Exergen TAT-2000C/Original
Quick Start Instructions
Your thermometer is the home version of the professional TemporalScanner
used in thousands of hospitals and doctors’ offices, and is used the same
way as doctors and nurses use the professional model. As a
technologically advanced instrument it must be used correctly. Please
follow the instructions below and read the user manual carefully.
Installing the Battery
1. Locate the battery compartment at the back of the thermometer.
2. Face the top of the thermometer toward you and place your thumb on
the ridges.
3. Press down firmly and slide the cover away from you, toward the bottom
of the thermometer.
4. Insert a 9-volt battery with the positive (small) terminal on the right.
5. Slide the battery compartment cover back into place.
Taking a Temperatur e
1. Remove protective cap.
2. Hold thermometer so that thumb or index finger is positioned over the
SCAN button (DO NOT depress until step four).
3. Place the probe flush (flat) on the center of forehead.
4. Press and hold the SCAN button.
5. Lightly slide thermometer either left or right from the center of forehead
to the hairline, keeping the sensor flat and in contact with the skin for
the entire scan
(2-3 seconds).
You will hear beeping and a red light will flash during the scan.
This is normal, indicating that a measurement is taking place.
6. Release the SCAN button and remove the thermometer from head once
you reach hairline.
7. Read the temperature on display.
If perspiration is present on forehead:
1. Press and hold the SCAN button.
2. Place the probe on the neck just behind the ear lobe.
3. Release the SCAN button and remove the thermometer to get a reading.
When Not in Use
1. Thermometer will shut off automatically after 30 seconds.
2. To turn off immediately, press and release the SCAN button
quickly.
Always replace the cap to protect the sensor when not in use.
To Scan: Depress the button. The
instrument will continually scan for the
highest temperature (peak) as long as the
button is depressed.
: Beep and LED flashing indicate
a rise to a higher temperature, similar to a
radar detector. Slow beeping indicates that
the instrument is still scanning, but not
finding any higher temperatures.
The reading will remain on the
30 seconds after the button is
To Restart: Depress the button
to restart. It is not necessary to wait until
the display is clear, the thermometer will
immediately begin a new scan each time
the button is depressed.
Your TemporalScanner can display the temperature in either °F
or °C, as indicated by the small °
or °C in the upper right of
the display. The original factory setting is °
. If you wish to
change it to °
, follow the steps below:
1. Take a temperature. While the temperature is displayed, tap
the button three times rapidly. A flashing
will appear. This indicates that the mode has
changed to °
.
2. Take a new temperature. You will see that it is displaying in
the °
mode, and the small upper right indication is °C.
3. To change from the °C mode to the °F mode, repeat steps
1 and 2.
Scanning the Temporal Artery (TA)
W
hat you should know before sc a nni n g the TA: Measure only the side of
the head exposed to the environment. Anything covering the area to be
measured (hair, hat, wig, bandages) would insulate the area, resulting in
falsely high readings. Slide the thermometer straight across the forehead, not
down the side of the face. Midline on the forehead, the TA is about a
millimeter below the skin, whereas at the side of the face, the TA is much
deeper, and measuring there would result in falsely low readings. When
taking the temperature behind t he ear (if there is perspiration on the
forehead), first push away any hair, exposing the area. Then, tuck the
thermometer on the neck below the ear lobe, in the soft conical depression,
(the place where perfume might be applied). Wait about 60 seconds before
measuring the same person again to avoid excessive cooling of the skin. An
infant is frequently swaddled in blankets and clothing covering the neck
area. Unless visibly sweaty, one measurement at the TA area is typically all
that is required. Should you feel the temperature is low, then push aside any
clothing or blankets covering the neck area for ~30 seconds or so, and repeat
the measurement on the neck behind the ear. Factors that ma y affect
measurement accuracy: The patented Arterial Heat Balance (AHB)
technology in your TemporalScanner actually makes two separate
measurements (1) the temperature of the skin over the temporal artery, and
(2) the temperature of the room. To determine the most accurate reading, it
measures both temperatures some 1000 times a second as you sweep the
TemporalScanner across the forehead. The AHB system then calculates how
much the blood has cooled down during its journey from the heart to the skin
over the temporal artery and makes allowance for this in the temperature it
displays. The result is a highly accurate reading - delivered extremely fast and
with no discomfort.
Familiarize Yourself with the Instrument
Clinical studies, multiple
language videos, & user
manuals:
medical@exergen.com
1-800-422-3006
Frequently Asked Questions
Why take temper ature measurements at the skin s urface over the temporal artery?
The best place to measure temperature is the center of the heart, but this can be done only under
a doctor’s supervision. Doctors know that measurement of the blood temperature in a major
artery accurately reflects true body temperature. The TemporalScanner Thermometer is designed
to measure the temperature of the skin surface over the temporal artery, a major artery of the
head. The temporal artery is connected to the heart via the carotid artery, directly leading from
the aorta, the main trunk of the arterial system. It offers constant blood flow. It is the only such
artery positioned close enough to the skin surface to provide the access needed to take an
accurate measurement. It is easy to use because it is ideally located at the front portion of the
forehead. The TemporalScanner is easier and gentler to use than other types of measurement
devices such as oral, rectal, underarm and in-ear thermometers because it is truly non-invasive.
What is the correct technique?
When you use the TemporalScanner, make sure to start with a blank screen, then keeping the
button depressed, touch the center of the forehead and scan horizontally in a straight line over to
the hairline, before releasing the button. Do not curve down to the temple or you could miss the
important part of the temporal artery which is up in the forehead and naturally trapped between
the skin and the skull, so is never too deep. At the temple, the artery can go deep, even on an
infant, and will not provide the correct temperature.
Why am I getting low readings?
Smudgy/dirty lens:
T
he most common reason for low readings is a smudgy/dirty lens. To resolve, an alcohol
dampened Q-tip should be twirled directly on the lens every 2-3 weeks. Like a camera or
eyeglasses, the TemporalScanner uses optical technology. In the case of the scanner, the
infrared sensor (which is behind the lens) must “see” the heat in order to measure it. If you have
had the TemporalScanner a little while, it might just need a lens cleaning Make sure you use a
Q-tip or generic cotton tipped stick applicator, not a twisted paper towel or tissue. Following the
alcohol cleaning, let the scanner recover from the coldness of the alcohol for about 5 minutes
before using it again.
The little lens should be cleaned as follows below:
Use an alcohol dampened Q-T
ip (it has to be a Q-Tip or other cotton tipped stick applicator for
the leverage required, and not a twisted paper towel, gauze pad, or tissue).
1. Dampen the Q-Tip with either an alcohol prep/swab, or dip the Q-Tip in a little alcohol, but do
not use the alcohol prep/swab to clean the lens as it will not provide the leverage needed.
2. Twirl the Q-Tip directly on the little lens deep in the center of the
probehead.
3. This preventive maintenance should be routinely done (every few
weeks).
4. Following the alcohol cleaning, wait about five minutes to let the
infrared sensor behind the little lens recover from the coldness of the alcohol cleaning.
Sweat will cause low temperature readings: If the individual is sweaty, the effect of evaporative
cooling on the forehead will result in low temperatures when using the scanner. However, sweat
is a sign the fever has broken
and, as a result, the temperature is rapidly falling back to normal. If sweaty,
wait until the forehead has dried before taking a temperature. Wiping the
forehead will not work. However, when the individual is just beginning to
sweat, taking the temperature in the little soft depression on the neck just
below the earlobe will work since we sweat last on the neck. But if both
forehead and neck are wet/moist, wait until the sweating has subsided before
taking a temp.
Why do the readings differ from rectal temperature? Unlike rectal temperature, the
TemporalScanner identifies a change in temperature immediately, since it is measuring the heat
from the blood coming directly from the heart (a true core temperature). Even on an infant, when
temperature is changing, it can take 60-90 minutes for rectal temperature to identify the change,
and considerably longer on older children and adults.
Why am I getting a high reading?
The TemporalScanner is measuring a core temperature. Like a rectal temperature, temperature
taken with the TemporalScanner, on average, will be about a degree Fahrenheit higher than an
oral temperature. With the exception of an infant up to about 6 months, the TemporalScanner, on
average, will be about two degrees higher than an axillary (under the arm) temperature.
Temperature on an infant up to about 6 months will be about the same as an axillary and rectal
temperature as the infant’s body temperature is close to being uniform regardless of where the
temperature is taken.
Should I believe my hand or the T emporalScanner? Touching the forehead is just not an
accurate method (although we all do it). Many studies have proven that the hand (or a kiss on
the forehead) will be correct 98% of the time when there is no fever, but wrong half of the time
when the individual actually has a fever. The reason is that body heat is released or retained to
keep our body temperature in the normal range. This contributes to the erroneous assessment
as felt by the hand or lips. The core body temperature stays normal by the release of heat (like
opening the windows when the house is too hot) or by retention of the heat (closing the windows
when the house is too cold).
Why do I get a different reading with each scan?
Multiple scans in rapid succession will change the temperature of the skin and result in variability
of the readings. It is important to wait a full minute before repeating the scan to allow the skin
over the temporal artery to recover from the cooler temperature of the probehead. The
probehead is at room temperature and about 30 degrees lower than body temperature.
Are there environmental effects?
As part of its Arterial Heat Balance system, the TemporalScanner measures the temperature
of the surrounding environment. For this measurement to be accurate, it needs to have become
acclimatized to the temperature of the room in which it is to be used. If it is taken from a cold
room into a hot room, or vice versa, allow it to acclimate for at least 30 minutes before using it.
Avoid holding the TemporalScanner by the head, as it will mistake the temperature of your hand
for that of the room.
Clinical Accuracy: Meets ASTM E1965-98 and EN60601-1 standards for electronic
and radiation thermometers to the extent applicable to thermometers which measure
the surface of the skin over the temporal artery. EMI/RFI Protection: Error message
displayed. Calibration Protection: Error message displayed. Temperature Range:
15.5 to 42°C (60 to 107.6°F). Operating Environment: 15.5 to 40°C (60 to 104°F).
Resolution: 0.1°C or °F. Respon se Ti m e: Approximately 0.04 second. Time
Displayed on Screen: 30 seconds before automatic shutdown. Battery Life:
Approximately 1000-5000 readings depending on 9V battery type. Size: 7.0 in x 1.75 in
x 1.25 in (17.8 cm x 4.45 cm x 3.18 cm). Weight: 4.5 oz (130 grams) including battery.
Display Type: High contrast LCD. Const ruction Method: Impact resistant casing,
hermetically sealed sensing system. Storage R ange: -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C).
Laboratory Error : ASTM laboratory accuracy requirements in the display range of 37°
to 39°C (98 to102°F) for IR thermometers is +/-0.2°C(+/-0.4°F) whereas for mercuryin-glass and electronic thermometers, the requirement per ASTM standards E667-86
and E1112 is +/-0.1°C (+/-0.2°F). Full responsibility for this product meeting applicable
portions of this standard is assumed by Exergen Corporation, Watertown, MA 02472.
Patents: Listed at www.exergen.com/patents.
A f
lickering Scn on display is visible during measurement. At completion,
releasing the button will display and lock temperature on the screen for 30
seconds.
The target temperature measured is higher than 107.6°F(42°C).
T
he target temperature measured is lower than 60°F(15.5°C).
T
emperature of the thermometer is higher than 104°F(40°C). Let the
instrument acclimatize for about 30 minutes in a cooler area in which it
will be used.
The temperature of the thermometer is lower than 60°F(15.5°C). Let
instrument acclimatize for about 30 minutes in a warmer area in which it
will be used.
EMI/RFI (like static on a radio) protection is preventing a temperature
from being taken. Wait a minute and you should be able to proceed. If
not, reset by removing and replacing the battery. Be sure battery is tightly
connected. Call Customer Service if error message reappears.
Blinking battery icon with temperature displayed: battery is low but will still
operate correctly. Replace soon.
Blinking battery icon with 2 dashes: not enough energy in the battery to
measure correct temperature. Replace battery.
T
he TemporalScanner is an optical instrument. Like a camera or eyeglasses,
a dirty lens will distort the view. If the thermometer is unable to see the heat
clearly, it will be unable to measure it accurately, resulting in low readings.
Probe lens and cone should be shiny clean. If not, wipe the silver cone with a
small cloth moistened with alcohol. Lens should be cleaned with an alcohol
dampened Q-tip. Hold upside-down to prevent excess moisture from entering
the sensor area. It will not harm the sensor, but if it becomes too wet, you will
be unable to take a temperature until it dries.
T
hermometer case can be cleaned with a clean cloth with alcohol. Avoid
gritty, abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the thermometer.
D
o not hold the TemporalScanner under the faucet or submerge in water. It is
not water-proof.
Exergen Corporation warrants each new Exergen TemporalScanner 2000C/Original
against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of three years from the date of
purchase, and agrees to repair or replace any defective product without charge.
IMPORTANT: This warranty does not cover damage resulting from accident, misuse or
abuse, lack of reasonable care, the affixing of any attachment not provided with the
product or loss of parts or subjecting the product to any but the specified battery.* Use
of unauthorized replacement parts will void this warranty. Exergen Corporation will not
pay for warranty service performed by a non-authorized repair service and will not
reimburse the customer for damage resulting from warranty service performed by a nonauthorized repair service. No responsibility is assumed for any special, incidental or
consequential damages. For warranty service, call Exergen Corporation Customer
Service, 800-422-3006 or email RMA@exergen.com for a Return Material Authorization
number (RMA). Then send the product, postage or shipping prepaid, to Exergen in
accordance with the instructions given with the RMA number. NOTE: No other warranty,
written or verbal, is authorized by Exergen Corporation. This warranty gives you specific
legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. Some
states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so
the above exclusion and limitations may not apply to you.*Read enclosed instructions
carefully.
EX
ERGEN Corporation
400 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472 USA
Tel 617-923-9900 Fax 617-923-9911 medical@exergen.com
www.exergen.com
818355 Rev 1
Invented, desi gned, assembled,
tested, and packaged in the USA
Clinical studies, multiple
language videos,
& user manuals:
exergen.com/s
Temporalscanner.com
medical@exergen.com
1-800-422-3006