Ultra-low-power semiconductors for wireless vital signs early warning systems

Most patients in hospital have measurements of their `vital signs` taken and recorded only intermittently, thus deterioration can occur to a point of serious consequence before it is recognised. New technologies are being developed which allow increased surveillance of patients` status without the inconvenience of being physically attached to immobile monitoring systems, and thus allowing patients to move around their rooms and floor areas. The implementation of a small, low-cost, ultra-low-power and disposable vital signs monitor is described, made possible by the development of a semiconductor SoC - Sensium - which implements all of the required electronic functionality in a few square millimetres of silicon.