Going Mini - The Mini CPAP Is More Than Just a Travel Device

By Admin

While there may be less traveling going on due to the current pandemic, the popularity of travel-size CPAP devices does not seem to have diminished as a result. In fact, health concerns due to the coronavirus have only increased the need for sturdy, reliable devices that are adaptable to changing circumstances. Whether used as a travel device or for everyday therapy needs, portable machines, or mini CPAPs, are equipped with the same advanced features as their larger counterparts, but with the added bonus of a smaller, lighter, and more compact design. Travel-size CPAPs are popular for many reasons, but one of the main reasons is their convenience. They are efficient machines that take up very little space, and very little power in comparison to other, larger models. This is not only convenient for travel, but also for storage, handling, mobility, and even discreteness. While traveling may be restricted due to COVID, camping and enjoying the outdoors is as popular as ever, and having sleep apnea should never stop you from making the most of your free time. A travel-size device allows you to continue with therapy in any circumstances, and with the addition of external batteries for extended power, they can last for days between charges. If you have sleep apnea, you always want to have a CPAP device available, and a smaller, lighter device makes it easier to bring around, whether you’re packing for travel or going into the next room to lay down. While new PAP-therapy models are getting more compact and efficient in a general sense, travel-size options like the ResMed AirMini, the Philips DreamStation Go, and the Somnetics Transcend Mini CPAP, are still much smaller and lighter than other machines on the market, and without the loss of any features you would expect from an advanced, cutting-edge PAP-therapy device.

The Benefits of Going Mini

Travel CPAP machines are extremely popular for their size, convenience, and limited power needs. Small enough to fit in a suitcase pocket, a mini CPAP device can be carried around without difficulty, and without the need for large carrying cases. They are durable, long-lasting, and sleek in appearance, and lIke other popular devices on the market, current travel-size models have automated capabilities (APAP), default pressure settings, and can display therapy data on multiple platforms. In a sense, travel devices represent the ideal CPAP design, complete with the latest in PAP-therapy technologies wrapped in a compact, lightweight package.

In addition to the benefits of having a small, light, sleek, and long-lasting device with the latest in advanced PAP-therapy technologies, a mini machine can also be charged using a vehicle lighter without taking up too much space in the process. As long as the car battery is working, the device can be charged from it. In the same way, a travel device can be charged using an external battery, a DC cable converter, or using an additional generator such as a solar panel to continue using the device outdoors. With low power needs, a smaller device makes for easy use when you’re on the move. Another benefit is ease of use. Travel devices are purposefully simplistic in design, with very few setup requirements and easy cleaning and maintenance.

What Makes It a Mini?

While there is no strict definition of a travel-size or mini CPAP device, they are normally smaller, lighter, more compact, and smoother in shape to allow for easy packing and optimal portability. Travel-size machines should also run for an extensive period of time on batteries, and multiple battery charging options help as well. To be considered ideal for traveling and accessorizing, a mini CPAP will also include a carrying case, though just about any case or suitcase will have pockets available for such purposes. In addition, any travel machine should be FAA compliant for use on airlines or other travel options. In most cases, a travel-size or mini CPAP will be recognizable by size alone, since they are much smaller and more compact in design than standard machines.

Minis and Humidifiers

When travel-size CPAP devices initially hit the market a few years back, one of the concerns was how to use a humidifier with a smaller device. This was much more of an issue in the beginning, and companies have since developed humidification options for their travel models. The DreamStation Go, which is a little larger and heavier than the competitors, offers an optional heated humidifier with water-saving technology. Simple tap water can be used with the DreamStation Go humidifier, and it uses less water than many of its larger competitors. Similar to the DreamStation Go, the Somnetics Transcend 3 includes an optional humidifier and a P10 battery for additional power usage. The Transcend 365 model, which is only slightly larger than the Transcend 3, has an integrated humidifier, making it “the world’s lightest integrated CPAP and heated humidifier,” according to the company. For the AirMini, ResMed chose a waterless humidifier called HumidX, which is based on heat and moisture exchange technology. HumidX is a standard waterless humidificaiton system, while another version, HumidX Plus, is optimized for dry and high-altitude environments where humidity levels are lower. While HumidX works in any environment, some sources suggest that a higher moisture environment is better for standard waterless humidifiers. Therefore, if you live in a high desert area like New Mexico, you may want to consider HumidX Plus.

The Devices: AirMini, DreamStation Go, and Transcend 3, 365

Philips DreamStation Go Portable CPAP

The DreamStation Go advances the Dreamstation product line with the smallest, lightest, and most travel-friendly Philips model to date.This highly advanced and intelligent auto-CPAP system provides on-the-go portability without compromising on the performance, durability, and advanced connectivity features users have come to expect from the Dreamstation brand. And with an integrated battery pack and optional heated humidifier designed specifically for the Dreamstation Go model, this option is ideal for travel needs as well as everyday breathing support for those with a busy schedule.

Specs and Features

The DreamStation Go is the lightest of the DreamStation product line, weighing roughly 1.85 lbs on its own, approximately 2.9 lbs. with humidifier, and 3.4 lbs. with the integrated battery (see USA.Philips.com for more details). While slightly heavier than AirMini or the Transcend models, the DreamStation Go packs a lot of high-performance power into a compact machine only 5.9 inches in length and 2.3 inches in height (slightly larger with battery and/or humidifier). And with a whisper-quiet motor (30 dBa), the DreamStation Go provides cutting-edge comfort for any setting, at home or on the road.

Operations

As an auto-CPAP machine, the Philips DreamStation Go makes real-time pressure adjustments to match patient breathing, but also provides relief during exhalation to enhance comfort and ensure a pleasant therapy experience. The DreamStation Go also has its own system of pressure relief known as Flex Relief, which includes three settings to allow for individual preferences in the amount of relief during exhalation. The DreamStation Go also includes a standard touchscreen for easy-access settings, centrally located and highly intuitive, given its size. All DreamStation Go features can be accessed with its touchscreen.

Integrated Battery Pack

The DreamStation Go includes an optional built-in power supply to reduce components and increase convenience. As with the rest of the device, the integrated lithium ion battery is FAA approved for commercial flights, completely rechargeable, compact, and light (1.5 lbs.). With up to 13 hours of battery power available as a backup, travel with the DreamStation Go is reliable even in remote locations where standard power outlets may not be available.

Micro-Flexible Tubing

The DreamStation Go uses micro-flexible tubing designed for maximum flexibility during therapy. At 12mm in diameter, this tubing is the thinnest available CPAP tubing with high-volume capabilities. Lightweight tubing also reduces the chance for mask drag or leakage, ensuring a secure fit throughout the night. Philips Respironics micro-flexible tubing fits any mask type and connects to the DreamStation Go device with a simple, secure attachment at its base.

ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP

Measuring 5.4 inches long and 3.3 inches wide, and weighing less than a pound, the ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP machine is the lightest device on the list. Like the DreamStation Go, this model provides everything you need for comprehensive treatment in the smallest package possible. While the AirMini is not compatible with all CPAP masks, it is designed for the ResMed product line, fitting the AirFit N20, AirFit F20, AirTouch F20, and the AirFit P10 mask (see ResMed.com for more info). The AirMini also uses thin tubing that is six feet in length, giving users plenty of room between the device and their sleeping position. The AirMini is also extremely quiet in comparison to other models, measuring only 25 dBa. Like the DreamStation Go, the AirMini is an automated device, complete with pressure relief, auto-start, and auto-ramp. The auto-ramp feature adjusts slowly to user profiles, easing pressure in increments toward the prescribed level. To initiate therapy, the user simply places the mask over the face and begins breathing. The first breath will initiate therapy. The AirMini expiratory relief has two levels, one for standard relief during exhalation, and a higher level for even lower pressure (lowered by 2cm H20 increments). Users can also switch to standard CPAP mode if APAP is not preferred.

Specs and Features

The AirMini is compact and rectangular with rounded edges, giving it an extremely sleek appearance and makes it very easy to slip into pockets or carry bags when you're on the go. Being that small and compact also makes the AirMini extremely durable, able to withstand falls or rough travel without issue. This device is popular for its size, but also for its strength, appearance, features, and easy-to-use controls. An all around quality product in a small but highly effective package.

Operations

As an auto-CPAP machine, the AirMini makes real-time pressure adjustments to match patient breathing, but it also allows for CPAP mode to operate with a single pressure setting. While the touchscreen capabilities are slightly more limited than those of the DreamStation Go, the most important settings of the AirMini are still easily accessible for navigating and displaying therapy data as needed via the AirMini smartphone app.

Somnetics Transcend 3 and 365 MiniCPAP

Both the Transcend 3 and the Transcend 365 models made by the company Somnetics are travel-size devices. The Transcend brand, while not as widespread as ResMed or Philips Respironics products, have the benefit of being specialized for the MiniCPAP market. Somnetics also specializes in backup power options such as the Transcend P8 multi-night battery and the Transcend solar power generator, both compatible with the Transcend line. The Transcend 3 and the Transcend 365 have a sleek design, a flat silicone base, and a swivel nozzle for all around comfort and reach. Like the DreamStation Go and ResMed AirMini, the Transcend models are automated devices, able to adjust pressure settings according to patient needs. Providing on-the-go portability without compromising on performance, these models give users exactly what they have come to expect from modern CPAP products.

Specs and Features

The Transcend 3

The Transcend 3 miniCPAP weighs just over a pound (1.09 lbs.), only slightly heavier than the ResMed AirMini, and is 7.5 by 3.7 inches (see Mytranscend.com for more info). Very compact and rugged in appearance, the Transcend 3 has more power options than any other CPAP machine available, including both battery and solar power.

The Transcend 365

The Transcend 365 weighs 1.7 lbs., and is 7.8 by 3.8 by 4.5 inches, slightly larger than the Transcend 3. This model includes integrated smart humidifier technology, a first in fully integrated and heated humidification for portable CPAP products. The humidifier also uses patented Capillary Force Vaporizer (CFV) technology, which saves water and reduces rainout (excess moisture buildup). The Transcend 365 is fully powered by a single P10 battery, providing enough for both the device and the humidifier for a complete night of sleep.

Should You Go Mini?

Whether or not a travel CPAP is ideal for your situation depends on many factors. As always, we recommend that you seek the advice of a medical professional or primary-care physician before making a choice about medical products, especially one as important as a CPAP machine. But if you know what your needs are, and you’re interested in the advantages these devices offer, you may want to contact a company representative or a CPAP DME retailer. SistemmaCPAP.com is always available for contact via email, chat, or phone call. Let us know what your questions or concerns are, and we’ll do our best to answer them as clearly and as promptly as we can.