Small design details can make a big difference in clinical practice.
When selecting a video laryngoscope, clinicians usually focus on key factors such as image quality, blade design, display size, or ergonomics. However, one important component is often overlooked: the connection interface between the handle, blade, and display.
Although it may seem like a small detail, the connection system directly influences signal stability, ease of operation, durability, maintenance requirements, and overall user experience.
As video laryngoscope technology continues to evolve, manufacturers have developed different connection solutions based on different engineering approaches, including
1. LEMO Connector
LEMO connectors, such as precision multi-pin connectors, are designed to provide secure mechanical engagement between components.
(Image generated by AI.)
2. Contact Connector
Contact-based connectors are achieved by touching the electrical sites between different components of video laryngoscope, such as handle and display, or, handle and blade.
(Image generated by AI.)
3. Integrated Connection System
An integrated connection usually combines signal transmission and mechanical positioning into a compact structure.
Glimview’s video laryngoscope connector
4. Standard Digital Interfaces (USB / HDMI)
Some video laryngoscopes adopt standard digital interfaces, such as USB or Mini HDMI, to transmit digital signals to external displays or monitoring systems.
These interfaces are based on the widely used digital communication standards and provide flexibility when connecting with external devices.
Which of the above is the best for intubation practice? To answer this question, let’s have a review of what we need in clinic.
- Reliability
Stable image transmission throughout the procedure, even after repeated assembly and disinfection.
- Efficiency
Fast and intuitive operation that minimizes preparation time, especially during emergency airway management.
- Durability
A robust structure capable of withstanding frequent clinical use without compromising mechanical or electrical performance.
- Ease of Maintenance
Simply, what we need is a connection system that works reliably every time. Therefore, do you know which type of connector could best address our concern? If not, why the rest connectors are developed?
Here’s a comparison list with score from 1 to 10 based on our internal evaluation finished by a group of engineers and a group of end users.
| Connector Type | Reliability | Efficiency | |||
| LEMO |
9 |
5 | 8 | 9 | 31 |
| Evaluation |
✅Strong mechanical stability ✅Reduced risk of accidental disconnection |
Require a proper alignment when handling during connection and disconnection. | Very durable but a wrong alignment could kill the locking system. | ✅Usually protected by waterproof cap that prevents chemical damage, following routine clinical maintenance. | |
| Contact | 3 | 9 | 4 | 2 | 18 |
| Evaluation | Oxidation or residue accumulation may affect electrical conductivity and potentially influence signal stability. | ✅Quick assembly and replacement | Long-term reliability depends on contact protection, material selection, and proper maintenance. | As electrical contacts are repeatedly exposed to cleaning agents, disinfectants, moisture and biological contaminants during clinical use, proper maintenance is required. | |
| Integrated | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 34 |
| Evaluation | ✅ Reliable connection | Fast operation | ✅ Long-term durability | Usually protected by waterproof cap that prevents chemical damage, following routine clinical maintenance. | |
| Digital | 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 37 |
| Evaluation |
From the above comparison, it seems the digital connector is the best. However, when integrated into medical devices, additional factors may need to be considered, including:
Is There a “Perfect” Connection Method? Probably not.
Every connection design represents a different engineering philosophy and addresses different clinical priorities.
For example:
* Teaching hospitals may prioritize external display compatibility and visualization capabilities.
* Emergency departments may value rapid deployment and intuitive operation.
* Operating rooms may focus on connection stability during procedures.
* Portable airway management may require compact design and easy maintenance.
At Glimview, we believe that meaningful innovation often lies in the smallest details. Sometimes, a better clinical experience begins with something as simple as the way two components connect.