Pulse oximetry is currently of great importance and some people are forced to carry an oximeter everywhere they go. Recording pulse oximeter is one of the models of oximetry devices used to measure blood oxygen saturation and heart beat. The device has the capability to store all values captured over time in a memory hence the name recording. A computer that is running the software that is sold together with the device serves as the memory.

With advancing technology sophistication of modern devices is very high making it necessary to have some knowledge about them before setting out to buy one. Novice buyers can find the information in this writing useful. Generally, battery type, size, comfort, display, wireless or Bluetooth capability, accuracy, compatibility with other gadgets, perfusion index, and warranty are some of the factors to consider when buying an oximeter.

The most common devices in currently can only use 2 battery types, the rechargeable lithium-ion and alkaline battery. Alkaline batteries are permanently fixed in the gadget preventing them to be serviced. They also cannot be recharged. They may take years before they need to be replaced. Depleted battery can affect performance and accuracy of a device. Lack of batteries to replace depleted ones also limit the life of certain models.

Rechargeable batteries on the other hand are very durable and cost effective over time. They only need to be recharged when they discharge. Charging can be done even when the instrument is in use making the batteries even more convenient. There are however some models of oximeters, which can use both alkaline and rechargeable batteries. Going for such models can offer an added advantage.

Devices with alarm systems have added advantage because they are life-saving. The life-saving capability comes in because the gadget can be set by the user to notify them upon the occurrence of certain events. For instance, the user gets notified when their blood oxygen saturation level or heart rate falls or rises beyond a given level. This feature can be very vital for people under critical medical conditions.

The display is the interface through which the user is able to understand the values measured by the instrument. The display should be readable and clear enough to be seen without much trouble. Cheap models have standard LED displays, but the expensive models have better displays. The display should also be able to show other data such as battery level, perfusion index, pulse meter and waveform, and menus among others.

Devices with Bluetooth and/or wireless capabilities are able to automatically download all recorded data on a PC. The user can set the download to happen at given intervals. This way, data is backed up for future use at all times. The health staff in a home finds such capabilities useful because they do not need to disturb the patient to take readings.

The features and quality of a product dictate its price. Quality should not be overlooked for cost when buying and oximeter. That is because poor quality can cause problems in sensitive cases. It should be known that high accuracy devices cost a lot.