What is RadarFind RTLS?

RadarFind's Real-Time Location System (RTLS) is a technology that combines hardware, software and services to accurately track and display the location of any tagged device or patient throughout the hospital. This information is also stored as historical information and can be analyzed later to better understand utilization, movement patterns and workflow.

What makes the RadarFind solution unique?

RadarFind's RTLS blends patent pending ISM band technologies into a system that is customized for each hospital environment. The RadarFind RTLS is easy and non-invasive to install because it does not require the addition of disruptive hardwiring or costly WiFi APs (access points) to your existing hospital network. Also, since it does not require or interfere with wireless (WiFi) networks, the security or stability of your existing data network is not threatened. RadarFind further offers four-tier system architecture, unique in the industry. Using an idealized mix of tags, readers, and other system components, the same RadarFind system design can easily scale from the smallest rural outpatient care facility to the largest urban critical-care hospitals.

What hardware is needed for RadarFind's RTLS system?

You will require tags for tracking devices and patients, readers (interrogators), collectors (1 or 2 per hospital floor), and 1-2 servers depending upon the size and configuration of your hospital. RadarFind hardware includes small battery-powered tags that can be attached to equipment or worn by patients, readers that communicate with tags, and collectors placed in network closets, electrical closets or other unobtrusive locations. There is generally one server, which includes the RadarFind Software Suite.

What makes the RadarFind technology unique?

Installing a RadarFind RTLS is non-disruptive to hospital operations and provides an extremely accurate system that automatically adapts to changing environmental variables. It is this changing environment that so easily disrupts WiFi and typical radio-frequency systems. The RadarFind Status Asset Tags are unique to the industry by conveying real-time and archived status information. For example, if our status tag is placed on an infusion pump, not only is location data provided but the system knows when a device is in use, available or needs to be cleaned. The RadarFind tags are intrinsically safe, permitting safe operation in oxygen-rich environments, and are tamper-resistant. The RadarFind RTLS has bidirectional tag communication facilitating positional accuracy and transmission of data. Our graphical user interfaces provide not only applications for complex analysis and reporting of data, but also extremely user-friendly touch screen appliances important for rapid pace, high acuity areas and areas where the staff is less comfortable using computers in the workplace.

How long do the tags last?

RadarFind Status and Non-Status Asset tags have an industry-leading lifespan of at least 6 years, while the RadarFind miniature tag, designed for very small assets, is designed with a replaceable 24-month battery, for nearly unlimited use.

What software is provided?

The RadarFind software suite includes the RadarFind database, location engine and reporting software. This suite collects and stores data in an open source database. It also calculates and stores the locations of device or patient-associated tags, manages real-time and historical data, and provides web-based applications that include comprehensive reports and alerts. It is accessed by secure web-enabled computers or handheld devices anywhere in the hospital. This system is ANSI HL7 compliant, therefore meeting standards for interoperability, and is HIPAA compliant, meeting privacy and security standards. The site license is for an unlimited number of users.

Can RadarFind integrate with other software applications?

Yes, RadarFind RTLS is highly interoperable. The open source database information is shared via XML Web Services APIs, by simple import/export configurations and HL7 compatible messaging.

How do I search for a person or a piece of equipment?

The RadarFind RTLS interface is available from any web enabled computer or hand held device within the hospital that has secure network privileges. Simply click the RadarFind icon and search for tagged equipment or people. QuickView and MapView are easy intuitive interfaces that display the location and status of requested items or individuals. No client software is required. ReportView provides comprehensive real-time and historical data analysis. The suite supports toggling between presentation views. DashView is a unique interface for busy executives and managers that allows users to monitor selected parameters either graphically or by alerts.

Can I search for a particular person or by equipment make or model?

Yes. Every tag placed uniquely identifies the person, or equipment to which it is attached.

How often is location information updated?

RadarFind RTLS position calculations are customizable, based on the needs of the facility. The location of the tagged person or asset can be updated several times a minute, or every few minutes, as needed.

Who does the actual installation and how long does it take?

RadarFind prefers hospitals install the Asset Tags, Plug-in Readers and Collectors with training and oversight from RadarFind. The hidden costs of patient care disruption do not exist with RadarFind RTLS. Installation of readers can be done with the patient in the room. Collectors plug into Ethernet ports on each floor or zone.