Technological advances have enabled portable ventilators to replicate most modes of respiratory support. Ventilator software responds to feedback from sensors in the breathing circuit by actuating solenoid valves that regulate gas flow during the respiratory cycle. These valves control flow driven by a high-pressure gas supply in the Oxylog 3000. In contrast, the LTV-1000 uses an internal battery-powered turbine to pressurize gas for the flow control valves. Eliminating the necessity for gas cylinders is particularly liberating for patients ventilated at home who can then travel more easily. However, when used in critical care, battery life can be almost halved when the turbine is required to generate pressure-controlled ventilation with high levels of PEEP.

The LTV-1000 and Oxylog 3000 provide a range of pressure- or volume-controlled modes, allowing them to adapt to changes in lung mechanics or circuit leaks. They also incorporate patient-triggered modes, which are effective at reducing the work of breathing during spontaneous ventilation. This type of ventilation is well tolerated, in general, and increased sedation should not be required for ventilator tolerance alone.

Reductions in the work of breathing are achieved using sensitive triggering and rapid delivery of adequate flow rates of gas during assisted breaths. To achieve this, the LTV-1000 and Oxylog 3000 generate a bias flow through the circuit during expiration. Although this increases gas consumption, it facilitates the use of rapidly responding flow-sensors located close to the patient, and fulfils the patient's immediate inspiratory requirements. In combination with pressure support modes capable of providing high flow rates, the work of breathing can thus be minimized.

Ventilator performance is affected by design compromises required for portability, such as miniaturized flow-control valves and robust sensors. Data comparing implementation of similar modes of ventilation on different ventilators are limited but duplicating settings from one device to another may not result in equivalent ventilation. Therefore, a trial period on the portable ventilator is advisable before transfer.