Bromide "bank" to start up w/Bromine

[JLB]

I'm going to switch to a bromine tablets, every thing I read tells me I must use bromide with bromine tabs for initial start up and weekly. I work with a guy who said he just puts bromine tabs in a tube that fits into his filter and thats it, no initial bromide "bank"  doesn't use it at all, just the bromine tabs. Is this also correct?  

[Brewman]

You're supposed to use the soduim bromide to start out, else your water will sit for a long time before the bromine tablets start to register.  
Not sure why this is resisted- it's not like that little packet of powder is all that much trouble, just toss it in.
And it's not expensive.
If you intend to use your spa right away, I'd for sure go with the sodium bromide.

[NE-Phil]

I use it at every refill.
And if the packets are too expensive, buy the 2# container. It'll last forever.

Phil