Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Operators’ Manual
Revision 5
TOSOH CORPORATION
BIOSCIENCE DIVISION
AIA-1800
Version Overview Operator’s Manual
AIA-1800
08/2008
Chapter Paragraphs
2 2.3
3 3.4
6.2
6.2.1
6
6.5.7
6.10.2
8 8.3.1
9.4.1.1
9
9.4.1.2
12.5.1
12
12.7.3
13 3003
1
About This Manual
This Operators’ Manual is designed to ensure that users can operate the AUTOMATED ENZYME
IMMUNOASSAY SYSTEM AIA-1800 safely and correctly.
This manual is geared to you who have acquired all the technical qualifications required for working with the
AIA-1800 system
It is recommended for you to carefully read and familiarize yourselves with the information in this manual
and operate the AIA-1800 system in strict accordance with the instructions provided.
Keep this manual in a safe, easily accessible location for reference purposes.
All safety precautions outlined in this manual must be strictly adhered to.
This material presented is subject to change without prior notification due to ongoing enhancements to
system performance and functionality.
Should you notice any discrepancies, errors or omissions in the information provided, you are requested to
immediately notify the nearest Tosoh service center or local representative.
Transfer or copy, in whole or in part, of the information contained in this manual is strictly forbidden.
TRADEMARKS
Microsoft, Windows and Windows XP are globally registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. (USA). Other
product and company names mentioned in this document are the registered trademarks of the respective
companies.
Safety Precautions
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Preface
It is recommended that you read carefully and familiarise yourselves with the following safety
precautions to ensure safe and correct operation of the AIA-1800 analyzer.
The information displayed using “Warning” and “Caution” signs in this manual is provided for
the purposes defined below.
Caution Indicates a hazard with a low level of risk which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
Installation Precautions
Warning
● Connect System to Suitable Power Source
● Be sure to connect the AIA-1800 to a power source with a sufficiently high power rating
that is free of voltage fluctuations.
● Power sources that have an insufficient power rating or significant fluctuations in voltage
pose a potential fire hazard.
I
Safety Precautions
Caution
● Select Installation Site with Care
● Refer to Chapter 3: System Installation in this manual to select a suitable site for
installation of the AIA-1800 system. Always notify a Tosoh service center or local
representative when installing or moving the AIA-1800 system.
● Confirm Plug Is Free of Dust or Dirt and Insert Firmly Into Socket
● Be sure to remove and inspect the power plug several times a year.
● Contamination by dust and/or foreign matter, failure to fully insert the plug into the socket
or a loose connection may result in electrical shock or fire.
Warning
● Handling Biohazards With Care
● Only personnel with sufficient knowledge of immunological assay techniques and the
procedures for handling infectious waste materials should be allowed to operate the AIA-
1800 system.
● There is always the possibility that blood and body fluid may have been contaminated by
infectious agents. Mistakes in system operation and handling of such materials can result
in the transmission of infectious agents to the system operator and/or to nearby
personnel. It is recommended that all specimens be handled with the utmost of care and
that the proper protective clothing (goggles, gloves, masks etc.) be used at all times
during maintenance procedures.
● All specimen containers, including used reagent cups, sample tips, reagent bottles,
sample cups and waste fluids may have been contaminated by blood and body fluid. It is
recommended that proper protective clothing (goggles, gloves, masks etc.) be worn at all
times and that waste materials be disposed of in accordance with the following directives
and all other relevant laws and regulations to protect all personnel in the general operating
vicinity and the surrounding environment.
II
Safety Precautions
Caution
● Operate Only in Accordance with the Procedures Described in this Manual
● Attempts to operate the AIA-1800 using procedures not prescribed in this manual may
adversely affect the integrity of assay results and cause system malfunctions.
● Avoid Opening Covers or Panels and Inserting Fingers or Any Foreign Material into
Operating Mechanisms.
● The interior of the system is comprised of motor driven components that operate at high
speeds. Foreign objects or fingers and hands can easily get caught in the mechanisms,
resulting in personal injury.
Caution
● Keep Covers and Doors Closed During Operation
● Keep all covers and doors firmly closed during operation. The interior of the AIA-1800
contains various moving parts, high-temperature components and high-voltage circuitry.
Fingers and hands can easily get snared or tangled in the mechanisms, resulting in
lacerations, burns and electrical shock.
● Special precautions must be taken when opening doors to replenish reagent and sample
tip supplies during system operation.
III
Safety Precautions
● Avoid Stopping and Starting System by Simply Inserting and Removing the Power
Plug
● Operating the AIA-1800 system in this way may damage and corrupt data on the hard disk
in the controller PC and is a potential source of electrical shock and fire.
● Whenever closing down the system, be sure to exit the system program using the
Shutdown button, then exit Windows and turn off using the power supply switch located
on the left front of the system.
IV
Safety Precautions
Caution
● Always Wear Protective Clothing
● Always wear suitable protective clothing (goggles, gloves, masks etc.) to prevent infection
when working with specimens, waste fluids and system calibration accessories.
● - Avoid Opening the STAT Specimen Door During STAT (Priority) Sampling
● The red STAT door lamp lights up to indicate that a sampling operation is in progress.
Forcing the door open will damage the sampling nozzle and affect the integrity of assay
results.
Warning
● Contact the authorised representative
● Blood to be tested might have been infected by pathogen. Misconduct on repair or
disposal may bring infection to the operator or others working together. In the case of
repairing and disposing, please contact the authorised representative.
V
Safety Precautions
Additional Precautions
<7>
<2> <3> <1> <6>
<4>
<5>
<8>
<9>
<10>
VI
Safety Precautions
Make sure that system operation has stopped and the power is off before
performing wash probe maintenance. Failure to do so may result in
personal injuries caused by contact with moving parts.
Maintenance procedures should always be performed by trained
maintenance personnel.
Never touch the wash probe while the system is in operation, as this may
affect the integrity of assay results. Doing so may also result in personal
injury caused by contact with moving parts.
The wash probe tip is contaminated by the specimen, so must be handled
with the utmost of care.
Always use the handle when opening and closing the sorter drawer.
Attempting to grasp other parts may result in injuries from your hand getting
caught during opening or closing.
VII
Safety Precautions
Note that the diluent and wash solution tanks are of the same shape and
size.
Be sure to select the one of the correct colour.
Selecting the wrong tank will directly affect assay results.
● Always store this manual in a safe, readily accessible place. Ensure that all new
operators and administrators have access to this manual.
TOSOH CORPORATION
BIOSCIENCE DIVISION
VIII
Introduction
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the AUTOMATED ENZYME IMMUNOASSAY SYSTEM AIA-1800.
This Operator’s Manual is designed to ensure that you can operate the AIA-1800 system safely and
correctly. It is recommended that you read carefully and familiarise yourselves with the information provided
in this manual before operating the AIA-1800 system.
Chapter 9: Maintenance
Chapter 9 describes the inspection and maintenance procedures required to keep the AIA-1800
operating at peak performance.
Symbol Representation
A peculiarity of the AIA-1800 controller is that it both displays and prints the µ (micro) symbol as well as a
small “u”.
VIII
Introduction
The AIA-1800 manual is organised according to the layout shown below. Use this as reference when
reading this manual.
Section Headings
Sections are divided into Chapter
up to three subsections Number
and Title
Point
Key Points provide helpful hints for mastering system operation.
Point
IX
Contents
X
6.3. Inventory Check ....................................................................................................... 6-7
6.4. Entering Parameter Settings .................................................................................. 6-10
6.4.1. Test File Parameters ................................................................................. 6-10
6.5. Generating Calibration Curves .............................................................................. 6-11
6.5.1. Loading Immunoassay Reagents ............................................................. 6-11
6.5.2. Checking Reagent Lot No. ........................................................................ 6-11
6.5.3. Calibration Request .................................................................................. 6-12
6.5.4. Worklists.................................................................................................... 6-13
6.5.5. Loading Calibrator Solution ...................................................................... 6-13
6.5.6. Scheduling Calibration .............................................................................. 6-14
6.5.7. Reviewing Calibration Results .................................................................. 6-15
6.6. Specimen and Control Assay ................................................................................ 6-18
6.6.1. Loading Immunoassay Reagents ............................................................. 6-18
6.6.2. Checking Reagent Lot No. ........................................................................ 6-18
6.6.3. Entering Assay Request ........................................................................... 6-19
6.6.4. Specimen Sets .......................................................................................... 6-25
6.6.5. Assay Start ................................................................................................ 6-26
6.6.6. Additional Assay Operations ..................................................................... 6-27
6.7. STAT Assay Requests ........................................................................................... 6-28
6.7.1. Entering STAT Specimen Assay Request ................................................. 6-28
6.7.2. Loading STAT Specimens ......................................................................... 6-29
6.7.3. Starting STAT Assay Operation................................................................. 6-30
6.8. Assay Pause/Continue........................................................................................... 6-31
6.9. Assay Monitoring ................................................................................................... 6-32
6.9.1. Assay Monitor ........................................................................................... 6-32
6.9.2. Rack Monitor ............................................................................................. 6-34
6.9.3. Error Messages......................................................................................... 6-35
6.10. Result Review ........................................................................................................ 6-36
6.10.1. STAT Specimens ..................................................................................... 6-36
6.10.2. Specimens .............................................................................................. 6-37
6.10.3. Controls................................................................................................... 6-42
6.11. Retest ..................................................................................................................... 6-43
6.12. Emergency Stop .................................................................................................... 6-44
6.13. Shut Down ............................................................................................................. 6-45
7: MAINTAINING SYSTEM PRECISION ......................................................................................... 7-1
7.1. Levey Jennings Chart .............................................................................................. 7-1
7.2. Registering QC Materials ......................................................................................... 7-3
7.3. Selectable Rules ...................................................................................................... 7-4
8: OTHER ASPECTS OF OPERATION .......................................................................................... 8-1
8.1. Utilities - Test File .................................................................................................... 8-1
8.1.1. Test File ....................................................................................................... 8-1
8.1.2. Changing Reference Range ....................................................................... 8-2
8.1.3. Panel ........................................................................................................... 8-3
8.2. Utilities – Flags and Rules ....................................................................................... 8-4
8.2.1. Flags ........................................................................................................... 8-4
8.2.2. Rules ........................................................................................................... 8-6
8.2.3. Reschedule Panel ..................................................................................... 8-10
8.3. Utilities - Host ......................................................................................................... 8-11
8.3.1. ASTM standard ......................................................................................... 8-11
8.3.2. OpenLA21 Standard (HL7 Ver2.4) ............................................................ 8-13
8.4. Utilities - Specifications .......................................................................................... 8-14
8.4.1. Assay Result Report Settings ................................................................... 8-14
8.4.2. RS-232C Port Setting Parameter ............................................................. 8-15
8.4.3. Calibration Auto Acceptance ..................................................................... 8-16
8.4.4. Priority for 10 Minute Assay ...................................................................... 8-17
8.4.5. Barcode Settings....................................................................................... 8-18
8.5. Other Settings ........................................................................................................ 8-19
8.6. Utilities - Statistics .................................................................................................. 8-20
XI
8.7. Utilities – Change Logon ........................................................................................ 8-21
8.7.1. Administrator/Operator Registration ......................................................... 8-21
8.8. Beltline Menu Screens ........................................................................................... 8-22
9: MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................................... 9-1
9.1. Daily Maintenance ................................................................................................... 9-1
9.1.1. Cleaning the Substrate Lines...................................................................... 9-1
9.2. Weekly Maintenance................................................................................................ 9-2
9.2.1. Cleaning Wash Probes ............................................................................... 9-2
9.3. Monthly Maintenance ............................................................................................... 9-5
9.3.1. Replacing Filters for Wash Solution and Diluent ........................................ 9-5
9.3.2. Replacing Probe Tips of Wash Probes ....................................................... 9-6
9.4. Three-month Maintenance ....................................................................................... 9-8
9.4.1. Cleaning Wash Solution and Diluent Tanks ................................................ 9-8
9.5. Six - to- 12 Month Maintenance Tasks .................................................................... 9-8
9.6. When Idle for Long Periods ..................................................................................... 9-8
9.7. Startup after Extended Idle Period........................................................................... 9-9
9.8. Controller PC ........................................................................................................... 9-9
9.8.1. Maintaining Optimum Performance ............................................................ 9-9
9.8.2. System Backup ........................................................................................... 9-9
9.9. Consumables (Supplies) ........................................................................................ 9-10
9.10. Maintenance Parts ................................................................................................. 9-10
10: APPENDIX 1 TEST FILES ..................................................................................................... 10-1
11: APPENDIX 2: BARCODE SETTINGS ...................................................................................... 11-1
11.1. CODE 39 ................................................................................................................ 11-1
11.2. CODABAR (NW-7)................................................................................................. 11-1
11.3. ITF .......................................................................................................................... 11-2
11.4. CODE 128 .............................................................................................................. 11-2
12: APPENDIX 3: FLAGS ........................................................................................................... 12-1
12.1. Flags with Concentrations ..................................................................................... 12-1
12.1.1. Blank ....................................................................................................... 12-1
12.1.2. L .............................................................................................................. 12-1
12.1.3. H.............................................................................................................. 12-1
12.1.4. RL ........................................................................................................... 12-1
12.1.5. RH ........................................................................................................... 12-1
12.2. Calculation Failures for High Concentration Specimens ....................................... 12-2
12.2.1. DO ........................................................................................................... 12-2
12.2.2. >H ........................................................................................................... 12-2
12.3. Calculation Failures for Low Concentration Specimens ........................................ 12-2
12.3.1. <L ............................................................................................................ 12-2
12.4. Sampling Failures .................................................................................................. 12-2
12.4.1. SS ........................................................................................................... 12-2
12.4.2. NS ........................................................................................................... 12-2
12.4.3. SC ........................................................................................................... 12-3
12.4.4. UC ........................................................................................................... 12-3
12.5. Calibration Failures ................................................................................................ 12-3
12.5.1. NC ........................................................................................................... 12-3
12.5.2. CL ........................................................................................................... 12-3
12.5.3. CV ........................................................................................................... 12-3
12.5.4. CE ........................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6. Reagent Errors....................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6.1. BH ........................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6.2. PS ........................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6.3. RS ........................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6.4. ES ........................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6.5. TS ........................................................................................................... 12-4
12.6.6. LS ............................................................................................................ 12-5
XII
12.6.7. WS .......................................................................................................... 12-5
12.6.8. BS ........................................................................................................... 12-5
12.6.9. DS ........................................................................................................... 12-5
12.7. Analyzer Errors ...................................................................................................... 12-6
12.7.1. IO ............................................................................................................ 12-6
12.7.2. WU .......................................................................................................... 12-6
12.7.3. DL ........................................................................................................... 12-6
12.7.4. SE ........................................................................................................... 12-6
12.7.5. MF ........................................................................................................... 12-7
12.7.6. NB ........................................................................................................... 12-7
12.7.7. RF ........................................................................................................... 12-7
12.7.8. SP ........................................................................................................... 12-7
13: APPENDIX 4: ERROR MESSAGE ........................................................................................... 13-1
14: APPENDIX 5:PRINTING FORMAT .......................................................................................... 14-1
14.1. Daily Maintenance ................................................................................................. 14-1
14.2. Worklist .................................................................................................................. 14-1
14.3. Assay Results ........................................................................................................ 14-2
14.4. Specimen Information and Assay Results ............................................................. 14-2
14.5. Calibration Reports ................................................................................................ 14-3
14.6. Levey Jennings Charts .......................................................................................... 14-4
14.7. QC Materials Lists.................................................................................................. 14-5
14.8. Test Files ............................................................................................................... 14-5
14.9. Checklists ............................................................................................................... 14-6
XIII
1: General Precautions for Use
1.1. General precautions for use of the AIA-1800 are provided in the following sections.
While the actual assay tasks are performed automatically by the AIA-1800 system, the user is required
to manage reagents, enter specimen request information, assess results and perform daily maintenance
tasks. Mistakes made at any stage can compromise the integrity of assay results.
Users of the AIA-1800 system are required to log on as either ordinary operators or administrators. Both
the operator and administrator level users are able to perform routine assay operations, however, only
administrator-level users are authorized to change critical system parameters and assay settings of
individual system components.
System parameters that are not accessible to ordinary operators can only be modified by logging on as
an administrator.
Operational Training
Trained service personnel always oversee and provide detailed orientation during the installation of the
AIA-1800 system. A Tosoh or local representative in each country also operates a training class for
system operators. Feel free to contact a Tosoh Service Center or local representative for detailed
information on training programs.
Producing consistently accurate assay results requires managing both the AIA-1800 system and the
various reagent supplies according to a set of designated management standards. The performance of
the system and reagents can be verified to meet these performance standards by conducting control
measurement operations at regular intervals.
The AIA-1800 system is equipped with self-diagnosis routines that display error messages whenever
faults are detected. Corrective steps can be taken in the event of errors by referring to the appropriate
section in this manual.
Managing Reagents
The AIA-1800 is designed to manage reagents by lot number. Mixing reagents with different lot numbers
will create confusion in assay results due to the inability to distinguish between lots. Carefully read the
insert sheets provided with the reagents for information on how to manage reagent lots.
1-1
1: General Precautions for Use
Specimens
Applicable specimen type for the AIA-1800 is indicated on the insert sheet provided with reagents for
each analyte. Any questions regarding specimen assay operations should be addressed to a Tosoh
Service Center or local representative.
You are asked to avoid assaying the following types of specimens, as you can affect system operation.
(1) Specimens that have a tendency to clot during the assay process.
(2) Specimens containing solid particles that tend to form occlusions during dispense operations.
(3) Specimens containing alkaline phosphatase inhibitor.
1-2
2: System Configuration and Functionality
AIA-1800
RS-232C
AIA-1800
Control
unit
Do not edit or move any of the files located in the C:\Nexus folder of the controller
PC, as this may make the system unstable.
2-1
2: System Configuration and Functionality
Avoid editing system parameter files, as this may make the system unstable.
Refer to the CD burning software help for information on operating the CD-RW
drive.
- Wait until system operation has terminated before backing up Nexus system files.
- Attempting to perform backup operations while the system is in operation may
damage the files.
2-2
2: System Configuration and Functionality
2.3. Specifications
Main Specifications
Assay principal Fluorometric enzyme immunoassay (FEIA)
Processing method Automated continuance random access
Processing capacity Max. 180 tests/h (ST reagents)
In vitro diagnostic reagent AIA-PACK Series
Sample volumes 10 to 125 µl
Sample clot detection Pressure detection (Note 1)
Measuring conditions Reaction temperature: 37 degree Celsius
Antigen-antibody reaction time: 10 min. or 40 min.
(depending on assay specification)
Specimen dilution factors 2 per assay specification selectable in the 2 to 625 range
Specimen pretreatment Automatic pretreatment (10 min. at 37 degree Celsius)
Detection method Fluorescent measurement (top-to-top system)
Precision control Levey-Jennings charts
Reagent Sorter
Reagent set count Max. 31 trays (equivalent to 31 analytes and 620 tests)
Can be added or changed at any time by key request
Sample Loader
Specimen set count ST model: 170 specimens, (add/ change as required)
LA model: 90 specimens, (add/ change as required)
STAT: 1 specimen
Sample containers Test tubes :13x75, 13x100, 16x75, 16x100(Diameter x Long)
Can be used in combination with dedicated sample cups
Specimen barcodes CODE39, CODE128, ITF, NW-7 compatible (compliant with
ASTM14466-92 and CLA guideline compliant bar codes)
Min. element width: 0.191 (0.254 or over recommended)
Tip/Reagent Loader
Tip Dedicated tips
Tip set count 288 (96/rack, in 3 racks)
Reagent set count Holds a max. of 8 reagent types
Can be added or changed at any time by key request
External Input/Output
RS-232C (for connecting controller PC and Beltline)
Power Supply/Power Consumption
100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 500 VA (excluding controller PC and printer)
External Dimensions/Weight (excluding controller PC and monitor)
1800 ST 1650 (W) x 930 (D) x 1250 (H) mm Approx.300 kg
1800 LA 1650 (W) x 1100 (D) x 1250 (H) mm Approx.300 kg
Operating Environment
Temperature 15 to 30 degree Celsius
Humidity 40% to 80% (with no condensation)
Dust Average office level
Conformity Standard
EMC standard IEC60601-1-2: 2001
CISPR class and group categories Class A, Group 1
FCC Part 15, Sub Part B, Class A
Note 1: Sample clot at nozzle tip will be checked after specimen suction and reported by flag “SC” if vacuum
pressure exceeded approximately 10% or more of that when it is completely clogged.
Another flag UC, which does not work at the default setting, will be reported if the system detected
abnormal vacuum pressure variance during specimen suction.
2-3
2: System Configuration and Functionality
2-4
2: System Configuration and Functionality
10 Controller PC operating
unit
(Monitor, keyboard and mouse)
3 Sample loader
(Specimen set position)
12 Drawer handle
6 (From left)
Wash solution tank, Diluent tank
8 Waste tank
2-5
2: System Configuration and Functionality
2-6
2: System Configuration and Functionality
2-7
2: System Configuration and Functionality
Menus
Request: Includes Clear, Open, Save and Print Page Setup settings
Log: Displays the error log
Database: Closes the system database and opens past data
Version: Displays program version details
Toolbar
Displays current reagent information.
Click on each tool button to display submenus.
Check box
Text box
Tree view
Simply click on any item in the list to display the desired form. Button Form
Operation of the software is based around using the tree view
to switch between forms.
2-8
2: System Configuration and Functionality
2-9
2: System Configuration and Functionality
2-10
3: System Installation, Transportation, and Storage
This chapter provides specific guidelines to be followed both before and after installation of the AIA-1800
system.
The AIA-1800 is a high-precision analyser that requires careful adjustment according to specific standards to
ensure stable and reliable operation. Tosoh or local representatives dispatch service personnel trained in
installation and maintenance procedures to oversee system delivery and installation. It is recommended that the
AIA-1800 system be installed in accordance with instructions provided by the service personnel.
3-1
3: System Installation, Transportation, and Storage
System Dimensions
ST model: 1650mm (W) x 930mm (D) x 1250mm (H)
LA model: 1650mm (W) x 1100mm (D) x 1250mm (H)
For both the ST and LA models, height of 1900 mm is needed when the cover is open.
It is important to ensure sufficient peripheral space exists to accommodate flow of ventilation from
internal cooling fans. Also avoid directly exposing the system to exhaust discharged by nearby
equipment.
3-2
3: System Installation, Transportation, and Storage
Start
Beltline
Choose specimen
location
Sample Loader
Not used
Use of barcodes
Controller PC Controller PC
Sample Sample Sample Loader Beltline Beltline
Loader Loader Barcode-Query Barcode Barcode-Query
Non-Barcode Barcode
Note that Beltline mode is not available with the ST model. (All operating modes are
available for the LA model).
3-3
MEMO
4: Overview of System Operation
The procedures for loading specimens are described in the following sections. Be sure to follow these
procedures when operating the AIA-1800 main unit.
(2) Take out the wash solution tank and remove the lid.
Note that the wash solution and diluent tanks are of the same shape and size. Be
sure to select the one of the correct colour (orange). Selecting the wrong tank
will directly affect assay results.
(3) Refer to the insert sheet of Wash when mixing wash solution.
It is important to mix Wash and pure water in the correct proportions. Failure to
do so will result in an uneven concentration gradient in the tank that will
adversely affect assay results.
4-1
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Open the diluent compartment by gently pressing on the lower front doors of the AIA-1800
main unit.
Diluent Tank
(2) Take out the diluent tank and remove the lid.
Note that the diluent and wash solution tanks are of the same shape and size. Be
sure to select the one of the correct colour (green). Selecting the wrong tank will
directly affect assay results.
Take care not to spill diluent in the compartment by immediately transferring the
feed tube to another container when disconnecting it from the tank. Fluid
leakage is a potential source of current leakage and electrical shock.
(3) Refer to the insert sheet of Diluent when mixing the diluent.
It is important to mix Diluent and pure water in the correct proportions. Failure
to do so will result in an uneven concentration gradient in the tank that will
affect assay results.
4-2
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Open the waste solution compartment by gently pressing on the lower front doors of the
AIA-1800 main unit.
Handle
Waste Tank
(2) Grasp handle and pull forward gently to remove the waste tank.
(3) Place the waste tank on the floor and confirm that any fluid remaining in the tube flows into
the tank.
- Avoid removing the lid before placing the tank on the floor, as this can result in
fluid spillages.
- Be sure to wear appropriate protective clothing, such as gloves, when handling
the waste tank, as waste solution has been contaminated by potentially infectious
specimens.
- Take care not to spill waste solution in the compartment by immediately
transferring the outlet tube to another container when disconnecting it from the
tank. Fluid leakage is a potential source of current leakage and electrical shock.
4-3
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Open the waste compartment by gently pressing on the lower front doors of the AIA-1800
main unit
Waste Box
(3) Remove the waste bags containing discarded cups and tips and dispose of them at the
designated location.
(4) Place new waste bags in the waste box and return the box to its normal position.
Point
Note that the discarded tips drop into the bag at the front, while cups drop into
the bag at the back, and that the sizes of the bags differ.
4-4
4: Overview of System Operation
(5) Close the lower front doors of the AIA-1800 main unit.
(6) After disposing of the waste cups, go to the Waste Cup menu on the Toolbar and reset
Waste Cup status.
(7) After disposing of the waste tips go to the Waste Tip menu on the Toolbar and reset Waste
Tip status.
Note that waste cups and tips are counted as they are discarded. Waste Cup
Point
status changes from “OK” to “Full” when the count reaches 2000. Tip status
changes when the count reaches 1600. Resetting changes status back to “OK”
and clears the count to zero.
Waste box content is not sensor-monitored, so always check the waste level
prior to commencing system operation.
4-5
4: Overview of System Operation
Substrate Bottle
Compartment
Always install the substrate bottle with the label facing the front. The substrate
level optical sensor is located at the rear, so having the label face the rear will
cause sensing errors.
(6) Close the lower front doors on the AIA-1800 main unit.
Avoid placing the potential sources of sparks or flame near substrate lines, as
the substrate cleaning solution consists of 70% ethanol.
4-6
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Press the Reagent/Tips key on the AIA-1800 main unit control panel.
If the LED on the Reagent/Tips key is continuously red, either a 2-step reagent
(conjugate) dispense operation or pretreatment is in progress. The
Reagent/Tips key must not be pressed, as this may cause the assay process to
abort with loss of the results.
(3) The LED changes to green to indicate that the lock has been released.
(5) Pull out the tip rack and replenish the sample tips. A single rack holds 96 sample tips.
4-7
4: Overview of System Operation
(6) Replace the tip rack by aligning it with the positioning pins. The Reagent/Tips loader holds
a maximum of three tip racks (a total of 288 tips).
(7) The AIA-1800 automatically detects the current number of sample tips when the cover is
closed. (Reagent/Tips scan)
Avoid opening sample tip cover for long periods of time when working with
2-step reagents and pretreatment solutions. Skipping and the loss of assay
results may occur when timing coincides with conjugate dispense or
pretreatment operations.
Point The system detects the presence of a tip in the far back line of the rack as a row
of 12 tips. Therefore, it is important to fill each row without leaving any
vacancies.
Note that inventory is not updated if tip positions in the back row remained
unchanged between opening and closing the Reagent/Tips cover. Therefore, it
is important not to remove tips from the first partially full row, as this is included
in the inventory count.
In the example below where the count has fallen to 124, the system assumes that no tips were
replenished and maintains the same count. This is because there was no change in the back row
of tips after the cover was opened and closed (using Reagent/Tips key). (Count not updated to
131.)
4-8
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Press the Reagent/Tips key on the AIA-1800 main unit control panel.
A continuously red LED on the Reagent/Tips key indicates that either a 2-step
reagent (conjugate) dispense operation or pretreatment is in progress. The
Reagent/Tips key must not be pressed, as this may cause the assay process to
abort with loss of the results.
(3) The LED changes to green to indicate that the cover lock has been released.
(5) Load the conjugate and Sample Diluent Solution into the rack with barcode labels facing
the front
Positioning pin
4-9
4: Overview of System Operation
(7) Close the cover. The Reagent type and lot number are automatically read when the cover
is closed. (Reagent/Tips scan)
(8) The Reagent/Tips key LED flashes red during the Reagent/Tips scan.
Avoid leaving the sample tip cover open for long periods when working with
2-step reagents and pretreatment solutions, as this can cause skipping and the
loss of assay results when it coincides with conjugate or pretreatment
operations.
Point - The different types of solutions are managed using serial numbers included in
the barcode label. The system uses the previous remaining level value when a
barcode read record exists. Level detect values from the next fluid feed operation
are used to update the level value.
- Pretreatment solution 2 must be set on the right side position of pretreatment
solution 1.
- The solution 2 which has no barcode label is automatically registered the right
side position of the solution 1 registered with barcode.
4-10
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Specimens can be loaded in their test tubes or only dispensed in required amounts into
Tosoh sample cups and loaded into sample racks.
Note that sample cup adapters must be installed in the sample rack when using the Tosoh
sample cups.
Sample Cup
Point The dead-volume specification is 100 µl for Tosoh sample cups and 500 µl for
straight round-bottomed test tubes.
Note that sampling results cannot be guaranteed for tapered test tubes. Feel
free to contact a Tosoh service center or local representative for information on
the type of test tubes that can be used.
In barcode mode, install test tubes with the barcode label facing towards the
opening in the sample rack.
Make sure barcode labels are within the valid barcode read range, as illustrated
in the figure below. Dirty, wrinkled labels or crooked labels will affect barcode
reading.
4-11
4: Overview of System Operation
(2) When loading the sample rack into the sample loader, position with the rack opening
facing the back.
The sample loader feeds sample racks in the circulating format illustrated below. The
loading order is from right back to right front and left front going to left back.
An upright retainer guide is positioned on the right side of the sample rack.
Make sure to load sample racks aligned to the groove on the right. Failure to do
so disables the upright retainer function and affects sample rack motion.
(3) Load the sample racks to be assayed and insert an end marker or an empty sample rack at
the end.
With specimen
No specimen
4-12
4: Overview of System Operation
(4) If planning additional assay tasks after an operation has started, load new sample racks
only after dispensing of the previous rack has completed and the sample loader has
stopped.
(5) Use the Pause function in cases where the sample loading requires significant amount of
time. Go to Assay on the Toolbar and select Pause from the drop-down menu.
(6) Load additional sample racks after the sample loader has stopped.
(7) Either an end marker or an empty rack must also be inserted at the end of the new sample
racks.
Additional Racks
Point When adding specimens frequently, End pointer can be used for pointing the
very end so that adding point is easily shown.
End pointer
END
4-13
4: Overview of System Operation
- Confirm that the sample loader has stopped before loading the new racks. Doing
so while the loader is operating may result in stoppages caused by rack feed
errors.
- An end marker or an empty rack must be inserted at the end; otherwise the loader
will continue its circulating motion. Locations where sample racks cannot be
loaded are shown below.
4-14
4: Overview of System Operation
(1) Check to see if the lamp on the left of the STAT port has turned green.
Lamp
Do not open port when lamp is red, as this may damage the sampling nozzle.
(2) STAT port door can be opened by turning the knob to the right.
13 diameter adapter
4-15
4: Overview of System Operation
The red LED on the Cup Sorter key indicates that a pretreatment operation is in
progress. The Sorter key must not be pressed during this operation, as this will
cause the assay process to be skipped and results to be lost.
(2) The Cup Sorter key LED flashes for a few seconds.
(3) When the led changes to green, the lock has been released and the Sorter Drawer can be
opened.
(4) Open the Sorter Drawer.
Handle
Point Load test cup trays into the drawer with the barcode labels facing the front,
otherwise they cannot be read by the unit.
Avoid leaving the sorter drawer open for long periods when working with
pretreatment reagents, as skipping and the loss of assay results may result
when coinciding with pretreatment operations.
(6) After the loading, push the drawer fully to the back to close the Sorter Drawer.
(7) The test cup specifications, lots and numbers are automatically read while the Cup Sorter
LED flashes red. (Sorter scan)
Always use drawer handle when opening and closing the Sorter Drawer, as
attempting to grasp other parts may result in injury to hands or fingers.
4-16
5: Operational Flow
5: Operational Flow
The following flow chart illustrates the workflow during a standard operation performed using the AIA-1800
system. Referred to “Chapter 6: System Operation” for a detailed description of system operation. System
operations can roughly be divided according to whether specimens are supplied by the use of the built-in
sample loader or the beltline unit.
The AIA-1800 system provides three basic operating modes. These are the Non-Barcode, Barcode and Host
Query modes.
Start
Yes
Parameters entered?
Finish
5-1
5: Operational Flow
5-2
6. System Operation
6: System Operation
(4) Double-click the AIA-1800 icon on the desktop to launch the AIA-1800 program. This
displays the following dialog box.
(7) This starts the system initialisation sequence and displays the following splash screen until
initialisation is completed.
6-1
6. System Operation
Clicking Daily Maintenance in the tree view menu displays the following screen.
Inspection procedures,
progress and results are
displayed here.
6-2
6. System Operation
(7) Reagent
Install SDS, conjugate and other required reagents in the Reagent/Tips loader, then click
the check box.
(8) Tips
Replenish tips in the Reagent/Tips loader as necessary, then click the check box.
(9) Wash Nozzle Inspection
Perform maintenance of the wash nozzle as necessary, then click the check box. Clean
the wash nozzle once a week and replace the No. 3 wash probe tip once a month. For a
description of cleaning procedures, refer to Chapter 9: Section 9.2.1 Cleaning the Wash
Probe. For a description of replacement procedures, refer to Chapter 9: Section 9.3.2
Replacing Probe Tips on No. 3 Wash Probe.
(10) Lot Number Entry for Common Reagents
Entering lot numbers for wash solution, diluent, and substrate in the upper right text boxes
in the Daily Maintenance screen. This enables these lot numbers to be recorded in the
online maintenance checklist.
(11) Click the Start button after all items on the maintenance checklist have been verified.
Point - Maintenance routine progress reports are displayed in text form in the lower half
of the screen.
- Once the Start button is clicked and processing begins, this changes to the red
Abort button. Note that other menu screens cannot be loaded while the daily
maintenance routine is in progress.
“2296: Wash probe 1 flush failure” appears when wash probe 1 flush fails.
“2297: Wash probe 2 flush failure” appears when wash probe 2 flush fails.
“2298: Wash probe 3 flush failure” appears when wash probe 3 flush fails.
These messages indicate that air was not completely flushed from the wash solution lines.
If errors occur, press the Reagents/Tips key, open the cover and check inside for possible
causes of the malfunction. After this, go to the toolbar, click Prime Wash, Solution then
Prime Diluent to repeat the flush procedure until the lines are full and the errors stop.
Contact Tosoh service centre or local representative if error messages still appear after
five flushes.
The wash probes are designed to draw wash solution that was dispensed into the detector
standardization cup. The following error messages appear when a problem occurs.
“2293: Probe 1 suction failure” appears when probe 1 suction operation fails.
“2294: Probe 2 suction failure” appears when probe 2 suction operation fails.
“2295: Probe 3 suction failure” appears when probe 3 suction operation fails.
6-3
6. System Operation
If these appear, check the wash probe tip for foreign matter. If clogged, refer to the probe
tip cleaning procedures described in Chapter 9: Section 9.2.1 Cleaning Wash Probe.
Contact Tosoh service centre or local representative if messages still appear after the
probe tip has been cleaned.
<2> Measurement results are displayed as soon as the measuring operation completes.
The following results are displayed.
- Substrate Priming
In the event of a prime failure, make sure there is substrate in the substrate bottle
loaded in the AIA-1800 unit. If the “Error has occurred” message appears even
when substrate is present, the substrate prime detect parameter probably needs
adjusting. It is recommended you contact a Tosoh service centre or local
representative.
6-4
6. System Operation
6.2.3. Checklists
Daily maintenance results are recorded in the online maintenance checklist, displayed by
clicking Checklist in the Tree view Menu. The list records up to 1,100 entries.
Use the Up and Down arrow keys to "All List" displays all results. Print
select entries in the order of date. displays a preview of print image.
6-5
6. System Operation
Point - The number of characters that can be input in the comment cell is up to 48, but
just its first 26 characters can be printed out.
- The following messages will not be printed out: “Ref BG”, “Smp BG”, “Ref Sub”,
and “Smp Sub”.
6-6
6. System Operation
Top List:
Tip: Displays current, requested and required tip counts and estimated
time of shortage
Specimen Treatment Cup: Displays current, requested and required specimen treatment
cup (STC) count and estimated time of shortage
Standard cup: Displays current, requested and required standardization cup (STD)
count and estimated time of shortage
Middle List:
Displays the current, requested and required test cup count and estimated time to shortage.
The current inventory (test count) of conjugate is displayed on the reagent worksheet bottom
list in the case of 2-step reagents.
Point
If the conjugate inventory is not checked, current inventory count (test count) is
designated as “unknown.”
Bottom List:
Displays current, requested and required SDS and pretreatment solution inventory and
estimated time to shortage.
Point - If current SDS and pretreatment solution inventory is not checked, the current
inventory is designated as “unknown.”
- Inventory levels are updated by the level check performed during dispense
operations.
6-7
6. System Operation
6-8
6. System Operation
Clicking the Reagent/Tips key displays the following pop-up dialog box when the No. 3 Tip Rack
has been designated as a reagent load area.
The barcode labels on reagent bottles in this area cannot be read automatically, so must be
registered in the screen using the bar code scanner.
6-9
6. System Operation
Some parameters may not be edited depending on the authority allocated to a user.
For detailed description of Test File parameters, refer to Chapter 10: Appendix 1 Test Files.
6-10
6. System Operation
Calibration curves are generated and managed using the reagent lot numbers
Point
read by either the sorter or the Reagent/Tips loader units. This means that the
immunoassay reagents (test cups and conjugate) must be loaded prior to the
curve generation step.
(2) Confirm the reagents required to generate calibration curves are in the inventory list.
(3) When using 2-step reagents, confirm that the analyte names and lot numbers listed in the
Test Cup section and Reagent section match.
6-11
6. System Operation
(2) Click the Calibration button to display the following dialog box.
(3) Select the check box next to the desired analyte in the Valid Analyte list on the left and click
the Add button. Then confirm selection and click the OK button to generate the calibration
request.
- The test cup analyte and lot numbers in the sorter are displayed next to the check
Point boxes in the list. Blue in the “Analyte” box shows the analytes with valid
calibration, Red with no calibration and Orange shows an expired calibration.
- Note that requests for calibration checks are automatically generated when
calibration checks have been validated in the QC Materials Registration screen.
For a detailed description, refer to Chapter 7: Section 7.2 Registering QC
Materials.
6-12
6. System Operation
Assigned values
Use the Test File screen for entering the calibrator lot numbers and assigned values for
analytes not included in the sorter unit inventory.
<1> Go to the tree view and click Test File.
<2> Select the analyte to be calibrated.
<3> Click on the calibrator Lot No. cell.
<4> Use the handheld barcode scanner to scan the calibrator barcode from the
barcode sheet included with the calibrator set.
<5> Click the Conc. cell for the CAL(1).
<6> Use the handheld scanner to scan the CAL (1) barcode from the barcode sheet of
the calibrator set
<7> Use the same procedures to read with the assigned values for calibrators from
CAL (2) on.
Always register calibrator assigned values in incremental order starting with the
calibrator with the lowest value (CAL 1, CAL 2, …) to ensure correct assay
results.
6.5.4. Worklists
Worklists can be previewed as soon as the calibration request is complete by clicking the Print
button on the Request (non-barcode) screen. The worklist can also be printed out.
6-13
6. System Operation
(1) Go to the toolbar, click Assay and select the Start Assay menu item.
(2) Select the desired mode. In the case of non-barcode calibration, enter the last record
number for each request. Normally barcodes are not put on calibrators dispensed in
sample cups, so select the NonBarcode mode and click the OK button.
6-14
6. System Operation
Date & time: Date and time calibration curve was generated
Analyte: Analyte name
Lot: Lot no. of test cups
Sts: Void (expired)
Void+ (The numbers after “+” denotes the number of the days passing from the
expiration.)
Accepted (fixed)
Pending (not fixed)
Assay in progress
Rate 1 to 6: Mean value (rate value) of results for each calibrator
Conc: Calibrator assigned values
Rate: Calibrator rate value
Dil: Calibrator dilution factor
Flag: Calculation flag
Pos.: Calibrator calibration position, used as key for position changes
Rept.: Measurement order for calibrators of identical concentration
Point For a “void” calibration curve, the assay result with the CV flag is displayed. But
for a “void+” curve, because the concentration is not calculated, the assay
result cannot be displayed.
6-15
6. System Operation
Editing Data
Unnecessary data can be eliminated by simply unchecking the checkboxes in the Deci column
under the Pending status.
Concentration priority can be changed in the Edit tab at the upper right of the screen. Redundant
calibration curve data can also be deleted by clicking the Delete button on the Edit tab.
The more calibrations, the longer the access and processing times required for
Point
curve data. Maximum calibrations should be limited to 300 and unnecessary
data regularly deleted.
The delete button on the Edit tab deletes the currently displayed calibration curve
To ensure accuracy of the calibration curve calculation, data needs to be entered in order. The
Reposition button on the Edit tab enables calibration results to be sorted in ascending or
descending order.
Going to the Graph Info tab and selecting the Graph Memory checkbox stores the graph to be
overlaid, enabling overlaying of subsequent calibration result graphs. Unchecking the box cancels
the graph overlay function.
The graph can be overlaid on only when the data are of the same analyte and the same lot.
6-16
6. System Operation
6-17
6. System Operation
(4) Confirm test cup lot numbers, as they are required for confirming the presence of
calibration curves.
(5) When using 2-step reagents, go to the Inventory tab and confirm that the analyte names
and lot numbers listed in the inventory cells in the analyte cup section and reagent section
match.
(6) Confirm that the SDS for each analyte is listed in the Reagent section of the Inventory tab
when dilution is required.
(7) Then check the Reagent Table to confirm availability of reagents.
6-18
6. System Operation
<1> Go to the Material cell and select specimen type from the dropdown box.
<2> Select Specimen ID, then enter the barcode IDs either manually or using the handheld
barcode scanner.
<3> Double clicking Analyte 1 displays a dialog box of valid analytes. Select the desired
analyte and click OK. Multiple analytes can be selected at one time.
The box displays the dilution factors in the test file for
Sp. 1 and Sp. 2. These settings can also be entered
manually.
Items with dilution factors exceeding 1 are displayed
together with dilution factor in worksheet form.
6-19
6. System Operation
Specimen Information
Patient information is entered in the top half of the screen.
Clicking an assay request line enables patient information for that specimen ID to be either
entered or confirmed.
6-20
6. System Operation
Point Note that all remaining requests are stored at program shutdown, even if not
previously saved.
This shows a list of registered QC materials and their lot numbers. Choose the desired QC
material by selecting the check box. For a detailed description of the QC material registration
procedure, refer to Chapter 7: Section 7.2 Registering QC Materials.
Next, select analytes for each QC material and click the OK button.
Dilution factors can only be changed by editing the control dilution factor information in the test
file.
Requests can be done from the Barcode request screen when operating with a
beltline unit
Point Only the assay results obtained by putting QC material name to the specimen ID
are used for quality control.
Control data will be checked with the assay range(<L,>H) but will not be
checked with the reference range(L,H) nor the reschedule range(RL,RH).
6-21
6. System Operation
Point - Requests can be automatically generated by simply entering the first position
and dragging and dropping the required lines of the request.
- Note that non-barcode assay requests are not valid for Beltline operation.
- Specimens without barcodes cannot be automatically rescheduled.
6-22
6. System Operation
The downloaded request is displayed in the following dialog box. Select the data to be
assayed, then select the mode and copy to Assay Request screen. Any unnecessary lines
can be deleted from this form.
Any requests issued unilaterally by the host computer will appear as “Reservations” beneath
“Host” on the toolbar.
This dialog box can also be displayed by clicking on Host on the toolbar and selecting from the
Download List.
Although requests for controls can be issued from the host computer, control
results cannot be used as quality control data unless the QC material name is
used as the specimen ID.
6-23
6. System Operation
When the AIA-1800 reads the specimen ID barcode, it searches the database for an existing
assay request. If not found, it queries the host computer. If an assay request for the specimen
ID is still not found, the specimen is skipped.
6-24
6. System Operation
Control and specimen loading positions can be checked in the Assay Request
Point screen. Specimen volumes, on the other hand, are checked by clicking the Print
button in the Assay Request screen and displaying the worklist.
Load a sample rack containing specimens with an end marker (or empty sample rack) inserted
at the final position. Note that the sample loader will simply continue operating unless if
detects the end marker.
With specimen
No specimen
End Marker
Empty Rack
Confirm that the sample loader has stopped before attempting to load new
sample racks. Doing so while the loader is still operating may result in
stoppages caused by rack feed errors.
Locations where sample racks cannot be loaded are shown below.
The sampling operation ends normally when the sample loader detects the end marker and
stops. If planning additional assay tasks, be sure to load a sample rack containing specimens
and insert a rack containing an end marker before starting.
6-25
6. System Operation
(2) Select the desired assay mode. Be sure to enter the number of the last line (last sequence)
of the assay request when operating in non-barcode mode.
Point System operating modes can be switched between batch processing units.
(3) The Beltline option is included in the mode list on the LA model. Select Beltline mode when
operating from the Beltline.
(4) Clicking the OK button now starts the assay operation. If Clear Assay Monitor is checked,
all data from previous assay operations will be cleared from the Assay Monitor.
The following warning dialog box indicates a reagent shortage. Replenish the
reagent and click OK. Note that affected tests will be skipped if the OK button is
clicked without replenishing reagent.
6-26
6. System Operation
Previous batch
Additional
batch
END
- Note that additional assay requests cannot be added to the batch once assay
operation has started.
- When entering additional assay operations before the sampling operation for the
current batch has completed, first select Pause to stop the sample loader, then
load the new sample racks. Not pausing the sample loader before loading may
result in stoppages caused by rack feed errors.
- Note that additional assays cannot be entered during automatic retest assay
operations.
When adding new racks while the sample loader is paused, be sure to position
the sample racks in front of the designated line to ensure racks load properly
(see the appropriate warning labels).
6-27
6. System Operation
(2) Enter specimen Material type, Specimen ID and specimen container Type.
The STAT port is not equipped with specimen container sensors, so the correct
container type (sample cup or primary tube) must be entered in the Container
Type cell. Incorrect settings can cause abnormal assay results and / or even
damage the sampling nozzle.
(3) Double clicking analytes 1 (to 24) displays the following analyte entry dialog box.
(4) The dialog box shows a list of valid analytes, which are selected by highlighting and
clicking the OK button. The dilution factors displayed for each specimen type can be
modified by clicking the Dil cell.
(5) Right clicking on Analyte cell displays a pop-up menu of registered panels, enabling batch
entry of analytes.
(6) Enter specimen information as necessary once the STAT assay request has been entered
(entry of all information not required).
6-28
6. System Operation
Lamp
Do not open STAT port when lamp is red, as this may damage the sampling
nozzle.
13 diameter
adapters
6-29
6. System Operation
6-30
6. System Operation
6-31
6. System Operation
The incomplete sample or the rescheduled sample can be displayed clicking the List button.
6-32
6. System Operation
The dialog box for the incomplete sample list cannot be edited. The list will not be updated
automatically but by clicking the Update button.
The rescheduled sample list can be found in the dialog box for the rescheduled samples.
An assay request can be created using this list. After selecting the request mode, either
Barcode or NonBarcode, choose the records to be re-assayed, and then click the Create
Request button. The chosen records will be deleted from the list and a new request will be
created accordingly on the Assay Request screen. Some requests in the request screen can
be deleted if they are not necessary.
The dialog box of the reschedule list automatically appears when a result was
Point
judged as reschedule.
The records judged as retest will not be displayed on the reschedule list.
6-33
6. System Operation
Patient information can be displayed at the upper right of the screen by clicking on individual
cells.
Specimens whose assay results could not be obtained are displayed on the left side of the
screen, enabling easy sorting and confirmation of specimen positions when rescheduling an
assay operation.
Point This function is available for assay operations performed using the built-in
sample loader.
6-34
6. System Operation
Each error message has a check box that can be selected to indicate the error was confirmed.
When the entire error message text cannot be seen, double click the cell to
Point expand the size of the cell. Double-click a second time to restore the cell to its
original dimensions.
Error logs can be deleted by selecting the area, right clicking and then selecting
“delete”. Note that they will not be recovered if once deleted.
6-35
6. System Operation
6-36
6. System Operation
6.10.2. Specimens
To view routine specimen assay results, go to the tree view, click Assay Results and select
Specimens, which displays the following screen. STAT specimen results are also included.
Point - The latest data is shown in the first line of the table.
- To view only STAT specimen results, click Assay Results and select STAT
specimen.
Cell Definitions
Specimen ID: ID of specimen being assayed
Analyte: Assay analyte
Dil: Assay dilution factor
Result: Assay result
Unit: Unit of the assay result
Flag 1: System flags. For a detailed description of flags, refer to Chapter 12:
Appendix 3: Types of Flags.
Flag 2: Calculation flags
Flag 3: Verification flags
Date time: Most recent date and time of assay result calculation
Status: Assay result status
Pending
Reject
Final
Host: Status of result transmission to host computer
I unsent
X send
Operator: Name of operator performing assay operation
Rate value: Rate value
Lot No.: Lot no. of test cup used in assay operation
Position: Specimen position number
Confirmed by: Name of the operator verifying assay results
Assay date and time: Date and time assay operation was performed
6-37
6. System Operation
Button Functions
Recalc
Used to perform recalculation of assay results using valid calibration curves. Select the target
data, then click the Recalc button.
Point Only assay results showing the “Pending” status can be recalculated.
Verify
Used to check the integrity of results, “Pending” assay results will be either accepted as Final
or Rejected. Data selection procedure is identical to that for Windows. Refer to the Examples
illustrated in the foregoing Recalculate button description.
About Delete UC flag (UC flag function is set as no working at the default setting)
When abnormal pressure is detected during specimen suction, the UC flag will be
attached to the result. The possible causes are the suction of clot or air or high viscosity of
the sample. If the same flag were attached to the retested result even after the removal of
clots or bubbles from the specimen, then high viscosity of the sample would be most
probable. If the result was reproduced and thus the result would be no concern, then the
UC flag could be deleted from the result selecting “Delete UC flag” on the Verification
dialog.
Upload
Used to transmit assay results to the host computer. Select the target data, then click the
Upload button.
The data selection procedure is identical to that of Windows operation. Refer to the examples
above.
6-38
6. System Operation
Reschedule
To reschedule an assay request. Select the results to be re-assayed, then click the
Reschedule button and the reschedule list dialog will appear. After selecting request mode,
whether Barcode or NonBarcode, choose records to request then click the “Create Request”
button.
The first search condition can be entered by clicking the Add (AND) button and additional
search conditions can be added by clicking the Add (AND) or the Add (OR) buttons.
6-39
6. System Operation
Clicking the upper Find button shows the results that meet the search condition set.
Frequent used search condition sets can be registered into the Register Condition List box
using the Register button. Clicking the lower Find button shows the results that meet the
registered condition set. Use the Delete list button to delete research conditions from the
registered list.
When clicking the upper Find button, the input value dialog will appear as below. After
inputting Specimen ID, click OK. Then the results with the same Specimen ID will be searched
and be displayed on the screen.
All
Clicking All discards search conditions and displays all assay results.
Print
The Print feature allows a printout of the current screen with or without patient information
added (by selecting the check box).
Select the target data then click the Print button. Refer to the examples illustrated above for
the data selection procedure.
Real time reports are printed in the order that data arrives, which means that the most recent
data is printed last.
6-40
6. System Operation
Sort
The order of results displayed on the screen can be specified by the settings in the Sort dialog
box. Three sort keys are available.
These sort conditions are stored automatically. Choose "<None >" at the top of the list to clear
the sort condition.
When no condition is specified for these three keys, the lower most condition is applied.
Point Assay results can be used in other applications by first copying them to the
Clipboard.
(1) Double clicking the mouse switches from line selection to cell selection.
(2) Drag the mouse to select the section of data to copy.
(3) Press Ctrl-C (hold down Ctrl while pressing C) to transfer the data to the Clipboard.
(4) Double clicking the mouse once more to return to line selection mode.
6-41
6. System Operation
6.10.3. Controls
To view control specimen assay results, go to the tree view, click Assay Results and select
Control. The menu items and button functions are identical to those provided in the Assay
Results/Specimens screen.
6-42
6. System Operation
6.11. Retest
Retest condition is defined on Flag and Rules screen as follows, (See 8.2 Utilities- Flag and Rules for
further information)
(1) Retest
Retest the sample on the same analytes with the same condition
(2) Retest (TestFileDil.)
Dilute the sample with the dilution factor defined in Test File and retest it on the same
analytes.
(3) Retest (Panel)
Retest the sample on analytes defined in Panel
(It is possible to apply other dilution factor that is not defined in Test File.)
When assay results meet the retest condition, Retest Mode starts. The cell colour turns to be
light blue.
After sampling process on all of requested samples is finished, sample racks are rotated
quickly seeking for the samples to be tested again. Sample rack loading stops as the
corresponded barcode label is found. The sample position must be identical to the original
position. The sought samples are tested with the retest condition defined above.
6-43
6. System Operation
It is recommended that operators perform an emergency stop of the system during assay operations
when the possibility of the system causing personal injury, and/or fire arises.
(1) Turn the power switch on the left side of the main unit off.
(2) Take first-aid measures as necessary to limit any injury or damage.
(3) Report all details of the incident to the nearest Tosoh service centre or local
representative and follow the instructions provided by the service personnel.
Note that the normal shutdown routines will not be performed when the power
supply switch is used to terminate operation.
6-44
6. System Operation
When assay operations have completed, store specimens, immunoassay reagents and other materials
that deteriorate at room temperature to a refrigerator. Prime the substrate lines with Substrate
Replacement Solution (70% ethanol).
(1) Remove specimens from the sample loader and the entire rack that contains conjugate
and SDS from the Reagent/Tips loader and transfer them to refrigerator.
Cover the tops of the reagent bottles using parafilm etc.
(2) Remove all test cups from the sorter and transfer to refrigerator.
(3) Transfer substrate bottles to refrigerator and replace with Substrate Replacement Solution
bottle.
- The specimen database contains assay data from STAT specimens, routine
Point specimens and control specimens. The QC Database contains QC data.
- It is recommended that the QC Database be closed according to the terms of
Quality Control.
- It is recommended that the specimen database be closed on a daily basis. Log
files will be automatically compressed and stored at the system closing showing
the following message.
- Note that new assay operations cannot be performed until the system is closed in
cases where the current number of assay results exceeds 10,000.
- All specimen results have to be confirmed before the specimen database is
closed, or recalculation cannot be performed.
- Please note that when QC database is closed the database switches to new one
and data in the previous database is not retrievable.
(5) Click the x button located at the top right of the screen, followed by the Yes button shown
below.
6-45
6. System Operation
(6) When the following dialog box prompts you to replace the substrate, confirm that
Substrate Replacement Solution has been set in the substrate compartment and click
“Yes” to commence the substrate flush operation.
(7) The program closes when this procedure has completed. Turn the main power switch off.
6-46
7. Maintaining System Precision
Point The data displayed in the Levey-Jennings chart is comprised of the assay results
for controls requested as QC materials, which results must have been finalized. It
also includes finalized data filed as calibration checks.
The above screen is the Levey-Jennings chart that can be displayed by selecting “QC Material Name,
Lot and Analyte”. The daily average Levey-Jennings Chart data are displayed on the right of the screen.
Double-clicking a cell displays a dialog box containing detailed data, which can be used to delete
unnecessary data. The authority of Administrator is required to delete unnecessary data.
The R1 to R6 flag assessment results, which are entered using the QC-Selectable Rules screen are
displayed in graph and worksheet form. Also shown in the graph is the calibration log.
The Period is used to set the date range for the Levey-Jennings chart displayed.
7-1
7. Maintaining System Precision
The Update Button (QC update) is used to update the Mean, SD and CV values (expected values), as
well as the Levey-Jennings chart.
Point Pressing F1 key enables “expected” values (mean, SD and CV) to appear on the
input form. Pressing F2 key enables SelectCumulative values (mean, SD and CV)
to appear on the input form.
Statistical Information
Control range(Expected)
Date: The updated date
Mean: Expected average value (corresponds to the mean value of the graph). If the value is
not updated, it is determined from the following formula using the Range Low and
Range High values that were entered when registering the QC material.
Mean = (Range High + Range Low) / 2
SD: Expected standard deviation value (corresponds to the SD value of the graph). If the
value is not updated, it is determined from the following formula using the Range Low
and Range High values that were entered when registering the QC material.
SD = (Range High - Mean) / 2
CV Expected CV%. If the value is not updated, it is determined from the following formula
using the Range Low and Range High values that were entered when registering the
QC material.
CV = (SD / Mean) × 100
Point
Environment settings can be used to specify the display of three items. Not all
information can be shown in a single screen. Undisplayed results can be viewed
by double-clicking on the graph, which will change the results view. For
information on entering settings, refer to Chapter 8: Section 8.5 Other Settings.
When an analyte is selected in an analyte box while pressing the Ctrl key, control data with the
same analyte but with different lots of the QC material can be displayed in the other control
charts.
7-2
7. Maintaining System Precision
(2) Clicking the Add button displays the following dialog box. To add materials, enter the material
name, Lot No. and expiration date and select analytes by checking the boxes, then click the
OK button.
The Add from File button is used to enter QC material data from previously saved files.
Point Note that hyphens (-) cannot be used for QC material names or lot numbers.
(3) Enter upper and lower acceptable limits for each analyte in the Range Low and Range High
cell.
(4) When simultaneously measuring control materials during calibration, check off the Cal. Chk.
cell and enter the repeat count in the Cal. Chk. Reps. cell
(5) Clicking the Del button deletes the currently displayed material name and lot no.
Point
- While users may register QC materials with the same name but differing lot numbers,
only one can be assayed at a time. In this case, the lot number with the Active
checkbox checked specifies the QC material that will be assayed.
- The control material to be used for quality control operations must first be
registered as a QC material. Note that results of unregistered control materials will
not be used as QC data.
7-3
7. Maintaining System Precision
Rules
R1: Result is R1-flagged when one control observation exceeds the specified SD value.
R2: Result is R2-flagged when one control observation exceeds the specified SD value.
R3: Result is R3-flagged when two consecutive control observations exceed the specified
SD value.
R4: Result is R4-flagged when the difference between two consecutive control
observations exceeds the specified SD value.
R5: Result is R5-flagged when four consecutive control observations exceed (in same
direction) the specified SD value.
R6: Result is R6-flagged when ten consecutive control observations fall on the same side
of the mean.
7-4
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Point Note that test files can be saved with respect to each individual analyte.
Press the Print button to display a print preview.
8-1
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Use this function in strict accordance with the instructions provided by Tosoh
to ensure accurate verification of results.
8-2
8. Other Aspects of Operation
8.1.3. Panel
Registering analytes as a panel simplifies complex assay request operations, such as those
used for tumour markers and thyroid hormones, which involve the use of multiple analytes.
(3) Enter panel name and various analytes. Analytes can be selected by clicking on the
Analyte cells and selecting from the dropdown lists.
(4) Note that the panel names entered here can be viewed in the pop-up menus displayed by
right clicking on the Analyte cells in the Assay Request screen. Selecting the panel name
will enable batch entry of all analytes selected.
(5) To delete any unused panels, select the panel name and click the Del button.
8-3
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Selecting the “All Pending” radio button assigns the “Pending” status to all assay results.
Selecting the “User Defined” radio button activates the operation settings specified for each
flag. Completed assay results are either assigned a status or automatically issued an assay
request to reschedule processing, depending on the flag setting.
Flag: (for a detailed description of flags, refer to Chapter 12: Appendix 3: Flags)
Final
Indicates that assay results are accepted and fixed as final.
Pending
Indicates that assay results are pending further decision.
Reject
Indicates that assay results (excluding those for calibrators) were rejected. Same status as
when assay results are rejected in the Result screen.
8-4
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Reschedule
Automatically generates re-assay requests for the assays put flags in previous assay
cycle.
Reschedule (TestFile Dil.)
Automatically generates a re-assay request based on the dilution factor in the Test file.
When “Reschedule (TestFile Dil.)” is set for the flag “>H”, a re-assay request will be
automatically created with the dilution factor used in the previous assay cycle multiplied by
the number which is set in “Default multiplier for >H” in the Test file.
When being set for the flag “DO”, a re-assay request will be automatically created with the
dilution factor used in the previous assay cycle multiplied by the number which is set in
“Default multiplier for DO” in the Test file.
When being set for another flag other than above, a re-assay request will be automatically
created with the dilution factor used in the previous assay cycle multiplied by the number
which is set in “Dilution factor for each specimen (SP1 or SP2 or Control)” in the Test file.
The maximum dilution factor is 625 times.
Reschedule (Panel)
Automatically generates a re-assay request based on a reschedule panel registered on
the Reschedule Panel tab. The panel can be selected on the Panel cell on the right side.
Refer to “8.2.3 Reschedule Panel tab” in this chapter for reschedule panel setting.
Retest
Automatically generates re-assay requests and starts the assay operation.
Retest (TestFile Dil.)
Automatically generates re-assay requests based on the dilution factor in the Test file and
starts the assay operation.
When “Retest (TestFile Dil.)” is set for the flag “>H”, a re-assay request will be
automatically created with the dilution factor used in the previous assay cycle multiplied by
the number which is set in “Default multiplier for >H” in the Test file.
When being set for the flag “DO”, a re-assay request will be automatically created with the
dilution factor used in the previous assay cycle multiplied by the number which is set in
“Default multiplier for DO” in the Test file.
When being set for another flag other than above, a re-assay request will be automatically
created with the dilution factor used in the previous assay cycle multiplied by the number
which is set in “Dilution factor for each specimen (SP1 or SP2 or Control)” in the Test file.
The maximum dilution factor is 625 times.
Retest (Panel)
Automatically generates re-assay requests based on a reschedule panel and starts the
assay operation. The reschedule panel is registered on the Reschedule Panel tab. The
panel can be selected on the Panel cell on the right side. Refer to “8.2.3 Reschedule Panel
tab” in this chapter for reschedule panel setting
Point Flags are displayed in order of priority with the highest priority flag at the top of
the list.
Flags 01 to 99 are all user-definable flags. The various flag verification criteria
are entered using the Rules Tab.
8-5
8. Other Aspects of Operation
8.2.2. Rules
[Types of Criteria]
L : Result (Conc.) is in a Low-range
M : Result (Conc.) is in a Normal-range
H : Result (Conc.) is in a High-range
!L : Result (Conc.) is out of Low range
!M : Result (Conc.) is out of Normal range
!H : Result (Conc.) is out of High range
8-6
8. Other Aspects of Operation
(1) Position the analyte to be assigned the flag on the first line and click the Flag Target
checkbox.
(2) The Reference Range for the Test File is normally entered using the “Low limit” and “High
limit” values (the values entered when the analyte was first entered are used by default.)
(3) With verification criteria, the verifiers (L, M, H, !L, !M, !H) shown in the lower section of the
screen are used to select the type of result values to be flagged.
(4) Two coupling conditions “Or” and “And” are provided and are used according to the
following procedures.
<1> When there is one or zero analyte to be verified, apart from those assigned the flag
(combination conditions are not applied):
Analyte assigned the flags will be flagged when all the verification results are “True”
(items are ignored if the Flag Target checkbox has not been selected.)
<2> When there are multiple analytes to be verified, apart from the one assigned the flag
(and combination condition is “Or”):
When the analyte assigned the flag is “True,” other analytes are checked in sequence
to determine whether their status is True/False/No Result/Not Tested. (See Case A.)
- When “True,” is found, the analyte is flagged and verification terminates.
- When “False,” is found, the analyte is not flagged and verification terminates.
- If all analytes are “No Result,” the analyte is flagged with the “Unverifiable” flag.
- If all analytes are “Not Tested,” verification ends without the analyte being flagged.
<3> When there are multiple analytes to be verified, apart from the one assigned the flag
(and combination condition is “And”):
When the analyte assigned the flag is “True,” other analytes are checked in sequence
to determine whether their status is True/False/No Result /Not Tested. (See Case B.)
In this case all analytes are verified.
- If all analytes are “True,” the analyte is flagged.
- If any analyte is “False,” the analyte is not flagged.
- If any analyte is “No Result,” the analyte is flagged with the “Unverifiable” flag.
- If any analyte is “Not Tested,” and there are no “No Result”, the analyte is not flagged
Verifications are performed at the point when all assay results required for the specimen in
question have been completed.
Assay results include the following indicators
Result normal: Assay result of the detected concentration. Results “DO,” “>H” or
“<L” are verified. In the case of DO, concentrations are verified as
either very high or very low, depending on calibration factor.
No result: Indicates inability to determine the concentration.
This is for cases when all system flags and arithmetic flags (NC, CL,
CE, DL, BH) are assigned.
Not tested: Indicates that analyte was skipped instead of being tested due to
SS or PS status.
8-7
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Case A
When the values for analytes A and B are high, or when the values for analytes A and C are
high, the analytes are flagged.
When no concentration is detected for analytes B and C, the analytes are not verified and the
“Unverifiable” flag is applied. In this case, analyte B takes precedence over analyte C and thus
analyte C is not referenced when concentration is detected in analyte B.
If the “Unverifiable” flag is not required it can be disabled by not entering a setting for that
name.
8-8
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Case B
When the values for analytes A, B and C are high, analyte A is flagged.
When no concentration is detected for analytes B or C, analyte A is not verified and the
“Unverifiable” flag is applied.
If the “Unverifiable” flag is not required it can be disabled by not entering a setting for that
name.
8-9
8. Other Aspects of Operation
8-10
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Real-time Upload
Specifies the types of specimens for which reports are issued to the host computer when
assay is complete.
Upload Option
Send Instrument Flag With C Record
This specifies whether (or not) to send instrument flags.
8-11
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Result Flag 1
This determines the way in which data is reported instead of concentration when no
concentration is obtained.
Point Close the system program and restart the system in order to validate the new
parameter settings.
When sending the lot number of TEST CUP to the host, since the data structure
Point
and the length of strings to be sent change, the host should be checked to verify
if it properly works with the change.
8-12
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Connection Setting
Setting of the IP Address of the host computer and the Port Number between the AIA-1800
and the host computer.
Query
First the AIA-1800 system reads a specimen ID and issues a query to the controller PC.
Then the PC checks the assay requests already generated and stored in it and returns the
relevant information to the AIA-1800. If no matched information was found, the controller
PC issues a query to the host computer when the “Yes” button has been selected.
Real-time Upload
Specifies the types of specimens for which reports is issued to the host computer when
their assays were completed.
Result Flag 1
This determines what data is reported instead of concentration if no concentration is
obtained.
Point
Close the system program and restart the system in order to enable the new
parameter settings.
8-13
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Real-time Report
With the Page Report setting, assay results are printed in the order they are received, a
page at a time as soon as each page is filled. In cases where assay results do not fill an
entire page, they are printed at the end of the assay operation.
With the Specimen Report session, assay results are printed in units of specimens as soon
as all operations for individual specimen IDs have been completed. This enables reports to
be issued for individual patients. Note that any previous results for the same specimen ID
will be included in the report in cases where the system has not been shut down since that
operation.
Paper Size
A4 is the standard page size for report printouts.
8-14
8. Other Aspects of Operation
8-15
8. Other Aspects of Operation
- Selecting “Manual” enables the operator to view the calibration results in the
Calibration screen and decide whether to accept the calibration curves.
8-16
8. Other Aspects of Operation
8-17
8. Other Aspects of Operation
(1) Go to the Barcode Reader Setup section in the Specifications screen and click the Options
button.
Start Digit
Indicates the first digit position used for specimen IDs in barcodes on specimen
containers.
Length
Indicates the valid digit length used for specimen IDs in barcodes on specimen containers.
Example: When the Start Digit is 3 and effective length 10, the specimen ID for barcode
“123456789ABCDE“ will be” 34567890AB”.
For a detailed description of barcode parameters, refer to Chapter 11: Appendix 2: Barcode
Settings.
8-18
8. Other Aspects of Operation
For detailed information on the use of this feature, contact Tosoh service center
or local representative.
8-19
8. Other Aspects of Operation
The number of “Patient Sample” does not mean the number of patients assayed but the number of all
assayed samples including patient samples, controls, calibrators and calibration check materials.
Statistical data can be cleared by going to the Database menu and selecting System Close, followed
by Clear Statistics. Note that you cannot select specific information to clear, but must clear all
information at once.
8-20
8. Other Aspects of Operation
(1) Enter the necessary information by clicking the corresponding cells shown in the menu
screen.
User names can be entered using up to 32 alphanumeric characters. Passwords are
entered using up to 32 alphanumeric characters.
Administrators register as “Super User” and assay operators as “Operator.”
Register the required number of users (administrators and operators) for the AIA-1800
system. The factory default administrator username is “root” with no password.
Point
Certain test file parameters are only accessible to administrator level users.
8-21
8. Other Aspects of Operation
Menu
Online: Enables the AIA-1800 to process specimens from the beltline unit
Offline: Disables AIA-1800 processing of specimens from the beltline unit
Restart: Restarts sending specimens from the beltline unit
Error Reset: Clears any errors that occurred during operation with the beltline unit
Signal Control: Displays the following dialog box used for defining the signal configuration of the
beltline unit
The Signal Control screen is used for maintenance of the beltline unit. It should
not be used during normal operation. For detailed description, refer to the
“Beltline System Manual”.
8-22
9. Maintenance
9: Maintenance
Implementing a program of regular maintenance will ensure maximum safety and optimal performance
for AIA-1800 system operation. Orientation on the correct maintenance procedures is provided during
the installation process. Make sure to allow only qualified, properly trained personnel to perform
maintenance work.
Do not replace the substrate with distilled water. If left too long, this may cause
contamination of the substrate line and raise the substrate background.
(1) Replace the substrate bottle with the 70% ethanol substrate replacement solution.
(2) Go to the Toolbar, click Substrate and select Replace Substrate from the menu. This starts
the substrate replacement sequence.
(3) Repeat the foregoing procedures three times.
(4) Prepare nitric acid of concentration 0.14 mol/L. (Concentrated nitric acid mixed with
distilled water at 1:100 creates an equivalent concentration.)
(5) Replace the 70% ethanol solution bottle with the one containing the nitric acid solution.
(6) Go to the Toolbar, click Substrate and select Replace Substrate from the menu. This starts
the substrate replacement sequence.
(7) Repeat the foregoing procedures three times.
(8) Reinstall the 70% ethanol solution bottle.
(9) Go to the Active Bar, click Substrate and select Replace Substrate from the menu. This
starts the substrate replacement sequence.
(10) Repeat the foregoing procedures three times.
(11) Replace the 70% ethanol solution bottle with the substrate bottle. Go to Tree view, and
perform the daily inspection once more.
9-1
9. Maintenance
(3) Remove the B/F unit by pulling on the knob shown below. (The B/F unit can be removed while
the lamp on the left is on (green).)
(4) Close the AIA-1800 system program. (A dialogue box prompting you to replace substrate will
appear. Simply ignore this (Push No) if planning to continue assay operations.)
(5) Turn off the main power.
9-2
9. Maintenance
- Probe tips are constantly in contact with specimens which may contain infectious
substances, so always wear gloves when replacing probes.
- Be sure to turn the system power off before performing maintenance tasks. Personal
injury may result from getting caught in moving mechanical parts of the system.
Securing Screws
Stainless-steel pipe
Probe Tip
(2) Clean the removed probe tips for approximately 5 minutes in an ultrasonic neutral wash
solution bath then wash with deionised water. If still not clean, replace with new probe tips.
(Part No.: 020107)
9-3
9. Maintenance
(4) Reinstall by firmly inserting the probe tips with the stainless steel pipe passing through the
center. The stainless steel pipe at the center should protrude slightly past the tip when
correctly installed.
(5) Reinstall wash probes to their position and tighten the securing screws.
Improper installation of the probe tips may cause inaccurate assay results.
9-4
9. Maintenance
(2) Take out the 5 L tank of wash solution or diluent and remove the lid from the side where the
tube is inserted.
(3) As shown in the figure below, remove the wash solution or diluent filter attached to the end of
the suction nozzle and replace with a new one. (Part no.: 018585)
(4) Screw the lid back onto the tank and return it to the main unit.
9-5
9. Maintenance
(1) Confirm that the AIA-1800 has stopped, then go to the Toolbar, click Wash and select B/F
Unit Unlock from the menu.
(3) Remove the B/F unit by pulling on the knob shown below. (The B/F unit can be pulled out
while the lamp on the left is on (green).)
Wash Probes
(4) Close the AIA-1800 system program. (A dialogue box prompting you to replace the substrate
will appear. Simply ignore this (Push No) when planning to continue assay operations.)
(5) Turn off the main power.
- Because probe tips are constantly in contact with specimens, which may contain
infectious substances, always wear gloves when replacing probes.
- Be sure to turn the system power off before performing maintenance tasks. Personal
injury may result from getting caught in moving mechanical parts of the system.
9-6
9. Maintenance
(6) Loosen the securing screws on wash probes and remove by lifting upward.
Securing Screws
Probe Tip
(10) Return wash probes to their position and tighten the securing screws.
Improper installation of the probe tip may cause inaccurate assay results.
(11) After the wash probes have been reinstalled, reinstall B/F unit by pushing it right to the back.
(Unit locks into place when pushed right to the back.)
(12) Close the Reagent/Tips cover.
9-7
9. Maintenance
9-8
9. Maintenance
9.8. Controller PC
9.8.1. Maintaining Optimum Performance
Operating the AIA-1800 for extended periods results in a large build-up of information in the
database that can slow down processing speeds and destabilize system operation. If this occurs,
follow the procedures listed below.
(1) Shut down system. (Save current database and change to new database).
For detailed description, refer to “Chapter 6: 6.12 Shutting Down Operation.”
(2) Close Windows XP.
(3) Run Defrag and ScanDisk (refer to the Help and support features provided for Windows XP).
System Shutdown
Running Defrag and
Item Specimen QC database Program close
ScanDisk
Database
Recommended When shutting QC segments When shutting Once every 3 months (as
times down system down system a rule)
(daily basis) (daily basis)
Point Refer to the CD burning software help files for information on operating the CD-RW drive.
- Wait until system operation has terminated before backing up the Nexus system
files.
- Attempting to perform the backup operation while the system is still operating may
damage the files.
9-9
9. Maintenance
9-10
10. Appendix 1 Test Files
The assay conditions (sampling volume, calibration curves figure, and dilution factor) for individual analytes
are entered in test files. This chapter provides detailed description of the various items that go into the test
files.
Symbols R, W or H under an item show edit permission to a systems engineer, a super user, and an operator,
respectively in that order. If no symbol is shown, all users can edit the item.
R means Readable only, W means Writable and H means Hidden (not displayed).
Item Meaning
Unit Unit of measurement for concentrations.
Used when displaying, printing and sending to the host computer assay
results.
Decimal places Specify the degree of concentration in decimal terms.
Used when displaying, printing and sending to the host computer assay
results expressed in decimals.
Reference Range low (L) Specifies lower limit of reference range.
Under range assay results are assigned the L flag. Set L value after
reference range is established.
Reference Range high (H) Specifies upper limit of reference range.
Over range assay results are assigned the H flag. Set H value after
reference range is established.
Reschedule low Specifies lower limit for rescheduling range.
Under range assay results are assigned the RL flag. Defaults to Assay
range low value when this limit is not used.
Reschedule high Specifies upper limit for rescheduling range.
Over range assay results are assigned the RH flag. Defaults to Assay
range high value when this limit is not used.
Assay range low Specifies lower limit for assay range.
Under range assay results are assigned the <L flag.
Assay range high Specifies upper limit (linearity) for assay range.
Over range assay results are assigned the >H flag.
Reference
<L RL L Range H RH >H
Reference Range
Reschedule Range
Assay Range
Item Meaning
Specimen diluent code Specifies code used for specimen diluting solution (SDS).
Specimen diluent name Specifies name used for specimen diluting solution (SDS).
Dilution factor for Sp.1 Specifies default dilution factor for specimen material 1 (Sp.1).
Dilution factor for Sp.2 Specifies default dilution factor for specimen material 2 (Sp.2).
Dilution factor for Control Specifies default dilution factor for control sample.
Default multiplier for DO Default multiplier for generating reschedule request when assay result
flagged with Detector-over-range (DO) flag. Current dilution factor will be
multiplied by this value.
Default multiplier for >H Default multiplier for generating reschedule request when assay result
flagged with >H flag. Current dilution factor will be multiplied by this
value.
Factor A, B Compensation factors (concentrations).
Cal. formula: Y = AX + B, where A is the slope and B is the y-intercept
(X: conc. before factored, Y: conc. after factored)
10-1
10. Appendix 1 Test Files
Item Meaning
Calibration code Specifies code defining calibration curve model constants (fixed value).
RW R R
Calibrator replicates (n) Specifies number of times same-concentration calibrator measurements
are replicated when generating curves.
Calibrator lot 16-digit number used to specify calibrator lot.
RW RW H
Calibrator name (1-12) Specifies names of calibrators of various concentrations. Calibrator
RW RW H names are automatically generated when their lot numbers are entered.
Names cannot be entered directly.
Calibrator conc. 1-12 Specifies concentrations for calibrators.
RW RW H Between 2 and 6 different concentrations may be used, depending on
analyte type.
Dilution factor for Calibrator Specifies calibrator dilution factor.
(Cal)
RW RW H
Calibration Period Specifies valid period of calibration curve.
RW R H
Incubation Time (10/40)
RW R H
Assay Protocol (1-4)
RW R H
Specimen Volume
RW R H
Diluent Volume
RW R H
Conjugate Volume
RW R H
Diluted Conjugate Volume
RW R H
Pretreatment
RW R H Represent parameters specific to individual measurements.
Pretreatment Specimen Volume Do not modify.
RW R H
Pretreatment Reagent Code
RW RW H
Pretreatment Reagent Name
RW RW H
Pretreatment Reagent 1
Volume
RW R H
Pretreatment Reagent 2
Volume
RW R H
System Factor
RW R H
Calibration Check Code Used to check calibration lot entered manually.
RW R H
Virtual Concentration Parameters in log-logit cubic format specifying virtual concentration.
RW R H
Graph Origin Parameters in log-logit cubic format specifying graph origin.
RW R H
Calculation with Dilution Factor This factor is for result review.
RW RW R
10-2
11. Appendix 2: Barcode Settings
The definitions for the parameter settings in the Barcode Settings screen are provided below.
11.1. CODE 39
(1) Start Stop Character Output
Specifies whether to read the asterisk“*”, used as a start stop character, as part of the ID.
ON read as part of ID
OFF do not read
(2) Check Digit Check
Specifies whether to perform check digit verification.
ON check digit verification enabled
OFF check digit verification disabled
(3) Check Digit Output
Specifies whether to use check digit as part of the ID.
ON use
OFF do not use
11-1
11. Appendix 2: Barcode Settings
11.3. ITF
Note that ITF cannot be disabled as ITF is used in the calibrators and controls supplied by
Tosoh.
11-2
12. Appendix 3: Flags
The various assay results are flagged to indicate status. Descriptions of the flags are provided in the
following sections.
The concentration values displayed together with system flags are for use as
reference values. It is important that users not ignore the flags with assay
results of the AIA-1800.
12.1.2. L
Indicates that assay result is below the lower limit value of reference range (Reference range
(L) value). This flag will not be attached to control results.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS-232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS-232C output (flag) :L
12.1.3. H
Indicates that assay result is above the upper limit value of reference range (Reference range
(H) value). This flag will not be attached to control results.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS-232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS-232C output (flag) :H
12.1.4. RL
Indicates that assay result is below the lower limit of reschedule range (Reschedule (L) value
in test file). This flag will not be attached to control results.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS-232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS-232C output (flag) :L
The RL check is only performed for the first assay result with concentration
value for a single analyte of a single specimen.
12.1.5. RH
Indicates that assay result is above the upper limit of reschedule range (Reschedule (H) value
in test file). This flag will not be attached to control results.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculation value
RS232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculation value
RS232C output (flag) :H
The RH check is only performed for the first assay result with concentration
value for a single analyte of a single specimen.
12-1
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.2.2. >H
Calculation failed due to assay result being over assay range (represented by assay range
upper limit value in test file).
->Dilute specimen and reschedule assay operation.
12.4.2. NS
Indicates that sampling failed due to no sample (container) present.
->Check sample (container) and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-2
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.4.3. SC
Indicates that vacuum pressure exceeded abnormal level after the suction of a specimen. The
measurement will be skipped due to clogging.
->Check for lumps or clots. If found, use centrifuge to remove and reschedule assay
operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.4.4. UC
Indicates that abnormal vacuum pressure pattern was observed during the suction of a
specimen. The cause could be semi-coagulated specimen or air suction or high viscosity of a
sample.
->Check if there is no lump, clots or bubbles in the specimen. If found, make a centrifugation to
remove them and reschedule assay operation. If the same flag was attached to the retested
result again, the possible cause is high viscosity of the sample.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculated value
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-3
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.5.2. CL
Indicates concentration calculation failed due to calibration curve not registered (accepted).
->Register (have accepted) calibration curve and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.5.3. CV
Indicates validity of calibration curve has expired. The expired calibration curve was used to
calculate concentration.
->Calibrate reference solution, register calibration curve and reschedule assay operation.
12.5.4. CE
Indicates calculation error due to use of approximate expression for calibration curve.
->Check calibration curve and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-4
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.6.2. PS
Indicates inability to perform assay operation due to test cup shortage.
->Replenish test cups and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.6.3. RS
Indicates inability to conduct assay operation due to conjugate shortage.
->Replenish conjugate and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.6.4. ES
Indicates inability to conduct assay operation due to pretreatment solution shortage.
->Replenish pretreatment solution and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.6.5. TS
Indicates inability to conduct assay operation due to sample tip shortage.
->Replenish sample tips and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-5
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.6.6. LS
Indicates inability to conduct assay operation due to SDS shortage.
->Replenish SDS and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.6.7. WS
Indicates inability to conduct assay operation due to wash solution shortage.
->Replenish wash solution and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs calculation value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs obtained value blank when NC, CL, CE, >H
or <L is assigned
RS232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculation value or Follow the “Flag 1”
setting of the Utility-Host screen when NC, CL or CE is
assigned. Follow the “Flag 2” setting of the Utility-Host
screen when >H, or <L is assigned.
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.6.8. BS
12.6.9. DS
Indicates inability to conduct assay operation due to diluent shortage.
->Replenish diluent and reschedule assay operation.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculation value or blank when NC, CL, CE,
>H or <L is assigned
RS232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculation value
Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
when NC, CL or, CE is assigned. Follow the “Flag 2”
setting of the Utility-Host screen when >H, or <L is
assigned.
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-6
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.7.2. WU
Indicates B/F separation failure.
->Perform maintenance of wash probes by referring to “Chapter 9: Maintenance.”
If this fails to resolve the problem, contact Tosoh service center or local representative.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : outputs calculation value blank when NC, CL, CE,
>H or <L is assigned
RS232C output (concentration value) : outputs calculation value
Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
when NC, CL or, CE is assigned. Follow the “Flag 2”
setting of the Utility-Host screen when >H or, <L is
assigned.
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.7.3. DL
Indicates malfunction in detector unit or substrate dispense failure.
->Contact Tosoh service center or local representative.
Print, display (rate value) : outputs obtained value
Print, display (concentration value) : blank.
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.7.4. SE
Indicates that either operator terminated (aborted) operation or system error occurred.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-7
12. Appendix 3: Flags
12.7.5. MF
Indicates inability to perform assay operation due to mechanical failure.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.7.6. NB
Indicates inability to perform assay operation due to no breaking (NB) of test cup seal.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.7.7. RF
Indicates inability to perform assay operation due to error when dispensing conjugate.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12.7.8. SP
Indicates in ability to perform assay operation due to one of the following causes.
- Either sorter or Reagent/Tips cover was open at the operation.
- Reagent/Tips cover was open at conjugate dispense operation.
- Mismatch error detected when comparing specimen ID received from host and ID of
specimen arriving at beltline when operating in beltline query mode.
- Other causes.
Print, display (rate value) : blank
Print, display (concentration value) : blank
RS232C output (concentration value) : Follow the “Flag 1” setting of the Utility-Host screen
RS232C output (flag) :A
12-8
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-1
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-2
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-3
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-4
13. Appendix 4: Error message
[2012] Detector table lower heater temperature control error! Operation stopped
Cause: Detector table lower heater temperature too low at start of measurement.
Solution: Contact local service center. If temperature is still low after waiting 30 minutes, inspect Detector
table lower heater and temperature sensor (T140).
[2013] Detector table upper heater temperature control error! Operation stopped
Cause: Detector table upper heater temperature too low at start of measurement.
Solution: Contact local service center. If temperature is still low after waiting 30 minutes, inspect Detector
table upper heater and temperature sensor (T141).
13-5
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-6
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-7
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-8
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-9
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-10
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-11
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-12
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-13
13. Appendix 4: Error message
[2322] Rack not fed out from sample loader step feed position
Cause: Rack end position (X1) sensor (S0708) detected rack present, even after rack out (Y2) belt was
operated.
Solution: Check sample rack path for obstacles. If problem recurs, Contact local service center. Inspect
rack end position (X1) sensor (S0708) and step feed mechanism.
13-14
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-15
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-16
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-17
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-18
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-19
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-20
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-21
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-22
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-23
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-24
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-25
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-26
13. Appendix 4: Error message
[5001] PC error
Cause: Error warning received from PC.
Solution: Contact local service center. Inspect PC unit.
13-27
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-28
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-29
13. Appendix 4: Error message
13-30
14. Appendix 5:Printing Format
Clicking the Print button on any of the operation screens displays a preview of the print results for
that screen. Users can print from the Preview screen by clicking the Print button on the toolbar. The
Preview screen can also be used to enlarge or reduce images and change the page order.
Displaying multiple Preview screens is useful for comparing different combinations of print settings.
14.2. Worklist
14-1
14. Appendix 5:Printing Format
14-2
14. Appendix 5:Printing Format
14-3
14. Appendix 5:Printing Format
14-4
14. Appendix 5:Printing Format
14-5
14. Appendix 5:Printing Format
14.9. Checklists
14-6
Warranty
The AIA-1800 has passed the stringent product testing standards of Tosoh. In the event of malfunction, the
system will be repaired in accordance with the provisions of this Warranty. Please contact the nearest Tosoh
service center or local representative.
Warranty Provisions
Warranty Period: One year from the date of system installation
Warranty Coverage: The AIA-1800 system will be repaired at no cost in accordance with the provisions of
this Warranty in cases where the malfunction is due to a manufacturing defect or
premature component failure.
Warranty Limitations: System malfunctions that occur under the following conditions are chargeable
repairs that shall be performed in accordance with standard servicing fees, whether
before or after the warranty period expires.
* This warranty does not cover supplies listed consumables, list in this manual tubing
components and connectors.
* Repairs made and parts replaced during the warranty period are warranted until the
AIA-1800 system warranty is expired.
* Replacement parts shall be supplied for a period of seven years from the date the AIA-1800
system is discontinued. Tosoh will provide notification of the dates when replacement parts
are scheduled for discontinuation.
* Customers will be charged standard servicing fees for repairs conducted after the warranty
period.
* This Warranty is valid only in Japan. Customers should check with the local Tosoh sales
representative for details of warranty provisions that apply to their area.
TOSOH CORPORATION
BIOSCIENCE DIVISION
IVD
TOSOH CORPORATION
BIOSCIENCE DIVISION
Shiba-Koen First Bldg.
3-8-2, Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8623, Japan
Phone: +81-3-5427-5181
Fax: +81-3-5427-5220
This manual may not be reprinted or copied in whole, or in part without written consent of TOSOH
CORPORATION. The contents of the manual is subject to change without notice.