Medical Tricorder Scanadu Scout Closes Crowdfunding at Over $1.6 Million

Crowdfunding Campaign Had Target of $100,000, Crushes Goal with Support of 8,526 Backers.

Mountain View, California based Scanadu Scout – “The Worlds First Medical Tricorder” – has hit the crowdfunding jackpot by raising $1,665,579 on rewards based crowdfunding site Indiegogo.  The medical device captured wide media attention as reports inevitably drew similarities to the famous medical tricorder used in the Star Trek series. As science fiction became reality backers lined up to be first in line to support the Scanadu Scout campaign hoping to become one of the first people to own one of these fabled devices.  The crowdfunding project also became Indiegogo’s top grossing fundraising effort of all time.

Estimated delivery of the device has been set for March of 2014.  Supporters could claim early receipt of a Scanadu for $199.00 and almost 5000 backers signed up for this reward.  The two top level rewards were both sold out with the highest spot being a $16,900.00 reward for 100 Scanadu Scouts.

As it quickly became apparent that Scanadu was going to be a hit, the crowdfunding campaign set stretch goals and created a contest for existing backers to generate additional support.  The one person who generated the most referrals was to be awarded the first Scanadu Scout created – tagged number “1” – first edition.

The Scanadu Scout is able to measure several different metrics simply by placing on your forehead for 10 seconds.  The device reportedly will measure:  heart rate, skin/core body temperatur, oxymetry, respiratory rate, blood pressure, ECG, emotional stress.  The device is actually targeting the consumer market but is certain to capture the attention of (and significant purchases) medical practices around the world.  The device interfaces with both iOS and Android based platforms via Bluetooth.  Scanadu Scout will be going through the FDA process for medical approval.

The Scanadu team hosted a Google Hangout, where over 200 individuals registered to participate, this past Friday answering questions regarding how the device captured specific data and foreshadowing future initiatives (see below).

The Scanadu Scout Team is a start-up located in the NASA Research Park at Moffett Field  lead by CEO Walter De Brouwer who is a noted Belgian entrepreneur.