Vmax Encore 29 metabolic cart - Standard Operating Procedures
Applied Research Centre (ARC)
Revised January 11, 2016
Vmax overview:
The Vmax is a metabolic cart which measures the oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide
produced by the participant, along with optional measurements such as ECG. The complete
system is comprised of:
 Vmax Encore 29 metabolic cart
 Monitor, printer and PC with Vmax software
 Adjustable headpiece and flow sensor
 Calibration syringe
 Reference gas tanks (505 L 26% O2, 560 L 16% O2 / 4% CO2)
 Gas cylinder key
 Input/output interface
 4 lead ECG
Usage of research equipment in the ARC – General Guidelines
 All users must read and sign the document “ARC Standard Operating Procedures”
located at http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/hlhpri/media/ARC_SOPs.pdf . The signed
copy must be returned to the Lab Coordinator.
 Space and mobile equipment in the ARC should be booked using the QReserve system.
Booking requests will not be granted until that user has signed this SOP and completed
training on the machine. The met cart is listed as “Metabolic cart – VMax Encore”.
Instructions for using QReserve are located at
http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/hlhpri/media/QReserve.pdf .
 All doors in the ARC require card access (except for the boardroom 220 ARC from 8:304:30). If you do not have card access yet, please complete the Key Access form and
return to the Lab Coordinator:

If there is a change in equipment status (lost, damaged, broken), please complete the
Change in Equipment Status webform located at
http://www.umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/research/arcform.html
Vmax resources
Description
Vmax short instructions
Operator’s manual – Vmax series
Vmax technical reference manual
MetriCide MSDS
Location
PDF available through Applied
Research Centre website
Vmax PC
Vmax PC
Lab Coordinator
Under sink in 240 ARC
x
x
x
Usage of research equipment in the ARC – Vmax Specific Guidelines
 Users should be trained in the operation of all equipment by an experienced user and
this document must be signed by the Lab Coordinator before unsupervised use. Please
contact the Lab Coordinator if you wish to be trained in the use of the Vmax. Training
consists of a minimum of one guided session on equipment usage by the Lab
Coordinator, and one session wherein the potential user will demonstrate a basic
understanding of the system. The Lab Coordinator will sign off on this form after you
have demonstrated proficiency in this session.


The Vmax is currently located in 240 ARC. If the machine is being used in 198 Extended
Education, the Vmax must be placed in the locked closet when unattended.
To minimize risk of injury:
o You must always be present during testing or exercise sessions. Do not allow
subjects to test or exercise by themselves.
o Keep all sources of ignition away from equipment.
o Keep oil, grease, or greasy substances away from the oxygen regulators,
cylinder valves, tubing, connections, and all other oxygen equipment.
o When using calibration gases, ensure that the regulator valves are turned off
(fully counter-clockwise) before opening the cylinder valves.
o Clearly communicate test termination procedures to the participant, and closely
monitor their treadmill position and signs of fatigue.

To minimize technical difficulties:
o The Vmax PC is not connected to the network and does not automatically back
up files. Users are encouraged to back up their files using a USB drive.
o Allow the system to warm up for 30 minutes before testing.
o Turn off the Vmax unit only after the PC has been shut down.
o If possible, try to calibrate the system before the participant arrives. The
calibration process takes practice and may be time consuming.
o Remember to return the sample line to the flow sensor after using it on the
calibration syringe.
o The system should be calibrated before every participant.
o Ensure the mouthpiece’s spit trap is angled downward so that gravity can assist
in collection.
o The Vmax is best positioned adjacent to the treadmill so that both the treadmill
data screen and Vmax computer monitor can be seen at once.
o Remember that booking the Vmax in QReserve does not book the treadmills in
240 ARC – these must be booked separately as “240-1 ARC – Treadmill suite”.

Proper testing technique:
o Be consistent in warm-up procedures, commands, setups and instructions
(including means of non-verbal communication for participant).
o Verbal encouragement of participants should be consistent.

Cleaning:
o The treadmill/bike should be cleaned after use with disinfectant spray and paper
towels present in 240 ARC.
o The mouthpiece, flow sensor and nose clip should be cleaned using a MetriCide
solution. This solution is effective for up to 28 days after mixture and is kept in a
small tub with the mixing date labelled on top. If you open and mix a new
MetriCide solution, you must label the date on the tub.
o Disinfect items by immersing them for 30 seconds in Metricide, rinsing thoroughly
with sterile water (found under the sink), and leaving on drying rack in 240 ARC.
When using MetriCide, disposable gloves should be worn (found in cabinet 42XL).
o If you have mixed the last remaining bottle of Metricide, please inform the Lab
Coordinator so that additional supplies can be ordered.
Faculty of Kinesiology and
Recreation Management
VMax SOPs and training completed by:
_______________________________________________
User name
_______________________
Date
_______________________________________________
Signature
Approved by:
_______________________________________________
Lab Coordinator
_______________________
Date