DreamKeeper and SleepTracker: Better Rest Through Technology
We reviewed the original SleepTracker a while back, and now can offer a look at the new SleepTracker Pro, as well as a device that seems similar on the surface actually is quite different- the HBI DK-400.
The SleepTracker Pro is an improved version of the original, offering 12 hours of data collection instead of 8, a wider alarm window, a vibrating alarm as well as ringing, and the option to transfer information to the PC (and the software to do it). As before, it is essentially a watch that works as a sleep-monitoring device, and aims to gently wake you up within a window that you set. The idea is that instead of a hard and fast alarm time, the SleepTracker can tell when you are almost awake naturally, and nudge you the rest of the way instead of the more violent reaction accompanying normal alarms.
As with our look at the previous version, the watch is a little too large to wear all of the time, though much more sleek this time around. It’s easy to program and use, though a bit awkward if you have multiple alarms. And the sleep data, while interesting, isn’t all that useful (though I’d be curious what a doctor would say, and to compare patterns across a larger sample). You’ll need to remember to set the “To Bed” option for about a half hour before you aim to fall asleep for accurate recording, which is a bit annoying… but the price is about the only real issue we had, since the Pro model is $170. As before, we found that the device worked better than expected, waking us up a few times earlier than we would have gotten up normally, but feeling more refreshed. Available online.
If waking up isn’t your issue- but falling asleep is- then the HBI DreamKeeper might be more up your alley. This device slides onto the wrist, and is aimed as a sleep aid and stress reliever, using the P6 wrist acupressure point to hopefully lull you to a good night’s rest. Meant to be used for 30 minutes before trying to fall asleep, it also attempts to monitor breathing, and guide you to slow your breathing down. HBI offers a study on their website that offers some evidence of their claims, and for $150 it’s probably worth a try for those users with insomnia.
But we weren’t able to really achieve the desired effect, possibly because we didn’t use it for the recommended three weeks- and because we don’t have issues with sleep length/duration. It’s a bit hard to use the device for 30 minutes before resting, due to unpredictable scheduling, etc. The DK-400 is also a bit awkward, making it difficult to do some tasks while using it, forcing you to sort of “do nothing” for a while. Regardless, it is a safe, drug-free, easy option, and seems like a good idea- just make sure and keep the packaging, and purchase from a place that allows easy returns. Available on Amazon, Target, and from the manufacturer.
