Spirometry is the principal way of assessing lung functions as well as diagnosing and managing asthma, COPD, and occupational health risks, but choosing a diagnostic spirometer may be challenging. We have been fielding questions about the differences between ndd Medical Technologies’ EasyOne Air and Easy on-PC spirometers. Today, we’ll take the mystery out of choosing between the two.

Ultrasound Technology

But first, it’s important to point out that EasyOne Air and Easy on-PC spirometers rely on ultrasound technology, which ndd calls TrueFlow™, to measure volume and airflow. TrueFlow sends two ultrasonic signals diagonally across the flow path–one accelerates with the airflow while the other decelerates against it. By comparing the transit time difference between the signals, TrueFlow calculates airflow speed. This technology combines optimized transceiver cells generating the ultrasound signals with a high-speed digital time processor to measure transit times within nanoseconds.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Spirometer

When evaluating spirometers, first determine your needs regarding portability, connectivity, and data management. Handheld devices offer mobility for screening, while PC-based systems allow real-time data transfers to EMR platforms. If integrating with your records system, ensure the spirometer can connect directly or export compatible file types. Standalone spirometers require manual data offloading compared to network-enabled models.

Also consider the device’s language capabilities based on your patient population. Many spirometers offer multilingual platforms to ensure clear guidance and results interpretation. Review available languages and accessibility options to accommodate diverse user groups.

Mouthpieces, Flow Sensors and Filters

Long-term costs also depend on disposable components. Some spirometers use permanent ultrasonic sensors with disposable mouthpieces, while others require disposable or reusable turbine flow sensors. Disposable PFT filters also factor into recurring costs. Compare total cost of ownership when purchasing equipment.

Ease of use and training resources impact staff productivity. Devices with simple navigation, animations, and onboard help content minimize learning curves. Many manufacturers provide video tutorials and virtual training sessions when introducing new equipment.

Finally, assess after-sales support and maintenance options. Can in-house staff service devices or are external technicians required? Response time for repairs should align with clinical workflows. Extended warranties may suit busier practices.

By balancing clinical requirements, connectivity, usability, and budget, you can select the optimal spirometry solution for accurate, convenient lung function testing in your practice. Reputable manufacturers will support deployment every step of the way.

ndd EasyOne Air & Easy on-PC Spirometers

The EasyOne Air is the ultimate portable spirometer. Weighing just 12.6 oz, its compact size and long-lasting rechargeable battery were designed for mobility. The vibrant color screen provides real-time incentives to coach patients through testing. Bluetooth connectivity allows wireless printing and seamless data transfer to EasyOne Connect software. The automated ultrasonic TrueFlow sensor ensures precision and consistency. For flexibility across clinical settings, the EasyOne Air can’t be beat.

For advanced connectivity, the Easy on-PC system leverages the power of a desktop or a laptop computer. While remaining portable, the unit connects to a PC’s USB port to view results in real-time, network printouts, and integrate smoothly with EMR platforms. EasyOne Connect software can store all data centrally and enables remote quality control. For clinics needing a professional lab-grade system, the EasyOn-PC delivers.

While both provide the proven accuracy of ultrasonic TrueFlow, the EasyOne Air excels at fast field screening while the EasyOn-PC suits advanced lab integration.

EasyOne Filters FT and SP

The Covid-19 pandemic forced many countries to heighten infection control measures and require the use of an inline filter during spirometry maneuvers and advanced lung function tests. ndd Medical Technologies developed two filters: Filter SP to fit the Spirette mouthpiece for the Easy on-PC spirometer and Filter FT to fit the FlowTube mouthpiece for EasyOne Air.

In addition to their innovative design to reduce resistance to flow, ndd’s PFT filters are placed distally, at the end of mouthpiece, away from the patient. It is critical to update the firmware of the spirometer before using the filters, as ndd explains below.

Use Filter SP with Easy on-PC Spirometer

Use Filter FT with EasyOne Air Spirometer

ndd regularly publishes instructional guides as well as respiratory care updates on its multilingual YouTube channel.

Comparison Chart

The exhaustive comparison chart for the EasyOne Air and Easy on-PC spirometers should get you well on your way to choosing between two excellent choices. Please, note that both spirometers come with the EasyOne Connect software. 

More questions?

We’ve answered the most common questions we get about the two ndd spirometers. If you have more questions, please, use the LiveChat box in the lower-right to send us a message, or fill out our contact form at any time. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer.