System Comparison: GE Innova 2100 IQ vs GE Innova IGS 520

In the cardiac cath space, small detector systems are the norm. For cardiac facilities who have the GE Innova 2100 IQ but are looking to upgrade, the GE Innova IGS 520 is the next step up the line.  

But what’s the difference between the Innova 2100 IQ and the GE Innova IGS 520? The most basic answer is that they’re almost the same system, but the 520 is next generation. The GE Innova IGS 520 has everything you know and love about the GE Innova 2100 IQ but is augmented with newer tech, computer software, and some architecture upgrades.  

However, there are more details that might pique your interest as you want to be as informed as possible when weighing whether or not to upgrade. 

• What is the history of the GE Innova 2100 IQ? 

• What is the history of the GE Innova IGS 520? 

• How are the GE Innova 2100 IQ and the GE Innova IGS 520 Similar?  

• Our conclusion

Note: Block Imaging provides refurbished cath lab equipment and parts. You can read about it in detail below or reach out to our sales team to learn more about how it can help improve diagnostic imaging. 

What is the History of the GE Innova 2100 IQ? 

Initially starting with what might have been the first flat panel digital cath lab - the GE Innova 2000 cath labs were introduced in the late 1990’s.  

Enjoying success with this system, GE rolled out the Innova 2100 IQ system in 2005 which was built on an updated platform (which is the same platform as the Innova 3100 and 4100 systems). The 2100 IQ would become a mainstay in GE’s cath lab lineup for many years.  

Then GE Innova 2100 IQ unit had a few upgrades along the way. Most of the upgrades were incremental, with the major upgrades being: 

• In 2009, GE upgraded to the DL8/RTAC8 computers and Harmony software for the Innova 2100 IQ Plus.  

• In late 2010, GE upgraded to the Pathfinder software. 

What is the history of the GE Innova IGS 520? 

Building on the success that the GE Innova 2000s labs enjoyed, GE upgraded the line in 2012/2013, naming the new models as the GE Innova IGS 520, 530, and 540. “IGS” stands for “Image Guided System” and its detectors mirrors the same detector system that the GE Innova 2100/3100/and 4100 labs had.  

For more information on the detectors, check out our detector size comparison video for the GE Innova line. 

These new systems came with a new color scheme, as well as software and architecture updates, like dose reduction capabilities and larger monitors.  

Since these are not an end-of-life system for GE, the GE Innova IGS 520 are a great option for hospitals looking to have essentially the same system, but with access to newer software and innovation in technology. 

How are the GE Innova 2100 IQ and the GE Innova IGS 520 Similar?  

Our Conclusion

The story of these systems can be summed up by noticing that the software upgrades proved themselves popular with medical centers. Additionally, the systems continued to experience significant popularity in the cardiac cath space as the Innova IGS series progressed. Longtime GE cath users appreciate how GE managed to blend the same system hardware and user experience with a sleek new look and updated features. 

If you’re interested in learning more information about the GE cath lab space, check out our other articles about the GE systems: 

• Optima CL320i 

• Optima CL323i 

• Innova IGS 320 and 330 

• Innova IGS 520, 530, and 540 

• Innova IGS 620 and 630 

If you’re interested in upgrading to an Innova IGS 520, you’ve come to the right equipment vendor. Block Imaging works with our customers to find a solution that meets their facility’s needs – from equipment to parts to service.