Hitachi debuts new ultrasound unit

Hitachi Medical Systems used the 1999 RSNA meeting to introduce Hitachi 6000, an ultrasound scanner equipped with 256-channel quad processing, 150 dB dynamic range, and wideband focusing. The scanner includes such technologies as tissue harmonic imaging, directional CFA, and artifact suppression algorithms.

The Windows NT-based unit can be used in a variety of applications, including radiology, ob/gyn, urology, and cardiology, and carries optional digital image management features for image capture, storage, and retrieval. Hitachi hopes to begin shipments in January or February, pending Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance. The Tarrytown, NY-based firm declined to provide pricing information on the work-in-progress scanner.