Virtual events gather medical device knowledge from around the world, for you, at your desk

"We've pulled together an exciting list of comprehensive content topics that encompass everything from materials to medical device equipment design to outsourcing," stated Rich Nass, director of content for the UBM Canon medical device publishing group. "These are topics that appeal to a global audience, and thanks to the advancements made in virtual events, designers can participate from anyplace in the world."

A virtual event canbe compared to a cross between a trade show and a conference, with presentations, exhibitors' booths, and more, but with the event organized online so that travel and other logistics are not an issue. An attendee can listen to presentations and (via a chat tool) submit questions, visit stands to drop off a business card or ask questions of the experts manning the booth, and generally perform all of the other tasks you would during a live event.

The next upcoming virtual event, Equipment Design for an Evolving Medical Market, is scheduled for June 29, 2011, and is hosted by MD+DI, MPMN, MED, and Qmed. This virtual event includes sessions that will cover: Human Factors and Aesthetics, Portability, Next-Generation Imaging Equipment, Telehealth/Telemedicine, and Choosing the Right MCU/MPU and Operating System.

Remaining medical device and manufacturing-related virtual events slated for this year include: Development of Companion Diagnostics for Personalized Medicine, hosted by IVD Technology and Qmed on October 4, 2011, followed by a DesignMed Virtual Event, hosted by EE Times, MED, MD+DI, and Qmed on October 18, 2011. We'll share with you the registration links for these events as the dates get closer.

An OEM's Guide to Outsourcing virtual event will take place on November 9, 2011, and will be hosted by MD+DI, MPMN, CMDM, and Qmed. The presentations, panel discussions and chat sessions are geared to educate medical device OEMs on a selection of contract manufacturing topics that will include: Outsourcing to Asia, Micromanufacturing, Quality and Testing, Medical Packaging, and Design Trends.