March 13, 2009 - Medical testing meets medical texting with the FDA’s clearance of GE Healthcare’s latest ECG (electrocardiogram) solution, the portable MAC 800, which is based on cell phone technology.
Originally developed and introduced in China in 2008, the lightweight portable device combines the keypad of a phone with a full-size color display and diagnostic software. MAC 800 has the features of a full size, 65-pound ECG device, engineered down to under seven pounds, battery included. The unit’s integrated carrying handle enables clinicians to carry it like a briefcase, expanding access to care, regardless of patient location. Its lithium ion battery keeps it running for roughly two hours. The batteries take four hours to recharge.
The technology is designed to help remotely diagnosis patients ECG’s faster and more efficiently.
MAC 800 helps with connectivity through its multiple communication options, including LAN, modem, SD card and serial port to store and send ECG data from any location. Additionally, MAC 800 offers the option of a PDF or XML output for universally recognized storing and data sharing. The MAC 800 also connects seamlessly to a variety of vendors’ EMR solutions via Cardiosoft, GE’s cardiology information software system, creating a fully digital ECG workflow.
MAC 800 will launch to the U.S. primary care market during the second quarter of 2009 and will show at the upcoming Scientific Sessions of the American College of Cardiology March 29-31 in Orlando, FL.
For more information: www.gehealthcare.com.
October 09, 2025 
