Troubleshooting guide

Monark 831 E
20
Subject supervision
The ergometer performs automated tests virtually by
itself, requiring minimal intervention by the operator.
This allows the operator to pay careful attention to
the test subject without distraction. The response
to the exercise protocol can be accurately estimated
and appropriate action to assist the test subject,
if necessary, may be given. The user is subjected to
considerable exercise in certain advanced protocol
stages. The effect on the test subject should not be
underestimated.
During the testing, the general appearance and heart
rate may be the most crucial factors to monitor. The
testing should be stopped immediately if the test
subject reports chest pain, difficulty breathing, etc. A
system of prompt medical attention should be set up
prior to testing, in case of emergency.
The test subject may also show difficulty in regulating
the speed of the ergometer. The power will be properly
regulated regardless of the speed, assuming that the
protocol work type is not force and that the speed is
maintained above the rpm low setting (default is 30
rpm).
In addition, some test subjects may become sensitive
to the display on the handheld remote controller.
If this is suspected, the controller may be removed
from its cradle and located out of view. Similarly, the
pulse LED may disturb the test subject and may be
disabled.
Heart rate (Telemetry system)
The test subject’s heart rate can be monitored by
chestbelt telemetry system. The system with chestbelt
electrodes is standard equipment.
The chestbelt should be secured at a comfortable
tension around the mid section, just below the breast
muscle. Moisten the electrodes before use. Heart rate
monitoring, free from artifact, requires good electrode
contacts and adequate skin preparation. Prior to
placing the electrodes, the test subject’s skin at the
electrodes sites, should be cleaned with a commercial
skin prep solution. To make sure that you have found
the correct position the logo should have been placed
in the center of chest and also be readable by another
person. To enable a reliable contact with pulse
receiver on the ergometer the distance should be kept
below 100 cm. It is important to identify the chestbelt
with the pulse receiver by standing close to it before
beginning (max 60 cm, concerns Polar belts). After
the chestbelt is placed the heart rate will be displayed
and the heart symbol will verify each beat. If the rpm
bar is set to show optical heart beat in the middle
section this will also verify each heart beat.
NOTE! Electromagnetic waves can interfere with the
telemetry system. Cellular phones are not allowed to
be used near the ergometer during test.
If the ergometer is to be used without a chestbelt
note that maximum heart rate alarm should be set
in “off” position so that external noise cannot cause
a random maximum pulse or higher. This switch is
in “on” position by default. If the heart rate exceeds
the maximum level set, the alarm will sound and the
ergometer braking force will decrease until the heart
rate drops below the alarm level.