DI 090220-230V : Airstar 2.0 Air stimulator, 230V

The caloric stimulator

The AirStar air caloric stimulator is a medical device manufactured in Belgium by Instrumentation Difra SA. The AirStar Caloric Stimulator is a device that delivers a flow of air into the ear canal at controlled rates and temperature, and is designed to control the vestibular function of the patient's body balance system. Vestibular stimulation of the semicircular canals produces involuntary eye movements. 

AirStar

The AirStar offers numerous possibilities for caloric testing: ease of use, high-precision temperature control. The handle features an otoscope head to which disposable ear-tips can be attached for easy hygiene management. The otoscope handle is also equipped with a magnifying glass and integrated light to inspect the ear canal and eardrum without interfering with stimulation. The AirStar is ideal when water cannot be used for stimulation (eardrum perforation,...) or when the examination room has no water inlet or outlet.

Temperature setting

The temperature is selected by a simple rotary switch, each of its four positions allowing a configurable preset temperature. Each temperature can be set up to 48°C in 0.2°C steps. Default values are 27°C, 30°C, 44°C and 47°C. The temperature is reached within 180 seconds of start-up, or from any other temperature. A large display shows the actual temperature.

Stimulation time setting

An internal chronometer allows you to select the stimulation duration using a second rotary knob. Five stimulation durations are available: 40, 60, 80, 100 and 120 seconds, simply by turning the switch. Visual and audible indications on the display help the examiner to perform the caloric test easily and accurately. During the stimulation period, the reaction period and fixation period will be delimited by these visual and audible indications.

Technical specifications

• Selectable power supply: 230V/50Hz

• Hot-air heat stimulator

• Minimum accessible temperature: 5°C above ambient temperature

• Maximum accessible temperature: 48°C

• Flow rate: fixed, from 10 to 13l/min, without speculum

• Stopwatch

• Dimensions: 310 x 345 x 115 mm (W x D x H)

AirStar complies with EN 60601-1 and European Directive 93/42/EEC and is certified by SGS Belgium NV, Notified Body 1639.

Version 1.2 - Oct. 2022