Backup Machine: same/different

[raylo]

I am considering getting a backup/travel accompaniment to my Intellipap Auto. I could get a new intellipap machine or a used S8 AutoSet II for nearly the same price range (I already have the software for both).

Is there any theraputic value in having two different machines? Or is there more value in keeping everything the same? Is getting different information helpful or just confusing when evaluating therapy?

There is a part of me that just wants to try a different machine, but another part says differently.

Any thoughts or advice would be appreciated, like everything else I have garnered from the folks on this site!

[Slartybartfast]

You've already got a great machine. Getting another one for backup/travel use wouldn't be a mistake. I have the S9 AUtoset as my primary machine and the Intellipap that I keep at my wife's house in Washington. So when I visit once/month, I no longer have to lug an expensive and damageable machine around.

FWIW, having different machines makes you appreciate the qualities of each.

[Pugsy]

Do you have the connectors needed to get the data off the ResMed S8 card to the computer? Those aren't easy to come by and aren't cheap. If not, that may be a factor in your decision. The software is easy to get but the data card reader or cables may not be so easy to get. Heck, even the data cards for those machines are getting scarce. Of course it does have on screen data but if you are computer person, may not satisfy you. Just a thought that I would mention....

[raylo]

Do you have the connectors needed to get the data off the ResMed S8 card to the computer? Those aren't easy to come by and aren't cheap. If not, that may be a factor in your decision. The software is easy to get but the data card reader or cables may not be so easy to get. Heck, even the data cards for those machines are getting scarce. Of course it does have on screen data but if you are computer person, may not satisfy you. Just a thought that I would mention....

I have the cable that goes straight from machine to computer (eliminates the need for the card). I used to have an S8 elite II.

[Pugsy]

I have the cable that goes straight from machine to computer (eliminates the need for the card). I used to have an S8 elite II.

Well then you do have sort of a toss up then. I have never used a ResMed and often wondered how I would do with one but you have used the Elite. So you have sort of an idea. Since I have never used anything but my M series Auto, I am zero help then. So sorry. I would probably be curious though. Wondering the perpetual "what if" Been there lately myself when looking at everyone's report with the S9 autos and the PR S1 Autos....would the S9 show me anything different? Feel any different? Make me feel any "better"? Sometimes I wish I could test drive the S9.

[raylo]

I have the cable that goes straight from machine to computer (eliminates the need for the card). I used to have an S8 elite II.

Well then you do have sort of a toss up then. I have never used a ResMed and often wondered how I would do with one but you have used the Elite. So you have sort of an idea. Since I have never used anything but my M series Auto, I am zero help then. So sorry. I would probably be curious though. Wondering the perpetual "what if" Been there lately myself when looking at everyone's report with the S9 autos and the PR S1 Autos....would the S9 show me anything different? Feel any different? Make me feel any "better"? Sometimes I wish I could test drive the S9.

I would like to try 'em all. But, that would get really expensive and drive my wonderful woman nuts.

[TooGroggy]

I found using different CPAP makes uncomfortable and disruptive to my routine. In my case I was trying to go between an S9 and a System One. But after getting used to EPR on the S9, I couldn't get a minute sleep using A-Flex on the System One. Then there was the issue of not being able to consolidate my data in one place or being able to compare the numbers from the two machines.

In the end, I put up the System One for sale on this board (where the listing still lingers even after 200+ people looked at it--can't believe my asking price is too high) and got another S9 for travel.

So my suggestion would be to stick with what you already use.

[BanjoPaterson]

After I bought an S9 I now use my old S8 II as the travel machine. I don't know about an IntelliPap, although I hear from the reviews they are an excellent machine, but the S8 is (in the context of modern xPAPs), a now somewhat bulky device compared to something like the S9. However, for me the advantage with having the S8 II as a backup machine is that I can use the same software for both (although it seems I have to be a different patient because the software assumes 1 serial number == 1 patient). This allows me to compare, although not consolidate, data in the one software package. The other advantage is that I am well used to both machines, so can switch without too much disturbance.

I guess my advice is to go for another intellipap. They look smaller, they are rated as being quiet, and I imagine you can use the same software to compare data. Also, the transition from normal machine to travel/backup machine would be smaller, and therefore less disturbing.

[dtsm]

I am considering getting a backup/travel accompaniment to my Intellipap Auto. I could get a new intellipap machine or a used S8 AutoSet II for nearly the same price range (I already have the software for both).

I've got two S8 autoset II so a big fan. But if you're happy with the Intellipap Auto, I'd get the same exact machine as a backup. And make sure to use your backup for a few days each month.

[Wulfman]

I was comfortable/satisfied with what I started with......so, I stocked up on 'em. Everything is interchangeable between any of them (including software compatibility) and they seem to do well for me, therapeutically.

Much of it depends on what your requirements are and how much extra money you have to spend.


Den