Need Help With Recommendation on a 12VDC ? 120VAC Type Cpap Bipap for Camping

[srlevine1]

thanks
So that confuses me a little. is the 12/24 volt converter selectable 12VDC or 24VDC output. Or does the machine run on 24VDC. with an internal 12 to 24 volt DC converter. Not sure why you would use the converter if it runs internally on 12VDC although I can see polarity issue of not correct polarization. I'm guessing also there isn't a 3 wire handshake issue with the power supply on the S8. Or is there?
Also, is the 12VDC input a proprietary resmed size fitting? or standard off the shelf DC fitting?

Thanks

The machine runs on 12-volts. The DC-DC converter brick accepts 12-24v and outputs clean, electrically isolated power. The system will shut-down the system when the battery voltage falls to a specific level (I think it is 10.5 volts input.) Re: polarity, I believe it is an off-the-shelf standard barrel connector with center negative. Remember, the humidifier will not run with 12-volt power. 

Note: the DC power adapters are specific to the device model and are not interchangeable.  The DC-12 S8 converters only outputs 12 volts. 

Again, the price of the converter compared to replacing or repairing a machine appears to be a cheap insurance policy.

[ConnCarl]

I second the recommendation for the S8 as a great little AC/DC machine.

During a couple of lengthy power outages related to storms, I used my S8 with a Die Hard 750 portable jump starter from Sears, and an Evercell Heavy-Duty 12V/5A Power cord from Radio Shack (part number 270-048, $12.99).  Worked like a charm, although if you have room in the budget, you should probably pony up the quag for the proprietary ResMed adapter with the secret toasted-in frosting.

[Asparky]

Thanks guys that helps a lot..

Good to know humidifier will only work with AC power, and the reminder about the converters.

I looked at the #2 supplier and I think Im reading it right that they want a ton of money more for the S8 and Humidifier. I might give them a call tomorrow and find out. A couple hundred for a decent S8 isn't to bad at all but their pricing is kind of confusing. Different prices on different pages and a lot of $$$ difference.

Anyone else with a good recommendation for a BiPAP VPAP type Machine that will work directly off of 12VDC and AC? Looking for one for a few hundred $$$

I might get the 10S Converter just to have in case of a power outage at home. I have a lot of Charged 12VDC batteries always charged up and a small Honda generator to charge them that burns very little gas. With what I was doing with my apneas causing stroke like symptoms I want to have a machine handy and able to use nightly

I guess I'll look for a GOOD RESMED S8 Elite II that someone would like to get rid of for a reasonable price. or maybe a different 12VDC machine.

Thanks guys.. Still looking for recommendations or suggestions for a AC/DC BiPAP VPAP machines.

Ron

[srlevine1]

About that generator: the general rule is that you never plug anything into the generator power sockets without some form of power filter to clean up the varying voltages, frequency, and dirty power spikes and surges that seems to be produced by the cheaper commercial units designed to power tools and not electronics. Always use the generator to run a battery charger to charge your batteries. 

Even with our massive CAT generator with voltage regulation and power conditioning, we use APC Symmetra power units -- we use the generator to charge batteries with the power being filtered through our APC Symmetra units.

[Asparky]

Yes, that's what I meant I would just use to charge up my batteries in an emergency. I also have the large gen in My motorhome if needed. The small Honda is great on gas and has charged many a battery. It also can be used to charge my MH battery if it runs down to much to start the MH. Its crazy but there's only 1 battery in my MH and hard to find a place to put another one. Ive always had 2 batteries with isolator switches in all the pickups I've had, both gas and diesel ones. Always a full battery when one runs down..
Thanks
Ron

[ConnCarl]

<snip>

I guess I'll look for a GOOD RESMED S8 Elite II that someone would like to get rid of for a reasonable price. or maybe a different 12VDC machine.

Thanks guys.. Still looking for recommendations or suggestions for a AC/DC BiPAP VPAP machines.

Ron

Have you considered a used machine, Ron?

The S8 ain't exactly last year's Lexus.  I think if you know where to look, you could probably find them stacked up like cordwood.

For example, my DME has given me a couple of machines to try over the years, and usually doesn't ask for them back.  I asked my rep about that years ago, and he was very candid with me.  He said that company policy prevents selling used machines anyway, so they just use them for loaners for the most part, and they get back more than they could ever use.  They have them, in his words, "stacked to the rafters".  He did say they donate machines to sleep centers and the American Lung Society for distribution to folks with few resources or no insurance.

There's also a robust secondary market, but you have to know where to look.  eBay doesn't allow xPAP machine sales, but you can find them on alternative auction sites like eCrater and eBid.  I think if I wanted one, I'd just post a Craigslist ad.  Probably score one for $50 or so.

[Asparky]

I was going to see my provider today and got off on another tangent. I'll be blunt with him and see what I can score if anything. not really happy with the service on DME stuff from him anyway. maybe I can score. $50 would be great lol
Thanks
Ron

[ConnCarl]

I was going to see my provider today and got off on another tangent. I'll be blunt with him and see what I can score if anything. not really happy with the service on DME stuff from him anyway. maybe I can score. $50 would be great lol
Thanks
Ron

Hey, no problem, Ron.  The most important thing is to keep an open mind.  

You scan score used CPAP gear in the strangest places, and when you do, it's often pennies on the dollar.  Estate sales, for example.  Oh, and if you have an international airport near you, ask about abandoned/lost luggage auctions.  CPAP machines are very easy to spot (you're looking for custom-fitted nylon bags with "ResMed" emblems) and there's not much competition for them.

Good luck!

Carl

[Asparky]

Thanks for the ideas Carl

Ron

[GWild]

I haven't checked prices recently, but a new machine was under $1,000 for an APAP like mine:
Philips Respironics System One (60 Series) RemStar Auto with A-Flex

The rental phase deductibles and final 'purchase' on one plan I was on actually cost more out of pocket than buying outright. The servicing company was taking the customer and the insurance to the cleaners, and the total 'rental' price was well over $4,000. Deductible was 25% if I recall.

You might want to do a little more research.