The main function of this unit is capnography. With the extension using additional sensors it can become a complete respiratory survey and monitoring system.

Basic Capnography Function
The capnograph is equipped with a built—in highly sensitive infrared spectroscopy CO2 sensor. The sensor is pressure and temperature compensated. The very low volume of the sensor, the optimized system volume and the application of a micro—pump allow very accurate monitoring of respiratory CO2 concentration on small animals. The Capnograph also includes electronic compensation for interference introduced to signals during NO2 anesthesia administration.

Extended Functions (optional)
The Capnograph can be equipped with two additional sensors. A pressure sensor for measuring tracheal pressure and a pneumotach with differential pressure transducer for measuring respiratory airflow. These sensors are mounted directly on the tracheal or intubation cannula and connected to the control unit, this serves to minimize the dead space. The tracheal pressure and the respiratory flow are important signals to monitor mechanical ventilation when using a respirator. This aids avoidance or barotraumatic ventilation and indicates the efficiency of the ventilation.

The evaluated parameters are:
• Peak Inspiratory Flow
• Peak Expiratory Flow
• Peak Inspiratory Pressure
• Tidal Volume
• Respiratory Rate

Settings
All the settings are done using the display and keypad on the front panel. The settings can also be downloaded by software via a RS232 (optionally USB) port on the back panel.

Output
The following signals are available as analog signals on the rear of the unit:
• CO2 Waveform
• End expiratory CO2 (etCO2)

In extended version:
• Respiratory Flow
• Tracheal Pressure
• Respiratory Rate
• Tidal Volume