FAQ – InBody Ireland

Frequently Asked
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
about InBody

When using InBody, questions may arise from time to time. To support you, we have compiled a selection of frequently asked questions covering the most common topics. The questions are organised into clear categories, allowing you to quickly find the information you need.

If your question is not listed, please feel free to contact us. An InBody specialist will be happy to assist you and provide further guidance.

Questions about the
database

The device keeps freezing

If the device freezes during start-up, please contact our service department.

If the device freezes on the home screen, try disconnecting the USB cable that connects the InBody device to the printer.

Sometimes, unused memory may be stored, causing the programme to freeze. You will then need to purchase a separate filter for the InBody and the printer.

The weight on my scales is incorrect

Try turning the device off and on again. During the charging process, do not place anything on the scales, do not press on them or leave anything on them.

Go to SETUP and ensure that no changes have been made to the weight.

If none of the above has solved the problem, please contact our service department.

I have forgotten my password

Forgotten administrator password

Use the master password to reset the administrator password.

If you have trouble with figuring out the reset, please contact our service department for a new password.

*note that the InBody 380 and 580 may differ from the above explanation, please contact our Technical Support team

How do I set/change my access code/password?

Press the Administrator Menu at the bottom left.

Enter the administrator password. The default password is 0000.

Select option 1: Date/Time/Device/Password/Volume

Press right to go to page 2

Select ‘Set Password’

How long does the test take?

The InBody test takes 15 to 90 seconds depending on the model.

How often does the InBody need to be serviced?

The InBody requires little to no maintenance. However, we recommend having your InBody serviced at least once a year to keep it as healthy as you are.

Please note: If the device is always switched on, it is a good idea to switch it off and on again every two weeks so that the InBody can restart.

What is the lifespan of an InBody device?

InBody devices do not have a specific lifespan. If you handle the device with care, you can use it for many years.

What can I use to clean the InBody?

Do not use materials that contain acids, as these can damage the conductive surface of the electrodes. You can use isopropyl alcohol (70%) to clean the device. However, it is advisable not to leave any liquid on or around the electrodes, as this can cause damage.

What is the warranty policy?

The standard warranty is 2 years from the date of purchase for all InBody products. Warranty extension is available at the time of purchase. You may be eligible for an extended warranty if the product was purchased within one year. The warranty does not cover material and/or cosmetic damage such as water damage. Additional services such as loaner devices and expedited shipping are subject to additional charges.

What kind of warranty is included with the InBody device?

Every InBody device comes with a standard 2-year warranty that covers parts, device operation and one-time shipping.

How can I calibrate the InBody?

The InBody does not require calibration unless it has undergone maintenance. The InBody automatically calibrates for weight during the warm-up phase.

However, we recommend that you have the InBody calibrated by an InBody expert at least once a year. This is to ensure that your InBody remains as healthy as you are.

How does InBody compare to other BIA devices? What are the main technical differences between InBody and other BIA devices?

-The use of multiple frequencies to measure intracellular water and extracellular water

-An electrode system with eight tactile contact points with patented thumb electrodes that provide a direct and reproducible measurement.

-Segmental impedance measurements to accurately measure the muscle mass of the torso.

-No empirical estimates required. No use of statistical data.

What are the advantages of using multiple frequencies instead of a single frequency?

Using multiple frequencies improves accuracy and precision. At a single low frequency, the electrical currents penetrate the cell membrane with greater difficulty, and it is also more difficult toassess how much intracellular water the cell membrane contains. When the frequencies are higher, the electrical currents can penetrate the cell membrane more easily and measure theintracellular water more accurately.

How do InBody's 8 tactile electrodes differ from adhesive ECG electrodes?

Self-adhesive electrodes are usually placed on the wrist and fingertip. The high-voltage line and the current output always overlap at a certain point. It is precisely at this point that the measurementbegins. However, it is impossible to attach the self-adhesive electrodes to the same places every time, which means that the measurement points may differ. That is why InBody prefers tactileelectrodes. With tactile electrodes, the high-voltage line and current output always overlap at the same point, ensuring a reliable and reproducible measurement.

How can InBody calculate fat mass by only looking at body water?

Body water is closely related to fat-free mass. When fat-free mass is subtracted from the total weight, only fat mass remains.

Which printers are compatible with InBody devices?

Almost all printers with PCL3 or higher are compatible with InBody devices. However, InBody devices are sold with a standard configuration that includes a compatible printer. Download the list ofcompatible printers from our user manual page here.

How do InBody devices work?

InBody devices use direct segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (DSM-BIA): a patented technology to measure body composition by sending multiple electrical currents through the body. Thisresults in six different impedance measurements of the torso and limbs.

The innovative in-depth analysis of the InBody test provides accurate results of body composition such as fat mass, skeletal muscle mass, (segmental) muscle mass and fat percentage.

What is impedance?

Impedance is the resistance value of an electronic component at a certain frequency. Impedance consists of two parts: resistance and reactance.

InBody uses segmental impedance values at different frequencies to provide an accurate analysis of the human body. Reactance is the resistance caused by cell membranes that can store charge.Reactance increases depending on the integrity of the cell membrane. Reactance and phase angle decrease when the number of cells is low or when cell membranes are permeable or unhealthy.

The more body water present, the lower the impedance.

Is BIA technology accurate?

In the past, BIA was viewed with scepticism. InBody technology dispels this scepticism thanks to its technological features that provide accurate and precise measurements of the body (or body part).

What other commonly used methods are there for analysing body composition?

Other measurement methods include DEXA, hydrostatic weighing, plethysmography and skinfold measurement.

How often can I measure my body composition?

The frequency of measurements depends on the setting and the programme you are following. InBody recommends measuring body composition every 2-4 weeks.

Why do body composition results change when height changes?

The volume of a cylinder, in this case the body, changes when the height of the cylinder changes. BIA devices consider the body to be a cylinder. The amount of body water is calculated using the height and impedance of the body.

How can the fat percentage change within a single day?

Weight and body water change when you have eaten or drank something or when you are in a different environment. It is therefore recommended that you always perform the test under the same conditions, in the same environment and at the same time of day.

What are the differences between the InBody models?

All InBody models accurately measure weight and body composition. Other features and technical specifications vary by model. These differences are highlighted on the product page.

Can anyone purchase an InBody device?

Yes. The InBody 270S, 380, 580, 770S and 970S are non-prescription, over-the-counter devices that meet medical requirements. They can be purchased by any individual or organisation.

Which sectors use body composition analysis?

Body composition measurements on InBody products are used in various organisations, institutions and programmes:

Colleges and universities
Hospitals, research institutions
Professional and amateur sports organisations
Care homes and independent living facilities
Wellness programmes within companies and suppliers
General practitioners
Weight loss programmes and facilities
Bariatrics
Public and private schools
Government institutions
Public and private recreational facilities
Anti-ageing facilities
Fitness centres
Gyms

What can I use the InBody for?

The InBody is versatile and can be used for:

Treating and preventing obesity
Weight loss and weight management
Rehabilitation
Monitoring muscle development in older people
Health fairs and medical prevention events
Top performance

Why do I need to remove my shoes and socks for the test?

Clothing items such as shoes, socks, stockings or leggings must be removed in order to obtain accurate results. This is because the soles of your feet must be in direct contact with the electrodes.

Can I use an InBody device without any special training?

Yes. InBody devices are quick, easy and convenient to use. Each InBody model has an LCD screen for entering data and each model automatically prints out the results after each test. The InBody comes standard with a quick installation procedure, an installation manual, a user manual and a poster and leaflet explaining the results. If you have any questions about the InBody, please contact an InBody specialist or one of our customer service representatives here.

Why do I have to stand upright during the test?

The InBody requires you to stand upright because an upright position is the natural posture of the human body.

What are the important guidelines before I start the test?

Before the test, you must:

have been to the toilet

be in the same condition as during your first test

use an InBody tissue to clean the electrode pads

not eat or take the test two hours after eating a meal

We do not recommend testing if you:

have exercised intensively

have been to the sauna or steam room or have taken a bath

have consumed diuretics such as caffeine, alcohol or medication

have a cold, flu or fever

Are there any height, weight or age restrictions?

All InBody models have the same range for weight, height and age.

Weight range: 10-250 kg

Height range: 95-220 cm

Age range: 3-99 years

Will I feel the electrical currents during the test?

The electrical currents that pass through the body during the InBody test are so low that the average person will not feel them. However, sensitive individuals may feel the currents slightly.

What factors influence the test results?

Changes in body composition reflect the status of the body. The body can be influenced by illness, nutrition, hydration and medication. Accessories such as jewellery can interfere with electrical conductivity. Poor posture can also influence the results.

Can people with prostheses also take the InBody test?

Unfortunately, the electrical currents cannot flow through prostheses. The electrodes must be in contact with the body at all eight touch points: thumbs, palms, soles and heels.

Can the InBody print wirelessly?

Currently, the InBody cannot print wirelessly.

For whom is the InBody test not recommended?

People with artificial electrical implants such as a defibrillator or pacemaker, because the electrical currents can interfere with the functionality of the implants.

Women who are menstruating, as the results may be inaccurate due to subtle changes in hydration or body water.

Pregnant women, as their body composition fluctuates continuously during pregnancy.

Why do I need to use an InBody tissue before starting the test?

The InBody tissue increases electrical conductivity where the hand and foot electrodes make contact with the skin. Without the tissues, the electrical currents have more difficulty passing through the calluses on the hands and feet. The InBody tissue also serves as an antibacterial cleaning wipe to keep the device clean.

Questions about the database