CWE CAPSTAR-100 User manual

CAPSTAR-100
End-Tidal CO2Analyzer
©CWE 2023
Read instructions carefully before operating this device.
This device is not to be used for Human Life Support applications.
To avoid possible electrical shock, do not operate this device if is wet or has had liquids spilled onto it.
Service or calibration procedures should only be performed by qualified personnel familiar with the
electrical hazards of line-powered devices.
Ardmore PA 19003 U.S.A.
[phone]
[email protected]
Instruction Manual
www.cwe-inc.com

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© 2023 CWE, Inc.
STATEMENT OF WARRANTY
IF THIS INSTRUMENT FAILS WITHIN A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE
OF DELIVERY OR INSTALLATION, CWE, INC. WILL, AT ITS OPTION, REPAIR OR
REPLACE IT FREE OF CHARGE TO THE PURCHASER. THIS WARRANTY
EXCLUDES DAMAGE INCURRED THROUGH ABUSE OR ACCIDENT AND
CONSUMABLE ITEMS OR COMPONENTS SUCH AS BATTERIES. CWE, INC. DOES
NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING
FROM THE USE OR MISUSE OF THIS INSTRUMENT. THIS WARRANTY IS
APPLICABLE ONLY TO THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF THE INSTRUMENT AND
IS NON-TRANSFERRABLE.
IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM
Please call or write describing your problem. We can often identify what is wrong and
suggest a solution without recourse to returning the device. Defective units under
warranty should be returned to the factory along with a note describing the nature of the
fault. Every effort will be made to ensure prompt repair or replacement of the device.
FACTORY SERVICE
Out of warranty or damaged instruments may be returned to the factory postage prepaid
for service at prevailing rates. Upon request, a written or verbal quotation for such
service will be issued after examination of the unit but prior to commencing repairs or
service. Address requests for service or technical information to:
CWE, Incorporated
Technical Support Department
TEL [phone]
[email protected]
LIFE SUPPORT POLICY
Instruments manufactured by CWE, Incorporated are not authorized for use as critical
components in human life support devices or systems. "Life support devices or
systems", as used herein, are devices or systems whose failure to perform, whether
through misuse, failure, or proper operation, can reasonably be expected to result in
significant injury to the operator or subject persons.
This document last updated on May 26, 2023

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© 2023 CWE, Inc.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................ 4
3.0 SETTING UP THE CAPSTAR-100................................................................ 6
4.0 OPERATION.................................................................................................. 7
4.1 SAMPLE FLOW............................................................................................. 7
4.11 MINIMIZING SAMPLE TUBING VOLUME .................................................. 7
4.12 CONDITIONING THE SAMPLE................................................................... 8
4.2 LCD DISPLAY ............................................................................................... 8
4.3 CALIBRATE FUNCTIONS............................................................................. 9
4.4 DISPLAY FUNCTIONS.................................................................................. 9
4.5 ALARM FUNCTIONS .................................................................................... 9
4.6 MISCELLANEOUS FUNCTIONS ................................................................ 10
4.7 CO2 OUTPUT SIGNAL................................................................................ 11
4.8 RS232 OUTPUT (REAR PANEL)................................................................ 11
5.0 CO2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURE ............................................................ 12
RECOMMENDED CALIBRATION SETUP DIAGRAM....................................... 12
6.0 MAINTENANCE........................................................................................... 13
7.0 ORDERING INFORMATION........................................................................ 13
TYPICAL SAMPLE CONNECTION DIAGRAM.................................................. 14

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© 2023 CWE, Inc.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The CAPSTAR-100 is a high-performance respiratory gas analyzer for the routine
monitoring of expired carbon dioxide and respiratory rate. The CO2sensor is a
temperature-controlled, infrared optical bench, which features fast response,
excellent accuracy, and long-term stability. End-tidal CO2(ETCO2) and respiratory
rate (RR) is computed on a breath-by-breath basis from the CO2excursions. The
unit is completely self- contained: the sensor, control electronics, displays, and
sampling pump are housed in a convenient benchtop enclosure, or rack-mountable
using optional rack-mount brackets.
The digital readout of CO2concentration shows either the instantaneous value, or
the peak end-tidal value. An analog output provides a linear voltage corresponding
to the current gas concentration. This output is directly compatible with most data
acquisition systems or recorders. A standard RS232 serial output is also provided,
which sends ETCO2and RR information in a variety of user-selectable formats.
The CAPSTAR-100 has built-in audible and visual alarms for detecting out-of-range
end-tidal CO2 or respiratory rate conditions. These alarms have adjustable high and
low limits, which are remembered by the instrument and reinstated when it is next
used.
Capstar-100 front panel

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2.0 SPECIFICATIONS
Carbon dioxide sensor.................................................................single beam infrared
Sample cell materials.................................................sapphire and stainless steel
Sample inlet connector .......................................................................Luer female
Measurement range.............................................................................0-10% CO2
Linearity ............................................................................................... 0.1% CO2
Repeatability..........................................................................................0.1% CO2
Response time (T10 - T90)....................................... 110mS at 60 ml/min sampling
Response time (T10 - T90) .....................................100mS at 100 ml/min sampling
Zero stability ....................................................... 0.1% (8 hours), 0.2% (24 hours)
Interference effects: 50% N2O .........0.1% at 0% CO2, 0.6% at 5% CO2(uncomp.)
N2O compensation .................................................................... .1% at 5% CO2
Maximum sample cell pressure.................................................................+ 5 psig
Interference effects: vaporized anesthetic agents...................................negligible
Operating temperature range.....................................................................5-40° C
Optical bench temperature ..........................................................48° C, controlled
Warm-up time.........................................................6 min to 0.2%, 10 min to 0.1%
Sample flow adjustment range.......................................................... 10 - 200 ml/min
Respiratory rate measurement range ......................................... 5 –120 breaths/min
Alarm adjustment range: ETCO2...............................................................1.0 –9.9%
Alarm adjustment range: Respiratory Rate ................................ 5 –120 breaths/min
Analog signal output .................................................................................BNC jacks
CO2 output scaling ............................................................................... 0.4V / %CO2
Serial data output format ............................... 9600 baud, 8 data, no parity, 1 stop bit
Power adapter (supplied) ........................................................................ 5VDC@4A
Mains requirements for power adapter.............................. 120VAC/220VAC universal
Dimensions ...........................................................9W x 4H x 9D in. (23 x 10 x 23cm)
Weight....................................................................................................4 lbs. (1.8kg)

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© 2023 CWE, Inc.
3.0 SETTING UP THE CAPSTAR-100
Place the CAPSTAR-100 control unit in a stable location close to the subject or
animal being monitored. When monitoring small animals, it is desirable to locate
the unit as close to the animal as possible, to minimize sample tube volume.
Attach the included 5V POWER ADAPTER to the rear-panel jack. Plug the included
mains power cord into a suitable grounded AC outlet.
Note: The supplied POWER ADAPTER is a universal type, and can be
used with any 120/230, 50/60Hz mains voltage.
Attach the sample tubing to the SAMPLE INLET port on the front panel. This should
be flexible tubing (Tygon or similar), with an inside diameter of 0.050 - 0.062" (1.25
- 1.60 mm). For long-term monitoring, it is recommended that the included Nafion
sample tubing be used. This tubing, recognizable by its braided appearance,
passes water vapor through its membrane, thus drying the sample gas. Whatever
tubing is used, be sure that the miniature in-line filter is always in place. This filter
is the final line of defense that prevents water from entering the sample cells.
Note: Never operate the instrument without the in-line
hydrophobic disk filter!
Switch POWER on. The graphic LCD display will come on, showing a “welcome”
message and the firmware version, followed by the main display screen. The
SAMPLE FLOW can be adjusted at this time.
The unit requires about ten minutes to warm up and stabilize. After about 5
minutes, the analyzer will be usable, with an accuracy of 0.2%. After 10 minutes,
the full rated accuracy of 0.1% will be available. Warm-up time depends on the
ambient temperature.
See the remainder of this manual for the various operating modes and controls.

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4.0 OPERATION
4.1 SAMPLE FLOW
The SAMPLE FLOW knob on the front panel is used to regulate the sample
flow to the sensing cell. This flow is internally measured by a mass flow
sensor and displayed on the display as: S:050cc
The response time of the analyzer is directly proportional to the sample
flow rate. Although the analyzer will work with rates as low as 10cc/min,
optimum response time is realized with sampling in the 35 –100 ml/min
range. To avoid depleting the available expired volume with mechanically
ventilated small animals, the analyzer sample flow can be returned to the
breathing circuit. This will result in a net volume change of zero. The
sample outlet port on the rear panel is provided for this purpose. Be sure
to return the volume to a point distal from the sample point to prevent
diluting the end-tidal sample.
For use with rodents and similar sized animals, special considerations are
necessary because of their very small volumes and fast respiratory rates.
The volume of the sample tubing must be as small as possible to prevent
sample dilution and minimize the gas transit time from the sample point to
the analyzer cell. Follow the instructions below to achieve optimal end-
tidal measurements with small animals.
4.11 MINIMIZING SAMPLE TUBING VOLUME
Ideally, the SAMPLE INLET should be connected directly to the
endotracheal tube as close to the animal as possible, ALWAYS
using a small hydrophobic in-line filter at the CAPSTAR-100
SAMPLE INLET port. Several centimeters of small-bore tubing is
acceptable between the sample port and the tracheal connection if
the sample rate is kept reasonably high. Avoid large moisture
absorbers, which typically have a substantial internal volume.
Moisture-reducing sample tubing, such as Nafion®, is ideal, and is
included in the Accessories Kit provided with the instrument. The
CO2sample cell itself is heated, and will not condense water vapor.
Be careful to keep the sample tubing free of liquid water, however.
(see Connection Diagram, p.14)
Note: Never operate the instrument without
the in-line hydrophobic disk filter!

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4.12 CONDITIONING THE SAMPLE
It is extremely important that no condensed water or other fluids
enter the sample cells. Such contamination will shift the zero, or
make zeroing the instrument impossible. A moisture blocking
hydrophobic filter should always be used between the sample line
and the SAMPLE INLET. Nafionsample lines are provided, which
reduce water vapor in the gas sample. The sample tubing should
be inspected periodically to ensure there is no trapped moisture. If
visible water has condensed in this tubing, it should be
disconnected and dried using compressed air. Water entering the
CO2sample cell will cause unstable reading and zero offsets.
4.2 LCD DISPLAY
The front-panel graphic LCD screen shows all current measurements, the
settings and state of the programmable alarms, and a graphical display of
the ETCO2concentration. During normal operation, the display will appear
as follows:
The first line of the display shows the current CO2concentration (either
FAST or ET,PERCENT ormmHg). At upper right is the current Respiratory
Rate (RR) in breaths-per-minute (bpm).
The second line shows the SAMPLE FLOW RATE in cc/min, the NUMBER OF
BREATHS TO AVERAGE in the ETCO2display, and whether the ALARM is on
or off.
The third line shows the alarm low and high settings for ETCO2 (left) and
Respiratory Rate (right).
The box at the bottom of the screen shows a bar graph of the ETCO2
reading, updated once per second. This serves as a quick visual indicator
of changing CO2 over time.

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© 2023 CWE, Inc.
4.3 CALIBRATE FUNCTIONS
Calibrating the CAPSTAR-100 is straightforward. Because of the inherent
linearity of the sensor, only a two-point calibration is required. For CO2
calibration, a 5% CO2in air calibration mixture is ideal.
Zero: With the instrument fully warmed-up, and the SAMPLE INLET port
opened to room air, press the ZERO button. The instrument will read the
zero gas for several seconds and then adjust and store a zero-offset
value.
High: Let the instrument sample a gas with known CO2concentration
(optimally between 5.0 and 10.0%) and then press the HIGH button. If
necessary, rotate the ADJUST knob until the correct CO2reading is
displayed.
NOTE: See Section 5.0 for instructions on calibration gas
connections.
CAUTION: DO NOT apply pressurized gas to the sample in
port. This will result in inaccurate calibration and can
permanently damage the instrument.
4.4 DISPLAY FUNCTIONS
Mode: This pushbutton toggles the display between FAST (continuous) and
ET (peak end-tidal). Note that the CO2OUTPUT always provides the FAST
response signal.
Units: This pushbutton toggles the display between PERCENT or mmHg
units of concentration.
4.5 ALARM FUNCTIONS
This CAPSTAR-100 provides user-selectable alarms for ETCO2and
respiratory rate (RR). Both have adjustable upper and lower alarm limits.
When an alarm is activated, the ALARM LED will light, and a periodic beep
will sound if the BEEP function is active. The alarm messages are as
follows: <CO2 OUT OF RANGE>
<RESP RATE ALARM>
RR Alarm: Press the RR pushbutton and follow the prompts. The current
setting to be adjusted will be blinking. Turn the ADJUST knob to change the
setting as desired. After the LOW limit is set, press the ADJUST knob to

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accept. Then the HIGH setting can be adjusted. When done, press the
ADJUST knob to exit. The format of the RR alarm settings is as follows:
<010:120> (low and high RR alarm settings)
Note that these functions will time-out and exit automatically after 10
seconds if no adjustments are made.
ETCO2Alarm: Press the ETCO2 pushbutton and follow the prompts. The
current setting to be adjusted will be blinking. Turn the ADJUST knob to
change the setting as desired. After the LOW limit is set, press the ADJUST
knob to accept. Then the HIGH setting can be adjusted. When done, press
the ADJUST knob to exit. The format of the ETCO2 alarm settings is as
follows:
<2.0:7.0> (low and high ETCO2 alarm settings)
4.6 MISCELLANEOUS FUNCTIONS
Beep: Pressing the BEEP pushbutton toggles the alarm beep on or off. The
alarm display functions are not affected by the BEEP setting.
AUX:Pressing the AUX pushbutton opens a menu of miscellaneous
display and operation settings. Once AUX is selected, rotate the ADJUST
knob to show the desired function, and press the ADJUST knob to allow
setting. These are described individually below:
CO2 Display: The user can select a display format as follows:
9.9% or 9.99%
Breaths to Average: The user can select the number of breaths to
use in the averaging of the ETCO2 and RR display. The possible
settings are:
2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, or 16 breaths
LCD Brightness: The user can set the brightness of the backlight
on the lCD graphic display. The range of setting is:
100 (dim) to 255 (bright)

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Serial format: The user can select from four RS232 serial output
formats. These are as follows:
0 = disabled
1 = every breath
2 = 1 set of data/second
3 = 1 set of data per 10 seconds
The format of each data set is:
"05.33,127<13>" or, ETCO2percent, RR, <Carriage Return>
Restore defaults: Selecting this function will restore the factory
defaults for all settings.
4.7 CO2 OUTPUT SIGNAL
An analog output is provided for the CO2concentration. This signal is
scaled as follows:
CO2output 0.4V / %CO2
Note that this output always provides the FAST (continuous) CO2
concentration, regardless of the display setting.
4.8 RS232 OUTPUT (Rear Panel)
A serial interface is provided for external data collection and analysis. The
data is sent according to the timing set in the Serial Format setting of the
AUX functions. The serial protocol is as follows: 9600,N,8,1
If your computer does not have a standard serial port, a USB-Serial
Adapter is available that effectively creates a virtual serial COM port (see
Ordering Information).

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5.0 CO2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
When calibrating the Capstar-100 it is important to avoid applying pressure to the
SAMPLE INLET port. The diagram below illustrates a simple means of coupling a
calibration gas source while calibrating. Note that the gas just flows around the
distal end of the sample tubing, allowing the instrument to draw in the gas at its own
flow rate.
NOTE! Never apply pressure directly to the SAMPLE INLET.
This can permanently damage the CO2 sample cell, and will
void the product warranty.
Recommended calibration setup diagram

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6.0 MAINTENANCE
The CAPSTAR-100 monitor requires no routine maintenance, other than
periodically replacing the in-line hydrophobic filter. This filter is inserted in the
sample line between the sample tubing and the SAMPLE INLET on the front panel of
the instrument. These filters are included in the Accessories Kit included with the
instrument, and are available separately from CWE, Inc.
CAUTION! NEVER OPERATE THE INSTRUMENT WITHOUT THIS IN-
LINE HYDROPHOBIC FILTER. THIS FILTER PREVENTS LIQUIDS AND
OTHER CONTAMINENTS FROM ENTERING THE SAMPLE CELLS.
7.0 ORDERING INFORMATION
Accessories and replacement parts for the CAPSTAR-100 are available from CWE,
Inc.
PART NO.
DESCRIPTION
11-10000
CAPSTAR-100 CO2Analyzer (complete unit)
11-01101
Accessory kit: sample lines, 2 Nafion®lines, disk filters & fittings
11-01102
Sample line, 4 feet, with male Luer-loc connectors
11-01103
Sample line, 2 feet Nafion (evaporates condensed moisture)
11-01111
Sample line, 6 inches, Nafion (evaporates condensed moisture)
11-01108
In-line miniature hydrophobic filter, 13mm dia, Luer fittings, pk of 5
20-01001
USB-Serial Adapter

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© 2023 CWE, Inc.
Typical Sample Connection Diagram