Frequently Asked Questions

— ORDERS & SHIPPING —

How long will it take for my order to ship?

Orders placed before 2:00 PM Pacific Time on business days ship the same day. If your order doesn't ship within 3 business days we will contact you to let you know why and give you the option of backordering or canceling.

Do you offer same-day shipping?

Yes. Orders placed before 2:00 PM Pacific Time on business days ship the same day via UPS or USPS. Standard delivery typically takes 2-5 business days. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship internationally. Please contact us to place your order. Be advised, international shipments may incur additional customs and brokerage fees that are the responsibility of the recipient.

Do I need to register to place an order?

No, you can check out anonymously. We do recommend creating an account for easy reordering and order history.

Can I pay by bank deposit?

We accept bank deposits from institutional clients with pre-approved credit. Contact us at sales@sensoronics.com to discuss account terms.

Do you offer bulk or volume pricing?

Yes. We offer volume discounts for hospitals, surgery centers, EMS agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Contact us at sales@sensoronics.com or call 877-677-0816 to discuss pricing. We also work with Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs).

— WARRANTY & RETURNS —

What is your warranty?

Every Sensoronics product carries a 12-month warranty. We will meet or exceed the warranty of the original manufacturer. If you find any sign of a defect, contact us and we will arrange an exchange or refund.

What is your return policy?

All of our products are guaranteed to work. If they don't, we will take them back with no questions asked and no restocking fees. Unused items must be received back within 30 days of purchase for a full refund excluding shipping fees.

— PRODUCT COMPATIBILITY —

How do I know if a sensor or cable will work with my patient monitor?

Every Sensoronics product page lists the specific OEM part numbers it replaces and the monitor models it is compatible with. Browse by manufacturer or product category, or search for your current OEM part number directly on our site. If you are unsure, contact us and we will help you find the right product.

Can I use a compatible sensor from one brand on a monitor from a different brand?

Not directly. SpO2 sensors use proprietary signal protocols — a Masimo sensor will not work on a Nellcor monitor and vice versa. However, some monitors accept multiple technologies via adapter cables. For example, Philips monitors can use either Philips-native or Nellcor-compatible sensors depending on which SpO2 adapter cable is connected.

Do I need an adapter cable with my SpO2 sensor?

It depends on your monitor. Some patient monitors have a direct sensor port, while others require a separate adapter cable between the sensor and the monitor. If your current setup uses an adapter cable, you will need one with any replacement sensor as well.

Can I mix compatible cables with OEM sensors?

Yes, in most cases. A compatible adapter cable will work with both OEM and compatible sensors of the same technology type. The key is that both the cable and sensor must use the same signal protocol — for example, both Nellcor OxiMax, or both Masimo SET.

What is the difference between the Nellcor DEC-4, DEC-8, DOC-10, and SCP-10 adapter cables?

These are different cable lengths and connector configurations for Nellcor-compatible monitors. DEC-4 is a 4-foot cable, DEC-8 is 8-foot, DOC-10 fits Medtronic/Covidien/Welch Allyn monitors, and SCP-10 fits Medtronic/Physio-Control/Stryker monitors. Check your monitor's user manual for the correct OEM part number.

Are your ECG cables compatible with both AAMI and IEC color coding standards?

We carry ECG cables in both AAMI (American) and IEC (European) color coding standards. AAMI uses White-Black-Red-Green-Brown and IEC uses Red-Yellow-Green-Brown-Black. Check the product description to confirm which standard each cable follows.

What is the difference between 3-lead, 5-lead, and 12-lead ECG cables?

3-lead provides basic rhythm monitoring and is most common in transport settings. 5-lead adds augmented limb leads and one precordial lead, which is standard for ICU and OR use. 12-lead provides a full diagnostic ECG with 6 precordial leads, used for cardiac diagnosis and STEMI detection.

How do I choose the right NIBP cuff size?

NIBP cuff sizing is based on limb circumference: Infant 10-19 cm, Pediatric 18-26 cm, Small Adult 20-28 cm, Adult 25-35 cm, Large Adult 33-47 cm, Thigh 46-66 cm. Using the wrong size produces inaccurate readings.

What is the difference between bayonet and luer NIBP fittings?

Bayonet fittings use a twist-lock connector and are most common in newer monitors. Luer fittings use a screw-type connector found in some older monitors. Check your current cuff-to-hose connection to determine which type your monitor uses.

— FDA CLEARANCE & QUALITY —

Are Sensoronics products FDA cleared?

Yes. Our compatible medical sensors and cables are FDA cleared as Class II medical devices through the 510(k) process. This is the same regulatory pathway used by original equipment manufacturers.

What is the difference between FDA cleared and FDA approved?

Medical devices are FDA cleared through the 510(k) process, which demonstrates substantial equivalence to a predicate device. FDA approved applies to pharmaceuticals, not devices. When shopping for medical sensors and cables, the correct term is FDA cleared.

What quality standards do Sensoronics products meet?

Sensoronics products are manufactured under ISO 13485 quality management systems, are FDA cleared as Class II medical devices, and carry CE marking for international compliance. Our manufacturing processes follow the same Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards required of OEM manufacturers.

Will using compatible sensors affect my facility's regulatory compliance?

No. FDA-cleared compatible sensors are legally marketed medical devices that meet the same safety and performance standards as OEM products. Using them does not affect Joint Commission accreditation, CMS compliance, or state health department requirements.

— OEM VS. COMPATIBLE —

What is the difference between an OEM sensor and a compatible sensor?

An OEM sensor is made by the same company that manufactured your patient monitor. A compatible sensor is made by a third-party manufacturer to the same specifications and produces clinically equivalent readings. The main difference is price: compatible sensors typically cost 40-70% less than OEM.

Are compatible sensors as accurate as OEM sensors?

Yes. FDA-cleared compatible sensors must demonstrate substantial equivalence to the OEM device they replace, meaning they produce the same measurements within the same accuracy specifications. Clinical studies used in the 510(k) clearance process verify this equivalence.

Will using a compatible sensor void my monitor's warranty?

No. Under federal law (the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act), a manufacturer cannot void your equipment warranty simply because you used a third-party accessory. They would need to prove the compatible accessory caused the specific damage.

Why are compatible sensors so much cheaper than OEM?

OEM pricing includes the cost of original R&D, brand licensing, exclusive distribution agreements, and large corporate overhead. Compatible manufacturers leverage existing proven designs and sell through more efficient channels. The savings come from the business model, not from cutting corners on materials or quality.

Do hospitals actually use compatible sensors?

Yes. Hospitals, surgery centers, EMS agencies, veterinary clinics, and long-term care facilities across the United States use compatible sensors daily. For high-volume consumables like disposable SpO2 sensors, the cost savings can represent thousands of dollars annually per facility.

— PRODUCT LIFESPAN & MAINTENANCE —

How long do reusable SpO2 sensors last?

With proper care, reusable SpO2 sensors typically last 12-18 months in a clinical setting with daily use. Sensoronics provides a 12-month warranty on all reusable sensors. Lifespan depends on frequency of use, cleaning practices, and handling.

How do I clean reusable SpO2 sensors and ECG cables?

Wipe with a soft cloth dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol or a hospital-grade surface disinfectant. Do not submerge in liquid, autoclave, or use harsh chemical sterilants unless the product is specifically rated for it. Disconnect from the monitor before cleaning and allow to air dry completely.

How often should medical oxygen sensors be replaced?

Medical oxygen sensors typically last 12-36 months depending on the model and usage. Signs that replacement is needed include inability to calibrate, slow response time, or readings that drift outside acceptable range.

What is the shelf life of an unopened oxygen sensor?

Sealed, unopened oxygen sensors typically have a shelf life of 12-24 months from the date of manufacture. The galvanic cell inside begins consuming its electrolyte once exposed to oxygen, so keeping it sealed until installation maximizes useful life.

How often should NIBP cuffs be replaced?

Reusable NIBP cuffs should be replaced when the bladder shows signs of cracking, the Velcro no longer holds securely, or readings become inconsistent despite proper sizing. With normal use, expect 12-24 months of service life.

Do your oxygen sensors require special certification for anesthesia machines?

Our medical oxygen sensors are designed as direct replacements for OEM sensors in ventilators and anesthesia machines. They use the same galvanic cell technology and produce the same output signal. Always follow your equipment manufacturer's calibration procedures after installing any new oxygen sensor.

Do your pulse oximeters require a prescription?

Our fingertip pulse oximeter is available without a prescription and is suitable for both clinical spot-checking and home use. For continuous monitoring in clinical settings, use a dedicated SpO2 sensor connected to a patient monitor.