Service Manual: April 2013

SERVICE MANUAL
Version 130401
April 2013
P/N SM130401
InCCA Service Manual – MS130401

1 UNPACKING ....................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS .................................................................................................................. 1
2 INSTRUMENT INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS ............................................................................ 5
2.1 ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENT ................................................................................................................... 5

2.2 DIMENSIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 5
2.3 ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS.......................................................................................................... 5
2.4 MOVING THE INSTRUMENT................................................................................................................... 5
2.5 PC MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS............................................................................................................... 5
2.6 INSTRUMENT PLACEMENT AND PREPARATION .......................................................................................... 6
2.7 WIRES AND TUBING CONNECTION ......................................................................................................... 7
3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................ 10
3.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................................................... 10

3.2 SAMPLE/REAGENT TRAY .................................................................................................................... 11
3.3 CUVETTES/REACTION TRAY ................................................................................................................ 11
3.4 DISPENSING ARM AND HYDRAULIC SYSTEM ........................................................................................... 11
3.5 CUVETTE WASHER............................................................................................................................. 11
3.6 PHOTOMETER .................................................................................................................................. 12
3.7 SOFTWARE ...................................................................................................................................... 12
3.8 POWER REQUIREMENT ...................................................................................................................... 12
3.9 DESCRIPTION OF ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS.................................................................................................. 12
3.10 TYPES OF SAMPLES ......................................................................................................................... 13
3.11 TYPES OF REACTIONS ...................................................................................................................... 13
3.12 TYPES OF METHODS........................................................................................................................ 13
4 GENERAL FUNCTIONS ...................................................................................................................... 14
4.1 MAIN PARTS OR MODULES ................................................................................................................. 14

4.1.1 SAMPLE/REAGENT TRAY.................................................................................................................. 14
4.1.2 DISPENSING ARM AND PROBE .......................................................................................................... 15
4.1.3 CUVETTES/REACTION TRAY .............................................................................................................. 16
4.1.4 CUVETTES WASHER ........................................................................................................................ 17
4.1.5 HYDRAULIC SYSTEM........................................................................................................................ 18
4.1.6 OPTICAL SYSTEM ........................................................................................................................... 18
4.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE OPERATING CYCLE................................................................................................ 19

4.2.1 REACTION PREPARATION CYCLE ........................................................................................................ 19
4.2.2 INCUBATION AND READING CYCLE ..................................................................................................... 20
4.2.3 CUVETTE WASHING CYCLE ............................................................................................................... 20
5 BASIC OPERATIONS ......................................................................................................................... 21
5.1 OPERATION FROM A TERMINAL PROGRAM............................................................................................. 21

5.2 OBTAINING FIRMWARE PARAMETERS................................................................................................... 25
6 DIRECTIONS FOR ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING ..................................................................... 26
6.1 DISASSEMBLING THE CABINET ............................................................................................................. 26

6.2 ROBOT/HEADER MODULE ................................................................................................................. 26
6.3 SAMPLE/REAGENT MODULE............................................................................................................... 27
6.4 CUVETTE MODULE ............................................................................................................................ 27
6.5 WASHER MODULE ............................................................................................................................ 28
6.6 PHOTOMETER MODULE ..................................................................................................................... 28
6.7 DILUTOR MODULE ............................................................................................................................ 28
6.8 ELECTRONIC MODULE........................................................................................................................ 29
6.9 HYDRAULIC MODULE ........................................................................................................................ 31
7 MOVEMENT ADJUSTMENT SEQUENCE FOR EACH MODULE ............................................................ 33
7.1 REACTION TRAY DISPENSING OFFSET CALIBRATION ................................................................................. 33

7.2 WASHER BASE CUVETTE CALIBRATION.................................................................................................. 34
7.3 REACTION TRAY PHOTOMETER OFFSET CALIBRATION .............................................................................. 34
7.4 ADJUST ROBOT ARM REFERENCE POSITION............................................................................................. 34
7.5 FUNNEL BASE VERTICAL MOVEMENT CALIBRATION ................................................................................. 35
7.6 HEAD ROBOT POSITION OVER DISPENSED CALIBRATION ........................................................................... 35
7.7 CUVETTES BASE VERTICAL MOVEMENT CALIBRATION .............................................................................. 36
7.8 HEADER ROBOT POSITION OVER REAGENT A CALIBRATION ....................................................................... 36
7.9 REAGENT A CONTAINER BASE VERTICAL MOVEMENT CALIBRATION ........................................................... 37
7.10 HEADER ROBOT POSITION OVER REAGENT A CALIBRATION .................................................................... 38
7.11 REAGENT A CONTAINER BASE VERTICAL MOVEMENT CALIBRATION ......................................................... 39
7.12 HEADER ROBOT POSITION OVER SAMPLE TUBE CALIBRATION ................................................................. 39
7.13 SAMPLE TUBES BASE VERTICAL MOVEMENT CALIBRATION ..................................................................... 40
7.14 CUVETTE WASHING CONTAINER VOLUME METER CALIBRATION .............................................................. 41
7.15 WASTE CONTAINER VOLUME METER CALIBRATION............................................................................... 41
7.16 PROBE WASHING SOLUTION CONTAINER VOLUME METER CALIBRATION .................................................. 41
8 PARTS REPLACEMENTS .................................................................................................................... 42
8.1 LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT ................................................................................................................. 42

8.2 INTERFERENTIAL FILTERS REPLACEMENT................................................................................................. 44
8.3 SAMPLE / REAGENT PROBE REPLACEMENT ............................................................................................. 44
8.4 DILUTER SYRINGE REPLACEMENT.......................................................................................................... 49
8.5 DILUTER SYRINGE PTFE REPLACEMENT................................................................................................. 50
8.6 PERISTALTIC PUMP TUBING REPLACEMENT ............................................................................................. 50
8.7 PISTON PUMP TEFLON SEALS REPLACEMENT........................................................................................... 51
8.8 MEMBRANE REPLACEMENT. ............................................................................................................... 52
8.9 CUVETTES REPLACEMENT ................................................................................................................... 55
8.10 FUSES REPLACEMENT ...................................................................................................................... 55
9 MAINTENANCE PROGRAM .............................................................................................................. 56
9.1 DAILY MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................................ 56

9.1.1 BEFORE STARTING DAILY OPERATION .................................................................................................. 56
9.1.2 DURING THE DAILY OPERATION ......................................................................................................... 56
9.1.3 UPON FINISHING WITH THE DAILY OPERATION ...................................................................................... 56
9.2 WEEKLY MAINTENANCE..................................................................................................................... 57
9.3 MONTHLY MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................................. 57
9.3.1 EXTERNAL WASHING OF CUVETTES ..................................................................................................... 57
9.3.2 GENERAL WASHING OF THE INSTRUMENT ............................................................................................ 58
9.3.3 BACK-UP OF FILES IN USE ................................................................................................................. 58
9.4 MAINTENANCE BASED ON ALARMS ............................................................................................. 59
ALARMS GENERATED BY COUNTERS .................................................................................................. 59
9.4.1 ENABLING OF COUNTERS........................................................................................................... 61

9.5 LEVEL1 MAINTENANCE................................................................................................................. 62
9.5.1 DISINFECTING THE REAGENT TRAY ...................................................................................................... 62
9.5.2 DISINFECTING THE TUBING ............................................................................................................... 62
9.5.4 LUBRICATING THE AXELS .................................................................................................................. 63
9.5.5 FILTER CLEANING ........................................................................................................................... 64
9.5.6 DILUTER SYRINGE PTFE REPLACEMENT .............................................................................................. 66
9.5.7 PERISTALTIC PUMP TUBING REPLACEMENT ........................................................................................... 66
9.5.8 PISTON PUMP TEFLON SEALS REPLACEMENT......................................................................................... 66
9.5.9 MEMBRANE REPLACEMENT.............................................................................................................. 66
9.6 LEVEL2 MAINTENANCE................................................................................................................. 67
9.6.1 DISINFECTING THE REAGENT TRAY ...................................................................................................... 67
9.6.2 DISINFECTING THE TUBING ............................................................................................................... 67
9.6.4 LUBRICATING THE AXELS .................................................................................................................. 67
9.6.5 FILTER CLEANING ........................................................................................................................... 68
9.6.6 DILUTER SYRINGE REPLACEMENT....................................................................................................... 68

9.6.10 SPECIAL WASH ............................................................................................................................ 68
9.7 MAINTENANCE ACCORDING TO NEED ................................................................................................... 69
9.7.1 DATABASE INITIALIZATION (EVERY 10,000 DETERMINATIONS) ................................................................. 69
9.7.2 DILUTER SYRINGE REPLACEMENT....................................................................................................... 70
9.7.3 DILUTER SYRINGE PTFE REPLACEMENT .............................................................................................. 70
9.7.5 LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT .............................................................................................................. 70
9.7.6 CUVETTES REPLACEMENT ................................................................................................................ 70
9.7.7 FUSES REPLACEMENT...................................................................................................................... 70
9.7.10 SPECIAL WASH ............................................................................................................................ 70
10 TROUBLESHOOTING ...................................................................................................................... 72
10.1 MALFUNCTION PROBLEMS DISPLAYED ON THE SCREEN ........................................................................... 72

HARDWARE MESSAGES ............................................................................................................................ 73
10.2 LOG FILE ..................................................................................................................................... 101
10.2.1 DETECTOR STATUS AND LEVEL SENSOR TABLE ................................................................................... 106
10.3 FAST TEST ................................................................................................................................... 108
10.4 CHEMICAL PROBLEMS ................................................................................................................... 110
10.4.1 HIGH RESULTS ........................................................................................................................... 110
10.4.2 LOW RESULTS ........................................................................................................................... 111
10.4.3 ERRATIC RESULTS....................................................................................................................... 112
10.4.4 ONLY ONE AFFECTED SAMPLE FOR ALL OF THE METHODS..................................................................... 113
10.4.5 ONLY ONE AFFECTED METHOD FOR ALL OF THE SAMPLES..................................................................... 114
10.5 INSTRUMENTAL PROBLEMS ............................................................................................................ 115
10.5.1 CONNECTIONS AND SUPPLIES........................................................................................................ 115
10.5.2 HYDRAULIC SYSTEM .................................................................................................................... 116
10.5.3 DILUTER .................................................................................................................................. 116
10.5.4 WASHER .................................................................................................................................. 116
10.5.5 SAMPLE/REAGENT PROBE ............................................................................................................ 117
10.5.6 REACTION CUVETTES PLATE ......................................................................................................... 118
10.5.7 SAMPLE/REAGENT TRAY ............................................................................................................. 118
10.5.8 OPTICAL SYSTEM........................................................................................................................ 118
10.5.9 SOFTWARE ............................................................................................................................... 119
11 COMUNICATION PROTOCOL FOR TECHNICAL SERVICE USE ......................................................... 120
11.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................ 120

11.2 MESSAGE STRUCTURE ................................................................................................................... 120
11.3 COMMAND DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................... 120

11.3.1 SAMPLE PROBE ......................................................................................................................... 120
11.3.2 REACTION TRAY......................................................................................................................... 121
11.3.3 SAMPLE-REAGENT TRAY .............................................................................................................. 121
11.3.4 PUMP ..................................................................................................................................... 121
11.3.5 HEATER ................................................................................................................................... 121
11.3.6 PREHEATER .............................................................................................................................. 122
11.3.7 PHOTOMETER ........................................................................................................................... 122
11.3.8 WASHER .................................................................................................................................. 122
11.3.9 DILUTER .................................................................................................................................. 122
11.3.10 MISCELLANEOUS ..................................................................................................................... 123
11.4 SYNCHRONOUS ANSWER DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................. 124
11.5 ASYNCHRONOUS ANSWER DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................... 124
11.6 EEPROM VERSION 1.06 ADDRESS .................................................................................................. 127
11.6.1 MAIN CONTROLLER .................................................................................................................... 128
11.6.2 SAMPLE PROBE VERTICAL MOVEMENT ........................................................................................... 128
11.6.3 SAMPLE PROBE HORIZONTAL MOVEMENT ...................................................................................... 128
11.6.4 REACTION TRAY......................................................................................................................... 128
11.6.5 SAMPLE-REAGENT TRAY .............................................................................................................. 128
11.6.6 FILTER WHEEL........................................................................................................................... 129
11.6.7 DILUTOR .................................................................................................................................. 129
11.6.8 PUMP ..................................................................................................................................... 129
11.6.9 HEATER ................................................................................................................................... 130
11.6.10 PREHEATER ............................................................................................................................ 130
11.6.11 WASHER ................................................................................................................................ 130
11.6.12 CONTAINERS........................................................................................................................... 131
11.6.13 SAMPLE BARCODE READER ........................................................................................................ 131
11.6.14 FILTERS.................................................................................................................................. 131
11.6.15 CUVETTE ABSORBANCES ............................................................................................................ 131
12 VALIDATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 133
12.1 STRAY LIGHT ............................................................................................................................... 133

12.2 PHOTOMETER PRECISION ............................................................................................................... 134
12.3 PHOTOMETRIC ACCURACY.............................................................................................................. 135
12.4 PHOTOMETRIC LINEARITY............................................................................................................... 137
12.5 DILUTER PRECISION ...................................................................................................................... 138
13 DIAGRAMS IDENTIFYING PRINTED CIRCUITS ............................................................................... 141
13.1 ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC SCHEME .............................................................................................. 142

13.2 MECHANICAL SCHEME ................................................................................................................... 181
13.3 ESQUEMA HIDRÁULICO.................................................................................................................. 189
14 SPARE PARTS ............................................................................................................................. 192

WARNING
1) The instrument must be installed by trained personnel.
2) This instrument is Class 1, Type b, IPX0.
3) The instrument must be used by trained personnel
4) Operation room requirements: Room temperature 20-25ºC; Humidity: 40- 85% (no
condensation).
5) The instrument must be connected to a supply line according to current national

regulations.
6) This instrument must not be used for purposes other than as indicated in this
manual. The ones it has been built for.
7) After switching on the instrument, wait 10 minutes before beginning

analysis.
8) After powering off, wait at least 20 seconds before restarting.
9) If line variations are higher than 10%, a ferroresonant voltage regulator, or a 1500
VA uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is recommended.
10) Read the entire User’s Manual before using the instrument
11) Should the instrument not work properly, call authorized local technical support or
contact:
Buenos Aires
Argentina
www.diconex.com

CAUTIONS
Electrical risks
As with any electronic equipment, electric shock is always a potential threat. Extreme caution
should be used when working around the instrument to avoid contact with any electrical wire
or components. DO NOT attempt to work in any electronic compartment while the power is
ON.
Mechanical risks
Keep lids closed when the instrument is working.

Do not touch mechanical arms or other moving parts while the instrument is working.
Do not wear rings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. as they may get caught in operating mechanical
systems.
Do not try to change or touch sample tubes, reagents, etc. when the instrument is running to
prevent breakage and/or an accident when the Reagent Sample Tray moves.
Make sure that the instrument is paused to add or reload reagents, samples, etc.
Chemical risks
Always wear protective apparel when operating the analyzer (gloves, safety glasses, etc.).
Follow specific recommendations on the bottles of each reagent or washing solution.
Read safety information of materials provided by manufacturers to be aware of possible
danger and to learn how to prevent it.
Biological risks
Rings and long nails can easily break gloves and increase exposure to biological risks.
Always treat samples and reagents as potentially infectious.
Waste and waste deposits must be treated as toxic and biologically hazardous. Handle them
and eliminate them in accordance with routine laboratory protocols.
Follow in force standards given by local sanitary authority
Eye risks
Do not look straight at barcode detector light beams.

Do not look straight at the light source of spectrophotometers since they can emit ultraviolet
rays.

WARNINGS ABOUT THE INSTRUMENT AND LABORATORY PRACTICES
The use of calibrators is recommended; refer to reagent manufacturer instructions for specific
calibration instructions.
The use of controls, as indicated by good laboratory practices, is also recommended.
Carry out the maintenance plan as indicated in this manual.
Read all warning messages.
Results may or may not be validated by the user depending on the validation criteria.
Symbols used in the manual and the instrument
Warning
High Voltage
Ground Connection
Manufacturing Date
Consult instructions for use
“in vitro” diagnostics device
Biological risk
Serial number

Warranty Terms
This warranty is for a period of 12 months as of the date the instrument leaves the factory.
This warranty is only effective as long as the pertinent warranty card together with the
installation record with all the data is duly completed and sent to our domicile by certified
mail.
Warning: This warranty only covers defective materials or manufacturing defects,

according to examination carried out in the factory and shall be limited to the replacement of
defective materials. Accessories which are not provided, such as: wash solutions, standards,
controls, reagents and consumables and supply sources are not covered by the warranty.
Furthermore, costs arising from mishandling the instrument and/or damage in the instrument
are not covered by this warranty.
This warranty shall not be valid if personnel not authorized try to repair the
Instrument.
WARRANTY SERVICE: Without charge at manufacturer. Otherwise, transport and traveling

expenses of a technician to the place where the instrument is to be repaired shall be paid.
Such costs shall not be born manufacturer.
MANUFACTURER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE INSTRUMENTS WITHOUT

AFFECTING THEIR OPERATING PARAMETERS.
NOTE: The following elements are not covered by this warranty terms: halogen lamps, fuses,
cuvettes, reagents bottles, tubes, tubings and syringe.

1 UNPACKING
Warning: Unpacking shall be carried out by trained personnel. Carefully

unpack the instrument to prevent damage.
Labels indicating this operation are found on each side of the packaging box.
Figure 1-1
1.1 Unpacking instructions

Remove the wooden box lid by unscrewing the eight screws located in the front, back and
sides.
1
Figure 1-2
NOTE: Instrument remains fastened to the bottom.
InCCA Service Manual – SM130401
2
Figure 1-3
Remove the instrument from the bottom of the box as shown in Figure below and as
explained below.
On the upper part of the instrument you will find an Allen wrench Nº 6, which will be used to
remove the screws joining the bottom to the instrument.
Figure 1-4
Unscrew the four screws located on the sides.
3
Figure 1-5
Screws are placed in this way:
Figure 1-6
Once the screws have been removed and the instrument is released, the protective
Styrofoam is removed and the instrument can be placed on the working surface.
4
2 INSTRUMENT INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS
Installation must be carried out by trained personnel.
2.1 Electrical requirement

A standard 110 Volts 60 Hz or 220 Volts 50 Hz socket for 350 VA consumption. The supply line
has a third terminal to ensure proper ground connection. If line variations are higher than 10%,
a ferroresonant voltage regulator, or a 1000 VA uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is
recommended.
2.2 Dimensions
Width: 80 cm, Height: 45 cm, Depth: 58 cm
2.3 Environmental requirements

Room temperature: 20 – 25 °C
Humidity: 40 – 85% (no condensation)
2.4 Moving the instrument

Avoid hitting the instrument as well as subjecting it to any kind of vibration while moving it.
2.5 PC minimum requirements

The PC must have the following:
-2 GHz Pentium IV
-RAM Memory, 256 MB
-Independent video card
-40 GB Hard Drive
-CD Rom
-3 ½” Floppy Disk Drive
-Serial Port RS232C
-Windows XP
-Printer (optional)
-The PC must comply with safety regulations IEC 60950 and have a certified source.
5
2.6 Instrument placement and preparation
Warning: Avoid hitting the instrument as well as subjecting it to any kind of vibration while
moving it.
The instrument must be placed on a counter in a room free from dust and corrosive vapors to
ensure its proper operation.
The instrument must not be subject to vibrations or sudden changes of temperature.
Leave at least 20 centimeters between the equipment and the wall to ensure proper ventilation.
Liquid containers must be under the counter. Avoid collapsing and/or curving of waste exit
tubings.
Avoid any centrifuge, lifts, x-ray supply lines or any other kind of noise-generating equipment in
the supply line.
Avoid direct sun light or illumination on the instrument.
The supply line has a third ground conductor for protection purposes.
Connect the instrument to the computer and its peripherals before connecting to the supply line.
If the above requirements are not met, the quality of results may be affected.
Warning: Make sure that ground connection in the line meets the standard
requirements for its operating power. Not performing ground connection poses
significant safety risk for the operator and may damage one or several parts of the
equipment or the computer.
Warning: Waste solution tubing must be placed correctly so that it drains by

gravity. They must not be curved and/or collapsed.
Warning: The instrument must be connected to a PC which meets the

requirements previously mentioned.
Warning: The instrument has been tested with a tensioactive solution which is
added to the distilled water. Not using or altering the product or its dilution will
affect the operation of the instrument.
6
2.7 Wires and Tubing Connection
Figure 2-1
Connect the interlock to 110-220 V, 50-60 Hz supply.
If line variations are higher than 10%, a ferroresonant voltage regulator or a 1500 VA
uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is recommended.
Connector RS232C is the communication wire between the PC and the instrument. Connect it to
the PC before switching on the instrument.
Connect the tubing indicated as “waste” and “washing solution (probe and cuvettes)” to the
appropriate containers as indicated in Figure below.
7
Figure 2-2
8
Figure 2-3
9
3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Figure 3-1
3.1 General specifications

Maximum throughput: 360 test/hour
Average throughput: 300 test/hour
Automatic: Sample and reagents are taken and dispensed without the user's intervention. This
also applies to the reading of reactions.
Random access: Processing order is determined by the user and may be interrupted to allow
the input of stats.
Discrete: The reaction takes place in the same cuvette in which the reading will be performed.
The use of separate cuvettes for every reaction reduces crossover contamination among samples.
The Sapphire 350 has 100 cuvettes for the reactions and readings to be carried out. Cuvettes are
continuously and automatically washed by the instrument while it is running, as required by
dispensing.
Photometric: The Sapphire 350 uses 10 optical filters. An eleventh filter may be added.
10
3.2 Sample/Reagent Tray
Number of positions for reagent bottles: 30 positions for single or double-reagent bottles,
allowing 60 reagents.
Volume of bottles: Single-reagent bottles 60ml, double-reagent bottles 28 ml and 31 ml.
Number of positions for samples: Physical capacity for 60 tubes or sample cups.
Positions become available and new samples can be added after the readings of the programmed
methods have been completed.
13 x 75mm primary tubes, test tubes and/or sample cups may be used.
Refrigeration of reagent tray is operated independently from main power switch.
Bar-code ID samples reader: Optional
3.3 Cuvettes/Reaction Tray

Number of cuvettes: 100 PMMA cuvettes placed in 10 different segments.
Reaction volume: minimum reading volume: 220 µl; maximum reaction volume (physical
capacity of the cuvette): 600 µl
Incubation: warm air thermal incubation
Working temperature: 37ºC
3.4 Dispensing Arm and Hydraulic System

Samples and reagents preheated to 37ºC.
High precision dilutor
Maximum aspiration volume: 500 µl (physical capacity of the dilutor syringe)
Internal and external washing of the probe through peristaltic pump
Volume detection
Probe impact sensors
3.5 Cuvette washer

Water consumption: 2.4 ml/cuvette
Uninterrupted washing and drying of cuvettes as required by dispensing or maintenance process
11
3.6 Photometer
Interferential filters: 340, 380, 405, 450, 505, 546, 578, 600, 650 and 700 nm
(optional 750 nm)
Krypton-halogen lamp: 12 volts 20 watts
Optical path: 6 mm
Photometric range: -0.100 to 3.600 A.
Type of measurement: monochromatic and bichromatic
3.7 Software
Easy access menu, with buttons and icons.

Continuous loading of patients, calibrators, controls and reagents during work sequence.
Stat samples
Unlimited number of methods in memory
Statistics for controls, calibrators and patients
Levy-Jennings plots
Linear and non linear multipoint calibration
Interpolation and adjustment of curves
Calibration curve graph
Extra washing option to avoid reagents interference and self-interference
Automatic sample re-dilution
Verification of reagent condition
Data import and export to interface with administration program
Reagent consumption statistics
Print outs of technical reports and patient reports
QC graphics
3.8 Power requirement

100- 240 VAC and 50- 60 Hz.400 VA
3.9 Description of electronic circuits

The Sapphire 350 is a completely micro-controlled instrument. The fundamental concept
regarding its operating way is that it carries out commands it receives through serial port RS232.
These commands are simple operations sent by the user’s program on a PC, and the instrument
decides when they are to be carried out.
In order to carry out all the commands received from the PC, the Sapphire 350 has twelve
microcontrollers. The main microcontroller receives commands through the serial port and it
sends the operations that correspond to the other eleven microcontrollers. Within the other
12
microcontrollers, there are seven whose function is to operate the seven engines in the
instrument, two which control temperature and two which communicate with internal devices of
the instrument.
The Sapphire 350 has three power supplies: a 24 Volt power supply that provide power to the
digital and power circuits; a ±15 Volt power supply for supplying power to the lamp and the
analogical circuits; and another 15-Volt power supply for the refrigerated tray.
3.10 Types of Samples

The samples to be analyzed may be:
Plasma
Serum
Whole blood
Urine
Spinal Fluid
Puncture Fluid
Differents biological fluids
Chemical solutions
3.11 Types of Reactions

End point reagent blank
End point sample blank
Kinetics
Fixed time kinetics
3.12 Types of Methods

Colorimetric
Kinetics
Turbidimetric
13
4 GENERAL FUNCTIONS
4.1 Main parts or modules
Sapphire 350 analyzer can be divided into the following main parts:
Sample/ Reagent Tray

Dispensing Arm and Probe
Cuvette/Reaction Tray
Cuvette Washer
Hydraulic System
Optical System
4.1.1 Sample/Reagent Tray
Figure 4-1
14
This tray can hold 60 refrigerated reagents, in 30 tray positions. Each reagent bottle can be single
or double-mouthed. Only one tray position is occupied in methods with two reagents.
The normal operating temperature of the reagent tray is 15ºC below room temperature, i.e. if
room temperature is 25ºC, then the reagent temperature is 10ºC. The minimum temperature of
the reagent tray is 8ºC; refrigeration is interrupted below that limit.
The refrigeration system has a separate start button (green).
The Sample/Reagent tray can hold up to 60 samples in one loading. The software allows the
continuous loading of samples once the requested tests have been finished.
Primary tubes can be used since the capillary of the probe only reaches 1 mm below the sample
level. This increases laboratory biosafety. Cups for pediatric samples can also be used.
4.1.2 Dispensing Arm and Probe
Figure 4-2
The dispensing arm transports the reagents and samples through the probe to a cuvette in the
reaction tray. Reagents and samples are preheated in this arm before being dispensed.
15
The probe has a conductivity detection system. When the probe is 1 mm below the surface of a
conductive liquid, it stops its movement. Due to this characteristic, it is important that
samples do not have bubbles since the level would be detected and only air would be
aspirated, producing an inaccurate result. It is also essential that clots and fibrin are not present.
4.1.3 Cuvettes/Reaction Tray
Figure 4-3
This is where the reactions are carried out and read.
It has 100 separate cuvettes, grouped in 10 strips of 10 cuvettes. The cuvettes are made of
PMMA, which allows a good transmittance in the UV range.
The tray is heated by an air bath to 37ºC. All reactions are carried out at 37ºC.
Each cuvette has a minimum reading volume of 220 µl, and a maximum reaction volume (physical
capacity of the cuvette) of 600 µl.
16
4.1.4 Cuvettes Washer
Figure 4-4
Its function is to wash cuvettes once the reactions have been measured. This washing is also
performed as required by dispensing: each time a new sample is dispensed by the probe, the
washing system operates, and cuvettes are washed automatically and sequentially.
The washer is divided into 4 double capillaries: one to aspirate, another to dispense liquid, and
two drying capillaries. They carry out the cuvette washing and drying process.
Reaction Aspirators: Stainless steel capillaries placed on the right of the cuvette washer to
aspirate the reaction liquid and send it to the waste container.
Washers: Stainless steel capillaries which dispense and aspirate washing solution
Dryers: Two stainless steel capillaries tubings that are placed on the left of the cuvettes washer
to dry the cuvettes which have already been washed.
Each cuvette is washed by 2400 µl total washing solution.
This circuit operates sequentially, acting on the cuvette to be cleaned in six stages:
- In the first stage, the reaction liquid is aspirated and wash solution is dispensed into the
cuvette.
- In the second, third and fourth stages; the wash solution dispensed in the previous stage is
aspirated and new wash solution is dispensed.
- In the fifth stage, the wash solution dispensed in the fourth stage is aspirated, leaving the
cuvette empty.
- In the sixth stage, the final drying is done, and the residual wash solution remaining from the
previous stage is completely removed.
17
4.1.5 Hydraulic System
Figure 4-5
Its main components are the dilutor, the peristaltic pump, the washing station and the tubings
that connect the wash solution container to the probe.
The dilutor aspirates the reagent and the sample volume required, and dispenses them into the
reaction cuvette.
The peristaltic pump conveys the wash solution from the wash solution container to the end of
the probe capillary. This allows the washing and purging of the tubings, the dilutor and the probe.
It is important to highlight that reagents never reach the dilutor syringe.
4.1.6 Optical System
Light source: a 12-Volt 20-Watt krypton-halogen lamp is used which has a high emission in the
UV range (320 nm-380 nm)
Collimating lenses: 3 plane-convex lenses are used.
Wavelengths: 340-380-405-450-505-546-578-600-650 and 700 nm.
Beam splitter: Divides the primary beam into two secondary beams: one goes towards the
sample channel and the other goes to the reference channel.
Sample channel: The sample channel beam passes through the cuvette to the sample
photosensor, where the signal is read.
Reference channel: The reference channel beam is read by the reference photosensor. The
reference channel compensates possible light source fluctuations.
18
Photometric Graph
Figure 4-6
1. LAMP
2. PLANE-CONVEX LENS
3. STOPPER
4. FILTER WHEEL
5. BEAM SPLITTER
6. SAMPLE CUVETTE
7. SAMPLE PHOTOSENSOR
8. REFERENCE PHOTOSENSOR
4.2 Description of the Operating Cycle

The operating cycle can be divided into three parts:
Reaction Preparation Cycle
Incubation and Reading Cycle
Cuvette Washing and Reaction Dispensing Cycle
4.2.1 Reaction Preparation Cycle
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The dispensing arm moves to the sample/reagent tray, and the probe places itself over the
reagent to be aspirated. The arm lowers until the sensor of the probe finds liquid level and it
aspirates the programmed reagent volume.
The arm moves to the wash station, and the external washing of the probe capillary is carried
out.
The arm moves to the sample/reagent tray and it places itself over the sample to be aspirated.
The arm lowers until the sensor of the probe finds liquid level and it aspirates the programmed
sample volume.
The arm moves to the cuvette/reaction tray and places itself over the cuvette where the reaction
is going to be dispensed. It dispenses the sample and the reagent together.
The dispensing arm moves to the washing station, and the internal and external washing of the
tubings and the probe is carried out by the peristaltic pump.
4.2.2 Incubation and Reading Cycle

In this cycle, incubation and photometric readings of the reaction are carried out at the
appropriate wavelengths.
The incubation and reading cycle occurs while a new reaction preparation cycle is beginning.
4.2.3 Cuvette Washing Cycle

While the cuvettes tray is stopped and the next reaction is being dispensed, the cuvettes where
reactions have already been measured are washed. As this is a continuous cycle, clean cuvettes
will always be available and there is no need to interrupt the process.
20
5 BASIC OPERATIONS
5.1 Operation from a terminal program

The autoanalyzer can be operated from a terminal program. This will allow us to perform
Firmware calibrations as well as verify Hardware adjustments.
Firmware calibrations keep all the variables on each module. These variables can be directly
read from the user’s program. To do so, we should go to the user’s screen, select Maintenance,
go to Settings, Memory and obtain Parameters from the Equipment.
Note: The variables kept in the memory are the values obtained by the manufacturer.
Do not modify. It can only be modified when the Module needs to be replaced or when
advised by the manufacturer.
Hardware adjustment consists in adjusting offset of Reference and Sample preamplifiers of the
Photometer Module.
Note: This adjustment is only indicated when preamplifiers are replaced.
From this program we can also verify module operation, the sate of detectors according to their
position, the state of the Sample/Reagent Probe level sensor and the abnormal descent of the
Sample/Reagent probe, as well as obtain the Preheater and Heater reading temperature, check
the water dispensing volume in the cuvette washing station, check the peristaltic pump and
Dilutor’s operation.
Note: Once the HyperTerminal has been activated, we advise analyzing answer messages
directly from the log.html file. Do not use the HyperTerminal screen so as to avoid confusion
or misinterpretation of the messages that have been sent or received.
Important: make sure the HyperTerminal program had been closed before opening the
autoanalyzer’s program.
How to configurate the HyperTerminal program included in Windows XP is explained in this

chapter
From the program Windows click on:

Start / programs / accessories / communications / HyperTerminal
The following screen will be displayed:
21
Figure 5-1
Type InCCA and accept.
Figure 5-2
Select COM1 and accept.
22
Figure 5-3
Complete fields according to window above and accept.
After that, click on: File / Properties
Figure 5-4
Complete the chart as shown in the next window:
23
Figure 5-5
Click on Configuration ASCII… and complete fields according to the following graph:
Figure 5-6
24
The software is already configurated to use. On future occasions, click on the Sapphire 350 .ht
icon that was generated in the previous configuration and that is kept in
Start / programs / accessories / communications / HyperTerminal / Sapphire 350 .ht
5.2 Obtaining Firmware Parameters.

In order to obtain module parameters of factory adjustments, you have to enter the Maintenance
screen, select “Settings” and, finally, “Memory”.
All fields will be displayed in blank. Press the button Get from instrument to obtain parameters
values. We will be able to check the percentage of information transference on the progress bar.
Once the transference has finished, all fields will have been filled with the factory adjustment
values.
Figure 5-7
To visualize the other parameters, you will only need to select on the module to be checked.
Note: it is highly advisable to keep a copy of the original equipment parameters
together with the autoanalyzer’s installation report.
25
6 DIRECTIONS FOR ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING
Autoanalyzer has several modules, each of modules can be easily disassembled to perform total
or partial replace.
Important: before disassembling, turn the equipment off and disconnect the interlock
from the supply line. Remove reagents and put them away into the refrigerator.
Remove samples and proceed to decontaminate the equipment and the waste
according to biosafety rules set up by the laboratory.
6.1 Disassembling the cabinet
In order to access the modules, the following covers must be removed:
a. Remove Cuvette and Sample/Reagent Tray covers.

b. Then proceed to remove the upper left and right side covers (remove Allen M3 screws
from back).
c. Turn the Robot Arm completely to the left.
d. Remove top cover (by removing the 4 Allen M3 screws. There are two on each side)
e. Remove the front cover, to access the screws (3 Allen M4 screws) from below slightly
move the equipment forward. Then remove the screws (Allen M3) from the right and left
sides.
f. Finally, remove the side lids, to access the screws (3 Allen M4 screws on each side) from
below move the equipment. Then, from the bottom part, remove the screw (Allen M4, one
on each side).
Important: Manually position the header on the funnel before turning on the equipment.
6.2 Robot/Header Module

a. Disconnect the air connector, the cable (going to the cabinet) holder and the Teflon tubing
going to the dilutor.
b. Disconnect the J3 connector of the PCB PREHEATER. Do not disconnect the vertical and
horizontal movement detector connectors.
c. Disconnect connectors J3, J4, J5 and J6 of the PCB Controller.
d. Disassemble the Robot/Head module, remove the 4 Allen M5 screws. Two of these screws
are on the upper part assembled on the base separator and the other two on the lower
part, at the same level of the general base.
e. No adjustment is required to assemble the module. Fix it to the bottom base by the four
screws, fix the fixing screws firmly. Continue with the assembly.
f. Perform a precision test (section 9, Validation Program) in order to verify correct
assembling of the arm. Purge of the hydraulic system should previously be made.
26
Note: Without totally removing the Robot / Header module from the autoanalyzer’s base the
header can be disassembled (in order to do so, it is only required to disconnect the air connector,
the flex holder and the Teflon tubing going to the dilutor, by loosening the Allen M3 and M4
screws from the cylindrical and rectangular pieces joining the header to the axis respectively).
Once it has been assembled, it is important to verify the right position of the Sample/ Reagent
probe in the dispensing position.
6.3 Sample/Reagent Module

a. Remove the Sample / Reagent Tray (remove the Delrin lid, then the 3 Allen M6 screws).
Disconnect the cable from the J1 connector in the PCB Cooler under the tray.
b. Remove the seals holding the cable (do not cut with pliers) on the Sample / Reagent
module. One is placed on the right of the engine in the module, another one is located in
the central part of the base, next to the pump module, another one on the back, between
the Sample / Reagent module and the Robot module, another one on the base behind the
robot and the other behind the robot, half-way up next to the dilutor.
c. Disconnect J1 and J2 from the PCB Controller and the PCB Brush.
d. Remove tubing (PVC 6/10) from the collecting tray of the condensing circuit of the Peltier
reagent cooling circuit.
e. Remove the 6 (M6) nuts fixing the Sample / Reagent module (it has a flat safety
washer)
f. Remove the module.
g. No adjustment is required to assemble the Sample / Reagent module.
h. Continue with the assembly.
NOTE: In order to change the detector from the Home Position and change the synchronic belt, it
is necessary to remove the whole module. To change the belt, the detector must be removed
first.
6.4 Cuvette Module

This module has the Photometer and Cuvette Washer module.
a. To remove the whole Cuvette module, the seals holding the wires must first be removed
(do not cut with pliers). There is one behind the robot on the base, another behind the
robot half way up, next to the dilutor, another on the base between the robot module and
the Sample / Reagent module, another one on the center, next to the pump module (this
one holds the cables of the Cuvette washing module.)
b. Disconnect connectors J9, J10, J11, J12, J15 (Pos.1 and 2 set of brown and white wires),
J16, J17 from the PCB Controller and connectors J2 and J8 from the PCB Regulator,
corresponding to the set of wires on the photometer’s side. Disconnect connectors J7 and
J8 from the PCB Controller, corresponding to the set of wires on the cuvette washer’s side.
c. Disconnect the filling and aspirating tubings from the Washer.
d. Remove the 4 M6 fixing nuts in the Cuvette module (they have flat safety washers)
e. Remove the module.
f. No adjustment is required for the Cuvettes module assembly
27
g. Proceed to assembly
NOTE: To change Home position sensor, it is necessary to remove the cuvette supporting disk.
This disk has only one position, which makes its assembly easier. To remove the Washer and
Photometer modules, it is not necessary to completely remove the Cuvette module.
6.5 Washer Module

a. Remove the seals holding the cables in the following locations: one is between the Sample
/ Reagent module and the pump, another one is on the base next to the robot, another
one is behind the robot and the other one is half way up, next to the dilutor.
b. Disconnect J7 and J8 connectors of the PCB Controller, corresponding to the set of wires
next to the cuvette washer.
c. Disconnect the filling and aspirating tubings on / of the Washer.
d. Remove the 2 Allen M6 screws assembled on the base of cuvettes module. Remove the
washer.
e. No adjustment is required for the Washer module assembly.
f. Once the Washer module has been assembled, perform several washing cycles.
6.6 Photometer Module

a. Remove the seals holding the cables located: one next to the step motor in the Cuvette
module, another on the base behind the robot and the other one half ways up, next to the
dilutor.
b. Disconnect J9, J10, J16, J17 connectors of the PCB Controller and J8 connector of the PCB
Regulator.
c. Remove the 2 Allen M6 screws assembled on the bottom at the level of the base of the
Cuvette module. Remove the Photometer module.
d. In order to assemble the Photometer module, alignment of the optical path in relation with
reaction cuvette should be performed. Align optical path with reaction cuvette to assemble
photometer module
e. Once assembly and alignment of the optical path has finished, run the Validation Program
f. Perform Photometer and Cuvette Calibration (for all cuvettes) from the user’s program.
Maintenance, Equipment
6.7 Dilutor Module
a. Remove dilutor back lid (remove the 6 Allen M3 screws that join it with the back)
b. Remove the seals holding the cables (do not cut with pliers), placed at the front of the
PCB Controller’s holder.
c. Disconnect J23 connector of the PCB Controller and J5 connector (terminal 1 and 3 thin
brown and black wires) of the PCB Regulator.
d. Disassemble TECAN syringe and 3 –way valve.
28
e. Remove the 2 Allen (M3) screws with star washer and nut, located on the bottom and
behind the Robot module. Remove the two Phillips screws with star washer and nut
located on the upper front of the autoanalyzer.
f. No adjustment is required for this module assembly.
g. Perform several purge cycles.
6.8 Electronic Module

It is located on the left back part of the autoanalyzer. The printed circuit plates are assembled on
a metal support. Interconnections between PCB and the electrical supply are made through
connectors.
The plates forming the electronic module are: PCB CONTROLLER and PCB REGULATOR. There are
also 24 Volts, 15 Volts and +/-15 Volts commutated electrical supplies.
PCB
CONTROLLER
PCB
REGULATOR
29
SW 24 VDC
MOTOR/DIGITAL
Source
LINE FILTER
SW 15 VDC
PELTIER source
SW +/-15VDC
source
Note: The Controller plate is assembled on the metal support by 5 Allen screws. The Regulator
plate is assembled by 4 Allen screws, two on each side.
30
6.9 Hydraulic Module
The hydraulic circuit is divided into two parts;
The first is the Cuvette Washing Station module, which is assembled on the Cuvette module. The
pumps are controlled by the Controller PCB. To disconnect the same connector should be
disconnected from J27 of the plate.
• Diaphragm Pumps (flushing and Drying).

• Piston Pumps (Filled)
valve
Manifold
ElectroValve
Filling Piston Pump Flushing Diaphragm Pump
31
Check
valve
O-Rings stoppers locker
Oil Plush Holders
Manifold
Pumps are located below the Sample / Reagent tray. Access is achieved by the front of the
autoanalyzer. They are assembled, at the level of the general base, by two Allen M5 screws.
The other module is the Dilutor, interconnected to the Peristaltic Pump on one way and to the
Preheater on the other way, by means of a 3- way valve of the TECAN dilutor module. From
the Preheater it is connected to the Sample / Reagent probe by means of the Teflon tubing to
a hydraulic connector. The Peristaltic pump is controlled by the PCB Controller. To disconnect it,
you should disconnect J13 connector.
3 – way Valve
Dilutor
Peristaltic pump with

tubing
CAVRO/DILUTOR
syringe
Preheater
TECAN dilutor module is assembled on the front of autoanalyzer.
32
7 MOVEMENT ADJUSTMENT SEQUENCE FOR EACH MODULE
The firmware calibration parameters sequence corresponding to the different modules is
described in this section. It is a referential sequence which can only be performed on the
necessary points.
In order to perform the adjustments it is important to consider the values obtained from
Firmware (see section 5.2 of the Technical Service Manual, “Obtaining Firmware Parameters”).
These values are the default made of manufacturer.
Adjustment values for each module can also be consulted from HyperTerminal, by executing
the command eepromRead. We can enter new adjustment values by means of the command
eepromWrite, (see section 11.5 of the Technical Service Manual to find the corresponding
EEPROM address for each variable.
Note: Activate the HyperTerminal program by exiting the User’s program. Initialize all modules
before checking or adjusting each module.
7.1 Reaction Tray Dispensing Offset Calibration
This calibration adjusts the Reaction Tray’s position at the moment of Dispensing by the Robot
Arm into the reaction cuvette. The reference point for this adjustment is the washer and this
adjustment is independent from the photometer’s calibration (Reaction tray photometer offset).
To verify adjustment of the Reaction Tray Dispensing we must take into account that the drying
tip of the washing station is positioned over cuvette Nº9. Therefore, the other drying tip is placed
over cuvette Nº10. This gives us the reference position for the Reaction Tray.
Initialize Reaction Tray and Washer. Verify that the last drying tip of the washing station is
perfectly aligned with cuvette Nº9. Otherwise, correct the position by executing the command
reactionMoveForward or reactionMoveBackward and enter the number of steps you want
to move it in a relative way, clockwise or counter clock wise. Once the wanted position is
obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 82 XXX where XXX is the new position
obtained. Restart the reaction tray and repeat the operation if necessary.
Then execute the command washerIn, verify that the tips in the washing station are introduced
into the cuvette strip and are perfectly aligned with the cuvettes. Execute the command
washerOut, the washer tips are removed from the cuvette.
Important: It is advisable to check the Reaction Tray’s position in relation to the Washer twice
or three times. This will allow us to check the correct position of the adjustment performed, as
well as the stability of the Reaction Tray’s movement.
Note: First cuvette is indicated by and arrow. A complete turn of the Reaction Tray is equal to
2400 steps. As the Reaction tray has a capacity for 10 strips, then the number of steps per
cuvette is 24.
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7.2 Washer Base Cuvette Calibration
Initialize Reaction Tray and Cuvette Washer. Execute the command reactionGoDispense A1
96. Remove the second cuvette strip (from cuvette Nº11 until Nº21). Then execute the command
washerIn to move down the Washer in the reaction cuvettes. Verify the existence of a space
neither bigger than 1mm nor smaller than 0.5mm between the cuvettes bottom and the washer’s
tips. Adjust this height by executing the command eepromWrite A1 315 XXX, where XXX is the
distance, in steps, that the washer will move.
To move up the washer, execute the command washerOut. Check positions once or twice times.
This will allow us to check the stability of the mechanical movement as well as the correct Washer
position in relation to the Reaction Tray.
7.3 Reaction Tray Photometer Offset Calibration
This calibration is the adjustment of the Reaction Tray in relation to the light beam on the
Photometer‘s Sample Channel. This adjustment is independent from dispensing adjustment
(Dispensing offset).
Initialize the Reaction Tray. Before performing this adjustment, check the position of the Reaction
Tray against the Washer (reference position).
Execute the command reactionGoPhoto A1 1 to position cuvette Nº1 above the photometer.
The light beam must be centered on the cuvette.
To correct the position, execute the commands reactionMoveForward or

reactionMoveBackward and enter the steps you want to move it. Once the wanted position is
obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 84 XXX, where XXX is the newly obtained
position. Restart the reaction tray and repeat the operation if necessary. Check that asynchronous
answer referred to dispensing position is 0 (reactionCurDispense A1 PC 0).
Important: once the adjustment has been done, it is advisable to check positions twice or three
times. This will allow us to check the correct position of the adjustment performed as well as the
stability of the Reaction Tray’s movement.
7.4 Adjust robot arm reference position
Funnel is the reference position of the Robot Arm’s horizontal movement. To perform horizontal
adjustment we should loosen the Allen M5 screw located on the square block on the header. For a
better visualization, execute the command probeMoveIn by entering 200 steps as an argument.
Slightly turn the header to the right or the left until the probe is positioned above the funnel
center. Firmly adjust Allen screw.
34
Verify that EEPROM 50 position be equal to zero. Execute the commands probeInit and
probeArmInit to initialize the vertical and horizontal movements of the Robot Arm.
Important: the Allen M3 screw assembled on the cylindrical piece adjusts the level of the header
(Sample / Reagent probe’s support). If it is modified, the probe’s height in relation to the channel
(area of probe displacement) on the general lid or table must be 3 mm.
7.5 Funnel Base Vertical Movement Calibration
To correct this level’s height, the number of steps needed to adjust the Robot Arm in relation to
the funnel should previously be established. This value can be accurately established by means of
the commands probeMoveInWithoutLevel and probeMoveOut. Once the desired position
has been obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 18 XXX where XXX is the newly
obtained position.
Important: 10 steps, corresponds to 1 mm.
Note: once adjustment has been made, it is advisable to check positions twice or three times.
This will allow us to check the correct position of the adjustment performed as well as the stability
of the Robot Arm’s movement.
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust the robot Arm’s positioning over the funnel.
7.6 Head Robot Position over Dispensed Calibration
Execute the command to initialize the cuvette Tray and the commands to initialize vertical and
horizontal movement of the Robot Arm.
Then execute the command probeGoDispense; the Robot arm will directly move towards the
Cuvette Tray, positioning itself over the mouth on cuvette Nº1.The probe must be perfectly
aligned over the mouth. Otherwise, positioning must be corrected on the horizontal movement of
the robot arm.
To adjust the horizontal position of the Robot arm, the commands probeArmMoveClock and
probeArmMoveCClock must be executed, moving the necessary steps. Once the desired
position has been obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 48 XXX where XXX is the
newly obtained position.
To visualize better, execute the command probeMoveIn and enter 800 steps as argument. The
probe must be centered in relation to the cuvettes mouth.
35
Note: Once the adjustment has been performed, it is advisable to check positions twice or three
stability of the Robot Arm and the Cuvette Tray’s movement.
7.7 Cuvettes Base Vertical Movement Calibration
This calibration is meant to adjust vertical movement of the Robot Arm on the reaction cuvettes
position at Dispensing step.
Initialize Reaction Tray and Robot Arm, both vertical and horizontal and execute the command
probeGoDispense.
Execute the command probeMoveIn. The Sample / Reagent probe must be positioned about 1
mm. over the reaction cuvettes mouth.
To correct position, the number of steps needed to adjust the Robot Arm in relation to the
reaction cuvettes mouth should previously be established. This value can be accurately
established by means of the commands probeMoveIn and probeMoveOut. Once the desired
position has been obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 16 XXX, where XXX is the
Note: Once adjustment has been performed, it is advisable to check positions twice or three
stability of the Robot Arm’s movement.
7.8 Header Robot Position over Reagent A Calibration
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust Robot Arm’s positioning over mouth A of Reagent Nº1.
Execute the command to initialize the Sample / Reagent Tray and the commands to initialize
vertical and horizontal movement of the Robot Arm.
Then execute the command probeGoReagentA; the Robot Arm will directly move towards the
Sample / Reagent Tray, positioning itself over mouth A of the Reagent Nº1 container in position
Nº1. The probe must be perfectly aligned over that mouth. Otherwise, positioning must be
corrected simultaneously on the horizontal movement of the robot arm and on mouth A
reagent offset of the sample / reagent tray.
To adjust horizontal position of the Robot Arm, the commands probeArmMoveClock and
36
To adjust the offset of Reagent mouth A on the Sample / Reagent tray, the commands
srMoveBackward or srMoveForward must be executed. Once the desired position has been
obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 122 XXX where XXX is the new position
obtained.
For a better visualization, execute the command probeMoveIn and enter 600 steps as
argument. The probe must be inside the reagent container, centered in relation to the container’s
mouth.
If, for any reason, the Sample / Reagent tray has been removed, its position can be slightly
modified during assembly. When adjusting the Allen M5 screws on the Sample / Reagent tray we
will have the backlash. This causes a small displacement. Because of this, it is important to check
this position before modifying Offset calibration of reagent A container every time the tray is
removed.
Note: Once adjustment has been performed, it is advisable to check positions twice or three
stability of the Robot Arm and the Sample / Reagent tray’s movement.
Important: A complete turn of the Sample / Reagent tray is equal to 2400 steps. As the Sample
/ Reagent tray has a capacity for 30 reagent containers, then the number of steps per container is
80. If the Sample / Reagent tray is disassembled, offsets in the three positions (mouth A, mouth
B and samples) must be check.
7.9 Reagent A Container Base Vertical Movement Calibration
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust the vertical robot arm movement on mouth A of the
reagent container.
Initialize the sample / reagent tray and the robot arm, both horizontal and vertical.
Execute the command probeGoReagentA. The Robot Arm will directly move towards the
sample / reagent tray, positioning itself on mouth A of reagent Nº1 container.
Then, execute the command probeIn, which will produce a movement of the probe according to
a value that has been set in EEPROM. The probe must be positioned the nearest possible to the
bottom of the reagent’s container without activating the impact detector, this allows working with
the smallest dead volume of reagent.
If modification of this value is intended, you can resort to the commands probeMoveIn and
probeMoveOut. Once the desired position has been obtained, execute the command
eepromWrite A1 22 XXX where XXX is the newly obtained position. To check this position, you
can put 1ml of liquid in the reagent container and verify that the informed volume in the
asynchronous answer is smaller than that value.
37
7.10 Header Robot Position over Reagent A Calibration
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust the robot Arm’s positioning on mouth B of Reagent
Nº1.
Execute the command to initialize the Sample / Reagent tray and the commands to initialize
vertical and horizontal movement of the Robot Arm.
Then, execute the command probeGoReagentB and srGoReagentB. The Robot Arm will
directly move towards the Sample / Reagent Tray, positioning itself on mouth B of reagent Nº1
container. The probe must be perfectly aligned over the mouth. Otherwise, positioning must be
corrected simultaneously on the horizontal movement of the robot arm and on the offset of
reagent mouth B of the Sample / reagent tray.
To adjust horizontal position of the Robot Arm, the commands probeArmMoveClock and
To adjust reagent mouth B offset on the sample / reagent tray, the commands
srMoveBackward or srMoveForward should be executed. Once the desired position has been
obtained, execute the command eepromWrite A1 124 XXX where XXX is the newly obtained
position.
argument. The probe must be positioned inside the reagent container, centered in relation to the
container’s mouth.
stability of the Robot Arm and the sample / reagent tray’s movement.
Important: the same observations apply as those detailed on point 7 in relation to checking if
the sample / reagent tray is removed.
38
7.11 Reagent A Container Base Vertical Movement Calibration
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust the vertical robot arm movement on mouth B of the
reagent container.
Initialize the sample / reagent tray and the robot arm, both horizontal and vertical.
Execute the commands probeGoReagentB and srGoReagentB. The Robot Arm will move
directly towards the sample / reagent tray and will be positioned on mouth B of the reagent Nº1
container.
Then execute the command probeIn, which will produce a movement of the probe according to
the value that was set in EEPROM. The probe must be the nearest possible to the bottom of the
reagent container without activating the impact detector, this allows working with the smallest
dead volume of reagent.
If you want to modify this value, you can resort to the commands probeMoveIn and
eepromWrite A1 24 XXX where XXX is the newly obtained position. In order to check this
position, you can put 1ml of liquid in the reagent container and verify that the informed volume in
the asynchronous answer is smaller than this value.
7.12 Header Robot Position over Sample Tube Calibration
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust the positioning of the robot arm on sample tubes.
Initialize the sample / reagent tray and vertical and horizontal movement of the robot arm.
Then, execute the command probeGoSample and srGoSample. The Robot Arm will move
directly towards the sample / reagent tray and will be positioned on the mouth of sample tube
Nº1. The probe should be perfectly aligned over the mouth. Otherwise, positioning would be
corrected simultaneously on the robot arm’s horizontal movement and on sample offset of the
sample / reagent tray.
To adjust horizontal position of the robot arm, the commands probeArmMoveClock and
probeArmMoveCClock should be executed, moving the necessary steps. Once the desired
39
To adjust sample offset on the sample / reagent tray, the commands srMoveBackward or
srMoveForward should be executed. Once the desired position has been obtained, execute the
command eepromWrite A1 116 XXX where XXX is the newly obtained position.
argument. The probe must be positioned inside the sample tube, centered in relation to the tube’s
mouth.
stability of the Robot Arm and the sample / reagent tray’s movement.
Important: the same observations apply as those detailed on point 7 in relation to checking if
the sample / reagent tray is removed.
7.13 Sample Tubes Base Vertical Movement Calibration
The purpose of this calibration is to adjust the vertical movement of the robot arm in sample
tubes.
Initialize sample / reagent tray and robot arm, both vertical and horizontal.
Execute the commands probeGoSample and srGoSample. The Robot Arm will move directly
towards the sample / reagent tray and will be positioned on the mouth of sample tube Nº1.
Then, execute the command probeIn, which will produce a movement on the probe according to
the value that has been set at EEPROM. The probe must be the nearest possible to the bottom of
the sample tube without activating the impact detector, this allows working with the smallest
dead volume of reagent.
If you want to modify this value, you can resort to the commands probeMoveIn and
eepromWrite A1 20 XXX where XXX is the newly obtained position.
40
7.14 Cuvette Washing Container Volume Meter Calibration
Remove the washing container’s connector with its tubings. Execute the command vesselStatus
and, from the asynchronous answer waterVessel, find the value after the letters CW (this value
may be positive or negative). Enter that value in EEPROM by executing eepromWrite A1 336
XXX where XXX is the value that has been read its sign must be enter.
Put the connector and the tubings belonging to the washing container on a full container. Execute
the command vesselStatus and, from the asynchronous answer waterVessel, obtain the value
below after the letters CW (this value may be positive or negative) and subtract the value
obtained before, respecting the signs. Enter the result of the subtraction in EEPROM by executing
eepromWrite A1 338 YYY where YYY is that result respecting the sign.
7.15 Waste Container Volume Meter Calibration
Remove the waste container’s connector with its tubings. Execute the command vesselStatus
and, from the asynchronous answer residuesVessel, obtain the value after the letters CR (this
value may be positive or negative) Enter that value in EEPROM by executing eepromWrite A1
341 XXX where XXX is the value that has been read its sign must be enter.
Put the connector and the tubings belonging to the waste container on a full container. Execute
the command vesselStatus and, from the asynchronous answer residuesVessel, obtain the
value after the letters CR (this value may be positive or negative) and subtract the value obtained
before, respecting the signs. Enter the result of the subtraction in EEPROM by executing
eepromWrite A1 343 YYY where YYY is that result respecting the sign.
7.16 Probe Washing Solution Container Volume Meter Calibration
This meter is optional and may not be implemented in hardware. The related asynchronous
answer is referenced as “Concentrated Residues”.
Remove the Probe Washing solution container’s cap together with its tubings. Execute the
command vesselStatus and, from the asynchronous answer concentratedResiduesVessel,
obtain the value after the letters CC (this value may be positive or negative) Enter that value in
EEPROM by executing eepromWrite A1 346 XXX where XXX is the value that has been read
respecting its sign.
Put the cap and the tubings belonging to the concentrated waste container on a full container.
Execute the command vesselStatus and, from the asynchronous answer
concentratedResiduesVessel, obtain the value after the letters CC (this value may again be
positive or negative) and subtract the value obtained before, respecting the signs. Enter the result
of the subtraction in EEPROM by executing eepromWrite A1 348 YYY where YYY is that result
respecting the sign.
41
8 PARTS REPLACEMENTS
8.1 Light bulb replacement
 Turn off the instrument.

 Remove the right upper lid by removing the screws from the back part of the instrument.
 Remove the dissipater, removing the two screws manually.
 Disconnect the lamp from the air connector by loosening the fastening screw. Remove the
light bulb.
 Install the new light bulb, positioning the filament horizontally.
Caution: hold the light bulb by the base and don’t touch the glass of the bulb. Tighten the
screw slightly and proceed with the adjustment of the focal distance.
Caution: the filament should always be in a horizontal position. Once the proper adjustment
has been made, secure the position of the light bulb with the fastening screw.
 Reconnect the lamp to the air connector.

 Turn on the instrument.
 Start up the photometer Maintenance  Communications  Console of
commands  select photoInit  Execute
 Select a visible wavelength range, ex. 546 nm Maintenance  Communications 
Console of commands  select photoSetFilter  Parameters enter 546 
Execute
Remove one strep of the cuvette in the optical path and place a white piece of paper
against the lens of the photometer. Adjust the position of the lamp such that the filament
can be seen sharply against the paper. In case of being necessary to fit the focal length
moving the lamp, without rotating it (to be able to maintain the filament in horizontal
position), It must look for to focus the beam in the center of the optical path of the
cuvette. Once obtained the adjustment, fix the lamp.
 Run a calibration of the photometer and all the cuvettes Maintenance  Instrument 
Calibration  select Calibrate photometer  select Calibrate cuvettes  First
cuvette 1  Last cuvette 100  select the position of the solution to use for the
calibration ex: Use container  Calibrate
 Finally reset the lamp hour counter with commands:
resetLevelEnable A1 1
resetLevel A1 Lamp
42
Figure 8-1
Figure 8-2
43
8.2 Interferential filters replacement
a. With the equipment off, remove the upper and side lids of the autoanalyzer to have access
to the photometer, located on the right back side.
b. Remove the photometer’s upper lid.
c. Spot the interferential filter to be replaced and manually turn the filter’s wheel clockwisely
to find and to easily remove the interferential filter holder from the filter wheel.
d. Place the holder with the new filter in the filter wheel.
Filter
holder
Figure 8-3
e. Replace the lids, switch on the equipment.

f. Calibrate the photometer from the Maintenance screen, “Photometer calibration” and
select all cuvettes.
8.3 Sample / Reagent probe replacement
a. Keep the equipment off, remove the blue lid on the Sample / Reagent arm.
b. Disconnect the Teflon tubing from the hydraulic connector.
44
Teflon tubing
Fixing
screws
c. Disconnect the connector from PCB and remove the fixing screws on the PCB. To remove
the Sample / Reagent probe remove the PCB
45
d. Replace the Sample / Reagent probe. The new probe has a polarizing pin to make
assembly easier.
Pin
e. Assembly the PCB and connect the Teflon tubing.

f. Perform several purge cycles and check that there is no liquid leak.
46
Caution: Check when assembling the following items for proper replaces
Check distance I is the same as distance II
Check angle of 90 º
47
Correct form
Incorrect form
48
8.4 Diluter syringe replacement
1. Run a diluter purge cycle to start up the syringe Maintenance  Instrument 

Diluter Purge
2. Remove the plunger from the syringe, using the commands console Maintenance 
Communications  Console of commands  select syringeAspirate 
Parameters  enter 100  Execute
3. Remove the screw found at the bottom of the plunger.
Caution: avoid dropping the affixing screw into the interior of the instrument during this
procedure.
4. Turn the body of the syringe to the left, and lower it to disconnect it from the valve joint
area (upper end) and from the plunger support (lower end).
5. Install the new syringe inserting it into the plunger support. Move the body of the syringe
upwards and turn it to the left fixing it to the valve joint area.
6. Fix the syringe in place with the affixing screw.
Caution: Avoid using tools and applying excessive force as this may break the glass
7. Run several diluter purge cycles until the hydraulic circuit is refilled. Maintenance 
Instrument  Diluter Purge
Figure 8-7
49
8.5 Diluter Syringe PTFE Replacement
1. Follow steps 1 - 4 (inclusive) of section (Replacing the diluter syringe).

2. Remove the plunger from inside the body of the syringe.
3. Using a pair of tweezers, grasp the PTFE end of the syringe plunger and remove it.
4. Place the new PTFE piece on a flat surface with the end of the o-ring up.
5. Gently press the syringe plunger into the new PTFE piece, fitting the two parts together.
6. Replace the plunger with the new PTFE into the body of the syringe.
7. Replace the syringe inserting it into the plunger support. Move the body of the syringe
upwards and turn it to the left fixing it to the valve joint area.
8. Fix the syringe in place with the screw.
Caution Avoid using tools and applying excessive force as this may break the glass
8.6 Peristaltic pump tubing replacement

1. Replace the tubings according to the type of material and to its length.
2. Make several cycles of purge, to check the hydraulic connectors.
3. Disconnect the Teflon tubing from the hydraulic connector. Lift the acrylic lid, push the left
white clamp towards the center of the peristaltic pump, and remove the tubing.
4. To remove the tubing completely, manually turn the rollers of the peristaltic pump to the
left until the tube comes free.
5. Push the right white clamp toward the center of the peristaltic pump. This will free the
other end of the tubing.
6. Connect both ends of the new tubing to the hydraulic connectors.
7. Place the new tubing in the peristaltic pump. Starting with the left end, fix the tubing in
place with the white clamp, and feed it through the rollers, turning the rollers manually.
Fix the tubing in place with the white clamp on the right side.
8. Connect the hydraulic connectors to the tubes that lead to the valve and wash solution
container respectively.
50
Figure 8-4
8.7 Piston Pump teflon seals replacement
1. Power down the equipment.

2. Take the Cuvettes Tray cover and SR Tray cover off.
3. Take the top back covers off (remove the back side M3 Allen screws).
4. Move the Robot Header completely to the left.
5. Take the top cover off (remove the 4 M3 Allen screws, there are 2 at each side).
6. Take the front cover off (remove the 4 M4 Allen screws located underneath the
front cover and 2 M3 Allen keys located at the left and right of the front cover).
7. Take the left side cover off (remove the 3 M4 Allen screws located underneath the
left cover and the M4 Allen screw located in analyzer back side).
8. The filling pump is located near the base fan.
9. Remove the M4 Allen screw which fixes the mobile header with the connecting rod
(in the assembly procedure be careful to position the bronze washers in the same
position).
Connecting rod
M4 Allen
screw
Mobile header
Bronze washers
51
10. Take the mobile header off.
11. Take the Teflon seals stoppers locker off (remove the 2 M3 Allen screws).
12. Take the 4 seals stoppers off (avoid to scratch or damage them when using metal
tools).
13. Replace them with new Teflon seals.
14. Follow the inverse procedure to reassemble the pump.
15. Pour 1 drop on oil plush pump.
16. Execute some washing cycles to verify proper pumps performance.
17. Reassemble the covers.
Filling pump diagram
8.8 Membrane replacement.

5. Take the top cover off (remove the 4 M3 Allen screws, there are 2 at each side).
52
6. Take the front cover off (remove the 4 M4 Allen screws located underneath the
front cover and 2 M3 Allen keys located at the left and right of the front cover).
7. Identify the diaphragm pump and remove the hydraulic connectors and electrical
connections.
Caution: Note that the hydraulic connections are sealed. It is important when
assembling resealable acrylic lacquer.
8. Remove the screws holding the pump to the base (three screws M4).
9. After removing the pump proceed to remove the four screws on the header.
10. Remove the three parts of header
53
11. Proceed to remove the membrane unscrewing counter-clockwise
.
12. Follow the inverse procedure to reassemble the pump.
Caution: Consider for assembly, changing the silicone seals and shutter.
54
8.9 Cuvettes replacement
1. Turn off the instrument.

2. Remove all the cuvette strips, unscrewing the metal nuts.
Caution: avoid dropping the metal nuts into the interior of instrument during this
procedure.
3. Put the new strips in place, tightening securely the metal nuts.
4. Turn on the instrument.
5. Run a diluter purge cycle Maintenance  Instrument  Diluter Purge
6. Calibrate all the cuvettes Maintenance  Instrument  Calibration  select
Calibrate cuvettes  Range 1 to 100  select the position of the solution to use ex:
Use container  OK
8.10 Fuses Replacement

1. Turn off the instrument
2. Remove the feed cable from the line filter
3. Remove the lid of the fuse-box located in the upper part of the line filter
4. Remove the burnt fuses and replace them with new ones
5. Replace the lid of the fuse box
6. Reconnect the feed cable to the line filter
7. Turn on the instrument
55
9 MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
To ensure optimal performance and maximum useful life from the instrument, it is important
to follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions outlined in this section.
9.1 Daily Maintenance
9.1.1 Before starting daily operation
1. Verify that the levels of the waste and wash solution containers are adequate to start
the daily operation.
2. Run two diluter purge cycles, visually checking that there are no bubbles present in
the syringe Maintenance  Instrument  Diluter Purge
3. Run one wash cycle with the first 10 cuvettes, verifying the flow of wash solution into
the cuvettes and that there is no overflow. Operations  Wash cuvettes 
Cuvette range  1 to 10  Wash
9.1.2 During the daily operation

Run the wash program each time the screen appears on the instrument.
Programmed Washing  Execute
Caution: After running latex turbidimetric assays, perform an “End of Day Special
Wash” to remove any latex residue from the cuvettes.
9.1.3 Upon finishing with the daily operation

1. Run the “End of Day Special Wash” cycle with all of the Cuvettes. Operations 
Wash cuvettes  Special Wash (enter reagent position)  Wash
2. Run the cleaning of the TIP using a 50% commercial sodium hypochlorite solution in
the selected tube Maintenance  TIP Cleaning  OK
3. Run three diluter purge cycles to rinse out the sodium hypochlorite Maintenance 
56
9.2 Weekly Maintenance
1. Run one wash cycle with all of the cuvettes Operations  Wash cuvettes  All
cuvettes  Wash
2. Run two diluter purge cycles Maintenance  Instrument  Diluter Purge
3. Calibrate all the cuvettes Maintenance  Instrument  Calibration  select

Calibrate cuvettes  Range 1 to 100  select the position of the solution to use
ex: Use container  OK
9.3 Monthly Maintenance
9.3.1 External washing of cuvettes
2. Remove all the cuvette strips, unscrewing the metal nuts.
Caution: avoid dropping the metal nuts into the interior of the instrument during
this procedure.
3. Wash the external part of the cuvettes with detergent and plenty of water.
4. Dry the external part of the cuvettes gently with paper towel.
Caution: avoid scratching or leaving bits of paper inside the cuvettes during this
procedure.
5. Place the cuvette strips on the plate, tightening securely with the metal nuts.
6. Turn on the instrument.
7. Run one wash cycle with all of the cuvettes. Operations  Wash cuvettes  All
cuvettes  Wash
8. Run two diluter purge cycles. Maintenance  Instrument  Diluter Purge
9. Calibrate the photometer and all the cuvettes. Maintenance  Instrument 

Calibration  select Calibrate photometer  select Calibrate cuvettes 
Range 1 to 100  select the position of the solution to use ex: Use container 
OK
57
9.3.2 General washing of the instrument
1. Washing the containers: Disconnect the waste and wash solution tubes and clean
the containers with plenty of water.
Wash solution container: rinse with distilled water.
Waste container: rinse with a commercial bleach solution and plenty of water.
2. Cleaning the reagent tray: Turn off the instrument and the reagent refrigeration.
Remove all the reagent bottles and clean the reagent and sample tray with a damp
cloth.
3. Cleaning the cuvette tray: Clean the cuvette tray with a damp cloth (the black
surface).
4. Cleaning exterior of analyzer: with a damp cloth, clean the external cover, blue
lids, blue hood of the pipetting arm and plastic box of the peristaltic pump.
Caution: The instrument needs to be turned off during this procedure. Take care
not to spill liquids on the instrument.
5. Cleaning the tip externally: Clean the tip from top to bottom with paper towel
dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
Caution: For this procedure, avoid removing the PTFE cover of the volume sensor
probe.
9.3.3 Back-up of files in use
1. Select Methods  Save  a save as…. window will open  select the back-up file
destination for a removable drive. Example: 3 ½ Disc (A:)  name the method file in
use as methods yymmdd.adb, where yy is the year, mm the month and dd the day
for the date of the back-up  Save
2. Repeat the same procedure for the calibrator and control files by going to the
Calibrator and Control menus.
3. Make a back-up of the methods, calibrator and control files when these are
configured for the first time or whenever configuration changes are made.
4. Select Maintenance Menu  Settings  Enter password  Database tab 

Database Copy  select a removable drive  Save
58
Figure 9-1
9.4 MAINTENANCE BASED ON ALARMS
Any change on the procedure could affect the correct working and, because of this would be
very important understand completely this document and follow, step by step, indications
suggested.
ALARMS GENERATED BY COUNTERS
We have three independent counters, one of them count working hours and a second one,
which do the same with cycles or test number and a third, counting the lamp working hours.
As well as we know, a common wearing of machine depend on kind of user, that´s why,
system is able to differentiate on the correct level of maintenance to apply. System analyzes
if maintenance is done by the first counter or second one. Besides, the system puts on
screen a different maintenance levels depending on counters mentioned.
59
Let´s see the system operation:
It works by three levels with two incremental variables. Levels are L1, L2 and L3. Cycles are
embedded in the variable Xc and hours in variable Xh.
Finally, two multipliers are added to increase to the level two and three to be differentiated
from level one.
Those multipliers are called M and N.
Having got last data we are able to write the system equation:
L1 = X
L2 = N . X
L3 = M . N . X
Example:
We want to have a preventive maintenance with 80000 test or 1000 hours for using. In other
words, the first event occurred between both of them. It´ll happen if variables are set as
follow:
Xc = 80000 test or Xh =1000 hours
N=2
M=3
L1 every 80000 tests or 1000 hours.

Note: System was thought with the purpose of repeating a level when it was necessary. It
means between level 2 and level 3, a cycle as L1-L2-L1 would be done before level 3.
The same process will repeat if maintenance is carried out at the time and form specified.
Now, we are able to explain the third and last counter. This is the counter of the lamp
working hours, which indicates the end of the lamp working life.
Because of time of the lamp working life is longer than necessary time passed to do the first
two maintenance levels, this counter is totally independent. Approximately 3000 hours.
60
9.4.1 ENABLING OF COUNTERS
System will be working correctly only if some variables are enabled. This is showed at
ANEXO 11.6
Following data received from statistics we recommend to use:
XH=1000
XC=80000
N=2
M=0
NOTE: M multiplier is fixed on cero because of an autoanalizer InCCA doesn´t need the level
3 maintenance.
Let´s see how variables are loaded with the suggested values:
eepromWriteEnable A1 1
 Enable to write variables.
eepromWrite A1 414 1000
 Embed the quantities of working hours to be counted.
 Embed the quantities of cycles or test to be counted.
 Loading of values in “N” multiplier.
 Loading of values in “M” multiplier.
61
9.5 LEVEL1 MAINTENANCE
Once counters carry specifications out, an alarm appears to show the necessary
maintenance. Let´s see an example:
9.5.1 Disinfecting the reagent tray
1. Turn off the instrument and the refrigeration of the reagent tray.
2. Remove all the reagent containers.
3. Pour a 30% bleach solution in all the compartments of the reagent tray.
4. Leave the solution for 30 minutes.
5. çWash with water, avoiding splatters.
9.5.2 Disinfecting the tubing
1. Remove the hoses from the wash solution container.

2. Place the hoses in a container with a 30% bleach solution.
3. Purge the diluter 10 times.
4. Wash the entire cuvette tray (1 to 100) two times.
5. Leave the solution for one hour.
6. Remove the hoses from the bleach solution and wash the ends of the hoses with
distilled water.
7. Reconnect the hoses to the wash solution container.
8. Purge the diluter 10 times.
9. Wash the entire cuvette tray (1 to 100) two times.
10. Calibrate the cuvettes.
1. Washing the containers: Disconnect the waste and wash solution tubes and clean
the containers with plenty of water.
Wash solution container: rinse with distilled water.
Waste container: rinse with a commercial bleach solution and plenty of water.
62
2. Cleaning the reagent tray: Turn off the instrument and the reagent refrigeration.
Remove all the reagent bottles and clean the reagent and sample tray with a damp
cloth.
3. Cleaning the cuvette tray: Clean the cuvette tray with a damp cloth (the black
surface).
4. Cleaning exterior of analyzer: with a damp cloth, clean the external cover, blue lids,
blue hood of the pipetting arm and plastic box of the peristaltic pump.
Caution The instrument needs to be turned off during this procedure. Take care
not to spill liquids on the instrument.
5. Cleaning the tip externally: Clean the tip from top to bottom with paper towel dipped
in isopropyl alcohol.
Caution: For this procedure, avoid removing the PTFE cover of the volume
sensor
probe.
9.5.4 Lubricating the axels
2. Remove both right and left rear lids by removing the screws at the back of the
instrument.
3. Manually move the probe arm towards the left side of the instrument.
4. Remove the cover by removing the screws located on the sides.
5. Remove the back cover of the diluter (remove the 6 screws M3 Allen that link it with the
back).
6. Lubricate with machine oil the vertical movement axel by the hole in the external cover
of the probe assembly
7. Clean the external lid of the probe assembly with a damp rag.
8. Lubricate with machine oil every of the equipment bronze bushings, axis robot, axis
washer, axis piston pump and axis diluter module.
9. Clean with isoprophl alchohol the screw module dilutor.
10. Lubricate the screw module dilutor with Lubriplate DS-ES.
63
9.5.5 Filter cleaning
5. Take the top cover off (remove the 4 M3 Allen screws, there are 2 at each
side).
6. Take the front cover off (remove the 4 M4 Allen screws located underneath
the front cover and 2 M3 Allen keys located at the left and right of the front
cover).
7. Identify the manifold and remove the hydraulic connectors.
8. After removing the hydraulic connection proceed to remove the bottom of the
manifold
64
9. Clean with water the internal filter.
10. Follow the inverse procedure to reassemble the manifold.
Caution: At the time of arming lubricate the seal with silicone grease to prevent sticking
of the rubber with PVC As needed maintenance
65
Following, we can see the bill of materials to be replaced on level 1 maintenance:
Kit Maintenance Kit Level 1 (80000 Tests or 1000 hours)

Grupo C (KITCL1)
TB0001 Kit x 2 peristaltic pumpTubings 0,5
JGT002 500µl Syringe Teflon (model 2) 1
OTL001 O-rings Teflon Filling Pump 4
OBT001 H shutter 2
JU0001 Silicone seals 4
MBR001 Membrane 1
9.5.6 Diluter Syringe PTFE Replacement

See Section 8.5
9.5.7 Peristaltic pump tubing replacement

See Section 8.6
9.5.8 Piston Pump teflon seals replacement

See Section 8.7
9.5.9 Membrane Replacement

See Section 8.8
NOTE: Once mentioned maintenance was done, We have to reset a counter internal mark to
modify the counter base.
To do this we use the following command:
resetLevelEnable A1
resetLevel A1 1
66
Status verification
Now, we need to read the system status with the command.
systemStatus A1
This is the command which gives the actual information from instrument and, this is used to
know what kind of maintenance we need to do. For example, last command gives us the
information about lamp working hours. Therefore, if the counter time is near of the end time
for lamp life we could change the part (lamp) and evade another programmed visit for
official service.
9.6 LEVEL2 MAINTENANCE
Once counters carry specifications out, another alarm appears to show the necessary
maintenance. Let´s see an example:
9.6.1 Disinfecting the reagent tray

See Section 9.5.1
9.6.2 Disinfecting the tubing

See Section 9.5.2

See Section 9.5.3
9.6.4 Lubricating the axels

See Section 9.5.4
67
9.6.5 Filter cleaning
See Section 9.5.5
Following, we can see the bill of materials to be replaced on level 2 maintenance:
Kit Maintenance Kit Level 2 (160000 Tests or 2000 Hours)

Group C (KITCL2)
TB0001 Kit x 2 peristaltic pumpTubings 0,5
JG0002 500µl Syringe (model 2) 1
ST0001 Strips with 10 cuvettes each 10
OBT001 H shutter 2
MBR001 Membrane 1
9.6.6 Diluter Syringe Replacement

See Section 8.4

See Section 8.6

See Section 8.7

See Section 8.8
9.6.10 Special Wash

See Section 8.9
NOTE: Once mentioned maintenance was done, We have to reset a counter internal mark to
modify the counter base.
68
To do this we use the following command:
resetLevelEnable A1
resetLevel A1 2
Status verification
Now, we need to read the system status with the command.
systemStatus A1
This is the command which gives the actual information from instrument and, this is used to
know what kind of maintenance we need to do. For example, last command gives us the
information about lamp working hours. Therefore, if the counter time is near of the end time
for lamp life we could change the part (lamp) and evade another programmed visit for
official service.
9.7 Maintenance According to Need
9.7.1 Database Initialization (every 10,000 determinations)

Refresh Statistics
The numbers of patients, calibrators, and control samples for the database in use are
displayed in the left part of the tab. The Total is also shown, with the inclusion of the
patients, calibrators, and control samples. In the adjacent box the Total value
corresponds to the sum of all the determinations in the database in use. These
numbers are updated with the Refresh Statistics command.
Before the total number of determinations reaches the 10,000, the database must be
initialized: steps 2), 3) and 4).

Export results  select the folder where the data will be saved. Name the file as
results yymmdd.csv, where yy is the year, mm the month and dd the day for the date
of the back-up. Press Save, and a window will open for selecting the type of results
to be saved: patient, calibrator and control results. Select all the options and press
Export. The next window allows for the selection of the entire database or just a
range given by the date and the hour, or the process numbers (first and last). For the
entire database select the option All.

Database Copy  select a removable drive  Save
69
4. Select Maintenance Menu  Settings  Enter password  Database 
Initialize
5. Press OK in this tab, close and open software.
The Patient results, Calibrators and Controls are all erased. The last calibration is saved
in the methods configuration, and the configuration dates of the calibrators, controls and
methods are not modified.
9.7.2 Diluter Syringe Replacement

See Section 8.4
9.7.3 Diluter Syringe PTFE Replacement

See Section 8.5

See Section 8.6
9.7.5 Light Bulb Replacement

See Section 8.1
9.7.6 Cuvettes Replacement

See Section 8.9
9.7.7 Fuses Replacement

See Section 8.10

See Section 8.7

See Section 8.8
9.7.10 Special Wash
1. Pour special wash solution into a single reagent container

2. Place the container in the reagent tray
3. In the Wash cuvettes screen, select Special Wash and enter in Reagent Pos. the
position of the container
70
4. Press Wash
5. Once the special wash is finished, the cuvettes are ready to be used
71
10 TROUBLESHOOTING
This Troubleshooting section provides help to solve different situations that may happen with
the autoanalyzer
For any problem other than those described here, contact exclusively the
Technical Service authorized by Audit Diagnostics.
Problems may be gathered in three main groups:
1. Malfunction problems, error flag will appears on the screen.
2. Visible failures
3. Inconsistent measurements
10.1 Malfunction problems displayed on the screen

Error messages will be displayed on the screen like this:
Figure 10-1
These kinds of messages report the Error ID number and a brief description of the problem.
Below, there’s a list with all the Hardware Messages, including a probable cause and a
possible solution.
NOTE: This tool is useful in most cases, but it is not a definite solution for all the problems.
72
Hardware Messages
GENERAL
Error ID Number and Probable cause Possible Solution
Description
(0001) The Analyzer has been Powered off or reset of Initialization sequence
powered on. An initialization Autoanalizer
sequence will be required
(0003) Low Reagent Volume Non reagent Necessary loading of
remaining reagent
(0004) Check EEPROM Main controller Consult to factory for
version actualization actualization
(0005) Slave Communication Error by slave controller Restart autoanalizer. If the
error communication same problem stays,
change Controller PCB.
(0006) Error during reaction Failure in level Verification for setting offset
mixing detection during in vertical movement by
homogenization. dispensed position (eeprom
32).
Verify cuvettes volume
(0007) Maintenance Level 1 Cycles/hours were Consult "MAINTENANCE

must be done. Contact achieved for level 1 BASED ON ALARMS" section
Technical Support maintenance
(0010) Lamp rated lifespan Cycles/hours for using Preventive change of the
reached. Contact Technical lamp were achieved lamp
Support
EEPROM
Description
(0031) EEPROM writing Wrong direction Verify direction and type of argument.
error or defective Replace EEPROM in case the failure
EEPROM goes on.
(0032) EEPROM Wrong direction Verify direction. Replace EEPROM in
reading error or defective case the failure goes on.
EEPROM
73
(0033)EEPROM writing Enabling Execute the command
disabled command not "eepromWriteEnable A1 1" from the
executed command console (Terminal line).
(0034) EEPROM erasing Defective Verify the existence of EEPROM U24.
error EEPROM In case the failure goes on, replace
EEPROM.
In case the failure goes on, replace PCB
Controller.
(0035)EEPROM Defective Verify the existence of EEPROM U24.
absorbance clearing EEPROM In case the failure goes on, replace
error EEPROM.
In case the failure goes on, replace PCB
Controller.
(0036 Wrong Direction EEPROM error direction. Check the
EEPROM writing error direction value
(variable does not
exist)
(0037) Wrong Direction EEPROM error direction. Check the

EEPROM reading error direction value.
(variable does not
exist)
VERTICAL
Description
(0101) Physical impact Verify possible obstacles along the
Probe Impact (Vertical path of header movement.
Movement) Impact switches Verify the proper working of the
failures switches and springs in preheater
(preheater board.
board)
Poor contacts Check the pins on J3 of PCB preheater
and on J24 of PCB Controller.
(0102 Home sensing Verify pins in J6 of PCB Controller and in
Probe Vertical Movement Failure J1 of the PCB Sensor R (Vertical) of
not initialized or robot module Robot. Then verify
initialization error (Home electrical contact pin to pin.
active) Verify the proper working of the PCB
Sensor R (Vertical).
74
Verify the proper working of PCB
Controller. To do this, measure with a
voltmeter on pin 9 of IC U30, ensuring
the switching of the logic state when
blocking and unblocking sensor R
(vertical)
Mechanical Verify belt
failure Verify the stepper motor movement
(When initializing vertical movement, if
the flag is blocking the vertical Sensor,
the stepper motor must go down 60
steps)
Vertical Execute commands of initialization
movement not movement.
initialized.
(0103) Sensing failure Verify pins in J6 of PCB Controller and in
Probe Vertical Movement home J1 of the PCB Sensor R (Vertical) of
not initialized or robot module. Then, verify electrical
initialization error (Home contact pin to pin.
inactive) Verify the proper working of the PCB
Sensor R (Vertical).
(vertical)
failure Verify the stepper motor movement (if
starting the vertical, the vertical flag is
not blocking the sensor, the stepper
motor must go up until HOME position
Vertical Execute commands of initialization
movement not movement
initialized
(0104) Home sensing Verify pins in J6 of PCB controller and in

Probe Vertical Movement failure J1 of the PCB sensor R (vertical) of the
error (Home not found) robot module. Then, verify the
electrical contact pin to pin.
Verify the proper working of the PCB
sensor R (vertical)
75
(vertical)
Mechanical Verify belts.
failure. Verify the stepper motor upward
movement
Verify that the flag obstructs sensor R
(vertical)
(0105) probe vertical Home sensing Verify pins in J6 of PCB controller and
movement error (home failure J1 of the PCB sensor R (vertical) of
active) robot module. Then, verify electrical
contact pin to pin.
sensor R.
(vertical)
Mechanical Verify belt.
failure Verify the stepper motor downward
movement
Verify the flag unblock sensor R
(vertical)
(0106) Controller old Contact the company to update
Upgrade Vertical version. controller.
Movement Controller
(0107) probe level not Wiring failure Check electrical contact between J3
detected(level inactive) of PCB preheater and J24 of PCB
controller.
Probe failure. Verify electrical contact between
probe auxiliary capillary and pin 2 in J1
of PCB preheater and between main
capillary tube (for dispense) and the
pin 1 on J1 of PCB preheater.
Preheater PCB Replace the PCB Preheater
failure
(0108) See error solving 101 and 109.
Probe Impact (Vertical
Movement) and incorrect
Probe Level Detection
76
(Level active)
(0109 Sensing failure Clean the probe in case of possible

Incorrect Probe Level dirtiness or a drop between the
Detection (Level active) auxiliary and the main capillary
Probe failure Check the insulation between the
main capillary and the auxiliary: with a
multimeter at the range of 20Mohms
must measure high impedance
Module Verify the insulation of the module.
preheater failure NOTE: the stainless capillary in the
module must be insulated from the
Power Resistance and chassis that hold
them.
Wiring failure Check the contact between J3 of PCB
preheater and J24 of PCB controller.
HORIZONTAL
Description
(0151)probe impact Physical impact Verify possible obstacles in the
(horizontal movement) movement
Impact switches Verify the proper working of the
failures switches and springs in the preheater
(preheater board.
board)
Poor contacts Check the pins on J3 of PCB preheater
and J24 of PCB controller.
(0152) Home Sensing Verify pins on J4 of PCB controller and
Probe Vertical failure J1 of PCB sensor R (horizontal) of robot
Movement not initialized module.
or initialization error Verify the proper working of the PCB
(Home active) sensor R (horizontal)
controller. To do this, measure with a
voltmeter pin 9 of IC U33 the switching
of the logic states when blocking and
unblocking sensor R (horizontal)
failure Verify stepper motor movement (when
initializing horizontal movement, if the
arm is blocking horizontal sensor ,this
should move 230 clockwise)
77
Horizontal Execute the commands to initialize the
initialized
(0153) Home sensing Verify pins on J4 of PCB controller and

Probe Vertical failure J1of PCB sensor R (horizontal) of robot
Movement not initialized module. Then, verify electrical contact
or initialization error pin to pin.
(Home inactive) Verify the proper working of the PCB
Sensor R (Horizontal).
voltmeter pin 9 of IC U33, ensuring the
switching of the logic states when
(horizontal).
failure
Verify stepper motor movement (when
initializing horizontal movement, if the
horizontal flag is not blocking the
sensor, the stepper motor should
counter-clockwise until HOME position)
Horizontal Execute the commands to initialize the
initialized
(0154) Home sensing Verify pins on J4 of PCB controller and
Probe Horizontal failure J1 of PCB sensor R (horizontal) of robot
Movement error (Home module. Then verify electrical contact
active) pin to pin.
Verify the proper working of PCB sensor
R (horizontal)
(horizontal).
failure
Verify the horizontal movement of the
arm when it rotates clockwise.
Verify that the flag unblocks the sensor
R (horizontal).
78
(0155) Home sensing Verify pins on J4 of PCB
Probe Horizontal failure
Movement error (Home Verify the proper working of PCB sensor
inactive) R (horizontal).
(horizontal).
failure
Verify the horizontal movement of the
arm when it rotates counter-clockwise.
Verify that the flag unblocks sensor R
(horizontal).
Reaction tray
Description
(0201) Physical impact Verify possible obstacles in the
Probe Impact movement.
(Reaction Tray) Impact switches Verify the proper working of the
failure (preheater switches and springs in preheater
board) board.
poor contacts Check pins J3of PCB preheater and
J24 of PCB controller.
(0202) Home sensing Sensor P switched off.
Reaction Tray not failure Verify pins J12 of PCB controller and
initialized or J1 of PCB sensor P of reaction tray.
initialization error Then, verify electrical contact pin to
(Home active) pin.
sensor P (optical sensor)
blocking and unblocking sensor P by
means of the slots of the slotted-
wheel.
79
failure Verify stepper motor movement to
execute commands of movement or
initialization.
Reaction tray not Execute commands to initialize
initialized module.
(0203) Home sensing Verify pins J12 of PCB controller and
Reaction Tray not failure. J1 of PCN sensor P of reaction tray.
initialized or Then, verify electrical contact pin to
initialization error pin.
(Home inactive) Verify the proper working of PCB
wheel.
failure Verify the stepper motor movement
when executing commands of
initialization.
Reaction tray not Execute command of module
initialized. initialization.
(0204) Module not
Reaction Tray not initialized.
initialized
(0205) Home sensing Verify pins on J12 of PCB controller

Reaction Tray error error. and J1 of PCB sensor P of reaction
(slotted tray counting tray. Then verify electrical contact pin
error) to pin.
wheel.
Mechanical Verify there’s nothing blocking the
failure. reaction tray movement and the
stepper motor does not lose any
steps
Verify belt and tension
80
Sensor P out of Adjust the sheet (the one in shape of
counting “L”) supporting sensor P, so that, it is
position. positioned to be blocked and
unblocked by means of the slots of
the slotted-wheel (radial position).
NOTE: make sure there is not any
friction between the slotted-wheel
and the optical sensor.
(0206 Mechanical Verify belt and tension.
Reaction Tray error failure
(Home active) Sensing failure Adjust the sheet (the one in shape of
“L”) supporting sensor P, so that, it is
positioned to be blocked and
Verify pins J12 of PCB controller and
J1 of PCB sensor P of reaction tray.
Then, verify electrical contact pin to
pin.
(0207) Mechanical Verify belt and tension.
Reaction Tray error failure.
(Home inactive) Sensing failure. Adjust the sheet (the one in shape of
“L”) supporting sensor P, so that, it is
positioned to be blocked and
Verify pins J12 of PCB controller and
J1 of PCB sensor P of reaction tray.
pin
(0208) Mechanical Verify belt of washer module
Reaction Tray failure. Verify there’s nothing blocking the
movement reaction tray movement and the
inadequate safety stepper motor does not lose any
conditions (Washer) steps
Sensing failure of Verify the proper working of PCB
W-UP and W- sensor L (two optical sensors)
81
DOWN. Verify pins on J8 of PCB controller and
J1 of PCB sensor L of washer module.
pin.
voltmeter on pin 9 and 11 of IC U26,
ensuring the switching of the logic
states when blocking and unblocking
sensor L during the washer
movement.
NOTE: the equipment verifies the state of the washer
before moving the reaction tray.
(EO209) Same values for Increase or decrease the dispensed

Reaction Tray dispensed offset offset value. Add or subtract 1 in the
programming error and photometer direction 82 of EEPROM.
(Dispensing and offset.
Photometer offset)
SAMPLES-REAGENT TRAY
Description
(0251) Physical impact. Verify possible obstacles in the movement.
Probe Impact
(Samples and Impact switches Verify the proper working of the switches
Reagents Tray) failures and springs in preheater board.
(preheater
board)
poor contacts Check pins on J3of PCB preheater and J24
of PCB controller.
(0252) Home sensing Sensor P switched off.
Samples and failure. Verify pins on J2 of PCB controller and J1 of
Reagents Tray not PCB sensor P of Sample and Reagent
initialized or module. Then, check electrical contact pin
initialization error to pin.
(Home active) Verify the proper working of PCB sensor P
(optical sensor).
Verify pins on J2 of PCB controller. To do
this, measure with a voltmeter pin 9 of IC
U37, ensuring the switching of the logic
states when blocking and unblocking
sensor P by means of the slots of the slotted-
wheel.
82
failure Verify the stepper motor movement when
executing commands of movement or
initialization.
Sample-reagent Execute commands to initialize the module.
tray not
initialized.
(0253) Home sensing Verify pins on J2 of PCB controller and J1 of
Samples and failure PCB sensor P of sample-reagent module.
Reagents Tray not Then, check electrical contact pin to pin.
initialized or
initialization error Verify the proper working of PCB sensor P
(Home inactive) (optical sensor)
Verify the proper working of PCB controller.
To do this, measure with a voltmeter on pin
9 of IC U37, the switching of the logic states
when blocking and unblocking sensor P by
means of the slots of the slotted-wheel
movement.
failure. Verify the stepper motor movement when
executing commands of movement or
initialization.
Reagent and Execute command of initialization module.
samples tray not
initialized.
(0254) Module not Initialize module.
Samples and initialized
Reagents Tray not
initialized
(0255) Home sensing Verify pins J2 of PCB controller and J1 of

Samples and failure PCB sensor P of reagent and samples
Reagents Tray error module. Then, check electrical contact pin
(slotted tray to pin.
counting error) Verify the proper working of PCB sensor P
(optical sensor)
Verify the proper working of PCB controller.
To do this, measure with a voltmeter on pin
9 of IC U37, the switching of the logic states
blocking and unblocking sensor P by means
of the slotted-wheel movement.
Mechanical Verify there’s nothing blocking the reaction

failure. tray movement and the stepper motor
does not lose any steps
83
Verify belt and tension.
Sensor- P out of Adjust the sheet (the one in shape of “L”)
the counting supporting sensor P, so that it is positioned
position. to be blocked and unblocked together
with the slotted-wheel (radial position).
NOTE: make sure that there is not any
friction between the slotted-wheel and the
optical sensor.

Samples and failure.
Reagents Tray error Sensing failure. Adjust the sheet (the one in shape of “L”)
(Home active) supporting sensor P, so that it is positioned
to be blocked and unblocked by means of
friction between the slotted-wheel with the
optical sensor.
Verify pins on J2 of PCB controller and J1 of
PCB sensor P sample-reagent tray. Then,
check electrical contact pin to pin.

Samples and failure
Reagents Tray error Sensing failure Adjust the sheet (the one in shape of “L”)
(Home inactive) supporting sensor P, so that it is positioned
to be blocked and unblocked by means of
friction between the slotted-wheel with the
optical sensor.
Verify pins J2 of PCB controller and J1 of
PCB sensor P of reagent and serum tray.
Then, check electrical contact pin to pin.
FILTER WHEEL.
Error ID Number Probable Possible Solution
and Description cause
(0302) Home sensing Sensor F disconnected.
84
Filter Wheel not failure. Verify pins on J10 of PCB controller and J1 of
initialized or PCB sensor F of photometer. Then, check the
initialization error electrical contact pin to pin.
(Home active)
Verify the proper working of PCB sensor F
(optical sensor).
Verify the proper working of PCB. To do this,
measure with a voltmeter on pin 9 of IC U13, the
switching of the logic states when blocking and
unblocking sensor F by means of the slotted-
wheel movement.
Mechanical Check the suitable attach between the filter

failure. wheel and the stepper motor axis.
Verify stepper motor movement of the filter
wheel when executing commands of
movement or initialization.
Filter wheel not Execute commands to initialize the module.
initialized.
Filter Wheel not failure PCB sensor F of photometer. Then, check
initialized or electrical contact pin to pin.
initialization error
(Home inactive) Verify the proper working of PCB controller of
PCB sensor F (optical sensor).
Verify the proper working of PCB controller. To
do this, measure with a voltmeter on pin 9 of IC
U13, the switching of the logic states when
blocking and unblocking sensor F by means of
the slotted-wheel movement.
Mechanical Check the suitable attach between the filter

failure wheel and the stepper motor axis
Verify the filter wheel stepper motor movement
when executing commands of movement or
initialization.
Filter wheel not Execute commands to initialize the module.
initialized.
(0304) Module not Initialize module
Filter Wheel not initialized.
initialized
85
Filter Wheel error failure. PCB sensor F of photometer. Then, check
(slotted tray electrical contact pin to pin.
counting error)
Verify the proper working of PCB sensor F
(optical sensor)
Verify the proper working of PCB controller. To
U13, the switching of the logic states when
blocking and unblocking sensor F by means of
the slotted-wheel movement.
Mechanical Verify that the stepper motor does not lose any
failure step and there’s nothing blocking the filter
wheel movement. Check all filters are properly
screwed.
Sensor F out of Adjust the sheet supporting sensor F, so that, it is
the counting positioned to be blocked and unblocked with
position. the slots of the slotted-wheel (That belong to the
filter wheel)(radial position). NOTE: make sure
that there is not any friction between the slotted-
wheel and the optical sensor.
(0306) Poor contacts. Verify connector J9 (stepper motor)
Filter Wheel error Mechanical Verify that the stepper motor does not lose any
(Home active) failure step and that no lock is found in the filter wheel
movement. Check that all filters are well
screwed.
Sensing failure Adjust the sheet supporting sensor F, so that it is
positioned to be blocked and unblocked with
the slot of the filter wheel (radial position). NOTE:
make sure that there is not any friction between
the slotted-wheel with the optical sensor
Verify pins J10 of PCB controller and J1 of PCB

sensor F of photometer. Then, check electrical
contact pin to pin.
(0307) Poor contacts Verify connector J9 (stepper motor).

Filter Wheel error Mechanical Verify that the stepper motor does not lose any
(Home inactive) failure step and that no lock is found in the filter wheel
movement. Check that all filters are well
screwed.
86
Sensing failure. Adjust the sheet supporting sensor F, so that it is
positioned to be blocked and unblocked with
the slot of the slotted-wheel (radial position).
NOTE: make sure that there is not any friction
between the slotted-wheel with the optical
sensor
Verify pins J10 of PCB controller and J1 of PCB
sensor F of photometer. Then, check electrical
contact pin to pin
READING (AMPLIFIERS)
Description
(0321 A reading was performed Wait a reasonable time.
The time is not enough before reaching the time (it is recommended at least 10
for thermal of thermal stabilization. minutes)
stabilization. Please
repeat the test after
some minutes
(0322) It has been intended to Place the cover of the reaction

Reaction Tray carry out a reading tray.
uncovered. Please operation without placing
place the cover the cover of the reaction
tray.
Light sensor failure. Check the working of the sensor
and the sensing circuit of PCB
controller.
(0323) Lamp burned out. Replace the lamp.
Lamp error (burned,
unconnected or
power failure)
Lamp disconnected or Check lamp connections.
without any supplies. Measure the contact from both
sides of the wire (orange and
yellow)
Measure the voltage on its
connector and J2 of PCB
regulator, using a multimeter.
(0324) The lamp turned off and Execute commands: “IH A1” to
Lamp powered off the analyzer attempts to turn on the lamp and do the
read. reading again.
87
(0325) Communication error If the problem goes on, try to
Internal CRC error between amplifier replace the amplifier controller. If
(Amplifier) controller and Main the problem remains, contact
controller. the manufacturer.
(0326) Lack of calibration. Run photometer calibration.
Low energy in Exit Lens of the reference Verify the lens is clean
Reference Beam. channel
Calibrate Photometer Defective Lamp After trying with the alternatives
above; make sure the lamps
have not finished the lifecycle.
Contact the manufacture to
know about cases in which it
should be changed.
Defective Beam Filter Check the filter
(0327) Lack of calibration. Do photometer calibration.
Low energy in Sample Scratch Cuvette or not Check the cuvettes alignment
Beam. Check Sample aligned. with the beam
absorbance Replace the cuvette or try to
calibrate another cuvette. (it is
recommended to change the
defective cuvettes)
Exit Lens of the reference Verify the lens is clean
channel
Defective Lamp After trying with the alternatives
above; make sure the lamps
have not finished the lifecycle.
Contact the manufacture to
know about cases in which it
should be changed.
Defective Beam Filter Check the filter
(0328) Reaction tray uncover Place the cover of the reaction
Saturated Reference tray.
Amplifier Reference amplifier Check the reference amplifier is
disconnected. properly connected.
Reference amplifier Once the wiring is properly
failure. checked, if the problem remains,
try replacing the amplifier board.
Filter missing. Verify the filter wheel has no
missing filter.
Incorrect positioning of a Check that the filters are in the
Beam Filter. correct order. Note: the correct
order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505,
546, 578, 600, 650, 700,
OPTIONAL, Stopper-Beam.
(0329) Reaction tray uncovered Place the cover of the reaction
Saturated Sample tray.
88
Amplifier Reference amplifier Check the reference amplifier is
disconnected properly connected.
Reference amplifier Once the wiring is properly
failure. checked, if the problem remains,
try replacing the amplifier board.
Filter missing Verify the filter wheel is
completed.
order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505,
546, 578, 600, 650, 700,
Amplifiers disconnected. Check the amplifiers are properly
connected.
completed
order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505,
546, 578, 600, 650, 700,
(0330) Lamp failure Measure the voltage on the
High energy lamp connector; verify it’s within
Reference Beam the range of 12Volts +/- 0.1Volt
order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505,
546, 578, 600, 650, 700,
Defective filter Replace the beam filter
(0331) High energy Lamp failure Measure the voltage on the
Sample Beam lamp connector; verify it’s within
the range of 12Volts +/- 0.1Volt
order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505,
546, 578, 600, 650, 700,
Defective filter Filter change
(0332) Reaction tray lid not Place the lid of the reaction tray.
Saturated Sample placed.
and Reference Amplifiers disconnected. Check the amplifiers are properly
Amplifiers connected.
completed
89
order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505,
546, 578, 600, 650, 700,
PHOTOMETER CALIBRATION
Description
(0351) Filter ID values set Check that the filters are properly
Photometer Calibration on the EEPROM set in the EEPROM.
error (no filters
programmed in EEPROM)
(0352) Possible failure in Check the working of the IC

Photometer Calibration filter wheel controller. For more information
error (Filter Wheel Controller controller. contact the manufacturer.
communication)
(0353) Possible failure in Check the working of the IC

Photometer Calibration amplifier IC controller. For more information
error (Amplifier Controller controller. contact the manufacturer
communication)
(0354 Calibration logic Contact the manufacturer

Photometer Calibration error.
error
(0355) Scratched Check the cuvette alignment with

Photometer Calibration cuvette or not the beam.
error (low energy in Sample aligned. Replace the cuvette or try to
Beam) calibrate another cuvette. (Anyway,
it is recommended to replace
defective cuvettes)
Exit lens of the Verify the lens is clean
reference
channel.
Amplifier sample Once the wiring is properly
Failure. checked, if the problem remains, try
replacing the amplifier board.
(0356) Exit lens of the Verify the lens is clean
Photometer Calibration reference
error (low energy in channel.
90
Reference Beam) Failure in the Once the wiring is properly
amplifier checked, if the problem remains, try
reference. replacing the amplifier board.
(0357 Defective lamp Make sure the lamps have not
Photometer Calibration finished the lifecycle. Contact the
error (low energy in Sample manufacture to know about the
and Reference Beam) cases in which it should be
changed.
Exit lens. Verify the lens is clean
Incorrect Check that the filters are in the

positioning of a correct order. Note: the correct
Beam Filter. order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505, 546,
578, 600, 650, 700, OPTIONAL, Black
Stopper
Defective filter Check the integrity of the filter.
(0358) Alignment failure Check the alignment of the cuvette
Photometer Calibration in the optical with the beam.
error (high energy in path
Sample Beam) Sample Amplifier Once the wiring is properly
(0359) Reference Once the wiring is properly
Photometer Calibration Amplifier Failure. checked, if the problem remains, try
error (high energy in replacing the amplifier board.
Reference Beam)
(0360) Incorrect Check that the filters are in the

Photometer Calibration positioning of a correct order. Note: the correct
error (high energy in Beam Filter. order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505, 546,
Sample and Reference 578, 600, 650, 700, OPTIONAL, Black
Beam) Stopper
Lamp failure Measure tension on the connector
using a voltmeter, it should be 12V
+/- 0.1V
Defective filter Filter change
91
Amplifiers failure Check the amplifier connection
(they should not be inverted)
(0361) Photometer Spurious light. Check the photometer is properly
Calibration error (high Zero covered and there is no light
in Sample Amplifier) coming from outside.
Sample Amplifier Once the wiring is properly
(0362) Photometer Spurious light. Check the photometer is properly
Calibration error (high Zero closed and no light is reached.
in Reference Amplifier)
Reference Once the wiring is properly
Amplifier Failure. checked, if the problem remains, try
(0363) Photometer Incorrect Check that the filters are in the
Calibration error (high Zero positioning of a correct order. Note: the correct
in Sample and Reference Beam Filter. order is 340, 380, 405, 450, 505, 546,
Amplifiers) 578, 600, 650, 700, OPTIONAL, Black
Stopper
Lamp failure Measure tension on the connector
using a voltmeter, it should be 12V
+/- 0.1V
Defective filter Replace the filter
Missing filter Check the filter wheel is completed.
Amplifiers failures Check the amplifier connection

(they should not be inverted)
(0364) Photometer Defective Replace EEPROM. Contact the
Calibration error (EEPROM EEPROM manufacturer.
writing error)
(0365) Photometer Dirty cuvette Clean the cuvette
Calibration (High Gain Sample lens Turning dirtiness over in sample lens
Sample Amplifier) obstructed
Sample Amplifier Once the wiring is properly
Failure checked, if the problem remains, try
(0366) Photometer Reference lens Remove dirtiness in reference lens
Calibration (High Gain obstructed
Reference Amplifier) Sample Amplifier Once the wiring is properly
Failure checked, if the problem remains, try
(0367) Photometer Cycles/hours for Preventive change of the lamp
Calibration (High Gain using lamp were
Sample and Reference achieved
Amplifiers) Input lens or Remove dirtiness on lens or beam
beam splitter splitter
92
obstructed
Lamp power fell Measure tension on the connector
down using a voltmeter, it should be 12V
+/- 0.1V
Cuvettes calibration.
Description
(0381) Filter ID values set on Check that the filters are properly set
Cuvettes Calibration the EEPROM in the EEPROM.
error (no filters
programmed in
EEPROM)
(0382) Possible failure in IC Check the working of the IC

Cuvettes Calibration filter-wheel controller. For more information
error (Filter Wheel controller. contact the manufacturer
Controller
communication)
(0383) Possible failure in IC Check the working of the IC

Cuvettes Calibration controller (Amplifier). controller. For more information
error (Amplifier contact the manufacturer
Controller
communication)
(0384) Error in the logic of For more information contact the

Cuvettes Calibration calibration. manufacturer
error
(0385) Lack of calibration. Run photometer calibration.

Cuvettes Calibration Scratched cuvette Check the alignment of the cuvettes
error (low energy in or poorly aligned. with the beam.
Sample Beam) Replace the cuvette.
(it is recommended to replace the
defective cuvettes)
Exit lens of the Check the lens is clear.
sample channel
(0386) Lack of calibration. Do photometer calibration.
Cuvettes Calibration Exit lens of the Check the lens is clear.
error (low energy in reference channel.
Reference Beam)
93
(0387) Scratched cuvette Check the alignment of the cuvette
Cuvettes Calibration or poorly aligned. with the beam.
error (Cuvette
absorbance too high,
replace the cuvettes)
Replace the cuvette.

(it is recommended to replace the
defective cuvettes)
Lack of calibration Do photometer calibration
(0388) Lack of calibration Do photometer calibration
Cuvettes Calibration Cuvette not aligned. Check the alignment of the beam
error (Cuvette with the cuvette.
absorbance too low, Replace the cuvette.
Calibrate Photometer (it is recommended to replace the
in a different cuvette defective cuvettes)
or replace de
cuvettes)
(0389) Striped cuvette or Check the alignment of the beam

Cuvettes Calibration misaligned with the cuvette.
(Cuvette absorbance Replace the cuvette.
too high, replace the (it is recommended to replace the
cuvettes when defective cuvettes)
possible) Lack of calibration Run photometer calibration
(0390) Lack of calibration Run photometer calibration

Cuvettes Calibration Cuvette poorly Check the alignment of the cuvette
(Cuvette absorbance aligned. with the beam.
too low, Calibrate Replace the cuvette.
Photometer in a (it is recommended to replace the
different cuvette or defective cuvettes)
replace de cuvettes
when possible)
(0391) Defective EEPROM. Replace EEPROM.

Cuvettes Calibration Contact the manufacturer.
error (EEPROM writing
error)
94
HEATER AND PRE-HEATER
Error ID Number and Probable Possible Solution
Description cause
(0401) Wiring Check pin to pin the electrical contact of

Temperature reading error failure the wiring that connects J16 of PCB
(can't read Reaction Tray controller and J1 of PCB Heater.
A/D converter) A/D Once the wire is checked, try to replace
defective the Heater PCB. (Caution: avoid handling
these boards without the electrostatic
bracelet)
(0451) Wiring Check pin to pin the contact of the wiring
Temperature reading error failure that connects J24 of PCB controller and J3
(can't read Preheater A/D of PCB preheater.
converter)
A/D Once the wire is checked, try to replace
defective the PCB.
DILUTER
Error ID Number Probable cause Possible Solution
and Description
(0501) Wiring failure Check pins in connector J23of PCB controller.
Diluter
Initialization Check the power supply connector (J6 on PCB
error Regulator). Un easy way of check this, is to
visualize the LED on the electronic board of
diluter module (This is in case of having the
MODEL #2)
In case of having MODEL #1 check the fuse
Mechanical Check the belt below the Module.

failure
(0502) Contact your
Diluter invalid manufacturer.
command
(0503) Incorrect Verify the aspiration Volume in the Method

Diluter invalid Volume parameters.
operand
95
(0504) Contact your
Diluter invalid manufacturer.
command
sequence
(0505) Dilutor not Execute initialization commands.

Diluter not initialized.
initialized
(0506) Mechanical Check possible obstacles in the movement of

Diluter Plunger failure the syringe plunger.
overload
Check the belt below the module.
(0507) Mechanical Check possible particles in the flow path to the

Diluter Valve failure valve.
overload
Check water quality. A better one should
increase the lifecycle
(0508) Wrong position Check valve position, before moving the
Diluter Plunger of the valve. syringe.
move not
allowed
(0509) Contact your

Diluter manufacturer.
command
overflow
WASHER
Error ID Number and Probable Possible Solution
Description cause
(0552) Sensing Check pins on J8 of PCB controller and J1of PCB
Washer not failure. sensor L of washer module. Then check
initialized or electrical continuity pin to pin.
(Up active) Check the proper working of PCB sensor L
(optical sensor).
Check the proper working of PCB controller. To
U26 the switching of the logic states when
blocking and unblocking the sensor UP of
washer.
96
Mechanical Check belt
failure. Check descending movement of the engine
Check the flag is able to unblock sensor UP.
(0553) Sensing Check pins on J8 of PCB controller and J1of PCB

Washer not failure. sensor L of washer module. Then check
initialized or electrical continuity pin to pin.
(Up inactive) Check the proper working of PCB sensor L
(optical sensor).
blocking and unblocking sensor UP of washer.
Mechanical Check belt.

failure Check the ascendant movement of the engine.
Check the flag is able to block sensor UP.
(0554) Sensing Check pins J8 of PCB controller and J1of PCB

Washer Header failure. sensor L of washer module. Then check
movement error electrical continuity pin to pin
(Down active)
Check the proper working of PCB sensor L
(optical sensor).
blocking and unblocking sensor down of
washer
Mechanical Check the belt

failure. Check the ascendant movement of the washer
header.
Check the flag is able to unblock sensor UP.
(0555) Home sensing Check pins on J8 of PCB controller and J1of PCB
Washer Header failure. sensor L of module washer. Then check
movement error electrical continuity pin to pin.
(Down inactive)
Check the proper working of PCB sensor L
(optical sensor).
97
blocking and unblocking sensor down of
washer
Mechanical Check belt.

failure. Check descending movement of the washer
header
Check the flag is able to block the sensor down.
FLUSHING PUMP
Description
(0571) HOME sensing Check pins on connector J1 PCB sensor

Washer Flushing Pump failure P and continuity with pins of PCB
initialization error (Home controller J31.
active) Check the proper working of PCB
sensor p (optical sensor).
Electrical failure Check the voltage on Power Supply
connector just at the moment of
initializing the washer Module
Check electrical contact between the

input connector of PCB Filter and the
Motor Terminals.
Mechanical Check the Flushing pump movement.
failure
0572) HOME sensing Check pins on connector J1 PCB
Washer Flushing Pump failure sensor P and the electrical contact with
initialization error (Home pins on J31 of PCB controller.
inactive)
Check the proper working of PCB

sensor p (optical sensor)
Mechanical Check the voltage on Power Supply

failure connector just at the moment of
Motor Terminals.
Mechanical Check the Flushing pump movement.
failure
98
(0573) Wiring failure. Check pins on connector J1 PCB sensor
Washer Flushing Pump P and continuity with pins of PCB
moving error (Home controllerJ31.
active) Mechanical Verify there’s no difficulty in the pump
failure. movement.
(0574) Wiring failure. Check pins on connector J1 PCB sensor

Washer Flushing Pump P and continuity with pins of PCB
moving error (Home controllerJ31.
inactive) Mechanical Verify there’s no difficulty in the pump
failure. movement.
(0575) Wiring failure or Check pins of connector J1 PCB sensor

Washer Flushing Pump sensing home P and continuity with pins of PCB
error (Home active) controllerJ31.
Electrical failure. Check the voltage on Power Supply


Motor Terminals.
Mechanical Verify there’s no difficulty in the pump

failure. movement. NOTE: less than two
seconds per cycle
(0576) HOME sensing Check pins of connector J1 PCB sensor

Washer Flushing Pump Failure P and continuity with pins of PCB
error (Home inactive) controllerJ31.
Electrical failure. Check the voltage on Power Supply
Motor Terminals.
failure. movement. NOTE: less than two
seconds per cycle
FILLING PUMP
Error ID Number Probable cause Possible Solution
and Description
99
(0581) HOME sensing Check pins on connector J1 PCB sensor P and
Washer Filling Failure continuity with pins of PCB controllerJ30.
Pump moving error
(Home active) Electrical Check the voltage on Power Supply
failure. connector. To do this, send the command
“washerIn A1” and “washerFill A1”. After that,
try measuring on Motor Terminals.
Verify the Time-Constant corresponding to
C100 y R219, It should be in about 4.7 seconds

failure movement.
(0582) Wiring failure or Check pins of connector J1 PCB sensor P and

Washer Filling sensing home continuity with pins of PCB controllerJ30.
Pump moving error
(Home inactive) Electrical Check the voltage on Power Supply
“washerIn A1” and “washerFill A1”. After that,
try measuring on Motor Terminals.

failure movement.
(0583) Wiring failure or Check pins of connector J1 PCB sensor P and

Pump error (Home
active) Electrical Check the voltage on Power Supply
“washerIn A1” and “washerFill A1”,
immediately try measuring on Motor Terminals.

failure movement.
(0584) Wiring failure or Check pins on connector J1 PCB sensor P and

Pump error (Home
inactive) Electrical failure Check the voltage on Power Supply
connector. To do this, send the command
“washerIn A1” and “washerFill A1”,
immediately try measuring on Motor Terminals.
100

failure. movement.
10.2 Log File

Besides the above table, there’s an extra tool. This is the log file.
For example, in order to find out which module is producing a failure, we should go to the
Log folder. To access this folder we should go to the “Maintenance” screen, then “Settings”
“Files” and find the path in the Log file folder.
101
Figure 10-2
Once the path has been found, minimize the program. Search the log file in Local Disk (the
one in that path). Once the folder has been found, search log.html files. These are
identified by year, month, and day (for example, the file corresponding to Tuesday, April
6th, 2004 will have the name 2004-04-06.log.html).
Once the file has been found, open it. We will have the following on display:
102
In order to locate the error message shown on the screen in the example, it is convenient to
start by the last transactions on the Serial port. We can even check if the same error has
been repeated in previous transactions. The message informs us about the moment the error
was produced, the process number and the kind of error. All this information will enable us
to find it on the screen.
We can also search for errors on the basis of autoanalyzer`s answer (Serial In) to computer
(PC). This search is done by Edition – Search this page (or else by ctrl+F). The number
code or the complete text of the command is entered and the searcher will start the search.
This file is a powerful tool for error search, as well as for an accurate diagnosis when facing
systematic or random failures.
All bidirectional messages for all the commands required by the computer (PC) and executed
by autoanalyzer, and all their responses, will be found in log.html.
Let us analyze the following message structure obtained from the log.html file. The
computer (PC) sends a command to initialize vertical movement of autoanalyzer’s Robot. We
will have the following message structure in log.html:
103
16:28:32.171 - Serial Out: probeInit A1
16:28:32.186 - Serial In: status A1 PC OK *#I-49,0 @00:12:15.808
16:28:32.639 - Serial In: probeCurPos A1 PC 0 *E0 iHl #O-49 @00:12:16.203
16:28:32.171 Serial Out is the command sent by the computer (PC) to autoanalyzer
number one (A1) to initialize the Robot’s vertical movement.
16:28:32.186 Serial In is the command sent by autoanalyzer number one (A1) to the
computer (PC) to be executed. Sending the following answer message, status OK without
any comments *, #I-49 which is the order number given to entries by the controller’s
meter. Finally, the time when the command was executed.
16:28:32.639 asynchronous answer to the command required and executed by

autoanalyzer.
Once the Robot’s vertical movement has been initialized, autoanalyzer sends the computer
(PC) the asynchronous answer to the required command. This is an indication that it has
been positioned in position 0 in relation to the Home sensor and there is no error E0. It is
also showing the state of sensors iHl; after that, the order number given to the exit by
meter #O-49and, finally, the time the command was executed.
Sensor state is very useful in order to establish a correlation with regard to mechanical
movements. The first letter, for example, tells us about the sensor, it shows abnormal
movement of the Sample/ Reagent probe. If there was a collision, letter i becomes I (capital
letter). By H it is indicating that the Home sensor is activated. When it is deactivated, it
becomes h. By l (small letter el) it indicates that the lever detector is deactivated. When it is
detecting liquid, it becomes L.
When one or several commands are queued and an error appears, these commands are
eliminated right away. Therefore, there is no answer for those commands. Let us look at the
following log.html of autoanalyzer’s starting sequence. The error message generates a Stop
alarm and is immediately shown by means of a message in the user’s interface.
14:36:28.889 - Serial Out: flushAll A1

14:36:28.905 - Serial Out: setQueue A1 0
14:36:28.920 - Serial Out: photoInit A1
14:36:28.936 - Serial In: queue A1 PC 0 *#O-12 @00:01:09.274
104
14:36:28.952 - Serial Out: probeInit A1
14:36:28.983 - Serial In: amplifier A1 PC slave does not answer @00:01:09.317
14:36:28.998 - Serial Out: probeArmInit A1
14:36:29.014 - Serial In: status A1 PC QUEUED *#I-15,0 @00:01:09.354
14:36:29.014 - Serial Out: probeGoFunnel A1
14:36:29.045 - Serial Out: srInit A1
14:36:29.061 - Serial Out: srGoReagentA A1 1
14:36:29.077 - Serial Out: syringeInit A1
14:36:29.092 - Serial Out: washerInit A1
14:36:29.108 - Serial Out: valveSet A1 probe
14:36:29.139 - Serial Out: reactionInit A1
14:36:29.436 - Serial In: probeCurPos A1 PC 0 *E0 iHl #O-14 @00:01:09.741
14:36:30.420 - Serial In: probeArmCurPos A1 PC 0 *E0 iH #O-15 @00:01:10.649
14:36:30.420 - Serial In: probeArmCurVal A1 PC Funnel @00:01:10.662
14:36:30.420 - Serial In: probeArmCurPos A1 PC 0 *E0 iH #O-16 @00:01:10.688
14:36:30.420 - Serial In: probeArmCurVal A1 PC Funnel @00:01:10.700
14:36:31.952 - Serial In: photoCurVal A1 PC 340 *P54 *E0 H #O-13 @00:01:12.235
14:36:33.373 - Serial In: srCurPos A1 PC 352 *E0 iHC #O-17 @00:01:13.650
14:36:33.373 - Serial In: srCurVal A1 PC ReagentA 1 @00:01:13.662
14:36:33.373 - Serial In: srCurPos A1 PC 352 *E0 iHC #O-18 @00:01:13.689
14:36:33.373 - Serial In: srCurVal A1 PC ReagentA 1 @00:01:13.702
14:36:33.592 - Serial In: washerCurVal A1 PC !error *P0 *E1 UD #O-20
@00:01:13.922
14:36:35.123 - Serial In: syringeCurPos A1 PC 0.000 *` #O-19 @00:01:15.443
14:36:35.123 - Serial In: valveCurVal A1 PC Probe *` #O-19 @00:01:15.457
According to the log.html the cuvette washer showed an error (see text in blue letters). The
computer sends a command to initialize the cuvette washer washerInit, autoanalyzer
receives the command and places it on the execution queue. It continues executing the
other required commands, until it receives the asynchronous answer with error
washerCurVal, corresponding to the washerInit command required by the computer (PC).
We find that position sensors up&down of the washer are both active at the same time. Let
us observe that the subsequent commandos (#21 y #22) to the one producing the error
(#20) were not executed, but #19 was completely executed, even after the error was
detected.
105
10.2.1 Detector Status and level sensor table
Module Command Status Description
Robot Vertical Position probeInit iHl Initializing vertical Mov.
Robot Horizontal Position probeArmInit iH Initializing horizontal Mov.
Reaction Tray ReactionInit ihw Initializing Reaction Tray
Sample-Reagent Tray srInit iH Initializing S-R Tray
Photometer Filter Wheel photoInit H Filter position synchronism
Washer Initialize Washer washerInit Ud Initializing washer
Activated Deact. Comment

Probe Impact I i I: probe impact, Stop alarm
Starting Position H h H: detected starting position
S/R Sensor L l L: detected sample and/or reagent level
Cuvette Washing W w W: the washer is not up
Filter Position H h H: filter position synchronism
Washer position U u U: washer outside cuvettes
Washer position D d D: cuvette washer down
down
Let us analyze the following failure message:
We search the log.html for possible failures.
106
By looking at log.html we can notice that one of the possible failures is the Robot. When we
initialize the arm we get the !error answer. The comment is *P300 *E1 and the sensor
state indicates that impact sensor, IHl is activated.
When there is no error, the letter is E=0. Letter P indicates the number of steps the
mechanism has performed. The following is an error list that may appear in autoanalyzer’s
responses and their meaning:
E1: movement cannot be initialized.

E2: probe impact
E3: home sensor not found
E4: movement verification error
E5: checking sensor not found
E6: level sensor does not activate
E7: washer is not up
E8: stopped due to lack of movement safety conditions
E9: Incorrect Probe Level Detection
E10: Temperature reading error
“debug” messages may appear which require additional information. They may be sent
either from the computer (PC) or from autoanalyzer
107
It is important to bear in mind the asynchronous answer table (see Section 11.4.1 of the
Technical Service Manual) to be able to interpret the responses sent by autoanalyzer to the
computer (PC).
10.3 Fast Test

The different modules can be quickly verified and Serial Port log can be visualized in the
Command Console at the same time, by means of this test. By means of the Command
Console we can execute commands to initialize, enter parameters to execute movements,
activate or deactivate the lamp, check heater or preheater temperature, or execute other
commands. Just select the command, give the parameter (if necessary) and, finally, execute.
To enter this test, go to the Maintenance menu, Communications and the Command
Console. The following image will be displayed on the User’s screen:
108
For identifying and solving problems, the user should be familiar with the theory of the
instrument operation, the operating procedures, the maintenance procedures, and the
fundamentals of the chemical test methods described in this Manual.
The primary responsibility of the operator in the resolution of problems falls into the
following categories:
- Preparation and storage of reagents

- Preparation and location of samples
- Basic operation of the instrument
- General operation of the program
- General maintenance and replacement of basic components
Problems can be divided into two major groups:
Chemical problems
Instrumental problems
If it becomes necessary to call the Technical Support in order to solve a chemical or

instrumental problem, have ready the following information:
Chemical problems:
- Serial number of the instrument

- Methods affected
- Description of the problem
- Expiration date for the reagents, calibrators and controls in use
- Absorbance information for the last run calibration
- Absorbance information for the last run blank
- Patient results affected
- Error messages reported by the instrument for the methods affected
Instrumental problems:
- Serial number of the instrument

- Description of the problem
- Error messages reported by the instrument
- Information about the last maintenance procedures run on the instrument
- Log file for the day
Having this information ready will help to solve the problem more quickly.
109
10.4 Chemical Problems
Chemical problems may appear with an error message along with the results, or by
unexpected results for the processed samples. They may appear in the following situations:
- Calibration errors
- Alarms with control or patient results
- Quality control results outside the defined ranges
- Unexpected patient results
From the results obtained from the method calibration, quality controls, and patient samples
tested, decide which of the following conditions best describe the problem encountered and
run the checks and actions associated with each case:
- High results
- Low results
- Erratic results
- Only one affected sample for all the methods
- Only one affected method for all the samples
10.4.1 High results
Observation Probable cause Action

Incubation temperature High cuvette tray temperature Check temperature offset
> 37ºC (heater and preheater).
Heater and preheater
operation.
Thermal switch (N/C)
High ambient temperature Reduce the ambient temp to
< 25 ºC
Low calibrator Incorrect preparation of the Use a calibrator reconstituted
absorbance results calibrator dilution correctly
Presence of bubbles or fibrin in Use a calibrator free of

the calibrator tube bubbles
High blank reagent Verify the blank reagent
absorbance
Insufficient calibrator volume Use a minimum volume of
200 µl
Samples concentrated Insufficient sample and control Use a minimum volume of
by evaporation volumes 200 µl
Inadequate sample and Use fresh samples and
control storage controls
Deteriorated reagent Inadequate reagent Prepare new reagent
preparation
110
Refilled reagent not mixed Mix the reagent gently and
well, or not checked verify the blank
Physical and/or chemical Prepare new reagent

deterioration of the reagent
Incorrect calibrator Calibrator setpoint is incorrect Verify calibrator setpoint
setpoint
Incorrect aspiration or Losses in the dilutor circuit Adjust connections and purge
dispensing of samples connections the dilutor
and reagents Obstruction of the TIP Purge the dilutor
Run a TIP cleaning
Bubbles in the tubing or dilutor Adjust connections and run a
TIP cleaning
Insufficient reagent Reagent volume less than 2 ml Refill the reagent bottle or
volume or bubbles into or more than 55 ml change it without any
the reagent bottle bubbles
Inadequate purge of the Purge the dilutor or wash
hydraulic system cuvettes
10.4.2 Low Results

Incubation temperature Low cuvette tray temperature Check temperature offset
< 37ºC (heater and preheater).
operation.
Low ambient temperature Increase the ambient temp to
> 15 ºC
High calibrator Incorrect preparation of the Use a calibrator reconstituted
absorbance results calibrator dilution correctly
Low blank reagent absorbance Verify the blank reagent

Inadequate samples Insufficient sample and control Use a minimum volume of
volumes 200 µl
Presence of bubbles or fibrin in Use samples free of bubbles
the sample tubes and/or fibrin
Absence of the sample in the Place the samples in the
assigned position correct positions
preparation
Refilled reagent not well Mix the reagent gently and
mixed, or not checked verify the blank
111
Physical and/or chemical Prepare new reagent and
deterioration of the reagent verify the blank
Incorrect calibrator Calibrator setpoint is incorrect Verify calibrator setpoint
setpoint
and reagents Obstruction of the TIP Purge the dilutor
Run a TIP cleaning
TIP cleaning
Reagent volume less than 2 ml Refill the reagent bottle or
or more than 55 ml change it without any
bubbles
10.4.3 Erratic Results

Incorrect information in Incorrect type of reaction Select the correct type of
the method chosen for each method reaction
configuration Method parameters configured Configure the parameters
incorrectly adequately
Incorrect calibration Calibrator concentration Configure the calibrator cc
configured incorrectly correctly
Inadequate samples Sample volumes less than 200 Use a minimum volume of
µl 200 µl
Presence of bubbles or fibrin in Use samples free of bubbles
the sample tubes and/or fibrin
Absence of the sample in the Place the samples in the
assigned position correct positions
Presence of air in the Incorrect purge of the dilutor Purge the dilutor
hydraulic system circuit
Incorrect purge of the washer Purge the washer
circuit
Insufficient washing solution Refill the washing solution
and purge the hydraulic
system completely
Reaction cuvettes Program session closed and Wash all the cuvettes
assigned incorrectly loss of the cuvettes current
state
Dirty cuvettes Maintenance program did not Run the remaining
finish completely maintenance operations
Contamination of the cuvettes Run a special wash cycle with
NaOH
0.2 N
112
Failure of the washing and/or Check Pump operation.
drying of the cuvettes Check washer header height.
Check dryer height.
Failure of the optical Burned lamp Replace the lamp
system Deteriorated cuvettes Replace the cuvettes
Inadequate calibration of the Calibrate the photometer
optical system Calibrate the cuvettes
Contamination of the Prolonged non-use of the Run a decontamination
circuits instrument process
Erratic incubation Erratic cuvette tray Check temperature offset
temperature temperature (heater and preheater).
operation.
and reagents Obstruction of the probe Purge the dilutor and run a
and/or of the pre-heater TIP cleaning cycle
TIP cleaning
Reagent volume less than 2 ml Refill the reagent bottle or
or more than 55 ml change it without any
bubbles
10.4.4 Only one affected sample for all of the methods

Incorrect sample Sample incorrectly positioned Place the sample in the
position correct position
Incorrect control Incorrect control range Configure the control ranges
configuration assignment correctly
Incorrect selection of Selection of methods incorrect Select the correct methods
methods for the type of sample for the type of sample
Incorrect preparation of Sample reconstituted with an Reconstitute a new vial
the sample inadequate volume or poorly correctly
homogenized
Sample diluted incorrectly Dilute the sample correctly
Inadequate sample Insufficient volume Use a minimum volume of
integrity 200 µl
Inadequate storage Use fresh or well preserved
samples
113
Presence of bubbles and/or Use a sample free of bubbles
fibrin in the sample tubes and fibrin
Presence of sample Use a new sample free of
interferences: hemolysis, interferences
jaundice, lipemic specimen,
turbidity
10.4.5 Only one affected method for all of the samples

Insufficient reagent Reagent volume less than 2 ml Refill the reagent bottle or
volume or bubbles into or more than 55 ml change it without any
the reagent bottle bubbles
Inadequate reagent Incorrect positioning of the Assign the reagent position
reagent in the tray correctly
Inadequate reagent container Use only the reagent bottles
designed for the instrument
Dirty reagent bottles Wash the reagent bottles
periodically
Insufficient reagent volume Refill the reagent bottle
preparation
Refilled reagent not Mix the reagent gently and
homogenized, or not verified verify the blank
Avoid foaming
Physical and/or chemical Prepare new reagent and
deterioration of the reagent verify the blank
Incorrect information in Incorrect type of reaction Select the correct type of
the configuration chosen for the method reaction
Method parameters configured Configure the parameters
incorrectly correctly
Incorrect assignment of the Configure the controls range
control range correctly
Inadequate calibration Calibrator setpoint is incorrect Verify calibrator setpoint
Incorrect preparation of the Use a calibrator reconstituted
calibrator correctly
Incorrect reagent blank Verify the blank reagent
absorbance
Incorrect calibrator Calibrate the method
absorbance
Message of a re-diluted Linearity configured incorrectly Configure the linearity
result or re-dilute correctly: a value between
manually with results 0.80 y 0.95
within the linear limit Initial consumption configured Configure the method’s initial
incorrectly consumption correctly
114
10.5 Instrumental Problems
Instrumental problems may appear with visible failures in its components or by malfunction
errors that show up in the program. Instrument problems may often be the cause of
observed reagent problems. (See point 10.4)
Based on these observations, instrumental problems can be grouped according to the

affected module or component of the instrument. Decide which of the following components
is probably affected and run the associated checks and actions in each case:
- Connections and supplies

- Hydraulic system
- Washer
- Dilutor
- Sample/Reagent probe
- Reaction cuvette tray
- Sample/Reagent tray
- Optical system
- Software
If this does not solve the problem, contact a Technical Support
10.5.1 Connections and supplies

Failure in the start up of Instrument disconnected Plug the cable into the power
the instrument source
Blown start up fuse Replace the fuses
No electricity from the power Reestablish the electricity
source
Damaged start-up button Replace switch.
Failure in the PC- Instrument turned off Turn on the instrument
instrument Instrument turned off and on Close and open the program
communication without closing the program again
Invalid serial port Close all open applications
that might be using the serial
port and re-open the
program
PC disconnected from the Connect the PC-instrument
instrument cable RS232C
115
10.5.2 Hydraulic system

Presence of bubbles/air Connections adjusted Adjust the connections
in the tubing incorrectly Purge the dilutor
Partial obstruction of the probe Purge the dilutor
Run a TIP cleaning cycle
PTFE on the dilutor worn out Contact Technical Support
Incorrect purge of the dilutor Purge the dilutor
circuit
Incorrect purge of the washer Wash cuvettes
circuit
Insufficient wash solution Refill the wash solution and
purge the dilutor five times
and wash cuvettes
Dripping peristaltic Worn out hose Replace the peristaltic pump
pump hose hose
Overflowing of the Drain hose bent or obstructed Straighten or un-obstruct the
probe wash station drain hose
Presence of water under
the instrument
10.5.3 Diluter

Presence of bubbles or Connections adjusted Adjust the connections
air in the dilutor syringe inadequately Purge the dilutor
Damaged tubing Contact Technical Support
Blocked probe Run a TIP cleaning cycle
Purge the dilutor
Dripping dilutor syringe PTFE on the dilutor worn out Contact Technical Support
Dilutor syringe body cracked Contact Technical Support
or worn out
Error message: Dilutor Reaction volumes configured Configure the method
error (after processing at > 500 µl correctly
a particular method)
10.5.4 Washer

Washer collision Dryer tips detached Contact Technical Support
Colored dryer tips Washer failure Contact Technical Support
Horizontal movement of Washer header adjusted Contact Technical Support
the washer head incorrectly
Dripping washer tips Washer failure Contact Technical Support
116
10.5.5 Sample/reagent probe

Dripping probe Blocked probe Run a TIP cleaning cycle
Purge the dilutor
Pre-heater failure Contact Technical Support
Faulty connections Contact Technical Support
Incomplete movement: Liquid detection failure Clean the probe tips with
the probe does not paper towel dipped in ethyl
lower to aspirate alcohol
samples and/or reagents Purge the dilutor
Poor quality water Use good-quality distilled
water
Error message: Probe Mono-reagent bottles in the Place the reagent bottles
collision (Collision of the position of the bi-reagent correctly
probe in its vertical bottles
movement) Blocked sample tube Unblock the sample tubes
Probe collision with the Failure of liquid detection Clean the probe tips with
bottom of a sample tube paper towel dipped in ethyl
or reagent bottle alcohol
Purge the dilutor
Error message: Presence of obstacles in the Remove obstacle or correct
Dispensing Arm Collision way of the dispensing arm the cause of the collision
(Collision of the probe in
its horizontal
movement)
Unusual noise with Presence of bubbles between Clean the probe tips with
upward movement the two ends of the probe paper towel dipped in ethyl
alcohol
Purge the dilutor
Damaged probe: Collision of the probe Contact Technical Support
aspiration tip and sensor
tip of the same length
Probe and its capillary Adhesion of remains of Clean the exterior of the
dirty samples and/or reagents probe with paper towel
dipped in ethyl alcohol
Purge the dilutor
117
10.5.6 Reaction Cuvettes Plate

Formation of crystals in Incomplete run of the wash Run an external wash and
the upper part of the program calibration of the cuvettes
cuvettes
Presence of water on Inadequate purge of the Purge the washer 5 times
the cuvette strips washer
Presence of bubbles in Insufficient washing solution Refill the washing solution
the cuvettes during the container and purge the
wash dilutor and washer five times
Air entering the tubing Check the connection of the
hoses to the washing solution
container
Wash cuvettes
Damaged/opaque Prolonged use Change the cuvettes and
cuvettes calibrate them
Cuvettes still dirty after Washer failure Contact Technical Support
washing
10.5.7 Sample/Reagent Tray

No refrigeration of the Refrigeration unit turned off Turn on unit
reagents Refrigeration system failure Contact a Technical Support
Presence of dark stains Fungal contamination Disinfect with 30% sodium
in the reagent tray hypochlorite for 30 minutes
Unusual noises Mechanical failures Contact Technical Support

Error message: S/R Mechanical failures Contact Technical Support
Collision or
Sample/reagent tray
collision
10.5.8 Optical system

Error message: Cover Cuvettes tray cover left open Replace cuvettes tray cover
open/Burned Lamp during the reading of the and restart the operation
reaction
Lamp burnt out Change the lamp
Lamp turned off Contact Technical Support
118
Error message: Cuvette Cuvettes tray cover left open Replace cuvette tray cover
Calibration ended with during the calibration and restart the calibration
errors
Damaged cuvettes Change the reaction cuvettes
Damaged filter Contact Technical Support
Washer failure Contact Technical Support
10.5.9 Software

Error message: Reaction reading cannot be 1) If the flag appears after
Processing error # taken in the specified time stop procedure, you do not
Process xxxxxxxxxxx (Time out) have to take any action. Flag
Retry/Cancel appears because of that.
Time Out. Incubation 2) If the flag appears at
time has expired. It will random time without any
be automatically reason, check data base size
repeated. and computer characteristics.
3) If the flag appears
repeated times in the same
methods check that methods
settings.
Results expressed as a Error in the calculation of the Verify methods settings,
Nan (not a number) calibration or the sample verify reagent and recalibrate
result the method
Error message: The Mechanical or communication Contact Technical Support

instrument cannot be failure
initialized
119
11 COMUNICATION PROTOCOL FOR TECHNICAL
SERVICE USE
11.1 Introduction
The autoanalyzer will be communicated to the PC through a serial port RS232C by means of
bidirectional messages whose structure is described as follows:
11.2 Message Structure

Commands between the PC and the autoanalyzer will have the following structure:
{Command} {SP} {For} [{SP} {Argument}] {\r}
Where the field {Command} is described here: {SP} is the space character (ASCII 32),
{For} is the destination name for the message (for ex: A1, A2, etc.), {Argument} is an
optional field that depends upon the command and {\r} is the return character (ASCII 13)
and corresponds to the end of the message.
Execution of a command starts when the PC sends a message to the Autoanalyzer

corresponding to a command (the command list is described in Command Description).
The autoanalyzer answers by sending an answer message where it reports the processing
given to the received command, as described in Answer Description. If the command
requires transmitting complementary information to the PC, it will afterwards send an
asynchronous response, as described in Asynchronous answer Description.
11.3 Command Description

The following is a description of the commands, grouped by module of the autoanalyzer.
11.3.1 Sample Probe

Description Command Alias Argument
Initialize vertical movement probeInit pbI No
Searching upper sensor probeOut pbOut No
Searching level sensor probeIn pbIn No
Decrease steps probeMoveIn pbMI uint steps
(optional)
Decrease steps not detecting level probeMoveInWithoutLevel pbMIWL uint steps
(optional)
Increase steps probeMoveOut pbMO uint steps
Starting horizontal movement probeArmInit pbAI No
Move steps to the left probeArmMoveClock pbAMC uint steps
Move steps to the right probeArmMoveCclock pbAMCc uint steps
Position on cuvettes for dispensing probeGoDispense pbGD No
120
Position on washing funnel probeGoFunnel pbGF No
Position on sample probeGoSample pbGS No
Position on reagent A probeGoReagentA pbGRA No
Position on reagent B probeGoReagentB pbGRB No
11.3.2 Reaction Tray

Initialize reaction tray reactionInit rI No
Cuvette to dispensing position reactionGoDispense rGD uint cuvette
Cuvette to photometer reactionGoPhoto rGP uint cuvette
Cuvettes forwards reactionForward rF uint cuvette
Cuvettes backwards reactionBackward rB uint cuvette
Advance steps reactionMoveForward rMF uint steps
Steps backwards reactionMoveBackward rMB uint steps
11.3.3 Sample-Reagent Tray

Initialize S-R Tray srInit srI No
Go to sample srGoSample srGS uint sample
Go to reagent A srGoReagentA srGRA uint reagent
Go to reagent B srGoReagentB srGRB uint reagent
Advance steps srMoveForward srMF int steps
Backward Steps srMoveBackward srMB int steps
Read sample ID Barcode srReadCode srRC uint sample
11.3.4 Pump
Initialize pump pumpInit pmI int steps
Advance steps pumpMoveForward pmMF int steps
Backward Steps pumpMoveBackward pmMB int steps
Pump pulse pumpPulse pmP int pulses
11.3.5 Heater
Set temperature heaterSet hS float Temp
Switch on heater heaterPowerOn hPOn No
Switch off heater heaterPowerOff hPOff No
Read temperature heaterRead hR No
121
11.3.6 Preheater
Set temperature preheaterSet prS float Temp
Switch on preheater preheaterPowerOn prPOn No
Switch off preheater preheaterPowerOff prPOff No
Read temperature preheaterRead prR No
11.3.7 Photometer
Initialization photoInit phI No
Go to filter photoSetFilter phSF int lambda
Read photoRead phR No
Switch on lamp lampHigh lH No
Switch off lamp lampLow lL No
11.3.8 Washer
Initialize washer washerInit wI No
Down washerIn wIn No
Up washerOut wOut No
Fill washerFill wFi int mseg
Flush washerFlush wF int mseg
Empty reaction washerFlushReaction wFR int mseg
Switch on vacuum pump washerVacuumOn wVon No
Switch off vacuum pump washerVacuumOff wVOff No
11.3.9 Diluter
Initialize syringe syringeInit sI No
Collect (relative)volume syringeAspirate sA float volume uint
veloc
Dispense(relative)volume syringeDispense sD float volume uint
veloc
Fix (absolute) volume syringeSet sS float volume uint
veloc
Initialize valve valveInit vI No
Move valve to pump or syringe valveSet vS Probe / Pump /
ByPass
122
11.3.10 Miscellaneous
Select queue setQueue -- uint queue
Delete all queues flushAll -- No
Delete selected queue flush -- No
Calibrate photometer calibratePhoto cP No
Calibrate cuvette calibrateCuvette cC No
Read container level vesselStatus -- No
Read Firmware versions firmwareVersionsRead -- No
Delete EEPROM eepromClear -- No
Delete cuvette absorbances from eepromClearAbs -- No
EEPROM
Write EEPROM eepromWrite -- uint Address
{byte/int/
uint/long/
float/string} Data
Read EEPROM eepromRead -- uint Address
Write a byte for EEPROM eepromWriteByte -- uint Address
Read a byte from EEPROM eepromReadByte -- uint Address
Write EEPROM version eepromVersionWrite -- uint Address
Read EEPROM version eepromVersionRead -- uint Address
Wait Delay -- uint mseg
Send a non executable message debugMessage -- Unspecified
amplifier disable disableVars -- A
Disabling Movement Reaction Tray R
Run sequence sequenceRun -- No
Sequence start marker sequenceStart -- No
Mixing Reaction cuvetteContentMixing cCM
Reset maintenance counter resetLevel -- uint Level
Enable reset counters resetLevelEnable -- 1/0
System Status Report systemStatus -- No
The kinds of variable are:

byte: integer, 8 bits, no sign.
int: integer, 16 bits with a sign.
uint: integer, 16 bits no sign.
long: integer, 32 bits a sign.
float: floating point.
string: character chain.
A command for the probe until detecting level would be:

probeIn PC A1\r
123
11.4 Synchronous Answer Description
Once it has received the command, the Autoanalyzer sends an answer message to the PC.
The word indicating that it is an answer is status and the argument will reflect the result of
the processing performed by the autoanalyzer’s main controller with the command. Possible
arguments are:
Argument Description
OK The command was correctly received and will be executed
SYNTAX the command received has a syntax mistake and must be resent by
the PC
BUSY The Autoanalyzer is busy and cannot execute the command
received, which must be resent by the PC
QUEUED The command received cannot be immediately executed by the
Autoanalyzer, but has been placed in the queue
UNKNOWN the command received is unknown by the Autoanalyzer
The Autoanalyzer’s answer to the command in the previous section would be:
status A1 PC OK\r
11.5 Asynchronous Answer Description

If the commands involve a change in the Autoanalyzer’s state, (for ex. Tray or arm
movements, temperature reading, etc.) the Autoanalyzer will notify the PC in an
asynchronous way once the command has finished. This notice will exist, no matter whether
the change of state is actually produced (for ex.: move the tray). If the change of state
affects several variables, the Autoanalyzer will send the PC an asynchronous answer for each
affected variable (for ex.: the command reactionMoveBackward will generate the
responses reactionCurPos, reactionCurDispense and reactionCurPhoto). In these
cases, the execution time will only be sent in the first answer. The following are the
responses corresponding to the commands involving changes in the Autoanalyzer’s state:
Command Answer Argument

probeInit probeCurPos int steps
probeOut
probeMoveIn
probeMoveInWithoutLevel
probeMoveOut
probeIn probeCurPos int steps
reagentAsingleCurVol (2) float mL
reagentAdoubleCurVol (2) float mL
reagentBCurVol (3) float mL
noSampleDetected (4) int position
probeArmInit probeArmCurPos int steps
124
probeArmMoveClock probeArmCurVal Cuvette /
probeArmMoveCclock Funnel /
probeGoDispense Sample /
probeGoFunnel ReagentA /
probeGoSample ReagentB / None
probeGoReagentA
probeGoReagentB
reactionInit reactionCurPos int steps
reactionGoDispense reactionCurDispense int cuvette / 0
reactionGoPhoto reactionCurPhoto int cuvette / 0
reactionForward
reactionBackward
reactionMoveForward
reactionMoveBackward
srInit srCurPos int steps
srGoSample srCurVal Sample /
srGoReagentA ReagentA /
srGoReagentB ReagentB / None
srMoveForward int position / 0
srMoveBackward
srReadCode srCurCode string Bar Code
pumpMoveForward pumpRelMove int steps
pumpMoveBackward
pumpPulse
heaterRead heaterCurVal float Temp
heaterSet heaterCurSet float Temp
heaterPowerOn heater On / Off
heaterPowerOff
preheaterRead preheaterCurVal float Temp
preheaterSet preheaterCurSet float Temp
preheaterPowerOn preheater On / Off
preheaterPowerOff
photoInit photoCurVal Black / int lambda
photoSetFilter / None
photoRead photoCurRead long int sample
long int reference
lampHigh lamp High / Low
lampLow
washerInit washerCurVal Out / In / None
washerOut
washerIn
washerFill washerFilled 0% / 100%
washerFlush
washerFlushReaction
125
washerVacuumOn washerVacuum On / Off
washerVacuumOff
syringeInit syringeCurPos float volume
valveInit valveCurVal Probe / Pump /
ByPass
syringeAspirate syringeCurPos float volume
syringeDispense
syringeSet
valveSet valveCurVal Probe / Pump /
ByPass
setQueue queue uint queue
calibratePhoto photoCalibration OK
calibrateCuvette cuvetteCalibration OK
cuvetteContentMixing cuvetteContentMixed OK
vesselStatus waterVessel XX%
residuesVessel
concentratedResiduesVessel
systemStatus analyzerCycles long Cycles
analyzerHours long Hours
serviceLevel1 long Cycles
lampHours long Hours
eepromClear eepromClear OK
eepromClearAbs eepromClearAbs OK
eepromWrite eepromWrite OK
eepromWriteByte
eepromRead eepromRead {byte/int/uint/
eepromReadByte long/float} Data
eepromVersionWrite eepromVersionWrite OK
eepromVersionRead eepromVersion string version
resetLevel resetLevel OK
resetLevelEnable resetLevel Enable / Disable
eepromReset eepromReset OK
126
firmwareVersionsRead mainVersion string version string
eepromVersion version string
serialNumber version string
verticalVersion version string
horizontalVersion version string
reactionVersion version string
sampleReagentVersion version string
filterWheelVersion version string
washerVersion version string
pumpVersion version string
amplifierVersion version string
heaterVersion version string
preheaterVersion version string
diluterVersion version
(2)
Answer sent when the arm is positioned over reagent mouth A.
(3)
Answer sent when the arm is positioned over reagent mouth B.
(4)
Answer sent if no liquid level detection when the arm is positioned on the sample tube or
dispensed.
After the arguments described, there can be a comment field that will be identified by the
character ‘*’ (asterix: ASCII 42).
Finally, the autoanalyzer will inform the PC about the time when the required command was
completed (measured from the moment the equipment was switched on). This field will be
identified by the character ‘@’ (ASCII 64) and it will have the format h:m:s where h is hour,
m is the minutes and s is the seconds passed (expressed with three decimals).
If it were necessary, the Autoanalyzer could send “debug” messages by means of the
debugMessage response, which will be added after the asynchronous answer requiring
additional information.
There may happen that the PC starts sending a command while the Autoanalizador is
delivering an asynchronous response. In that case, the Autoanalyzer will finish sending the
asynchronous answer and it will deliver the status message afterwards.
11.6 EEPROM version 1.06 address
For reasons of security from the version of main 1,05, for the writing of eeprom a
previous step is due to make. In the console of commandos, in the Terminal line you have to
write:
eepromWriteEnable A1 1
127
11.6.1 Main Controller
Variable Address Type
Serial number 1 string
EEprom version 8176 string
11.6.2 Sample Probe Vertical Movement

Cuvette Base 16 int
Funnel Base 18 int
Sample tube Base 20 int
Reagent A container Base 22 int
Reagent B container Base 24 int
Starting Frequency 26 int
Maximum Frequency 28 int
Step Repetition 30 byte
Cuvette Base/ Mixing 32 int
11.6.3 Sample Probe Horizontal Movement

Dispensing 48 int
Funnel 50 int
Samples 52 int
Reagent A 54 int
Reagent B 56 int
Starting frequency 58 int
Maximum frequency 60 int
Step repetition 62 byte
11.6.4 Reaction Tray

Steps per cuvette 80 int
Cuvette 1 dispensing Offset 82 int
Cuvette 1 photometer Offset 84 int
Automatic movement 91 Byte
11.6.5 Sample-Reagent Tray

128
Number of sample tubes 112 int
Steps per sample tube 114 int
Sample tube 1 Offset 116 int
Number of reagent containers 118 int
Steps per reagent container 120 int
Reagent A 1 Offset 122 int
Reagent B 1 Offset 124 int
Barcode sample tube 1 Offset 131 int
11.6.6 Filter Wheel

Steps per filter 144 float
Offset filter 1 148 int
Reading Delay 150 int
Optical path 152 float
Sample channel reading threshold 161 long
Reference channel reading threshold 164 long
Absorbance cuvettes threshold , warning. 167 Long
Absorbance cuvettes threshold , error. 171 Long
Gain threshold 175 Byte
11.6.7 Dilutor
Total volume steps 176 int
Syringe Volume 178 int
Ramp 184 byte
11.6.8 Pump
129
Pump steps per pulse 213 int
11.6.9 Heater
Proportional gain 240 int
Integral gain 242 int
Derivative gain 244 int
Oversampling 246 byte
Automatic switching 247 byte
Proportional limit 248 int
Integral limit 250 int
Derivative limit 252 int
Temperature 254 float
Temperature Offset 256 float
11.6.10 Preheater
Proportional gain 272 int
Integral gain 274 int
Derivative gain 276 int
Oversampling 278 byte
Automatic switching 279 byte
Proportional limit 280 int
Integral limit 282 int
Derivative limit 284 int
Temperature 286 float
Temperature Offset 288 float
11.6.11 Washer
Filling Time 304 int
Flushing Time 306 int
Flushing Prime Time 308 int
Starting Frequency 310 int
Maximum Frequency 312 int
Cuvette Base 315 byte
130
11.6.12 Containers
Zero washing container (1) 336 int
Maximum washing container (1) 338 int
Washing container volume (1) 340 byte
Zero waste container (2) 341 int
Maximum waste container (2) 343 int
Waste container volume (2) 345 byte
Zero probe washing container (3) 346 int
Maximum probe washing container (3) 348 int
Probe washing container volume (3) 350 byte
(1)
Reported as waterVessel in the related asynchronous answer
(2)
Reported as residuesVessel in the related asynchronous answer
(3)
Reported as concentratedResiduesVessel in the related asynchronous answer
11.6.13 Sample Barcode Reader

Reader Enabled 368 byte
Code Length 369 int
11.6.14 Filters
Filter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Wavelength 512 544 576 608 640 672 704 736 768 800 832 864 int
Sample gain 514 546 578 610 642 674 706 738 770 802 834 866 byte
Ref. gain 515 547 579 611 643 675 707 739 771 803 835 867 byte
Log I0 516 548 580 612 644 676 708 740 772 804 836 868 float
Sample Blank 520 552 584 616 648 680 712 744 776 808 840 872 long
Ref. Blank 523 555 587 619 651 683 715 747 779 811 843 875 long
Zero Sample 526 558 590 622 654 686 718 750 782 814 846 878 long
Zero Ref. 529 561 593 625 657 689 721 753 785 817 849 881 long
11.6.15 Cuvette absorbances

Filter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Cuv. 1 2048 2052 2056 2060 2064 2068 2072 2076 2080 2084 2088 2092 float
Cuv. 2 2100 2104 2108 2112 2116 2120 2124 2128 2132 2136 2140 2144 float
Cuv. 100 7196 7200 7204 7208 7212 7216 7220 7224 7228 7232 7236 7240 float
131
The formula to calculate the corresponding EEPROM Address for a cuvettes absorbance at a
certain wavelength is:
(CUVETTE NUMBER - 1) * 4 * 13 + (FILTER NUMBER - 1) * 4 + 2048
Miscellaneous
Hardware message enabling 400 int
Threshold reagent detection 403 int
Quantities stored of working hours. 404 long
Quantities stored of lamp working hours. 408 int
Quantities stored of cycles or testing. 410 long
Hours assigned (xh) 414 int
Cycles assigned(xc) 416 long
Multiplier for level 2 (N) 420 Byte
Multiplier for level 3 (M) 421 Byte
Service level1 422 long
Service level 2 426 long
Service level 3 430 long
Service express by hours 434 long
Frequency of message 439 Byte
Offset Level1 440 long
132
12 VALIDATIONS
By clicking on Maintenance and selecting Validations, several validation tests are
displayed which are used to control how the components of the instrument are working. The
spectrophotometer, the dilutor and the cuvette washer are controlled through these tests.
Each user can create an internal quality control program for their instrument by using these
tests.
Warning: A Special Washing cycle with Sodium Hydroxide 0.2 N is recommended before
performing the Validation Tests
Figure 12-1
12.1 Stray Light
Stray light is any electromagnetic radiation of a different wavelength from that of the
selected wavelength.
This test is based on the absorbance measurement of a Sodium Nitrite solution. The
solutions of this substance absorb all wavelength lower than 390 nm.
Necessary materials: Sodium Nitrite Solution 50 g/l
Procedure:
1. Dispense 300 µl of the solution in cuvette 1, or in any cuvette that you indicate on
the screen.
2. Wait for 5 minutes to reach thermal stability of the solution in the cuvette
3. Select Maintenance  Validations  Stray Light OK  Filter  OK
4. The instrument reads the abs. at 340 nm.
5. Perform a duplicate reading.
133
Acceptable stray light: Abs. Higher than 3 A.U.
Figure 12-2
Figure 12-3
12.2 Photometer Precision
Photometric precision is the measurement of the dispersion of absorbance measurements

around the mean and it is expressed as a variation coefficient. This measurement is always
taken in the same cuvette.
Necessary materials: Copper Sulfate Solution 30 g/l in Sulfuric Acid 0.45 N
Procedure:
1. Dispense 300 µl of the solution in cuvette 2, or in any cuvette that you indicate on
the screen.
2. Wait for 5 minutes to reach thermal stability of the solution in the cuvette.
3. Select Maintenance  Validations  Photometer Precision  OK  Filter 
OK
4. The instrument takes 30 correlative readings of the solution at 650 nm, reporting the
values in a Levy Jennings plot with the absorbance units AU, the mean and the
coefficient of variation CV% for this data.
5. Perform a duplicate run.
134
Acceptable photometric precision: CV% lower than 1%
Figure 12-4
Figure 12-5
12.3 Photometric Accuracy
Photometric accuracy is the similarity between the absorbance unit and the real
absorbance of a specific certified solution measured using reference standards.
The error while reading the absorbance of this solution against the certified value is called
photometric inaccuracy.
Necessary materials: 2 solutions of Potassium Dichromate in Perchloric Acid 0.001 N of

different concentration and with known and certified absorbance, measured using NIST
Reference Standards Certificates (National Institute of Standards and Technology).
Procedure:
1. Dispense 300 µl of the solution A in cuvette 3, or in any cuvette that you indicate on
the screen (Figure 12-30)
2. Dispense 300 µl of the solution B in cuvette 4, or in any cuvette that you indicate on
the screen
135
3. Wait for 5 minutes to reach thermal stability of the solutions in the cuvette
4. Select Maintenance  Validations  Photometric Accuracy  OK  OK
Filter  OK
5. The instrument takes the readings of both solutions at 340 nm, reporting the value in
absorbance units AU.
6. Perform duplicate reading.
7. Calculate the % of photometric inaccuracy according to the following formula:
% Photometric inaccuracy = [measured abs – reference abs] x 100

reference abs.
Acceptable photometric inaccuracy: lower than 5%
Figure 12-6
Figure 12-7
Figure 12-8
136
12.4 Photometric Linearity
Photometric linearity means the photometric capacity to make absorbance readings

proportional to concentration changes for solutions of increasing concentrations of a
substance which follows Beer’s law.
Necessary materials: Potassium Dichromate solutions in Perchloric Acid 0.001 N of increasing

concentrations and known and certified absorbance measured using NIST Reference
Standards Certificates (National Institute of Standards and Technology). Example: 25, 50,
100 and 200 mg/l (solutions A, B, C and D respectively).
Procedure:
1. Dispense 300 µl of solution A in cuvette 5, or in any cuvette that you indicate on the
screen
2. Dispense 300 µl of solution B in cuvette 6, or in any cuvette that you indicate on the
screen
3. Dispense 300 µl of solution C in cuvette 7, or in any cuvette that you indicate on the
screen
4. Dispense 300 µl of solution D in cuvette 8, or in any cuvette that you indicate on the
screen
5. Wait for 5 minutes to reach thermal stability of the solutions in the cuvette.
6. Select Maintenance  Validations  Photometric Linearity  OK  OK 
OK  OK  Filter  OK
7. The instrument takes the reading of four solutions at 340 nm, informing the values in
absorbance units AU.
8. Perform a duplicate reading.
9. With the results obtained, make a graph of absorbances found (y) in relation to
reference absorbances (x) and calculate the correlation coefficient by linear
regression.
Accepted Photometric Linearity: Correlation Coefficient higher

than 0.9995
Figure 12-9
137
Figure 12-10
Figure 12-11
Figure 12-12
Figure 12-13
12.5 Diluter Precision
This test allows you to determine volume precision of the diluter hydraulic system by making
repeated process of the same sample at 340 nm.
Necessary materials:
Sample solution: Potassium Dichromate solution 5g/l in Perchloric Acid 0.001 N
138
Reagent solution: Potassium Dichromate solution 0.25 g/l in Washing Solution (Triton X-100
diluted). It is prepared by diluting 5 ml of Sample Solution in one liter of Washing Solution or
contact Technical Support for a Redi-Check kit which will contain required solutions.
Procedure:
1. Set a new method with the parameters shown in Figure below Methods  Settings
2. Place the Sample Solution in a sample tube and the Reagent Solution in a reagent
bottle and assign a position in the reagent tray.
4. Perform the Dilutor Precision test. Maintenance  Validations  Dilutor
Precision  select the method Dichromate Test  assign a position to the
Sample Solution: 1 define the number of replicates to be made, minimum 10 
OK
5. Perform the test in duplicate
Acceptable Dilutor Precision: CV% less than 1.5
Note: this test can also be used to validate methods in use, determining each test CV% at
different concentration values.
Figure 12-14
ADAPTATION
GENERAL SPECIALS
Name Dichromate Time for Reagent blank 60
Type End Point R. Blank Interval between blanks 72
Main Wavelength 340 Incubation Time 60
Bichrom. Wavelength 700 Repetition 0
Units -- Linear Limit 20
Decimals 4
139
Sample Vol. 6 ADVANCED
R1 Vol. 300 Initial Air Gap 2
R2 Vol. 0 Initial gap Speed 500
Time to Disp R2 0 Gap Reagent/Sample 2
Min. Abs 0 Reagent/Sample Gap Speed 500
Max. Abs 2 R1+ Sample Dispensing Speed 2500
Verification time 16 R2 Dispensing Speed 2500
FACTOR R1 Aspiration Speed 2000
Decreasing method No R2 Aspiration Speed 2000
Factor Yes/ 1 Dilution with Sample
Calibrator No Minimum sample volume 2
Interpolation Linear Sample aspiration Speed 500
Figure 12-15
140
13 DIAGRAMS IDENTIFYING PRINTED CIRCUITS
The Printed Circuit will be identified by a fantasy name (related with its function) followed by
letter r and the revision number, which will be made up of 2 parts: the main revision
indicator and the secondary revision indicator, separated by a full stop.
The main revision indicator will be modified when a modification affecting its function, size,
etc is introduced to the printing, representing an important change in its functions or
geometry.
The secondary revision indicator will be modified when a minor change, like a change of its
components, footprints, component reordering, etc, is introduced to the printing.
The resulting format will be NAME rX.Y.
The file related with the printed circuit will have the format NAME rXY.pcb
The electrical scheme corresponding to the printed circuit will have, besides, an electrical
scheme revision indicator which will be modified with the changes in the scheme not
involving changes in the printed circuit, for example changes in the value of its components.
Revision format will be X.Y.Z, and the file name will be NAME rXYZ.dsn.
141
13.1 Electrical and electronic scheme
142
InCCA Service Manual – SM130401 143
13.2 Mechanical scheme

13.3 Esquema Hidráulico

14 SPARE PARTS
Código Description Cantidad
FS0001 Single mouth bottle 40
FD0001 Double mouth bottle 40
TM0001 13 mm Tube 100
TF0001 Caps for single and double mouth bottles 120
LP0001 Lamp 1
ST0001 Strips with 10 cuvettes each 10
FU0001 4 A Fuse 2
JG0002 500µl Syringe (model 2) 1
JGT002 500µl Syringe Teflon (model 2) 1
DI0002 Diluter (model 2) 1
VAL002 Valve (model 2) 1
TB0001 Kit x 2 peristaltic pumpTubings 1
TB0002 Diluter - Pump Tubing 1
TB0003 Head - Diluter Tubing 1
TB0004 Vessel - Peristaltic Pump Tubing 1
TB0005 Vessel - Washer Pump Tubing 1

4x70cm / 4x30cm
TBDP06 Washer Head Tubings (Diaphragm-Piston) 2x35cm
TBP015 Washer Head Tubings 15 mts.

TB0007 Bottles Volume Tubings 3
TB0008 Waste Tubings 10x6mm. 1
TB0009 Waste Tubings 3x6mm. 1
BDE020 Waste Bottle x 20 L 1
BSL020 Wash Solution Bottle x 20 L 1
CDE020 Connector for Waste Bottle 1
CSL020 20L Wash Solution Bottle Connector 1
AJ0001 Probe 1
MCA001 Probe Header Module 1
MPR001 Preheater Module 1
ARC001 Probe Header Wiring 1
CP0001 Peristaltic Pump 1
MCW001 Washer Header Module 1
CH0001 Union NF ¼-28 x 5/8” 1
CH0002 Tubing - Tubing Connector 1
CH0003 Tubing - Union Connector 1

PS0001 15VDC Power Supply 1
PS0002 24VDC Power Supply 1
PS0003 ±15 VDC Power Supply 1
SM0001 770 Step Motor 1
SM0002 807 Step Motor 1
MC0001 DC Motor 1
PG0001 Rubber foot 5
TP0001 MXL x 16 Pulley 1
TC0001 MXL x 130 Belt 1
TP0002 XL x 16 Pulley 1
TC0002 XL x 140 Belt 1
TC0003 XL x 165 Belt 1
TC0204 Diluter Belt (model 2) 1
PP0001 Peltier Module 1
CO0001 Cooler 1
VE0001 92 mm Fan 1
VE0002 80 mm Fan 1
IF0340 Interferential Filter 340 nm 1

LE0001 Plain-Convex lens BK7 1
BD0001 Diaphragm Pump 1
BD0002 Diaphragm Pump 1
FV0001 Emptying circuit Filters 6
CV0002 Check Valve-Duckbill 1
CV0003 Check Valve-Membrane 1
PAS122 Assembled Board Amplifier r122 (Sample) 1
PAR122 Assembled Board Amplifier r122 (Reference) 1
PBR121 Assembled Board Brush r121 1
PCO193 Assembled Board Controller r193 1
PCL124 Assembled Board Cooler r124 1
PHE162 Assembled Board Heater r162 1

PPR122 Assembled Board Preheater r122 1
PRE131 Assembled Board Regulator r131 1
PSF111 Assembled Board Sensor F r111 1
PSL111 Assembled Board SensorL r111 1
PSP121 Assembled Board SensorP r121 1
PSH121 Assembled Board SensorR r121 (Horizontal) 1
PSV121 Assembled Board SensorR r121 (Vertical) 1
PFI112 Assembled Board Filter r112 1
FCS001 Funnel (Top Set) 1
TSR002 SR Tray Center Top Cover 1
APS001 Tubes Top Ring 1
APS002 Tubes Top Ring (White) 1
APS003 Tubes Top Ring (Gray) 1
CU0001 OEM Cover 1
MBV001 Flushing Pump Module (Piston) 1
MBV002 Flushing Pump Module (Diaphragm) 1
MBL001 Filling Pump Module 1
EV0001 Electrovalve 1
PBP001 Pistons for piston pump 4
CBP001 Piston Pump connectors 8

MBP001 Piston pump Manifold 1
MBD002 Diaphragm pump Manifold 1
OBT001 H shutter 2
MBR001 Membrane 1
PT0001 Tube holder 10

Service Manual: April 2013

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SERVICE MANUAL

InCCA Service Manual – MS130401

1.1 UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS .................................................................................................................. 1

2 INSTRUMENT INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS ............................................................................ 5

2.1 ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENT ................................................................................................................... 5

3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................ 10

3.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................................................... 10

4 GENERAL FUNCTIONS ...................................................................................................................... 14

4.1 MAIN PARTS OR MODULES ................................................................................................................. 14

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

5 BASIC OPERATIONS ......................................................................................................................... 21

5.1 OPERATION FROM A TERMINAL PROGRAM............................................................................................. 21

6 DIRECTIONS FOR ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING ..................................................................... 26

6.1 DISASSEMBLING THE CABINET ............................................................................................................. 26

7 MOVEMENT ADJUSTMENT SEQUENCE FOR EACH MODULE ............................................................ 33

7.1 REACTION TRAY DISPENSING OFFSET CALIBRATION ................................................................................. 33

8 PARTS REPLACEMENTS .................................................................................................................... 42

8.1 LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT ................................................................................................................. 42

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

9 MAINTENANCE PROGRAM .............................................................................................................. 56

9.1 DAILY MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................................ 56

ALARMS GENERATED BY COUNTERS .................................................................................................. 59

9.4.1 ENABLING OF COUNTERS........................................................................................................... 61

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

10.1 MALFUNCTION PROBLEMS DISPLAYED ON THE SCREEN ........................................................................... 72

11 COMUNICATION PROTOCOL FOR TECHNICAL SERVICE USE ......................................................... 120

11.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................ 120

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

12 VALIDATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 133

12.1 STRAY LIGHT ............................................................................................................................... 133

13 DIAGRAMS IDENTIFYING PRINTED CIRCUITS ............................................................................... 141

13.1 ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC SCHEME .............................................................................................. 142

14 SPARE PARTS ............................................................................................................................. 192

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

2) This instrument is Class 1, Type b, IPX0.

3) The instrument must be used by trained personnel

5) The instrument must be connected to a supply line according to current national

7) After switching on the instrument, wait 10 minutes before beginning

8) After powering off, wait at least 20 seconds before restarting.

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

Keep lids closed when the instrument is working.

Do not look straight at barcode detector light beams.

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

The use of controls, as indicated by good laboratory practices, is also recommended.

Carry out the maintenance plan as indicated in this manual.

Read all warning messages.

Symbols used in the manual and the instrument

Consult instructions for use

“in vitro” diagnostics device

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

Warning: This warranty only covers defective materials or manufacturing defects,

WARRANTY SERVICE: Without charge at manufacturer. Otherwise, transport and traveling

MANUFACTURER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE INSTRUMENTS WITHOUT

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

Warning: Unpacking shall be carried out by trained personnel. Carefully

1.1 Unpacking instructions

InCCA Service Manual – MS101115

NOTE: Instrument remains fastened to the bottom.

InCCA Service Manual – SM130401

Unscrew the four screws located on the sides.

InCCA Service Manual – SM130401

Screws are placed in this way:

InCCA Service Manual – SM130401