BioLab system was designed for biosignal measurements in laboratory and experimental clinics. It consists of a set of intelligent sensors that are connected over the Ethernet network to a host PC working as a controlling and data processing unit. Each sensor contains specific measuring module for conditioning of signals from particular biophysical experiment and a controlling module based on Analog Devices ADμC812 microcontroller.

BioLab ATR (Achilles Tendom Reflex) device is intended for measurement and evaluation of the Achilles tendon reflex time intervals. The examination enables to assess the functional state of he thyroid gland of the patient using peripheral indicators from the neuromuscular system. It is based on the fact that thyroid gland hormones affect besides others also the function of the neuromuscular system. By measuring time of contraction (TK), time of relaxation (TR) and time of half relaxation (TH) it is possible to deduce about normal thyroid gland function, about hypo- or hyperfunction. It is also possible to estimate the overall thyroxine T4 level. The examination is nontraumatizing, simple and financially advantageous and offers enough information for screening and diagnostics.

The ATR signal represents the deflection of the sole after mechanical stimulation of the Achilles tendon by a neurological hammer. Movement of the sole during the reflex is sensed by an optoelectronic system. Infrared radiation from the transmitter working in pulse mode is reflected from the sole and the amplitude of the senesed signal is function of the immediate distance between the sole and the sensor. Start of the measurement is synchronized with the hammer stimulus by a built in accelerometer. The ATR signal is processed, digitized and then transmitted to the host PC where it is recorded, monitored on display and thereafter automatically evaluated and archived for protocol printouts. 

Controlling module of the BioLab ATR device is built around an ADµC812 microcontroller with necessary interface. To connect the sensor to the modular system over the Ethernet network, a RS232C to TCP/IP converter is used. To guarantee safety of the patient, BioLab ATR module is galvanically separated from the Ethernet network by optical isolation. The module is powered by a Li-ion cell that allows several hours of uninterrupted operation. In practical applications, intelligent power management allows working time of the cell up to tens of days. The module can by operated also during the battery charging from the power line 230V / 50 Hz, eventually even from the power line (without using the Li-ion cell).