlorine<br>Monitor | Comparison |
| | status of flood<br>detection monitors), (it<br>does not control any<br>equipment) Notification<br>closes Output Relay #4<br>(5) Self-diagnostic<br>system failures or<br>maintenance required. | | | |
| Display | Backlit LCD: 1.91 cm<br>(0.75 in.)high 4-digit<br>main display, 0.76 cm<br>(0.3 in.) 5x7 dot matrix<br>12-digit secondary<br>display | N/A | 10.9 cm (4.3 in.) color<br>display, backlit LCD<br>WQVGA | Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine Sentinel is<br>equivalent to Hach CM130<br>Chlorine Monitor, with the<br>only difference being that<br>Nelson Sentinel Series<br>Basic Chlorine has a<br>smaller screen than Hach<br>CM130 Chlorine Monitor.<br>This difference in screen<br>size does not affect safety<br>or effectiveness of the<br>device. |
| Power<br>Requirement…
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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.
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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.