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Abstract

A communication system includes self-test means for automatically testing its performance. The communication system is adapted for use between an implantable device, such as a pacemaker, and an external device, such as the pacemaker's programmer. The communication system includes in the external device a transmitter circuit for transmitting an output signal through an antenna, and a receiver circuit for receiving an input signal through an antenna. A driver circuit controls the operation of the transmitter circuit. A microprocessor, connected to the driver circuit, controls the information content and timing of the transmitted output signal. A bandpass filter and AM demodulator process the input signal received through the receiver circuit. A multiplexer selectively allows one of a plurality of status signals from throughout the communication system within the external device, including the demodulated signal obtained from the AM demodulator, to be connected to the microprocessor. The self-test means includes means for having the microprocessor generate a test signal that is selectively injected into the transmitter circuit and/or the bandpass filter. The self-test means further includes a switch that selectively allows, as controlled by the microprocessor, either the output signal from the bandpass filter, or the output signal from the transmitter circuit, to be connected to the input of the AM demodulator. In this manner, the injected test signal, or the effects of the injected test signal, may be coupled back to the microprocessor via one of the status signals. The microprocessor then checks the status signals to ensure that a desired performance criteria is achieved. Individual tests may be selectively performed, or a prescribed sequence of several tests may be automatically performed.

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First Claim