K963644 · Aspect Medical Systems, Inc. · OLW · Oct 8, 1996 · Neurology
Device Facts
Record ID
K963644
Device Name
A-1000 EEG MONITOR AND A-1050 EEG MONITOR
Applicant
Aspect Medical Systems, Inc.
Product Code
OLW · Neurology
Decision Date
Oct 8, 1996
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 882.1400
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The Aspect EEG Monitors with BIS are intended to monitor the state of the brain by data acquisition of EEG signals in the intensive care unit, operating room and for clinical research. The Bispectral Index (BIS), a processed EEG variable, may be used as an aid in monitoring the effects of certain anesthetic agents.
Device Story
Microprocessor-based EEG monitors (A-1000, A-1050) acquire/display real-time EEG waveforms via 4-channel digital signal converters (DSCs). System processes raw EEG using digital signal processing (Fast Fourier Transform) to extract features; computes parameters including Bispectral Index (BIS), Compressed Spectral Array (CSA), Density Spectral Array (DSA), Suppression Ratio (SR), Spectral Edge Frequency (SEF), and Signal Quality Index (SQI). Used in OR, ICU, and research by clinicians. Monitor displays real-time waveforms and trend plots of processed parameters. BIS output aids clinicians in monitoring anesthetic agent effects, potentially facilitating faster emergence and improved recovery. Hardware includes monitor, DSC, cables, electrodes, and optional printer.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data provided in the summary document; references a study (Glass et al.) regarding BIS monitoring and anesthetic recovery.
Technological Characteristics
Microprocessor-based; PC-based CPU with IPU and FPU digital signal processing subsystems. Electrically isolated, low-noise, high-gain amplifiers (DSCs). Supports up to 4-channel EEG (bipolar/referential). Conforms to UL 544, CSA 22.2 no. 125, IEC 601-1, and IEC 801-2,3,4,5. Connectivity via monitor interface cable.
Indications for Use
Indicated for monitoring brain state via EEG signal acquisition in ICU, OR, and clinical research settings; BIS parameter used as an aid in monitoring effects of certain anesthetic agents.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An electroencephalograph is a device used to measure and record the electrical activity of the patient's brain obtained by placing two or more electrodes on the head.
Reference Devices
Glass P, Payne F, Rosow C, Sebel P, Manberg P. Bispectral Index (BIS) Monitoring Allows Faster Emergence and Improved Recovery From Propofol/Alfentanil/N2O Anesthesia
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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K963644
OCT - 8 1996
VI 510(k) Summary
## Description
The Aspect Medical Systems, Inc. EEG Monitors, Models A-1000 and A-1050 with the processed parameter BIS, (hereafter referred to as the Aspect EEG Monitors with BIS) are microprocessor-based, up to 4 channel EEG monitors designed for use in the OR, ICU and for clinical research.
They acquire and display real-time EEG waveforms, as well as process the real time EEG data using digital signal processing techniques including the Fast Fourier Transform technique, and display the processed EEG data in several different formats. The purpose of processing the EEG waveform data is to extract characteristic features from the complex signal in order to provide easier pattern recognition of changes over time during the recording.
The system configuration includes a monitor, digital signal converter (DSC), optional printer, cables and electrodes.
The EEG Monitors with BIS conform to UL 544, CSA 22.2 no. 125 Risk Class 3, IEC 601-1. They also meet electromagnetic interference specifications outlined in IEC 801-2,3,4,5.
The Aspect EEG Monitors with BIS consist of two main components:
1) Monitor
2) Digital Signal Converter (DSC) - 4 channel maximum
A-1000 - 2,4 channel DSC
A-1050 - up to 2 channel DSC
## Monitors
The monitors are microprocessor-based, and provide signal processing and display capabilities, displaying up to 4 channels of real time (i.e. "raw") EEG data as well as computing and displaying processed EEG parameters (examples of some processed parameters are listed below). They also display trend plots of processed EEG parameters in real time.
The front panel is configured with a large display screen, an index display board composed of a numeric index display and an alphanumeric index label display. There are a number of soft and hard keys, such as Set-up, Print, Alarm Limits, Trend, EEG, CSA+, DSA+, Review and Event.
The monitors contain the processors for processing the EEG data, calculating the variables and displaying the waveforms and variables.
The monitors consists of a PC-based CPU, an IPU and an FPU. The latter two are Digital Signal Processing subsystems for EEG processing.
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10-04-1996 4:36PM FROM ASPECT MEDICAL SYTMS 508 653 6788 P. 3
## DSCs
The Digital Signal Converters (DSCs) are electrically isolated, low noise, high gain amplifiers that also filter and digitize up to four (4) channels of EEG waveform data in either a bipolar or referential montage.
An overcurrent detector circuit monitors current to the DSCs. If the current exceeds the expected value, the power is shut off to the DSCs by the hardware, and the IPU is notified.
The DSCs are connected to the monitor by a flexible monitor interface cable.
## Processed Parameters
There are a number of processed parameters which include the following:
Compressed Spectral Array (CSA), Density Spectral Array (DSA), Suppression Ratio(SR), Spectral Edge Frequency (SEF), Signal Quality Index (SQI) and the Bispectral Index (BIS).
## Indications for Use
The Aspect EEG Monitors with BIS are intended to monitor the state of the brain by data acquisition of EEG signals in the intensive care unit, operating room and for clinical research.
The Bispectral Index (BIS), a processed EEG variable, may be used as an aid in monitoring the effects of certain anesthetic agents.
## Reference:
Glass P, Payne F, Rosow C, Sebel P, Manberg P. Bispectral Index (BIS) Monitoring Allows Faster Emergence and Improved Recovery From Propofol/Alfentanil/N2O Anesthesia. In preparation for Anesthesiology.
2nd page of S10k
Summary
13
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Avenue
Document Control Room –WO66-G609
Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
Ms. M. Christine Morgida
Manager, Regulatory Affairs
Aspect Medical Systems, Inc.
2 Vision Drive
Natick, Massachusetts 01760-2059
APR - 9 2012
Re: K963644
Trade/Device Name: EEG Monitor, Models A-1000™ and A-1050™
Regulation Number: 21 CFR 882.1400
Regulation Name: Electroencephalograph
Regulatory Class: II
Product Code: OLW, OMC, ORT, OLT
Dated (Date on orig SE ltr): September 11, 1996
Received (Date on orig SE ltr): September 12, 1996
Dear Ms. M. Morgida:
This letter corrects our substantially equivalent letter of October 8, 1996.
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. 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.
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Page 2 - Ms. M. Christine Morgida
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 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 (reporting of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please go to http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/CDRH/CDRHOffices/ucm115809.htm for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health’s (CDRH’s) Office of Compliance. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH’s Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
Kesia Alexander
Malvina B. Eydelman, M.D.
Director
Division of Ophthalmic, Neurological, and Ear, Nose and Throat Devices
Office of Device Evaluation
Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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k963644
## III INDICATIONS FOR USE
The Aspect EEG Monitors with BIS are intended to monitor the state of the brain by data acquisition of EEG signals in the intensive care unit, operating room and for clinical research.
The Bispectral Index (BIS), a processed EEG variable, may be used as an aid in monitoring the effects of certain anesthetic agents.
## Reference:
Glass P, Payne F, Rosow C, Sebel P, Manberg P. Bispectral Index (BIS) Monitoring Allows Faster Emergence and Improved Recovery From Propofol/Alfentanil/N2O Anesthesia. In preparation for Anesthesiology.
Richard N. Phillips
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Cardiovascular, Respiratory, and Neurological Devices
510(k) Number K963644
3
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.