Abstract

A programmer is disclosed for transmitting encoded signals to a pacing generator to effect the programming of a mode and/or parameter of the pacering generator's operation. The pacing generator applies stimulating pulses to the patient's heart in accordance with the programmed parameters and/or mode and includes a memory for storing the encoded signals and means therein for detecting the successful storage of the parameters in the memory to provide an indication thereof, whereby a generating circuit of the pacing generator generates a test or PIP pulse of given characteristics and within a defined interval after the pacing pulse. The programming apparatus of this invention includes means coupled to the patient's body for sensing his heart activity signals including the stimulating pulses and the PIP pulses, a keyboard for entering the parameters and/or mode of operation to be programmed within the pacing generator, a transmitter for encoding and transmitting the parameters and/or mode of operation to the pacing generator, and a measuring means for measuring the characteristics of the detected PIP pulse and the interval of time between the occurrence of the stimulating pulse and the PIP pulse, for determining whether the measured interval and characteristics are within a predetermined set of limits and if so, for providing a manifestation that the pacing generator has been successfully programmed.