Microlife BP A6 PC Navigation Manual

Europe / Middle-East / Africa

Microlife AG
Espenstrasse 139
9443 Widnau / Switzerland
Tel. +41 / 71 727 70 30
Fax +41 / 71 727 70 39
Email [e-mail]
www.microlife.com

Asia

Microlife Corporation.
9F, 431, RuiGang Road, NeiHu
Taipei, 11492, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Email [e-mail]
www.microlife.com

North / Central / South America

Microlife USA, Inc.
1617 Gulf to Bay Blvd., 2nd Floor Ste A
Clearwater, FL 33755 / USA
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Email [e-mail]
www.microlife.com

Microlife BP A6 PC

EN  1
RU  10
KK  20

IB BP A6 PC KK-V3 3614

Microlife BP A6 PC BP A6 PC

Guarantee Card

Name of Purchaser / Ф.И.О. покупателя /

Сатып алушының аты-жөні

Serial Number / Серийный номер /

Сериялық нөмір

Date of Purchase / Дата покупки /

Сатып алған күні

Specialist Dealer / Специализированный
дилер /

Сатып алушының аты-жөні

Microlife BP A6 PC

1

START/STOP Button

2

Display

3

Cuff Socket

4

Mains Adapter Socket

5

Battery Compartment

6

Cuff

7

Cuff Connector

8

AFIB/MAM Switch

9

User Switch

AT

Time Button

AK

M-button (memory)

AL

- «Backward» Button

AM

+ «Forward» Button

AN

Lock Switch

AO

USB Port

Display

AP

Date/Time

AQ

Systolic Value

AR

Diastolic Value

AS

Pulse Rate

BT

Battery Display

BK

Traffic Light Display

BL

Stored Value

BM

Pulse Indicator

BN

Cuff Check Indicator

BO

Atrial Fibrillation Indicator (AFIB)

BP

AFIB/MAM Mode

BQ

Arm Movement Indicator

BR

User Indicator

BS

MAM Interval Time

Read the instructions carefully before using this device.

Type BF applied part

EN

Dear Customer,
Your new Microlife blood pressure monitor is a reliable medical
device for taking measurements on the upper arm. It is simple to
use, accurate and comes highly recommended for blood pressure
monitoring in your home. This device was developed in collabora­tion with physicians and clinical tests carried out prove its
measurement accuracy to be of a very high standard.*
Microlife AFIB detection is the world’s leading digital blood pres­sure measurement technology for the detection of atrial fibrillation
(AFIB) and hypertension. These are the two top risk factors of
getting a stroke or heart disease in the future. It is important to
detect AFIB and hypertension at an early stage, even though you
may not experience any symptoms. Appropriate treatment will
reduce your risk of suffering a stroke. For this reason, it is recom­mended that you visit your doctor when the device gives an AFIB
signal during your blood pressure measurement. The AFIB algo­rithm of Microlife has been clinically investigated by several prom­inent clinical investigators and showed that the device detects
patients with AFIB at a certainty of 97-100%.
Please read through these instructions carefully so that you under­stand all functions and safety information. We want you to be happy

Microlife

with your

product. If you have any questions, problems or
want to order spare parts please contact your local
Customer Service. Your dealer or pharmacy will be able to give you

Microlife

the address of the
the internet at

www.microlife.com

dealer in your country. Alternatively, visit

where you will find a wealth of
invaluable information on our products.
Stay healthy – Microlife AG!

* This device uses the same measuring technology as the award
winning «BP 3BTO-A» model tested according to the British
Hypertension Society (BHS) protocol.

1

Stergiou GS, Karpettas N, Protogerou A, Nasothimiou EG, &
Kyriakidis M. Diagnostic accuracy of a home blood pressure
monitor to detect atrial fibrillation. J Hum Hyperten 2009; 1-5.

2

Wiesel J, Fitzig L, Herschman Y, & Messineo FC Detection of
Atrial Fibrillation Using a Modified Microlife Blood Pressure
Monitor. Am J Hypertens 2009; 848-852.

1,2

Microlife

-

EN

1BP A6 PC

Table of Contents

1. Important Facts about Blood Pressure and Self-Measure­ment

• How do I evaluate my blood pressure?

2. Important Facts about Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB)

• What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB)?

• How does AFIB impact my family or me?

• Microlife AFIB detection provides a convenient way to

screen for AFIB (only in AFIB/MAM mode)

• Risk factors you can control

3. Using the Device for the First Time

• Inserting the batteries

• Setting the date and time

• Selecting the correct cuff

• Selecting the user

• Select the measuring mode: standard or AFIB/MAM mode

• AFIB/MAM mode (highly recommended)

4. Taking a Blood Pressure Measurement using this Device

• How not to store a reading

5. Appearance of the Atrial Fibrillation Indicator for early
Detection (only in AFIB/MAM mode)

6. Traffic Light Indicator in the Display

7. PC-Link Functions

• Installation and data transmission

8. Data Memory

• Viewing the stored values

• Memory full

• Clearing all values

9. Battery Indicator and Battery change

• Low battery

• Flat battery – replacement

• Which batteries and which procedure?

• Using rechargeable batteries

10. Using a Mains Adapter

11. Error Messages

12. Safety, Care, Accuracy Test and Disposal

• Safety and protection

• Device care

• Cleaning the cuff

• Accuracy test

• Disposal

2

13. Guarantee

14. Technical Specifications
Guarantee Card

1. Important Facts about Blood Pressure and Self­Measurement

• Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood flowing in the

arteries generated by the pumping of the heart. Two values, the
systolic (upper) value and the diastolic (lower) value, are
always measured.

• The device indicates the pulse rate (the number of times the

heart beats in a minute).

• Permanently high blood pressure values can damage your

health and must be treated by your doctor!

• Always discuss your values with your doctor and tell him/her if

you have noticed anything unusual or feel unsure. Never rely

on single blood pressure readings.

• There are several causes of excessively high blood pressure

values. Your doctor will explain them in more detail and offer

treatment where appropriate. Besides medication, weight loss
and exercise can also lower your blood pressure.

• Under no circumstances should you alter the dosages of

any drugs prescribed by your doctor!

• Depending on physical exertion and condition, blood pressure

is subject to wide fluctuations as the day progresses. You

should therefore take your measurements in the same
quiet conditions and when you feel relaxed! Take at least

two readings every time (in the morning and in the evening) and
average the measurements.

• It is quite normal for two measurements taken in quick succes-

sion to produce significantly different results. Therefore we
recommend using the MAM technology.

• Deviations between measurements taken by your doctor or in

the pharmacy and those taken at home are quite normal, as
these situations are completely different.

•

Several measurements

about your blood pressure than just one single measurement.
Therefore we recommend using the MAM technology.

• Leave a small break of at least 15 seconds between two

measurements.

• If you suffer from an irregular heartbeat, measurements taken

with this device should be evaluated with your doctor.

provide much more reliable information

• The pulse display is not suitable for checking the
frequency of heart pacemakers!

• If you are pregnant, you should monitor your blood pressure
very closely as it can change drastically during this time!

This monitor is specially tested for use in pregnancy and



pre-eclampsia. When you detect unusual high readings in
pregnancy, you should measure again after 4 hours. If the
reading is still too high, consult your doctor or gynecologist.

How do I evaluate my blood pressure?

Table for classifying home blood pressure values in adults in
accordance with the international Guidelines (ESH, AHA, JSH).
Data in mmHg.

Range Systolic Diastolic Recommendation

blood pressure too
low

1. blood pressure
optimum

2. blood pressure
elevated

3. blood pressure too
high

4. blood pressure
dangerously high

The higher value is the one that determines the evaluation.
Example: a blood pressure value of 140/80 mmHg or a value of
130/90 mmHg indicates «blood pressure too high».

 100  60 Consult your

100 - 130 60 - 80 Self-check

130 - 135 80 - 85 Self-check

135 - 160 85 - 100 Seek medical

160  100  Urgently seek

doctor

advice

medical advice!

2. Important Facts about Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB)

What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB)?

Normally, your heart contracts and relaxes to a regular beat.
Certain cells in your heart produce electrical signals that cause the
heart to contract and pump blood. Atrial fibrillation occurs when
rapid, disorganized electrical signals are present in the heart’s two
upper chambers, called the atria; causing them to contract irregu­larly (this is called fibrillation). Atrial fibrillation is the most common
form of heart arrhythmia or irregular heart beat. It often causes no
symptoms, yet it significantly increases your risk of stroke. You’ll
need a doctor to help you control the problem.

How does AFIB impact my family or me?

People with AFIB have a five-fold higher risk of getting stroke.
Since the chance of having a stroke increases with age, AFIB
screening is recommended for people over 65 years and older.

However, for people from the age of 50 years with high blood pres­sure (hypertension), diabetes, coronary heart failure or have had a
previous stroke AFIB screening is also recommended. Early diag­nosis of AFIB followed by adequate treatment can significantly
reduce the risk of getting stroke.
In young people AFIB screening is not recommended as it could
generate false positive results and unnecessary anxiety. In addi­tion, young individuals with AFIB have a relatively low risk of
getting stroke as compared to elder people.
For more information please visit our website: www.microlife.com.

Microlife AFIB detection provides a convenient way to screen for AFIB (only in AFIB/MAM mode)

Knowing your blood pressure and knowing whether you or your
family members have AFIB can help reduce the risk of stroke.
Microlife AFIB detection provides a convenient way to screen for
AFIB whilst taking your blood pressure.

Risk factors you can control

High blood pressure and AFIB are both considered «controllable»
risk factors for strokes. Knowing your blood pressure and knowing
whether you have AFIB is the first step in proactive stroke prevention.

3. Using the Device for the First Time

Inserting the batteries

Switch the lock switch AN to «unlock» position. The battery
compartment 5 is on the bottom of the device. Insert the batteries
(4 x 1.5 V, size AAA), thereby observing the indicated polarity.

Setting the date and time

1. After the new batteries are fitted, the year number flashes in the

display. You can set the year by pressing either the «+» AM or
the «-» AL button. To confirm and then set the month, press the
time button AT.

2. Press the «+» AM or the «-» AL button to set the month. Press
the time button AT to confirm and then set the day.

3. Follow the instructions above to set the day, hour and minutes.

4. Once you have set the minutes and pressed the time button, the
date and time are set and the time is displayed.

5. If you want to change the date and time, press and hold the time
button down for approx. 3 seconds until the year number starts
to flash. Now you can enter the new values as described above.

Selecting the correct cuff

Microlife offers different cuff sizes. Select the cuff size to match the
circumference of your upper arms (measured by close fitting in the
centre of the upper arm).

EN

3BP A6 PC

Cuff size for circumference of upper arm

S 17 - 22 cm
M 22 - 32 cm
M - L 22 - 42 cm
L 32 - 42 cm
L - XL 32 - 52 cm

Only use Microlife cuffs.





Contact your local Microlife Service if the enclosed cuff 6 does
not fit.



Connect the cuff to the device by inserting the cuff connector 7
into the cuff socket 3 as far as it will go.

Selecting the user

This device allows to store the results for 2 individual users.



Before each measurement, set the user switch 9 for the
intended user: user 1 or user 2.



User 1: slide the user switch 9 upwards to the user 1 icon.



User 2: slide the user switch 9 downwards to the user 2 icon.

The first person to measure should select user 1.



Select the measuring mode: standard or AFIB/MAM mode

This device enables you to select either standard (standard single
measurement) or AFIB/MAM mode (automatic triple measure­ment). To select standard mode, slide the AFIB/MAM switch 8 on
the side of the device downwards to position «1» and to select
AFIB/MAM mode, slide this switch upwards to position «3».

AFIB/MAM mode (highly recommended)

In

AFIB/MAM
succession and the result is then automatically analysed and
displayed. Because blood pressure constantly fluctuates, a result
determined in this way is more reliable than one produced by a single
measurement. AFIB detection is only activated in

• When you select the 3 measurements, the MAM-symbol BP

appears in the display.

•

The bottom, right hand section of the display shows a 1, 2 or 3 to
indicate which of the 3 measurements is currently being taken.

• There is a break of 15 seconds between the measurements

(15 seconds are adequate according to «Blood Pressure Moni­toring, 2001, 6:145-147» for oscillometric instruments). A count
down indicates the remaining time.

• The individual results are not displayed. Your blood pressure

will only be displayed after all 3 measurements are taken.

• Do not remove the cuff between measurements.

mode, 3 measurements are automatically taken in

AFIB/MAM

mode.

• If one of the individual measurements was questionable, a
fourth one is automatically taken.

4. Taking a Blood Pressure Measurement using this

Device

Checklist for taking a reliable measurement

1. Avoid activity, eating or smoking immediately before the
measurement.

2. Sit down for at least 5 minutes before the measurement and relax.

3. Always measure on the same arm (normally left). It is recom­mended that doctors perform double arm measurements on a
patients first visit in order to determine which arm to measure in
the future. The arm with the higher blood pressure should be
measured.

4. Remove close-fitting garments from the upper arm. To avoid
constriction, shirt sleeves should not be rolled up - they do not
interfere with the cuff if they are laid flat.

5. Always ensure that the correct cuff size is used (marking on the
cuff).

• Fit the cuff closely, but not too tight.

• Make sure that the cuff is positioned 2 cm above the elbow.

• The artery mark located on the cuff (ca. 3 cm long bar) must

lie over the artery which runs down the inner side of the arm.

• Support your arm so it is relaxed.

• Ensure that the cuff is at the same height as your heart.

6. Slide the lock switch AN down to the «unlock» position. Press
the START/STOP button 1 to start measuring.

7. The cuff will now pump up automatically. Relax, do not move
and do not tense your arm muscles until the measurement
result is displayed. Breathe normally and do not talk.

8. When the correct pressure is reached, the pumping stops and the
pressure falls gradually. If the required pressure was not reached,
the device will automatically pump some more air into the cuff.

9. During the measurement, the pulse indicator BM flashes in the
display.

10.The result, comprising the systolic AQ and the diastolic AR
blood pressure and the pulse rate AS is displayed. Note also the
explanations on further display symbols in this booklet.

11.When the device has finished measuring, remove the cuff.

12.Switch off the device. (The monitor does switch off automati­cally after approx. 1 min.).

4

How not to store a reading

As soon as the reading is displayed press and hold the START/
STOP button 1 until «M» BL is flashing. Confirm to delete the
reading by pressing the M-button AK.

You can stop the measurement at any time by pressing the



START/STOP button (e.g. if you feel uneasy or an
unpleasant pressure sensation).
If the systolic blood pressure is known to be very high,



it can be an advantage to set the pressure individually.
Press the START/STOP button after the monitor has been
pumped up to a level of approx. 30 mmHg (shown on the
display). Keep the button pressed until the pressure is
about 40 mmHg above the expected systolic value – then
release the button.

5. Appearance of the Atrial Fibrillation Indicator for early Detection (only in AFIB/MAM mode)

This device is able to detect atrial fibrillation (AFIB). This symbol BO
indicates that atrial fibrillation was detected during the measurement.
If the AFIB symbol appears after having performed a full blood pres­sure measurement episode (triplicate measurements), you are
advised to wait for one hour and perform another measurement
episode (triplicate measurements). If the AFIB symbol appears
again, then you are advised to visit your doctor. If after repeated
measurement the AFIB symbol is no longer displayed there is no
cause for concern. In such case it is recommended to measure again
the next day.

Information for the doctor on frequent appearance of the
atrial fibrillation indicator

This device is an oscillometric blood pressure monitor that also
analyses pulse irregularity during measurement. The device is
clinically tested.
The AFIB symbol is displayed after the measurement, if atrial
fibrillation occurred during measuring. If the AFIB symbol
appears after having performed a full blood pressure measure­ment episode (triplicate measurements), the patient is advised to
wait for one hour and perform another measurement episode
(triplicate measurements). If the AFIB symbol appears again, we
recommend the patient to seek medical advice.
The device does not replace a cardiac examination, but serves
to detect atrial fibrillation that often remains undiagnosed until
stroke occurs.

Keep the arm still during measuring to avoid false readings.



This device may not detect atrial fibrillation in people with



pacemakers or defibrillators.

6. Traffic Light Indicator in the Display

The bars on the left-hand edge of the traffic light display BK show
you the range within which the indicated blood pressure value lies.
Depending on the height of the bar, the readout value is either
within the optimum (green), elevated (yellow), too high (orange) or
dangerously high (red) range. The classification corresponds to
the 4 ranges in the table as defined by the international guidelines
(ESH, AHA, JSH), as described in «Section 1.».

7. PC-Link Functions

This device can be used in conjunction with a personal computer
(PC) running the Microlife Blood Pressure Analyser (BPA) software.
The memory data can be transferred to the PC by connecting the
monitor via a cable.
If no CD and cable is included download the BPA software from
www.microlife.com and use a USB cable with a Mini-B 5 pin
connector.

Installation and data transmission

1. Insert CD into the CD ROM drive of your PC. The installation
will start automatically. If not, please click on «SETUP.EXE».

2. Connect the monitor via the cable to the PC; there is no need to
switch the device on. 3 horizontal bars will appear on the
display and last for 3 seconds.

3. The bars will then flash to indicate that the connection between
PC and device is successful. As long as the cable is plugged in,
the bars will keep flashing and the buttons are disabled.

During the connection, the device is completely controlled



by the computer. Please refer to the «help» file for software
instructions.

8. Data Memory

This device automatically stores up to 99 measurement values for
each of the 2 users.

Viewing the stored values

Switch the lock switch AN to «unlock» position. Press the M-button AK
briefly. The display first shows «
device then switches to the last stored value.
Pressing the «+»
move from one stored value to another. Press the M-button again to
exit the memory mode.

AM

or the «-»AL button repeatedly enables you to

M» BL

and an average value. The

EN

5BP A6 PC

Memory full

Pay attention that the maximum memory capacity of 99



memories per user is not exceeded.

full, the oldest value is automatically overwritten with the
100th

value.

the memory capacity is reached – otherwise data will be lost.

Clearing all values

1. Firstly unlock the device AN, then select either 1 or 2 with the
user switch 9.

2. Hold down the M-button AK until «CL» appears and then release
the button.

3. Press the M-button while «CL» is flashing to permanently clear
all values of the selected user.

Cancel deletion:



is flashing.
Individual values cannot be cleared.



Values should be evaluated by a doctor before

press START/STOP button 1 while «CL»

When the 99 memory is

9. Battery Indicator and Battery change

Low battery

When the batteries are approximatel y ¾ empty the battery symbol BT
will flash as soon as the device is switched on (partly filled battery
displayed). Although the device will continue to measure reliably, you
should obtain replacement batteries.

Flat battery – replacement

When the batteries are flat, the battery symbol BT will flash as soon
as the device is switched on (flat battery displayed). You cannot
take any further measurements and must replace the batteries.

1. Open the battery compartment 5 on the bottom of the device.

2. Replace the batteries – ensure correct polarity as shown by the
symbols in the compartment.

3. To set date and time, follow the procedure described in
«Section 3.».

The memory retains all values although date and time must



be reset – the year number therefore flashes automatically
after the batteries are replaced.

Which batteries and which procedure?

Use 4 new, long-life 1.5 V, size AAA batteries.



Do not use batteries beyond their date of expiry.



Remove batteries if the device is not going to be used for a



prolonged period.

Using rechargeable batteries

You can also operate this device using rechargeable batteries.

Only use «NiMH» type reusable batteries.



Batteries must be removed and recharged when the flat



battery symbol appears. They should not remain inside the
device as they may become damaged (total discharge as a
result of low use of the device, even when switched off).
Always remove the rechargeable batteries if you do not



intend to use the device for a week or more.
Batteries cannot be charged in the blood pressure monitor.



Recharge batteries in an external charger and observe the
information regarding charging, care and durability.

10. Using a Mains Adapter

You can operate this device using the Microlife mains adapter
(DC 6V, 600 mA).

Only use the



accessory appropriate for your supply voltage.
Ensure that neither the mains adapter nor the cable are



damaged.

1. Plug the adapter cable into the mains adapter socket 4 in the

blood pressure monitor.

2. Plug the adapter plug into the wall socket.
When the mains adapter is connected, no battery current is
consumed.

Microlife

mains adapter available as an original

11. Error Messages

If an error occurs during the measurement, the measurement is
interrupted and an error message, e.g. «ERR 3», is displayed.

Error Description Potential cause and remedy

«ERR 1» Signal too

weak

«ERR 2»BQError signal During the measurement, error signals

«ERR 3»BNNo pressure

in the cuff

The pulse signals on the cuff are too
weak. Re-position the cuff and repeat the
measurement.*

were detected by the cuff, caused for
instance by movement or muscle
tension. Repeat the measurement,
keeping your arm still.

An adequate pressure cannot be gener­ated in the cuff. A leak may have
occurred. Check that the cuff is correctly
connected and is not too loose. Replace
the batteries if necessary. Repeat the
measurement.

6

Error Description Potential cause and remedy

«ERR 5» Abnormal

«ERR 6»AFIB/MAM

«HI» Pulse or cuff

«LO» Pulse too

* Please consult your doctor, if this or any other problem occurs
repeatedly.



result

Mode

pressure
too high

low

If you think the results are unusual, please read through the
information in «Section 1.» carefully.

The measuring signals are inaccurate
and no result can therefore be displayed.
Read through the checklist for
performing reliable measurements and
then repeat the measurement.*

There were too many errors during the
measurement in AFIB/MAM mode,
making it impossible to obtain a final
result. Read through the checklist for
performing reliable measurements and
then repeat the measurement.*

The pressure in the cuff is too high (over
300 mmHg) OR the pulse is too high
(over 200 beats per minute). Relax for 5
minutes and repeat the measurement.*

The pulse is too low (less than 40 beats
per minute). Repeat the measurement.*

12. Safety, Care, Accuracy Test and Disposal

Safety and protection



• This device may only be used for the purposes described in

these instructions. The manufacturer cannot be held liable for
damage caused by incorrect application.

• This device comprises sensitive components and must be

treated with caution. Observe the storage and operating condi­tions described in the «Technical Specifications» section.

• Protect it from:

- water and moisture

- extreme temperatures

- impact and dropping

- contamination and dust

- direct sunlight

- heat and cold

• The cuffs are sensitive and must be handled with care.

• Do not exchange or use any other kind of cuff or cuff connector

for measuring with this device.

• Only pump up the cuff once fitted.

• Do not use this device close to strong electromagnetic fields

such as mobile telephones or radio installations.

• Do not use this device if you think it is damaged or notice
anything unusual.

• Never open this device.

• If the device is not going to be used for a prolonged period the

batteries should be removed.

• Read the additional safety information provided within the indi­vidual sections of this instruction manual.

Ensure that children do not use this device unsupervised;
some parts are small enough to be swallowed.

Device care

Clean the device only with a soft, dry cloth.

Cleaning the cuff

Carefully remove spots on the cuff with a damp cloth and soapsuds.

WARNING: Do not wash the cuff in a washing machine or



dishwasher!

Accuracy test

We recommend this device is tested for accuracy every 2 years or
after mechanical impact (e.g. being dropped). Please contact your
local Microlife-Service to arrange the test (see foreword).

Disposal

Batteries and electronic devices must be disposed of in
accordance with the locally applicable regulations, not with
domestic waste.

13. Guarantee

This device is covered by a 5 year guarantee from the date of
purchase. The guarantee is valid only on presentation of the guar­antee card completed by the dealer (see back) confirming date of
purchase or the receipt.

• Batteries and parts that become worn with use are not included.

• Opening or altering the device invalidates the guarantee.

• The guarantee does not cover damage caused by improper

handling, discharged batteries, accidents or non-compliance
with the operating instructions.

•

The cuff has a functional guarantee (bladder tightness) for 2
years.

Please contact your local Microlife-Service (see foreword).

EN

7BP A6 PC