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Premier Hb9210TM Boronate Affinity | 09-00-0001 | 11-00-0001 | Revision 23 

HAEMOGLOBINS SYSTEMS DIVISION 

Operator’s Manual 
 
IVD. FOR IN VITRO DIAGNOSTIC USE ONLY 
CAUTION: Before using the Premier Hb9210TM, please become familiar with all the 
instructions in this manual. 
Serial Number 
_________________________________________ 

Proprietary Information 
Software  programs  are  protected  by  copyright.  All  rights  are  reserved.  This  software  was 
developed  solely  for  use  with  intended  equipment  and  for  “in  vitro”  diagnostic  applications  as 
specified  in  the  operating  instructions.  All  operating  instructions  must  be  followed.  Copying  or 
other  reproduction  of  the  program  is  prohibited  without  the  prior  written  consent  of  Trinity 
Biotech. 
Applications for Assay of variant haemoglobins, glycated haemoglobins and other proteins are 
covered by one or more of the following US Patents: 
5,843,788 5,719,053 6,020,203 5,801,053 9,164,115 
Copyright © 2017 
Contact addresses: 
Support: 
US/Canada/Puerto Rico Customers: Trinity Biotech USA 2823 Girts Road Jamestown, NY 14701 Tel: 
1-800-325-3424 www.trinitybiotech.com technicalsupport@trinityusa.com 
International Customers: Trinity Biotech IDA Business Park Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland Tel: + 353 1 276 9898 Fax: 
+ 353 1 276 9888 www.trinitybiotech.com haemoglobins.techsupport@trinitybiotech.com 
 
1. Site Preparation 
2. Introduction & System Description 
3. Principles of Operation 
4. Preparation for Operation 
5. Hardware Components 
6. Software & Operation 
7. Results & Interpretation 
8. Operator Maintenance 
9. Operator Troubleshooting 
10. Data Transmission 
TLA Appendix 
 
Expanded Table of Contents 
Chapter 1: Site Preparation 
1.1 Introduction 1 1.2 System Description 1 1.3 System Requirements 1 1.3.1 Environmental 
Requirements 1 1.3.2 Electrical Requirements 1 1.4 Installation 2 1.4.1 Components Transport and 
Storage Prior to Installation 2 1.4.2 Safe Lifting Technique 3 1.4.3 Instrument Installation Warnings 3 1.5 
Important Symbols 4 1.6 Inspection 5 1.7 Important Safety Instructions 5 

Chapter 2: Introduction & System Description 


2.1  Introduction  1  2.2  Features  2  2.3  Specifications  3  2.4  CPU  Specifications  3  2.5  Intended  Use  4  2.6 
Premier Hb9210TM Certification 4 2.7 510k Listing 4 2.8 CE Mark 4 

Chapter3: Principles of Operation 


3.1 Clinical Significance of HbA1c 1 3.2 Principles of Analysis 1 3.3 Merits of the Assay 3 3.3.1 
Boronate Affinity HbA1c Assay 3 3.3.2 Premier Hb9210TM 3 3.3.3 Glycated Haemoglobin Reporting 
Units 3 3.3.4 Expected Values 4 3.3.5 HbA1c Accuracy 4 3.3.6 HbA1c Linearity/Measurable Range 5 
3.3.7 HbA1c Analytical Specificity 5 3.3.8 HbA1c Carryover 6 3.3.9 HbA1c Matrix Effects – Collection 
Methods and Anticoagulants 7 3.3.10 HbA1c Matrix Effects – Frozen and non-Frozen Samples 7 3.3.11 
HbA1c Precision 8 3.4 Chapter References 10 Appendix A - Multicentre Evaluation of the Premier 
Hb9210TM HbA1c Analyser 11 
 
Chapter 4: Preparation for Operation 
4.1 Test components 1 4.2 Reagent Use and Storage 3 4.3 Preparation of Haemoglobin HbA1c 
Calibrators and Controls 4 4.3.1 Trinity Biotech Haemoglobin HbA1c Calibrators 4 4.3.2 Trinity Biotech 
Haemoglobin HbA1c Controls 4 4.4 Column Use and Storage 4 4.4.1 General Column Information 4 
4.4.2 Column Storage 5 4.4.3 Column Installation 5 4.4.4 Column Use 5 4.4.5 Summary 6 4.5 Specimen 
Requirements 6 4.5.1 Collection 6 4.5.2 Patient Sample Storage Stability 6 4.5.3 Premier Hb9210TM 
Sample Storage Stability Study 6 4.5.4 Anaemic, Normal, pRBC and Washed RBC Sample Dilutions 7 
4.5.5 Sample Racks 8 4.5.6 Common Errors with Sample Tubes 10 4.6 Limitations of the Assay 10 

Chapter 5: Hardware Components 


5.1 Introduction 1 5.1.1 A note on Using Manufacturer-Approved Replacement Parts 1 5.2 Autosampler 
System 2 5.2.1 Sample Transport Module Description (09-30-1300S) 2 5.2.2 Probe Module Description 
(09-30-1620S) 3 5.2.3 Injection Module Description (09-30-1900S) 4 5.3 Pump Module (09-30-2000S) 4 
5.3.1 System Description 4 5.4 Oven Module (09-30-1800S) 5 5.4.1 System Description 5 5.4.2 
Performance Specifications 5 5.5 Detector Module (09-30-1700S) 5 5.5.1 Detector Description 5 5.6 CPU 
Module (09-30-1500S) 6 5.6.1 Data Handling Description 6 5.6.2 Physical Characteristics 6 5.7 Barcode 
Readers 7 5.7.1 Manual Barcode Reader Gun 7 5.7.2 Automatic Barcode Reader Assembly (on Sample 
Transport) 8 5.7.3 Barcode Sticker Application 8 5.8 Automatic Debubblers & Waste Pump 9 5.8.1 
Automatic Debubblers 9 5.8.2 Waste Pump 10 5.9 Decontamination Protocol for Service and End of Life 
Disposal 11 
 
Chapter 6: Software & Operation 
6.1 Introduction & Start Up 1 6.1.1 Definitions 1 6.2 Installation Screens 2 6.3 Preparation for Patient 
Sample Runs 13 6.3.1 Activate System 13 6.3.2 System Calibration 15 6.3.3 Baseline Calibration 17 6.3.4 
Load Racks 19 6.3.5 Patient Sample Run 19 6.3.6 Automated operator Assistant 21 6.4 Deactivate 
System/Exit Application 22 6.5 Other Menus & Software Tools 24 6.5.1 Operation Menu 24 6.5.2 Edit 
Menu 27 6.5.3 View Menu 28 6.5.4 Devices Menu 33 6.5.5 Help Menu 38 6.5.6 Exit Application 39 6.6 
Directory Structure 40 6.7 Copying from the GHbArch Folder 41 

Chapter 7: Results & Interpretation 


7.1 Overview 1 7.2 Auto-Verification 1 7.2.1 Auto-Verification Features 2 7.2.2 Auto-Verification 
Conclusions 9 7.3 QC Recommendations 10 7.4 Report Interpretation 11 7.4.1 On-Screen Report 11 7.4.2 
Printed Report 11 7.4.3 Interpretation of Report 12 7.5 Other Reports 13 7.5.1 Header Page 13 7.5.2 
Batch Summary Report (BSR) 16 7.6 Chapter References 17 
 
Chapter 8: Operator Maintenance 
8.1 Introduction, Instrument & Component Overview 1 8.1.1 Daily Maintenance 2 8.1.2 Weekly 
Maintenance 3 8.1.3 Periodic Maintenance 3 8.1.4 Preventative Maintenance 3 8.2 Changing the 
Reagents 4 8.2.1 Priming the Pumps 9 8.2.2 Priming the Piston Rinsing Chamber with Purified Water 9 
8.2.3 Priming the Dilutor (Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent) 10 8.2.4 Priming the Active Rinse Station 
(ARS) 10 8.3 Changing the Column 11 8.3.1 Changing the Frits 16 8.4 Detector Maintenance 20 8.4.1 
Removing Air Bubbles from the Flow Cell 20 8.5 Pump Maintenance 21 8.6 Sample Transport, Syringe 
Module and Probe Module Maintenance 21 

Chapter 9: Operator Troubleshooting 


9.1 General Troubleshooting 1 9.1.1 Aligning the Touch Screen Monitor 1 9.1.2 Priming the Manual 
Debubblers 3 9.2 Hardware Error Codes 5 9.2.1 Data Handling System 5 9.2.2 Autosampler System 7 
9.2.3 Pump Module 11 9.2.4 Oven Module 12 9.2.5 Detector Module 12 9.2.6 Waste Pump 13 9.3 Peak 
Analysis & Results Codes 14 9.3.1 Patient Sample Peak Analysis & Results Codes 14 9.3.2 Calibration 
Run Peak Analysis & Results Codes 22 9.4 General Chromatography Troubleshooting 31 9.4.1 Normal 
Chromatography 31 9.4.2 General Recommendations 32 9.4.3 Hb Variants & Other Potentially 
Interfering Substances 32 9.4.4 Air In Pumps 33 9.4.5 Short Sample 33 9.5 Miscellaneous Operational 
Suggestions 34 9.5.1 Proper Handling of Biohazardous Waste 34 9.6 Contacting Technical Support 35 
 
Chapter 10: Data Transmission 
10.1 Premier Hb9210TM Data Transmission using ASTM E1394-97 Protocol 1 10.1.1 Introduction 1 
10.1.2 General 1 10.1.3 Physical Connection & Communication 1 10.2 ASTM E1394-97 Field Usage 2 
10.2.1 Header Record 2 10.2.2 Patient Record 3 10.2.3 Order Record 3 10.2.4 Result Number 1 Record ... 
Result Number 3 Record 5 10.2.5 Message Terminator 10 10.2.6 Communication to LIS Example 10 
10.2.7 Bi-directional Communication between the Premier Hb9210TM and the LIS 10 10.3 Premier 
Hb9210TM Data Transmission using Data Dump 11 10.3.1 Introduction 11 10.3.2 General 11 10.3.3 
Physical Connection & Communication 11 10.3.4 Data Field Usage 11 10.3.5 Premier Hb9210TM 
Communication to LIS Example 12 10.3.6 Uni-directional Communication Between Premier Hb9210TM 
and the LIS 12 

TLA Appendix 
TLA 1 System Overview 1 TLA 2 System Operation 3 TLA 3 TLA LIS Protocol 9 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM Site 
Preparation 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ System Requirements ✓ Installation ✓ Safety Precautions 
 
Chapter 1 – Site Preparation 
1.1 Introduction 
This section defines environmental, physical and electrical requirements of the Premier Hb9210TM 
HPLC instrument. 

1.2 System Description 


The system consists of Premier Hb9210TM Liquid Chromatograph containing integrated HPLC, sample 
preparation/transport, and computer workstation. 
Instrument Dimensions 
Height: 74 cm (29”) Width: 54 cm (21”) Depth: 66 cm (26”) Instrument Weight 62 kg (137 pounds) 

1.3 System Requirements 


1.3.1 Environmental Requirements 
Temperature 10 – 40°C (50-104°F) Humidity 10 – 90% (non-condensing) 
Required Bench Space 
76 cm (30”) of bench space that is at least 76 cm (30”) deep. Must be capable of supporting 75 Kg 
(165lbs) Storage Condition 2 – 40°C Storage Humidity 10-90% (non-condensing) 
1.3.2 Electrical Requirements 
Line Voltage 
110/120 VAC +5%, -10% 220/240 VAC +5%, -10% 
1 | Chapter 1 – Site Preparation Rev. 23 
Only  an  authorized  Trinity  Biotech  representative  should  perform  the  installation  of  the  Premier 
Hb9210TM  system.  Installation  by  any  other  person(s)  will  void  the  system  warranty.  Moving  the 
instrument  within  or  external  to  the laboratory also requires the presence of an authorized Trinity Biotech 
Representative. 
 
Line Frequency 50 – 60 Hz 
Line Disturbance 
Surges and sags must not exceed ± 20% of normal line voltage. Voltage must return to normal within 15 
msec, line transients >10μsec pulse width and >50% of normal rated may produce instrument 
malfunctions. Line Voltage 100 – 240 VAC Power Connection 3-prong ground outlet Power 
Consumption 250 watts maximum 
Fuse Rating 
3.0 Amp, 250VAC, Qty: 2 Type: GMA 

1.4 Installation 
Installation  of  the  Premier  Hb9210TM HPLC instrument is performed only by authorized Trinity Biotech 
representatives,  for  the  most  up-to-date  installation  instructions  please  contact  Trinity  Biotech  or  your 
local distribution partner. Unauthorized installation may invalidate the instrument warranty. 
1.4.1 Component Transport and Storage Prior to Installation 
1. Components and system cabinet should be transported in their individual packing containers with 
custom 
foam inserts present. 
2. Palletized entire system can only be stacked 1 unit high. 
3. Follow all symbols on packaging, as shown in Figure 2 below. 
4. Instrument components need to be shipped and stored in a relatively cool and dry location, 10 - 40°C 
(50- 
104°F) and 10 - 90% relative humidity (non-condensing). 
2 | Chapter 1 – Site Preparation Rev. 23 
The  power line assigned to this instrument should not be shared with any other equipment due to potential 
interference  and  power  problems.  To  protect  the  operator,  the  instrument  panels  and  cabinet  must  be 
grounded. Verify the ground before installing the System. 
 
1.4.2 Safe Lifting Technique 
When lifting the Premier Hb9210TM instrument, it is important to practice safe lifting techniques. Safe 
lifting instructions are as follows: 
1. Stand close to the instrument component. 
2. Bend your knees when lifting; do not use your back. 
3. Let your legs do the lifting while keeping your back straight. 
4. Practice team lifting (get somebody to help you) if necessary. 

✓ 

Figure 1: Proper and Improper Lifting Technique 
1.4.3 Instrument Installation Warnings 
1.  The  system  waste  tubing  needs  to  be  checked  for  proper  and  correct  drainage  to  a  clearly  marked 
biohazard  container  or  sanitary drain system. Incorrect drainage of the system solution(s) could result in a 
biohazard to personnel. 
2. Disposal of system waste must be in accordance with local regulations. 
3 | Chapter 1 – Site Preparation Rev. 23 
 
1.5 Important Symbols 
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 
7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 
13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 
Figure 2: Important Symbols 
1. Biohazard 2. Grounding (Earth Grounding) 3. Grounding (Earth Grounding) 4. Warning: Surface Hot 
5. Main Power On/Off 6. Transport with care 7. Components fragile 8. Do not get wet 9. Use no hooks 
10. Do not expose components to strong magnetic fields 11. Box and components recyclable 12. Do not 
stack more than “X” number of units high 13. This end up 14. Pinch point 15. Press/Crush point 16. 
Dispose electrical components in accordance with 
local regulations 17. Read Instructions Carefully Before Use 18. Device Interface Module 
Figure 3 below shows other important symbols listed on the rear of the instrument. 
Figure 3: Example of Rear Panel Label 
4 | Chapter 1 – Site Preparation Rev. 23 
 
1.6 Inspection 
Inspect all cartons delivered. If you find signs of external damage, call Trinity Biotech. Do not unpack 
cartons until your installation representative has arrived at your site. 

1.7 Important Safety Instructions 


✓ Check that the voltage setting matches the supply voltage. ✓ Connection to mains supply: Where 
protective grounding is required, plug the equipment into a supply outlet 
which has an earth connection. ✓ Do not place the equipment in liquid, nor put it where it could fall 
into liquid. ✓ If the equipment becomes wet, unplug it before touching it. ✓ Use the equipment only for 
the purpose described in the instructions for use. ✓ Do not use accessories which are not supplied or 
recommended by the manufacturer – these will void 
warranty, claims and registrations. ✓ Do not use the equipment if it is not working properly, or if it 
has suffered any damage. 
5 | Chapter 1 – Site Preparation Rev. 23 
Misuse  of  electrical  equipment  can  cause  electrocution,  burns,  fire  and  other  hazards.  Basic  safety 
precautions  should  always  be  taken,  including  all  of  the  following  listed  below.  Read  before  using  the 
equipment. 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 

CHA
PTER CONTENTS 
Introduction & System 
✓ Introduction ✓ Features ✓ Specifications Description 
✓ Intended Use 
 
Chapter 2 – Introduction & System Description 
2.1 Introduction 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  System  consists  of  an  integrated  HPLC  (2  Reagent  Pumps,  Injection  Valve, 
Oven  and  Detector),  compact  sample  preparation  system  (Probe/Injection  Port,  Syringe  Module  and 
Sample  Transport)  and  the  workstation  (CPU  and  Touch  Screen  Interface)  with  the  Premier  Hb9210TM 
Application Software. 
Figure 1: The Premier Hb9210TM HPLC 
The System consists of four main components used to fractionate and quantitate glycated haemoglobins: 
1. The Premier Hb9210TM HPLC is composed of a dual high pressure pump system, column oven and 
detector. 
1 | Chapter 2 – Introduction & System Description Rev.23 
 
2.  The  integrated  autosampler/sample  transport  features  a  210  sample  capacity  to  start  a single batch run 
with  the  ability  to  continuously  unload  analyzed  samples  and  load  new  samples.  The  additional  STAT 
sample capability allows for the analysis of an additional individual sample during batch analysis. 
3. The system is interfaced to a personal computer for system control and data storage. 
4.  The  Windows  7  or  XPTM  embedded  software  provides  real-time  chromatography  and  system 
condition  monitoring.  Patient  sample  identification  is  automated during the sampling process via barcode 
module  in  sample  transport  area.  A  barcode  gun  is  supplied  for  hand-scanning  of  consumable  barcodes, 
package inserts, as well as easy inputting of Calibrator and Control material set points. 
The fractionation and quantitation of glycated haemoglobin is accomplished using the principles of 
boronate affinity high performance liquid chromatography. 

2.2 Features 
1. Full walk-away capability 
2. Auto-verification of patient sample results 
3. Windows 7 or XPTM embedded, touch screen, icon-driven, user-friendly software control 
4. Small sample volume (0.5mL minimum haemolysate or mixed whole blood) 
5. Ability to start a batch of up to 210 samples with the ability to continuously unload analyzed samples 
and load 
new samples 
6. STAT sample capability 
7. Automatic sampling and injection system 
8. Integrated barcoding-while-sampling scanning of patient sample identification information 
9. Individual sample reports with selectable units (mmol HbA1c/mol Hb (IFCC) & %HbA1c (NGSP)), 
retention 
times and area of peaks 
10. Central processing unit (CPU) for automatic and unlimited storage of test results and archived test 
results 
11. Summary report of test results from each batch run – for on-screen review and/or printing 
12. Ability to reprint batch summary reports and chromatograms from computer storage and archive 
13. Real-time display allows monitoring of system operation 
The  software  allows  the  operator  to re-use the same sample rack during batch runs when running samples 
without  barcodes  (identified  as  ‘noID’  samples  in  software).  Please  see Chapter 6, section 6.3.5 for more 
details. 
2 | Chapter 2 – Introduction & System Description Rev.23 
 
2.3 Specifications 
1. Sample Whole blood, haemolysates or packed red blood cells.1 
2. Elements of Analysis HbA1c 
3. Principle Boronate affinity high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) 
4. Minimum readable division Area percent = 0.01% 
5. Minimum sample requirement ✓ 10μL (whole blood to make 1:150 haemolysate dilution, 
0.5mL minimum haemolysate volume) ✓ 5μL (packed red blood cells to make 1:300 dilution, 0.5mL 
minimum haemolysate volume) ✓ 0.5mL (mixed whole blood to make direct injection) 6. Sample 
capacity 210 samples 
7. Throughput 48 samples per hour 
8. Analytical Column Boronate bonded to a porous polymer support gel 
9. Column temperature 55.0oC ± 0.2oC 
10. Autosampler Integrated 210 sample transport 
11. Autoinjector Delivers sample volume with <1% error with 5-μL injection volume 
12. Detection LED wavelength detector, 413 + 2nm 

2.4 CPU Specifications 


1. Computer workstation comes pre-configured with Microsoft Windows 7 or XPTM Embedded 
operating system. 2. CPU has unlimited storage capacity for test results and archived test results 3. 
Hardware and/or software additions to the computer without consent of Trinity Biotech are not allowed. 
Any 
changes to the computer may interfere with validity of patient results and system integrity. 4. If 
Operator’s require a printer to be used with the Premier Hb9210TM, the printer cable for the computer 
must 
be Windows 7 or XPTM and USB compatible. 
1 Refer to section Chapter 4, Section 5 for information on Specimen Requirements 
3 | Chapter 2 – Introduction & System Description Rev.23 
 
2.5 Intended Use 
The intended use statement for the Premier Hb9210TM HbA1c system running the boronate affinity 
HbA1c assay is listed below. 
The  Premier  Hb9210  System  is  intended  for  the  quantitative  measurement  of  haemoglobin  A1c 
(HbA1c)  in  human  capillary  and  venous  whole  blood.  HbA1c  is  used  for  the  monitoring  of 
long-term glycemic control in individuals with diabetes mellitus. For in vitro diagnostic use only. 
2.6 Premier Hb9210TM Certification 
In line with the ADA/EASD/IDF Working Group on HbA1c recent guidelines for reporting HbA1c, the 
Premier Hb9210TM is certified to report in both IFCC and NGSP units. 
• IFCC (mmol HbA1c/mol Hb) 
• NGSP (% HbA1c) 
For further information please contact Trinity Biotech or your local support representative. 

2.7 510(K) Listing 


Reference #: K112015 

2.8 CE Mark 
Trinity Biotech declares that the Premier Hb9210TM, related reagents and control materials conform to 
the relevant provisions of the EX Council Directive 98/79/EC and Annex III, except Section 6, of the 
IVDD as implemented by the European Union’s Medical Devices Regulations. The Global Medical 
Device Nomenclature (GMDN) code is 30838. 
4 | Chapter 2 – Introduction & System Description Rev.23 
 
5 | Chapter 2 – Introduction & System Description Rev.23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 
Principles of Operation 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Principles of Analysis ✓ Merits of Assay ✓ Specific Performance ✓ Characteristics 
 
Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation 
3.1 Clinical Significance of HbA1c 
Glycated  haemoglobin  (HbA1c)  is  of  particular  clinical  interest  in  diabetes  mellitus.  Measurement  of 
glycated  haemoglobin  is  a  clinically  useful  means  of  assessing  glycemic  control  in  diabetics.6, 7 HbA1c 
values  reflect  blood  glucose  levels  over  the  circulatory  half-life  of  the  erythrocyte  (about  60  days)  and 
correlate  significantly  with  mean  blood  glucose  levels  during  that  time.4,  8  Therefore,  measurement  of 
glycated  haemoglobin provides a means, independent of multiple measurements such as patient records of 
self-monitored  blood  glucose,  for  assessing  the  overall  efficacy of therapy. Factors such as diet, exercise, 
insulin  regimen  and  stress  can  affect  glycemic  control,  and  therefore  HbA1c  values.  In  uncontrolled  or 
poorly-controlled  diabetics,  glycated  haemoglobin  values  may  be  two  or  three  times  as  high  as  in 
non-diabetics,  while  meticulously  controlled  diabetics  may  have  HbA1c  values  near  or  in  the  normal 
range.9  Uncontrolled  or  poorly-controlled  diabetics  brought  under  better  control  will  exhibit  a  gradual 
drop  in  HbA1c  values,  reaching  a  new  equilibrium  in  approximately  eight  weeks.1  There  is  significant 
evidence  that  maintaining  good  glycemic  control  has  a  positive  impact  on  the  development  of  the 
long-term complications of diabetes.10, 11, 12, 13, 14 

3.2 Principles of Analysis 


Glycated  proteins  (haemoglobins  and  plasma  proteins)  differ  from  non-glycated  proteins  by  the 
attachment  of  a  sugar  moiety(s)  to  the  former  at  various  binding  sites  by  means  of  a  ketoamine  bond. 
GHb  and  GPP  thus  contain  1,2-cis-diol  groups  not  found  in  non-glycated  proteins.  These  diol  groups 
provide  the  basis  for  separation  of  glycated  and  non-glycated  components  by  boronate  affinity 
chromatography3,5.  In  this  analytical  technique,  a  boronate  such  as  phenylboronic  acid  is  bonded  to  the 
surface  of  the  column  support.  When  a  solution  of  proteins  (haemolysate  or  diluted  plasma)  is  passed 
through  the  column,  the  glycated  component  is  retained  by  the  complexing  of  its  diol  groups  with  the 
boronate  (Figure  1).  After  the  unretained  non-glycated  component  elutes  from  the  column,  the  glycated 
component is eluted from the column with a reagent that displaces it from the boronate.3, 15 
Figure 1: Affinity Binding of Glycated Protein 
1 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  employs  the  principles  of  boronate  affinity  and  high-performance  liquid 
chromatography  (HPLC).  The  pumps  transfer  reagents  through  the  analytical  column  which  contains 
aminophenylboronic acid bonded to a porous polymer support (gel). 
Haemolysed  samples  for  HbA1c  analysis  are  automatically  injected  onto  the  column  during  the  flow  of 
Premier  Hb9210TM  Reagent  Buffer  A.  The  glycated  component  binds  to  the  boronate,  while  the 
non-glycated  component  passes  through  the  column  to  the  spectrophotometric  detector,  where  it  is 
detected at 413 + 2 nm. 
After  the  elution  of  the  non-glycated  component,  the  system  pumps  Premier  Hb9210TM Reagent Buffer 
B,  which  displaces  the  glycated  component  from  the  column.  The  glycated  component  then  passes 
through  the  detector.  See  Figure  2  for  a  diagram  of  the  binding  of  glycated  haemoglobin  in  the  Premier 
Hb9210TM system. 
Figure 2: Affinity Binding Diagram 
The compositions of Elution Buffers A & B are designed to exhibit virtually identical absorption in the 
413 + 2nm range to ensure a stable baseline. The detector signal is also referenced by the split-beam 
technique. 
In the final stage of the cycle, the column is re-equilibrated with Elution Reagent A. All reagent selection 
occurs in a timed sequence designed to allow complete elution of non-glycated and glycated components. 
All  functions  are  controlled  by  the  computer.  The  computer  processes  the  signal  from  the 
spectrophotometric  detector  and  calculates the concentration of glycated hemoglobin or plasma protein as 
a percentage of the total detected. Integration is by peak area in Absorbance Units (AU)-seconds. 
The computer produces printed reports by analyzing signal as it is received by the detector. A Batch 
Summary Report is printed at the end of the run. 
2 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
The software, especially designed for HbA1c analysis, controls the four basic system operation functions 
of sample identification, instrument operation, calculation of results, as well as printing and storing 
complete reports. Based on computer hard disc capacity, many years worth of data (chromatograms and 
batch summary reports) can be automatically archived. 
Calculation of the percentage of GHb in the sample is by the following formula, with peak area in 
AU/seconds: 
(PPPPPPPP 1 AAAAPPPP PPPPPPPP + 2 AAAAPPPP 
PPPPPPPP 2 AAAAPPPP) 
∗ 100 
The  final  result  is  obtained  by  comparison  to  reference  samples  using  a  2-point  calibration.  The Premier 
Hb9210TM  is  traceable  to  the  IFCC  method  and  is  also  NGSP certified in order to ensure A1c levels are 
quantitated correctly. 

3.3 Merits of the Assay 


3.3.1 Boronate Affinity HbA1c Assay 
HbA1c  measurement  by  boronate  affinity  chromatography  is  free  from  interferences  such  as  common 
haemoglobin  variants,  non-glycation  modifications  and  storage-related  hemichromes.2  Boronate  affinity 
chromatography  requires  no  sample  pre-treatment  to  remove  the  labile  (aldimine  or  Schiff  base) 
component, since only stable (ketoamine-linked) glycated haemoglobins are retained by the boronate. 
3.3.2 Premier Hb9210TM 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  combines  the  advantages  of  boronate  affinity  separation  with  the  precision, 
convenience  and  automation  of  high-performance  liquid  chromatography.  After  samples  are  loaded  and 
identified,  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  permits  unattended  operation.  The  Premier  Hb9210TM batch runs up 
to  210  samples  including  two  dedicated  positions  for  low  and  high  controls,  as  well  as  the  ability  to run 
STAT samples. 
3.3.3 Glycated Haemoglobin Reporting Units 
The Premier Hb9210TM system currently reports in the following units (user selectable): 
✓ mmol HbA1c/mol Hb (IFCC) ✓ %HbA1c (NGSP) 
Conversion Equations: mmol HbA1c/mol Hb (IFCC) ↔ %HbA1c (NGSP) 
mmol HbA1c/mol Hb (IFCC) = (%HbA1c NGSP – 2.15) / 0.091516 
%HbA1c NGSP = (0.0915 (mmol HbA1c/mol Hb (IFCC)) + 2.1517 
Table 1: Glycated Haemoglobin Interconversions 
For the latest interconversion equations between the various measurements of HbA1c reporting units, 
please refer to the official NGSP website – www.ngsp.org 
3 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
3.3.4 Expected Values 
The  expected mmol HbA1c/mol Hb or %HbA1c value for patients with diabetes will depend on physician 
discretion.  The  American  Diabetes  Association  (ADA)/European  Association  for  the  Study  of  Diabetes 
(EASD)  specify  a  treatment  goal  of  53  mmol/mol  (7  %)  or  less  and  suggest  additional  action  when  the 
HbA1c level is above 64 mmol/mol (8%). 
3.3.5 HbA1c Accuracy 
In accuracy testing of the Trinity Biotech Premier Hb9210TM vs. ultra2, ordinary least squares fit for the 
linear regression was used with the correlation coefficient (r2) = 0.9962. 
✓ The slope and intercept of the linear regression line is: y = 1.0069x - 0.1214 where the x axis are the 
results 
from the ultra2 and the y axis are the results from the Premier Hb9210TM. 
✓ The Premier Hb9210TM demonstrates linear performance from 3.8% to 18.5% HbA1c. 
Premier Hb9210 (y) vs. ultra2 (x) 
19.0 
c 1 A b H % , Y 
17.0 15.0 13.0 11.0 9.0 
Identity line A=B 
y = 1.0069x - 0.1214 
d o 
R2 = 0.9962 h t e 
7.0 

5.0 3.0 
3.0 5.0 7.0 9.0 11.0 13.0 15.0 17.0 19.0 
Method X, %HbA1c 
Figure 3: Method Comparison (linearity) 
✓ The total number of points used in the regression was 48 per instrument (Premier Hb9210TM single 
results, 
ultra2 average of 2 analyses per sample). 
✓ The bias calculated from the regression line at stated medical decision point of 6.5% to 8.0% HbA1c 
was at 
or less than 0.3% HbA1c (at generally recognized decision points). 
4 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
0.6 
n e e 
0.5 0.4 w t e 
0.3 


0.2 0.1 
Bias Line = -0.07 

d o 
0.0 
%HbA1c c n e r e f f i D 
h t e m 
-0.1 -0.2 -0.3 -0.4 % 
-0.5 -0.6 
3.0 5.0 7.0 9.0 11.0 13.0 15.0 17.0 19.0 
%HbA1c Level 
Figure 4: Method Comparison (bias) 
✓ The range of data included in the regression: The lowest value was 4.4% HbA1c and the highest value 
was 
16.2% HbA1c. 
✓ The ultra2 (Method X) was the comparative method used in the regression. 
✓ The standard error of estimate of the data was -0.067. 
✓ The confidence interval on the overall bias is 0.047 (at the 95% CI). 
✓ Ordinary least squares fit for the linear regression was used with the correlation coefficient (R2) = 
0.9962. 
3.3.6 HbA1c Linearity/Measurable Range 
The  results  of  this  study  will  guide  laboratory  management  in  establishing  acceptable instrument HbA1c 
result  reporting  ranges  (minimum  and  maximum  HbA1c  results  allowable).  As  such,  each  lab  should 
verify  each  result  is  within  HbA1c  result  linearity.  The  software  has  user-settable  flags to allow each lab 
to  enter  their  proven  minimum/maximum  HbA1c  result  and  values  beyond  this proven range are flagged 
and a --- value is applied to this patient to prevent releasing a result beyond proven HbA1c linearity. 
In  HbA1c  linearity  testing  of  the  Trinity  Biotech  Premier  Hb9210TM,  7  samples  mixed  from  a  low  and 
high  sample  were  analyzed.  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  has  been  demonstrated  to  be  linear  from  18 
mmol/mol to 179 mmol/mol (3.8% to 18.5%) HbA1c with a correlation coefficient (r2) = 0.9958. 
3.3.7 HbA1c Analytical Specificity 
Several  studies  were  performed  in  which  normal  and  abnormal  (>64  mmol/mol,  8%  HbA1c)  %HbA1c 
level  blood  samples  were  directly  compared  to  blood  containing  a  specific  potentially  interfering 
substance.  Different  concentrations  of  interfering  substances  were  tested  at  two  %HbA1c  levels.  As  a 
control  method,  pooled  unaltered  blood  was  analyzed.  As  an  evaluation  method,  the  pooled  unaltered 
blood  was  then  spiked  with  a  potentially  interfering  substance.  The  acceptance  criteria  for  interference 
was  a  variance  in  the %HbA1c value within the range of ± 5% of the original (interferant free) value. The 
data is summarized below. 
5 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ labile HbA1c – no interference up to 1500 mg/dL 
✓ icterus – no interference up to 20 mg/dL 
✓ lipemia – no interference up to 3317 mg/dL 
✓ carbamylated HbA1c – no interference up to 65 mg/dL 
✓ acetaldehyde – no interference up to 25 mg/dL 
✓ acetylsalicylic acid – no interference up to 90 mg/dL 
✓ sodium heparin – no interference up to 450 USP 
✓ sodium fluoride – no interference up to 1157 mg/dL (~3x industry accepted blood collection tube 
concentration) 
✓ EDTA – no interference up to 1440 mg/dL (~8x industry accepted blood collection tube concentration) 
Hemoglobin  variant  (HbV)  interference  studies  were  performed  using  patient  samples  containing HbAS, 
HbAD,  HbAE  and HbAC in an evaluation method in direct relation to the comparative method, K891235. 
The  acceptance  criteria  were  that  an  HbV  is  considered  to  interfere  if  the  %  variance  from  the  known 
good  method  is  greater  than  ±  %7.  No  interference  was  observed  for  HbAS  up  to  a  concentration  of 
35.8%,  HbAD  up  to  a  concentration  of  28.9%,  HbAE  up  to  a  concentration  of  16.9%  or  HbAC  up  to  a 
concentration of 34.8%. 
Regarding elevated levels of HbF, a 2012 publication found that HbA1c results using Trinity Biotech 
Boronate Affinity showed no clinically significant interference in patients with HbF levels up to 15%18. 
3.3.8 HbA1c Carryover 
In  linearity  testing  of  the  Trinity  Biotech  Premier  Hb9210TM,  the  method  has  demonstrated  carryover 
less  than  2.2  mmol/mol  (0.2%)  HbA1c.  20  runs  were  performed  over  5  days  of  the  10  sample  data  set 
consisting  of  low,  decision  point  and  high  %HbA1c  samples.  After  calculation  of  the cumulative means, 
standard  deviations,  coefficients  of  variance,  and  biases  of  each  of  the  pooled  patient  sample  levels,  the 
following determined acceptability: 
1. The coefficient of variance of each level does not exceed the acceptable product claim. 
2. The standard deviation of the high-low samples should be ≤3x the standard deviation of the low-low 
samples. 
6 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
Cumulative Statistics Mean 5.46 %HbA1c 8.37 %HbA1c 11.23 %HbA1c SD 0.103 
0.152 0.182 % CV 1.89 1.81 1.62 
Lo-Lo Mean 5.41 %HbA1c Lo-Lo StDev 0.089 Hi-Lo Mean 5.51 %HbA1c Hi-Lo StDev 0.110 Pass? Yes 
Table 2: Carryover Testing Data 
3.3.9 HbA1c Matrix Effects – Collection Methods and Anticoagulants 
Matrix  comparison  studies  were  performed  to  encompass  the  entire  measuring  range  from  18  mmol/mol 
to  179  mmol/mol  (3.8  to  18.5  %)  HbA1c  on  the  Premier  Hb9210TM.  Different  concentrations  of 
interfering  substances  were  tested  at  two  HbA1c levels. As a control method, pooled unaltered blood was 
analyzed.  As  an  evaluation  method,  the  pooled  unaltered  blood  was  then  spiked  with  a  potentially 
interfering  substance.  The acceptance criteria for interference was a variance in the %HbA1c value within 
the range of ± 5% of the original (interferant free) value. The data are summarized below. 
✓ Sodium heparin – no interference up to 450 USP 
✓ Sodium fluoride – no interference up to 1157 mg/dL (~3x industry accepted blood collection tube 
concentration) 
✓ EDTA – no interference up to 1440 mg/dL (~8x industry accepted blood collection tube concentration) 
3.3.10 HbA1c Matrix Effects – Frozen and Non-Frozen Samples 
To  test  for  matrix  effects  on  freezing  of  blood  sample  types  (venous  blood  samples  from  EDTA-treated 
blood  collection  tubes  and  their  corresponding  hemolysate  samples)  for  %HbA1c/glycated  hemoglobin 
measurements on the Premier Hb9210TM, 20 patient samples were compared as follows: 
✓ Frozen hemolysate vs. non-frozen hemolysate 
✓ Lysates from frozen whole blood vs. non-frozen hemolysate 
✓ Frozen hemolysate vs. lysates from frozen whole blood 
Analysis on the Premier Hb9210TM indicated that sample freezing had no affect on sample results. The 
bias calculated from the regression line at stated medical decision point of 46 mmol/mol to 64 mmol/mol 
(6.5% to 8.0%) HbA1c was at or less than 1.1 mmol/mol (0.1%) HbA1c (at generally recognized decision 
points). 
7 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
3.3.11 HbA1c Precision 
Intra-run  Precision  –  All  sites  –  Haemolysate:  The  between-run  precision  study  consists  of  three 
haemolysate  samples  representing  normal,  decision  point  and  abnormal  levels  of  %HbA1c.  They  were 
analyzed  on  20  non-  consecutive  days.  One  internal  and  2  external  sites  were  involved,  each  site  was 
provided  with the same sample set (aliquotted and frozen whole blood) and directed to perform 2 analyses 
of  each  sample  per  run  with  2  runs  per  day  (a  total  of  80  replicates  of  each  level  per  site,  240 replicates 
overall.  The  study  lasted  35  calendar  days.  The  estimates  of  imprecision  for  each  sample result obtained 
from all 3 study sites (all results averaged) analysis are given in the table below: 
Actual number of days involved in the experiment, and number of sites: 
35 days, 3 sites 
Actual total number of runs (if applicable): 120 total runs Total number of observations (including 
controls): 1200 total observations 
Number of instruments/devices used in the evaluation, and how results were pooled: 
3 instruments, individual values not pooled 
Number of reagent lots: 1 reagent lot number per reagent/column 
Number of calibration cycles and calibration lots: 
16 total recalibrations once study started, 1 lot of Calibrator used. Table 3: Intra-run Precision - Overview 
All Labs Concentrations at which claim is made; %HbA1c 5.76 
7.07 10.96 Estimate of repeatability SD, (S 

) 0.07 0.05 0.09 Repeatability %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.26 0.72 0.85 Estimate of within-device precision SD, (S 


) 0.09 0.09 0.16 Within-device precision %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.62 1.28 1.50 Table 4: Intra-run Precision – Overview 


8 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
Intra-run Precision – Individual Sites – Haemolysate: 
The between-run precision study data for each individual site is as follows: 
Site A: External Concentrations at which claim is made; %HbA1c 
5.70 7.06 10.96 Estimate of repeatability SD, (S 

) 0.07 0.06 0.09 Repeatability %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.24 0.79 0.78 Estimate of within-device precision SD, (S 


) 0.10 0.11 0.18 Within-device precision %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.84 1.58 1.62 


Site B: External Concentrations at which claim is made; %HbA1c 
5.71 7.08 10.88 Estimate of repeatability SD, (S 

) 0.05 0.06 0.09 Repeatability %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 0.85 0.79 0.85 Estimate of within-device precision SD, (S 


) 0.08 0.09 0.18 Within-device precision %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.47 1.20 1.62 


Site C: Internal Concentrations at which claim is made; %HbA1c 
5.85 7.06 11.03 Estimate of repeatability SD, (S 

) 0.10 0.04 0.10 Repeatability %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.68 0.57 0.92 Estimate of within-device precision SD, (S 


) 0.09 0.07 0.14 Within-device precision %CV = (S 


/mean)*100 1.55 1.04 1.27 Table 5: Intra-run Precision - Individual Sites – 


Haemolysate 
9 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
3.4 Chapter References 
1. Bunn, H. F. et al. "The biosynthesis of human hemoglobin A1c: slow glycosylation of hemoglobin in vivo." J Clin 
Invest 
57:1652-1659 (1976) 2. Fluckiger, R. "Glycated Haemoglobins - Review." J Chromatog 428:279-292 (1988) 3. 
Mallia, A. K. et al. "Preparation and use of a boronic acid affinity support for separation and quantitation of 
glycosylated 
hemoglobins." Anal Lett 14:649-661 (1981) 4. Nathan, D. M. et al. "The clinical information value of the 
glycosylated hemoglobin assay." N End J Med 310:341-346 
(1984) 5. Fairbands, V. F. and Zimmerman, B. R. "Measurement of glycosylated hemoglobin by affinity 
chromatography," Mayo 
Clin Proc 58:770-773 (1983) 6. Koenig, R. J. et al. "Correlation of glucose regulation and hemoglobin A1c in 
diabetes mellitus." N Eng J Med 295:417- 
420 (1976) 7. Gabbay, K. H. et al. "Glycosylated hemoglobins and long-term blood glucose control in diabetes 
mellitus." J Clin End & 
Metab 44:859-864 (1977) 8. Koenig, R. J. et al. "Hemoglobin A1c as an indicator of the degree of glucose 
intolerance in diabetes." Diabetes 
25:230-232 (1976) 9. Peterson, C. M. et al. "Feasibility of improved blood glucose control in patient with 
insulin-dependent diabetes 
mellitus." Diabetes Care 2:329-335 (1979) 10. Unger, R. H. "Benefits an risks of meticulous control of 
diabetes." Medical Clinics of North America: Symposium on 
Diabetes 66(6):1317-1325 (1982) 11. Raskin, P. R. et al. "The effect of diabetic control on the width of skeletal 
muscle capillary basement membrane in 
patient with Type 1 diabetes mellitus." N End J Med 309:1546-1550 12. Colwell, J. A. et al. "New concepts 
about the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in diabetes mellitus." Am J Med Glipizide 
Symposium:81-84 (1983) 13. Brownlee, M. and Cerami, A. "The biochemistry of the complications of diabetes 
mellitus." Ann Rev Biochem 50:385- 
432 (1981) 14. Brownlee, M. et al. "Advanced glycosylation and products in tissue and the biochemical basis of 
diabetic 
complications." N Eng J Med 318:1315-1321 (1988) 15. Willey, D. G. et al. "Glycosylated haemoglobin and 
plasma glycoprotein assays by affinity chromatography." Diabetologia 
27:56-58 (1984) 16. R.R Little et al. “Interlaboratory Standardization of Measurements of Glycohemoglobin” 
Clin Chem 38, 2472-2478 
(1992) 17. Cas Weykamp et al. “IFCC Reference System for Measurement of Hemoglobin A1c in Human 
Blood and the National 
Standardization Schemes in the United States, Japan, and Sweden: A Method-Comparison Study” Clinical 
Chemistry 50:1, 166-174 (2004) 18. Randie Little et al. “The effect of Increased Fetal hemoglobin on 7 common 
HbA1c Assay Methods” Clinical Chemistry; 
58:945-948 (2012) 
10 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
APPENDIX A – EXTERNAL STUDY 
Multicentre Evaluation of the Premier Hb9210TM HbA1c Analyser 
W. Garry John, Randie Little, David B. Sacks, Cas Weykmap, Erna Lenters-Westra, et al., Clin Chem 
DOI 10.1515, (2014) 
A.1 Precision & Trueness 
This  multicentre  evaluation  was  performed  across  five  clinical  laboratories  located  in  Europe  and  USA; 
Norfolk  and  Norwich  University  Hospital,  UK  (Centre  1), Diabetes Diagnostic Laboratory, University of 
Missouri,  USA  (Centre  2),  Department  of  Laboratory  Medicine,  National  Institutes  of  Health,  USA 
(Centre  3),  European  Reference  Laboratory,  located  in  Queen  Beatrix  Hospital, The Netherlands (Centre 
4) and European Reference Laboratory, located in Isala, The Netherlands (Centre 5). 
11 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
The findings of the Multicentre Evaluation are outlined below in Table 6 - these results demonstrate the 
precision of the Premier Hb9210TM boronate affinity HPLC. 
CV 
Mean CV for All Centres IFCC units, mmol/mol 
Mean CV for all Centres NGSP Units, % Total CV (Low HbA1c) 2.71 Total CV (Low HbA1c) 1.62 
Total CV (Mid HbA1c) 2.37 Total CV (Mid HbA1c) 1.59 Total CV (High HbA1c) 2.14 Total CV (High 
HbA1c) 1.68 
Table 6: Reported CV values reported as part of the Premier Hb9210TM Multicentre Evaluation 
A.2 HbA1c Linearity/Measurable Range 
The Multicentre Evaluation investigated the Premier Hb9210TM linearity at two centres. The data from 
Centre 1 is shown below in Table 7 as a representative example. 
SI units, mmol/mol NGSP, % units 
Sample 
CV 
Observed Value 
Theoretical Value 
% Difference 
Observed Value 
Theoretical Value 
% Difference 
1 32.0 32.0 0.0 5.08 5.08 0.0 2 64.3 63.3 1.58 8.03 7.94 1.13 3 79.7 79.0 0.89 9.44 9.38 0.64 4 95.7 94.7 
1.06 10.91 10.82 0.83 5 125.7 126.0 -0.24 13.65 13.68 -0.22 
Table 7: Results of Multicentre Linearity Study 
A.3 Interference Studies 
Haemoglobin Variants 
As  part  of  the  multicentre  evaluation,  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  was subjected to testing in the presence of 
the  four  most  common  haemoglobin  variants;  HbAC,  AD,  AE  and  AS.  The  results  of  this  testing  are 
outlined  below  in  Table 8. NOTE: NS signifies any interference observed was not significant, as noted by 
the authors during the course of the multicentre evaluation. 
Haemoglobin Variant 
Level at which interference deemed significant 
Level of interference observed (compared to secondary method) Haemoglobin AC ±7% bias 0%-0.3% 
(NS) Haemoglobin AD ±7% bias -0.2% (NS) Haemoglobin AE ±7% bias -1.6%-1.7% (NS) Haemoglobin 
AS ±7% bias 2.6%-2.8% (NS) 
Table 8: Effects of Common Hb Variants on HbA1c Measurement on the Premier Hb9210TM 
12 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
Other Potential Interferents 
As  well  as  the  common  variants  highlighted  above,  further  potential  interferents  were investigated in the 
course  of  the  multicentre  evaluation.  Table  9  below  outlines the testing procedure utilised throughout the 
course of evaluation. 
Potential Interferent Level of interferent used Level of interference observed 
Carbamylated Hb 0.2%-12% carbmylated Hb No significant effect 
Labile HbA1c 0-120 mmol/L glucose 
When glucose is 60-120mmol/L, HbA1c is 2-5 mmol/mol (0.2%-0.5% NGSP) higher. When glucose is 
30mmol/L, HbA1c is ~1mmol/mol (<0.1% NGSP) high. 
Low haematocrit 
0.091-0.387 (Hb levels 69-140 g/L) 
HCT values below 0.306 are not reliable & manual dilution is required to obtain HbA1c values Icteric 
plasma Total billirubin 356 μmol/L -1.7 mmol/mol HbA1c (NS) 
Table 9: Results of Interference Studies on HbA1c Measurement on the Premier Hb9210TM 
A.4 HbA1c Carryover 
As part of the multicentre evaluation paper the authors reported the following: 
✓  “There  was no effect of carryover evident from the analysis of alternate high and low samples 
of  HbA1c.  The  difference  between the means of the high-low and the low-low sequence samples 
was  0.6  mmol/mol  (0.05%  NGSP),  which  is  less  than  three  times  the  SD  of  the  low-low  values 
[1.64 mmol/mol, 0.15% NGSP)].” 
13 | Chapter 3 – Principles of Operation Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 
Preparation for Operation 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Test Components ✓ Use & Storage ✓ Preparation of Calibrators 
& Controls ✓ Specimen Requirements 
 
Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation 
4.1 Test Components 
Trinity Biotech provides XL test packs in the following configurations: 
XL500 Test Pack – Part Number: 09-03-0008 
Component Qty/Pack Premier Hb9210TM Buffer A Reagent, 940 mL 3 Premier Hb9210TM 
Buffer B Reagent, 940 mL 4 Premier Hb9210TM Diluent Reagent, 3.8L 2 Premier Hb9210TM 
WASH Reagent, 940 mL 3 2 micron Pre-column Frit 1 75 micron Pre-Injection Valve Frit 1 
XL500 Column 1 
✓ The pack contains one 500 injection (XL500) column 
✓ The pack includes sufficient reagent to perform 500 patient sample injections 
✓ The configuration is designed for customers running ≤ 25,000 tests per year 
XL1000 Test Pack – Part Number: 09-03-0010 
Component Qty/Pack Premier Hb9210TM Buffer A Reagent, 940 mL 6 Premier Hb9210TM 
Buffer B Reagent, 940 mL 8 Premier Hb9210TM Diluent Reagent, 3.8L 4 Premier Hb9210TM 
WASH Reagent, 940 mL 6 2 micron Pre-column Frit 1 75 micron Pre-Injection Valve Frit 1 
XL1000 Column 1 ✓ The pack contains one 1000 injection (XL1000) column 
✓ The pack includes sufficient reagent to perform 1000 patient sample injections 
✓ The configuration is designed for customers running 25,000 – 50,000 tests per year 
1 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
It  is  recommended  that  operators  wear  the  appropriate  PPE  (personal  protective  equipment)  while 
working  with  potentially  biohazardous materials. Furthermore, ensure to dispose of components that have 
come in contact with biohazardous materials in an appropriate biohazard waste bin. 
 
XL3000 Test Pack – Part Number: 09-03-0007 
Component Qty/Pack Premier Hb9210TM Buffer A Reagent, 3.8L 3 Premier Hb9210TM Buffer 
B Reagent, 3.8L 3 Premier Hb9210TM Diluent Reagent, 3.8L 9 Premier Hb9210TM WASH 
Reagent, 940 mL 3 2 micron Pre-column Frit 3 75 micron Pre-Injection Valve Frit 3 XL1000 
Column 3 
✓ The pack contains three 1000 injection (XL1000) columns 
✓ The pack includes sufficient reagent to perform 3000 patient sample injections 
✓ The configuration is designed for customers running ≥ 100,000 tests per year 
A list of possible components associated with the system are as follows: 
Reagents: 
✓ Premier Hb9210TM Buffer A Reagent (Elution Reagent #1), 940 mL, (01-03-0095) ✓ Premier 
Hb9210TM Buffer B Reagent (Elution Reagent #2), 940 mL, (01-03-0096) ✓ Premier Hb9210TM 
Buffer A Reagent (Elution Reagent #1), 3.8 L, (01-03-0080) ✓ Premier Hb9210TM Buffer B Reagent 
(Elution Reagent #2), 3.8 L, (01-03-0081) ✓ Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent (for Rinse Station), 3.8 L, 
(01-03-0097) ✓ Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent (for Syringe), 3.8 L, (01-03-0097) ✓ Premier 
Hb9210TM WASH Reagent, 940 mL, (01-03-0098) ✓ Purified Water 
Calibrators: 
✓ Hemoglobin A1c Calibrator Kit, 400μL, (01-04-0018) ✓ Hemoglobin A1c Calibrator Kit, 500μL, 
(01-04-0022) 
Controls: 
✓ Hemoglobin A1c Control Kit, 400μL, (01-04-0015) ✓ Hemoglobin A1c Control Kit, 500μL, 
(01-04-0020) 
Column: 
✓ Premier Hb9210TM XL1000 Boronate Affinity Column (09-06-0046)1 ✓ Premier Hb9210TM 
XL500 Boronate Affinity Column (09-06-0050)1 
1 Pre-Injection Valve & Pre-Column Frits (1 ea.) included with each column. 
2 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
Additional items needed (not provided by Trinity Biotech): 
✓ Sample vials – 13x75mm untreated test tubes for QC and haemolysate sample preparations 
(03-07-0152, 
Test Tubes, Vacutainer, Clear, 100/pk). ✓ Adjustable pipettor for sample dilutions – 1-200 μL range 
and 1000 μL range ✓ Disposable pipette tips ✓ Purified, filtered, distilled and/or DI water for 
recirculating pump head wash lines – changed weekly 
Additional items recommended, but not required (not provided by Trinity Biotech): 
✓ Reagent Side Trays (Left: 09-31-0010, Right: 09-31-0012) ✓ Autodiluter (capable of sampling 2 - 
100μL and dispensing 200 - 1000μL) ✓ Isopropyl Alcohol 

4.2 Reagent Use and Storage 


1. Reagents are ready to use 2. Store at room temperature 3. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed 
on the label 4. Reagents are stable for 30 days at room temperature after opening 5. Keep reagents capped 
while in use 6. Reagents should be clear & colourless – do not use if cloudy or discoloured 7. Do not 
pipette by mouth 8. Avoid contact with face & eyes 
All  unopened  reagents  are  stable  until  the  expiration  date  indicated  on  the  container.  Once  opened, 
Premier  Hb9210TM  Buffer  A  Reagent  and/or  Premier  Hb9210TM  Buffer  B  Reagent  are  stable  for  30 
days.  Do  not  ‘top-off’  Premier  Hb9210TM  Buffer  A  Reagent  or  Premier  Hb9210TM  Buffer  B  Reagent. 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  DIL Reagent and/or Premier Hb9210TM WASH Reagent are stable for 30 days. 
Keep reagent bottles capped when on the instrument or in storage. 
For detailed reagent installation instructions, see Section 8.2. 
Note  on Purified Water bottle for the Premier Hb9210TM: The function of this re-circulating liquid is that 
it  clears  out  the  backside  of  each  pump  head  of  pump seal debris, salts etc. As such, it does not affect the 
chemistry  in  that  it  never  comes  into  contact with the other reagents or the patient sample or the route the 
patient  sample  takes  through  the  instrument.  While  the  purified  water  will  not  have an impact on system 
chemistry, this should be changed on a weekly basis in order to prevent re-circulation of salt debris. 
3 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
4.3 Preparation of Haemoglobin HbA1c Calibrators and Controls 
4.3.1 Trinity Biotech Haemoglobin HbA1c Calibrators 
Directions for reconstitution of calibrators, their corresponding values and stability claims are found in 
the Trinity Biotech Haemoglobin HbA1c Calibrator Package Insert. 
The system needs to be recalibrated: 
1. When the instrument is initially installed 2. When a column is changed 3. If control values are out of 
the acceptable range stated on the package insert 4. When reference material changes values or lot 
numbers 
4.3.2 Trinity Biotech Haemoglobin HbA1c Controls 
Controls  in  the  normal  and  diabetic  ranges  should  be  included  in  each  batch  run  to  monitor  the 
performance  of  the  system.  Directions  for  reconstitution  of  controls  and  their  corresponding  target 
values/ranges are found in the Trinity Biotech Haemoglobin HbA1c Control Package Insert. 

4.4 Column Use and Storage 


1. If a column is not to be immediately installed, it should be stored in a refrigerator at 2° - 8°C. 2. Allow 
column to come to room temperature before installing on system. 3. If it is anticipated that the instrument 
will not be used for a period of 7 days or more, remove the column after deactivation. Cap each end, using 
the blue screw plugs provided with the column, and store at 2° - 8°C until ready for use. 4. Follow 
complete instructions found in chapter 6.2 for column installation. See section 4.4.3 below for a 
quick reference to column installation. 
4.4.1 General Column Information 
The  Trinity  Biotech  HbA1c  column  is  a  boronate  affinity  column used on our HPLC analyzers. We have 
high  standards  of  Quality  Assurance  for  acceptance  and  every  column  lot  is individually tested and must 
pass rigid criteria prior to shipment. 
4 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
Reagents and columns are for use with the Premier Hb9210TM only. Do not substitute columns or 
reagents from any other source/vendor. 
 
4.4.2 Column Storage 
The  columns  are  shipped at room temperature in packaging that gives protection from excessively high or 
low  temperatures  and  physical  damage.  Upon receipt of the column in the laboratory, the columns should 
be  refrigerated  before  installation  on  the  Premier Hb9210TM. Column refrigeration is also recommended 
when  the  instrument  is  not  in  use  for  over  7  days. The columns must be protected from freezing. When a 
new  column  is  to  be  installed  on  an  instrument,  the  old  column  should  be  removed  and  disposed  with 
biohazard waste. 
4.4.3 Column Installation 
When a column is changed, or a new column installed, the following quick steps will be displayed on 
screen: 
Figure 1: Column Change Instructions 
4.4.4 Column Use 
Proper  use  and  care  of the column includes software-guided start-up and shutdown of the instrument with 
the column in place. These two processes clean and prepare the column for use. The start-up optimizes the 
chemical  balance  in  the  column  and  the  shutdown  eliminates  impurities  and  salt  build-up  in  the  system 
and  the  column.  Any  shortcut  in  these  processes  may  reduce  the  life  of  a  column.  Even  in  the  busiest 
laboratories,  where  the  instrument  is  activated (running samples or at standby) for 24 hours per day, there 
should be a regular routine to go through start-up and shutdown once per day. 
5 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
Attach  the  tubing  in  a  manner  so  that  the  end  of  the  tubing  is  sealed  tightly  to  the  column  fitting.  It  is 
imperative that there are no void volumes between the end of the tubing and the column inlet or outlet. 
 
4.4.5 Summary 
Keeping  the  instrument  well  maintained  and  practicing  routine  daily  maintenance  will  ensure  that  the 
expected  life  of  the  column  is  met.  Laboratory  protocols  should  ensure  columns  are  not  changed  unless 
the  full  life  has  been  achieved.  As  always,  please  contact  Trinity  Biotech  or  your  local  support 
representative should you have any questions. 

4.5 Specimen Requirements 


4.5.1 Collection 
Whole  blood samples should be aseptically collected by venipuncture or capillary collection. EDTA is the 
preferred  anticoagulant.  While  Heparin  and  fluoride  are  also  acceptable,  the  use  of  other  anticoagulants 
on  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  is  not  recommended  –  for  further  information,  refer  to  Chapter  3  of  this 
manual. 
4.5.2 Patient Sample Storage Stability 
In  a  360  day  study  performed  for  the  Premier  Hb9210TM’s  FDA  510k  filing,  a  sample  stability  study 
with  Whole  blood  (and  associated  haemolysate)  specimens  at  3 different HbA1c levels were analyzed by 
the  Premier  Hb9210TM  boronate  affinity assay method on Day 0, then divided into aliquots stored at five 
different  temperatures  (37°C,  20-25°C,  2-8°C,  -20°C  and  -70°C)  for  analyses  on  subsequent  sampling 
intervals.  Acceptance  limits  are  considered  acceptable  if  results  fall  within  5%  bias  from  time  zero 
%HbA1c  result.  Any  sample  falling  outside  5%  mathematical  bias  from  time  zero  is  considered 
unacceptable. 
4.5.3 Premier Hb9210TM Sample Storage Stability Study 
Whole blood and haemolysate storage stability claims are listed in the table below: 
Sample Storage Temperature Sample type -70°C -20°C 2-8°C 
20-25°C 37°C Whole blood 360 Days 30 Days 30 Days 6 days 1 day Hemolysate 15 Days 10 Days 30 
Days 6 days 1 day 
Figure 2: Sample Storage Temperature Claims 
6 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
Stability Data 
Figure 3: Haemolysate Storage Stability 
Figure 4: Whole Blood Storage Stability 
4.5.4 Anaemic, Normal, pRBC and Washed RBC Sample Dilutions 
When  compared  to  a  normal  haematocrit  blood  sample,  on-line  (undiluted  blood  samples)  and  off-line 
(haemolysate  samples)  dilutions  of  samples  with  low  haemoglobin  concentration  (‘anaemic’  blood 
samples)  at  HbA1c  levels  of  29mmol/mol,  64  mmol/mol  and  80mmol/mol  (4.85%,  8.0%  and  9.5%)  can 
be  considered  equivalent  when  assayed  on  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  analyzer,  the bias on results from the 
same sample at normal haemoglobin concentration was less than 5%. 
When  compared  to  a  normal  haematocrit  blood  sample,  on-line  (undiluted  blood  samples)  and  off-line 
(haemolysate  samples)  dilutions  of  samples  with  high  haemoglobin concentration (pRBC blood samples) 
at  %HbA1c  levels  of  29mmol/mol,  64  mmol/mol  and  80mmol/mol  (4.85%,  8.0%  and  9.5%)  can  be 
considered  equivalent  when  assayed  on  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  analyzer,  the  bias  on  results  from  the 
same sample at normal haemoglobin concentration was less than 5%. 
When  compared  to  a  normal  haematocrit  blood  sample,  on-line  (undiluted  blood  samples)  and  off-line 
(haemolysate  samples)  dilutions  of  samples  with  high  haemoglobin  concentration  that  were washed with 
saline  (washed  pRBC  blood  samples)  at  %HbA1c  levels of 29mmol/mol, 64 mmol/mol and 80mmol/mol 
(4.85%,  8.0% and 9.5%) can be considered equivalent when assayed on the Premier Hb9210TM analyzer, 
the bias on results from the same sample at normal haemoglobin concentration was < 5%. 
7 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
4.5.5 Sample Racks 
The Premier Hb9210TM sample racks come in 3 bright colours so that they are easily distinguishable 
from one another. 
Figure 5: Premier Hb9210TM Sample Racks 
✓ White – Whole Blood Patient Samples ✓ Pink – Haemolysate Samples ✓ Yellow – Anaemic 
Samples 
To measure HbA1c, either mixed whole blood or packed red blood cells (pRBC's) may be used for 
on-line (instrument prepared) or off-line (hand pipette) dilutions. Packed red blood cells (pRBC’s) are 
defined as follows: 
✓ Blood samples settled naturally by gravity, not by centrifuge ✓ There is a uniformly clear plasma 
layer (golden colour) ✓ The pRBC layer is not brown in colour ✓ There is no evidence of lysed RBC’s 
(red colour in the plasma layer) ✓ The sample has a normal haematocrit (approximately half the sample 
height in the settled blood tube is 
pRBC (packed red blood cells), half the sample height is clear plasma ✓ The sample has no obvious 
clots, lipemia or other noticeable abnormalities (extremely lipemic samples can 
be washed 5 times with saline) 
Minimum Sample Volume: A minimum of 0.5mL haemolysate, 0.5mL packed red blood cells or 1mL 
mixed whole blood is typically required for analysis. 
8 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
The appropriate dilutions to be used with the Premier Hb9210TM are as follows: 
Whole Blood Sample Rack Function: 
✓  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  will  automatically  dilute  settled  whole  blood  samples  (including  anaemic 
patient  samples  with  a  sufficient-to-sample  pRBC  layer)  to  a  1:150 dilution when this particular function 
is chosen on the instrument. 
Haemolysate Sample Rack Dilution Requirements: 
Recommended haemolysate dilutions are as follows: 
✓ Anaemic Sample Haemolysate Preparation: 1:75 manual (off-line) dilution of a mixed whole blood 
tube of an 
anaemic sample ✓ Normal Sample Haemolysate Preparation: 1:150 manual (off-line) dilution of a 
mixed whole blood tube of an 
normal haematocrit sample ✓ pRBC Haemolysate Preparation: 1:300 manual (off-line) dilution of a 
non-mixed whole blood tube of an 
anaemic sample 
Anaemic Sample Rack Function: 
Anaemic  samples  feature  lower  red  blood  cell  counts  than  normal  haematocrit  patients,  as  such  the 
Premier  Hb9210TM  anaemic  rack  automatically  dilutes  non-settled  anaemic  patient  blood  samples  to  a 
1:75  dilution  in  order  to  facilitate  a  more  concentrated  sample  injection.  While  most  times,  an  anaemic 
sample can be analyzed in the whole blood rack if a sufficient-to-sample pRBC layer exists, there may not 
be  enough  pRBC’s  to  sample  (and the total area of the sample may not be above the minimum acceptable 
total  area).  In  this  case,  the  tube  can  be  mixed,  placed  in  the  Anaemic  rack,  then  this  rack  immediately 
analyzed.  The  anaemic  rack  dilution  parameter  increases the overall amount of sample taken for analysis. 
If  mixing  the  anaemic  sample  prior to placing in the anaemic rack yields a total area below the minimum, 
an  off-line  dilution  of  the  sample  is  required.  The  final  dilution  can  be  manually  adjusted to yield a total 
area within acceptable range of the instrument. 
9 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
4.5.6 Common Errors with Sample Tubes 
Common sample loading and sample type-related errors (and how to avoid them) on the Premier 
Hb9210TM are as follows: 
1. Whenever possible, place desired sample tube barcode sticker towards the left opening of the rack. 
2.  Do  not  place  whole  blood  samples  in  the  H  (haemolysate)  rack.  This  will  inject  a  non-diluted  sample 
into  the  system.  The  samples  total  area  will  be  above  maximum  acceptance  limits.  Perform  multiple 
baseline calibrations to wash system out and ensure a flat baseline. 
3.  Do  not  place  haemolysate  samples  in  the  W  (whole  blood)  or  A  (anaemic)  racks.  Placing  diluted 
samples  (haemolysates)  in  a  W  (whole  blood)  or  A  (anaemic)  rack  will  result  in  a  sample  that  is  too 
dilute. Ensure to utilize correct rack for each sample type. 
4.  Do  not  place  (or  allow)  more  than  3  barcode  stickers  on  a  sample  tube.  Too  many  stickers  on sample 
tube  can  lead  to  spatial  issues  when  attempting  to  place  in  a  sample  rack.  As  outlined  in  point  1,  the 
barcode sticker should be pre-aligned to the left so no tube rotation is required to read barcode sticker. 
5. Remove test tube septa (‘caps’) on the following sample types: 
a. Calibrator and Control samples b. Haemolysate samples that will be repeatedly sampled by the system 

4.6 Limitations of the Assay 


In addition to the interferents listed in Chapter 3, the following are limitations of the HbA1c assay: 
✓  Abnormal  RBC  Survival  -  Correct  HbA1c  analysis  depends  on  stable  haemoglobin  with  the  typical 
lifespan.  As  with all HbA1c analytical methodologies, patients with shortened RBC life, such as occurs in 
haemolytic  anaemias,  will  exhibit  decreased  HbA1c  values,  with  the  decreased  life span dependent upon 
the  severity  of  the  anaemia  and/or  the presence of unstable haemoglobins like Hb SS, Hb CC and Hb SC. 
Patients  with  extended  red  cell  life,  such  as  occurs  in  polycythemia  or  after  splenectomy,  may  exhibit 
increased  HbA1c  values.  Iron  deficiency anaemia may yield falsely high results. Glycated Plasma Protein 
(GPP) and/or fructosamine assays should be considered under such conditions. 
✓  Degraded  Samples  –  Do  not  freeze/thaw  samples  more  than  once.  Do  not  keep  samples  beyond  the 
sample  stability  data  shown  in  section  4.5.3  above.  Because  the  potential  exists  for  thawing  in  a 
“frost-free” freezer, when possible, avoid storage of specimens in a frost-free freezer. Frozen samples (-20 
to -80° C) should be examined for clarity. Haemolysates that appear cloudy or exhibit precipitation should 
be  filtered  (.45  micron)  or  centrifuged prior to analysis. This protects the instrument lines and extends the 
life  of  the frit and analytical column. If longer-term storage is required, each laboratory should investigate 
sample stability in its own facility. 
10 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
11 | Chapter 4 – Preparation for Operation Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 
Hardware Components 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Introduction ✓ Module Information ✓ Decontamination Protocol 
for Service & End of Life 
 
Chapter 5 – Hardware Components 
5.1 Introduction 
This  section  defines  environmental,  physical,  electrical  requirements,  system  description  and  basic 
operation  of  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  System,  which  is  comprised  of  the  Autosampler,  Pump,  Detector, 
and  CPU  for  data  handling  system.  All components of the Premier Hb9210TM are controlled through the 
Premier  Hb9210TM Application Software. System electrical requirements can be found in Chapter 1, Site 
Preparation. 
5.1.1 A Note on Using Manufacturer-Approved Replacement Parts 
Instruments  must  be  serviced  in  accordance  with  the  manufacturer’s  service  schedule  and  with  only 
manufacturer  approved  and  supplied  replacement  and  maintenance  parts  –  these  are  described  further  in 
this  chapter.  Any  changes  that  are  made,  or  applied,  outside  of  the  original  manufacturer’s  guidance  or 
service  schedule  represents  off-label  use  of  the  product  and  voids  all  warranties,  voids  the  product 
registration  and  clearance  status  and  becomes  the  legal  responsibility  of  the  site  and  persons  making  the 
unauthorized alterations to the medical device product. 
Figure 1: Premier Hb9210TM System 
1 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
5.2 Autosampler System 
The Autosampler System consists of a Sample Transport Module, the Probe Module and Injection Valve 
Module. 
5.2.1 Sample Transport Module Description (09-30-1300S) 
The  Sample  Transport  Module  is  designed  to  hold  a  maximum  of  21  racks  (each  linear  rack  holds  10 
sample  tubes).  There  are  3  sample  rack  types:  Whole  blood,  haemolysate  and  anaemic.  Each  is  brightly 
coloured, has a unique identification letter and number with corresponding barcode. 
• W is for whole blood, these racks are white with a Red identification tab. 
• H is for haemolysate (1:150 off-line dilution), these racks are coloured pink. 
• A is for anaemic (a more concentrated haemoglobin final dilution will be prepared automatically) and 
these racks are coloured yellow. 
Figure 2 below shows the transport module with the front cover removed 
Figure 2: Premier Hb9210TM Sample Transport Module 
All  racks  hold  standard  13x75mm  sample  tubes  with  septum  (BDTM  and  SarstedtTM  standard).  Whole 
blood  samples  do  not  need  to  be pre-mixed. The QC materials are held in a 5-position QC wheel for fully 
customizable within-run, repeated QC sampling of a single haemolysate preparation of each material 
2 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
Do  not  utilize  any  sample  racks  other  than  those  provided by Trinity Biotech. Failure to do so may cause 
sampling errors, sample identification errors, probe errors/damage and/or sample transport errors/damage. 
 
5.2.2 Probe Module Description (09-30-1620S) 
The  Probe  Module  (shown  in  Figure  3)  consists  of  a  septum  piercing  probe  and  an  integrated  sample 
preparation  station  (‘diving  board’).  The  probe  is  a  septum  piercing  probe  operating  in  the z-axis. Under 
the  probe, the sample preparation station moves in and out, allowing the probe to enter 4 distinct positions 
(starting from the back): 
1. Active Rinse Station (ARS) – Sample dilutions and probe rinsing occurs here. An integrated Premier 
Hb9210TM DIL reagent pump flushes the ARS between samples. 2. Injection Port – Once the diluted 
sample is obtained (either whole blood diluted in the rinse station or a manually prepared haemolysate 
sample), it is injected into the injection port which is connected to the sample loop. After the injection, the 
injection port tubing and the injection port top are rinsed out with Premier Hb9210TM DIL reagent in 
preparation for the next sample. 3. Probe guide – Steadies the probe while it samples blood tubes in the 
sample transport area and also aids in probe withdrawal from sample septum. 4. STAT Sample – Whole 
blood, haemolysate, anaemic whole blood or Sarstedt 13mm tubes, as chosen through the software 
interface 
Figure 3: Premier Hb9210TM Probe Module 
3 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
Do  not  remove  the  Probe  Module  from  analyzer  by  pulling  on  the  probe  needle  column.  Utilize  the 
handles on either side of the probe. Failure to do so may cause sampling errors. 
 
5.2.3 Injection Module Description (09-30-1900S) 
The  Injection  Module  consists  of  a  2-position  6-  port  injection  valve  with  5-μl  sample  loop  positioned 
vertically  (between  positions  #1  & #4). The sample loop allows the diluted blood sample to be introduced 
into  a  fixed  volume  sample  loop  at  low  pressure.  Upon  switching  the  valve,  the  pump  fluid  stream  is 
directed  through  the  loop  to  push  the  sample  into  the  column  and  detector.  After  several  seconds,  the 
sample  has  been  injected  and  the  valve  switches  back  in  order  for  the sample loop to be cleaned, and the 
next  sample  loaded.  The  sample  is  introduced  from  the  upper  left  side  (position  #2)  and  is  pre-  filtered 
before  entering  the  injection  valve  by  a  75μm  frit.  The  injection sample waste is expelled from the lower 
left  side  (position  #3),  the  reagents  from  the  pump  are  introduced  from  the  lower right side (position #5) 
and the sample frit and column pre-heater is connected at the upper right side (position #6). 
Figure 4: Injection Module Position Map 

5.3 Pump Module (09-30-2000S) 


5.3.1 System Description 
The  pump  is  a  microprocessor  controlled  binary  system  capable  of  delivering  gradient  reagent  profiles. 
On  analyzers  with  serial  numbers  prior  to  200734,  the  system  uses  a  Reagent  Manifold  to  automatically 
switch  to  Wash  reagent  to  flush  the  pumps,  tubing,  column,  and  flowcell  when  the  system  performs  an 
automated  shutdown.  On  analyzers  with  a  serial  number  of  200734  or  later,  the  gradient  is  delivered 
automatically without a Reagent Manifold. 
A  wash-channel  on  the  pump  head  helps  keep  the  pistons  clean  by  flushing  them  continually  as  the 
system  is  pumping.  A  static  mixing  tee  is  utilized  to  provide  mixing  of  the  reagents.  A  Syringe  Prime 
Valve is installed on the Pump Module in order to prime the system during the activation cycle. 
Figure 5: Premier Hb9210TM Pump Module 
4 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
5.4 Oven Module (09-30-1800S) 
5.4.1 System Description 
The  Oven  Module  is  located  above  the  Injection  Valve.  The  column  heater  ensures  steady  boronate 
affinity column temperature. At the left of the oven is a cylindrical heat exchanger containing ≈ 0.5 meters 
of 0.010”I.D. tubing to pre-heat the incoming reagent. The oven module is shown in Figure 6. 
5.4.2 Performance Specifications 
✓ Temperature Range: 30-70°C ✓ Temperature Stability: ±0.2°C ✓ Temperature Repeatability: ±0.5°C 
✓ Temperature Accuracy: ±0.5°C ✓ Safety Cutout: 70°C 
Figure 6: Premier Hb9210TM Oven Module, Closed (left) & Open (right) 

5.5 Detector Module (09-30-1700S) 


5.5.1 Detector Description 
The  detector  is  an  LED-based microprocessor controlled wavelength absorbance detector. The LED lamp 
is  set  at  the  appropriate  wavelength  for  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  System  operation  (413  ±2nm).  The 
detector  has  sensitivity  range  of  0.001  to  2.0  AUFS  (Absorbance  Units,  Full  Scale).  The  detector  is 
controlled via the Premier Hb9210TM Application Software. 
✓ For detector maintenance steps, refer to 
section 8.4 of this manual. 
Figure 7: Premier Hb9210TM Detector Module 
5 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
5.6 CPU Module (09-30-1500S) 
5.6.1 Data Handling Description 
The data handling system consists of a CPU, colour touch screen monitor, printer, and a handheld barcode 
gun  combined with the Premier Hb9210TM Application Software. The CPU is running with a Windows 7 
or  XPTM-embedded  operating  system.  A  complete  description  of  the  operation  of  the  Software  can  be 
found in Chapter 6 of this manual. 
5.6.2 Physical Characteristics Due to the rapidly changing nature of today’s computer, specific parameters 
will not be included in this manual. If you require information on your specific computer, please contact 
Trinity Biotech or your local support team. 
✓  For  steps  on  aligning  the  touch  screen  monitor  responsiveness,  please  refer  to  sections  the 
Troubleshooting section of this manual. 
Figure 8: Premier Hb9210TM Data Handling System (with covers removed to show CPU module) 
6 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
Do  not  utilize  software  that  is  not  supplied  by  Trinity  Biotech on your Premier Hb9210TM system. CPU 
resource  issues  and/or  malicious  software  routines  (‘viruses’)  can introduce errors in system operation. If 
there are any questions, contact Trinity Biotech or your local support representative. 
 
5.7 Barcode Readers 
5.7.1 Manual Barcode Reader Gun 
The barcode reader gun is used for scanning in of barcoded consumables. This information can also be 
manually inputted if required – for further details please refer to the Software section of this manual. 
The barcode reader gun can be installed by simply connecting the USB to the 4-port USB hub on the 
Premier Hb9210TM Also supplied is an optional stand for the barcode gun. 
Part Numbers: 
Barcode Scanner – 09-31-0011 
Stand for Barcode Reader – 09-31-0013 
Figure 9: Barcode Gun 
7 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
5.7.2 Automatic Barcode Reader Assembly (on Sample Transport) 
The  barcode  reader on the sample transport identifies the sample rack type (H – Haemolysate, W – Whole 
Blood  or  A  –  Anaemic)  and  also  identifies  the  sample  ID  from  the  barcode  label  on  the  sample  tube. 
Figure  10  shows  the  correct  (and  incorrect)  alignment  of  the  barcode  reader  on  the sample barcode label 
(example A is the only correct read). 
Contact  your  Technical  Service  Representative  to  optimize  barcode  and  rack  alignment  if  sample 
barcodes  are  not  being  correctly  identified.  When  the  barcode  reader is properly aligned and the test tube 
barcode sticker is visible on the left side of the rack, the read rate is typically >95%. 
Figure 10: Examples of Correct & Incorrect Barcode Reader Alignment 
5.7.3 Barcode Sticker Application 
Barcode  stickers  should  be  affixed  to  the  sample  tube  vertically.  Diagonal  placement  or  a  barcode  label 
with  wrinkles  could  result  in  reading  errors.  It  is  also  important  that  proper  printing  specifications  be 
followed  for  barcode  labels.  If  you  have  further  questions  about  printing  resolution  for  your  barcode 
labels, contact your printer manufacturer. 
The  barcode  label  should  be  placed  more  than 20mm from the bottom of the tube and with about 5mm of 
space  above  the  tube.  Barcodes  should  not exceed 75mm in length. Dimensions of proper barcode sticker 
placement are shown in Figure 11. 
Figure 11: Barcode Label Placement Dimensions 
8 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
9 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 

5.8 Automatic Debubblers & Waste Pump 


Instruments from serial number 200734 onwards will have the following hardware additions: 
5.8.1 Automatic Debubblers 
The  Auto-debubblers  eliminate  the  need  for  manual  debubbling  as  part  of  periodic  operator  maintenace. 
The manual debubblers are no longer present directly under each Pump Head inlet. 
The  Auto-debubbling  function  occurs  automatically  after  the  system  is  primed  either  during  system 
activation  or  manually  through  the  analyser  software.  The  new  Auto-debubblers  are  located  under  the 
Right Side Panel, as shown in Figure 12. 
Figure 12: Auto-debubbler Hardware 
 
5.8.2 Waste Pump 
The  automatic  Waste  Pump  hardware  eliminates  the  need  for  a  gravity-driven  waste  system.  The  Waste 
Pump  automatically  triggers  on  every  time  the  Active  Rinse  Station  has  been  activated.  The  new 
automatic Waste Pump hardware is located under the Rear Lower Panel, as shown in Figure 13. 
Figure 13: Waste Pump Hardware 
10 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
5.9 Decontamination Protocol for Service and End of Life Disposal 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  system  should  be  decontaminated  prior  to  service,  shipping  or  end  of  life 
disposal.  Please  complete  the  decontamination  prior  to  servicing.  Unless  specified,  the  Service  Engineer 
will still need to follow all biohazard precautions, as usual. 
The decontamination process is as follows: 
1. Prior to cleaning, utilize the appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), such as gloves, face 
shield/goggles and a lab coat. 2. Clean probe and injection port area with 70% (or higher) alcohol 
swab. Dispose swab in biohazard collection 
container. 3. Wipe down external surfaces with cleaning solution (a 10% solution of household bleach 
in warm tap water – made less than 7 days prior) and allow to air dry. When cleaning, paying close 
attention to high-touch areas, including: 
a. Touch screen b. Keyboard c. Sample transport area 
d. External covers e. Barcode scanner f. Sample racks 
4. Perform a manual enzyme cleaning routine (if applicable), then send system through a standard 
shutdown/deactivation. 
For  End  of  Life  Disposal,  return  module(s)  and/or  instrument  to  your  distributor,  according  to  WEEE 
directive  2012/19/EU,  if  applicable.  The  Waste  Electrical  and  Electronic  Equipment  Directive  (WEEE 
Directive)  is the European Community directive 2012/19/EU on waste electrical and electronic equipment 
(WEEE)  which,  together  with  the  RoHS  Directive  2012/19/EU,  became  European  Law  in  August  2012, 
setting collection, recycling and recovery targets for all types of electrical goods. 
The important guidelines for the WEEE directive are as follows: 
1.  The  requirement  not  to  dispose  of  WEEE  as  unsorted  municipal  waste  and  to  collect  such  WEEE 
separately; 
2. That return and collection systems are available 
by your Trinity Biotech distributor; 
3.  That  each  laboratory  has  a  role  in  contributing  to  reuse,  recycling  and  other  forms  of  recovery  of 
WEEE; 
4.  That  there  are  potential  effects  on  the  environment  and  human  health  as  a  result  of  the  presence  of 
potentially hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment; 
5.  That  the  symbol  shown  below  means  to  not  dispose  of  any  parts  of  this  item  in  unsorted  municipal 
waste and that this device contains WEEE that should be specially collected. 
Figure 14: WEEE Directive Symbol 
11 | Chapter 5 – Hardware Components Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 
Software & Operation 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Start Up ✓ Preparation for 
Patient Sample Runs ✓ Menus & Software 
Tools ✓ Data Directories 
 
Chapter 6 – Software & Operation 
6.1 Introduction & Start Up 
The  software  for  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  is  controlled  through  a  Microsoft  Windows  7  or  XPTM 
embedded  program  especially  designed  for  Trinity  Biotech  HbA1c  analysis.  The  software  is installed on 
the hard drive of the computer system and all analysis information is also stored there. 
6.1.1 Definitions 
Click – On the computer screen, go to (or on top of) the subject with the (on-screen mouse pointer) and 
click once with the left mouse button or tap once on the touch screen with your finger. 
Double-Click – Go to the subject with the (on-screen mouse pointer) and quickly click twice with the left 
mouse button or quickly tap twice on the touch screen with your finger. 
Right-Click – On the computer screen, go to (or hover over) the subject with the (on-screen mouse 
pointer) and click once with the right mouse button. There is no touch-screen function for right click. 
After  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  is  initially  installed;  a  Trinity  Biotech  or  local  support  technical  service 
representative  will  assist  with  the  initial  start-up.  All  of  the  following  ‘edit’  screens  are readily available 
through  the  software  if  any  variables  need  to  be  modified  after  installation.  They  will  also  be  revisited 
whenever software updates are installed. 
Once  the  instrument  has  been  powered  up,  and  software  installed,  the  Trinity  Biotech  or  local  technical 
service representative will open the Premier icon located on the desktop (shown in Figure 1). 
Figure 1: Premier Hb9210TM desktop icon 
1 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
Do  not  utilize  software  that  is  not  supplied  by  Trinity  Biotech on your Premier Hb9210TM system. CPU 
resource  issues  and/or  malicious  software  routines  (‘viruses’)  can introduce errors in system operation. If 
there are any questions, contact your Trinity Biotech representative. 
 
The  password  screen  will  appear  once  the  program  is  launched,  and  will  continue to appear any time the 
program  is  opened,  or  following  deactivation.  Enter  your  password  and  continue  to  the  installation 
screens. 
✓ Enter your password. If you have not assigned a password yet, the default password is 7235. ✓ Touch 
or click the green checkmark on 
dialogue below to continue: 
Figure 2: Login Prompt 

6.2 Installation Screens 


When  the  Premier  Hb9210TM software launches for the first time, a number of dialogue boxes will allow 
you to edit system variables before analysis of patient samples will be able to occur. 
✓ Touch or click the green checkmark on 
dialogue below to continue: 
Figure 3: New Software Installed Dialogue 
2 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Enter the desired Run Parameters in the Run Parameters dialogue box (shown in Figure 4). 
✓ Touch or click the green checkmark to 
continue. 
Figure 4: Run Parameters Dialogue 
✓ Enter desired System Parameters in the System Parameters dialogue box (shown in Figure 5). 
✓ Touch or click the green 
checkmark to continue. 
Figure 5: System Parameters Dialogue 
3 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  In  the  Lot  Numbers  dialogue  box,  using  the  barcode  gun,  or  by  means  of  manual  type-  entry,  enter 
current lot number information. 
✓  Each  Premier  Hb9210TM  HbA1c  analytical  column,  Trinity  Biotech  package  insert  for  Calibrators 
and  Controls  and  each  Premier  Hb9210TM  reagent  bottle  have  a  unique  barcode  to  facilitate  quick  and 
easy input of set points and lot number information. 
Figure 6: Column Lot Number Entry Dialogue 
4 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ When column barcode is scanned, the quick steps in Figure 7 will be displayed on screen: 
Figure 7: Column Change Instructions 
✓  Across  the  top  are  various  tabs  for  each  consumable  item  with  a  lot  number.  Once  done  entering  lot 
numbers press the green check mark to save and exit. 
Figure 8: Calibrator Lot Number Entry Dialogue 
5 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  To  use  the  barcode  gun,  select  the  barcode  icon  on-  screen  and  proceed  to  scan the required barcode. 
For  customers using third-party HbA1c calibrators and/or controls, values can be entered manually for the 
user-determined set points and range. 
Figure 9: Control Lot Number Entry Dialogue 
✓ The dialog boxes for the lot number screens are shown in Figures 10 to 14. 
Figure 10: Buffers A & B Lot Number Entry Dialogue 
6 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Upon successful barcode entry of the first reagent, the system will display the following dialog box 
Figure 11: Reagent Bottle Change Instructions 
Figure 12: Diluent Lot Number Entry Dialogue 
7 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
Figure 13: Wash Lot Number Entry Dialogue 
✓ Lot Numbers Log: A historical list of lot numbers are kept in the Lot Numbers Log. 
Figure 14: Lot number Entry Log 
8 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ In the Control Scheme dialogue box, choose desired method of running in-run Control Material 
✓ Touch or click the green 
checkmark to continue. 
Figure 15: Control Scheme Dialogue 
✓ The main Premier Hb9210TM assay screen will appear as soon as all system variables have been 
entered. Click 
on the Main Menu (User Interface) icon on the toolbar; upper left icon highlighted in Figure 16 below. 
Figure 16: Main Assay Screen 
9 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ From the Main Menu screen, 
touch or click the ‘Edit’ button. 
Figure 17: Main Menu Selection 
✓ From the Edit Menu screen, touch or click on the Peak Analysis & Results Codes icon. 
Figure 18: Edit Menu - Peak Analysis & Results Codes Selection 
10 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  The  Peak  Analysis  & Results Codes dialogues are designed to assist the operator in alerting him/her to 
potential  issues  with  both  patient  sample  runs  as  well  as  calibration  runs.  While  a  number  of  Peak 
Analysis  &  Results  Codes  values  are  user-definable,  a  number  cannot  be  amended  from  the  default 
settings  and  accordingly  will  not  be  amendable.  There  are  two  PARC  dialogues,  Calibration  Run  and 
Samples Run, and these can be used to define parameters for the appropriate analytical runs. 
✓ Default values, appropriate for software versions, will be loaded. The icon at the lower left of the menu 
(highlighted in Figure 19) can be used to reset defaults if values are incorrectly changed. 
Figure 19: Reset to Defaults Icon 
✓ Touch or click the green checkmark to continue. 
Figure 20: Peak Analysis & Results Codes Dialogue (Patient Samples) 
11 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
12 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
Figure 21: Peak Analysis & Results Codes Dialogue (Calibration Run) 
The next sections will aide you through an initial Background & System Calibration. Upon completion of 
the Baseline and HbA1c Calibrations, the Premier Hb9210TM will be ready to run analysis of patient 
samples. 
 
6.3 Preparation for Patient Sample Runs 
6.3.1 Activate System 
✓  Return  to  the  Main  Menu  screen.  To  do  this,  touch  or  click  the  ‘Return  to  Main  Menu’  icon  in  the 
bottom right of the Edit Menu (shown in Figure 22). 
Figure 22: Return to Main Menu Icon 
✓ From the Main Menu screen, touch or click on the Operation icon. 
Figure 23: Main Menu - Operation Selection 
13 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
The  Trinity  Biotech  Premier  Hb9210TM  features  an automatic sampling and injection system that allows 
full walk-away capability following the commencement of an analysis run. 
 
14 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
✓ From the Operation Menu screen, touch or click the Activate System icon. 
Figure 24: Operation Menu - Activate System Selection 
✓  If  the  message  in  Figure  25  appears,  scan  in  appropriate  lot  numbers.  To  continue,  select  the  green 
checkmark. 
Figure 25: Scan Lot Numbers Dialogue 
✓  If  from  the  Run  Parameters  window  a  Calibration  Reminder  has  been  activated,  the  system  will 
prompt the operator to run a calibration. 
Figure 26: Calibration Reminder Dialogue 
 
6.3.2 System Calibration 
✓ Upon completion of the System Activation, the Premier Hb9210TM will be in Standby mode. ✓ 
Return to the Main Menu by touching or clicking the ‘Show User Interface’ button on the top left of the 
main 
Premier Hb9210TM assay screen. ✓ From the Main Menu screen, select the ‘Operation’ icon. ✓ 
From the Operation Menu, select the ‘Run Calibration’ option shown below. This process includes a 
baseline noise calibration to cancel out any system noise (e.g. Pumps, other vibrations) from the final 
chromatography. 
Figure 27: Operation Menu - Run Calibration Selection 
✓ The Calibration Run dialogue shown in Figure 28. NOTE: The 1x option has been disabled. Only the 
2x and 
3x options are available (for improved calibration accuracy). 
15 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
Calibration of the Premier Hb9210TM is fully automated and calibration can be initiated with the touch of 
a  button.  Once  a  calibration  run  has  been  initiated  Calibrators  loaded  on  the  QC  wheel,  as  well  as 
Baseline  noise  calibrations,  are  used  to  establish  appropriate  analytical  conditions  for  optimal  sample 
results. 
 
✓  By  selecting  the  Run  Controls  Only  option,  the  system  will simply run Control I, then Control II (and 
not the calibrators). 
✓  For  information  on  the Peak Analysis & Result Codes that ensure improper calibration is alerted to the 
operator, please refer to section 9.3.2. 
Figure 28: Run Calibration Confirmation Dialogue 
16 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
17 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
6.3.3 Baseline Calibration 
✓ Although baseline noise cancelation is included in each Calibration run, Operators also have the option 
to run an independent Baseline Calibration should their local protocol require it, or as part of any 
troubleshooting or maintenance activities. ✓ Return to Main Menu by touching / clicking ‘Show User 
Interface’ button on top left of the main Premier Hb9210TM assay screen. ✓ From Main Menu screen, 
select the ‘Operation’ icon. ✓ From Operation Menu, select the ‘Run Baseline’ option shown in Figure 
29. 
Figure 29: Operation Menu - Run Baseline Selection 
The Baseline Run dialogue is shown in Figure 30. 
Figure 30: Run Baseline Confirmation Dialogue 
 
Once the Run Baseline button has been selected, the Premier will perform 3 Re-equilibration injections 
and 2 Baseline calibration injections. 
See Figure 31 for an example of what a baseline injection will look like on-screen. 
Figure 31: On-screen Baseline Report 
18 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
Do  not  be  alarmed  if  the  baseline  is  not  completely  flat.  The  baseline  movement  is  caused  by  system  noise  (eg. 
Pumps,  other  vibrations) and is picked up by the detector. The purpose of running a baseline is to calibrate this noise 
out of the final chromatography. 
 
6.3.4 Load Racks 
Figure 32: Load Racks Icon 
✓  If  running  more  than  11  racks  of  samples,  the  Load  Racks  icon  highlighted  in  Figure  32  can  be 
selected.  This  will  allow racks loaded in the front to be transported to the back to facilitate further loading 
of racks. 
Figure 33: Load Racks Dialogue 
6.3.5 Patient Sample Run 
To start an automated Patient Sample run: 
✓ From the Main Menu screen, touch or click the ‘Operation’ icon. 
✓ From the Operation Menu, select the ‘Run Samples’ option shown in Figure 34. 
Figure 34: Operation Menu - Run Samples Selection 
19 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
When  running  samples  without barcodes (identified as ‘noID’ samples in software), the end of run (EOR) 
tube  needs  to  be  inserted  after  the  last  sample.  If  the  operator  wants  to  re-use  the  same  racks  during  a 
batch  run,  no  EOR  tube  is  needed.  The  racks  can  be  refilled  with  new  samples,  which  will  then  be 
injected onto the column and the instrument will continue to record data. 
 
✓  Prior  to  commencing  a  patient  sample run, successful baseline calibration and system calibration must 
be  carried  out.  Further  to  this,  QC  material  must  be  analysed  and  demonstrated  to  be within the package 
insert values inputted into the system. 
✓  When  Control  Values  are  acceptable,  patient  whole  blood  samples  are  now ready to be analyzed. The 
Run Samples dialogue is shown in Figure 35. 
✓ Select an End of Run Status (either Stand by or Shutdown) by selecting either of the radio buttons. 
✓  NOTE:  the  Est.  #  of  injections  to  run  field  informs  the  operator  as to how many injections can be run 
based  on  the  current  estimated  reagent  levels,  i.e.  how  many  can  be  run  before  a  reagent  change  is 
required. 
Figure 35: Run Samples Confirmation Dialogue 
Figure 36: Example of Final Chromatogram from the Main Assay Screen 
✓ The last chromatogram of the Sample Run is shown on screen, as shown in Figure 36. 
20 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
6.3.6 Automated Operator Assistant 
The  Automated  Operator  Assistant,  in  the  top  right  corner  of  the  Run  Samples  dialogue  –  is designed to 
improve  laboratory  efficiency.  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  operator  is  able  to  begin  their  daily routine with 
only  navigating  to  one  application  software  menu  –  Activation,  running  a  System  Calibration  (which 
includes Baseline runs) & beginning a patient sample run can commence with the touch of a button. 
When  initiating  a  system  run,  the  Operator  can  automatically  select  System  Activation,  System 
Calibration  &  Begin  Sample  Run  from  the  options  to  right  of  the  ‘Run  Samples’  dialogue  as  shown  in 
Figure 37. 
✓  For  information  on  the  Peak Analysis & Result Codes that ensure improper sample chromatography is 
alerted to the operator, please refer to the Troubleshooting section of this manual. 
Figure 37: Automated Operator Assistant Dialogue 
21 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
6.4 Deactivate System/Exit Application 
The system must be INACTIVE to exit application. The end of run status can be set at the beginning of 
each run. To deactivate the system from the STANDBY condition: 
✓ From the Main Menu screen, touch or click the ‘Operation’ icon. 
✓ From the Operation Menu, select the ‘Deactivate System’ option shown below. 
Figure 38: Operation Menu - Deactivate System Selection 
Figure 39: Auto-Deactivation Specifications 
✓  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  can  also  be  automatically  deactivated  at  a  specific  time  of  day  or  after  a 
specified amount of time in Standby Mode. This can be customized in the Run Parameters dialogue. 
22 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Once  the  system  is  INACTIVE,  to  exit  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  application,  from  the  Main  Menu, 
select the ‘Exit Application’ button. 
Figure 40: Operation Menu - Exit Application Selection 
✓ Click the green checkmark to 
exit the application. 
Figure 41: Exit Application Dialogue 
This concludes the Introduction & Start-Up routine in order to be able to begin to run patient samples. 
The next section will outline the remaining sections of the Graphic User Interface. 
23 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
24 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 

6.5 Other Menus & Software Tools 


6.5.1 Operation Menu 
The Operation Menu & all of its corresponding options can be found below. 
✓  Activate  System  –  Activates  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  Analyzer  to  prepare for patient sample analysis. 
Effectively  equilibrates  the  column  to  reach  optimal conditions for chemistry to occur. Current activation 
time is 25 minutes. 
✓  Deactivate  System  –  Deactivates  the  Premier  Hb9210TM Analyzer. Pumps Wash Reagent throughout 
the  system  in  order  to  remove  any  salt  residues  and  to  prepare  the  column for overnight storage. Current 
deactivation time is 20 minutes. 
Figure 42: Operation Menu 
✓  Emergency  Stop  –  An  ‘Emergency  Stop’  will  send  the  Premier  to  INACTIVE  mode.  In  order  to 
perform  an  Emergency  Stop,  touch  or  click  the  red  octagonal  button  shown  below  in  Figure  44.  This 
button  is  only  used  as  emergency  stop  if  the  Premier is at Standby. If the Premier is running samples, the 
button  is  primarily  used  as  an  ‘Abort  Run’  function  –  the  ‘Abort  Run’  function  will  send  the  system  to 
Standby  mode,  from  which  an  ‘Emergency  Stop’  can  then  be  performed.  Emergency  Stop  is  also 
available from the Operation Menu (see Figure 43). 
Figure 43: Emergency Stop Button – Operation Menu 
 
Figure 44: Emergency Stop Button - Main Assay Screen Selection 
✓ Click OK on dialogue below to have System 
Perform an Emergency Stop. 
Figure 45: Emergency Stop Confirmation Dialogue 
✓ Run Samples – See Section 6.3.5 
✓  Run  STAT  Samples  –  The  STAT  sample  position is located on the end of the probe module’s moving 
arm (also containing the injection port and sample mixing station) 
Within  a  run,  the  user  is  able  to run a STAT sample. When this is selected, analysis of the current sample 
will  be  completed  before  the  STAT  sample is immediately run. Only one patient name can be entered per 
STAT  sample  analysis.  To  do  so,  the  user  needs  to  select the STAT Sample icon from the main software 
screen,  or  from  the  Operation Menu. It is notated by an ambulance, as shown in Figure 46. Once selected, 
the following screen will appear: 
25 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
Figure 46: STAT Sample Icon 
 
Figure 47: STAT Sample Dialogue 
✓  Abort  Run  -  In  order  to  abort  a  patient  sample  run,  touch  or  click  the  red  octagonal  button  shown 
below.  The  Premier  will  finish  the  current  sample  being  analyzed  and  then  go  to  Standby.  Selecting  the 
red octagonal button twice will result in an ‘Emergency Stop’ (see ‘Emergency Stop’ above). 
✓ There is also an Abort Run option in the 
Operation menu, as shown in Figure 48. 
Figure 48: Abort Run Icon - Operation Menu 
Figure 49: Abort Run Button - Main Assay Screen Selection 
26 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
Figure 50: Abort Run Confirmation Dialogue 
✓ Run Calibration – See Section 6.3.2 
✓ Run Baseline – See Section 6.3.3 
6.5.2 Edit Menu 
The Edit Menu & all of its corresponding options can be found below. 
✓ Run Parameters – See Section 6.2 
✓ System Parameters – See Section 6.2 
✓ Lot Numbers – See Section 6.2 
✓ Control Scheme – See Section 6.2 
✓ Peak Analysis & Results Code - See 
Section 6.2 
Figure 51: Edit Menu 
27 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Inventory  Checklist  –  The  Inventory  Checklist  is  designed  to  aid  in  keeping  a  regular  tab  on  your 
consumables  inventory.  Keeping  an  updated  Inventory  Checklist  will  assist  in  seamless  monthly 
inventory  transitions.  Addition  of  inventory  items can be done by touching or clicking the ‘+’ button, and 
deletions  are  done  by  touching  or  clicking  the ‘-’ button. The Inventory Checklist is printable, and can be 
quite helpful in monitoring inventory levels. 
✓ By printing an inventory report a column report is generated with information on 
Figure 52: Inventory Checklist Dialogue 
the number of injection type carried out by the Operator. 
6.5.3 View Menu 
The View Menu & all of its corresponding options can be found below. 
Figure 53: View Menu 
28 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Batch  –  Allows  the  user  to  view  results  using  the  batch  number  as  their  means  of  reference.  While 
previous  batches  cannot  be  viewed  during  sample  analysis  samples  from  the  current  batch  can  be 
reviewed while analysis is still ongoing. 
Figure 55: Batch Icon - View Menu 
Figure 54: View Batch Drop-Down Menu 
✓ Search Results – Allows the user to search for results by using either a sample ID or the date in which 
the 
sample was run. Results can then be viewed, printed, or transmitted to an external device. 
Figure 56: Search Results Dialogue 
29 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Levey-Jennings  Report  –  The  Levey-Jennings  Report  catalogues  your  historical  QC  data  for  future 
review.  The  Report  is  helpful  in  gaining  a  snapshot  of  how  your  instrument  has  been  performing  over 
specified  time  periods,  or  for  specific  lots  of  QC  Material.  The  data  can  be  printed,  or  transferred  to  an 
external device from this screen. 
Figure 57: Levey-Jennings Plot 
30 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Transmit  Data  to  LIS  –  This  menu  allows  the  user  to  transmit  data  to  a  Laboratory  Information 
System.  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  transmits  to  LIS  unidirectionally  and  bidirectionally  using  ASTM 
protocols. 
Figure 58:Transmit Data to LIS Dialogue 
✓  Interface  Language  -  The  Operator  is  able  to  set  up  their  Premier  Hb9210TM  in  any of the following 
languages:  English,  Brazilian  Portuguese,  Chinese,  Danish,  French,  German,  Italian,  Latin-American 
Spanish, Russian, Spanish (Spain) & Turkish. 
Figure 59: Language Interface Selection Buttons 
31 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Copy  Files  –  The  Copy  Files  menu  allows  the  user  to  copy  data  to  a  desired  location  on  the  Premier 
Hb9210TM PC or to an external device. 
Figure 60: Copy Files Dialogue 
✓ Activity Log – The Activity Log chronicles all user carried out actions executed on the instrument. 
Figure 61: Activity Log 
32 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Maintenance Log – The Maintenance Log allows the Operator to view all maintenance activities 
logged in the 
system via the Maintenance Log input icon in the Devices Menu. 
Figure 62: Maintenance Log 
6.5.4 Devices Menu 
Figure 63: Devices Menu 
33 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
The  Devices  Menu  is  primarily  used  by  Field  Service  Engineers  and  should  only  be  utilised  by  users 
experienced  in  its  use,  or  under  the  supervision  of  a  Trinity  Biotech,  or  local  technical  support 
representative. The Devices Menu and all of its corresponding options can be found below. 
✓  Pumps/Solvent  Control  –  The  Pumps  button  will  bring  up  the  Solvent  Control  screen.  The  flow  rate 
and gradient of Buffers A, B, and Wash can be chosen from this screen, or amount of purge time needed. 
Figure 64: Devices Menu - Pumps Button 
Figure 65: Devices Menu - Pumps Button - Solvent Control Dialogue 
✓  Pumps/Purge  Pumps  –  The  Purge  Pumps  dialog  box  allows  air  bubbles  to  be  purged  from the bottles 
through  the  pump  heads.  This  dialog  box  appears  whenever  reagents  Buffer  A,  Buffer  B  or  WASH  are 
changed. 
Figure 66: Devices Menu - Pumps Button - Purge Pumps Dialogue 
34 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Oven – The Oven button allows the user to turn 
the Oven Module on, off, or to reset the device. 
Figure 67: Devices Menu - Oven Button 
✓ Detector – The Detector button allows the user to Reset, Zero Output, and Start/Stop Data Acquisition. 
Figure 68: Devices Menu - Detector Button 
35 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Autosampler – A number of different functions can be performed via the Autosampler button. These 
functions are listed below: 
Figure 69: Devices Menu - Autosampler Button 
- Reset – Resets the Autosampler, and is typically used for technical service purposes - Load Syringe – 
Performs 1 Syringe aspiration to allow plunger to be disconnected, then pushed into glass barrel, then 
syringe unscrewed at top. Installation performed in reverse, press RESET to complete syringe installation. 
- Switch Valve – Switches the Injection Valve from Load to Inject. A troubleshooting utility designed to 
aid 
in clearing debris from the Injection Valve - Prime Diluter – Primes the dilution chamber where 
patient whole blood samples are diluted and lysed for 
analysis - Prime Rinse Station – Primes the rinse station - Cycle Racks – Cycles any racks present on 
the sample transport through to the front of the Autosampler - Control Wheel Check – Checks to make 
sure control wheel is in home position - Waste Pump – Allows Operators to turn on/off the Waste Pump 
to purge waste from the system manually 
36 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Barcode Reader – Turns the Barcode Reader on 
or off. 
Figure 70: Devices Menu - Barcode Reader Button 
Figure 71: Devices Menu - Commander Button 
✓  Maintenance  Log  –  Allows  operators  log  any  maintenance  activities  that  have been carried out on the 
system. 
✓  Commander  –  Should  only  be  utilised  by  users  experienced  in  its  use,  or  under  the  supervision  of  a 
Trinity  Biotech,  or  local  technical  support  representative.  The  Commander  allows  users  to  directly 
command instrument to undertake certain tasks without going through the Software Program. 
37 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
6.5.5 Help Menu 
The Help Menu & all of its corresponding options can be found below. 
Figure 72: Help Menu 
✓ User Manual – Links the user to an electronic copy of the Premier Hb9210TM Operator’s Manual. 
✓  Contact  Info  –  Provides  general  contact info for Trinity Biotech Technical Service Representatives, as 
well as empty fields for supplementary entry of helpful phone numbers. 
Figure 73: Help Menu - Contact Info Dialogue 
38 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  About  –  The  About  Menu  button  provides  the  following  information  (appropriate  for  each  GUI 
software version): 
• Software version 
• Middleware version 
• Column Injection Count 
• System Injection Count 
Figure 74: Help Menu - About Dialogue 
6.5.6 Exit Application 
The Exit Application button outputs can be found in Figure 75. 
Figure 75: Exit Application 
39 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
✓  Touching  or  clicking  on  the  Exit  Application  button  will  end  the  user  session  of  the  Premier 
Hb9210TM. The below screen will appear if this button is touched or clicked: 
Note: The system must be inactive before exiting the program. Figure 76: Exit Application Confirmation 
dialogue 

6.6 Directory Structure 


This  software  uses  two  main  sub-directories  for  program  locations  and  data  archive, 
“C:\PREMIER\GHB\DATA”  and  “C:\PREMIERARCH”. Programs used for running of this software and 
data  storage  of  recent  batches  of  data  are  located  in  the  “C:\PREMIER\GHB”  sub-directory.  Long  term 
archival  storage  of  batch  data  is  located  in  the  “C:\PREMIERARCH\GHB”  sub-directory.  Note:  all 
batches  except  the  newest  100  are  automatically  archived.  Breakdown  of each sub-directory and the type 
of files they contain are as follows: 
C:\PREMIER – System drivers and programs and files that are common to many versions of our software 
platforms are located in this sub-directory. 
C:\PREMIER\GHB – Programs and files that are specific to this version of assay are located in this 
sub-directory. 
C:\PREMIER\GHB\DATA – Recent data from the analysis of the samples are located in this 
sub-directory. 
C:\GHBARCH – Only contains sub-directories of the long-term archival storage of batch data. 
C:\GHBARCH\2015 – Only contains sub-directories of each year’s batch data. The name of this example 
sub- directory represents the 4-character year in which the data is from. 
C:\GHBARCH\2015\20150103  through  C:\GHBARCH\2015\20150408  –  Examples  of  sub-directories 
that  contain  each  days  batch  data  (January  03,  2015  through  April  08,  2015).  The  name  of  this  example 
sub-  directory  represents  the  4-character year, 2-character month, and 2-character day in which the data is 
from. 
The individual batches run on the selected date are contained in the folder. 
40 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
6.7 Copying from the GHbArch Folder (the archive folder) 
In order to be able to reprint or recalculate data older than the last 100 Batch Summary reports, the Batch 
Summary Report file or the data files must be copied back into the folder at C:\Premier\GHb\Data. 
From the desktop, open the My Computer icon to view the folders on the computer. Select Local Disk 
(C:). Double-click on the GHbArch folder. You may need to scroll down the folder listing to find the 
GHbArch folder. 
To  reprint  the  Batch  Summary  Report  only,  open  the  folder  for  the  year  in  which  the  batch  was  run. 
Select  the  folder with the date on which the batch was started; the first 4 digits represent the year, the next 
two are the month, and the last two digits are the day date. 
Within  the  date  folder  select  the  Batch  Summary  Report  file  (with  the  .BSR  file  extension)  that 
corresponds  to  the  batch  number  to  be  reprinted.  The  first  four  digits  represent  the  Batch  Number.  For 
example,  the  file  0029.BSR  is  the  Batch  Summary Report for Batch 29. Highlight the BSR file name and 
choose  ‘Copy  this  file’  from  the  File  and  Folder  Tasks  listed  on  the  left-hand  side  of  the window. In the 
Copy Items window select the folder Premier\GHb\Data and click the Copy button. 
To  reprint  the  batch  including  chromatograms,  open  the  folder  for  the  year  in  which  the  batch  was  run. 
Select  the  folder with the date on which the batch was started; the first 4 digits represent the year, the next 
two are the month, and the last two digits are the day date. 
Within  the date folder select the raw data files (with the .RAW file extension) that correspond to the batch 
of  chromatograms  to  be  reprinted.  The  first  four  digits  represent  the  Batch  Number  and  the  last  three 
digits  are  the  individual  chromatograms.  For  example,  the  file  0029001.RAW  is  the  second 
re-equilibration  injection  for  Batch  29.  Highlight  the  RAW  file  names  for  the  entire  batch  and  choose 
‘Copy  this  file’  from  the  File  and  Folder  Tasks  listed  on  the  left-hand  side  of  the  window.  In  the  Copy 
Items window select the folder Premier\GHb\Data and click the Copy button. 
Data that is copied back into the Premier\GHb\Data folder is automatically deleted by the software to 
maintain only the newest 100 Batch Summary Reports in the Data folder. 
Also, if the Batch numbering is reset and batch numbers are being reused, the new chromatograms will 
overwrite the older ones in the Data folder. 
41 | Chapter 6 – Software & Operation Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM Results 
& Interpretation 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Auto-Verification ✓ QC Recommendations ✓ Report Interpretation 
 
1 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 

Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation 


7.1 Overview 
At  any  given  time  that  the  system  is  ‘Running’,  it  generates  two  reports  for  each  analysis  cycle  –  an 
On-Screen  Report  &  a  Printed/PDF Report. This chapter will review how to interpret these reports. All of 
the following analysis sub-types will generate reports: 
✓ Re-equilibrations ✓ QC/Controls Analysis ✓ Baseline Calibrations 
✓ System Calibrations ✓ Patient Sample Analysis 
One  report  can  be  viewed  on-screen  while  the  other  is  either  printed  or  saved  in  PDF  format  (or  if 
selected,  sent  to  LIS;  this  report  will  vary  depending  on  local  LIS  systems). All data is then stored in the 
directory  on  the  C:  drive  of  the  Premier  CPU  Module  for  the  purposes  of  data  backup  &  storage.  This 
chapter  will  provide  examples  of  both  on-screen  &  printed  reports,  as  well  as  recommendations  for 
interpretation. 

7.2 Auto-Verification 
The Premier Hb9210TM is designed with walk-away capability and does not require review of individual 
reports – these features are defined as Auto-Verification. 
The Auto-Verification feature of the Premier Hb9210TM is designed to assist with automatic review of 
chromatography variables that an operator would normally check for, including: 
✓ A stable re-equilibration baseline ✓ Acceptable peak area & valley heights ✓ Acceptable 
pressure differences 
✓ Acceptable retention times ✓ Acceptable Control/QC values 
With multiple software checks in place, Auto Verification has been developed based on the following 
platform benefits: 
...Boronate Affinity Chemistry is a simplified separation method where only 2 peaks need to be 
accurately quantified... 
...a highly sensitive detector paired with advanced peak analysis software which gives an 
accurate analysis of basic chromatogram quality... 
Please  note:  the  lab  director  has  the  responsibility  to  select  and  implement  Auto-Verification  rules  and 
processes  that  are  appropriate  for  his  or  her  lab.  To  use  the  Auto-Verification  feature  it  is  essential  that 
GLP  recommendations  are  followed,  specifically  in  regards  to  frequency  of  QC  sample  analysis.  (see 
Section 7.3 for QC recommendations) 
 
7.2.1 Auto-Verification Features 
There are two measures that must be followed if the Auto-Verification feature is to function in the manner 
it was designed and in a manner in which it can be most effective to the laboratory. 
1. Good (Clinical) Laboratory Practice (GLP/GCLP) QC guidelines are to be followed at all times. 
2. Upon instrument installation, the Premier must be set-up by the laboratory administrator and the 
appropriate 
Trinity Biotech Technical Representative or Applications Specialist. 
There are two measures that the Premier takes in order to ensure quality patient sample results. 
Measure 1. Stable Baseline Confirmation 
Each  time  a  new  column  is  installed  on  the  instrument,  a  baseline  calibration  is  run  as  part  of  the  initial 
calibration.  The baseline ensures that any noise from the instrument is cancelled out and not interpreted as 
part  of  final  patient  sample  chromatography.  Figure  1  below  shows  incorrect  noise cancellation and how 
it can be identified during the re-equilibration process. 
Figure 1: Improper Cancellation of Baseline Noise from Final Chromatography 
Noise from the pumps can be falsely interpreted by the detector as shifts in the chromatogram, and can 
add unwanted peaks/area to the final result. The system will not allow the Operator to continue if: 
1. A new column is installed – the system will not proceed to run the full System Calibration until a stable 
baseline is detected. 
2.  During  each  patient  sample  analysis,  four  re-equilibration  injections  are  performed  to  equilibrate  the 
column  to  analysis  (in-run)  conditions  (temperature,  flow,  gradient).  The  fourth  re-equilibration  also 
checks  for  baseline  stability  –  it  should  be  almost  completely flat before injecting the first patient sample 
in  order  to  confirm  and  ensure  that  there  is  no  unnecessary  integration  included  in  a  final  result 
calculation. 
2 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
Figure  2  provides  an  example  of  a baseline calibration. As emphasized by the noise circled on the screen, 
it  is  not  perfectly  flat.  Each  baseline  corresponds  to  a  specific  column.  For  this  reason,  an  acceptable 
baseline  must  be  detected  as  part  of  the  initial  calibration  each  time  a  new column is installed. When the 
Premier  calibrates  the  baseline,  it  subtracts  any  noise  from  the  system  and  will  result  in  a  flat  and stable 
baseline each time the re- equilibration injections are run. 
Figure 2: Baseline Injection - Showing Typical System Noise 
After  a  baseline  is  accepted,  it  results  in  a  flat  response  from  the  detector  when  the  re-equilibration 
injections  are  run.  In  many  cases,  the  first  two  re-equilibrations  will exhibit some baseline noise, but this 
is normal and due to the column conditioning itself for patient sample analysis. 
The system has a built-in alert which checks the third and fourth re-equilibration for sufficient noise 
cancellation. This means the following: 
3 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
Four re-equilibration injections are run before any analysis cycle begins in order to ensure proper 
conditions prior to reporting patient sample results. 
 
✓ The system noise is being properly subtracted from any integration corresponding to the final patient 
or QC 
result ✓ The column is stable because the baseline has not shifted 
In the event that the system does detect lingering system noise, or the baseline has shifted, the following 
error message will appear and alert the user to re-run a baseline. 
Figure 3: Baseline Limit Exceeded During 4th Re-Equilibration Alert Message 
✓ An example of a flat fourth re-equilibration injection can be found in Figure 4. 
Figure 4: Example of Flat Chromatogram Seen Upon Fourth Re-Equilibration 
4 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
When viewing final chromatography, the original stored baseline can be seen as the green line on the 
screen, while the actual detector response is seen in red. 
Figure 5: Sample Run Showing Original Baseline in Green 
Note  in  Figure  5  the  original  stored  baseline  in  green  and  the  final  detector  response  in  red.  This  green 
trace  is  an  indication  of  the  system  noise  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  is  cancelling  out  to  ensure  optimal 
analytical conditions. 
5 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
Measure 2. Software Checks 
The  Premier  Application  Software has a feature entitled Peak Analysis & Results Codes which checks for 
typical  inconsistencies  or  irregularities  in  the  final  chromatography.  This  feature  has  been  designed  to 
help  the  operator  with  interpretation  of  the  chromatograms  by  ensuring  that  the  correct  result  is  being 
generated.  If any alarms are triggered, the system will provide an audible response which in turn alerts the 
user  that  something  has  gone  wrong. This feature is utilized with both patient sample runs and calibration 
runs and has separate criteria for each scenario. 
The Peak Analysis & Results Codes can be personalized to fit the QC policy of any laboratory, and 
contain the following flexible preferences: 
✓ Modifiable Results Codes can be adjusted within the manufacturer default ranges, not outside ✓ 
Frequency of occurrence before alert ✓ Whether or not to abort a run after ‘x’ amount of occurrences 
The lab director has the ultimate responsibility to select and implement auto-verification rules and 
processes that are appropriate for his or her lab. 
The Peak Analysis & Results Codes for both Sample Run and Calibration Run are presented in Figure 6 
& Figure 7 respectively, and are explained in-depth further on in the reading. 
6 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
Although  the  Hb9210TM  verification  features  in  the  Peak Analysis & Results Codes will sound an alarm 
to  alert the operator to any irregularities, it is still strongly recommended that the Operator reviews patient 
results – even if baseline is stable & controls in-range. 
Although  the  Peak  Analysis  &  Results  Codes  are  customizable,  it  is recommended that the manufacturer 
defaults  are  only  adjusted  if  advised  to  do  so  by  a  representative  of Trinity Biotech or your local support 
representative. 
 
Figure 6: Peak Analysis & Results Codes - Patient Sample Runs 
The different variables that the Samples Peak Analysis & Results Codes check for are defined as follows: 
1. Total Peak Area – Measures the total area absorbed by the detector. 2. Height of Valley – Measures the 
height of the valley between the two peaks. 3. Pressure Difference during Run (%) – Measures the 
percentage pressure differences within a run. 4. Pressure during Analysis (bar) – Alerts the user of the 
system exceeding the minimum or maximum allowable 
pressure within a run. 5. First Peak Retention Times (minutes) – Alerts the operator of an 
unacceptable first peak retention time. 6. Second Peak Retention Times (minutes) – Alerts the operator of 
an unacceptable second peak retention 
time. 7. Control I Result (range) – Alerts the operator of an unacceptable Control I result1. 8. Control 
II Result (range) – Alerts the operator of an unacceptable Control I result1. 9. Value Result (linearity) – 
Alerts the operator of a result detected by the system which falls out of the defined 
range. 10. Not Within Normal Patient Range (user defined) – Flags low and high %HbA1c 11. Low 
GHb Result (anaemic patients) – Flags a potentially anaemic patient. 
1 The control range will shift based on the lot of QC material barcoded into the system. 
7 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
Figure 7: Peak Analysis & Results Codes - Calibration Runs 
The different variables that the Calibration Peak Analysis & Results Codes check for are defined as 
follows: 
1. Total Peak Area – Measures the total area absorbed by the detector. Area count limits are more 
stringent for 
Calibrator/QC materials. 2. Height of Valley – Measures the height of the valley between the two 
peaks. 3. Pressure Difference during Run (%) – Measures the percentage pressure differences within a 
run.. 4. Pressure during Analysis (bar) – Alerts the user of the system exceeding the minimum or 
maximum 
allowable pressure within a run. 5. First Peak Retention Times (minutes) – Alerts the operator of an 
unacceptable first peak retention time. 6. Second Peak Retention Times (minutes) – Alerts the operator of 
an unacceptable second peak retention 
time. 7. Control I Result (range) – Alerts the operator of an unacceptable Control I result2. 8. 
Control II Result (range) – Alerts the operator of an unacceptable Control II result2. 9. Does not apply to 
Calibration Run 10. Does not apply to Calibration Run 11. Does not apply to Calibration Run 12. 
Unacceptable Area Difference during Calibration (%) – Indicates significant differences in calibrator 
values, 
which would provide a poor calibration curve. 
2 The control range will shift based on the lot of QC material barcoded into the system. 
8 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
13. Calibration Slope Value – Ensures the calibration slope does not exceed a value of 2 – selecting the 
checkbox will void calibrations which exceed this limit. 
As  is  demonstrated  in  Figure  8  below,  there  are a number of points where key elements are confirmed by 
the  Peak  Analysis  &  Results  Codes  in  order  for  the  chromatography  to  be  considered  acceptable.  These 
all  help  to  assist  the  operator  report  the  correct  patient  result.  Also  shown  in  green  on  the  figure  is  the 
system noise (e.g. from the reagent pumps) that is cancelled out of the final result. 
Figure 8: Peak Analysis & Results Codes Points of Confirmation 
7.2.2 Auto-Verification Features Conclusions 
With  multiple  software  checks  in  place  paired with strict adherence to the QC recommendations made by 
Trinity  Biotech  (based  on  GCLP & other key opinion leader recommendations), the feature is designed to 
assist  the  operator  with  additional  chromatography  reviews.  The  software  will  alarm  and  alert  the 
Operator  in  case  of  any  irregularities  in the preset Peak Analysis & Results Codes parameters, which will 
contribute to increased efficiency around the lab while maintaining confidence that the Premier will give a 
precise and accurate result. 
9 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
7.3 QC Recommendations 
As part of good laboratory practices, operators should run controls and ensure values are within the ranges 
stated  on  the  package  inserts.  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  allows  for  automated  QC  analysis at set intervals 
in  a  batch,  and  Peak  Analysis  &  Results  Codes  will  alert  operators  if  values  fall  outside  of  the  stated 
ranges.  Frequently  running  QC  samples  assures  the  operator  that  the correct result is being generated. Of 
the  two  Auto-Verification  confirmations  the system features, proper frequency of QC analysis is the most 
important. 
Trinity Biotech recommends that each level of control should be run at the beginning and end of each 
analytical run, as defined by the laboratory, before reporting patient results. 
Additionally,  Trinity  Biotech  recommends  that  the  chromatography  from  each  QC/Control  analysis  be 
reviewed  by  the  operator  for  correctness  prior  to  releasing  patient results. The Auto-Verification features 
have  been  designed to aid the Operator and help to reduce operator intervention. Auto-Verification acts as 
a  software-driven  simulation  of  what  an  operator  would  normally  check for in chromatography, however 
it  cannot  fully  replace  a  highly  trained  operator  in  regards  to  chromatography  review  and  QC/Control 
checks. 
QC materials should be used in accordance with local, state, federal and accredited organizations. For 
more information, please refer to your local guidelines for quality control regulations. 
10 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
7.4 Report Interpretation 
As  mentioned,  the  system  will  generate  2  reports  for  each  injection the system makes; a printed report & 
an  on-  screen  report  for  review.  An  example  of  the  on-screen  report  is  provided  in  Figure  9  while  an 
example of the printed report can be found in Figure 10. 
7.4.1 On-Screen Report 
The  on-screen  report  is  viewed  on  the  Premier  Touch-Screen  Monitor  each  time  any  type  of  analysis  is 
carried  out.  The  current  sample  being  run  is  found  on  the  top  right  of  the  window  in  real-time  while 
previous samples are shown on the larger main window for optional review. 
Figure 9: On-Screen Report 
7.4.2 Printed Report 
The printed report can be generated in the PDF FactoryTM software featured in the Premier Application 
Software or to a local/network printer. Figure 10 provides an example of a printed report. 
11 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
Figure 10: Individual Report - Printout 
7.4.3 Interpretation of Report 
This section defines each element of the printed report (see Figure 10): 
✓ “Batch xxx” indicates the batch number that has been assigned to the run by the computer. If the batch 
is to 
be reprinted, this number will be used to recall the batch from the hard drive. 
✓  “Vial  x:yyy”  indicates  which  sample  was  injected.  The  “x”  value  tells  which  type  of  rack the sample 
came  from,  W  for  Whole  blood  sample  rack,  H  for  Haemolysate  sample  rack  and  A  for  Anemic  sample 
rack. The “yyy” value tells which vial in the rack was injected. 
✓ “abcdewxay” after the vial number is the patient ID. ID’s can be entered in three ways. 

· 
Automatically entered via the automated barcode reader 

· 
Key in names – the name will appear in the ID field. 

· 
Manually scan in Bar Code – the bar code will appear in the ID field. 
12 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
✓ Date and Time the sample was injected. 
✓ “Pressure = xx bar” – displays the pressure of the system at the point of injection. The “(xx to yy)” 
numbers 
show the extremes in the pressure readings during the sample run. 
✓ Depending on reporting units selected, the values mMol HbA1c/mol Hb = yy, and/or HbA1c = x.x% – 
are the 
percentage of the glycated components in the sample. 
✓ The chromatogram is a plot of the signal output from the detector. The first peak is the non-glycated 
peak 
and the second peak is the glycated peak. 
✓ Retention time (RT) – the elapsed time between the start of the run and the apex of the peak. 
✓ Total Area – the combined area of both peaks 
✓ [FD4873564F865674] – this is a unique file identifier where the run data is stored. 
✓ CONC = x.xx% is the area percent of the peak. 

7.5 Other Reports 


7.5.1 Header Page 
The  Operator  has  an  option  to  print  a  Header  Page  at  the  beginning  of  each  patient  sample  batch.  The 
option  to  print  the  Header  Page  can  be  enabled  in  the  Run  Parameters  menu,  as  can  be  referenced  in 
Figure 11. 
The Header Page contains very useful information, especially for Technical Support Teams in instances 
of troubleshooting. The following information is contained in the Header Page: 
✓ General Instrument ID ✓ Type of Analysis ✓ Operator Name ✓ Customer ✓ Department ✓ 
Address ✓ Location ✓ Date ✓ Batch # ✓ Lot Numbers (Reagents) ✓ Serial Numbers (Consumables) 
✓ Calibration Details ✓ Date Report Printed 
13 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
14 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
Figure 11: Print Header Page Option (Run Parameters Menu) 
Most of the above information can be edited in the System Parameters menu, as shown in Error! 
Reference source not found.. An example of a Premier Header Page can be found in Figure 13. 
Figure 12: Header Page Editable Fields 
 
Figure 13: Example Header Page 
15 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
7.5.2 Batch Summary Report (BSR) 
The Batch Summary Profile summarizes information from the individual reports in a convenient form for 
review. The Batch Summary Profile is automatically generated at the finish of each batch run. 
Dividing  lines, or batch separators, can be added to the BSR in desired multiples to allow the Operator the 
option  of  a  more  convenient  method  of  counting  down  the  BSR  page  if  they  need to find a result further 
down in the report. To add them, tick the selection button in the Run Parameters dialogue. 
Figure 14: Batch Summary Report (BSR) 
Figure 15: BSR Separator Option 
16 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
7.6 Chapter References 
1. Ezzelle, J. et.al. Guidelines on Good Clinical Laboratory Practice.. J. Pharm Biomed Anal. 2008 January 7; 46(1): 
18- 
29. 2. College of American Pathologists (CAP). Laboratory General Checklist. 2007. 3. Clinical Laboratory 
Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Equivalent Quality Control Procedures Brochure #4. 4. Statistical Quality 
Control for Quantitative Measurement procedures: Principles and Definiftions; Approved Guideline 3rd 
Edition C24-A3 Vol.26 No.25, 2006 5. ISO 15189 2012 Medical Laboratories, Requirements for Quality and 
Competence 6. Basic QC Practices 3rd Edition, James O. Wetgard, 2010 7. Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry 
and Molecular Diagnostics, 2012 
17 | Chapter 7 – Results & Interpretation Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 
Operator Maintenance 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Changing Reagents ✓ Changing a Column ✓ Module Maintenance 
 
Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance 
8.1 Introduction, Instrument & Component Overview 
This chapter will contain an overview of routine maintenance procedures that an instrument Operator will 
be expected to perform. 
Maintenance checklists, that include suggested daily, weekly, and general procedures are included, and 
may be incorporated into a laboratory logbook. 
Each procedure will list required tools, required materials (if applicable), required time, and a procedure. 
All of the tools that are required for the procedures in Chapter 8 are included with the Premier 
Hb9210TM Startup Kit. 
Figure 1: Premier Hb9210TM Operator Changing a Reagent Bottle 
1 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
1. Do not activate the system if covers or access panels have been removed or damaged. 
2.  If  moving  parts  are  unavoidably  exposed  during  normal  use,  be  aware  that  any  and  all  instructions 
could  result  in  injury,  even  if  they  are  carried  out  by  trained  personnel.  Only  operators  who  have  been 
warned  of  the  potential  hazards  and  have  received  adequate  training in carrying out the procedures in the 
safest  possible  manner  should  attempt  any/all  procedures.  Contact  Trinity  Biotech  or  your  local  support 
representative for further information. 
3.  System  pressures  on  an  instrument  can  be  up  to  40  bar  (580  psi)  under  rare circumstances. Due to the 
very  low  volumes  of  reagent  in  the  system,  it  is  minimally  dangerous.  Contact  Trinity  Biotech  or  your 
local support representative for further information. 
8.1.1 Daily Maintenance 
The Premier requires very little daily operator attention. The following are what Trinity Biotech 
recommend be carried out on a daily basis: 
✓ Performing regular activation & deactivations (Time Required: Automated) 
- During activation, ensure that Buffer A & Buffer B debubblers are full (for serial numbers 200733 or 
earlier 
– 200734 and later feature Auto-debubblers) (Time Required: 1 minute) ✓ Wiping down 
instrument surfaces & making sure that lab area is clean & tidy (Time Required: 1 minute) ✓ Ensuring 
that reference material is stored appropriately when QC dilutions are prepared (Time Required: 1 
minute) 
2 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
Before carrying out any maintenance activities, please make note of the points highlighted below. 
 
8.1.2 Weekly Maintenance 
✓ Changing of the Pump Module recirculating purified water 
shown in Figure 2 (Time Required: 5 minutes) ✓ Powering off system over weekends or when 
instrument 
will go unused for longer periods of time (2-7 days) (Time Required: 1 minute) ✓ Cleaning the probe 
needle guide black plastic insert 
8.1.3 Periodic Maintenance ✓ Following column change instructions (on-screen) 
- Changing Frits (Time Required: 5 minutes) - Disposing of old column in biohazardous waste bin 
(Time Required: 1 minute) ✓ Following reagent change instructions (on screen) (Time 
Required: Variable) 
Figure 2: Pump Module Recirculating 
Water ✓ Proper instrument care if going unused for longer 
than a week - Perform a deactivation (Time Required: 
Automated) - Remove column, replace end-caps & place in a 2- 8°C refrigerator – install Column 
Placeholder, 09- 43-1804, shown in Figure 3 (Time Required: 5 minutes) 
8.1.4 Preventative Maintenance 
✓ Scheduled by technical service representatives 
Figure 3: Column Placeholder 
3 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
8.2 Changing the Reagents 
Required Tools: None 
Required Materials: Applicable (empty) bottle of Premier reagent 
Required Time: 5 minutes (2 minutes to change reagent bottle, 3 minutes to prime system) 
Reagent levels can be checked from the Main Assay screen, or before running any type of analysis. 
Figure 4: Reagent Levels Quick Touch Button 
Note:  There  are  3  different  operator  notifications  in  place  on  the  Premier  which  alert  the  operator  of 
reagent  levels  and  of  the  relative  need  to  change  the  appropriate  bottle(s)  at  a  given  time  in  the  near 
future. 
The  first,  as  shown  in  Figure  5,  is  the  estimated  number  of  injections  to  run  count  in  the  level  sense 
dialogue.  This  provides  an  estimate  of  remaining  injections  given  current  reagent  levels  in  place  on  the 
Premier  Hb9210TM.  This  is  a  reflection  of  the  reagent  with  the  lowest  remaining  volume  and  is  not  a 
reflection of column injections remaining. 
Figure 5: Reagent Levels 
4 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
Reminder  1.  The  reagent  level  will  turn  Yellow.  Approximately  50  patient  samples  remain  before  the 
system  will  deactivate.  The  system  will  audibly  notify  the  operator  –  the  operator  will  need  to  manually 
deactivate the audible alarm. 
Figure 6: Reminder 1 - Audible Alarm - Reagent Levels Low 
Reminder 2. The reagent level will turn Red. The system will not allow any further samples to be run. The 
status  bar  will  reveal  a  15  minute  timer  until  the  system  automatically  deactivates.  The  system  will 
audibly notify the operator. The operator must change the reagent. 
Figure 7: Reminder 2 (Final Reminder) - Audible Alarm - Reagent Levels Low 
5 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
As  reagent  levels  decrease  through  use,  Operators  will  be  presented  with  reminders  to  alert  them  of  the 
levels  remaining  in  the  bottles.  This  ensures  reagents  are  changed  in  a  timely  manner  so  as  to  avoid  the 
introduction of air into the system via pumping from empty reagent bottles. 
 
At this point, the Premier will display an on-screen message to change the Reagent bottle. The on-screen 
message reads as follows: 
Premier Hb9210TM Reagent Bottle Change Instructions: 
1. With the system flow at 0.0 mL/minute1 (at either Standby or Inactive) and after the new reagent bottle 
barcode has been scanned, locate the empty bottle to be removed from the analyzer. 
2. Unscrew reagent cap and remove lines from bottle. CAUTION – Do not pull on reagent tubes – this 
can 
cause the reagent liquid level sensing system to be inaccurate and/or damage the tubing. 
3. With clean tissue, wipe the bottle tubes dry and prevent tubing tips from touching the reagent tray or 
other 
surfaces. 
4. Remove empty bottle from system. 
5. Remove cap from the new bottle of reagent. Remove foil seal from bottle. Place bottle in reagent tray. 
6. Insert reagent lines into new bottle and tighten reagent cap. Be sure the tubing lines are not twisted or 
crossed from the instrument to the bottle top. 
7. Repeat steps 1-6 for any additional reagents to be replaced. 
8. Allow system to Auto-Prime any/all reagents that were changed, according to dialog box(es). 
9. When controls are within range, sample analysis can proceed. You do not need to calibrate unless the 
controls are out. 
1 The Flow can be set to 0.0 mL/min by pushing Ctrl + S from the Main Assay Screen, or from Devices Menu → 
Pumps → Solvent System. 
6 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
7 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
Procedure: 
1.  Obtain  new  bottle  of  reagent  in  need  of  changing.  From  the  Lot  Numbers  Dialogue,  scan  in  the  new 
reagent barcode using the barcode gun. 
Figure 8: Buffer Barcode Entry (from Lot Numbers Dialogue) 
Figure 9: Purge Pumps Control Dialogue 
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to change the reagent bottle. 
3. The system will automatically alert the Operator to prime. Prime the system for three minutes. 
4. Lift the Pump Door & manually check to assure that the debubblers are primed.2 
5. Begin to run samples once 
the system is done priming. 
The locations of the reagents on the system can be found in Figure 10 below. 
2 To prime the manual debubblers, loosen the top valve and allow reagent level to fill chamber. Only applicable for 
serial numbers 200733 and earlier. 
 
Figure 10: Physical Locations of the Premier Hb9210 Reagents (XL500 and XL1000 test packs) 
Reagent Side Trays can also be fitted to your Premier Hb9210TM Analyzer for use with the XL3000 test 
packs. Please contact Trinity Biotech or your local distributor how to acquire the Side Trays. 
Figure 11: Diluent Left Reagent Side Tray (Left), Buffer Right Reagent Side Tray (Right) 
8 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
8.2.1 Priming the Pumps 
It  will  be  necessary  to  prime  the  buffers  any  time  the  solvent  flow  path  is  opened  up in the pump (i.e. to 
replace  pump  seals  or  check  valve),  if  bubbles  are  present  in  the  solvent  lines,  or  if  the  pressure 
fluctuation is unacceptable. This can all be done through the software by following this simple procedure: 
Required Materials: On-board reagents 
Required Tools: None 
Required Time: 5 minutes 
Procedure: 
1. From the Main Menu screen, select Devices, then Pumps, followed by Purge Pumps. 
2. Set the purge time to at least 2 minutes. 
3. Once complete, check system for presence of air bubbles or unprimed pump. 
8.2.2 Priming the Piston Rinsing Chamber with Purified Water 
The  piston  wash  is  Purified  Water  (purified,  filtered,  DI,  and/or distilled) that is used to continually rinse 
the  piston  when  the  pump  is  running.  This  purified  water  recycles  through  both  pumps  and  should  be 
changed  weekly. Prime (lack of large air bubbles) of the Purified Water lines to the pump heads should be 
checked on a daily basis. NOTE: It is natural for some small air bubbles to move in the lines. 
Materials Required: Purified Water (purified, filtered, DI, and/or distilled) 
Tools Required: Priming Syringe 
Required Time: 5 minutes 
Procedure: 
1. Ensure system status is in standby. 
2. In the Application Software, select Devices and then Pumps/Solvent Control. Set the flow to 1.00 
ml/min, 
50% Pump B. Press set. 
3.  Place  the  priming syringe in the priming tee connection located to the right of the pump on one of the 2 
recirculating  pump  head  rinse  lines.  Turn  the  arm  of  the  priming  tee  down  (away  from  bottle)  and  pull 
back  on  the  plunger  of  the  syringe.  Turn  arm  of  priming  tee  towards  syringe  connection  point.  Remove 
syringe 
9 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
Be  sure  that  debubblers  are  fully  primed  as  per  daily  maintenance  requirements;  both  during  and  after 
purging. See Section 9.1.2 for more specific instructions on how to prime the manual debubblers. 
 
and expel purified water. Repeat until all of the air has been removed from the solvent line between the 
Purified Water bottle and the priming valve. 
4.  Place  the  priming  syringe  in  the  same  priming  tee, but turn the arm of the priming tee up. Pull back on 
the  plunger  of  the  syringe.  Turn  the  arm  of  the  priming  tee  towards  the  bottle.  Press  on  syringe  to  push 
purified  water  through  the  pump  heads.  Repeat  until  all  of  the  air  has  been  removed  from  pump  head 
wash lines and back to the bottle. 
8.2.3 Priming the Dilutor (Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent) 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  DIL  Reagent  is  used  by the syringe module to aspirate the samples as well as to 
help  clean  the  septum-piercing probe. Air in the line between the Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent bottle 
and  the  septum  piercing  probe  will  cause  inaccurate  dilutions.  Priming  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  DIL 
Reagent is accomplished completely through software. 
Materials Required: Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent, 3.8L, 01-03-0097 
Tools Required: None 
Required Time: 5 minutes 
Procedure: 
1. Confirm the inlet line from the tan valve is completely submerged in the Premier Hb9210TM DIL 
Reagent. 
2. Confirm both ends of the Dilutor syringe are tightened securely by hand. 
3. Confirm the inlet and transfer tubing is securely attached to the syringe manifold (tan block above the 
syringe). 
4. From the Application Software go to Devices, Autosampler and click on Prime Dilutor. 
5. A Dialog Box will appear, the Autosampler will perform a homing sequence and the septum-piercing 
probe 
will move over the rinse station. The syringe will then begin to cycle at 100% of its capacity. 
6. When all air bubbles have been removed from the inlet and transfer lines click on the OK button to stop 
the 
cycling of the syringe. 
8.2.4 Priming the Active Rinse Station (ARS) 
Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent is used for the Active Rinse Station (ARS) reagent. The ARS is used by 
the  probe  module  to  facilitate  dilution  of  the  whole  blood  samples  and  to help clean the rinse station and 
septum-  piercing  probe.  If the ARS is not pumping the Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent, the result could 
be  over concentrated whole blood injections and/or carryover. Priming the ARS is normally accomplished 
through the software. 
Materials Required: Premier Hb9210TM DIL Reagent, 01-03-0097 
10 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
Tools Required: None 
Required Time: 5 minutes 
Procedure: 
1. Confirm the clear tubing from the ARS is completely submerged into the bottle of Premier Hb9210TM 
DIL 
Reagent. 
2. From the Application Software go to Devices, Injector and click on Prime Rinse Station Pump. 
3. A Dialog Box will appear and the ARS pump will turn on. Leave pump on until a small amount of 
Premier 
Hb9210TM DIL Reagent appears to flow from the top of the tan insert of the rinse station. 
4. Click on OK in the dialog box to turn the pump off. 

8.3 Changing the Column 


Materials Required: Column, Pre-Injection Valve Frit, Pre-Column Frit 
Tools Required: no tools are required 
Required Time: 40 minutes (< 5 minutes required for Operator) 
Note: There are 3 different operator notifications in place on the Premier which alert the operator how 
many injections are remaining on the column. 
Reminder 1. The Run Baseline, Run Calibration & Run Samples windows will all have an ‘injections 
remaining’ notification at the top left of the dialogue. 
11 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
Be  very  careful  when  changing  the  column.  If  the  system  hasn’t  undergone  a  full  deactivation  before 
changing the column, the oven and column will be very hot to the touch. 
 
Figure 12: Reminder 1 - Column Injections Remaining (from Analysis Confirmation Dialogues) 
Reminder 2. An Audible Alarm will sound until manually overridden by the operator. 
Figure 13: Reminder 2 - Audible Alarm - 25 Column Injections Remaining 
Reminder 3. When there are 0 injections remaining on the column, a new column will need to be 
installed. 
12 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
Figure 14: Reminder 3 (Final Reminder) - Audible Alarm - No Further Column Injections Remaining 
Procedure: The following procedure requires additional requirements. The Laboratory Administrator will 
be fully trained on the procedure upon instrument installation. 
Additional Requirements. In order to change the column, the operator will need to do the following: 
✓ Scan in column lot number ✓ Load QC & Calibrators ✓ Change Frits 
✓ Activate System ✓ Run Baseline ✓ Run Calibration 
1.  Scan  in  new  column  lot  number.  To  do  this,  navigate  to  the  Lot  Numbers  window.  From  the  Main 
Menu, select the Edit Menu. 
Figure 15: Edit Menu Button (from the Main Menu) 
13 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
2. From the Edit Menu, select the Lot 
Numbers button. 
Figure 16: Lot Numbers Button (from the Edit Menu) 
Figure 17: Lot Numbers Entry Dialogue - Column Tab 
3.  Select  the  ‘Column’  tab  on  the  top  of  the  dialogue.  Touch  the  Scan  Barcode  button  and  scan  in  the 
column barcode using the handheld barcode scanning device. 
4. Once the new barcode has been scanned into the system, all of the physical changes can be made. The 
physical column change instructions are provided in an on-screen message: 
14 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
Figure 18: On-Screen column Change Instructions 
5. After changing the column, be sure to change the pre-column & pre-injection valve frits before 
activating the 
system. Instructions for this can be found in section 8.3.1 below. 
6.  When the column has been physically installed & the frits have been successfully changed, the operator 
will  now  need  to  Activate  &  Run  Calibration  before  running  patient  samples.  This  can  all  be  done 
automatically through the Automated Operator Assistant. 
7.  Select  the  Run  Samples  dialogue  from  the  Main  Assay  Screen  or  the Operation Menu. In the top right 
of  the  Run  Samples  dialogue,  enable  the  boxes  in  the  Automated  Operator  Assistant  to  Activate  &  Run 
Calibration (shown in Figure 19). 
8.  Load  the  QC  material  before  enabling  the  Automated  Operator  Assistant.  Begin  the  Run.  The  system 
will automatically Activate, Run Baseline, Run Calibration & Run Samples. 
Figure 19: Automated Operator Assistant Selection Menu 
15 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
8.3.1 Changing the Frits 
When changing the column, it is required to change the Pre-Injection Valve & Pre-Column frits. One of 
each frit is included with each column. Procedures for how to change the frits are as follows. 
Changing the 75μm Pre-Injection Valve Frit 09-71-1905 
Materials Required: 75μm Frit – Part Number: 09-71-1905 
Tools Required: None 
Required Time: 2 Minutes 
Procedure: 
1. Locate the Injection Port-to-Injection Valve tubing (09-41-1621) – it is the orange PEEK tubing going 
from 
the Probe Module to Position 2 of the Injection Valve Module (not the clear waste tubing). 
Figure 20: Locate the Pre-Injection Valve Frit Housing 
16 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
The Premier Hb9210TM utilizes two types of Frit/Sample Pre-filter – 2μm Pre- Column and 75μm 
Pre-Injection Valve 
 
2. Loosen & remove the white fitting from sample pre-filter housing, which holds the 75-μm sample 
pre-filter. 
The housing is the tan fitting attached at Position 2 of the injection valve. 
Figure 21: Loosen the White Frit Housing Fitting 
3. Remove the tan frit housing/fitting from the Injection Valve. The 75 μm frit will still be in the tan 
finger-tight 
housing. 
Figure 22: Remove the Tan Frit Housing from the Injection Valve 
17 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
 
4. Remove the 75μm frit from the tan housing. Do this by drying the inside of the housing with a soft 
tissue 
and gently tapping the fitting on a hard surface until the frit falls out. 
5. Discard old frit in proper biohazard disposal container. Install a new 75μm frit. 
Figure 23: Newly Installed Pre-Injection Valve Frit (Colourless side Facing Upwards) 
Reinstall Frit Housing Fitting, & Injection Port-to-Injection Valve Tubing in reverse order. 
18 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
There  are  two  sides  to  the  75μm  frit  –  one  is white, the other is colourless. Be sure to have the white side 
of  the  75μm  frit  facing  downward,  and  the  colourless  side  facing  up.  Failure  to  position  correctly  will 
reduce filtering efficiency and can affect sample injection volumes. 
✓ When re-installing the orange tubing, first loosely install the orange tubing 
& white finger-tight back into the tan finger-tight frit housing. ✓ Do not tighten down – only loosely 
install. ✓ Next, tighten down the tan finger-tight housing into Position 1 of the 
injection valve. The orange tubing & white finger-tight was not tightened down so as to allow it the 
ability to turn freely as the tan finger-tight was installed. ✓ Once the tan finger-tight is installed back into 
Position 1 of the Injection Valve, the orange tubing & white finger-tight fitting can be tightened into 
place. 
 
19 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
Changing the 2μm (Pre-Column) Frit (03-11-0056) 
Required Materials: 2μm Frit – Part Number: 03-11-0056 
Required Tools: 2 Wrenches (capable of 7/16” and/or 11mm) – unless using 2μm Finger Tight Frit 
Housing, PN 09-33-3205 – in which case no tools are required 
Required Time: 2 Minutes 
Procedure:The  column  pre-filter  is  located  on  the  tubing  between  Position  6  of  the  Injection  Valve 
Module  and  the  column  pre-heating  coil  tubing  of  the  Oven  Module.  It  is  set  in  a  stainless  steel  frit 
housing, as shown in Figure 24. 
Figure 24: 2μm Pre-Column Frit Housing Orientation 
Note: To change the 2μm Frit if using the Finger Tight Frit Housing, simply loosen the two aluminium 
handles by hand as demonstrated in Figure 25. 
Figure 25: Opening the 2μm Finger Tight Frit Housing 
 
Remove and replace the 2μm Frit. Tighten by hand until you feel that the surfaces of each side of the 
housing have met. 
Hand-tighten two ‘notches’ further on the housing using the reference ‘notch’ on the handle as your 
guide. See Figure 26 below for an example of tightening ‘two notches further’. 
Figure 26: Instructions for Changing the 2μm Frit 

8.4 Detector Maintenance 


8.4.1 Removing Air Bubbles from the Flow Cell 
Air  bubbles  can  become  trapped  in  the  flow  cell  causing  poor  baseline  and  erratic  results.  Once  the 
system  has  been  running  it  is  unlikely  that  an air bubble will get trapped unless the system has lost prime 
or  the  flow  system  has  been  opened  up.  The  following  is  a  procedure  for  removing  trapped  air  bubbles 
from the flow cell. 
Materials Required: None 
Tools Required: Column Bypass, Part Number 09-41-1704 
Required Time: 10 minutes 
Procedure: 
1. In the Application Software, select Devices and then Pumps/Solvent System. 
2. Set the flow to zero and allow the pressure to come down to less than 10 Bar. 
20 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 

Two ‘Notches’ 
Reference ‘Notch’ 
 
3. Remove the column from the system and install a column bypass union (this is a metal zero dead 
volume 
union that was included with the tool kit) 
4. In the Solvent Control dialog box set the flow to 100% A and 3.0 ml/min and press Set. This will allow 

high reagent flow through the flow cell and may flush any air bubbles from the flow cell. 
5. Allow this flow to pass through the flow cell for at least 5 minutes. 
6. In the Application Software, select Devices and then Detector and select Zero analog output. 
7. Then select Devices, Detector and select Acquire data. 
8. The output from the detector will be monitored for 50-seconds and is represented with the horizontal 
blue 
line on the screen. The baseline should be flat. 
9. If the baseline appears to be flat set the flow to zero and reinstall the column. 

8.5 Pump Maintenance 


There  are  no  components  of  the  Pump  that  are  user  replaceable.  Wear  items  are  replaced  on  a  periodic 
cycle  during  preventive  maintenance  visits  by  Trinity  Biotech  Technical  Service Representatives or your 
local distributor. 

8.6 Sample Transport, Syringe Module and Probe Module Maintenance 


There  are  no  components  of  the  Sample  Transport  and  the  Probe  Module that are user replaceable. Wear 
items  are  replaced  on  a  periodic  cycle  during  preventive  maintenance visits by Trinity Biotech Technical 
Service Representatives or your local distributor. 
21 | Chapter 8 – Operator Maintenance Rev. 23 
Many  of  the  components  on  the  Sample  Transport  and  the  Probe  Module  injector  come  in direct contact 
with  the  blood  samples.  The  Premier  Hb9210TM  should  be  run  through  a  shutdown  cycle  and  wiped 
down  with  disinfectant  before  removing  or  working  on  either  of  these  units.  Proper  personal  protective 
equipment must be worn and proper precautions should be taken when working on either of these units. 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM 
Operator Troubleshooting 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ Hardware Error Codes ✓ Peak Analysis & Result 
Codes ✓ General Chromatography 
Troubleshooting ✓ Contacting Tech Support 
 
Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting 
9.1 General Troubleshooting 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  auto-verification  features  have  been  designed  to  alert  operators  with  alarm  and 
error  codes  to  any  potentially  poor  chromatography.  This  chapter  outlines  problems that can lead to poor 
chromatography and the suggested remedies that may assist in correcting such problems. 
If a resolution is not obtained within a reasonable amount of time, call your Technical Support 
Representative. Basic preventative maintenance and care is the key to a system that runs well. 

Contact your Trinity Biotech Technical Representative: 


US/Canada/Puerto Rico Customers: Trinity Biotech USA 2823 Girts Road Jamestown, NY 
14701 Tel: 1-800-325-3424 technicalsupport@trinityusa.com 
International Customers: Trinity Biotech IDA Business Park Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland Tel: + 
353 1 276 9898 Fax: + 353 1 276 9888 haemoglobins.techsupport@trinitybiotech.com 
www.trinitybiotech.com 
9.1.1 Aligning the Touch Screen Monitor 
Purpose: If the Touch Screen Monitor becomes unresponsive or imprecise to touch, it is occasionally 
required to calibrate its alignment. 
Time Required: 1 minute 
Materials Required: None 
Tools Required: None 
1 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Procedure: 
1. Select the ELO icon from the Windows Taskbar 
Menu, as highlighted in Figure 1. 
Figure 1: ELO Touch Screen Alignment Icon in the Windows Taskbar 
2. Select the Align button from the ELO dialogue, 
as shown in Figure 2. 
Figure 2: Alignment Button Selection 
2 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
3. Touch the targets positioned 
around the screen. 
Figure 3: Positioning the Touch Screen 
4.  Drag  your  finger  around  the  Touch  Screen  and  ensure  that the cursor follows your finger. If the cursor 
follows  your  finger,  select  the  green  check  mark  to  complete  the alignment. If the cursor does not follow 
your finger, select the blue return arrow on the right to return to Step 3. 
Figure 4: Alignment Confirmation 
9.1.2 Priming the Manual Debubblers 
Purpose:  If  a  system  is  being  newly  installed,  maintenance  performed,  the  system  loses  prime,  reagent 
bottles  are  changed,  or  any  air  is  somehow  being  introduced  into  the  system  upstream  from  the  Pump 
Heads, the debubblers will trap air before it reaches the Pump Heads and will need to be primed. 
Time Required: 1 minute 
Materials Required: None 
Tools Required: None 
3 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
Manual  debubblers  are  only  applicable  for  Premier  Hb9210TM  serial  numbers  200733  and  earlier, 
instruments with serial number 200734 and higher feature automatic debubblers 
 
Procedure: 
1. Lift the Pump Door. 
2. Locate the Debubblers. 
3.  Turn  the  top  valve  counter-clockwise  to  purge.  The  reagent level will fill to the top. Turn clockwise to 
tighten and close valve. 
Figure 5: Priming Debubblers 
4 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
If the debubblers are losing prime on a regular basis, check upstream from the debubblers for possible 
points of entry of air/leaks. 
 
9.2 Hardware Error Codes 
This section will guide operators through the troubleshooting steps to be taken if any hardware error 
codes or issues are observed. Following the flow charts from left to right the steps are as follows: 
1. Error Code 
2. Potential Cause 
3. Resolution 
If these steps do not resolve the error, or you observe any other hardware error codes, you should contact 
a member of the Trinity Biotech Technical Team, or your local distributor immediately. 
9.2.1 Data Handling System 
The data handling system consists of a CPU, colour touch screen monitor, printer, and a handheld barcode 
gun  combined  with  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  Application  Software.  The  steps  below  can  help  operators 
resolve  some  issues  that  may  arise  in  the  course  of  daily  use.  If  you require information on your specific 
computer, please contact Trinity Biotech or your local support representative. 
Figure 6: Premier Hb9210TM Data Handling System (with covers removed to show CPU module) 
5 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
6 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
AP3 Cannot Communicate with Middleware 
“Out of Range” Error on the Monitor 
Blue Screen on Startup, won’t boot windows. 
Touch screen Unresponsive/Lost Calibration 
 
9.2.2 Autosampler System 
The Autosampler System consists of a Sample Transport Module, the Probe Module and Injection Valve 
Module. 
7 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
Faulty Keyboard Track-Pad 
Device plugged into USB adapter hub not working properly 
AP38 Run stopped because system timed-out looking for tubes or racks 
 
8 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
AP114 Run aborted. Zero calibration result 
AP139 Rub aborted. Consecutive duplicate vial barcodes detected 
AS120-AS124 Yokes not in position to run conveyor 
 
The error codes noted above share a common resolution pathway as shown in the flow chart below: 
9 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
AS134 Indexing Error while moving the yoke 
AS125 Cal Wheel not in position, AS126 Probe homing error, IV122 Assay time exceeded, IV119 
Position error unable to obtain commanded position, IV165 Module uninitialized 
 
10 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
SY2 Syringe in/out mismatch 
Syringe module making clicking sound 
Fluid dripping under the injection valve 
 
9.2.3 Pump Module 
11 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
Probe actuator making excessive noise 
AP120 Communication Error 
AP130 Communication Timeout 
 
9.2.4 Oven Module 
Premier Hb9210TM Oven Module performance specifications: 
✓ Temperature Range: 30-70°C ✓ Temperature Stability: ±0.2°C ✓ Temperature Repeatability: ±0.5°C 
✓ Temperature Accuracy: ±0.5°C ✓ Safety Cutout: 70°C 
AP11 Temperature limit exceeded 
9.2.5 Detector Module 
AP138 Baseline out of range. Re-run baseline 
12 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.2.6 Waste Pump 
The automatic Waste Pump hardware is located under the Rear Lower Panel of the Premier Hb9210TM. 
System waste leaking under the instrument 
13 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.3 Peak Analysis & Results Codes 
The  Premier  Hb9210TM  has several safety codes – both for patient sample runs and for calibration runs – 
designed  to  alert  the  operator  of  abnormalities  within  the  reported chromatography results. However, not 
all  abnormalities  can  be  quantitatively  assessed  by  the  software  due  to  the  wide  range  of  patient  results 
experienced  in  a  normal  laboratory  environment,  so  operators  must  be  able  to  visually tell the difference 
between acceptable and abnormal chromatograms (refer to section 9.4). 
9.3.1 Patient Sample Peak Analysis & Results Codes 
Figure 7: Patient Sample Peak Analysis & Results Codes 
14 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
Although  the  Peak  Analysis  &  Results  Codes  are  customizable,  it  is recommended that the manufacturer 
defaults  are  only  adjusted  if  advised  to  do  so  by  a  representative  of Trinity Biotech or your local support 
representative. 
 
Code 1: Unacceptable Total Peak Area 
- Less than 250,000 total peak area 
1. No obvious instrumentation problems: samples possibly too dilute – either being over-diluted by the 
analyzer or 
not enough sample in the patient sample tube. a. Check sample volume. Must have a minimum of 0.5mL 
of hemolysate or 0.5mL of packed red blood cells 
to sample correctly. b. Check the dilution if making hemolysate and verify that it is the proper 
dilution ratio (1:150). 2. Air leaks: system erratically sampling due to air leaking into the sampling circuit. 
If this is happening, air 
bubbles should be visible in the tube connecting the syringe module to the probe. a. Tighten fittings on 
Syringe Valve Manifold. b. Tighten Dilutor syringe (top and bottom). c. Tighten fitting at probe top. 3. 
Diluent low: check to ensure that physical reagent levels match software reagent levels. 4. Plugged 
Pre-Injection Valve Frit: 75μm frit on the injection circuit is plugged. 
a. Replace the 75μm frit 
Code 1: Unacceptable Total Peak Area 
- Greater than 2M total peak area 
1. Whole Blood sample placed in an ‘H’ (hemolysate) rack. 
a. If there was accidentally a whole blood sample placed on a hemolysate rack, stop analysis immediately. 
Run the system at 50% Reagent A/50% Reagent B for 30 minutes at 1.00 mL/min to flush protein off the 
column. Run baselines or blank injections after 30 minutes to test for residual material left over on the 
column. 2. Sample dilution parameters adjusted incorrectly. 
a. Contact Trinity Biotech technical service representative. Sample dilution parameters can only be 
adjusted 
by a trained Field Service Engineer. 
15 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
Although  the  Hb9210TM has auto-verification features built into the Peak Analysis & Results Codes, it is 
still strongly recommended that the Operator review each patient result. 
 
16 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 2: Unacceptable Height of Valley 
- Valley height greater than 1,000 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check for leaks. 2. Void Volume in the HPLC system. Void volume present in one of the critical 
junctions in the HPLC system. 
a. Check 2μm frit housing to confirm that it is tightened properly. b. Check column to make sure it is 
tightened properly 
Code 3: Unacceptable Pressure Difference During Sample Analysis (%) 
- Unacceptable maximum pressure difference between pumps A & B during analysis 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check physical reagent levels, confirm that bottles have enough reagent and tubing is reaching the 
reagent 
levels. b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to 
check for air in debubblers with every change of reagent A or B and during activation as per Operator 
Daily Maintenance recommendations. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices → Pumps → Purge Pump. 
Turn the Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove bypass 
union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there is no 
significant pressure drop within the run. NOTE: The first 1/3 of the screen is when the A pump is 
pumping, the middle third of the screen is where the B pump is pumping and the last third of the screen is 
when the A pump is pumping again. Lower pressure at the beginning, middle or end of the chromatogram 
can indicate which pump has lost prime. 
17 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 4: Unacceptable Total Pressure during Run (bar) 
- Unacceptable minimum system pressure during analysis - Unacceptable minimum-maximum pressure 
difference between pumps A & B during analysis 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check reagent level, confirm that bottles have enough reagent and tubing is reaching the reagent levels. 
b. Check debubblers, make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. c. From Main Menu, go to Devices → Pumps → Purge Pump. Turn 
the Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. d. Remove the column and install 
bypass union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. e. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. f. Run a Baseline and confirm that there is 
no significant pressure drop within the run. NOTE: The first 1/3 of the screen is when the A pump is 
pumping, the middle third of the screen is where the B pump is pumping and the last third of the screen is 
when the A pump is pumping again. Lower pressure at the beginning, middle or end of the chromatogram 
can indicate which pump has lost prime. 2. Leak in System: 
a. Check tubing connections for leaks and tighten. 3. System pressure too high: plugged 2μm frit or 
column 
a. Change 2μm frit with every column change. 
18 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 5: Unacceptable First Peak Retention Time (minutes) 
- The non-glycated peak did not elute in the acceptable peak window 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check reagent level, confirm that bottles have enough reagent. b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, 
make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices → Pumps → Purge Pump. Turn 
the Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there 
is no significant pressure drop within the run. 2. Void Volume in the HPLC system. Void volume present 
in one of the critical junctions in the HPLC system. 
a. Check 2μm frit housing to confirm that it is tightened properly. b. Check column to make sure it is 
tightened properly 
Code 6: Unacceptable Second Peak Retention Time (minutes) 
- The glycated peak did not elute in the acceptable peak window 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check reagent level, confirm that bottles have enough reagent. b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, 
make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices, Pumps, Purge Pump. Turn the 
Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there 
is no significant pressure drop within the run. 2. Void Volume in the HPLC system. Void volume present 
in one of the critical junctions in the HPLC system. 
a. Check 2μm frit housing to confirm that it is tightened properly. b. Check column to make sure it is 
tightened properly 
19 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 7: Unacceptable Control I Result 
- Control level I material is not within the range stated on the package insert. 
Note: If the chromatography is abnormal, refer to section 9.4 before performing the following steps. 
1. Calibrate system. See Operator’s Manual section 6.3.2. 2. Incorrect dilution. Prepare new control 
samples with the correct dilution ratio listed on the pack insert. 3. Reagent debubblers full of air. Bleed 
the air out of the debubblers. 4. Control material. For lyophilized QC material, reconstituted QC material 
and haemolysate dilutions of reconstituted QC material, ensure the correct storage, reconstitution and 
expiration date, according to package insert(s). 
Code 8: Unacceptable Control II Result 
- Control level II material is not within the range stated on the package insert. 
Refer to Code 7: Unacceptable Control I Result for appropriate Code 8 troubleshooting steps. 
20 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 9: Unacceptable Value Result 
- Result of analysis is beyond the system linearity range 
1. Rerun Sample. 2. Calibrate system. See sections 6.3.2. 3. Perform Linearity Evaluation. 
Code 10: Not within Normal Patient Range 
- Result of analysis is outside of the operator-defined normal range 
Note:  This  code  is  not  a  system  error.  This  code  simply  reminds  the  operator  that  the result is outside of 
the  normal  range  (for  the  reporting  units  the  system  was  calibrated  in).  For  mMol  HbA1c/mol  Hb 
reporting,  the  IFCC  has  established  30-40  mMol  HbA1c/mol  Hb  as  their  normal  range.  For  %HbA1c 
reporting, the NGSP has established 4.0-6.0%HbA1c as their normal range. 
Code 11: Low Glycohaemoglobin Result 
- Result of analysis is below the operator-defined limit for normal HbA1c levels. 
Note:  This  code  is  not  a  system  error.  This  code  reminds  the  operator  that  the  result  is  below  the 
established  limit  (by  the manufacturer or the laboratory administration) for patients with normal %HbA1c 
results. Values below normal %HbA1c limits could indicate abnormal haematology. 
21 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.3.2 Calibration Run Peak Analysis & Results Codes 
Figure 8: Calibration Peak Analysis & Results Codes 
Code 1: Unacceptable Total Peak Area 
- Less than 380,000 total peak area 
1. Cal/QC samples possibly too dilute. 
a. Check sample volume. Must have a minimum of 0.5mL of Cal/QC material in the vial. b. Check the 
dilution and verify that it is the proper dilution ratio specified in the Operator’s Manual and 
Cal/QC Package Insert. 2. Air leaks: system erratically sampling due to air leaking into the 
sampling circuit. If this is happening, air 
bubbles should be visible in the tube connecting the syringe module to the probe. a. Tighten fittings on 
Syringe Valve Manifold. b. Tighten Dilutor syringe (top and bottom). c. Tighten fitting at probe top. d. 
Diluent low – check to ensure that physical reagent levels match software reagent levels. 3. Plugged 
Pre-Injection Valve Frit: 75μm frit on the injection circuit is plugged. 
a. Replace the 75μm frit 
22 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 1: Unacceptable Total Peak Area 
- Greater than 1.5M total peak area 
1. Cal/QC re-constituted improperly 
a. Re-constitute new Cal/QC material as per the Package Insert. 2. Cal/QC diluted improperly 
a. Prepare new dilutions of Cal/QC material. Re-run calibration. 
Code 2: Unacceptable Height of Valley 
- Valley height greater than 1,000 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check for leaks. 2. Void Volume in the HPLC system. Void volume present in one of the critical 
junctions in the HPLC system. 
a. Check 2μm frit housing to confirm that it is tightened properly. b. Check column to make sure it is 
tightened properly 
23 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 3: Unacceptable Pressure Difference during Sample Analysis (%) 
- Unacceptable maximum pressure difference between pumps A & B during analysis 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check physical reagent levels, confirm that bottles have enough reagent and tubing is reaching the 
reagent 
levels. b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to 
check for air in debubblers with every change of reagent A or B and during activation as per Operator 
Daily Maintenance recommendations. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices → Pumps → Purge Pump. 
Turn the Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove bypass 
union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there is no 
significant pressure drop within the run. NOTE: The first 1/3 of the screen is when the A pump is 
pumping, the middle third of the screen is where the B pump is pumping and the last third of the screen is 
when the A pump is pumping. Lower pressure at the beginning, middle or end of the chromatogram can 
indicate which pump has lost prime. 
24 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 4: Unacceptable Total Pressure during Run (bar) 
- Unacceptable minimum system pressure during analysis - Unacceptable minimum-maximum pressure 
difference between pumps A & B during analysis 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check reagent level, confirm that bottles have enough reagent and tubing is reaching the reagent levels. 
b. Check debubblers, make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. c. From Main Menu, go to Devices → Pumps → Purge Pump. Turn 
the Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. d. Remove the column and install 
bypass union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. e. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. f. Run a Baseline and confirm that there is 
no significant pressure drop within the run. NOTE: The first 1/3 of the screen is when the A pump is 
pumping, the middle third of the screen is where the B pump is pumping and the last third of the screen is 
when the A pump is pumping. Lower pressure at the beginning, middle or end of the chromatogram can 
indicate which pump has lost prime. 2. Leak in System: 
a. Check tubing connections for leaks and tighten. 3. System pressure too high: plugged 2μm frit or 
column 
a. Change 2μm frit with every column change. 
25 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 5: Unacceptable First Peak Retention Time (minutes) 
- The non-glycated peak did not elute in the acceptable peak window 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check reagent level, confirm that bottles have enough reagent. b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, 
make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices → Pumps → Purge Pump. Turn 
the Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there 
is no significant pressure drop within the run. 2. Void Volume in the HPLC system. Void volume present 
in one of the critical junctions in the HPLC system. 
a. Check 2μm frit housing to confirm that it is tightened properly. b. Check column to make sure it is 
tightened properly 
26 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 6: Unacceptable Second Peak Retention Time (minutes) 
- The glycated peak did not elute in the acceptable peak window 
1. Loss of Prime: Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check reagent level, confirm that bottles have enough reagent. b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, 
make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices, Pumps, Purge Pump. Turn the 
Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there 
is no significant pressure drop within the run. 2. Void Volume in the HPLC system. Void volume present 
in one of the critical junctions in the HPLC system. 
a. Check 2μm frit housing to confirm that it is tightened properly. b. Check column to make sure it is 
tightened properly 
Code 7: Unacceptable Control I Result 
- Control level I material is not within the range stated on the package insert. 
Note: If the chromatography is abnormal, refer to section 9.4 before performing the following steps. 
1. Calibrate system. See Operator’s Manual section 6.3.2. 2. Incorrect dilution. Prepare new control 
samples with the correct dilution ratio listed on the pack insert. 3. Reagent debubblers full of air. Bleed 
the air out of the debubblers. 4. Control material. For lyophilized QC material, reconstituted QC material 
and haemolysate dilutions of reconstituted QC material, ensure the correct storage, reconstitution and 
expiration date, according to package insert(s). 
27 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 8: Unacceptable Control II Result 
- Control level II material is not within the range stated on the package insert. 
Refer to Code 7: Unacceptable Control I Result for appropriate Code 8 troubleshooting steps. 
Code 9: Not Applicable for Calibration Run 
Code 10: Not Applicable for Calibration Run 
Code 11: Not applicable for Calibration Run 
Code 12: Unacceptable Result Difference During Calibration (%) 
- Replicate calibration injections demonstrate a % area difference of greater than 5%. 
1. If the chromatography is abnormal, refer to section 9.4 before performing the following steps. 2. This 
code indicates there is more than 5% mathematical difference in the result of the replicate calibrator 
injections. This could indicate reproducibility issues during the system calibration. 3. Loss of Prime: 
Air in the HPLC system. 
a. Check physical reagent levels, confirm that bottles have enough reagent. 
28 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
b. Check for leaks. c. Check debubblers, make sure the air is bled out of them. Remember to check for air 
in debubblers with 
every change of reagent A or B. d. From Main Menu, go to Devices, Pumps, Purge Pump. Turn the 
Purge Pump on for 2 minutes. Confirm 
that the A and B reagent supply lines are primed completely. e. Remove the column and install bypass 
union. From Devices → Pumps → Solvent Control, run both A and B 
pumps at 50% each, 2ml/min, with reagents A and B selected (not wash) for 5 minutes. f. Remove 
bypass union, install analytical column and activate the system. g. Run a Baseline and confirm that there 
is no significant pressure drop within the run. 4. Leak in System: 
a. Check tubing connections for leaks and tighten. 
29 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
Code 13: Calibration Slope Value 
- Calibration slope greater than 2.0 
1. Incorrect dilution. Prepare new calibration samples with the correct dilution ratio listed on the pack 
insert. 2. Calibration material. For lyophilized QC material, reconstituted QC material and hemolysate 
dilutions of reconstituted QC material, ensure the correct storage, reconstitution and expiration date, 
according to package insert(s). 
30 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.4 General Chromatography Troubleshooting 
9.4.1 Normal Chromatography 
Figure 9: Normal Chromatography Explained 
The following explanations will give further detail of what to look for in the chromatography: 
1.  Baseline:  Indicated  by  the  green  trace,  this  should  be  flat,  however  not  completely  flat.  There  will 
always  be  some  noise  on  the  baseline  when  the  pumps  switch  from  A  to  B  and  back  to  A,  as  is  evident 
from  the  bumps  present.  This  green  trace  displays  the  system  noise  being  cancelled  out  from  the  final 
result, and should not cause any alarm. 
2.  Pressure:  It  is  paramount  that  the  pressure  remains  steady  throughout  the  run  in  order  to  achieve 
optimal  analysis  conditions.  Pressure  is  measured  in  units  of  Bar.  Pressure  fluctuations  typically  do  not 
exceed  1-  2  bar  when  system  pressure  is  10-25  Bar,  and  typically  do  not  exceed  2-3  Bar  when  system 
pressure  is  >25  bar.  Within-run  Δp  of  less  than  20%  will  not  be  flagged  with  a  Code  3 Peak Analysis & 
Results  Code  and  in  the  case  of the Premier should be considered normal as long as QC values are within 
range. 
3.  Peak  Shape:  The  peaks  should  be  sharp  and  resolute.  The  top  of  the  first  peak  should  not  be  much 
wider  than  the  second  hash  mark  in  the  chromatography  window.  The  second  peak  should  return  to 
baseline and should not shoulder in any way, which would indicate full and efficient elution. 
31 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
4.  Valley:  The  valley  should  always  return  to  baseline.  Sometimes  it  is  difficult  for  elevated  HbA1c 
samples  to  achieve  a  full  return  to  the  baseline,  but  it  should  be  very  close.  Elevated  baselines  are 
indicators of columns with high injection counts. 
5.  Tail:  The  second  peak  should  return  to  baseline  and  should  have  plenty  of  time to allow the system to 
re-  equilibrate  and  elute  all  biological  material  off  of  the  column  before  the  next  injection  so as to avoid 
carry- over. 
6. Retention Times: The retention times should remain consistent for each column. There may be minor 
differences from column-to-column, but these will be ≈1% fluctuations at most. 
7. Area counts: The system area count default settings will provide results from 250,000-2M. Ideal total 
peak area counts are typically from 800,000-1,000,000. 
8. Digital Pressure Monitor: This is the digital system pressure. For ideal pressure situations, see number 

above. 
9.4.2 General Recommendations 
There are a number of key system factors that can affect chromatography, the below items are general 
guidelines to aid in achieving the best system performance: 
1. Ensure preventative maintenance activities are up to date. 
2. Ensuring the activation settings are programmed as per user requirements will protect the system from 
unnecessary activation/deactivation cycles. 
3. It is recommended that the Premier Hb9210TM be deactivated daily in order to help eliminate 
impurities 
and salt build-up in the system. 
4. Shorter standby times will aid in maintaining system performance by avoiding holding the analytical 
column at 45oC in the column oven. Where possible, try to batch samples for analysis together. 
5. As when storing columns before use, if the column will go unused for a period greater than 7 days it is 
recommended to remove and store the column at 2-8oC. 
6. The introduction of air into the system can cause the resin to dry out. In order to avoid this, ensure 
debubblers are primed following changing of reagents. 
9.4.3 Hb Variants & Other Potentially Interfering Substances 
The  presence  of  haemoglobin  variants  and  other  potentially  interfering substances can impact upon some 
HbA1c  tests.  Details of the robustness of the Premier Hb9210TM in the presence of common variants and 
other potentially interfering substances are discussed in chapter 3 of this manual. 
32 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.4.4 Air in the Pumps 
Note the fluctuating pressure in the charted pressure reading (blue line). Possible Peak Analysis code 
numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 & 8. 
Figure 10: Chromatography with Air Bubble in B Pump 
9.4.5 Short sample 
Possible Peak Analysis code numbers: 1, 6, 7, 8 & 9. 
Figure 11: Short Sample 
33 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.5 Miscellaneous Operational Suggestions 
The below points are not measures of periodic maintenance; they are precautionary measures that can be 
taken, as needed. 
9.5.1 Proper Handling of Biohazardous Waste 
The  Trinity  Biotech  Premier  Hb9210TM  boronate  affinity  glycated  haemoglobin  analyzer  utilizes 
reagents  with  5%  alcohol  and  analyzes  very small volumes of blood samples. As such, it is not likely that 
any  infectious  agents  could  reside  in  the  liquid  waste  of  the  system.  However,  because  of  the  possible 
ecological  risks  of  the  instrument,  operators  must  be  trained  in  bio-hazardous  waste  training  in  order  to 
effectively reduce risk of contamination 
Because of the ecological risks of medical devices, the decontamination and disposal procedures 
associated with the instrument should be handled in accordance with the local regulations. 
General recommendations are as follows: 
✓ Appropriate decontamination is carried out if hazardous material comes in contact with the instrument. 
✓ No hazardous decontamination or cleaning agents should be used as a result of a reaction with parts of 
the 
equipment or with material contained on it. 
✓  Trinity  Biotech  or  the  applicable  distribution  partner  should  be  immediately  consulted  if  there  is  any 
doubt  about  the  compatibility  of  decontamination  or  cleaning  agents  with  parts  of  the equipment or with 
material contained on it. 
When dumping the liquid waste, the use of universal protective precautions should be taken, including the 
use of: 
1. Protective goggles 
2. Lab coat 
3. Disposable gloves 
The  waste  liquid  should be dumped down a sink that goes to a sanitary sewer system. It should be flushed 
with  cold  water  so  as  to  fully  dilute.  The  waste  tubing  from  the instrument should be wiped down with a 
freshly  prepared  10%  bleach  solution  to  decontaminate  them  while  changing  the  waste  container. 
Household  bleach  is  typically  a  5.25%  Sodium  Hypochlorite  solution.  Spills  on  the  external  surfaces (of 
the  waste container or sink) should be wiped down with this bleach solution. After removal of safety gear, 
hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water. 
34 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
9.6 Contacting Technical Support 
If  the  troubleshooting  steps  outlined  in  this  chapter  fail  to  resolve  an  issue,  please contact your technical 
support  team  immediately.  When  consulting with service representatives, provide as much information as 
possible in order to facilitate the most efficient and effective support possible. 
Below is a non-exhaustive list of key information to provide when requesting support: 
• Instrument Details 
- Serial number - Module serial number (if applicable) - Instrument software version 
• Description of the Issue 
- A description of the issue being observed - Note of all error codes observed - Details of any 
troubleshooting activities carried out to date - Preventative maintenance activities - Typical daily 
instrument workload - Column injection count 
• Chromatography 
- Example chromatography that clearly shows the issue described - Lot number information for all 
columns, reagents and consumables 
35 | Chapter 9 – Operator Troubleshooting Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM Data 
Transmission 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ ASTM E1394-97 
Protocol ✓ Data Transmission using 
Data Dump 
 
Chapter 10 - Data Transmission/LIS Protocol 
10.1 Premier Hb9210TM Data Transmission using ASTM E1394-97 Protocol 
10.1.1 Introduction 
Trinity  Biotech’s  HbA1c  analyzer,  the  Premier  Hb9210TM,  has  the  ability  to  transmit  data  to  a 
Laboratory  Information  System,  (LIS).  There  are  two  modes  of  transmitting  data  to  an  LIS,  ASCII  data 
dump  out  of  a  “dumb”  communication  port  and one that uses the ASTM E1394-97 and ASTM E1381-95 
protocols. 
10.1.2 General 
Trinity  Biotech’s  Premier  Hb9210TM  HbA1c  software  is  written  specifically  for  HbA1c  analysis  on 
Trinity  Biotech’s  analyzer,  the  Premier  Hb9210TM.  The  laboratory  runs any number of whole blood and 
hemolysate  samples  in  a  batch  mode. After analysis of the samples in the batch, all sample identifications 
and  results  are  sent  to  a  host  computer  or  a  LIS  in a batch mode, immediately after each sample, or both. 
Note: all control data is transmitted, but calibrator data is not. 
During  analysis  of  the  batch  of  samples,  each  sample  will  yield  a  chromatogram,  or  graph,  of  the 
separated  glycated  and  non-glycated  hemoglobin  proteins.  The  percentage  area  of  the  glycated 
hemoglobin  protein  peak  is  calculated  and  results  of  %HbA1c and millimoles HbA1c/mol Hb (mM A1c) 
are  given.  Laboratory  (Operator)  review  of  patient  result  chromatograms  and QC recovery verification is 
required  for  quality  assurance as required under the Laboratory’s quality and GLP programs. The Premier 
Hb9210TM  system  software  is sufficiently sophisticated to facilitate this process by detection of common 
“peak  code”  sample  and  system  management  errors  and  is  designed  to  aid  the  operator  in  the  detection 
and  prompt  resolution  of  basic  operational  needs  and  adjustments.  If  peak  codes  are  received  during  the 
run  and  cause  the  run  to  stop after x occurrences, LIS transmission will stop immediately. A dash symbol 
(-)  and  no  result  will  be  transmitted  to  the  LIS  in  the  event  of  detected  sample  and  system  management 
errors. 
Communication  between  the  HbA1c  software  and  the  LIS  is  bi-directional,  as  prescribed  by  the  ASTM 
E1394-97  protocol,  meaning  that acknowledgement and ready signals are transmitted between the HbA1c 
software  and  the  LIS.  But  communication  is  uni-directional  as  to  general  data  transfer,  meaning  that 
results  are  transmitted  to  the  LIS  and  run  lists,  test orders, and patient information are not downloaded to 
the HbA1c software from the LIS. 
Each patient set of results sent to the LIS will have a Header Record, a Patient Record, an Order Record, 
five (5) Result Records, and a Message Terminator Record. 
10.1.3 Physical Connection & Communication 
On  the  front  panel  of  the CPU Module on the Premier Hb9210TM is an RS-232-C, male, 9-pin connector 
for  interfacing  the  analyzer  with  a  LIS;  generally  com  port  2.  A  null  modem  cable  is  used  to  connect  to 
this  port  to  a  LIS.  Communication  is  user  selectable  baud  rate,  number  of  data  bits, parity, and stop bits. 
The default is 9600 baud rate, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit. 
1 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
10.2 ASTM E1394-97 Field Usage 
10.2.1 Header Record 
The  Header  Record  starts  with  the  “H”  character  (ASCII  72)  and  is  followed  by  the  characters  used  for 
the  Field  Delimiter,  “|”  (ASCII  124);  Repeat  Delimiter,  “\”  (ASCII  92);  Component  Delimiter,  “^” 
(ASCII  94)  and  the  Escape  Character,  “&”  (ASCII  38).  This  first  series  of  5 characters constitute the 1st 
field  of  the  Header  Record and as all fields, is followed by the Field Delimiter, “|”. The rest of the Header 
Record fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID H|\^& 
(Stands for Header record and consists of 5 characters) 2 Control ID Not used. 3 Access password Not 
used. 4 Instrument 
Identity 
ID of instrument in the format: “PREMIER^XXXXXX” (Quotation marks are not sent.) Component 1, 
PREMIER, is the instrument type; component 2, XXXXXX, is the instrument serial number. 5 Sender 
name / ID Not used. 6 Sender address Not used. 7 Reserved Not used. 8 Sender telephone 

Not used. 
9 Sender 
characteristics 
Not used. 
10 Receiver Identity ASTM RECVR 11 Receiver ID Not used. 12 Comment / 
instructions 
Not used. 
13 Processing ID P 
(stands for Production) 14 Specification 
version number 
E 1394-97 
15 Time stamp for message generation 
Current date and time in the format: YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 
As prescribed in the ASTM E1394-97 document that describes the protocol and fields of this usage, the 
fields are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field 
2 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
Delimiter.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not  end  with  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Header  Record 
will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields 
following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
10.2.2 Patient Record 
The Patient Record is used with minimal information. In this situation, the Patient Record is used only to 
signal that new patient results are forthcoming. The Patient Record fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID P 
(Stands for Patient type record) 2 Sequence number 1 through 7, then 
repeats. 
The  fields  are  separated  with  a  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not end with the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Patient  Record  will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
10.2.3 Order Record 
The Order Record is also used with minimal information, as the HbA1c software does not accept order or 
assay commands from the LIS. The Order Record fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID O 
(Stands for Order type record) 2 Sequence number 1 
(Only one Order per patient.) 3 LIS assigned Specimen ID 
Not used. 4 Instrument assigned Specimen 
ID field 
User entered (may be by barcode scanner) identification or accession number of patient sample. If no ID 
or sample name is entered a single space, (ASCII 32), will be the entry. 5 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^PREMIER HBA1C Parts 1 through 3 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus only 3 Component 
Delimiters are given for them. The last component of this field 
3 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
is PREMIER HBA1C, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 6 Priority R for Routine samples and S for 
Stat samples. 7 Requested / Ordered Priority Not used. 8 
Specimen Collection Date & 
Time 
Not used. 
9  Collection  End  Time  Not  used.  10  Collection  Volume  Not  used.  11  Collector  ID  Not  used. 12 Action 
Code  Not  used.  13  Danger  Code  Not  used.  14 Relevant Clinical Info Not used. 15 Date / Time Specimen 
Received  Not  used.  16  Specimen  Descriptor  Not  used.  17  Ordering  Physician  Not  used.  18  Physician's 
Tel # Not used. 19 User Field #1 Control Lot Number will be 
transmitted if “Transmit Control Lot Number” checkbox is selected. 20 User Field #2 Not used. 21 Lab 
Field #1 Not used. 22 Lab Field #2 Not used. 23 Date/Time Results Reported Not used. 24 Instrument 
Charge (billing) Not used. 25 Instrument Section ID R^VVV 
Component 1 is the rack number of the sample, a number from 1 to 4; and component 2 is the vial 
position number of the sample, a number from 001 to 010. Controls will use 0000^000 for this field 
value. 26 Report Type F 
(Stands for Final.) 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field Delimiter. The final field may or may not end with the Field Delimiter. The end of the Order Record 
will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields 
following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
4 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
10.2.4 Result Number 1 Record ... Result Number 5 Record 
The Result Records 1 through 5 are the actual results of the assay of each patient sample. The HbA1c 
software provides 2 results for each assay. 
The Result Record 1 fields are explained below (legacy reporting units of %GHb): 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 1 
(Test result 1 of 5.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^GHb Parts 1 through 3 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus only 3 Component Delimiters are 
given for them. The last component of this field is GHb, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value 
--- 5 Units of data % 
The percent character, (ASCII 37). 6 Reference Ranges Not used. 7 
Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11 Operator Identification 
field 
Not used. 
12 Date/Time Test Started 
field 
Not used. 
13 Date/Time Test 
Completed 
Date and time in the format: YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument 
Identification 
Not used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not  end  with  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Results 
Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM E1394-97 prescribed 
fields following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
5 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
The Result Record 2 fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 2 
(Test result 2 of 5.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^HbA1c Part 1 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus 1 Component Delimiter are given.. The last 
component of this field is HbA1c, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 0.0 through 
100.0 or 0.00 
through 100.00, with one or two fixed decimal places. 5 Units of data % 
The percent character, (ASCII 37). 6 Reference Ranges Not 
used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality Testing Not used. 9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in Instrument 
Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not 
used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the Results Record will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
6 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
The Result Record 3 fields are explained below (legacy reporting units of AG): 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 3 
(Test result 3 of 5.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^AG Parts 1 through 3 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus only 3 Component Delimiters are 
given for them. The last component of this field is AG, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value 
--- 5 Units of data mg/dl 6 Reference Ranges Not used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of 
Abnormality Testing Not used. 9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in Instrument 
Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not 
used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not  end  with  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Results 
Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM E1394-97 prescribed 
fields following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
7 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
The Result Record 4 fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 4 
(Test result 4 of 5.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^mMA1c Part 3 of the Universal Test ID is blank and thus a Component Delimiter is given for that 
place. Components of this field is mM A1c, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 0.0 
through 999.9, with one 
fixed decimal place or no decimal places. 5 Units of data mMolHbA1c/MolHb 6 Reference Ranges Not 
used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not used. 
The  fields  are  separated  with  the  Primus  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”;  empty  or  Not  used fields will only 
contain  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Results  Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return 
character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following  the  Carriage  Return  character 
will not be used and therefore not sent. 
8 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
The Result Record 5 fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 5 
(Test result 5 of 5.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^Code Part 3 of the Universal Test ID is blank and thus a Component Delimiter is given for that place. 
Components of this field is Code, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 1 through 11, 
more than one 
code could be displayed. 5 Units of data Not used. 6 Reference 
Ranges Not used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the Results Record will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
9 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
10.2.5 Message Terminator 
The Message Terminator is sent once all the results have been sent to the LIS. The Message Terminator 
fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID L 
(Stands for Message Terminator record) 2 Sequence number 1 
The  fields  are  separated  with  a  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not end with the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Message  Terminator  Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return 
character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following  the  Carriage  Return  character 
will not be used and therefore not sent. 
10.2.6 Communication to LIS Example 
The following is an example of communication to a Laboratory Information System (LIS) and the 
computer on the Premier Hb9210TM analyzing hemoglobin A1c samples using the software. 
10.2.7 Bi-directional Communication between the Premier Hb9210TM and the LIS 
The following is an example of communication to a Laboratory Information System (LIS) and the 
computer on the Premier Hb9210TM analyzing glycated hemoglobin samples using the software from 
system 100051. 
RX: H|\^&|||PREMIER^100051||||||ASTM RECVR|||P| 
E 1394-97|20090519153949<0D> RX: P|1<0D> RX: O|1||Sam Smith|^^^PREMIER 
HBA1C|R|||||||||||||||||||WX61^001|F<0D> RX: R|1|^^^GHb|---|%||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> RX: 
R|2|^^^HbA1c|9.0|%||||F||||20090519153950|||<0D> RX: 
R|3|^^^AG|---|mg/dl||||F||||20090519153950|||<0D> RX: 
R|4|^^^mMA1c|73.2|mMolHbA1c/MolHb||||F||||20090519153950|||<0D> RX: R|5|^^^Code|1 8 12 
|||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> 
RX: P|2<0D> ...... ...... RX: L|1<0D> 
Where: RX is Premier transmitted records (received by LIS) 
<0D> is a Carriage Return 
10 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
10.3 Premier Hb9210TM Data Transmission using Data Dump 
10.3.1 Introduction 
Trinity  Biotech’s  HbA1c  analyzer,  the  Premier  Hb9210TM,  has  the  ability  to  transmit  data  to  a 
Laboratory  Information  System,  (LIS).  There  are  two  modes  of  transmitting  data  to  an  LIS,  ASCII  data 
dump  out  of  a  “dumb”  communication  port  and one that uses the ASTM E1394-97 and ASTM E1381-95 
protocols. 
10.3.2 General 
Trinity Biotech’s Premier Hb9210TM HbA1c software is written specifically for HbA1c analysis on 
Trinity Biotech’s analyzer, the Premier Hb9210TM. 
The  laboratory  runs  any  number of whole blood and haemolysate samples in a batch mode. After analysis 
of  the  samples  in  the batch, the sample identifications and results are sent to a host computer or a LIS in a 
batch  mode, immediately after each sample, or both. During analysis of the batch of samples, each sample 
will  yield  a  chromatogram,  or  graph,  of  the  separated  glycated  and  non-glycated  hemoglobin  proteins. 
The  percentage  area  of  the  glycated  hemoglobin  protein  peak  is  calculated  and  results  of  %HbA1c  and 
millimoles  HbA1c/mol  Hb  (mM  A1c)  are  given.  Please  note  that  analysis  is  transmitted  to  a  LIS,  each 
chromatogram  should  have  a  trained  user  quickly  look  at  each  chromatogram  for  acceptability.  The 
results are then transmitted to the LIS. 
Communication between the HbA1c software and the LIS is uni-directional. This option of data transfer 
does not use any acknowledgment of data sent; that is to say it is a “dumb” data dump. 
10.3.3 Physical Connection & Communication 
On  the  front  panel  of  the  CPU  Module  on  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  is  an  RS-232-C,  male,  9-pin  pin 
connector  for  interfacing  the  analyzer  with  a  LIS;  generally  com  port  2.  A  null  modem  cable  is  used  to 
connect  to  this  port  to  a  LIS. Communication is user selectable baud rate, number of data bits, parity, and 
stop bits. The default is 9600 baud rate, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit. 
10.3.4 Data Field Usage 
A record will start with “/TRINITY BIOTECH PREMIER”. Then identified by what type of result record, 
“(Individual)” or “(Batch)” and followed with the Field Delimiter, “|” (ASCII 124). Following is the name 
of  the  system,  batch  number,  rack  position,  and  sample  ID.  Then  the  results  are  given  with  the  proper 
units.  Each  of  the  fields  are  separated  by  the  Field  Delimiter,  “|”  (ASCII  124).  The  record  ends  with  a 
carriage return and a line feed (ASCII 13 and ASCII 10). 
Each record will be treated as having a varying number of fields with the following conditions... 
✓ Each field is delimited with a “|” character. 
11 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
✓ The first field will start with a “/TRINITY BIOTECH PREMIER”. Then identified by what type of 
result record, 
“(Individual)” or “(Batch)”. The first field will be consistent with each version of software. 
✓ Subsequent fields may be in any order. These fields will have the general form: 
“Fieldname=Value&Units” 
1. System Serial#= 2. Batch= 3. Position=Rack:Vial 4. ID= 5. GHb=--- 6. HbA1c=xx.x% or xx.xx% 7. 
AG=--- 8. mMA1c=xxx mMolHbA1c/MolHb or xxx.x mMolHbA1c/MolHb 9. Code=xx (if enabled) 10. 
Data Points=x,x,x,x,x... (if enabled) 
10.3.5 Premier Hb9210TM Communication to LIS Example 
The  following  is  an  example  of  communication  to  a  Laboratory  Information  System  (LIS)  and  the 
computer  on  the  Premier  Hb9210TM  analyzing  glycohaemoglobin  samples  using  the  software  from 
system 100051, batch 3129. 
10.3.6 Uni-directional Communication Between Premier Hb9210TM and the LIS 
RX: /TRINITY BIOTECH PREMIER (Batch)|System Serial#=100051 |Batch=3129| 
Position=WX6I:001|ID=Sam Smith |GHb=---|HbA1c=8.9%| AG=---|mMA1c=72.5 
mMolHbA1c/MolHb|Code=3 4 10|Data Points=1,1,-1,-3,-2,-1,- 
1,0,1,39,442,3113,9440,13952,12531,8385,4742,2455,1209,632,379,257,194,158,133,116,102,9 
2,83,77,71,65,64,64,62,65,111,295,446,427,351,294,261,243,233,222,206,184,157,131,109,87,6 
9,54,44,37,34,33,30,26 <0D><0A> 
Where: RX is Premier transmitted records (received by LIS) 
<0D> is a Carriage Return <0A> is a Line Feed 
12 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
13 | Chapter 10 – Data Transmission Rev. 23 
 
PREMIER Hb9210TM TLA Appendix 
CHAPTER CONTENTS 
✓ TLA Premier Connection ✓ TLA Premier Operation ✓ TLA LIS Protocol 
 
TLA Appendix – TLA Premier Hb9210TM 
TLA 1. System Overview 
This section provides a physical overview of the TLA Premier Hb9210TM. 
Physical TLA Connection Overview 
The  TLA  Premier  Hb9210TM  is  connected  to  the  Inpeco  track  system  via  an  Interface  Module.  The 
Interface  Module  transports  sample  tubes  towards  the  analyser,  whereby  the  analyser  can  aspirate  the 
sample  via the Probe Needle. During sampling, the sample tube is held in place by the Tube Locker. Once 
the  sampling  has  completed,  the  Tube  Locker  releases  the  sample  and  it  is  routed  back  onto  the  main 
track system. 
Figure  1  below  is  a  plan  view  of  the  main  track,  outlined  in  orange,  connected  to  the  Interface  Module, 
outlined  in  green.  The  TLA  Premier  Hb9210TM  sits  on  top  of  the  Interface  Module  and  is  outlined  in a 
dashed blue line. A reference to each important stage in the sampling process is listed below Figure 1. 
Figure 1: Plan View - TLA Premier Hb9210TM Interface Module & Main Track 
1 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
1. The location of the TLA Premier Hb9210TM Analyser. 
2. The location where the sample tube is diverted from the main lane to the pit lane of the TLA Premier 
Hb9210TM . 
3. The location where the sample tube leaves the main track and enters the inward belt on the Interface 
Module. 
4. The location were the sample tubes stop and wait while there is a current sample tube under the Probe. 
5. The transport grip that moves the sample tube towards and away from the Probe. 
6. The location where the sample tube is under the Probe during sampling. 
7. The location where the sample tube enters the outward belt on the Interface Module. 
8. The location where the sample tube returns back onto the main track. 
Figure  2  below  highlights  the  items  the  Operator will interact with on TLA Interface Module, namely the 
External  and  Internal  TLA  Buttons  and  the  Carousel  Wheel.  Please  note  that  the  Premier  Hb9210TM 
instrument has been removed from this image to give a clearer view of the TLA Interface Module. 
Figure 2: TLA Buttons & Carousel Wheel 
1. External TLA Button – depending on system status can light up green, red, yellow or white. 
2. Internal TLA Button – lights up blue when active. 
3. Carousel Wheel – the wheel has 10 positions, first 4 positions are used for calibrators and controls, the 
remaining 6 positions are used for Priority Samples. 




2 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
TLA 2. System Operation 
The sections below provide instructions on how to enable TLA connection, how to calibrate, run samples 
and set the Control Scheme on the TLA Premier Hb9210TM. 
Enable TLA System Connection 
✓ From the Main Menu, select Edit → System 
Parameters icon (see Figure 3). 
Figure 3: System Parameters 
✓  In  the  System  Parameters  window,  ensure  that  ‘Enable connection of Inpeco TLA System’ is checked 
(see Figure 4). 
Figure 4: System Parameters Window 
✓  LIS  Communication  parameters  should  be  chosen  based  upon  individual  customer  requirements  (see 
Figure 5). 
Figure 5: LIS Communication 
3 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
TLA System Calibration 
Prior to running a system calibration, the system must have completed steps 1 & 2: 
1. Activation – see section 6.3.1 
2. Baseline – see section 6.3.3 
Then continue with the following steps: 
3. Return to the Main Menu by touching or clicking the ‘Show User Interface’ button on the top left of the 
main Premier Hb9210TM assay screen. 
4. From the Main Menu screen, select the ‘Operation’ icon. 
5.  From  the  Operation  Menu,  select  the  ‘Run  Calibration’  option  shown  below.  This  process  includes  a 
baseline  noise  calibration  to  cancel  out  any  system  noise  (e.g.  Pumps,  other  vibrations)  from  the  final 
chromatography. 
Figure 6: Operation Menu - Run Calibration Selection 
The Calibration Run dialogue shown in Figure 7. NOTE: The 1x option has been disabled. Only the 2x 
and 3x options are available (for improved calibration accuracy). 
6.  By  selecting  the  Run  Controls  Only  option,  the  system  will  simply  run  Control  I, then Control II (and 
not the calibrators). 
7.  Select  the  Run  button,  circled  in  Red  in Figure 7. This will initiate the Calibration Run but the run will 
not  begin  until  the  Calibrators  and  controls  are placed on the TLA Carousel Wheel and the External TLA 
button is pressed. 
Figure 7: Run Calibration Confirmation Dialogue 
4 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
8. Press the External TLA button (Figure 2 Item 1). The button should turn solid red. This allows access 
to the 
Carousel Wheel. 
9. The Internal TLA button located beside the Carousel Wheel will now light up solid blue (Figure 2 Item 
2). Open 
the Carousel Access Cover and load the Calibrators and Controls on the Carousel Wheel (Figure 2 Item 
3). 
10. Pressing the Internal TLA button will rotate the TLA Carousel Wheel one position at a time. The 
Calibrators and 
Controls should be placed on the wheel in the following order and locations: 
✓ Position 1: Calibrator 1 
✓ Position 2: Calibrator 2 
✓ Position 3: Control I 
✓ Position 4: Control II 
Figure 8: Calibrator and Control Locations 
11. Once the Calibrators and Controls are loaded, close the Carousel Access Cover. 
12. Press the External TLA button. Once pressed, the button will flash yellow. It will then turn solid 
yellow and the 
Calibration will begin. 
5 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
When  the  Carousel  Access  Cover  is  opened,  Position  1  will  be  first  position  presented.  There  are  10  positions  in 
total.  The  first  4  positions  are  for  the  Calibrators  and  Controls.  The  remaining  6 positions are for Priority Samples. 
Pressing  the  Internal  TLA  button  will  move  to  the  next  position.  When  position  10  is  reached,  pressing  the  button 
one more time will revert the wheel back to position 1. 
 
Running Priority Samples 
Prior to running Priority Samples, the system must be Activated and Calibrated. 
1. From the Main Menu, select Operation then 
select Priority Samples (see Figure 9). 
Figure 9: Priority Samples 
2. In the Priority Samples menu, check the required priority samples to run and press the Run icon. Figure 
10 
illustrates 3 priority samples to be run in positions 5, 6 and 7. 
Figure 10: Priority Sample Run Menu 
6 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
There  are  6  positions  for  Priority  Samples.  They  are  positions  5,  6,  7,  8,  9  and  10  on  the  Carousel  Wheel.  If  the 
system  is  currently  processing  samples  from  the track, and the Priority Sample Run button is pressed in the SW, the 
system  will  finish  the  current sample and then go to stand by. It will then process all priority samples. All remaining 
samples from the track will then be processed after the Priority Samples. 
 
3. Press the External TLA button (Figure 2 Item 1). The button should turn solid red. This allows access 
to the 
Carousel Wheel (Figure 2 Item 3). 
4. The Internal TLA button located beside the Carousel Wheel will now light up solid blue (Figure 2 Item 
2). Open 
the Carousel Access Cover and load the number Priority Samples that were selected in Figure 10. 
5. Once the Priority Samples are loaded, close the Carousel Access Cover. 
6. Press the External TLA button. Once pressed, the button will flash yellow. It will then turn solid yellow 
and the 
Priority Sample run will begin. 
Accessing the TLA Carousel Wheel 
The TLA Carousel Wheel can be accessed when the system is not running, to remove sample tubes, by 
following the steps below: 
1. Press the External TLA button (Figure 2 Item 1). The button should turn solid red. This allows access 
to the 
Carousel Wheel (Figure 2 Item 3). 
2. The Internal TLA button located beside the Carousel Wheel will now light up solid blue (Figure 2 Item 
2). Open 
the Carousel Access Cover and remove the desired tubes. 
Control Scheme 
The Control Scheme can be customised to run Controls at specific intervals throughout a batch run. The 
instructions below detail how to set the Control Scheme: 
1. From the Main Menu, select Edit then select 
Control Scheme icon (see Figure 11). 
Figure 11: Control Scheme Icon 
2. In the Control Scheme window, it is possible to: 
✓  Alternate  Control  I  &  II  every  interval  –  selecting  this  option and setting the interval to 0, no controls 
will  run.  By  setting  a  desired  interval  number,  Control  I  will  run  after  the  desired  number  of  samples 
followed  by  Control  II  at  the  next  interval  of  samples.  This  pattern  will  repeat  until  the  batch  run 
completes. See Figure 12. 
✓  Run  Control  I  &  II  every  interval  –  selecting  this  option  and  setting  the  interval to 0, no controls will 
run.  By  setting  a  desired  interval  number,  Control  I  &  II  will  run  after  the  desired  number  of  samples. 
This pattern will repeat until the batch run completes. See Figure 12. 
7 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
Figure 12: Control Scheme Options 
8 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
TLA 3. TLA LIS Protocol 
LIS Transmission (ASTM E1394) 
Each patient set of results sent to the LIS will have: 
✓ Header Record – only sent once at beginning of transmission. ✓ Patient Record ✓ Order Record ✓ 
Six Result Records ✓ Message Terminator Record – only sent once at end of transmission. 
Header Record 
The  Header  Record  starts  with  the  “H”  character  (ASCII  72)  and  is  followed  by  the  characters  used  for 
the  Field  Delimiter,  “|”  (ASCII  124);  Repeat  Delimiter,  “\”  (ASCII  92);  Component  Delimiter,  “^” 
(ASCII  94)  and  the  Escape  Character,  “&”  (ASCII  38).  This  first  series  of  5 characters constitute the 1st 
field  of  the  Header  Record and as all fields, is followed by the Field Delimiter, “|”. The rest of the Header 
Record fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID H|\^& 
(Stands for Header record and consists of 5 characters) 2 Control ID Not used. 3 Access password Not 
used. 4 Instrument 
Identity 
ID of instrument in the format: “PREMIER^XXXXXX” (Quotation marks are not sent.) Component 1, 
PREMIER, is the instrument type; component 2, XXXXXX, is the instrument serial number. 5 Sender 
name / ID Not used. 6 Sender address Not used. 7 Reserved Not used. 8 Sender telephone 

Not used. 
9 Sender 
characteristics 
Not used. 
10 Receiver Identity ASTM RECVR 11 Receiver ID Not used. 12 Comment / 
instructions 
Not used. 
13 Processing ID P 
(stands for Production) 
9 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
14 Specification 
version number 
E 1394-97 
15 Time stamp for message generation 
Current date and time in the format: YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 
As  prescribed  in  the  ASTM  E1394-97  document  that  describes  the  protocol  and  fields  of  this  usage,  the 
fields  are  separated  with  a  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”;  empty  or  Not  used  fields  will  only  contain  the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not  end  with  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Header 
Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM E1394-97 prescribed 
fields following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
Patient Record 
The Patient Record is used with minimal information. In this situation, the Patient Record is used only to 
signal that new patient results are forthcoming. The Patient Record fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID P 
(Stands for Patient type record) 2 Sequence number 1 through 7, then 
repeats. 
The  fields  are  separated  with  a  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not end with the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Patient  Record  will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
Order Record 
The Order Record is also used with minimal information, as the HbA1c software does not accept order or 
assay commands from the LIS. The Order Record fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID O 
(Stands for Order type record) 2 Sequence number 1 
(Only one Order per patient.) 3 LIS assigned Specimen ID 
Not used. 4 Instrument assigned Specimen 
ID field 
User entered (may be by barcode scanner) identification or accession number of patient sample. If no ID 
or sample 
10 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
name is entered a single space, (ASCII 32), will be the entry. 5 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^PREMIER HBA1C Parts 1 through 3 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus only 3 Component 
Delimiters are given for them. The last component of this field is PREMIER HBA1C, which is the 
Manufacturer's Code. 6 Priority R for Routine samples and S for 
Stat samples. 7 Requested / Ordered Priority Not used. 8 
Specimen Collection Date & 
Time 
Not used. 
9  Collection  End  Time  Not  used.  10  Collection  Volume  Not  used.  11  Collector  ID  Not  used. 12 Action 
Code Q for Control samples otherwise 
empty 13 Danger Code Not used. 14 Relevant Clinical Info 
Not used. 15 Date / Time Specimen Received Not used. 16 Specimen Descriptor Blood type. H for 
haemolysate 
samples, A for anaemic samples and empty for whole blood samples. 17 Ordering Physician Not used. 18 
Physician's Tel # Not used. 19 User Field #1 Not used. 20 User Field #2 Not used. 21 Lab Field #1 Not 
used. 22 Lab Field #2 Not used. 23 Date/Time Results Reported Not used. 24 Instrument Charge (billing) 
Not used. 25 Instrument Section ID TLA^000 
TLA^001 for STAT samples only 26 Report Type F 
(Stands for Final.) 
The fields are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field Delimiter. The final field may or may not end with the Field Delimiter. The end of the Order Record 
will 
11 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 13). Any ASTM E1394-97 prescribed fields 
following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
The Premier HbA1c software provides 4 results for each assay. The Result Records 1 through 4 are the 
actual results of the assay of each patient sample. 
The Result Record 1 fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 1 
(Test result 1 of 6.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^GHb Parts 1 through 3 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus only 3 Component Delimiters are 
given for them. The last component of this field is GHb, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value 
--- 5 Units of data % 
The percent character, (ASCII 37). 6 Reference Ranges Not used. 7 
Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11 Operator Identification 
field 
Not used. 
12 Date/Time Test Started 
field 
Not used. 
13 Date/Time Test 
Completed 
Date and time in the format: YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument 
Identification 
Not used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not  end  with  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Results 
Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM E1394-97 prescribed 
fields following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
12 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
The Result Record 2 fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 2 
(Test result 2 of 6.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^HbA1c Part 1 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus 1 Component Delimiter are given. The last 
component of this field is HbA1c, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 0.0 through 
100.0 or 0.00 
through 100.00, with one or two fixed decimal places. 5 Units of data % 
The percent character, (ASCII 37). 6 Reference Ranges Not 
used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality Testing Not used. 9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in Instrument 
Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not 
used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the Results Record will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
The Result Record 3 fields are explained below (legacy reporting units of AG): 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 
13 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
2 Sequence number 3 
(Test result 3 of 6.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^AG Parts 1 through 3 of the Universal Test ID are blank and thus only 3 Component Delimiters are 
given for them. The last component of this field is AG, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value 
--- 5 Units of data mg/dl or mmol/l 
User selectable. For milligrams per deciliter or millimoles per litre. 6 Reference Ranges Not used. 7 
Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality Testing Not used. 9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in Instrument 
Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not 
used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not  end  with  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Results 
Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return  character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM E1394-97 prescribed 
fields following the Carriage Return character will not be used and therefore not sent. 
14 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
The Result Record 4 fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 4 
(Test result 4 of 6.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^mMA1c Part 3 of the Universal Test ID is blank and thus a Component Delimiter is given for that 
place. Components of this field is mMA1c, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 0.0 
through 999.9, with one 
fixed decimal place or no decimal places. 5 Units of data mMolHbA1c/MolHb 6 Reference Ranges Not 
used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not used. 
The  fields  are  separated  with  the  Primus  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”;  empty  or  Not  used fields will only 
contain  the  Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Results  Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return 
character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following  the  Carriage  Return  character 
will not be used and therefore not sent. 
15 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
The Result Record 5 fields are explained below (if transmitting codes is disabled, this record will be 
deleted): 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 5 
(Test result 5 of 6.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^Code Part 3 of the Universal Test ID is blank and thus a Component Delimiter is given for that place. 
Components of this field is Code, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 1 through 12, 
more than one 
code could be displayed. 5 Units of data Not used. 6 Reference 
Ranges Not used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the Results Record will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
16 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
The Result Record 6 fields are explained below (if chromatogram points is disabled, this record will be 
deleted): 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID R 
(Stands for Results type record) 2 Sequence number 6 
(Test result 6 of 6.) 3 Universal Test ID and 
Manufacturer's Code 
^^^Data Points Part 3 of the Universal Test ID is blank and thus a Component Delimiter is given for that 
place. Components of this field is Data Points, which is the Manufacturer's Code. 4 Data Value Value of 
integers. Total of 60 averaged data points (sampled from all the data points) are displayed. 5 Units of data 
Not used. 6 Reference Ranges Not used. 7 Result Abnormal Flags Not used. 8 Nature of Abnormality 
Testing 
Not used. 
9 Status F 
(Stands for Final) 10 Date of Change in 
Instrument Normative Values field 
Not used. 
11  Operator  Identification  field  Not  used.  12  Date/Time  Test  Started  field  Not  used.  13  Date/Time  Test 
Completed Date and time in the format: 
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS 14 Instrument Identification Not used. 
The  fields  are separated with a defined Field Delimiter, “|”; empty or Not used fields will only contain the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the Results Record will be indicated with a Carriage Return character (ASCII 
13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following the Carriage Return character will not be used and 
therefore not sent. 
17 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
Message Terminator Record 
The Message Terminator is sent once all the results have been sent to the LIS. The Message Terminator 
fields are explained below: 
# Field Value or Use 1 Record type ID L 
(Stands for Message Terminator record) 2 Sequence number 1 
The  fields  are  separated  with  a  defined  Field  Delimiter,  “|”.  The  final  field  may  or  may  not end with the 
Field  Delimiter.  The  end  of  the  Message  Terminator  Record  will  be  indicated  with  a  Carriage  Return 
character  (ASCII  13).  Any  ASTM  E1394-97  prescribed  fields  following  the  Carriage  Return  character 
will not be used and therefore not sent. 
Example of ASTM E1394 Transmission between Premier and the LIS 
Records Received by LIS: 
RX: H|\^&|||PREMIER^XXXXXX||||||ASTM RECVR|||P| E 1394-97|20090519153949<0D> RX: 
P|1<0D> RX: O|1||Jon Davis|^^^PREMIER HBA1C|R|||||||||||||||||||TLA^000|F<0D> RX: 
R|1|^^^GHb|---|%||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> RX: R|2|^^^HbA1c|9.0|%||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> 
RX: R|3|^^^AG|---|mg/dl||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> RX: 
R|4|^^^mMA1c|73.2|mMolHbA1c/MolHb||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> RX: R|5|^^^Code|1 8 12 
|||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> (if transmitting codes is disabled, this record will be deleted) RX: 
R|6|^^^Data Points|1,1,-1,-3,-2,-1,- 
1,0,1,39,442,3113,9440,13952,12531,8385,4742,2455,1209,632,379,257,194,158,133, 
116,102,92,83,77,71,65,64,64,62,65,111,295,446,427,351,294,261,243,233,222,206,18 
4,157,131,109,87,69,54,44,37,34,33,30,26 |||||F||||20090519153950||<0D> (if transmitting chromatogram 
points is disabled, this record will be deleted) RX: P|2<0D> ...... ...... RX: L|1<0D> Where: RX is Premier 
transmitted records (received by LIS) <0D> is a Carriage Return 
18 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
Host Query Message Format 
1. Query message 
This section describes the query message structure and each record. 
Query message structure (Premier Instrument -> PC (LIS)) 
Query header record H Query Record Q Message End Record L 
Query record is composed of 13 fields. 
# Field Description Remark (Example) 1 Record Type Set Character “Q” 2 Sequence No. Set Digit “1” 3 
Patient ID Sample ID (*1,*2,*3) “123456789012345” 13 Query Code Indicates the content of query 
(Request an order) 
“O” 
End of record End of record <CR> (0x)D) 
Example 1: Q|1|123456789012345||||||||||O<CR> 
Example 2: Q|1|12345678901234567890123||||||||||O<CR> 
(*1) Sample ID consists of one component only. (*2) Sample ID has no length restriction. (*3) Sample ID 
is not padded with any character. The ‘|’ character should be used for splitting. 
2. Response Message 
Response message structure (PC (LIS) -> Premier Instrument) 
Message header record H Patient information record P Test order record O Message end record L 
✓ Patient information record is composed of 2 fields. 
# Field Description Remark (Example) 1 Record Type Set Character “P” 
19 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
2 Sequence No. Sequence number starting with “1” “1” 
End of record End of record <CR> (0x0D) Example: P|1<CR> 
✓ Test Order Record 
Test order record is composed of 16 fields, which are different from those of the measurement result 
message. 
# Field Description Remark (Example) 1 Record Type Set Character “O” 2 Sequence No. Set digit “1” 3 
Patient ID Sample ID (*1,*2,*3) “123456789012345” 5 Measurement 
Item 
Measurement item name (either of below) 
1. Measure (*4) 2. No measure 
1. “^^^HbA1c” 2. NULL (No output) 
6 Priority Priority Code (Routine Sample) “R” 16 Sample type Sample type (either of below) 
1. Whole blood Sample (default) 2. Haemolysate Sample 3. Anemic Sample 
1. NULL 2. “H” 3. “A” 
End of record End of record <CR> (0x0D) 
Example 1: O|1|123456789012345||^^^HbA1c|R||||||||||H<CR> 
Example 2: O|1|12345678901234567890123||^^^HbA1c|R||||||||||H<CR> 
(*1) Sample ID consists of one component only. (*2) Sample ID has no length restriction. (*3) Sample ID 
is not padded with any character. The ‘|’ character should be used for splitting. (*4) Measurement item 
consists of four components but the first three are not used. 
20 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 
 
21 | TLA Appendix Rev. 22 

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