The effects of ventilatory apparatus on breathing pattern and gas exchange were studied in normal supine subjects. Using a canopy system, measurements of O2 consumption, CO2 production, tidal volume (VT), frequency (f), minute ventilation, mean inspiratory flow, and inspiratory, and expiratory time (TI and TE) were made and compared to data obtained with the use of a mask (m) and mouthpiece plus noseclip (mp + nc). Use of the m or mp + nc caused a 32.5 and 15.5% increase in VT, respectively, whereas f, TI, and TE remained unchanged. As TI did not change the increase in VT was caused entirely by increased inspiratory flow.