Stationary and mobile use

Welcome to another Knowledge Nugget presented by CORTEX. Today we'll clarify the difference between stationary and mobile application in cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and understand how CORTEX meets those needs in different environments. In detail, the content of the video includes the application of CPET in different fields, the flexibility of CORTEX devices in different environments, and MetaSoft® Studio, the software that both these devices share.

The application of spiroergometry in a stationary mode is usually conducted with systems designed to be used strictly in a fixed location, in various hospital rooms, clinics, laboratories or performance labs. On the other hand, mobile application systems have the ability to overcome that barrier and promote testing in the natural environment of certain sports, such as trail running, cycling, rowing or even at the pool.

Medical professionals usually opt for a stationary device, since all testing procedures are conducted in a confined clinical setting and devices are always dependent on a power supply. But with CORTEX that is not the case. The METALYZER® 3B also has the possibility to function with an internal long-lasting battery, instantly transforming the device into a portable solution. Thus, relocation to another area becomes possible and effortless, considering also its small size. Rare gas calibration cycles, only once a month, give flexibility and save time on day-to-day measurements. Moreover, the interface of the METALYZER to multiple ECG devices allows for a complete medical setup in a clinical environment.

Of course, when considering indoor use, the METAMAX® 3B can be just as flexible. With its stationary kit, the METAMAX can be converted into a complete stationary device. The application of the METAMAX in different fields is limitless: from outdoor measurement, targeting directly the point of interest, all the way to extreme climates such as cold, heat and moist weather conditions, even testing at high altitude. Control of the measurement is feasible via the workstation computer, laptop or tablet, or it can be used in a self-sufficient mode, where the subject can control the testing procedure by using different functions featured on the hardware. The live data can be monitored on any of the above-mentioned control panels in order to view the parameters of interest, although a PC or laptop is required to evaluate the information.

Continuing with the advantages of the METAMAX: it provides the user not only with alternative modes, such as the stationary or mobile setup, but its versatility extends to integrating external devices such as GPS, power meters and more. Its light weight and comfort make it preferable among sports scientists and performance coaches, and it is easily accepted by the test subjects. The long-range antenna makes it possible to track live data at distances exceeding 1,000 m. The data collected is automatically saved and stored on the hardware, and at any moment it can then be transferred to the PC for analysis. On the METAMAX, too, gas calibration is needed only once a month.

Last but not least, MetaSoft® Studio is the strongest link between those two devices. Regardless of stationary or mobile mode, MetaSoft Studio complements both devices in a very user-friendly and intuitive style. With only a few steps, your work protocol and patient data are complete and you're ready to test. Depending on your needs, the software can be configured to minimize irrelevant information and positively maximize the user experience.

To summarize, CORTEX, with its products, can fulfill and adjust to any needs required by the operator when conducting CPET. The METALYZER is not just a stationary device but rather a flexible, portable solution that allows its users to change testing venues instantly. The METAMAX, on the other hand, with its mobile nature, can meet extraordinary demands exactly at the location of interest. And finishing off with MetaSoft Studio, the software that makes all this possible: a software that simplifies the test procedure and provides a state-of-the-art analysis experience. Thank you for watching.