This guide provides clinicians with the necessary steps to effectively use the Firefly DE500 Otoscope and Dermatoscope during a session, ensuring clear imaging and smooth operation.
Requirements
Before using the Otoscope and Dermatoscope in a session, ensure you have completed the initial setup and that the devices are connected to your computer. For first-time setup, refer to the 'Test and manage devices (pre-session)' guide.
You will need the following materials:
Firefly DE500 Otoscope
Firefly DE500 Dermatoscope
Computer with the VCE™ web app open and ready
Note: The Firefly DE500 Otoscope comes with 15 single-use earpieces. To order additional earpieces, visit ES100 Otoscope Specula and contact Firefly’s sales team.
Step-by-step guide for use during sessions
Step 1: Connect the Otoscope/Dermatoscope
Plug in the devices
Use the provided USB cables to connect the Otoscope and Dermatoscope to your computer. Ensure the cables are securely connected to the USB port on your computer.Power on the devices
The devices automatically power on when connected to your computer. Check for any indicator lights to confirm they are powered.
Step 2: Launch the VCE™ platform and test the devices before the session
Open the VCE platform on your computer
Ensure that your software is up to date to avoid any compatibility issues.Navigate to the device manager
Go to the device manager within the VCE platform to confirm that the Otoscope and Dermatoscope are recognised and ready for use.Select the device to test
In the device manager, select either the Otoscope or Dermatoscope to test the video feed and functionality.Check the video feed
Ensure that the video feed is clear and that the devices are capturing images correctly. Adjust the focus or lighting if necessary.
Step 3: Using the devices during a session
Start the session
Begin your VCE session and make sure the Otoscope and Dermatoscope are selected as the active devices for streaming.Switch between devices
If using both the Otoscope and Dermatoscope, you can switch between them in the device manager to show different views to the participants.Interact with the participants
Encourage students to ask questions or request specific views as you use the devices. This can enhance their learning experience by allowing them to see details that may not be visible otherwise.
Step 4: After the session
Turn off the devices
Once the session is over, disconnect the Otoscope and Dermatoscope from your computer.Store the devices properly
Keep the devices in a safe, dry place to ensure they remain in good working condition.
Cleaning instructions after use
Tip: Always wipe devices between users to maintain hygiene.
Use medical disinfectant wipes: Gently wipe down all surfaces of the devices with disinfectant wipes to remove any bacteria or viruses.
Warning: Avoid submerging the devices in liquid cleaning solutions to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting
Devices not recognised by the computer
The computer does not recognise the Otoscope or Dermatoscope when plugged in.
Check USB connections: Ensure the USB cables are securely connected to both the devices and the computer.
Try a different USB port: If the computer still does not recognise the device, try connecting it to a different USB port.
Update drivers: Ensure that the drivers for the devices are up to date. You can find the latest drivers on the manufacturer's website.
Poor image quality
The video feed from the Otoscope or Dermatoscope is blurry or dark.
Adjust focus: Use the focus adjustment on the device to sharpen the image.
Check lighting conditions: Ensure that the room is well-lit or use the built-in light on the device if available.
Clean the lens: Gently clean the lens of the device to remove any dirt or smudges that may be affecting the image quality.
Device disconnects during a session
The Otoscope or Dermatoscope disconnects from the computer during a session.
Check the USB connection: Ensure that the USB cable is securely connected to both the device and the computer.
Power issues: Ensure the device is properly powered and the computer is not entering sleep mode, which could interrupt the connection.
Restart the device: If the device continues to disconnect, restart both the device and the computer.
If you need further assistance, you can:
Use the support tool (bottom right) in the VCE™ web app to ask a specific question. It has many more solutions for you.
If you don’t find what you need, send us a message through the same tool.