Machines that track stats

[SleepyThea]

I am not sure I understand about the software. How does the software connect to the CPAP? Do you have to have a specific model?

I can't remember my model. I will have to try to remember it and post it. I assume that's what the pictures are below some of your posts. I have had my CPAP for 2.5 years and all I can adjust is the altitude and whether the buttons light up or not. All it shows usually is hours of usage (7033 as of last night).

Whatever you can tell me about them and ways to manage your DME will be appreciated.

Thanks,

Thea

[LyleHaze]

Some models connect by a serial cable. Many of the Respironics models have a "Smart Card" stuck in the back of the machine. It's a memory card that you can pull out and take to your doctor for him to read.

The software to read respironics cards used to be available to the patients, but a few weeks ago they stopped selling it to the public.
There may be a few places that still have it available.

The respironics units would also need a card reader to go with the software. These may be available from CPAP.com or possi9bly from other sources too.

Finally, different respironics machines collect different data. The most basic M series machine only keeps track of compliance (how often you use the machine). This won't help you much. Some other machines will also track pressures, Humidifier settings, AHI events, and more.

If you read the details of machines offered at cpap.com, they usually mention what data each machine makes available, and how many days can be stored.

Now that Respironics doesn't support user software, some are expecting other companies to benefit with more sales.

Good Luck,
LyleHaze

[SleepyThea]

Thanks very much. I expect, from the level of service I received, that I have the lowest level model.

I will look at the website and see what they have.

Thea

[Slinky]

I have both the Resmed S8 Elite CPAP (fully data capable) and Resmed S8 AutoSet Vantage (fully data capable autoPAP).

The thing I especially like about my Resmed S8s is that I can check my nightly Pressure, Leak, AHI, AI, HI and hours used very easily via their good size, easy to read, LED screen via the buttons. I can also check the number of nights used, total number of hours used and check my mask fit for leaks via the buttons and LED screen.

Resmed has done their best to discourage online DME suppliers from selling their AutoScan 5.7 software and card reader cable so that you can download info to your computer - but enterprising Resmed xPAPpers can still find them online. While the software does provide more information than is available via the LED screen, most xPAP users can be easily satisfied w/the LED screen info available unless and until they REALLY get into this xPAP bit.

The software and readers for all of the various brand xPAPs were developed and intended for use by DME suppliers and the medical profession only. It seems the sleep profession hasn't "grown up" as fast as other branches of the medical profession and prefer to continue wallowing in the dark ages of medicine.