Buying a used cpap machine

[hunter11]

I'm buying a used cpap machine Respironics RemStar Auto M series it looks like an older model and in good condition ,is there anyone out there that knows this machine I'm a first time user and because I'm in between jobs I can't afford a new one so I was wounding is it easy to operate and setup it does not have a user manual ,it's the one with the uncovered display window on the top of machine .

[Pugsy]

The M Series Auto was my first machine.
Do you have a mask already?

You can go here and get the Quick Start guide for how to get into the clinical menu setup area.
http://www.apneaboard.com/adjust-cpap-p ... tup-manual

Just scroll down until you see the link for Respironics Remstar Auto M series...that's the link for the quick set up guide..only 2 pages.
I suggest that you also request the full pdf copy of the provider manual so you can see more detailed explanation of the machine's features. Just scroll down near the bottom of the page to see the instructions for requesting the full manual via email
You would request this
Respironics Auto M Series with A-flex (complete manual, not just Setup Guide)
Your machine may or may not have AFlex (the real early model Autos had CFlex) but it doesn't matter because AFlex and CFlex are just forms of exhale relief.

The Auto M series is a full data machine. Does it come with the Smart card? The smart card is a little card about the size of a credit card that slips into the back of the machine. If it doesn't you can buy them online. It will likely have the prior user's data on it. There is a way to erase that data...and use available software (Encore) to see your data that the machine gathers.
You would need a special smart card reader though. The Mako Infineer DT3500 is the only one that will work.
They can be found online also...Best price that I know of is $40 plus 6.50 S/H.
Send me a private message if/when you want the software and be sure to include your computer's operating system so we can make sure you can use the software.

There is a way to erase the prior users data from the machine. You would want to do this before you use the machine or else it removes your data as well. Easy to do.

How to reset the therapy data shown on the M series LCD screen to zero.

==========Resetting LCD Display Data=========================
To reset LCD Therapy data (does NOT erase any data from SmartCard):

1. Hold down the (<-) (->) buttons while plugging in the power on the back,
wait for 2 beeps or 5 seconds, release buttons.
2. Press the (->) key and navigate to Therapy screen.
3. Press and HOLD down the (-) minus key for 5 seconds, therapy data will reset to Zero.
4. Press the (->) key to scroll back to main menu, press (+) key to enter Setup or
On/Off button to exit.

[old dude]

Before buying any used Respironics machine, consider that Respironics will not even talk to you directly if the machine needs repair but will instead refer you to your DME. Since you're buying from an individual and not a DME you will now officially own a worthless hunk of plastic. This policy on their part is mind boggling to me.

[Pugsy]

The M series machines are no longer within a warranty period. So dealing with Respironics directly becomes a moot point.
They are also cheap enough that they pretty much are considered "disposable" machines. It's a risk that we assume when we buy used or discontinued machines. Sometimes that's all a person can afford at the time. It's not a worthless piece of junk. All the cpap machine manufacturers have always considered DMEs to be their customers and not the patient end user. They cater to DMEs.

I understand you are angry but ResMed also requires any machine under warranty, that has a problem, for it to be submitted by a DME or equipment provider. They won't deal directly with patients either when it comes to machines and warranty.

Before buying any used Respironics machine, consider that Respironics will not even talk to you directly if the machine needs repair but will instead refer you to your DME. Since you're buying from an individual and not a DME you will now officially own a worthless hunk of plastic. This policy on their part is mind boggling to me.

[old dude]

The M series machines are no longer within a warranty period. So dealing with Respironics directly becomes a moot point.
They are also cheap enough that they pretty much are considered "disposable" machines. It's a risk that we assume when we buy used or discontinued machines. Sometimes that's all a person can afford at the time. It's not a worthless piece of junk. All the cpap machine manufacturers have always considered DMEs to be their customers and not the patient end user. They cater to DMEs.

I understand you are angry but ResMed also requires any machine under warranty, that has a problem, for it to be submitted by a DME or equipment provider. They won't deal directly with patients either when it comes to machines and warranty.

Before buying any used Respironics machine, consider that Respironics will not even talk to you directly if the machine needs repair but will instead refer you to your DME. Since you're buying from an individual and not a DME you will now officially own a worthless hunk of plastic. This policy on their part is mind boggling to me.

Yes, perhaps I'm overreacting but I just consider this policy almost punitive to the actual patient. As you point out, not everyone goes through a DME and not everyone has insurance, so buying used can indeed be a good idea. And I guess that's why the prices are so reasonable on used machines.

I suppose the bottom line is that it's a very profitable business model for the DMEs and that's just how it is so I need to get used to it.

[chunkyfrog]

And this is why acbio.com exists.

[Pugsy]

And this is why acbio.com exists.

Indeed it is.
They can also act as a go between for machines under warranty but there is still their diagnostic fee that comes into the picture.

[old dude]

And this is why acbio.com exists.

cf, thank you very much.

I had no idea that such a company existed!