The reproducibility of interpretation of 10 computer ECG systems by means of a microprocessor-based ECG signal generator.

The use of computer ECG systems has become widespread in Japan, and many new models are available. In order to provide a method for comparative evaluation, a microprocessor-based ECG signal generator was built. This generator was used to compare 10 of the computer ECG systems which are currently available in Japan. Since the generator can produce a precisely defined wave form, it is particularly suited for testing the reproducibility of diagnostic interpretation. Several deficiencies of some current ECG analysis systems were noted. Specifically in three systems, there was interference of the interpretation of morphology with the interpretation of rhythm when WPW-like patterns were analyzed. The current evaluation concentrates on the reproducibility of interpretation in the tested systems. As the library of test ECG patterns is expanded in the future, the technique will also become applicable to the evaluation of diagnostic accuracy.