Frequently Asked Questions

This section provides basic information on NOVA instrumentation. Please contact us if any general questions are not addressed below. Also, refer to the instrumentation manuals for detailed explanations about the products.

What is the difference between the NOVA DPM 9003 and the Penguin System?
How do the instruments work?
How easy is it to use?
What is the major advantage of using NOVA instrumentation?
What other features make the NOVA instrumentation unique?

What is the difference between the NOVA DPM 9003 and the Penguin system?

Both instruments provide impedance measurements of the skin. The Penguin also provides a skin temperature reading and force compensation. Temperature is a useful feature to have in the evaluation of burns, pressure ulcers and other wound healing applications. Force compensation adjusts for the different pressures that people may use when applying the sensor probe to the skin. The Penguin stores all collected data internally and be uploaded to a PC wirelessly via IrDA, making it a truly portable system.

The NOVA DPM 9003 has interchangeable probes that are sometimes necessary for specialized applications. In order to collect continuous data, it must be connected to a laptop or personal computer.

How do the instruments work?

A small sensor (4 - 8mm diameter) is placed on the surface of the skin to take a reading. Measurements are recorded for later evaluation. After the desired number of readings, raw data may be displayed in tabular or graphical form for review and further analysis.

How easy is it to use?

Very easy. The DPM is engineered with the end-user in mind and only requires a short training time. Both the instrument and software manuals follow step-by-step, user-friendly procedures.

What is the major advantage of using NOVA instrumentation?

Both the DPM 9003 and the Penguin system are very powerful and versatile for their size. They both use advanced digital microprocessing technology to ensure greater sensitivity, reproducibility, and accuracy in data collection. This means a cost effective method for product development and research.

What other features make the NOVA instrumentation unique?

Portability. The Penguin is a hand-held, wireless system that stores all data internally until it is uploaded on a PC. The DPM 9003 is also portable, whether used with or without a desktop or laptop computer.

Safety. NOVA instrumentation is battery operated. There is no threat of AC current surges from an outlet.

Digital design. NOVA's digital design allows for excellent site-to-site and instrument-to-instrument reproducibility.

General Troubleshooting

This section includes the most common problems and their suggested solutions. If your concern is not listed below, please read the corresponding instruction manual thoroughly or contact us.

I have a LOWBAT indicator on my DPM 9003.
I am receiving strange readings/I am not receiving readings.
I am unable to register the XPRT/Penguin software.

I have a LOWBAT indicator on my DPM 9003.

Check the +/- alignment of batteries in the back on the unit. Also the batteries may need to be changed.

I am receiving strange readings/ I am not receiving any readings

Change the batteries. If problem still persists, contact the NOVA office for further assistance.

Never attempt instrument repair yourself as each instrument must be tested through a calibration verification sequence. NOVA will not support any instrument or data from an instrument that has been opened or repaired by non-NOVA technicians.

FAQs

General Troubleshooting