The Discam® Digital Imaging System is intended to be used as an ophthalmic diagnostic tool, which is complimentary to other accepted diagnostic technologies, to track the progress of glaucoma, relative to monitoring changes in the appearance (size and shape) of the Optic Disc.
Device Story
Discam Digital Imaging System captures stereo images of the optic disc using a CCD stereo camera mounted on a table with an adjustable chin rest. Input consists of optical images of the fundus; operator initiates capture via joystick in 0.2 seconds. System interfaces with a PC (Windows 95) for image display, measurement, and archiving. Software enables basic analysis, including measurement of cup and disc size and cup-to-disc ratio. Used in clinical settings by eye care professionals to track glaucoma progression by monitoring optic nerve head changes. Output allows clinicians to visualize and quantify structural changes over time, aiding in clinical decision-making regarding glaucoma management.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data provided. Substantial equivalence is supported by non-clinical bench testing confirming power and luminance levels are within specifications and reliance on published literature regarding the safety and effectiveness of digital imaging systems for fundus and optic nerve head evaluation.
Technological Characteristics
CCD stereo camera; 12V 55W halogen illumination; 10° field of view; PC-based image capture and analysis; switch mode power supply (100-220V, 50-60Hz). Software provides measurement of cup and disc dimensions.
Indications for Use
Indicated for evaluation of the Optic Disc (Optic Nerve Head) to monitor progress in patients with Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An ophthalmic camera is an AC-powered device intended to take photographs of the eye and the surrounding area.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The device, when it is a photorefractor or a general-use ophthalmic camera, is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 886.9.
Predicate Devices
KOWA PROFESSIONAL FUNDUS CAMERA MODELS FX-500 (K954780)
{0}------------------------------------------------
#### AUG 17 1998
K974535
510(k) Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Information Marcher Enterprises, Ltd.
# DISCAM® DIGITAL IMAGING SYSTEM
## Applicant/Manufacturer
Marcher Enterprises, Ltd. Twyford Road, Unit 449 Rotherwas Industrial Estate Hereford HR2 6JR United Kingdom
Contact Name: Patrick Kirby
Tel: (44) 1432 278 400 Fax: (44) 1432 354218
Date of Summary Preparation: October 23, 1997
#### Device Name
Proprietary Name: Discam® Digital Imaging System Common Name: Ophthalmic Digital Camera Classification Name: Camera, Ophthalmic, AC-Powered
### Predicate Device
- · KOWA OPTIMED, INC .: KOWA PROFESSIONAL FUNDUS CAMERA MODELS FX-500 (K954780, cleared 12/01/95)
- · OPHTHALMIC IMAGING SYSTEMS, INC .: DFC-512 DIGITAL IMAGING SYSTEM (K913929, cleared 11/27/91)
- · LASER DIAGNOSTIC TECHNOLOGIES, INC .: TOPOGRAPHIC SCANNING SYSTEM (K923742, cleared 03/26/93)
- · HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING: HEIDELBERG RETINA TOMOGRAPH (K912891, cleared 09/27/91)
510(k) SUMMARY OF SAFETY AND EFF DISCAM® DIGITAL IMAGI
{1}------------------------------------------------
## Device Description
The Discam® Digital Imaging System consists of a CCD Stereo Camera that captures stereo images through an image capture board interfaced with a PC with the minimum requirements mages arough an RAM, 1 GB Hard Disc, 133 MHz CPU, Windows® 95 OS. The CCD stereo camera and housing is mounted on a standard rise and fall table, along with a standard adjustable patient chin rest.
The patient fixates on fixation lights, (fixed LEDs), and the operator views the image on the PC's monitor. Image capture, which is accomplished in 0.2 seconds, is initiated by pushing a iov stick.
Windows® based software allows basic analysis, (measurement of cup and Disc, cup to Disc ratio), of the captured images, using either our optional analysis software, or third party software with user developed algorithms, and data archiving.
The camera measures 370 mm Depth x 360 mm Height x 108 mm Width. It is powered by a switch mode power supply 100 V to 220 V, 50 Hz to 60 Hz.
Illumination is from a 12 Volt 55 Watt Halogen Lamp. There is no flash.
# Intended Use
The Discam® Digital Imaging System is intended to be used as an ophthalmic diagnostic tool, which is complimentary to other accepted diagnostic technologies, to track the progress of glaucoma, relative to monitoring changes in the appearance (size and shape) of the Optic Disc.
## Comparison of the Technological Characteristics of the Device to the Predicate.
The determination of the substantial equivalence of the Discam® Digital Imaging System is based upon the following:
- · Intended Use
- · Operational Characteristics
- · Technological Characteristics
A side by side comparison of the characteristics of the Discam® Digital Imaging System to the predicate devices listed above is provided in Table 3.
{2}------------------------------------------------
# TABLE 3: COMPARISON OF DEVICE
| | Marcher<br>Enterprises, Ltd<br>Discam® | Kowa Optimed<br>Fundus Camera<br>FX-500 | |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|--|
| Intended Use: To view, capture and<br>archive images of the human fundus. | YES | YES | |
| Ability to measure changes in<br>Optic Disc/Cup size and shape | YES | YES (1) | |
| Halogen Illumination Source | YES | YES | |
| Confocal Laser Scanning | NO | NO | |
| PC Interface | YES | YES (1) | |
| CCD Camera | YES | YES (2) | |
| Maximum Field of View | 10° | 60° | |
Note (1): With Optional PC Interface and Software Note (2): With Optional 35 mm Film Based or Digital CCD
:
:
{3}------------------------------------------------
# CHARACTERISTICS
а сталогія страдае пасадае парадаецца парасміна такцыя выяванн
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
:
| ser Diagnostic<br>Technologies<br>TopSS | Heidelberg Eng.<br>Retina<br>Tomograph | Ophthalmic<br>Imaging Systems<br>DFC-512 |
|-----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|------------------------------------------|
| YES | YES | YES |
| YES | YES | YES |
| NO | NO | YES |
| YES | YES | NO |
| YES | YES | YES |
| NO | NO | YES |
| 30° | 30° | 60° |
r
Table 3
e la personal programments on the comments of the comments of the summer a AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AND AN
{4}------------------------------------------------
## Testing
- · Non-Clinical Testing
The Discam® Digital Imaging System was tested to assure that the power and luminance levels delivered in every mode of operation were within specification.
- · Clinical Testing
Published data indicate that viewing and capturing images of the Fundus and Optic Nerve Head/Optic Disc with Digital Imaging Systems is safe and effective.
- Conclusions Drawn
Marcher Enterprises Ltd. believes that the Discam® Digital Imaging System is substantially equivalent to those predicate devices cited above, that any differences are minor, and that these differences do not raise any issue of safety or effectiveness.
{5}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/5/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a circular seal with the text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES USA" around the perimeter. Inside the circle is an abstract symbol that resembles a stylized caduceus or a representation of human figures.
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
AUG 1 4 1998
Tim Dawson Development Director Marcher Enterprises LTD Unit 2, Clearview Court, Twyford Road Rotherwas, Hereford HR2 6JR UK
Re: K974535 Trade Name: Discam Digital Imaging System Regulatory Class: II Product Code: 86 HKI Dated: July 20, 1998 Received: July 22, 1998
Dear Mr. Dawson:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) notification of intent to market the device referenced above and we have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (Premarket Approval), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 895. A substantially equivalent determination assumes compliance with the current Good Manufacturing Practice requirements, as set forth in the Quality System Regulation (QS) for Medical Devices: General regulation (21 CFR Part 820) and that, through periodic (QS) inspections, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will verify such assumptions. Failure to comply with the GMP regulation may result in regulatory action. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register. Please note: this response to your premarket notification submission does not affect any obligation you might have under sections 531 through 542 of the Act for devices under the Electronic Product Radiation Control provisions, or other Federal laws or regulations .
{6}------------------------------------------------
Page 2 - Tim Dawson
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801 and additionally 809.10 for in vitro diagnostic devices), please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4613. Additionally, for questions on the promotion and advertising of your device, please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4639. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 807.97). Other general information on your responsibilities under the Act may be obtained from the Division of Small Manufacturers Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its internet address "http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsmamain.html".
Sincerely yours,
A. Ralph Rosenthal
A. Ralph Rosenthal, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{7}------------------------------------------------
510(k) Number (if known): ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Device Name: Discam® Digital Imaging System
#### Indications For Use:
The Discam® Digital Imaging System is intended to be used to evaluate the Optic Disc, (Optic Nerve Head). It is used in the same fashion as a Fundus camera, except that it's field of view is narrower, in order to focus exclusively on the Optic Disc, (Optic Nerve Head). Evaluation of changes in the size and shape of the Optic Disc, (Optic Nerve Head), is useful in monitoring the progress of patients with Ocular Hypertension, and Glaucoma.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NECESSARY ) ャー・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Prescription Use (Per 21 CFR 801.109)
OR
Over-The-Counter Use _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Everett Been
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Ophthalmic Devices
510(k) Number K974535
Predicate graph will load when search results are available.
Embedding visualization will load when search results are available.
PDF viewer will load when search results are available.
Loading panels...
Select an item from Submissions
Click any panel, subpart, regulation, product code, or device to see details here.
Section Matches
Results will appear here.
Product Code Matches
Results will appear here.
Special Control Matches
Results will appear here.
Loading collections...
Loading
My Alerts
You will receive email notifications based on the filters and frequency you set for each alert.
Sort by:
Create Alert
Search Filters
Agent Token
Create a read-only bearer token for Claude, ChatGPT, or other agents that can call HTTP APIs.
Copy this now. It will not be shown again.
Connected apps
Apps you authorized through browser sign-in. Disconnecting revokes their access immediately.
Learn the FDA Browser
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.