Fluke Biomedical warrants this instrument against defects in materials and workmanship
for one year from the date of original purchase. During the warranty period, we will
repair or at our option replace, at no charge, a product that proves to be defective,
provided you return the product, shipping prepaid, to Fluke Biomedical. This warranty
covers the original purchaser only and is not transferable. The warranty does not apply if
the product has been damaged by accident or misuse or has been serviced or modified by
anyone other than an authorized Fluke Biomedical service facility. NO OTHER
WARRANTIES, SUCH AS FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL,
INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES,
INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
This warranty covers only serialized products and their accessory items that bear a
distinct serial number tag. Recalibration of instruments is not covered under the warranty
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights that vary
in different jurisdictions. Since some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of an implied warranty or of incidental or consequential damages, this limitation of
liability may not apply to you. If any provision of this warranty is held invalid or
unenforceable by a court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding
will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision.
Fluke Biomedical agrees to a limited copyright release that allows you to reproduce manuals and other printed materials for use in
service training programs and other technical publications. If you would like other reproductions or distributions, submit a written
request to Fluke Biomedical.
Unpacking and Inspection
Follow standard receiving practices upon receipt of the instrument. Check the shipping carton for damage. If damage is found, stop
unpacking the instrument. Notify the carrier and ask for an agent to be present while the instrument is unpacked. There are no special
unpacking instructions, but be careful not to damage the instrument when unpacking it. Inspect the instrument for physical damage such
as bent or broken parts, dents, or scratches.
Technical Support
For application support or answers to technical questions, either email techservices@flukebiomedical.com or call 1-800- 850-4608 ext
2560 or 1-440-498-2560.
Claims
Our routine method of shipment is via common carrier, FOB origin. Upon delivery, if physical damage is found, retain all packing
materials in their original condition and contact the carrier immediately to file a claim. If the instrument is delivered in good physical
condition but does not operate within specifications, or if there are any other problems not caused by shipping damage, please contact
Fluke Biomedical or your local sales representative.
Standard Terms and Conditions
Refunds and Credits
Please note that only serialized products and their accessory items (i.e., products and items bearing a distinct serial number
tag) are eligible for partial refund and/or credit. Nonserialized parts and accessory items (e.g., cables, carrying cases,
auxiliary modules, etc.) are not eligible for return or refund. Only products returned within 90 days from the date of original
purchase are eligible for refund/credit. In order to receive a partial refund/credit of a product purchase price on a serialized product, the
product must not have been damaged by the customer or by the carrier chosen by the customer to return the goods, and the product
must be returned complete (meaning with all manuals, cables, accessories, etc.) and in “as new” and resalable condition. Products not
returned within 90 days of purchase, or products which are not in “as new” and resalable condition, are not eligible for credit return and
will be returned to the customer. The Return Procedure (see below) must be followed to assure prompt refund/credit.
Restocking Charges
Products returned within 30 days of original purchase are subject to a minimum restocking fee of 15 %. Products returned in excess of
30 days after purchase, but prior to 90 days, are subject to a minimum restocking fee of 20 %. Additional charges for damage and/or
missing parts and accessories will be applied to all returns.
Return Procedure
All items being returned (including all warranty-claim shipments) must be sent freight-prepaid to our factory location. When you return
an instrument to Fluke Biomedical, we recommend using United Parcel Service, Federal Express, or Air Parcel Post. We also
recommend that you insure your shipment for its actual replacement cost. Fluke Biomedical will not be responsible for lost shipments
or instruments that are received in damaged condition due to improper packaging or handling.
Use the original carton and packaging material for shipment. If they are not available, we recommend the following guide for
repackaging:
Use a double-walled carton of sufficient strength for the weight being shipped.
Use heavy paper or cardboard to protect all instrument surfaces. Use nonabrasive material around all projecting parts.
Use at least four inches of tightly packed, industry-approved, shock-absorbent material around the instrument.
Returns for partial refund/credit:
Every product returned for refund/credit must be accompanied by a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number, obtained from our
Order Entry Group at 1-800- 850-4608 ext 2560 or 1-440-498-2560.
Repair and calibration:
To find the nearest service center, go to www.flukebiomedical.com/service
In the U.S.A.:
Cleveland Calibration Lab
Tel: 1-800-850-4606
Email: globalcal@flukebiomedical.com
In Europe, Middle East, and Africa:
Eindhoven Calibration Lab
Tel: +31-402-675300
Email: ServiceDesk@fluke.com
In Asia:
Everett Calibration Lab
Tel: +425-446-6945
Email: mailto:service.international@fluke.com
, or
Certification
This instrument was thoroughly tested and inspected. It was found to meet Fluke Biomedical’s manufacturing specifications when it
was shipped from the factory. Calibration measurements are traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Devices for which there are no NIST calibration standards are measured against in-house performance standards using accepted test
procedures.
WARNING
Unauthorized user modifications or application beyond the published specifications may result in electrical shock hazards or
improper operation. Fluke Biomedical will not be responsible for any injuries sustained due to unauthorized equipment
modifications.
Restrictions and Liabilities
Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a commitment by Fluke Biomedical. Changes made
to the information in this document will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. No responsibility is assumed by
Fluke Biomedical for the use or reliability of software or equipment that is not supplied by Fluke Biomedical, or by its
affiliated dealers.
Manufacturing Location
The VT PLUS HF Gas Flow Analyzer is manufactured in Everett, Washington by Fluke Biomedical, 6920 Seaway Blvd.,
Everett, WA, U.S
Table of Contents
Chapter Title Page
1 Introduction and Specifications......................................................... 1-1
The VT Plus HF Gas Flow Analyzer, referred to hereafter as the Analyzer, is a generalpurpose, gas flow analyzer with special modes for testing mechanical patient ventilators.
The Analyzer measures bidirectional flow in both high and low ranges, as well as highand low-pressure ranges. Users control the unit using the command system or a special
control mode that uses RT200-style commands. Multiple special-function tests allow
efficient troubleshooting.
The Analyzer can measure either high- or low-flow and pressure, eliminating the need for
gauges and flow meters. It measures 21 ventilator parameters and can display all of them
on one screen. Results can be printed directly from the unit or from Windows-compatible
software on a PC. The Analyzer also has onboard graphing capability and shows the
minimum, maximum, average, and absolute measurement for all parameters.
This manual provides a description of the Analyzer and its applications. It should be used
as a guide when using the instrument to analyze a ventilator and test lung.
Key Features
• Bi-directional flow, low- and high-pressure, volume, and oxygen concentration, and
pressure measurements
• Very high-frequency measurement capability – up to 900 BPM (15 Hz)
• RS232 and printer ports
• Included Windows-compatible graphics software
• Minimum, maximum, average, absolute, and graph for all parameters
• All 21ventilator parameters displayed on one screen simultaneously
• Operation by user-friendly command mode or RT200 command mode
• Operation with a variety of precision test lungs available from Fluke Biomedical to
complete a fully NIST-traceable ventilator test
• Tests the leak rate of a sealed vessel or test lung
• Tests whether a predetermined parameter deviates from limits set by the user
• Useful for pre-purchase evaluations of ventilators, incoming and routine performance
verification, troubleshooting clinical problems, and teaching principles of mechanical
ventilation
Unpacking and Inspection
Use the following checklist when unpacking the Analyzer. There are no special
unpacking instructions, but be careful not to damage the instrument when unpacking it.
• Inspect the shipping carton for damage. If the shipping carton is damaged, carefully
continue unpacking the instrument and note any dents and scratches on the Analyzer.
Save the damaged shipping carton and packing material for the carrier’s inspection.
• If there is no shipping damage, continue removing the Analyzer from the shipping
case. Save the box and packing materials.
Note
This box contains specifically designed inserts to ensure safe shipment of
the Analyzer. Please save these for return of the unit for service or
calibration.
1-3
VT Plus HF
Operators Manual
General Safety Considerations
Symbols
• Perform a visual inspection to ensure that the Analyzer is intact and if there is any
physical damage, such as bent or broken parts, dents, or scratches. If the Analyzer
has been damaged, call the Fluke Biomedical Service Center immediately. If the
Analyzer be returned to Fluke for service, follow the procedure given under
Maintenance, Service, and Calibration: Packing Instructions.
• After unpacking the Analyzer, check to see if all of the standard accessories listed
under Accessories have been included with the Analyzer. If anything is missing,
contact the Fluke Biomedical Service Center.
Read the Users Manual before operating the Analyzer.
Table 1-1 describes the symbols associated with the Analyzer.
Table 1-1. Symbols
Symbol Description
X Hazardous voltage
W Important information; refer to manual
Œ Conforms to UL Std 3101-1; certified to Can/USA Std C22.2 No. 1010.1
P Conforms to European Union directives
~
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste. Go to Fluke’s
website for recycling information.
Hg Contains mercury. Dispose properly.
Warnings and Cautions
A Warning identifies hazardous conditions and actions that could cause bodily harm or
death.
A Caution identifies conditions and actions that could damage the Analyzer, the
equipment under test, or cause permanent loss of data.
To avoid possible electrical shock or personal injury, follow
these guidelines:
• Use this Analyzer only in the manner specified by the
manufacturer.
• Do not use the product if it operates abnormally.
XW Warning
1-4
• Plug the main power cord only into a power outlet that has a
protective earth contact to connect the chassis of the Analyzer to
ground.
• Do not use extension cords without earth ground, or a hazardous
condition may result.
• Turn off the Analyzer and disconnect its power cord before
opening the case or performing any service procedures.
Introduction and Specifications
Instrument Familiarity 1
W Caution
To avoid damage to the Analyzer or adverse affects on its
performance, follow these guidelines:
• Do not expose the system to temperature extremes.
Ambient temperatures should remain between 10 °C and
40 °C. System performance may be adversely affected if
temperatures fluctuate above or below this range.
• Clean the Analyzer only by wiping it down with a clean, lint-
free cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution. A
solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol may be used to remove
stains and clean the system. No other solvents are
recommended. Do not spray liquid directly on or immerse
the unit.
Instrument Familiarity
Figure 1-1 shows the top and right panels of the Analyzer.
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Figure 1-1. Front and Right Analyzer Panels
1-5
VT Plus HF
Operators Manual
Front Panel
Right Panel
The components of the front panel are listed in Table 1-2. See Front Panel Details for
detailed descriptions of front panel components.
Table 1-2. Front Panel Components
Label Description
A LCD Display with CFL backlight
B Contrast, Pause/resume, print, and help keys
C Soft keys
D Test Mode keys
The components of the right panel of the Analyzer are described in Table 1-3.
Table 1-3. Right Panel Components
Label Description
E Low Pressure (+) Gas Or Fluid Port
F Low Pressure (-) Dry Gas Only Port
G High Pressure (+) Gas Or Fluid Port
H High Pressure (-) Dry Gas Only Port
I Low Flow Inlet
J High Flow And Oxygen Inlet
Figure 1-2 shows the rear and left panels of the Analyzer.
1-6
Introduction and Specifications
1
Instrument Familiarity 1
Rear Panel
The components of the back panel are listed in Table 1-4.
Label Description
2
3
4
5
Figure 1-2. Rear and Left Analyzer Panels
Table 1-4. Back Panel Components
A RS232 Serial Port
B Parallel Printer Port
C Power Switch
D Power Cord Input
E Oxygen Sensor Access
7
6
fec121.eps
Left Panel
The components of the left panel are listed in Table 1-5.
Table 1-5. Left Panel Components
Label Description
F High-Flow Exhaust Port
G Low-Flow Exhaust Port
1-7
VT Plus HF
Operators Manual
Front Panel Details
Figure 1-3 shows details of the Analyzer front panel, and Table 1-6 describes the various
keys, their icons, and functions.
VT PLUS HF
GAS FLOW ANALYZER
TEST MODES
1-8
Figure 1-3. Analyzer Front Panel
Table 1-6. Front Panel Functions
Icon Name Function
E
F
Contrast Adjustment This key adjusts the screen contrast to match the user’s
preference. Each time the key is pressed, the screen becomes
lighter. When the minimum contrast is reached, the screen is set
to the maximum contrast and the screen can be made lighter
until the preferred setting is achieved.
Pause/Resume This key pauses the plots and numeric data on the screen to
allow further examination of the data, or for transcription of the
data by the user. After the screen has been paused, a second
press of the Pause/Resume key resumes the plot. Note: The
Analyzer stops sampling the transducers while in the Pause
mode.
fec011.eps
Introduction and Specifications
Table 1-6. Functions (cont.)
Icon Name Function
Instrument Familiarity 1
G
H
D
:
;
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Print This key prints the current data to the printer. The mode and
format of the printout is set using the printer options function
selected under the setup menu.
Help This key displays help for any screen. A brief description of the
screen and of the options available from that screen is provided
when help is pressed.
Soft Keys These are four programmable keys located directly below the
display. Each display mode has unique options assigned to its
soft keys.
FLOW/0 Key This key selects the flow mode on the Analyzer. The flow mode
displays signal, instantaneous numeric value and statistical data
for the high or low flow signal. This key is also the 0 key for
numeric data entry.
PRESSURE/1 Key This key selects the pressure mode. The pressure mode
displays the signal, instantaneous numeric value, and statistical
data for the high, low, or airway pressure signal. This key is also
the 1 key for numeric data entry.
VOLUME/2 Key This key selects the volume mode. The volume mode displays
the signal, instantaneous numeric value, and statistical data for
the volume signal. This key is also the 2 key for numeric data
entry.
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O2/3 Key This key selects the oxygen mode. The oxygen mode displays
the signal, instantaneous numeric value and statistical data for
the oxygen signal. This key is also the 3 key for numeric data
entry.
MORE/4 Key This key selects other tests such as the Leak test and the Trend
test. This key is also the 4 key for numeric data entry.
FULL/5 Key This key selects the full breath parameters mode. The full mode
displays all of the breath parameters calculated by the Analyzer
following every breath. Note that one of the breath-detect
settings must be enabled to observe volume signals or data.
Refer to System Setup for breath detection settings. This key is
also the 5 key for numeric data entry.
MONITOR/6 Key This key selects the monitor mode. The monitor mode displays
the signal and instantaneous value for three of the signals
measured by the Analyzer. Alternatively, the lower of the three
plots may be replaced by selected breath parameters. The user
can select the signals and/or parameters that are displayed. This
key is also the 6 key for numeric data entry.
1-9
VT Plus HF
Operators Manual
Table 1-6. Functions (cont.)
Icon Name Function
A
B
C
ZERO/7 Key This key initiates the zero function in the Analyzer. All of the
pressure and differential pressure (flow) sensors in the Analyzer
must be periodically zeroed or calibrated to a zero reference.
When zero is selected, the device measures the zero value of
the selected signal for flow measuring. The Analyzer can be set
to periodically call of the zero function. Refer to System Setup
for Zero Mode Descriptions. This key is also the 7 key for
numeric data entry.
SETUP/8 Key This key accesses the Analyzer configuration and setup
screens. When this key is pressed, a menu is displayed. The
soft keys are used to navigate the menu. From this menu, other
sub-menus are accessible to adjust the various configuration
settings. The details of this menu and its sub-menus are
described later. This key is also the 8 key for numeric data entry.
PARAMETERS/9 Key This key selects which of the breath parameters are displayed in
the various modes. Each mode screen has space to display 4 of
the breath parameters. Using the parameters function, the four
breath parameters can be selected. Note that if 4 parameters
are already selected, then no more can be selected until one of
the previously selected parameters is cleared. Also note that the
parameters that are selected only apply to the screen that the
Analyzer was in when the parameters key was pressed. This
key is also the 9 key for numeric data entry.
Specifications
The following are general, performance, breath parameter accuracy specifications for the
Analyzer.
General Specifications
Display ................................................... 320 x 240 LCD with CFL backlight
Viewing Area ......................................... 3 in x 4 in (10.1 cm x 8.2 cm) Blue on white background
Operational Modes ............................... Manual mode for simple tests or troubleshooting; computer-control
Output Ports.......................................... RS232 serial port and parallel-printer port
Operating Environmental Conditions
Temperature Range........ ................ 10 °C to 40 °C
Ambient Humidity................... ......... 0 - 80 % non-condensing to 31 °C, decreasing to 50 % at 40 °C
Barometric Pressure......................... 8 to 18 psia
Vibration .......................................... Devices intended to be used on tabletop or other stable surface.
Storage Environmental Conditions
Temperature Range ........................-25 to 50 °C
Humidity........................................... 0 to 95 % non-condensing °C
Power Requirements
Maximum Over-voltage ...................264 V ac
Input Voltage Range .......................100 to 240 V ac
Input Frequency Range ................. 50/60 Hz
mode, using RS232 serial port for special applications; use of Analyzer
with VT for Windows PC software for recording graphs and logging
data to a computer
1-10
Introduction and Specifications
Power Consumption ....................... <132 VA
Fuse Rating .................................... 0.5 A, Slo-Blo
Fluid pressure may be applied to the positive port; however, fluids should
be kept from entering the pressure port by using a suitable length of
connection tubing.
Fluid pressure may be applied to the positive port; however, fluids should
be kept from entering the pressure port by using a suitable length of
connection tubing.