BOWA ARC Compact Electrosurgical Unit: Choosing Between Type I to V

The compact ARC generator concept

The ARC series is the compact generation of BOWA HF generators: a flat unit measuring 430 × 140 × 470 mm and weighing 9.5 kg. Its adaptive 7-inch colour touch display (1280 × 800) shows only the key information for the instruments that are plugged in, which keeps the screen readable in a busy theatre.

Maximum monopolar power is 300 W (200 Ω) and maximum bipolar power is 200 W (75 Ω), with an output frequency of 350 kHz. This is lower than the ARC 400 or ARC 350, so check that it covers your most demanding monopolar procedures; for much routine work in gynaecology, ENT, day surgery and general procedures such ratings are usually adequate, and the flatter body saves space on a trolley.

Guided set-up and modes

A WIZARD guides the user to the right power setting in three steps: instrument, electrode, power. This is especially useful for rotating staff or smaller facilities where the same nurse may not set up the generator for every case. Memory holds 300 discipline-specific settings, and five ZAP modes can be called from the sterile field.

Preparation modes include DISSECT, FORCED and MIX. With COMFORT cables the generator recognises the instrument and loads suitable settings, and DISSECT modes with manual activation using ERGOact extend its use in laparoscopy. See our article on ERGOact laparoscopic bipolar for the instrument side.

• Adaptive 7-inch touch display
• WIZARD: instrument, electrode, power
• 300 stored settings and five ZAP modes
• DISSECT, FORCED and MIX modes

Understanding Type I to V

The five types differ in their socket configuration, which determines how many monopolar and bipolar outputs the generator offers. You can therefore match the unit to the number of instruments your procedures require. Ask the supplier for the exact socket table of each type, because this decides how many instruments can be connected and whether the generator is suited to a single-surgeon clinic or a general theatre.

The designation "ARC 100" is often used in searches for this family. Do not rely on it: confirm with the supplier the type and the exact order code you are being quoted, so that the delivered unit has the sockets you expect.

Which compact type for which setting?

Outpatient and day-surgery rooms usually need one monopolar and one bipolar output with simple settings. Gynaecology may need bipolar for hysteroscopic or laparoscopic work, and ENT clinics often use fine monopolar and bipolar tools. A general theatre may require several outputs and higher power, in which case you should compare with the ARC 350 (four outputs, up to 400 W) or the ARC 400.

Review the BOWA family page ARC series for configuration and the BOWA brand page for related accessories. Ask the supplier for an indicative accessory list per type: footswitches, COMFORT cables, neutral electrodes and holders.

Specification and acceptance checks

Check the type, socket arrangement, supplied cables and footswitch, software version and the instruments you plan to use. At acceptance, verify output with an HF analyser as part of your biomedical routine, in line with IEC 60601-2-2 principles; see our guide to the standard. Confirm warranty and preventive-maintenance arrangements.

Next step

Beckfinity can help you map your procedure list to the right ARC type, provide cables and instruments, and arrange installation and training. Contact our specialists to request a quote or an evaluation unit.