The HD15 is a new platform designed to deliver an advanced level of image clarity and broad application support for everyday use in small hospitals, clinics and private practices. The system may be used as a primary system for some users, particularly those in emerging markets who require a feature-rich system but may not need all of the features of a high-end ultrasound solution.The HD15 contains multiple usability features to improve workflow, as well as versatile capabilities for a wide range of exam types including general imaging, cardiac, vascular and OB/GYN applications. In addition, advanced features like contrast enhanced ultrasound and PureWave transducer technology allow users to perform real-time guidance and evaluation of minimally-invasive treatment procedures and providemore diagnostic confidence on technically challenging patients and pathologies.

"Physicians are increasingly turning to ultrasound to help support the growing demand for diagnostic exams and treatment guidance," said Anne LeGrand, senior vice president, Ultrasound, for Philips Healthcare. "The HD15 brings capabilities that assure user simplicity and productivity to more clinicians, in a variety of clinical settings worldwide."

Advanced Philips technologies such as QLAB quantification software, XRES image processing and PureWave transducer crystal technology have been integrated into the HD15 to provide clinicians a robust system that assures ease of use and productivity. New Microfine EX focusing provides sharper images and improved tissue uniformity throughout the depth of field through application of new dynamic receive lens tuning with five times more focal points than previous generation systems. Tissue Specific Imaging presets and iSCAN one button image optimization can quickly provide clear images with little to no adjustment. A broad suite of configurable patient reports and exam storage options, such as DVD-CD-R/RW, USB drive, and full DICOM capabilities, provide efficient patient data management and colleague or specialist consulting.

The HD15 may potentially change the way clinicians review ultrasound exams with active native data and live compare. Active native data allows clinicians to manipulate exam parameters and image settings even after the patient has left. Images and Cineloops can receive further investigation by manipulating the original image to see new detail. Live compare allows the clinician to compare a previous exam side-by-side with an active exam in order to immediately see changes in structure or blood flow. This can be particularly helpful in comparing changes in cardiac and vascular anomalies, further documenting changes after interventional procedures, or evaluating fetal development.

The HD family of performance systems now includes the small, utilitarian HD3, the HD7 which was introduced earlier this year, the popular, feature-rich HD11 XE and the new HD15. More information on the Philips HD15 ultrasound system is available at: www.philips.com/HD15

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About Royal Philips Electronics
Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) is a diversified Health and Well-being company, focused on improving people’s lives through timely innovations. As a world leader in healthcare, lifestyle and lighting, Philips integrates technologies and design into people-centric solutions, based on fundamental customer insights and the brand promise of "sense and simplicity". Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips employs approximately 133,000 employees in more than 60 countries worldwide. With sales of US$42 billion (EUR 27 billion) in 2007, the company is a market leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as lifestyle products for personal well-being and pleasure with strong leadership positions in flat TV, male shaving and grooming, portable entertainment and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.