November 6, 1998

Terumo Releases Home-use MIMIPPI-Ace and Hospital-use MIMIPPI-H Ear Thermometers

Tokyo-based Terumo Corporation has announced a pair of ear thermometers, the MIMIPPI-Ace* for home use, and the MIMIPPI-H^* for hospital use.

The MIMIPPI-Ace and MIMIPPI-H ear thermometers incorporate a highly efficient sensor to detect the amount of infrared rays inside the ear, measuring body temperature in just one second. Both can be used for all ages, from infants through the elderly.

The MIMIPPI-Ace was preceded by the MIMIPPI (Terumo Ear Thermometer M10) for measuring infant body temperature. The MIMIPPI Ace, however, can be used for the entire family. Strong demand from health-care institutions for an ear thermometer also resulted in the introduction of MIMIPPI-H, designed for hospitals with features that include simple removal and replacement of the probe cover.

About one-third of the U.S. market for home use thermometers is of the infrared ear type (Terumo survey). This type is also expected to become more common in Japan.

Recommended retail price for MIMIPPI-Ace is 12,500 yen; for MIMIPPI-H, 13,500 yen. Sales target for the initial year have been set at 300,000 units.

*Product name: Terumo Ear Thermometer EM-20CP

Product features

1. Accurate measurement of body temperature in just one second
   Ideal for measuring the temperature of infants at home, quick measurement also reduces the workload of nurses in hospitals, and assists in emergency medical treatment when time is of the essence.
2. Palm size that's easy for measuring
   A soft shape and a design that fits in the palm of the hand makes it easy to carry and easy to use.

Measurement principle

Infrared rays are generated in areas of heat, and the amount of rays reflects temperature. Infrared rays are generated inside the ear, permitting measurement of body temperature by these rays.

Terumo ear thermometers detect infrared rays with a highly sensitive built-in sensor, allowing for instantaneous, accurate measurement of body temperature.