The use of silicon-based microsystems for chemical analysis is one of the most promising concepts in the recent developments in micro system technology (MST). It is expected that chemical sensors will be increasingly integrated in so-called miniaturized total analysis systems (uTAS), a concept first presented by Ciba-Geigy. In such systems, all steps in a chemical determination, from sampling to detection and data treatment, are integrated in one miniature instrument. uTAS offer a variety of advantages over conventional analysis systems such as improved analytical performance, reduced reagent and power consumption, small size, possibility of new and more complicated functions, higher reliability and lower fabrication costs. Application of uTAS may be found in fields like process industry, environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, aeronautics, automotive industry, and more.

This book was originally published in 1980. Owing to the increasing use of electronic instrumentation in medical practice it was desirable that medical and nursing personnel have some technical knowledge of electronic equipment. It was the aim of this volume to help those members of the medical profession to develop this knowledge. The reader will find a survey of basic principles and methods, with illustrations of the applications in the most common fields of medical practice, for instance the registration of cardiac activity by means of the ECG. More complicated instrumental systems, such as those used for intensive care, are discussed in the light of the basic principles. These include acquaintance with three important concept in electricity: voltage, current and resistance.