The PMS comprises of the front-end data acquisition and processing subsystems, the user
interface with the display and the output devices, and the back-end data and network
interface subsystems. Under certain configuration, other components such as slave displays,
tickers, and alarm processing units can be part of the PMS.
Vendors make every effort to include standards in their system architecture. Inclusion
of standards at all levels of product design directly impacts scalability and post-implementation
support, as well as the ability of the monitors to interface to a CIS. Modular
design concepts are used to isolate functional blocks wherever possible. This can improve
system up times significantly, as it will be easier and quicker to identify and replace failed
modules in the field. Another important strategy is the use of off-the-shelf components
and modules in the overall architecture. This reduces cost and vendor dependencies for
parts and specialized peripherals. As a result of the adaptation of current standards and
practices from the computer industry, bedside monitors have become intelligent dataprocessing
and communicating systems—a far cry from the dedicated medical devices of
just a few years ago.