Optimising Tympanometry Workflow with Sanibel MPT-II and Able AP1300 Thermal Printers
When using Amplivox Otowave tympanometers, efficient documentation requires the right thermal printer or an IrDA port PC adapter for PC printing. This blog examines two recommended thermal options: the Sanibel MPT-II and the Able AP1300, to help audiology professionals choose the best fit for their clinical needs.
| Key Takeaways | Details |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Both printers are pre-configured for use with Amplivox Otowave tympanometers. |
| Connectivity | Sanibel MPT-II supports infrared (IrDA), Bluetooth, and RS-232. The Able AP1300 supports RS-232 cable but lacks infrared and Bluetooth. |
| Tympanometer Compatibility | Amplivox Otowave 102-1 and 102-4 rely on RS-232 for the Able AP1300 due to the lack of Bluetooth support in the tympanometers. |
| Portability | Sanibel MPT-II is lightweight and ideal for mobile clinicians. |
| Battery Life | Able AP1300 offers extended battery life, supporting high-demand clinical environments. |
Sanibel MPT-II Thermal Printer
The Sanibel MPT-II provides excellent portability and broad connectivity options. Its support for infrared communication makes it particularly well-suited for use with the Amplivox Otowave 102-1 and Amplivox Otowave 102-4 tympanometers, which rely on IrDA for wireless printing.
Features:
- Resolution: 203 dpi for sharp graphics and text.
- Paper Roll: 57mm wide, 40mm maximum diameter.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, infrared (IrDA), and RS-232.
- Battery: 1500mAh lithium-ion, delivering extended usage.
The Sanibel MPT-II is an excellent choice for audiology practices requiring wireless infrared printing, ensuring compatibility with the tympanometers’ built-in IrDA port.
Able AP1300 Thermal Printer
The Able AP1300 offers durability and energy efficiency, making it a solid option for high-volume testing environments. It relies on the RS-232 interface for compatibility (no IrDA) with the Amplivox Otowave 102-1 and Amplivox Otowave 102-4 tympanometers.
Features:
- Resolution: 203 dpi for high-quality output.
- Paper Roll: 57mm wide, 36mm maximum diameter.
- Connectivity: Serial RS-232 cable
- Battery Life: Supports up to 100 metres of printing or up to 30 days on standby.
Clinicians opting for the Able AP1300 should ensure they have a compatible RS-232 cable to establish a direct connection with the tympanometer.
| Feature | Sanibel MPT-II | Able AP1300 | 102-C Docking Station |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Otowave 102-1, 102-4 (via IrDA or RS-232) | Otowave 102-1, 102-4, 102-C (via RS-232) | Otowave 102-C (via USB for PC printing) |
| Connectivity | Infrared (IrDA), Bluetooth, RS-232 | RS-232 | USB |
| Portability | Highly portable and lightweight | Compact but slightly heavier | Stationary, requires PC |
| Battery Life | 1500mAh, moderate use | Up to 30 days standby, 100meters of printing | Requires external power via PC |
| Infrared (IrDA) Support | Yes | No | No |
| RS-232 Compatibility | Yes | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Support | Yes | No | No |
| PC Printing Support | No | No | Yes |
Choosing the Right Printer
Both printers are pre-configured to work seamlessly with Amplivox Otowave 102-1 and 102-4 tympanometers. The decision depends on your clinical setup:
- Choose the Sanibel MPT-II if you require infrared connectivity or prioritise portability.
- Opt for the Able AP1300 for long battery life and RS-232 compatibility in high-demand settings.
- You can choose either the Sanibel MPT-II or the Able AP1300 if for some reason you need to use a thermal printer via the docking station of the Amplivox Otowave 102-C. This connection is facilitated through the device's docking station, which provides the necessary RS-232 port for direct communication with the printer.
Conclusion
The Otowave 102-1 and 102-4 tympanometers are designed for portability and quick, onsite diagnostic assessments. Integrating thermal printers like the Sanibel MPT-II or Able AP1300 enhances their usability by enabling clinicians to print results directly at the point of care, eliminating the need for additional devices.
Unlike the Otowave 102-C, which typically relies on conventional PC printers for generating reports, the 102-1 and 102-4 are optimised for real-time, standalone operation. While the 102-C remains compatible with these thermal printers, its usual integration with a PC-based workflow makes direct thermal printing less critical.
In contrast, for the 102-1 and 102-4, thermal printers streamline the process, offering immediate printouts for patient discussions, handwritten annotations, and record-keeping, even in settings without PC access. This independence significantly enhances workflow efficiency in mobile or remote environments.
The Hearing Lab Store offers a wide range of other services and products designed to support your clinical practice. Explore our Store for more products, explore our ready made microsuction equipment packages to find what's best for your needs, or consider our Microsuction Training and Tinnitus Training programs to enhance your skills. We also provide free digital forms in our Tinnitus Tool Kit, a Find a Locum Service, and Free Online Earwax Removal Patient Consent Forms.
Author: Paul Nand
Paul is a registered hearing aid audiologist and proud co-founder of Liverpool Hearing Centre. With years of experience in the field and an innovative and committed approach to the audiology industry has also led him to co-founding The Hearing Lab Store, the UK's leading supplier of microsuction and audiology essentials.
