Over the past decade， medical ultrasound imaging equipment has experienced a revolution. Advances in integrated electronics have allowed equipment manufacturers to significantly improve the portability and the affordability of this powerful medical tool. What once weighed hundreds of pounds and required a cart for mobility， is now the size of a portable laptop computer. Needless to say， the impact for the medical community and the patient has been profound. In developed countries， ultrasound is now utilized at the patient’s point of care， which reduces costs and improves outcomes. In developing countries， ultrasound imaging is now available to a much larger segment of their predominantly rural populations. The impact of these new， more portable low-cost systems on healthcare worldwide is significant and well received. The future of the technology promises even more advances.