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Talk About Sleep is pleased to welcome Respironics and Jeff Maglin as our special guest this evening to answer your questions about the new M Series line of flow generators. The REMstar M Series includes the REMstar Plus, REMstar Pro and REMstar Auto (these link to their respective products in our online store).
Jeff is responsible for the global strategy and new product development for Respironics fixed CPAP, C-Flex and integrated humidification. Jeff has over 10 years experience in Global Sales and Marketing Management in medical products and land and wireless communication networks. Jeff holds an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University and a BA in economics from the University of Michigan.
Assisting Jeff tonight is Maura Weis. As US Marketing Manager for Sleep Therapy, Maura develops and executes marketing strategies and programs for Respironics' Sleep Therapy product lines. Maura's professional background includes over seventeen years of marketing and sales for Fortune 1000 companies as well as new start up ventures and covers several market segments including medical products, information technology and consumer goods. Maura holds an MBA from University of Pittsburgh and a BA in economics from Middlebury College.
1.What is the new REMstar M Series from Respironics?
It is the redesigned family of sleep therapy systems which replace the entire line of REMstar "legacy" devices. The M Series sleep systems now offers more of what users want without taking away anything that healthcare providers need.
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2. How is the M Series different than your prior REMstar models?
Improved design and more user-friendly functionality. You'll immediately notice the smaller and sleeker design which better fits your sleep environment. It looks less like a medical device. We've included lighted touch controls for the three buttons you use most: power, ramp and C-Flex. The LCD display containing the advanced reporting and setup is now located under a separate cover.
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3. The tube connection has been moved to the back of the device. Why?
Simple--innovation and aesthetics. We wanted to give you a less obtrusive profile. In our extensive patient research, there was an overwhelming request to make a CPAP look less like a medical device. One of the main areas we considered was the visibility of the tubing. By connecting in the back, the tubing is better concealed without compromising functionality.
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4. Does the tube swivel?
Yes. A 360 degree swivel is included to enable easy movement of the tubing during sleep.
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5. What colors are available?
The REMstar M Series models are black to best accent the sleek, small design.
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6. Does the REMstar M Series have a heated humidifier?
Yes. The optional humidification chamber also has been redesigned for patient ease-of-use. It features a new lighted, easy-turn dial for more precise humidification adjustment in the dark. And the new "hidden" water chamber is extremely easy to remove, fill and replace.
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7. How many hours of humidification will I receive with a full chamber of water?
The humidifier tank, which is 325 ml. (1 2/3 cups), will provide humidification for at least 8 hours per night. This has been validated under the most extreme conditions of pressure setting, humidification setting and sleep environment. Note: Excess mask or other system leak will increase water consumption.
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8. Can I use the humidifier for cool pass-over humidification?
Yes. Set the humidification dial to zero and the heat source of the humidifier is turned off.
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9. Is there preheat?
No. There is no preheat and the blower must be on to activate the humidifier. The humidifier knob has 6 settings, ranging from 0 to 5, with 0 indicating OFF. The ideal humidity setting depends on room temperature and humidity. Initially a setting of 2 is recommended.
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10. Will the humidifier run if there is no water in the tank?
If the humidifier is set from 1 to 5 and the blower is on, the humidifier will continue to control heat to the set level, even if there is no water in the water tank. This situation will not cause damage to either the humidifier or the water tank.
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11. Will the humidifier run if the water tank is not in the humidifier?
The humidifier will run if the water tank is not in the humidifier but no therapy will be delivered to the patient. The air rush noise also will also increase substantially. No damage will result to the humidifier.
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12. Can I remove the water tank while the humidifier is on?
Yes, however it is possible that water in the tank may be hot. We recommend turning the dial to 0 and letting the unit cool for 15 minutes before removing the water tank.
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13. Are the water tanks disposable or reusable? How long do they last?
The water tanks are reusable and will last up to 12 months
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14. How does the heated humidifier attach to the device?
The device slides and connects very easily into a port on the humidifier. It is also a simple and easy process to disassemble the humidifier section from the base unit.
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15. How do you clean the outlet port of the humidifier?
Use a damp bottle brush or a damp cloth. To clean, insert the brush or cloth approximately 3 inches into the outlet opening.
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16. How easy is it to clean the water tank?
We incorporated a convenient design for when it's time for cleaning--the tank comes apart into two pieces! Simply push the tank's slider switch to the right and then gently pull apart the top and bottom halves by pulling upward on the tabs or tank inlet/outlet. Now you can easily (and thoroughly) clean inside without having to use some kind of special brush.
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17. Is the water tank dishwasher safe?
Note that instead of putting your water tank in a dishwasher along with dirty dishes, we recommend you clean it manually using mild soap and water. The material from which the water tank is constructed is dishwasher safe. If you still want to put your tank in a dishwasher, you must first remove the blue "O" ring that seals between the two sections. Afterwards, put the "O" ring back in its original position.
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18. Can I replace my water tank?
Yes. Contact your homecare provider to order a new water tank.
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19. What is the warranty on the humidifier?
Respironics, Inc. warrants that the humidifier shall be free from defects of workmanship and materials and will perform in accordance with the product specifications for a period of two (2) years from the date of sale by Respironics, Inc. to the dealer.
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20. I noticed a new control button on top of the device with the word "C-Flex." What is this control?
C-Flex is our unique technology that reduces the pressure as you begin to exhale - a time when patients are often most uncomfortable. The amount of pressure relief is determined by your natural flow of breathing and the C-Flex setting that you choose. The pressure returns to your therapeutic level by the end of exhalation. Delivering the right level of pressure relief when you need it makes therapy more natural and more comfortable.
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21. Can I change the C-Flex setting on the M Series?
Yes you can, however it depends on whether your homecare provider has enabled this option. Users can choose a C-Flex setting of 1, 2 or 3, with three being the greatest amount of pressure relief during exhalation.
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22. Does the M Series have altitude adjustment?
Yes. The REMstar and REMstar Plus models require manual altitude adjustment. The REMstar Pro and REMstar Auto models adjust automatically to altitude.
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23. Can I change the Ramp Start pressure?
If ramp is enabled by your homecare provider, users can adjust the starting ramp pressure. Patients cannot change the ramp time.
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24. Is there a mask leak alert?
Yes. The alert can be activated and deactivated. When activated it sounds a brief alarm if the device detects excessive system leak.
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25. Is there an auto off feature?
Yes. The user may activate and deactivate the blower's automatic turn-off mechanism which will shut down the unit after a period of user disconnect.
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26. How do I view usage statistics?
Usage data can be seen on the LCD display located under the flip lid. The data includes 7 and 30-day average hours of compliance and the number of sessions >4 hours. Our REMstar Pro and REMstar Auto models will also show your apnea/hypopnea index and system leak.
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27. When will the REMstar M Series Pro be released?
Now! It was made available May 24, 2006 to all U.S. customers. It is available with our integrated heated humidifier.
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28. I own a REMstar M Series. What are the reminders that appear on my display screen every few months?
Your homecare provider may have set up your device to display reminders related to your therapy management such as replacing your filters, mask or tubing. These reminders may appear at the end of a therapy session. They are programmed to appear every 90, 180, 270 and 360 days. The reminder will flash for a period of 6 minutes every time the unit is turned off until you acknowledge the message by pressing any of the four navigational buttons (<, >, -, +). After 72 hours from the start of the reminder period, the reminder timer will automatically shut off and reset. There is no audible alarm. Regular replacement of your therapy accessories is an important part of maintaining a comfortable and successful sleep regimen.
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29. Are there fuses for the patient to replace?
There are no user-replaceable fuses.
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30. When traveling internationally, do I need a voltage converter?
A voltage converter is not needed, but an international plug adapter may be required to make the power cord compatible with the power outlets of that country.
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31. When traveling to a destination without electrical outlets, how can I power my device?
Your device can be powered by a portable battery. Respironics offers a battery pack and carry case is available for purchase through your homecare provider.
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32. How can I locate a homecare provider to help me when I am out of town?
When traveling domestically, you may contact our customer service department at 1-800-345-6443. When traveling internationally, call 724-387-4000 but follow the prompts to our International Customer Service representatives.
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33. How can I locate a homecare provider when I have relocated?
Contact our customer service, 1-800-345-6443. Our representatives will provide you with the names of providers in the area.
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34. What is the warranty on the M Series device?
Respironics, Inc. warrants that the system shall be free from defects of workmanship and materials and will perform in accordance with the product specifications for a period of 2 years from the date of sale by Respironics, Inc. to the dealer.
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35. What is the exact weight of the M Series device alone? How about the device with the heated humidifier?
The device alone weighs 2.2 pounds. Combined with the optional humidifier, it weighs approximately 4.4 pounds.
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36. Your "legacy" REMstar Plus model does not have C-Flex. The M Series REMstar Plus does. Why has Respironics decided to make C-Flex a standard on basic machines?
The Legacy REMstar Plus was available with and without C-Flex. With the introduction of the REMstar M Series, we have streamlined our CPAP platform in order to include four product offerings that feature different C-Flex and compliance combinations: REMstar basic: no C-flex, phone in compliance. REMstar Plus with C-Flex: optional download compliance on basic patterns of use. REMstar Pro with C-Flex: download compliance with therapy data including AHI, Snore and Leak. REMstar Auto with C-Flex: our advanced auto algorithm and download compliance with therapy data including AHI, Snore and Leak.
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37. What comes in the box when I order a M Series sleep system model?
The REMstar M Series system includes the following items: REMstar M Series Device, 6 ft Flexible Tubing with 360° swivel, carrying case with padded shoulder strap, power supply, AC Power cord (3ft), reusable gray foam filter (Qty 2), disposable ultra-fine filter, patient user manual, integrated heated humidifier (if ordered), integrated SmartCard module (if ordered)
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38. Can I use my legacy REMstar foam and fine filters in the M Series or do I need another kind?
The REMstar M Series requires new, smaller filters including reusable foam filters and disposable filters for fine particles. A foam filter is installed in the device. A replacement set of foam and fine particle filters is also packaged with the device.
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39. What is the difference between the gray foam and white particle filter?
The device uses a gray foam filter that is washable and reusable, and an optional white ultra-fine filter that is disposable. The reusable filter screens out normal household dust and pollens, while the optional ultra-fine filter provides more complete filtration of very fine particles. The gray reusable filter must be in place at all times when the device is operating. The ultra-fine filter is recommended for people who are sensitive to tobacco smoke or other small particles. Two reusable gray foam filters and one disposable ultra-fine filter are supplied with the device.
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40. How often should I change my filters?
Under normal usage, you should clean the gray foam filter at least once every two weeks and replace it with a new one every six months. The white ultra-fine filter is disposable and should be replaced after 30 nights of use or sooner if it appears dirty. DO NOT clean the ultra-fine filter.
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41. When running the device and heated humidifier at the same time, how many cords plug into the wall? Are individual cords needed for both the humidifier and the machine or is there one power source for all components?
The device and humidifier have different power cords that connect to an external power supply, however, conveniently only one power cord plugs into the wall.
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42. Can the M Series machines run off of the Respironics Battery Pack while using the heated humidifier?
The Battery pack provides power to the device. It does not provide enough power to enable heated humidification.
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43. Does the device have a DC connection? Is the heated humidifier DC compatible?
The device has a direct DC connection. The humidifier runs on AC power and requires a DC/AC converter to run from a DC source.
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44. Does the carrying case hold both the CPAP and the Heated Humidifier?
The standard carrying case provided with the device holds the entire system including tubing and mask accessories.
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45. What versions of Encore Pro software function with M Series? Are upgrades provided free of charge?
The M Series is compatible with the newest version of Encore Pro software, v1.6i. Upgrades are provided free of charge to existing Encore customers.
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46. Are there differences between the data the Plus collects and the data the Pro and Auto will collect? What are they?
Yes, the key difference is therapy data. The Plus collects and reports on basic patterns of use including total therapy hours, blower hours and percentage of time on therapy. The Pro and Auto reports on the same patterns of use and more advanced therapy data including AHI, Snore and Leak. For example, AHI, Snore and Leak help clinicians verify the efficacy of the therapy provided and to quickly identify root cause of many patient issues such as inadequate pressure levels, mask leak, etc.
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47. Which REMstar M Series models will function with the Smart Card module?
The REMstar Plus, Pro and Auto all function with a SmartCard module. The module comes standard with the Pro and Auto and is optional with the REMstar Plus.
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48. Can the M Series Heated Humidifier be used on its own without connecting it to the device? If not, are the humidifier controls built into the device like they are on the REMstar Legacy products?
The heated humidifier cannot be used on its own without the device. The power to the humidifier is activated by the blower inside of the device. Once the blower is turned on, the humidifier is activated and can be set to six different settings, 0-5 with 0 being no humidification. The easy-turn dial is built into the humidifier unit.
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49. What differences are there between the M Series Plus and the M Series Pro?
The key differences between the REMStar Plus and Pro include: a) Altitude adjustment - Plus is manual, Pro is automatic... b) Download compliance - Plus has optional basic patterns of use, Pro comes standard with AHI, Snore and Leak therapy data
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50. What are the dimensions of the M Series line of products?
The length is 7.5 inches. Width is 5 inches, and the device is just over 3 inches high.
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51. Are there any travel accessories for the M Series Sleep Systems?
Yes. Through your homecare provider, Respironics offers a Travel Pack which includes a zippered Accessory Pouch that holds your mask and tubing as well as a Compact Travel Case that protects your device and power supply. Both pieces fit nicely in your luggage.
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52. What masks can I use with the REMstar M Series?
REMstar M Series Sleep systems are compatible with all Respironics' masks and many others. We recommend the new Respironics ComfortLite 2 that was featured on Talkaboutsleep last month! It offers three interchangeable cushion options and a unique headgear system that leaves no pressure points on the face.
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53. How can I learn more about the REMstar M Series?
Please refer to our website at mseries.respironics.com where we offer extensive information and interactive media. We also have video demonstrations of the device features and functionality.
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© 2000-2008 TALK ABOUT SLEEP, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Talk About Sleep, Inc.
14480 Ewing Ave So. Suite 102
Burnsville, MN 55306
Telephone (952) 358-7070
Fax (952) 358-7077