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==Pure DIY==
Looking at the parts for the AltoLab, it seems possible to construct one out of PVC piping, some foam, CPAP tube, etc., but this may require some effort to find the right parts. Given that the AltoLab system is only the cost of a couple of pairs of good running shoes, it does not seem worth the effort.
==Optional Oxygen Sensor==
[[File:Altolab with OxyCheq.jpg|right|thumb|300px|My AltoLab system with the OxyCheq O<sub>2</sub> sensor attached. (Click for a larger image.)]]
I added an oxygen sensor to my AltoLab set up to make it easier to control my [[SpO2|SpO<sub>2</sub>]] levels. I chose the OxyCheq oxygen sensor because it has a separate replaceable sensor and a remote display, and the price was reasonable ($250). I've found that knowing the oxygen level I'm breathing gives me the finer control of how hypoxic I am as the [[Pulse Oximeter]] alone has a significant delay. If you start breathing air with more or less oxygen it will sometimes take over a minute for this to affect the circulating blood in your fingertip that the [[Pulse Oximeter]] is monitoring. This delay makes it tricky to stay in the right [[SpO2|SpO<sub>2</sub>]] range. With the O<sub>2</sub> sensor I can see how the depth of my breathing is affecting the oxygen level, and combined with the [[Pulse Oximeter]] I'm able to get a much more effective hypoxic exposure. The diagram to the right shows my current configuration:
* I generally use six of the black foam filled mixers.
* Attached to the black mixer is the green CO<sub>2</sub> scrubber, the end cap and the original hose.
* Next the O2 sensor is attached to a blue "T" adapter. This is connected by a wire to the display unit. These sensors have an expected life of about two years, so it's handy for them to be easily replaceable.
* Finally there is the viral filter, the optional expandable swivel tube and the mouthpiece.
The cost of the Oxygen Sensor more than doubles the cost of the overall system, but this was worthwhile to me as I use the system on a regular basis. I would not recommend getting an Oxygen Sensor until you know how you get on with basic setup.
==See Also==
* [[Altitude Training 101]]
