Siemens shifts ultrasound product

Siemens decided this month to consolidate manufacturing of ultrasoundscanners into its Quantum Medical Systems subsidiary in Issaquah,WA. Production of the Siemens SI 1200 cardiac scanner will bemoved from San Ramon, CA, and combined with manufacturing of theQuantum 2000 radiology system, said David Croniser, vice presidentof marketing for Quantum.

Siemens began to consolidate sales and marketing of the twoultrasound groups in June (SCAN 6/5/91). That process is stillunder way, Croniser told SCAN. The Quantum and Siemens names willbe maintained for the two ultrasound lines, he said.

An R&D and engineering facility will remain in San Ramon,along with supporting administrative and marketing staff, Cronisersaid.

Consolidation of manufacturing will enable Siemens to reapcost benefits from its acquisition of Quantum last year (SCAN4/11/90).

"It helps us achieve economies of scale in the businessand will provide some technology advantages in how we move thetwo products forward," he said.