(80001189-102) Alinity C GLB FS Training

Alinity c
Global Field Service Training Program
Participant Guide
Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102

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ii Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102

Table of Contents
Alinity c
Course Overview.........................................................................................Intro-1
1 Instrument Overview and Basic Operations................................................... 1-1
2 Power Distribution.............................................................................................. 2-1
3 Electronic Circuitry............................................................................................ 3-1
4 Robotics............................................................................................................. 4-1
5 Fluidics............................................................................................................... 5-1
6 Optics................................................................................................................. 6-1
7 Temperature Control......................................................................................... 7-1
8 Installation and Integration.............................................................................. 8-1
9 Lab Practical and Final Exam.......................................................................... 9-1
A Appendix - Additional Handouts and Information........................................A-1
Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only |80001189-102 iii

Revision History
Revision History
Document Control
Revision Date Content or Pages Revised, Added, or Deleted
Number
80001189-101 December 2017 New
80001189-102 February 2019 All pages revised or added
Any product information in training materials should be used in conjunction with the latest
version of the Operations Manual, Operations Manual addendum, or Product Information
Letter. If discrepancies in information exist within training materials or any other materials,
the latest version of the Operations Manual, Operations Manual addendum, or Product
Information Letter takes precedence.
All samples (printouts, graphics, displays or screens, etc.) are for information and illustration
purposes only and shall not be used for clinical or maintenance evaluations. Data shown in
sample printouts and screens do not reflect actual patient names or test results.
Each person assumes full responsibility and all risks arising from use of the Information. The
Information is presented “AS IS” and may include technical inaccuracies or typographical
errors. Abbott Laboratories reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to
the Information at any time without any prior notification.
All Abbott Laboratories product names and trademarks are owned by or licensed to Abbott
Laboratories, its subsidiaries or affiliates. No use of any Abbott trademark, trade name, trade
dress, or product name may be made without the prior written authorization of Abbott
Laboratories, except to identify the product or services of Abbott Laboratories. All other
trademarks, brands, product names, and trade names are the property of their respective
companies. All rights reserved. Except as permitted above, no license or right, expressed or
implied, is granted to any person under any patent, trademark, or other proprietary right of
Abbott Laboratories.
This guide was developed and produced by Global Service Training, Dallas, TX.
© 2017, 2019 Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Illinois.
iv Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102

Course Overview
Course Overview
Module Timing: 1.5 Hours
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this learning module, you should be able to:
•• List the technical skills you are expected to perform by the end of
class
•• Recognize the supplemental resources (for example, Service and

Operations Manuals) that will be used throughout the course
•• Explain key safety and compliance service information
•• Describe how to apply Active Sense Technologies (AST) tools and

Service Cadence concepts to servicing the Alinity c
Topics
The following topics are covered in this learning module:
•• Training Overview
•• Service Cadence
Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102 Intro-1
Course Overview Training Overview
Training Overview
Instrument Description
The Alinity ci-series provides full integration of clinical chemistry and
immunoassay analysis. The Alinity ci-series includes a clinical chemistry
module and an immunoassay module, each performing all sample
processing activities, and a system control module to provide a single
common interface. Each system can be customized by combining up
to four sample processing modules, in multiple configurations, with a
system control module to form a single workstation or workcell. Most
Alinity systems are multimodules and consist of two modules: a ci-series,
two c, or two i integrated modules.
The Alinity c processing module is a fully automated chemistry analyzer

allowing random and continuous access, as well as priority and
automated retest processing using photometric and potentiometric
detection technology. Photometric detection technology measures
sample absorbance for the quantification of analyte concentration.
Potentiometric detection technology measures the electrical potential
in a sample using an integrated chip technology (ICT) module. The
ICT module measures the potentiometric for the electrolyte assays
[Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Chloride (Cl)].
Intro-2 Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102
Training Overview Course Overview
Goals
Upon completion of this training program, you will be able to:
•• Use online resources to locate Alinity c product information and

procedures
•• Describe the role each major functional area plays in the Alinity c
clinical chemistry process
•• Perform basic operations, including daily maintenance, basic run,

and calibrations
•• Use resources to interpret troubleshooting data, isolate root causes

of failure, and verify normal operation
•• Perform key maintenance, diagnostic, instrument installation, and

component removal and replacement procedures
•• Integrate AST Tools, Service Cadence, HCP, HCI, and Predictive

concepts with instrument support
Prerequisite Activities
In preparation for class, you must complete pre-training prior to
the class. This material is mandatory. It is designed to provide a
baseline level of knowledge and will immediately begin building
your understanding of the Alinity c. The material will not be covered
in class. It ensures all learners are at the same level of preparedness
for classroom activities and supports maximum hands-on instrument
troubleshooting during the training.
Prerequisite activities that must be completed are:
•• Course pre-training:
Alinity c Overview CBT
Alinity System Software CBT
Alinity ci-series SCM, Computers & Software Overview
Clinical Chemistry CBT
AbbottLink Customer Training CBT
Service Tools Overview
AST Tools Overview CBT
•• Obtain AbbottLink ID and password to access AbbottLink.
•• Apply for Abbott Medical Password Generator (AMDPG)

application access (refer to the current related KM article).
•• Download LOG-ICAL application to your computer.
•• Download the Alinity c Service Training Guide to your iPad if you

have an iPad.
Materials
The information for the Alinity c Field Service Training will be presented
by instructors using the following materials:
•• Alinity c Global Field Service Training Program
•• Alinity c Service Documentation
•• Alinity ci-series Operations Manual (Online Help)
•• Alinity c Assay-specific Package Inserts
•• Knowledge Management troubleshooting database
•• Remote diagnostics tools: AbbottLink and LOG-ICAL
•• Ticket Code Tools (TCT) Database
•• Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
•• Instrument Service Advisories (ISA)
Note: All example printouts, graphics, displays, screens, etc. are

for information and illustration purposes only. Actual printouts,
graphics, displays, screens, etc. may vary depending on software
revision, hardware revision, and instrument configuration.
The Service Documentation, System Operations Manual, assay-specific

package inserts, TSBs, and ISAs can be accessed through the Abbott
Global Service and Support (MyGSS) intranet site unless otherwise
noted.
Service personnel should keep their laptop, iPad, and programs

updated to contain the most current revision of materials and
programs.
How To Use This Guide
Typography
Black Text Black text appears in both the Facilitator Guide and Participant
Guide.
Citation Book titles and other references are indicated by green text.
Activity: Name of Activity
Activity: Activities are provided throughout the guide to give you an opportunity to
practice the concepts and techniques discussed.
Note: The facilitator and participants should review activity steps

together before commencing individual actions.
Special Tables for Notes and References
Note: Denotes operator or service information.

Caution: Denotes a condition or activities that could result in minor
injury or interfere with proper functioning of the system.
WARNING: Denotes a physical, mechanical, or procedural condition

that could result in moderate to serious personal injury.
Reference: This notation provides references to published materials

or online manuals.
Abbott: Calls attention to activity using resources only available to

Abbott personnel.
Safety and Hazards

The Alinity c has been designed for optimum operator safety.
However, this does not reduce the importance of safety awareness
where hazards exist. This section describes the types and locations of
potential hazards that could cause physical harm or damage to the
laboratory environment or where failure to follow instructions may result
in instrument failure or generation of erroneous patient results.
WARNING: You must follow approved service documents when servicing

ADD products to ensure the product is performing within
specifications and meets regulatory approval. Failure to
maintain our product per approved documents:
 May result in the product being considered adulterated, or
unlicensed, and violate regulatory approvals
 May increase the risk to the user/ operator
 May compromise the results generated and lead to adverse
patient management
Note: Refer to Escalation Procedure in DMS DFP19.001 for Escalation

Contact Support (phone & email) details
Warnings are inserted throughout Alinity c Service Documentation to

alert Field Service Support to potential hazards.
It is important to wear gloves, lab coats, and protective eye wear

when handling human sourced material or contaminated instrument
components.
If the possibility of pressurized liquid exists, or if significant force is

needed to perform operations where liquid may be present, full-face
protection is recommended.
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > 1. Alinity c

General > Document Organization, Legal, Safety and Hazards and
the information below for safety hazard information. Also, see the
ISA database for product safety updates.
•• Biological Hazards •• Mechanical Hazards

•• Chemical Hazards •• Safety Symbols & Classification
•• Electrical Hazards •• Physical Hazards
•• Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) •• Safety Icons and Hazard Symbols
•• Hazard Signal Words •• Waste Handling and Disposal
Caution: End covers are heavy and some have sharp edges.
Course Overview Service Cadence
Service Cadence
Daily Service Cadence is integrated with course technical learning. A
brief overview of how it is integral to service and support is highlighted
in this section. Additional information is in the Appendix of this guide.
Reference: See MyGSS Service Cadence Portal; Resource

Documents and Rules for Engagement folders for additional
information and the Appendix of this training guide.
Abbott Personnel can access references to documents supporting

information related to Key Performance Indicators (KPI) in the Service
Cadence portal area of MyGSS. This area contains the following
reference documents:
•• HCP and HCI Cadence training

Managing high cost parts and high cost instrument accounts
•• ASE Proactive Customer Care
•• AST Introduction
•• Alinity Predictive Health Management (PHM) and Predictive Health

Notifications (PHN)
Service Cadence Course Overview
Predictive Health Management (PHM)

The Alinity ci-series uses PHM to monitor instrument performance
and use algorithms to generate Predictive Alert tickets when data is
identified outside specification.
Reference: Refer to MyGSS Service Tools & Links; Management;

Prognostic Health Management portal and ISA database for
additional Predictive Alert information.
Predictive Alerts:
•• Align with AlinIQ and

AlwaysOn commitment
Maximize instrument
availability
Enable economic
efficiency for Abbott
and customer
•• Help predict and prevent

instrument failures by
sending alert tickets with
probable failure events
•• Are developed from patterns

of instrument indicators
Indicators are pattern changes of instrument monitored
component voltage, current, torque, steps, speeds, etc.
•• Use data analytics to predict the potential failure
•• Have specific KM resolutions requiring little to no troubleshooting
Note: Service observations and current tools may be unable to

demonstrate the failure and appear normal.
•• Require on-site visit by certified service or level 2 support within 7

days
Note: KM articles identify skill level approved for resolution.
•• Are coded using activities performed from KM articles
Service Documents
Reference: See the Alinity c Service Documentation for this review

discussion.
•• Section 1: Alinity c General Data

Functional systems area summary
Key diagrams, M&Ds and Alignment/Adjustment procedures
tables
•• Section 2: Troubleshooting:
Diagrams, mechanism and motor listings, and LED operating
conditions.
Power Supplies
Card Cage and Miscellaneous Boards
LEDs and test points
Board information
Note: RSM, waste, and water information are found in

separate Alinity c Service Documentation and will be
covered later in relevant topics.
Activity: Service Documentation
Time: 30 minutes
Purpose: Become familiar with the information included in the Service

Documentation and Service Cadence.
Actions: Navigate to the Alinity c Service Documentation and

complete the following:
1. What is the Card cage back plane connector for the ICT Pre Amp
Board?
Answer: _________________________________________________________
2. List the Driver Box Boards.
Answer: _________________________________________________________
3. What is the M&D number and description that will tests the Optics
trigger sensor and displays the trigger sensor value.
Answer:
_________________________________________________________________
4. a). What is the R&R number for the Reagent Positioner Assembly?
Answer: _________________________________________________________
b). List the verification procedure(s) required after removing or

replacing the assembly.
Answer: ___________________________________________________________
5. Open the ISA & TSB database to answer the following questions:
a) Write the product code for the Alinity c and SCM.
Answer:
____________________________________________________________
b) The Alinity ci-series has a common ISA database file for

processing module consolidated information. True or False? (Circle
one answer option.)
c) List the current Alinity c instrument/part reliability TSBs below.
Answer:
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
d) Write the ISA name and number for the Alinity c Predictive Alerts.
Answer:
____________________________________________________________
e) Open 1 KM article for a current predictive alert and identify

basic information found in the article.
Answer:
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
6. Provide three benefits for using AbbottLink.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
7. What is the difference between an ISA and TSB?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
8. List below two compliance documentation requirements for a TSB.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
9. Refer to the Appendix in this guide to complete this statement: ASE

Proactive Care is:
a) How service performs a routine day
b) Interactive cycle of how ADD talks to customers
c) Abbott Service Excellence goals for predictive maintenance
d) Alinity Sales Executive focus model for Alinity instruments
10. Refer to the Appendix to select all tools used during ASE:
a) Receiving
____PHM Ticket
____KM
____CMSNext
____Service Manual
____GSR
b) Understanding
____PHM Ticket
____KM
____CMSNext
____Service Manual
____GSR
Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
Instrument Overview and

1 Basic Operations
Module Timing: 6 Hours
Learning Objectives
•• Identify primary functional areas, major components, and

subsystems of the Alinity c
•• Identify procedures performed during system installation and

verification of service repairs
•• Perform basic operator system maintenance, component

replacement, and system backup
•• Replace consumable system inventory
•• Perform basic run operations: control, precision, and assay

calibration
Topics
•• Instrument Overview
•• System Inventory
•• Maintenance and Diagnostic Procedures
•• Assay Processing
•• Troubleshooting Summary
•• Review
Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102 1-1
Instrument Overview and Basic Operations Instrument Overview
Instrument Overview
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section 1: Use

or function Alinity c Service Documentation > Instrument Overview
for this discussion.
Topic Reference
Functional This topic was covered in the pre-learning materials.
Areas •• System control module (SCM)
•• Reagent and sample manager (RSM)
•• Processing module (PM)
System The ci-series can be configured as follows:

Configurations •• One stand-alone chemistry system.
•• A multimodule system that can include a maximum of four chemistry
processing modules.
•• An integrated system that can include a maximum of four processing
modules in different combinations of chemistry and immunoassay
processing modules.
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Instrument Overview Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
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Instrument Statuses
Instrument status refers to the operational modes of the ci-series. The
information is displayed on the Home screen.
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section 5:

Operating Instructions > Home screen > Instrument statuses to
describe the following instrument statuses.
Status Description
Offline Indicates when the processing module is not communicating with
the system control module (SCM).
Stopped Indicates when the processing module is turned on and is
communicating with the SCM.
Initializing Indicates a temporary status that occurs when Start or Run on
the Home screen is selected
Warming Indicates when the processing module has completed
initialization but has not reached the required temperature.
Note: This status is not displayed for the RSM.

Idle Indicates when the processing module has successfully
completed initialization and is ready to accept a run request.
Running Indicates when the processing module has successfully
completed initialization and is ready to process tests.
Processing Indicates when the processing module is actively processing tests
Note: This status is not displayed for the RSM.

Pausing Indicates when the processing module is not aspirating samples
and is completing assay processing before the module status
transitions to Idle or Stopped.
Maintenance Indicates when a maintenance procedure or a diagnostic
procedure is in process on the processing module.
Instrument Overview Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
RSM Status Indicator LEDs
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section 1: Use

or Function > Status Indicators.
Three status indicators (blue, green, and amber) are located above
each reagent and sample manager (RSM) position to indicate the
status of sample processing and when racks and cartridges can be
accessed.
Status Description
Indicators off •• No rack or cartridge is inserted in the position.
Green (steady) •• The rack or cartridge is inserted but is not in process.
•• The rack or cartridge can be accessed
Amber (steady) •• The rack or cartridge is in process.
•• The rack or cartridge cannot be accessed.
Green (blinking) Processing is completed. The rack or cartridge can be accessed.
Amber (blinking): •• Unloading of a cartridge or vial rack is in process.
•• The position is reserved and is unavailable to load a rack or
cartridge can be accessed.
Note: If a test is added or a rerun is scheduled before

the rack is removed from the loading area, the status
indicator for the position changes to amber and the rack
cannot be accessed.
Amber and •• A bar code scan error or other error occurred.
green(alternating) •• The rack or cartridge can be accessed.
Blue The RSM position is designated as a priority position.
System User Access Levels
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation, Procedures

P-1001 Service Log On/Log Off Procedure.
User Access Level Description Password or PIN

Configurable ID Required to display operator ID on printouts Customer
and reports configurable
Admin Required to perform: 4-digit PIN
•• System configuration Default 8642
•• Specific diagnostic procedures

•• Approve Maintenance Log
CSC Required to perform procedures not Required access
available to the administrator: to Abbott Medical
•• Restore software Device Password
Generator (AMDPG)
•• Diagnostic procedures
FSE Required to perform procedures not Require access to
available to the administrator or CSC: Abbott Medical
•• Edit configuration settings Device Password
Generator (AMDPG)
•• Diagnostic procedures
•• Access to Task Manager
Note: Alinity c FSE log on for

instructions
Caution: User passwords are confidential. You are required to

log off as FSE at the end of service activities to prevent
compliance risks, system errors, and safety issues.
Caution: If you are logged in as FSE during an active M&D

procedure, the system will remain logged in for FSE.
Be sure to complete all active M&D procedures and
log off as FSE prior to leaving the customer lab.
•• CSC and FSE log-ons have an automatic sign-off at ~60 minutes

and will need to log on again to continue to work.
•• Passwords are the same for the instrument for a 24-hour period.
System Inventory Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
System Inventory
Required Consumables
Required consumables are replenished items needed for sample
processing.
Reference: See the Alinity ci-series Operations Manual >

Section 1: Use or function > Required consumables; Section 4:
Performance characteristics and Specifications > Specifications
and requirements > Sample specifications and requirements;
and Section 5: Operating Instructions > Reagent inventory
management. Also, see assay-specific Alinity c assay inserts.
Consumables Description
Assay Reagents •• One or more cartridges that contain all the necessary reagent
bottles for an Alinity ci-series assay.
One reagent assay kit – contains 1 reagent cartridge bottle
Two reagent assays kit – contains 2 reagent cartridge bottles
•• Cartridges contain a two-dimensional bar code which includes
the following information:
Reagent identifier
Reagent serial number
Number of tests (test size)
Expiration date
Onboard stability time
ICT Module •• Contains the sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-), and
reference electrodes.
ICT module will be discussed further in Fluidics Module
Instrument Overview and Basic Operations System Inventory
Bulk Solutions •• Liquid solutions that are provided in large quantities for use
during sample processing.
Solution Description
ICT Reference A mid-concentration standard solution that
Solution (1L bottle) is aspirated and analyzed by the ICT module
before and after each sample. The solution
provides a reference potential that is used in
result calculation.
Alkaline Wash Used by the cuvette washer to clean the
(0.5L bottle) cuvettes after sample analysis.
Acid Wash (0.5L Used by the cuvette washer to clean the

bottle) cuvettes after sample analysis. A dilution of
the Acid Wash solution is used to wash the
probes.
Onboard Solutions •• The sample wash solution area stores sample onboard wash
(Smart Wash solutions used for the Smart Wash function and maintenance
Solutions) procedures.
•• Detergents used during system operation to wash sample
probes, reagent probes, mixers, and reaction cuvettes.
May also be used during M&D procedures.
•• Onboard solutions shipped ready to use include:
0.5% Acid Wash
Detergent A
10% Detergent B
•• Contain a barcode label and tracked by the system.
The solutions are used by the Smart Wash feature that

provides an additional wash process (when needed)
for reagent probes, sample probes, and cuvettes to
reduce interference (carryover) between specific assay
combinations.
•• Operator will designate a Detergent A and Acid Wash Onboard

Solutions cartridges for use. The sample smart wash must be
placed in 10mm tubes.
The installation kit supplies the two required tubes for the
sample probe onboard solutions.
Item Description
Sample Cups Topic was covered in pre-training materials.
•• 1400μL disposable containers that hold
samples for testing.
Volume graduation marks at 125μL, 500μL,
and 1400μL eliminate the need to pipette
with precision.
Can be placed in sample tubes with
bar code labels to facilitate positive
identification.
Reference: Sample cup graphic with volume call outs

from Alinity ci-series Operation Manual > Section 4:
Performance characteristics and Specifications >
Specifications and requirements > Sample specifications
and requirements.
Maintenance •• A two bottle, barcoded cartridge used during
Solutions Daily Maintenance procedures that
contains:
•• Water Bath Additive (WBA) and
Maintenance Solutions
Large bottle is WBA and contains an
anti-microbial to prevent bacterial
contamination in the water bath.
Small bottle is empty and Operator
adds reconstituted Cleaning Solution before use.
Solution is used to clean sample, reagent and ICT probes,
mixers, and the ICT module.
Stored on board and stable for 14 days or 12 tests, whichever
occurs first.
Cartridge identified using the barcode label.
It can be removed after maintenance procedures to increase
capacity of onboard reagents in the carousel.
Reference: Refer to the Alinity ci-series Operations Manual >

Section 1: Use or function > Required consumables for important
details regarding storage and use of consumables.
Required Accessories
Required accessories are parts that are needed for sample processing
on the Alinity c. Required accessories include the following:
Item Description
Racks and Trays •• Racks: Used to transport specimens, calibrators, and controls to
the sample pipettor by the RSM
Vial rack: Bar-coded for identification with the
letter V. Holds six open vials of calibrators or
controls for immediate use. The rack cannot be
stored in the reagent carousel.
Onboard vial rack: Bar-coded for identification
with the letter “U”. Holds six vials of calibrators
or controls. The rack is stored in the reagent
carousel. The carousel position will display as
purple in the Reagents screen. Onboard racks
can be assigned by the operator.
Sample rack: Holds six primary tubes, aliquot
tubes, or sample cups. Any combination of
tubes can be used in the rack.
Sample Gauge: used to verify the amount in
an aliquot tube exceeds 8mm.
Reference: See Alinity ci-Series Operations

Manual > Section 4 Performance characteristics
and specifications > Specifications and requirements for
approved sample tube specifications and limits.
•• Trays: Used to hold multiple racks of samples, calibrators, and

controls and to hold reagent cartridges. Trays of racks and
cartridges are loaded on the reagent and sample manager.
Each tray holds a maximum of five racks or cartridges.
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual >

Section 1: Use or function > Required accessories for this
discussion.
Item Description
Reagent Cartridges •• A single use cartridge of two empty reagent bottles available for
with Empty Bottles use to fill with:
Saline
User-defined sample diluents
User-defined reagents
•• Can be labeled with a one-dimensional
(1D) reagent bar code
•• Bottles liquid maximum fill volumes:
R1, larger bottle max fill is 74mL
R2, smaller bottle max fill is 47mL
Note: The newer version of the

cartridge has clear bottles to allow
the volume to be viewed the by
operator.
Note: Overfilling bottles may cause liquid level sense

errors or damage to reagent carousel related to splashing
during carousel movement.
Inventory Management
System inventory is viewed and managed using the following screens:
•• Reagents screen: Used to view and manage cartridges and racks

that are loaded in the reagent carousel. On the Reagents screen,
the following functions are available:
View current and historical (previously loaded) reagent carousel
inventory
Search for a specific cartridge or rack
Access reagent cartridge details
Unload or disable a reagent cartridge
Print a reagent report
Reference: See the Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section

5: Operating instructions > Reagent and sample management >
Reagent carousel inventory management
Supplies screen: Used to view and manage onboard consumable

inventory. On the Supplies screen, the operator can view the following
information for the Alinity c processing module:
Percentage of bulk solutions
Replace bulk solutions
Note: The ICT Reservoir bottle must be emptied prior to adding a

new lot of ICT Reference Solution to the CABs door. After, an ICT
control run is required to check the calibration curve stability.
Instrument Overview and Basic Operations Maintenance and Diagnostic Procedures
Maintenance and Diagnostic Procedures
Note: Basic screen overview was covered in pre-training.

•• The Procedures screen displays maintenance and diagnostic
procedures that can be performed.
The Maintenance tab displays procedures for regularly
scheduled maintenance and as-needed cleaning.
The Diagnostics tab displays procedures that can be used to
help isolate and identify instrument issues.
Instrument can be configured to disable sample run if any
scheduled Maintenance is pending completion that is required.
Note: A software configuration check box is available to prevent a

run initialization when any maintenance is still pending.
Location for check box is found in: Configuration > Computer
> General Settings > System Information > Checkbox: “Disable
Sample Processing When Maintenance Overdue“Note: The
procedures access will depend on the user logon access level.
Reference: See the Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section

9: Service, maintenance, and diagnostics > Maintenance and
diagnostics and Appendix B: Accessory list numbers (c-series).
The Alinity c has three customer accessory kits:
•• Accessory kit #1 contains items used for system installation, perform

maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, and some spare
accessories for as needed component replacement.
•• Accessory kit #2 contains some items used during system

installation, maintenance and troubleshooting procedures.
•• The customer maintenance kit contains all accessories needed to

perform scheduled maintenance for 1 year.
Abbott orders and ships the initial accessory kits. Customers order
individual items after. All items and information are in the Alinity ci-
series Operations Manual Appendix for the Alinity c.
Maintenance and Diagnostic Procedures Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
Procedure Key
Provides access to the front and rear processing center covers of the
Alinity ci-series processing modules and the RSM by overriding the
interlocks for the processing module and SCM covers.
The procedure key is required to perform maintenance procedures,

diagnostic procedures, and component replacement procedures
when turned horizontally.
Procedure key location for SCM Procedure key location for Alinity c
•• Two identical keys are shipped with the instrument.

1 set for the SCM
1 set for each Processing Module
•• All Alinity procedure keys are identical.
Alerts and Notifications
Reference: See the Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section 1:

Use or function >Alinity systems software overview and Section 10:
Alert Center flyout.
The Alert Center is located at the top of the Menu bar and indicates
when alerts (red triangle) and notifications (orange circle) occur
on the system and provides access to details about alerts and
notifications.
The Alert Center flyout, provides the:
•• Last 25 alert and notification messages generated
•• Probable cause and corrective actions
All Alerts and Notification messages can be deleted. The System

Logs of all Alerts and Notifications can be filtered to identify more
information to assist with identifying cause of the message.
The Plus “+” button associated with a message code indicates that a
related message codes with additional details are available. Tap the
Plus “+” button to expand and view all additional related messages to
assist with gathering troubleshooting information.
Message codes are divided into 10 sections that reflect the major
categories in which errors may occur.
Backup
System Backup is a recommended maintenance procedure for the

Alinity c. System backups provide a means to protect against data loss
in the event of a hard disk failure or software database error. System
backups can be configured and scheduled to occur automatically.
Note: Automatic backup is a customer configurable option.

System Backup will create a backup of the following three files:
•• Module Calibrations - system calibration files, robo.cal, and ish.cal
files
•• System Configurations - default host and system parameters
•• Module Database - system database file, M&D procedures, assay
files and calibrations, results, module and SCC configuration
Two backup types are available on the Backup/Restore screen:

•• Automatic
•• Manual
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual, Section 2:

Installation Procedures and special requirements.
The following are key points related to the System Backup:
•• Backups are saved to the hard drive and scheduled to save to an

external USB flash drive.
The last three manual backups are saved on the hard drive.
•• Seven daily automatic backups and four weekly automatic

backups are saved to the hard drive.
•• Automatic system backups can be scheduled in the System screen.

A USB flash drive MUST remain inserted in the UIC to perform this
feature. Defaults:
Daily backup default time is 1:00 a.m.
Weekly backup default is Sunday
Activity: Backup and Scheduled Maintenance Activity
Time: 60 minutes Purpose: To familiarize you with customer-scheduled maintenance and

manual instrument backup
Reference: Refer to Alinity ci-series Operation Manual Operations

Manual Section 2: System Configuration, Installation Procedures
and special requirements or Alinity ci-series SCM Service
Documentation Section 5 Procedures P-1013 SCM Hard Drive
Recovery Options.
Actions: You will perform the following procedures using on-screen

instructions:
1. Perform P-1013 SCM Hard Drive Recovery Options - Manual System

Backup option only.
2. Check and update all solutions.

a. Replace Sample Probe SmartWash solutions.
b. Replace any empty bulk solutions.
c. Review Weekly, Monthly, Quarterly, and Scheduled
Maintenance procedures.
3. Perform M&D 5501 Daily Maintenance.
4. Review System Configuration and answer the following questions:
a) Navigate to the Computer tab:
Write the name of the configuration file to edit and allow

sample processing when daily maintenance is pending or
overdue.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
List the options available for the Distance Alert.
____________________________________________________________
b) Navigate to the General tab then Printer:
Write the required information needed to edit a printer.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
c) Select the options on the Reagents and Supplies screen that an

Admin user is permitted to edit.
i. Configure low alert settings for bulk solutions.
ii. Configure low alert settings for onboard diluents.
iii. Configure the module to use Detergent B.
iv. Configure use of reagents and supplies beyond the stability
expiration and the supply lot expiration.
d) System installation requires scanning the instrument serial number

barcode into configuration.
True / False (Circle one)
Discussion: Backup and maintenance procedures are required part

of customer procedures to ensure system health and Abbott goal
support.
Instrument Overview and Basic Operations Assay Processing
Assay Processing
Detection Technologies
Photometric Technology
Photometric technology is used to determine analyte concentration

by passing a beam of light through a sample and measuring the
amount of light that the sample absorbs. The absorbance of the
solution changes as reagents are added and the reaction progresses.
Measurements occur either when all the reactant is depleted and the
reaction is stable (end-point assays), or when the reactant reaches a
stable rate (rate assays).
Potentiometric Technology
Potentiometric technology is used to measure the electrical potential

in a sample as an indication of electrolyte concentration.
The Alinity c uses the Integrated Chip Technology (ICT) module

to simultaneously measure sodium, potassium, and chloride
concentration. The ICT module uses solid-state, ion-selective
electrodes that are contained in one chip.

Principles of operation > Principles of operation (c-series) for a
description of detection methods.
Assay Processing Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
Assay Processing Sequence
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > System

Overview.
The reaction carousel contains 187 cuvettes in a water bath that is

maintained at 37°C.
During a run, the carousel rotates counterclockwise approximately

1/4 turn or 47 cuvette positions turn every 4.0 seconds (lock step) to
position the cuvettes for:
•• Sample and reagent aspiration
•• Mixing
•• Photometry and ICT Analysis
•• Cuvette Washing
Position(s) Description
1 The sample pipettor dispenses sample into the cuvette at the
starting position.
2 •• The reaction carousel rotates counterclockwise approximately
¼ turn (47 cuvette positions). The cuvette containing sample is
now at the first reagent dispense position.
•• Reagent pipettor 1 dispenses reagent 1 in the cuvette.
3 The reaction carousel rotates one cycle (¼ turn) to the first mixing
position where the mixer unit (mixer 1) mixes the sample and
reagent 1.
4 The reaction carousel rotates one cycle to this position at which no
activity takes place.
5 •• The reaction carousel has completed 4 cycles.
Each cycle rotates the reaction carousel 47 cuvette positions
(¼ turn). There are 187 cuvettes in the reaction carousel. After
4 cycles the cuvette is now one position beyond the original
starting position (4x47=188).
6–153 •• The reaction carousel continues to rotate and the reaction
mixture incubates.
The photometer takes absorbance readings every time the
cuvette passes the photometric position.
The optics take absorbance readings every time the cuvette
passes the light path for a total of 38 read times.
154–182 •• The cuvette washer removes the reaction mixture to waste
and cleans the cuvette with Alkaline Wash, Acid Wash, and DI
water.
•• Then the cuvette washer dispenses DI water into the cuvette for
a water blank measurement to ensure cuvette integrity.
•• Finally, the cuvette washer aspirates the water and dries the
cuvette.
183–188 The clean cuvette waits for new sample dispense.
Some assay protocols may also use the following locations.
Position(s) Description
5 If onboard dilution is required, the sample pipettor aspirates the
diluted sample and dispenses the sample into the new cuvette that
is currently at position 1.
40 For an ICT sample, the ICT probe aspirates the diluted sample into
the ICT unit.
75 If the reaction requires a second reagent, reagent pipettor 2
dispenses reagent 2 into the cuvette.
76 The mixer 2 mixes the second reagent with the sample and reagent
mixture.
Assay File Installation and Configuration

The operator can install new or revised assay files from the Configure
screen, Assay tab.
The Assay tab also provides for assay configuration tasks, such as:
•• Configure assay parameters
•• Configure assay panels
•• Configure a calibrator set
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section

2: Installation procedures and special requirements > System
configuration > Configuration screen, Assay tab to review settings
that the operator can configure.
Automated Ordering
Operating instructions > Specimen, calibration, and control orders
to review settings for additional information and restrictions.
Automated ordering is the process the system uses to order sample,

calibration, and control tests automatically. Automated orders may be
created when:
•• A calibrator or control sample bar

code label from an onboard vial
rack, a vial rack, or a sample rack is
scanned.
•• The system software periodically

evaluates the calibrator or control
vials that are stored in onboard vial
racks in the reagent carousel.
•• The configured time interval or test interval is exceeded.
To use the automated ordering feature for calibrators and controls,

additional parameters and actions are necessary by the operator.
Refer to the operations manual.
Assay Calibration
Calibration is the process used to analyze calibrators of a known
concentration, to record system response values, and to plot
measured values against the known concentration.
•• Before performing sample processing, calibrate all assays.
•• Assay calibrations require assay-specific calibrators for analysis.
•• Acceptable calibration curves are valid when a QC analysis is run
and data are within specifications.
Note: When samples are ordered the system software calculates

the minimum sample cup volume required for testing.
 Only a printed Orderlist provides the required testing volume for
each sample dilutions and replicates for a specific assay during the
ordering process.

Calibration procedures > Calibration guidelines.
Assay calibration frequency options:
•• Mandatory or optional
•• Reasons for a mandatory calibration include:

A new reagent lot number
Expired calibration
Documentation accompanying a new version of an existing
assay file states calibration is required
A new assay file that requires calibration is installed
The Alinity c is installed (no calibration data exists)
The Alinity c hard drive is replaced and files were not backed up
Note: Refer to service procedures for additional information.
Calibration Data
The Alinity c measures sample photometrically and potentiometric to

report results. Assay calibrations are stored by the system and have
one of the following statuses:
•• Active – values are within specifications and the system software

will calculate patient and QC results from this curve
1 calibration curve is stored per lot number
4 different reagent calibration curve lot numbers are stored at
one time before overwriting information of the oldest stored
curve
•• Inactive: previously active curve
•• Failed: values fall outside specification
Reference: See the Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Section 6:

Calibration procedures > Calibration guidelines.
Assay Quality Control

Assay Quality Control (QC) is the process of monitoring control activity
using control reports and Levey-Jennings graphs.
Control orders may be single or multi-constituent
•• Controls may be Abbott or non-Abbott
Accuracy is defined as how close a result is to the target or expected

result. Laboratories use QC to evaluate accuracy and acceptability of
sample results.
Note: When samples are ordered, the system software calculates

the minimum sample cup volume required for testing.
 Only an Orderlist provides the required testing volume for each
sample dilutions and replicates for a specific assay during the
ordering process.
QC Summary Screen:
•• Used to evaluate statistics on configured controls
•• Select a column header to organize the displayed QC data
•• Data may be printed or displayed as a Levey-Jennings graph
Levey-Jennings Graph:
•• A trend plot of data for a selected control
•• Displays plotted data within a range of ±3 SD from the specific

configured assay mean
•• Should be monitored for shifts, trends, accuracy, precision, and

other quality performance indicators
Reference: For related procedures, see Alinity ci-series Operations

Manual > Section 5: Operating instructions > Specimen,
calibration, and control orders > Orders screen > Create Order
screen > Create a control order and Section 5: Operating
Instructions > Quality Control (QC) analysis
Assay Precision
Precision indicates the reproducibility or how well an assay or a system
provides the same result when a given sample is tested repeatedly
over time.
Service uses two precision methods for different evaluations.
•• Performance Verification Test (PVT): an installation only verification

check to the factory
•• Total Precision: package insert supported claim to verify system

and assay performance snapshot
A more realistic assessment of the performance should ideally
incorporate performance over time.
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Appendix A:

Verification of assay claims > Precision for procedures to evaluate
precision.
Reference: See ISA 210-001/current revision Alinity c Installation

Procedure, Operation Qualification - Performance Verification
Testing (PVT).
Assay Processing Activities
Activity: Basic Run Tasks and Assay Calibration Order
Time: 60 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with assay installation, configuration, and

calibration as part of system installation.
Service Tips:
•• The installation PVT is a factory retest of the Alinity c module, and all
new systems are required to pass the PVT acceptance criteria.
•• Daily Maintenance procedure initializes the DAQ Board during

system installation and DAQ Board replacement.
•• Remove any sample and control foam and bubbles to prevent LLS,
pressure errors, and exceptions.
•• Use sample cup approximate volume lines to eliminate the need

for precision pipetting and calibrated tools.
•• Ensure samples, controls, calibrators, and reagents have sufficient

volume to perform requested orders, prevent exceptions, and
provide service efficiency.
•• Place the processing module and RSM into Running status prior to
ordering samples to improve efficiency.
•• Calibrations must be reordered when errors send them to

exceptions.
•• The Results screen column headers can be selected to sort and find
data alphanumerically for viewing and printing.
Actions: Perform the following steps to install and configure assays.
•• Perform the following actions per ISA 210-001/ current revision

Alinity c Installation Procedure, Operation Qualification -
Performance Verification Testing (PVT) for the steps listed in this
activity actions. (Perform only the steps listed.)
Note: Some actions may not be required for this training activity
and will ONLY be reviewed in class.
Note: Refer to the Appendix of this training guide for the Basic
Operations Flowchart, as needed.
Review the steps for loading assay files, then load one assay file
different than PVT assays.
Note: The assay file loaded is used ONLY in the next configuration
keyboard practice activity.
Prepare solution.

Load solutions.
Load reagent supply center solutions as needed.
Update system supply status.
Load reagents as needed.
Review steps to configure calibrators.
Create a calibration order.
Note: Rack and ID are unnecessary when using barcoded
calibrators. However, selecting the Assay and Calibrator Lot are
required.
Load the calibrators into the rack.

Start the calibration.
Verify calibration.
Note: Do NOT create PVT panels for assays noted in step “Create a
Patient Order by manual entry or creating a panel and Load Level
II Controls” as this action will be performed on Day 4.
Reference: Refer to assay parameters in the configuration for assay

system parameters.
Discussion: Assay installation and calibration will be required as part of

installation operation verification and may be required during a service
call. You need to be comfortable with performing these operation
procedures.
Activity: QC Analysis
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with ordering QC and calibrations required

at a customer site to complete verification testing after instrument
repairs.

Operating Instructions > Patient and Control Orders for the actions
that follow.
Actions: Order, run, and evaluate QC.
From the Home screen:

Select Orders.
Select Create Order.
Note: Rack and ID are unnecessary when using barcoded
calibrators. However, selecting the Assay, Control Name, Lot, and
Level are required.
Select Control Tab.

Enter in Rack and Position.
Select AST, AlkP, TP, Na-C, K-C and Cl-C.
Select Control Name, Lot and Level.
Select Add Order.
On Order Status Screen, Select Print > Report Type Orderlist, to view
minimum sample volumes.
Load racks in RSM and transition instrument to Running status.
Verify QC result accuracy on the Result screen and Release all
results.
Activity: Precision Run
Time: 20 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with precision run and QC configuration

procedure to perform an assay precision run for troubleshooting assay
imprecision issue.
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual > Appendix A:

Verification of assay claims > Precision for procedures to evaluate
precision.
Actions: Practice control configuration and perform an assay precision

run.
Configure Controls
1. At the Home screen, tap System > Configuration > Assay > Quality
Control > New control.
2. Select the assay installed previously.

Note: The assay will only be used to practice a keyboard
configuration activity.
3. Tap Create.
4. Type the following information for the New Control: Control

Name: Create a control name (i.e. “FSPrec 1” or “FSPrecAssay-
Hi”)
Level Name: Level 1
Lot Number: seen on the control
Expiration Date: Enter +1 year from current date
Expected Mean: 5000
Expected SD: 5000
5. Tap Save and then Done.
6. Delete the control and assay files configured above.
Precision Run
1. Order and run 10 replicates of TP or K using control level 2.

Note: Order and run precision using a configured TP and K control
for level 2.
2. Record the %CV results for TP and K below and answer the question
below.
%CV: _____________________________________________________
a. Did the results meet the Total %CV in the assay insert? Yes / No
(Circle one)
b. If no, then list two possible causes impacting the results.
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
Discussion: Where is the acceptable %CV for an assay located?
Troubleshooting Summary Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
Troubleshooting Summary
Area of Failure Common Related Errors Related Procedures/References
Control Issues, •• Incorrect control/sample •• Precision run
Control Values utilized Refer to Operations
Out of Range •• Calibration instability Manual, Appendix A
(OOR) Verification of assay
•• Probe or mixer misalignment or
malfunction claims and assay inserts
for support-related
•• Dirty or scratched cuvettes recommendations.
•• Reagent and/or control •• Proper use of reagent,
improperly handled or stored consumable, accessory, and
•• Non-performance of required samples
instrument maintenance Review good lab practices
Calibration Issues •• Operator error in the Operations Manual
Bubbles or foam and assay inserts.
Improper reagent and/or •• Review control, calibration,
calibrator handling and assay parameters to
insert values and claims.
Improper loading of
calibrator Comparison of data from
previous dates when
•• Nonperformance of required assay performed within
instrument maintenance specifications
•• Probe or mixer misalignment or Instrument maintenance
malfunction and message history logs
•• Dirty or scratched cuvettes ISA and KM control and
•• Fluidics or optics failure assay troubleshooting
Exceptions •• Improper sample handling
Bubbles or foam
Poor sample integrity (fibrin)
Improper sample collection
and/or storage
•• Bulk solutions loaded
incorrectly
•• Non-performance of required
instrument maintenance
•• Insufficient reagents
•• Calibrator expired
•• Hardware failure
Instrument Overview and Basic Operations Review
Review
Time: 20 minutes 1) Use the instrument or Alinity c service documentation > 1 General
Data > Alinity c System Overview > Hardware Top View Diagram to
complete the table below.
Component Description Component Description Component Description

1 7 13
2 8 14
3 9 15
4 10 16
5 11 17
6 12 18
Review Instrument Overview and Basic Operations
2) What four Operator tasks require the system to be in Idle status?
3) Where is the TSB sticker located on the Alinity c and SCM?
4) Identify where to find the minimum sample volume required for

testing.
5) Add the sample cup volumes on the 3 lines indicated in the

graphic.
Power Distribution
2 Power Distribution
Learning Objectives
•• Identify the physical location and function of power distribution

subsystems and components
•• Perform key verification procedures and removal and replacement

procedures associated with power distribution systems
•• Use service tools and diagnostic tools to interpret data and isolate
root causes of power supply and power distribution failures
Topics
•• Power Distribution Overview
•• Processing Module Power Components
•• Review
Power Distribution Power Distribution Overview
Power Distribution Overview

The main power supplies (PS) for the SCM and Processing Module are
used to generate and distribute the AC and DC voltages within their
respective module.
Power Requirements
Note: The standard order matrix for the Alinity ci-series excludes a
UPS. Specifications for a UPS are in the ISA for system specifications.
Reference: See ISA-214-001C Alinity ci-series Pre-Site for class

discussion.
The following items are in the pre-site power specifications:
•• Electrical connection requirements
•• Electrical receptacle location requirements
SCM Power Supply Components
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > General

Overview and Pre-Site Specifications or ISA 214-001 Alinity ci-
series Pre-site Interview and Inspection.
Power Distribution Overview Power Distribution
Component Function
SCM Main •• Located at the rear of the SCM
Power Supply •• Provides power to both the SCM and the RSM components
•• Self-contained, auto-selecting power supply for frequency and
voltage requirements
Input voltage range: 90-264VAC
Input frequency range: 47–63Hz
•• Provides 12VDC, 24VDC, 42VDC output
Fuses are replaceable and have various ratings indicated on the
fuse and by the tip color
Fuse indicator wire will pop out to identify an over current condition
Note: Only the SCM UIC receives AC voltage

•• Main power switch acts as a breaker
•• Diagnostic status LEDs
SCM Power •• Power switches on the SCM include:
Switches Main power supply switch (back)
SCM front power switch (front)
12amp circuit breaker (located on top of main power supply)
Note: The 12amp circuit breaker switch is easily turned OFF when
routing or checking SCM internal cable.
•• The front power switch reboots the RSM and SCM components while
leaving the UIC and Ethernet Switch ON.
•• When the switch is turned OFF, power is removed from the following
components:
RSM Transport and barcode reader
SCM computer
SCM control board
Processing Module light board
Power Distribution Power Distribution Overview
Component Function
Cooling Fans •• Power Supply contains Service Due LED (DS5)
Steady ON – Fan Good
Blinking – Replacement required
OFF – Fan failure
•• Requires periodic replacement based on internal diagnostic
maintenance timer
Time interval set to allow scheduled service replacement prior to
failure
Timer manually reset when components are replaced
connector
Note: The fan counter reset switch is located on the edge of the
fuse board inside the power supply.
Processing Module Power Components Power Distribution
Processing Module Power Components

Overview KM and Pre-Site Specifications.
Topic Reference
c-series Main •• Generates and distributes the AC and DC voltages for the Alinity
Power Supply c processing module.
•• Receives the incoming 200–220VAC line voltage and routes it to
the primary side of Power Transformer and Power Supply 7 (PS7).
Note: The transformer voltage selection terminal block

is factory set for 220VAC. The selection will need to be
changed If incoming voltage is different.
•• Components:
Six internal DC power supplies and power distribution side
panel
LEDs for each DC power voltage (illuminated indicates ON)
Potentiometers for adjusting DC power
Power Distribution Processing Module Power Components
Topic Reference
c-series Main Power
Power Supply Voltage and Function Adjustable
Supply
(continued)
PS1 •• +5VDC Card Cage Backplane/CPU Yes
Bd/Logic
•• +3.3VDC Card Cage Backplane/CPU
Bd/CMOS
•• ±12VDC Pressure Sensor
PS2 +15VDC (1.5A) Analog Power Supply Yes
(DAQ)
PS3 +12VDC (8A) Magnetic Valve Drive Yes
Power Supply
PS4 +11.5VDC (2A) Lamp Power Supply Yes
(Adjusted to +11.45VDC at lamp)
PS5 •• +12VDC (38A) Peltiers or Yes
thermoelectric devices (TEDs) in
Reagent Cooler
•• +12VDC for Reagent Cooler
Circulation Pump
Note: ON/OFF controlled by

Peltier Controller Board
Note: The LED for PS5 is only

illuminated when power is
needed to cool the Reagent
Supply Center.
PS6 +24VDC (32A) SMD-Q1 Stepper Motor Yes
Drive
Topic Reference
Reagent Power Power
Supplies Voltage and Function Adjustable
Supply
PS7 •• Receives 200VAC from the c-series Yes
main power supply
•• Generates 60VDC for the Servo
Motor Drive (drives the Reagent
Carousel).
PS8 •• Receives 100VAC from the c-series Yes
main power supply
•• Generates 12VDC for the
thermoelectric devices (TED).
PS7 and PS8 Seen Behind the Card Cage
Main Power Supply Side Distribution Panel
Connector Name Output / Function
Auto Contactor drive for power on-off

ACD 100 VAC to SIO Driver
2P 200 VAC to PS7
uSD +24 VDC to SMD
AC 100 VAC to TBC and PS8
RSH +24 VDC for RSM
+24V +24 VDC to Degasser
12V (all) +12 VDC to PCBs
UC +12 VDC to Cooler Controller PCB
MC1 No Connection
AUX No Connection
STRD + 15 VDC to Mixer Driver Board
TBC +5 VDC & +24 VDC to TBC
CPU +15 VDC, -15 VDC, +12 VDC, -12 VDC, +5 VDC & 3.3 VDC to CPU
Transformer 100 VAC from Transformer
E. stop Emergency Stop
CPUM +24 VDC, +12 VDC & 11.45 VDC to CPU
SIO +12 VDC & +24 VDC to SIO Driver
CNBD +12 VDC & +5 VDC to CNN Board
Lamp +11.45 VDC to Lamp
Topic Reference
Transformer •• Transformer is changed to allow selection of the corresponding
incoming voltage: 200VAC, 220VAC, 230VAC and 240VAC
•• Provides 100VAC to the:
6 internal Power Supplies
SIO Driver Board for the Vacuum Pump
Thermal Bath Controller (TBC) Board for the water bath heater
•• Voltage selection terminal block is factory set to 220VAC and
may require a different setting if incoming voltage is outside the
range of 210VAC and 225VAC.
Note: The transformer voltage selector may be difficult to

change the wire location.
Processing •• The front switch removes all power from the c-series Processing
Module Power Module, except for the 12VDC used to cool the Reagent Supply
Switches Center and reagent access cover heaters.
Note: PS5 LED may or may not be illuminated depending

on need to actively cool the thermoelectric device (TED).
•• The main power supply switch acts as a protective breaker.

CNN Board •• Has two DC-DC converters that generate the following voltages:
+5VDC: Voltage supply of photo sensors and Servo Motor Driver
±15VDC: Voltage supply of LLS PCB
•• Contains two thermal, “automatic” resetting fuses near CN19 for
the protection of the PM sensors
Reference: See the Alinity c Service Documentation, power supply

schematic.
Instrument Power ON/OFF Sequence

The Alinity ci-series requires a specific sequence to cycle power to
minimize errors. It is important to allow the module to completely
power down at least one minute before powering on to ensure
function is restored.
Reference: Alinity c Service Documentation > Section 5: Operating

Procedures > P4006 Startup and Shutdown
Required instrument status

•• Processing Module (PM): Offline, Stopped, Warming, or Idle
•• Reagent and Sample Manager (RSM): Offline, Stopped, or Idle
PM ONLY SCM ONLY PM & SCM UIC, SCM & PM

A. To power ON only 1. Turn OFF front SCM A. To turn OFF power: A. To turn OFF power:
the PM: Convenience Power 1. At the Home 1. At the Home
1. Turn ON back SCM Switch and front and Screen, tap Screen, tap
Main breaker. back PM switches. Shutdown. Shutdown.
**Note: Error
code #8035
Note: UIC and
PM will remain
2. Turn OFF front SCM
Convenience Power
2. Turn OFF front SCM
Convenience Power
related to ON. Switch. Switch.
5V power
3. Turn OFF front PM 3. Turn OFF front PM

supply error
is displayed **Note: Power Switch. Power Switch.
and recorded Error codes
in message
history.
displayed and
recorded in
history:
**Note: PM
reagent cooling
**Note: PM
reagent cooling
system will be system will be
2. Turn ON back SCM OFF. OFF.
#8035 related to 5V
Main breaker.* power for the supply
error 4. Power OFF the back 4. Power OFF the
▬▬▬▬▬▬ SCM & PM Power back SCM & PM
#5119 (RSH Module
B. To Power OFF only Load Control 15V Switches. power switches.
the PM and leave and 5V Power
reagent cooling Good) sensor failed ▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬
system ON: 2. Turn ON front SCM B. To power ON after B. To power ON after
1. Turn OFF front PM Convenience Power 10 seconds: 10 seconds:
Power Switch. Switch. 1. Turn ON back SCM 1. Turn ON back SCM
**Note:
Error codes
3. Turn ON back and
then front PM power
Switch.
2. Power ON UIC.
switch.
2. Power ON UIC.
displayed and switches.
recorded in 3. Log in to view 3. Log in to view
history: module status. module status.
#8035 related to 5V 4. Power ON back PM 4. Power ON back PM
power for the supply switch. switch.
error
5. Power ON front 5. Power ON front
#5119 RSH Module
SCM switch when PM SCM switch when PM
Load Control 15V
and 5V Power Good status is stopped. status is Stopped.
but the sensor failed. 6. Turn ON front PM 6. Turn ON front PM
2. Turn ON front PM Power Switch. Power Switch.
Power Switch.*
▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬
C. Perform START C. Perform START
when all modules are when all modules are
in Stopped status. in Stopped status.
*Note: Ensure module status Is offline and remains off at least 1 minute prior to
turning them back ON to prevent errors.
**Note: Error codes will be displayed and recorded in message log.
Power System Diagnostics
Service Tips
•• When cycling PS, wait until all PS LEDs are OFF plus a count to ten
before powering ON the main breaker to prevent errors.
•• SCM Control board monitors voltage signals for power quality and if
an error condition is detected will disable distribution.
•• SCM and processing module PS Fan Service Due LED provides

status for periodic service replacement:
Steady ON – Fan Good
Blinking – Replacement required within 30 days
OFF – Fan failure
•• Use the Alinity c PS LEDs to identify voltage insufficiencies

If an LED is ON, measure voltage outputs to ensure they meet
specifications to support functions.
•• RSM Servo motor contains feedback chips and can be damaged if

assembly is moved manually with power on.
Note: Turn off the system power to move any motor assembly to
prevent damage to the motor and assemblies with belts.
Additional key principles related to cycling power:
•• When the front Power Switch is OFF on the processing module, the
following will remain ON:
Reagent carousel cooler
Reagent container access covers
Located at the transfer door and LLS access areas
Reagent positioner door present sensor
Power ON the following in the order listed to avoid errors when the
main SCM Power supply is switched to OFF
1) SCM back switch
2) UIC
3) SCM front switch (wait for Home Screen to display before
powering ON)
4) PM (wait for Home Screen to display before powering
ON)
PM front switch can be left ON so when the back switch is powered

ON the PM will come on line faster.
Power Distribution Activities
Activity: Power Distribution Instructor-led
Time: 30 minutes
Purpose: To perform service procedures related to power distribution.
Service Tip:
Changing the voltage selection is challenging and requires pliers to

remove and reinstall wires from the voltage selection terminal.
Actions: Verify and change the power supply transformer voltage

selection as directed by your instructor.
Reference: Refer to the AC Voltage Check/Change procedure

located in ISA 210-001 (current revision) Alinity c Installation
Procedure.
1. Power OFF instrument.
2. Perform R&R C2.01 Reagent Cooler.
Caution: When removing the Reagent Cooler, be careful handling

the fitting housing temperature sensor and cable to prevent
damage and coolant leaks.
3. Loosen (do not remove) the 2 screws bracket to connector panel.
4. Remove cables from the clamp.
5. Remove the thermistor heater bracket, pull forward, and set aside.
6. Loosen the 2 screws (do not remove them) holding the Voltage
Selection Terminal Housing and pull it forward to observe the
corresponding AC Voltage selection.
7. Measure incoming voltage at UPS. Proceed to next step if required.
8. Press down on the locking tab to release Voltage Terminal wire.
9. Insert the Voltage Selection Terminal into the closest corresponding

voltage on the terminal block.
10. Return the Voltage Selection Terminal Housing to its original

location and tighten the screws.
11. Reinstall the Thermistor Heater Bracket and the Cooling Unit.
Activity: Main Power Supply Diagnostic Procedures
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with diagnostic procedures related to

power supplies and power distribution.
Service Tips:
•• Use plastic tools to adjust the PS potentiometers and to prevent

damage.
•• To prevent a short and system reboot, avoid contact with the multi-
meter probes and probes touching the card cage frame.
Actions: Perform only three voltage measurement procedures from the

list below as directed by your instructor.
M&D 4803 Voltage Test
P-4022 +3.3VDC (PS1) Power Supply Measurement
P-4021 +12VDC and -12VDC (PS1) Power Supply Measurement
P-4024 DAQ ±15VDC (PS2) Power Supply Measurement
P-4025 +12VDC (PS3) Power Supply Measurement
P-4026 +11.45 VDC, (PS4) Lamp Power Supply Measurement
P-4030 +12VDC (PS8) Measurement
Activity: Global Service Reports (GSR) Activity
Abbott: This tools activity is for Abbott personnel only.

Time: 30 minutes
Purpose: Allow you to identify common service requests, top replaced

part, and top high cost replaced parts.
Actions: Open the GSR database from the MyGSS AST Tool Table,
access the GSR reports, and complete each activity below.
1) Locate the FASTR (Failure Analysis Statistical Tactical Resolution)

report, select the following options to filter the data, and record the
top 10 reasons for a service request.
Top Menu Options Left Side Menu Options

•• Instrument: Alinity c •• Experience Codes Scope:
•• Date Range for Closed 4-character code
Tickets: recent 6 months •• Resolution Type: Field Service
Visit
•• Top Codes: 20
2) Select SUBMIT from the top left to filter data.
3) Write the first 10 experience codes in the space provided below.
1) 6)
2) 7)
3) 8)
4) 9)
5) 10)
4) Locate the Parts Viewer report, select the following options to filter
the data, and record the top 10 parts replaced on the Alinity c
instrument.
Top Menu Options Left Side Menu Options

•• Instrument: Alinity c •• Views: Parts Advanced
•• Date Range for Closed •• Filters:
Tickets: recent 6 months Ticket Type: Complaint &
Service Demand
Action Taken: N110 (Replaced)
and N120 (Replaced First Use
Failure)
Limit to Likely Cause
•• Parts Ticket Category: Repair FSV
•• Options: Choose top 20 parts
•• Sort by: Quantity
5) Select SUBMIT.
6) Write the top 10 replaced parts in the space provided below.

1) 6)
2) 7)
3) 8)
4) 9)
5) 10)
7) Choose the best AST tool (choose one) to use to review the
overall instrument and account health Real Time for ASE Proactive
Customer Care. Be prepared to explain your selection.
a) AbbottLink
b) ONeview
c) LOG-ICAL
d) HCI GSR report
Troubleshooting Summary Power Distribution
Component Common Related Errors Diagnostic Procedures
•• PM Main Power Supply •• Processing Module •• Verify incoming power

•• SCM Main Power Supply and/or SCM will not meets specification
power up •• Reseat power cord
•• PM and or SCM remains •• Check power supply
in OFFLINE status voltage indicator LEDs
•• No motor holding •• Verify selected transformer
current voltage matches incoming
power
•• Perform applicable
procedure to verify voltage
of processing module’s
internal power supplies
Power Distribution Review
Review
Time: 5 minutes
1) What voltage is supplied to the optics lamp, and which internal

power supply provides the voltage?
2) List the components that remain ON when the processing module’s

back power switch is ON and the front power switch is OFF.
Electronic Circuitry
3 Electronic Circuitry
Learning Objectives
•• Identify the physical location and function of components related

to electronic circuitry
•• Perform key verification procedures and removal and replacement

procedures associated with electronic circuitry
root causes of electronic circuitry failures
Topics
•• Electronic Circuitry Overview
•• SCM and RSM Electronic Circuitry Components
•• Alinity c Processing Module Circuitry and Components
•• Review
Electronic Circuitry Electronic Circuitry Overview
Electronic Circuitry Overview

Control, drive circuitry, and communication on the Alinity c includes:
•• Printed circuit boards

•• User Interface Computer (UIC)
•• SCM Embedded Computer
•• Ethernet Switches A and B
SCM and RSM Electronic Circuitry Components Electronic Circuitry
SCM and RSM Electronic Circuitry

Components
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > Troubleshooting

Diagnostics > Electrical for class discussion.
Reference: See Alinity i SCM Service Documentation>Alinity ci-

series SCM Functional Description.
Component Function
SCM Control Board •• Located in the upper rear section of the SCM
•• Functions include:
Interfaces with the RSM transport motor X, Theta and Z drive
Connects up to four Load/Unload boards
Connections of modules 2-4 can be connected to any of

the SCM Controller board five connectors (J10, J11, J14, J15
and J19). Proper communication to Load/Unload board is
set via rotary switch on the Load/Unload board.
Uses the Load/Unload board to communicate to the sample

positioner
Lid safety interlock monitoring
X servo drive power relay
Power quality monitoring
Service bypass for RSM interlock
SCM Embedded •• Located in the Rear of the SCM below Ethernet Switch B
Computer •• Acts as the RSM CPU and interfaces to the UIC via an Ethernet
switch
•• Receives 12VDC voltage from the SCM main power supply
•• Firmware updates occur during system software installation
automatically
Ethernet Switches •• Handles all network communication between the UIC and the
connected modules
•• Two network switches located inside the SCM:
Ethernet Switch A - Located just above the SCM power
supply. Directs network communication from the UIC to the
processing module and transport.
Ethernet Switch B - Located at the top back portion of the
SCM. Directs network communication from the UIC to the
SCM controller and RSM boards.
Electronic Circuitry SCM and RSM Electronic Circuitry Components
Component Function
User Interface •• Located in the SCM
Computer (UIC) •• Receives 120-220VAC from the SCM main power supply
•• Provides a common user interface for the:
Processing module
RSM
SCM
•• Contains the Windows Operating software (OS) and Alinity
ci-series Software
•• Utilized for remote diagnostics capabilities and SCM boot-up
observation
•• System backup can be auto-programmed to capture the
following files:
Module calibrations: System calibration files, robo.cal, and ish.
cal files
System configurations: default host and system parameters
Module database: System database file, M&D procedures,
assay files and calibrations, results, and module and SCM
configuration
RSM Boards
Component Function
1. RSM Load/ •• Located at the left end of each RSM module section
Unload Control •• Provides power and detects
Board status of RSM 10 and 15 Slot
Sensor Boards through a single
connector
•• Powered by the processing
module
•• Receives 24 VDC from the
processing module power supply
•• Monitors the processing module
front lid sensor status for control of
the RSM Transport
•• Detects the Priority Switch and indication of the slot in the load
area to be treated as priority
•• Requires switch setting for module identification during
installation
RSM 2-Axis Driver •• Located at the left end of each RSM load area and attaches
Board directly to the Load/Unload Control board
Note: Directly •• Used to isolate the sample positioner motor drivers from the rest
attached to board of the controls and indicators
#1 in diagram. •• Takes motor commands from the Load Control board and
converts them to high power motor drives for the two sample
positioner motors
•• Board contains LEDs and switches for diagnostics
2. RSM 10- and •• Located above the sample rack and reagent cartridge slots on
15-Slot Indicator the loading area
Boards •• Driven by the RSM Load/Unload Control board based on RSM
sensor board input of cartridge and sample rack detection
•• Slots 1-10 use the 10-slot indicator board
•• Slots 11-25 use the 15-slot indicator board
All slots can be configured for routine or priority. Default

for priority is slots 1-5, but this can be changed in the
configuration settings.
•• Board contains LEDs for diagnostics

3. RSM 10- and •• Located under the loading area
15-Slot Sensor •• Includes two sensors:
Boards
Optical sensor racks and reagent cartridges detection
Magnetic sensor for detection of bay trays
•• Positions 1-10 use the 10-slot sensor board
•• Positions 11-25 use the 15-slot sensor board
SCM Activity
Activity: Software Installation
Time: 1.75 hours
Purpose: To familiarize you with installing instrument software
Actions: This is an instructor-led group activity. Your instructor will guide

you as you locate the latest software TSB and perform one of the
following options:
•• Option 1: New Alinity ci-series System Software Installation

Perform this option ONLY when a software simulator is available.
•• Option 2: Upgrade the Alinity ci-series System Software
Electronic Circuitry Activities
Activity: Using Terminal Access for SCM Boot-Up
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with procedures for diagnosing board or

connection failures.
Actions: Perform the steps below.
I. Normal Boot Observation SCM Embedded Computer
Reference: KM article K56913424 Observed Problem: Alinity i

module stays in Offline mode for the process and normal SCM
screen observations expected
1. Turn the SCM Power Switch to OFF.
2. Connect a VGA cable to the VGA port on the UIC monitor and the
SCM Embedded Computer VGA port.
3. Switch the monitor to view VGA by using the switch located at the
bottom of the monitor.
4. Turn ON the SCM Power Switch.
5. Observe boot sequence for the SCM Embedded Computer and

compare it to KM article K56913424.
Note: End message in this view will be “Tracelogger:tracelog_start:

Not supported.” Error 17 appears 3 times before trace logger
message; this is normal and means the front power switch is not in
the ON position.
Note: Change the view to check the Alinity software screen goes
to Stopped. KM article K56913424 has the procedure and the SCM
normal boot observation screens.
II. Abnormal SCM Boot
1. Disconnect the bottom Ethernet cable on the back of the UIC.
2. Power on the processing module’s main power supply.
3. Change the monitor to VGA to view the bootup.
5. Answer the following questions:

a. What error messages are present?
___________________________________________________________
b. How can this procedure be used to troubleshoot an OFFLINE
status?
___________________________________________________________
c. What instrument status do you see?
___________________________________________________________
7. Disconnect the VGA cable from the SCM Embedded Computer

and the SCM UIC.
8. Reconnect cables on the back of the UIC computer to the original

configuration.
9. Turn ON the SCM Power Switch.
10. Perform a Startup when all modules reach a Stopped status.
Alinity c Processing Module Circuitry and Components Electronic Circuitry
Alinity c Processing Module Circuitry and

Components
Card Cage Boards and Fans

Component Function
CPU •• Contains the Alinity c firmware and provides communication
with the SCM
•• A backup of the robotics information is stored in the CPU board
flash memory
•• Controls the movement of the reagent carousel servo motor by
monitoring sensor status and sending control data to the Servo
Motor Driver.
Note:
#2.
The Servo Motor Driver connects to CPU Com Port
SM AC/DC •• Controls the following components:

Controller 12VDC valves and solenoids
100VAC vacuum pump
24VDC pumps (3) in the Water Management Unit
•• 24VDC CABs Transfer Pumps (3)
•• 24VDC Reagent Transport (2) and position door motors (1)
Stepper Motor Controls the 2-phase and 5-phase DC stepper motors
Controller (SMC)
DAQ •• Converts the optical and ICT analog signals to a digital format
and sends data to the CPU and then the UIC
Optics and ICT will be discussed in a later section.

•• Uses stored robotics step table offsets alignment information in
SRAM memory
•• Board contains a non-replaceable capacitor that is continually
charged when the instrument is ON to maintain SRAM data and
robotic step table offsets
Note: To prevent system damage or data loss, follow the

installation or board replacement procedures to ensure
stored robotic step table offsets are correct.
Electronic Circuitry Alinity c Processing Module Circuitry and Components
Component Function
Pressure Monitoring •• Has a digital processor that monitors the electrical output signals
(PM) from the pressure monitoring sensors during the aspiration,
dispense, and wash processes on all probes
Note: PM board ships installed in the card cage.

•• Receives software firmware updates via Ethernet switch B
Note: Use ESD precaution when handling; board is highly

static sensitive.
Mech LED or Sensor •• Contains LEDs that indicate the status of the sensor signals input
Board to both the SMC and SM AC/DC controller boards
•• Located on the card cage door
Card Cage Fans •• Located in the card cage above the boards
•• 12VDC replaceable fan
Driver Box Boards and Miscellaneous Boards

The graphic below identifies components described in the table on the
following pages.
Board Function
Driver Box Boards

1. SIO Driver Board •• Receives control from the SM AC/DC Board
•• Applies voltage to drive the following:
12VDC - Solenoids and valves
24VDC - RD30/NRD30 Water pump and Water Bath Drain
Valve
100VAC - Vacuum Pump
2. LLS Board •• Used to detect contact with liquid surface by the sample and
reagent probes
Note: All LLS pipettor circuit board LEDs should be lit when
the system is on.
•• Receives ±15VDC from the CNN Board

•• Adjustable board potentiometers to set thresholds for liquid
detection
3. Mixer Driver •• Applies voltage to produce 70Hz and 120Hz to the two Mixers for
use in the Wash Cup and Cuvette
4. Temperature •• Water bath temperature is monitored and controlled by the TBC
Bath Controller board
(TBC) •• TBC monitors the status of the water bath temperature sensor
and drives a heater and pump to maintain water bath
temperature at 37°C
Note: Water bath temperature will be discussed in a later

section.
5. SMD-Q2 •• Receives control data from the Stepper Motor Controller (SMC)
(2-phase driver •• Directs power to 24VDC stepper motors
board)
•• 2-phase motors receive control signals via SMD-Q2
6. SMD-Q1
(2-phase driver •• 5-phase motors below receive control signals via SMD-Q1:
board) Sample pipettor z
7. 5-Phase Driver Sample pipettor theta
Boards (3) Reaction carousel
Note: The 5-phase stepper

motors perform smaller motor movements than 2-phase
stepper motors and are used on assemblies that require
precise movement control.
Board Function
Miscellaneous Boards
8. CNN Board •• Serves as a power supply and distribution/interface for signals
between the SMC and SM AC/DC controller boards and sensors
mounted within the instrument.
•• Contains 2 DC-DC converters that generate the following
voltages:
+5VDC: Voltage for photo sensors and Servo Motor Driver
±15VDC: Voltage for LLS board
9. Shut Board •• Located behind the maintenance key and panel
•• Acts as a safety switch to disable power from sample pipettor
when the rear cover is open
•• Receives 24VDC from power supply
Servo Motor Driver •• Located under base plate near reagent positioner door
•• Controlled by the CPU
•• Provides 60VDC to the reagent carousel servo motor
Cooler Controller •• Located above the processing module power supply on the
Board side
•• Sends temperature information to
the CPU Board
•• Controls the:
Cooler Unit operation
Reagent carousel lid heaters (2)
The heaters are placed
around the reagent
aspiration holes to prevent
condensation from forming around the opening
•• Monitors the:
Internal air temperature of the Reagent Supply Center
Lid sensors for the Reagent Positioner Assembly and the rear
service access cover
Reagent Coolant Bottle float sensor
ICT Pre-Amp Board •• Receives and amplifies signals from the ICT module and
transmits signals to DAQ board
I-ref Level Detect •• Connects to the IREF Cup electrode sensors to:
Board Detect the presence of IREF solution in the IREF Cup
Verify IREF solution is aspirated out of the cup by the ICT
probe.
Activities
Activity: Board Diagnostics
Time: 5 minutes
Purpose: Practice diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting and

normal servicing of the electronics.
Action: Verify SCM and PM board firmware revision:
System
Utilities
Select Current Firmware tab
a. Command Module Control Board firmware version:
__________________________
b. Pressure Monitoring Board firmware version:
__________________________
Activity: Processing Module Boot-Up Diagnostics
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: To be familiar with troubleshooting for Processing Modules

when unable to transition from STOPPED to IDLE Status
Actions: Perform the following steps and review Module

communications log file.
a. Log on as FSE
b. Cycle Power to Processing Module using the front Power Switch
c. When instrument status is STOPPED, select Start up to change
instrument status to IDLE
d. Perform the following:
1. Select System > File Explorer > C Drive.
2. Select the ICQ File displayed on right side of screen.
3. Open folder CC Instrument Controller.
4. Click Log Folder.
5. Select Module 1.
6. Select Module_Comm.log.
7. Scroll down to locate boot sequence.
Note: Locate line starting with DAQ Card detected

Note: The log file without a trailing number is the most current Log.
Activity: AbbottLink and Service Cadence
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: To integrate the AbbottLink AST Tool with service of the

Alinity c
Reference: AbbottLink Customer Training CBT
Actions: Complete the following activities as directed by your

instructor:
1. Navigate to the Utilities screen and select the Troubleshooting tab.
What is the main log collected for troubleshooting?
__________________________________
List the two ways logs can be collected.
__________________________________
__________________________________
2. List two specific logs beneficial to retrieve in AbbottLink to assist with

troubleshooting repeated Sample Pipettor LLS errors.
__________________________________
__________________________________
3. List the four categories of failure and one example of a service

requested for each category,
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
4. Define the abbreviation “pFORT”.
___________________________________________________________
5. What is the model Abbott uses to troubleshoot new or difficult

instrument errors?
___________________________________________________________
Electronic Circuitry Troubleshooting Summary
Boards Common Related Errors Diagnostic Procedures
SCM •• Processing Module and/or •• Observe Boot-up using Terminal

RSM OFFLINE status Access
•• No Holding current on RSM •• Verify board communication
Transport Motor using CLI Diagnostics
•• Check Board LED’s
•• Check Ethernet switch LED’s and
verify communication
•• Check cable connections
•• Verify the incoming power meets
specification
Processing •• Processing Module and/or •• Check LEDs on Card Cage
Module RSM OFFLINE status Boards
•• No Holding current on RSM •• Reseat Board and /or cable
Transport Motor connections
•• Robotic Crashes •• Inspect Board for damage
•• Initialization Failures •• M&D 4804 Save/Restore DAQ
•• Component homing errors or •• Verify the incoming power meets
time-out specification
Review Electronic Circuitry
Review
Time: 15 minutes
1. What voltages are maintained by the CNN board, and what is the
purpose of each voltage?
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
2. Match the board to its function in the table below.
BOARD FUNCTION
A. DAQ Controls the Reagent Transport

stepper motors
Provides power to move the
B. 60VDC SERVO Motor Driver Reaction Carousel and Sample
Pipettor movement
Performs photometric reads A/D
C. SM AC/DC Controller
conversion
D. SIO Driver Board Applies voltage to drive the reagent

carousel
E. 5-Phase Motor Drivers Provides power to the RD30 DC

Pump
3. List two features of the boards that are related to diagnostics.
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
(Continued on next page)
Electronic Circuitry Review
4. Use the service documentation to write the missing board

information on the diagram below.
Robotics
4 Robotics
Learning Objectives
•• Identify the physical location and function of robotic system and

reagent supply center components
•• Recognize errors related to the functioning of robotic system

components and connect these errors to appropriate service
procedures
•• Perform key removal, replacement, verification, and alignment

procedures
•• Incorporate AST and diagnostic tools, interpret data, and isolate

the root cause of robotic systems and reagent supply center
component failures
Topics
•• Robotics Overview
•• Processing Center Robotic Components
•• Reagent Supply Center Components
•• Reagent and Sample Manager Components
•• Review
Robotics Robotics Overview
Robotics Overview
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > Instrument

Overview > Valves, Motors and Sensors; LLS and Pressure
Monitoring.
The following are key features of the robotics system:
•• Coordinates and controls mechanical movements
•• Performs specific tasks designed to transport, mix, and clean

consumables, reagents, and samples
•• Motors will have a holding current shortly after power is applied to

the instrument
•• Use robotic step offset values for exact device positioning
•• Optical sensors are used to identify motor position
•• The CNN Board serves as an interface between the motor assembly

sensor signals and applicable controller board.
•• Status of motor assembly sensors input to applicable controller

board can be visually monitored via LEDs on the Sensor LED board
Robotics Overview Robotics
Topic Description
Robotics •• Stepper Motor Controller (SMC) Board firmware contains generic
Calibration step positions values
Offsets •• Calibrations adjust SMC Board generic step table to instrument
specific values or positions
Offset positions are updated on DAQ board and backed up on
the CPU board after completing M&D alignment procedures
M&D 4804 Save/Restore DAQ Data provides options to view,
modify, save, restore and print the offset step table information.
Robotics Robotics Overview
Topic Description
Motor Assembly •• Optical sensors and flags are used to determine the home,
Position Sensors rotational, or vertical position of a motor driven device
•• Many robotic assemblies locate the Home position by utilizing a
pitch flag on the motor drive shaft and a home flag on the device
that is being driven
•• When the leading edge of the home flag enters the home sensor:
The software starts monitoring the pitch sensor status.
The motor continues to run until the leading edge of the pitch
flag activates the pitch sensor.
•• When the leading edge of the pitch flag activates the pitch sensor:
The motor will stop. The pitch sensor stops the motor.
The software verifies that the home sensor is still active.
The home flag should be approximately centered in the sensor.
Processing Center Robotic Components Robotics
Processing Center Robotic Components

Overview > Valves Motors and Sensors for this discussion.
Note: Some components mentioned below will be discussed

further in the Fluidics module.
Processing Center Robotics General Overview
•• The Stepper Motor Controller Board (SMC) controls the movement

of the 2-phase and 5-phase stepper motors.
The 2-phase Stepper Motors are driven by SMD-Q1 and SMD-Q2.
The 5-phase Stepper Motors are driven by 5-phase SMDs and
the control signals are provided via SMD-Q1. 5-Phase Motor
Drivers:
Reaction Carousel Motor
Sample Pipettor Theta (Rotate) Motor
Sample Pipettor Z (Up/Down) Motor
•• The CNN board serves as an interface between the motor

assembly sensor signals and the stepper motor controller board.
•• The Sensor LED board contains LEDs to indicate the status of the
sensor signals input to the SMC and SM AC/DC controller boards.
•• SMD-Q1 provides 5VDC to SMD-Q2.
•• The +24 VDC comes directly from PS6.
Robotics Processing Center Robotic Components
Component Function
Reaction Carousel •• Contains 187 cuvettes in a 37°C water bath
•• The carousel rotates counter clockwise ¼ of a turn to position
cuvettes for assay processing.
•• Features include:
5-phase stepper motor
Four guide rollers apply tension to hold carousel
One adjustable guide roller and three fixed guide rollers
Adjustable guide roller is located by the optics assembly
and is used to adjust the optics beam height for low
reaction volume assays
•• Carousel alignment procedures include:
M&D 5006 Reaction Carousel Calibration - Automated
calibration to align carousel to optics
P-4008 Reaction Carousel Alignment -
Home and pitch sensors alignment
M&D 4004 Beam Height Alignment -
Adjusts height of reaction carousel to
align with optics for low volume reaction
assays
Trained Service personnel will use the Cuvette Height
Alignment Tool for the procedure
•• Optical Trigger Sensor monitors positional flags on cuvette
segments
Cuvette segment flags are used to signal a cuvette optics
read
Adjusted during M&D 4001 Optics Trigger Sensor Check
Component Function
Cuvette Washer •• Uses eight nozzles mounted on a platform and a lower
mechanical section to raise and lower the nozzles used in the
8-step cuvette washing process
NOTE: Cuvette Washer Fluidics will be covered in another

module.
Two optical sensors for the elevator Up and Down positions
2-phase stepper motor and lead screw to raise and lower
cuvette wash head
•• Manual alignment performed via P-4009 Cuvette Washer
Alignment
Uses alignment Tool engraved with “WASH”
Dry tip alignment is critical to ensure complete
drying of Cuvettes prior to using the Cuvette
for sample analysis
Component Function
Mixers Assembly •• Mixers incorporate piezoelectric technology, which uses crystals
to produce electricity when under strain or vibration when a
voltage at a specific frequency is applied
•• Upper and lower sections use 2-phase stepper motors
•• Lower mechanical section:
Uses a linear slide with Up and Down sensors to detect the
mechanism vertical positioning
•• Upper section:
Two customer replaceable mixer blades:
Uses a piezoelectric effect
−− Mixer Driver Board applies voltage to the mixers at two
different frequencies
−− 120Hz is used for faster movement/shorter travel when
down in the cuvette or wash cup
−− 70 Hz is used for slower movement to remove water
from the mixer in the upper position at the wash cup
Mixer moves horizontally between the reaction carousel
and mixer wash cup
Optical sensor located in front of wash cup to detect
blade movement
•• Manual alignment performed via P-4011 Mixer 1 Alignment and
P-4012 Mixer 2 Alignment
Uses alignment tool “STR”
Component Function
ICT Assembly •• Positions the ICT probe at the Cuvette or IREF Cup to perform ICT
analysis of control, calibrator or patient samples
•• The ICT Assembly include:
ICT Module and holder
Two water lines to circulate 37°C water around the ICT Module
to indirectly stabilize the ICT Module temperature
Optical sensors to indicate when assembly is in the up/down or
rotational home position.
Upper and lower sections use 2-phase stepper motors
•• Manual alignment performed via P-4010 ICT Alignment.
Uses the following robotic alignment blocks:
“ELC” labeled robotic alignment block
used for the cuvette alignment position
“ELC-POD” labeled alignment block used for

the IREF Cup alignment position
Component Function
Sample Pipettor (S) •• Motors and belts are used to drive the assembly in horizontal and
vertical movement
•• 5-phase stepper motors are used for theta and Z movement
Home and pitch sensors are used for theta and Z home
positions
•• The automated pipettor probe calibration:
Uses a calibration alignment tool located in the customer
maintenance kit
Is calibrated at the following positions:
Automated:
−− Sample wash cup
−− Sample positioner
−− Reaction carousel
Manual: Smart wash solution tubes
•• Crash guard sensor located in the pipettor head detects
obstacles during downward pipettor movement
Crash sensor adjusted using M&D 4101Crash Sensor Alignment
Caution: Manually rotating pipettor with power on may result in

component damage, mis-alignment, and replacement of a HCP.
Component Function
Reagent Pipettors •• Motors and belts are used to drive R1 and R2 pipettors
(R1, R2) horizontally and vertically by 24VDC 2-phase stepper motors
Theta and Z home and pitch sensors
Probe height sensor - Used to detect when probe is raised to a
safe height for the reagent carousel to rotate
12VDC stop solenoid to prevent falling and probe damage
when power is removed
Crash guard sensor located in the pipettor head detects
obstacles during pipettor downward movement
Adjusted using M&D 4101Crash Sensor Alignment
•• The automated pipettor probe calibration:
Uses a calibration alignment tool located in the customer
maintenance kit
Calibrates probe at following positions:
Wash Cup
Reagent Carousel
Reaction Carousel
•• R1 and R2 pipettor are not interchangeable.
Caution: Manually rotating pipettor with power on may result in

component damage, mis-alignment, and replacement of a HCP.
Processing Center Activities
Activity: Robotics Systems Service Procedures
Time: 90 minutes
Purpose: To practice robotics system service procedures.
Service Tips:
•• Ensure the proper alignment blocks are used to prevent errors.
•• Remove power to instrument before moving any pipettor to
prevent mis-alignment of home and pitch sensors.
•• Use a digital multi-meter to measure the actual frequency at the
mixer blade cable connection.
•• Ensure cuvette washer is in the up position after performing the
alignment procedure to prevent nozzle and cuvette damage.
Actions: Perform the following procedures:
1. P-4013 Sample Pipettor Head Horizontal Alignment
Caution: Damage and mis-alignment of the home and pitch sensors

may occur if the pipettor head is rotated manually during
horizontal alignment.
2. M&D 4804 Save/Restore DAQ Data
3. M&D 4101Crash Sensor Alignment (perform on ONLY 1 pipettor)
4. Use M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool to manually align the following
positions:
R1 Pipettor Water Bath Additive position
Note: Ensure the deck cover is on prior to performing alignment for

Water Bath Additive position.
To align the probes from the M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool:
Select:
−− Procedures
−− Diagnostics tab
−− Module 1
−− M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool
−− Perform
Acknowledge service procedure key message and ensure
the key is turned horizontally.
Select:
−− Proceed
Type assembly number to move:
−− R1 Pipettor
Select:
−− Home
−− Move to Position – choose position for alignment
◊ R1 Pipettor: Water Bath Additive position
−− Continue
−− Align
◊ Tap Clockwise or Counterclockwise to align the
probe to the position
−− Return to Previous menu
−− Down
−− Vertical Adjustment (to check)
◊ Down or LLS Down
◊ UP
−− Return to Previous menu
−− Done
−− Home
−− Return
−− Type 10 to End
Select:
◊ Continue
◊ Proceed
◊ Done
5. M&D 5006 Reaction Carousel Calibration
6. P-4009 Cuvette Washer Alignment
7. P-4010 ICT Alignment
8. P-4011 Mixer 1 Alignment
9. P-4012 Mixer 2 Alignment
10. M&D 4103 R1 Pipettor or 4104 R2 Pipettor Calibration
Note: The R1 & R2 Pipettor calibrations are similar and will be

performed as needed in class.
11. M&D 5002 Mixer Vibration Test
Note: Use a digital multimeter and place leads in the connector

end to verify mixer frequency when performing the M&D.
Mixer 1: Low frequency ________High frequency _________
Mixer 2: Low frequency ________ High frequency ________
Note: If performing M&D with the interior service LED (light) on,
movement of mixer blades may appear slower.
Activity: Troubleshooting and High Cost Part Service Cadence Activity
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: Practice developing a troubleshooting plan using service

tools and best practices in service situations.
Actions: Read the scenario below and then answer the questions that
follow.
Troubleshooting Scenario
The lab supervisor at Aventura Medical has contacted the Support

Center regarding error 5745 Reagent Pipettor Movement Restricted,
which has occurred intermittently over the past week.
It is now causing the system to go into Stopped status. The supervisor

said the lead tech has performed the following troubleshooting
without resolution and requested service.
•• No obstructions noted
•• Replaced probe
•• Probe calibration failed
•• Daily Maintenance was successful that morning
Develop a Repair Plan
Abbott: The following actions are for Abbott personnel only. Non-
Abbott participants should partner with an Abbott participant.
1. Navigate to MyGSS and list below the resources you could use to
help isolate the cause of the failure.
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
GPPM and High Cost Part Activity
If the R2 pipettor was identified as the cause of the issue, complete the
following using GPPM:
1. What is the GPPM factory standard cost for the part?
________________________________________________________________
2. Is the reagent pipettor a high-cost part? Yes / No (Circle one)
3. What GPPM indicators are available to inform you the part is an

HCP?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
4. Where do you find the process to get the HCP approved?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
Robotics Reagent Supply Center Components
Reagent Supply Center Components

The reagent supply center provides cooled storage at a controlled
temperature for reagent cartridges, onboard solutions, sample
diluents, and frequently used calibrators and controls. Cartridges and
vial racks are loaded on the reagent and sample manager (RSM) and
are transferred to the reagent positioner by the RSM transport.
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > General Data >

Valves Motors & Sensors for this discussion.
Note: Temperature will be discussed in a later module.
Reagent Supply Center Components Robotics
Component Function
Reagent •• The carousel is split into 12 segments
Carousel Segments 1-11 each hold a maximum of 6 cartridges.
On-board vial racks cannot be stored in segments 1-11.
Segment 12 contains the reagent carousel calibration target.
Segment 12 holds a maximum of 4 cartridges or on-board vial
racks
•• Cooled to 2–10°C using a liquid-cooling system (Abbott-specific
antifreeze)
•• 60VDC Servo motor rotates reagent carousel ring pinion gear
CPU board controls the movement of the servo motor
Servo Driver applies the 60VDC to drive the motor
A magnetic home sensor is used to detect carousel home position.
Home position is used as a reference when the carousel moves a
reagent cartridge to the aspiration position or CRA door location.
Component Function
Reagent •• Provide closure of the Reagent Supply Center
Positioner •• Position cartridges and vial racks to load in the reagent carousel or
(door) onto the loading area.
Door alternates open and closed for the complete positioning
event
Open Position – cartridge or rack is transferred to the loading
area reagent positioner pocket
Closed Position – cartridge or rack is lifted by the reagent
transport
Open Position – cartridge is lowered into reagent carousel
Closed Position – cartridge or rack is inside the reagent
carousel
•• Manual access of reagent cartridges from the carousel is available in
the event of a failure.
Note: The door is easily damaged. Follow proper service

procedures to prevent damage to the reagent positioner door.
•• 24VDC motor
•• 5VDC sensors used for:
Open and closed limits
Door removal detection
Detects door removal with power ON or OFF and initiates
mandatory cartridge removal and re-scan
•• To manually open the reagent positioner
door:
Power OFF
Carefully, push the small tab on the
door with a screwdriver beneath the
guide
Manually slide to open all the way
Reagent Supply Center Components Robotics
Component Function
Reagent •• Moves Reagent Cartridges, Calibrator or Control racks between the
Transport Reagent Transfer pocket and a position on the Reagent Carousel
•• Motion coordinated with reagent position
•• 24VDC motor
•• Sensor provides an input to the CNN Board
Reagent Transport
Function
Sensors
Cartridge Present •• Detect presence of a cartridge or rack
•• Used in the calibration of carousel rotational
alignment to the transport
•• Reflective sensor. Also known as “SICK”
sensor.
Cartridge Picked •• Detects proper engagement of the cartridge
lift tab
•• Optical interrupt sensor mounted on the
Reagent Transport Cartridge Load Board
Latched •• Roller switch (mechanical sensor) located at
the bottom center of the lifter
•• Detect proper release of the latch for each
cartridge slot in the carousel.
Calibration •• Mechanical sensor wired in series with the
latched sensor
•• Used for aligning the transport to the carousel
Reagent Supply Center Activity
Activity: Reagent Supply Center
Time: 60 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with performing service procedures related

to the reagent supply center.
Service Tips:
•• Ensure all reagents are properly removed prior to servicing the

reagent cooling area to prevent time loss on reagent packs.
•• Follow approved service procedures to prevent damage to the

reagent positioner door.
Action: Instructor demonstration of the Reagent Cartridge Latch

removal unless removal was previously performed during component
discussions
Action: Perform the following reagent supply center procedures. Refer

to the Alinity c service documentation.
R&R C1.10 Reagent Positioner Assembly
R&R C1.09 Reagent Segment
M&D 4701 Reagent Carousel Home
M&D 4703 Reagent Supply Center Test
Reagent and Sample Manager Components Robotics
Reagent and Sample Manager

Components
Alinity c RSM Components – Standalone Configuration

Reagent and Sample Manager
•• Overview of RSM components
•• RSM Configurations
Component Function
Sample •• Each module has two sample positioners
Positioners (2) Rack exchange occurs between
loading area and a sample positioner
Position samples for aspiration at the
sample pipettor
•• 42VDC power provided by the RSM 2 axis
driver board and control from SCM Control
Board
SCM Control Board provides
communication through the Load/
Unload Control Board
•• Replaceable components include:
Motors
Encoders
Belts
Home sensors
Pockets
Latches and latch springs
Robotics Reagent and Sample Manager Components
Component Function
RSM Transport •• Moves racks and cartridges to and
from locations:
Loading area
Bar code reader for sample,
reagent, and solution
identification
Sample or reagent positioner
•• Contain 3 replaceable motors that
receive 42VDC from SCM Control
Board
X motor - Servo motor that moves
the RSM transport across the front
of all Alinity systems
Z motor - Provides the vertical
movement of the transport arm
for pick and place of racks or
cartridges.
Theta motor - Rotates the transport
arm to move a rack or cartridge
from the load and process
positions
•• Additional replaceable components
include:
Transport Interface board -
Connects power and routes
signals for transport position
sensors, barcode reader (BCR)
communication, and motor drives
to the SCM
Transport Arm - Engages and lifts
the rack or cartridge tab
Track rollers - One spring and 2
fixed loaded grooved rollers that
ride on the upper and lower rails
Note: Top roller is spring loaded

to keep the
transport firmly latched to
minimize a change
in the Z position.
Component Function
RSM Transport Sensor Description
Sensors
Transport Arm (2 •• Present sensor (reflective): Detects if rack/
sensors) cartridge is present at a pick-up point
Also used with the RSM X calibration
target to establish X corrections for
each Processing Module
•• Picked sensor (optical interrupt): Mounted
on the Transport End Sensor board and
detects if the rack or cartridge was
properly picked or placed.
Instrument X home Detects home flag located at the far right of
any work cell combination
•• For standalone, single processing module
instrument, the instrument X home flag is
located on the SCM.
•• For multi-module system, the system X
home flag is moved to the farthest right
processing module.
Processing module X •• Detects home flag at the left of each
home processing module
•• Used to set the X position information
within the limits of a specific module
Theta home Detects arm in the theta home position
Z home Detects arm in the top upper or home
position
Component Function
RSM Transport •• The X drive and tension system controls the X motion of the RSM
X Drive and Transport and includes the following components:
Tension Toothed belt - Moves the RSM transport back and forth on guide rails
System via the X motor.
Right and Left idler or Transport End Pulley - Toothed idlers with flanges
used to guide the belt at the left and right sides of the instrument.
Double idler or Transport Dual-Idler Pulley - Smooth idlers used to
guide the belt around the X motor toothed motor pulley.
•• Belt tension is auto-set by a

preloading spring system that
forces the motor down into
the U-bend of the belt.
Caution: Flex chain is intended to be moved in a single direction and must

be handled to prevent damage and movement errors.
Component Function
RSM Transport •• Controls position and minimizes wear for the three cables that connects
Cable Chain power and signals from the SCM to the RSM Transport Interface Board
for:
Position sensors signals
BCR communication
X-motor drive
Note: Cable chains are in 2 different

lengths for instrument configurations:
Standalone and dual modules
Three and four module configurations
Component Function
RSM Barcode •• Imaging (camera) type reader mounted on the RSM Transport.
Reader •• Gathers all information on the barcode label being read with a single
flash.
The BCR imager is mounted at the top of the RSM Transport so that
the lens is facing down.
A mirror angled at 45 degrees allows the side mounted labels to be
imaged by the reader.
Note: The mirror requires care in handling and cleaning. The

reflective coating is easily scratched since there is no protective
glass.
Note: A microfiber cloth included in the Alinity c accessory kit is

used to clean mirror.
•• Connects directly to Ethernet switch A for communication to the UIC

and SCM embedded computer.
Reagent and Sample Manager Activity
Activity Option 1: RSM Service Procedures
Time: 60 minutes
Purpose: To practice procedures associated with RSM installation,

maintenance and diagnostics.
Note: Some procedures will be available later.

Service Tips:
•• Transport belt tension is set when the transport motor belt
adjustment mechanism screw is loosened.
•• SuperLube Oil is used only on the left and right Idler Pulley shoulders
to keep the belt inside the pulley.
•• Move the Carrier Transport to extreme left of RSM to remove it or
perform maintenance to prevent damage to transport sensors.
•• Proper belt positioning is important for proper operation.
•• M&D 1600 RSM Transport Calibration procedure aligns the Carrier
Transport position with positioner pockets, tray and Carrier positions.
The FSE logon procedure has a manual RSM platform horizontal
alignment check for each module.
Reference: Refer to ISA 210-001 Alinity c current installation

procedure and Alinity c Service documentation.
Reference: Refer to the Alinity ci-series Service Documentation

or steps in ISA 210-006 Alinity c Maintenance for De-tensioning
procedure to remove RSM transport and belt.
Actions: Use the checklist on the following pages to remove and re-
install the RSM transport and belt.
Checklist
Note: The information in the checklist below was shown in the RSM
training video.
Checklist
Remove Steps
Turn OFF the SCM power.
Remove the workcell left and
right side covers.
Move the RSM transport to
the extreme left side of the
processing module.
Open the SCM front cover and
remove the UIC and set to side
(no need to disconnect cables).
Loosen the belt tension:
a. Loosen the pivot mount lock
screw and release spring
pressure by turning the
adjustment screw to raise the
compression nut.
b. Lift the motor on its pivot mount
so that the assembly is slightly
above horizontal to reduce belt
tension. Tighten the lock screw to
hold the motor in place.
Using a 3mm Allen wrench,
remove the left transport pulley
bracket that is being secured by
two hex screws.
Remove the rail clamp (stop) on
the left side of the module.
Remove belt from top slot of RSM
transport clamp.
Checklist
Cut the black zip ties then
remove the connectors from the
transport interface PCB.
Using a 2.5mm Allen wrench,
remove the grounding cable
screw.
Unsnap the last link of the flex

chain from the rounded edge
chain bracket on the transport
frame.
Slide the transport off the rails and

remove belt from lower slot of
clamp.
Remove transport belt from
instrument.
Reinstall Steps
Make a loop and route the belt
between the Double Idler pulleys
and around the X motor pulley
system.
Take the right belt end and

insert it underneath the Right
Idler pulley. Pull it over the top
and toward the left side of the
instrument.
Checklist
On the left side of module, hold
the Transport in one hand, with
belt teeth facing downward, and
insert the Right End of the belt
coming from Right Idler pulley
into the lower clamp slot at the
underside of the Transport. Leave
one tooth extending beyond the
clamp.
Place the Transport onto the rails

from the left end so that the top
and bottom rollers engage the
rails.
Roll the Transport to the extreme
right on the rail assembly.
Reinstall the left side pulley
assembly.
Pull the end of the belt coming
from the Left pulley as tight as
possible (use needle nose pliers if
needed).
Align the height of the belt with
top slot of clamp and slip belt into
the jaws of the top slotted clamp.
Roll excess belt and tuck into
base of transport.
Move transport to left and right of

module to verify that no cables
or labels are rubbing against the
chain or side of the RSM.
Checklist
At the Transport motor belt
adjustment mechanism, tighten
the adjusting screw so that the
nut compresses the spring.
Place the nut at the machined
indicator mark on the motor back
plate.
Release the lock screw.

Motor will drop and correct
tension is applied to the belt.
Tighten the lock screw again to
hold the tension.
While holding the transport at

its base (do not touch the PCB),
move it along the entire length of
the rail system and ensure that it
moves smoothly.
Move the transport back to the
left end of the rail assembly
Attach the last link of the flex
chain to the rounded edge chain
bracket on the transport frame.
Attach the connectors of the
cables to their appropriate
headers on the transport
interface PCB.
Route the transport arm coil
cable so 3 loops remain on the
Picker side.
This will prevent the cable
interference when the
Transport moves to pick up
carriers.
Checklist
On the board side of the
Transport, tuck the cable behind
the BCR ethernet cable.
This will help naturally restrain
the bouncing cable.
Secure the cables with cable ties.

Use the grounding cable to
keep all cables together.
Use one tie to secure the
entire bundle. Use another
longer tie to secure the
bundle to the frame of the
transport to provide strain
relief.
Power ON module.
Complete the following

verification procedures:
M&D 1600 RSM Transport
Calibration
−− Note: Log on as FSE
before performing this
procedure.
M&D 1620 RSM Bar Code
Reader Test
M&D 1610 Reagent and
Sample Handler Test
−− Note: For training
purposes, insert only a few
racks/trays for testing to
learn the M&D function.
Activity Option 2: RSM Transport and Theta Target Service
Time: 60 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize you with performing service procedures related

to the RSM Transport assembly
Reference: Refer to TSB-214-018B RSM Transport and Theta Target

and ISA-214-013 RSM Services.
Actions:
1. Using the TSB and ISA listed above, perform:
Theta Motor Check
Check for Z Guide Binding
Correct Guide Rail
Twist Roller Guides and Belt
2. Answer the following questions.
a. What symptoms or errors can occur if the RSM transport arm was
binding?
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
b. List any ISAs and TSBs related to RSM Service or troubleshooting.
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Robotics Troubleshooting Summary
Hardware Symptoms/Errors Related Procedures
Cuvette •• Improper washing •• P-4009 Cuvette Washer Alignment
Washer •• Unexpected sensor status while •• P-4046 Cuvette Wash Elevator
moving down Lubrication
•• Broken or discolored dryer tips •• D7.06 Cuvette Drying Tip
•• Assay imprecision •• Replace nozzles
•• Damaged cuvettes •• Check cuvette washer sensor
function on MECH board
Pipettors •• Restricted movement •• M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool
Pipettor calibration failures •• M&D 4102 Sample Pipettor
Crash sensor misalignment Calibration
•• LLS errors •• P-4049 Sample and Reagent

Pipettor Lubrication
•• Assay imprecision
•• M&D 4103 R1 Pipettor Calibration
•• Pressure monitor errors
•• M&D 4104 R2 Pipettor Calibration
•• M&D 4101 Crash Sensor Alignment
Mixer •• Assembly crashes or •• M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool
Assembly unexpected status •• M&D 5001 Mixer Alignment
•• Assay imprecision •• M&D 5002 Mixer Vibration Test
Reaction •• Homing failures •• M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool

Carousel Damaged motor pitch flag •• M&D 5006 Reaction Carousel
Damaged motor coupler Calibration
•• Movement or obstruction errors •• P-4008 Reaction Carousel

Alignment
Damaged cuvettes and/or
segments •• P-4042 Reaction Carousel
Lubrication
•• Cuvette integrity check errors
•• Check Reaction Carousel sensor
function on MECH board
Reagent •• Movement or homing errors •• M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool
Carousels •• Reagent Pipettor crashes •• Check carousel sensor function on
•• Noisy operation MECH board
ICT •• ICT aspiration errors •• P-4010 ICT Alignment
Assembly •• P-4047 ICT Elevator Lubrication
•• M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool
Troubleshooting Summary Robotics
Hardware Symptoms/Errors Related Procedures

RSM •• RSM carrier transport and arm •• M&D 1600 RSM Transport
movement errors Calibration
•• Pick/place robotic errors for: •• M&D 1620 RSM Bar Code Reader
Sample racks at the load Test
platform or sample positioner •• R&R RSM Transport Assembly
Cartridge at reagent •• Clean rollers and guide rail
positioner or reagent •• Tension RSM Transport Belt
carousel
•• Lubricate Transport End Pulleys
Stepper Motor Control Summary
Controller
Components Driver Board
Board
2-Phase Motors: SMC SMD-Q1
•• R1 Pipettor Theta and Z Motors
•• R2 Pipettor Theta and Z Motors
•• Mixer 1 Arm Theta and Z Motors
•• Mixer 2 Arm Theta and Z Motors
•• Cuvette Washer Z Motor
•• ICT Arm Theta and Z Motors
5-Phase Motors: SMC Three individual 5-phase driver
•• Reaction Carousel Motor boards:
•• Sample Pipettor Theta and Z Motors •• Reaction Carousel Driver

•• Sample Pipettor Theta Driver
Note: The 5-phase stepper
motors perform smaller
•• Sample pipettor Z Driver
movements than 2-phase
stepper motors and are used on
Note: Control signals
to 5-phase motors are
assemblies that require precise provided via SMD-Q1.
movement control.
2-Phase Motors: SM AC/DC SMD-Q2
•• Reagent Transport Y Motor Controller
•• Reagent Transport Z Motor

•• Reagent Positioner (Door) Open/
Close Motor
Robotics Review
Review
Time: 10 minutes
1) Complete the table below.
Component Voltage Controller Board

Reaction Carousel
Motor
RSM Transport X Motor
Reagent Positioner
Door (CRA Door)
Cuvette Washer Up/

Down Motor
Reagent Supply
Center Carousel
2) List two visual symptoms that might suggest the cuvette washer is
misaligned.
Fluidics
5 Fluidics
Learning Objectives
•• Identify the physical location and function of fluidics system

components
•• Use fluidics diagrams to identify how fluid flows through the system
and how waste is removed
•• Perform key removal and replacement, verification, and alignment

procedures for fluidics system components
•• Describe the functions and physical location of components

related to liquid level sense and pressure monitoring
•• Apply AST and service tools to diagnose, interpret data, and isolate
root causes of common fluidic system failures
Topics
•• Fluidics Overview
•• Water Distribution System
•• Processing Module Fluidics
•• Fluidics Processes Overview
•• Cuvette Washer
•• Waste Removal
•• ICT Fluidics and Sample Progression
•• Liquid Level Sense and Pressure Monitoring
•• Pressure Monitoring Overview
•• Review
Fluidics Fluidics Overview
Fluidics Overview

Fluidics Overview.
The main tasks of the fluidics system are listed below:
•• Water Management - The fluidics system directs the flow of

incoming and internal water throughout the system for use in:
Internal sample and reagent probe and mixer blade
washing
External sample and reagent probe washing
Water bath fill, circulation and drain
Collection and removal of waste fluids
•• Degassing
Reduces bubbles within the water fluidics areas
•• Waste removal
High Concentration Waste
Low Concentration Waste
•• ICT Fluidics
ICT Reference Solution Cup empty and fill
ICT Reference Solution and sample aspiration
The fluidics system uses electronic and check valves to direct fluid flow
throughout the system for use or to move out to waste
•• Valve control: SM AC/DC Controller Board
•• Valve power: Receives 12VDC from SIO Driver Board

Fluid flows to Normally Open (NO) port when 12VDC is NOT
applied.
Fluid flows to Normally Closed (NC) port to an area for use or to
move fluid to waste when 12VDC is applied.
Note: An audible noise can usually be heard when power is

applied and the valve is closed.

Fluidics Overview.
Fluidics Overview Fluidics
Continuous Access Bulk Solutions (CABS)

Overview > Fluidics.
Component Function
Holder/ •• Color-coded, keyed mechanisms used for manual loading the 3 bulk
Cradle solutions without having to stop the instrument
Assemblies Bulk solution bottles contain keyed caps to prevent incorrect bottle
(3) loading.
Bulk solution bottle septums may become damaged and leak if
bottle is removed/replaced repeatedly.
•• Consists of:
Bottle Key Piercing Mechanism Assembly - Filler and venting needle
probes used to puncture bottle septums for the transfer process
Probes will only engage when bottles are loaded correctly and
tightly secured in position.
Note: Probes retract for safety when bottles are removed.
Bottle Button Assembly - Releases empty bottles for replacement
Fluidics Fluidics Overview
Component Function
Onboard •• A bulk solution reservoir inside the instrument that receives reagents
Reservoir from the bulk solution door containers and provides reliable system
Assemblies access of reagents as needed
(3) 0.5L on board Alkaline Bottle
0.5L on board Acid Bottle
1L on board ICT Reference Solution Bottle
•• Bulk solutions are flushed automatically:
When processing module RUN is performed after it is powered
After a bulk solution is replaced
•• Reservoir bottles contain a float sensor to detect empty, fill, and full
liquid levels.
Note: A bottle that fills too slowly may indicate a leak, restricted
tubing, or a weak pump.
Fluidics Overview Fluidics
Component Function
Transfer •• Three 24VDC pumps and 12VDC valves are located in the CABS tray
Pumps (3) assembly.
and Valves •• Transfer pumps and valves are controlled by the SM AC/DC Controller
(3) board and driven by the SIO driver board.
•• Normally closed valves prevent solutions from draining into the bottle
reservoirs.
ICT Reference Solution uses a pinch valve and tubing for transfer to
the reservoir bottle.
•• All contents from Bulk Solution Bottles are transferred to the onboard
reservoir bottles when the configured threshold is detected by the
bottle float sensor.
Configured default threshold is 20%.
Note: A bottle that fills too slowly may indicate a leak, restricted
tubing, or a weak pump.
•• Transfer pumps and valves are controlled by the SM AC/DC Controller
board and driven by the SIO driver board.
•• Bottle empty consumable message means CABS door inventory

requires replacement.
•• Inventory displays total bulk solution volume = CABS door bottle
volume + reservoir bottle volume.
Bulk solution on the door will empty 100% of the bottle into the
reservoir when the level sensor or float switch and software identify
a low condition.
Bottle configured default is set at 20%.
Fluidics Water Distribution System
Water Distribution System
Reference: Alinity c ISA 210-001/current revision System Installation

Procedure; Alinity ci-series ISA 214-001/current revision System Pre-
Site Interview and Inspection; and Alinity i Service Documentation
> 2-Troubleshooting > Fluidics
The Fluidics Diagram below shows the Lower and Upper Fluidics
functions and components.
•• The components are in the SCM under the SCM power supply.
•• Incoming water is routed under the processing module(s).
Water Distribution System Fluidics
Component Function
Water Distribution •• Inlet water specification supports any combination of a 4 multi-
Manifold modules workcell
Water pre-site inlet specification: 15-90 psi/ 70-172 kPa
SCM Regulator - Replaceable component that regulates
incoming water pressure 15-20 psi/ 0.103hPa – 0.172hPa
•• Two-outlet manifold used to direct
regulated water to the Water
Management Unit (WMU)
Right Port: directs water to
standalone system
Left Port: directs water to the
second or integrated system
Note: Additional modules (3 or

4) are connected to either the
unused left or right ports tee
fitting.
Fluidics Processing Module Fluidics
Processing Module Fluidics

Fluidics Overview.
Water Management Unit (WMU) Overview

General Data > Fluidics Overview and latest version of ISA, Alinity
ci-series pre-site interview and inspection for water specification.
The Water Management Unit (WMU) performs the following functions:
•• Supplies water to the degasser
•• Supplies water to the wash cups and cuvette washer
•• Supplies water for the internal probe wash
•• Fills the water bath
•• Circulates and heats the water bath
•• Drains the water bath
•• Provides low concentration waste (LCW) and high concentration

waste (HCW) management
Note: Temperature control will be discussed in the Temperature

Systems training module.
Processing Module Fluidics Fluidics
WMU Related Components
WMU Water Management Components
Component Function
Inlet Water •• Input for plumbed Reagent Grade Type II Water: 15–20psi or
Connection 0.103hPa–0.172hPa
•• Connections located underneath left rear corner of instrument
Inlet Water •• Two-way, normally closed electronic valve regulates incoming water
Valve 12VDC applied allows FILL of the water tank
Closed: voltage removed STOPS incoming water
Flow Restrictor Contains a narrow diameter to restrict/slow incoming water flow
DI Water Tank •• 9L water reservoir
and Float •• Fills automatically to maintain water availability for distribution and
Sensors (3) use throughout the instrument
•• Water levels are monitored by float switches:
Overflow float sensor - Provides alerts of an overflow condition
High (full) and low float sensors - Signal control to open/close
incoming ON/OFF valve
WMU Probe and Wash Cup Components
Component Function
RD30/NRD30 •• 24VDC pump is ALWAYS ON when the instrument is ON and water is
Water Pump present in the water tank
Continual water circulation
decreases occurrence of
contamination
•• Provides water to:
Mixer
Sample and reagent probe
wash cups
Cuvette Wash Nozzles 1, 4, 5
Fluidics Processing Module Fluidics
Component Function
Internal Probe •• 24VDC pump supplies degassed water for internal probe cleaning
Wash Water A common manifold moves fluid to three separate, probe water
Pump with lines
Damper
Water flows through a syringe, PM sensor, and probes
•• A two-way valve is used for water flow control
SIO Driver provides drive
SM AC/DC Controller Board provides control
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation Internal Probe

Wash Diagram.
WMU Water Bath Related Components
Component Function
Water Bath •• Pump supplies degassed water to water
Fill Peristaltic bath based on bath float switch status
Pump The float switch is located inside water
bath
Note: When replacing tubing, use all

supplied lubricant on the tubing.
•• Replaceable 12VDC 2-phase motor

SM AC/DC Controller provides control
and SIO Driver Board provides voltage
Water Bath •• 24VDC pump recirculates heated water:

Circulation For the water bath to warm cuvette for assay processing reaction
RD20/NRD20
Pump and To the ICT Module warming jacket to stabilize ICT voltage readings
Heater •• Pump TBC - Driver provides drive
•• SM AC/DC Controller Board provides control
Note: Water heater will be reviewed later in the Temperature

module.
Water Bath •• Replaceable; filters heated water as it exits the heater
Filter
Water Bath •• Empties the water bath to LCW during M&D procedures
Drain Valve •• SM AC/DC Controller Board supplies the control signal SIO Driver
•• Board provides the 24VDC
Processing Module Fluidics Fluidics
Degasser
Component Function
Degasser •• Receives 24VDC from PS6
•• Receives water from WMU and supplies degassed water to:
Internal probe wash pump
Wash solution pump supplies degassed
water to:
Dilute acid and alkaline solutions for
cuvette cleaning
Cuvette Washer Nozzle 6 for a
cuvette water blank read
Water bath fill pump
•• Located behind the onboard reservoir
bottles drawer
Note: The drawer must be removed to

see the degasser.
•• Canister contains semi-permeable membrane tubing that removes air

from incoming water
3201 Degasser Pressure High error generated when tubing leaks
water into canister
P-4005 Degasser Canister Draining is used to remove excess water
•• Canister and fuse are replaceable
Fluidics Fluidics Processes Overview
Fluidics Processes Overview
Water Bath

Additional Water Bath components will be reviewed in this section

along with the overview of the water bath fill, circulation, and drain
processes.
Note: The following components are used for the water bath processes
and were discussed with the WMU previously.
•• Water Bath Fill Pump
•• Water Bath Heater Assembly
•• Water Bath Filter
•• Degasser
Component Function/Description
Water Bath Float •• Located in the water bath
Switch •• Signals the SM AC/DC Controller to ensure bath water level is full
Float switch is OFF - Signals the water fill pump to fill water bath
Float switch ON - Signals the water bath heater assembly and
circulation pump to circulate heater water to a filter
and
Note: To prevent pump damage, the circulation pump
heater will ONLY turn ON when the float switch signals
the processing module the water bath is full.
•• Replaceable
•• Function affected by:
Unclean conditions or dirt
An unlevel instrument
Water Bath Drain •• Drains water from water bath during M&D procedures
Valve SIO Driver board provides 12VDC to opens the
valve
SM AC/ DC Control Board controls the valve
function
Fluidics Processes Overview Fluidics
Water Bath Fill •• Peristaltic pump sends degassed water to the water bath
•• A float switch in the water bath monitors the water level and
sends signal to module when the water bath is full.
A float switch full signals the:
Water bath fill pump to turn OFF
Circulation pump to turn ON
Water bath heater to turn ON
Water Bath •• The water heater and water bath circulation RD20/NRD20 pump
Heating and recirculates the bath water to maintain a constant temperature
Circulation of 37°C .
•• Water flows through the pump, into the heater, and through
a manifold, then moves to the following two areas to keep
components at a constant temperature:
Water bath
ICT warming jacket
Note: Temperature will be reviewed in a later module.
Probes and Mixers

Additional probes and mixer fluidic-related components will be

reviewed in this section along with the overview of the probes and
mixers washing processes.
Note: The following components are used for the probes and mixers
washing processes and were discussed with the WMU previously:
•• Internal probe wash water pump with damper
Sample and •• Sample and reagent valves, connections, or fittings are all different
Reagent •• +12VDC from AC/DC driver board
Syringes and
Valves •• Two-way sample and reagent valves
turn ON to direct degassed water
through to wash probes internally
•• 12VDC provided by the SIO Driver
Board to open valves
•• Common issues:
Erratic results/imprecision
Calibration or control failures
Leaks
Note: Syringe components will be reviewed later in this section.
Wash Cups •• Provide external probe and mixer cleaning
and Valves •• 12VDC from SIO Driver open valves for washing
process
•• M&D 4202 Wash Cup Test Procedure measures
water flow to all wash cups
Only the Sample Wash Cup water delivery has
an adjustable valve
Reagent and Mixer wash cup wash volumes
are checked but water flow is only based on
pump output and tubing size
Note: Obstructed or kinked tubing may decrease

water flow to the reagent probe or mixer wash
cups.
•• Valve adjustment is non-linear and water flow can be

fully restricted at extreme clockwise/ counterclockwise
adjustments
Ensure valve is locked when adjustment is completed
Note: Sample Wash Cup has built-in probe cleaning for whole
blood assays.
Internal Probe •• The Internal Probe Wash Pump and the 2-way sample and reagent
Wash valves turn ON to direct degassed water through to wash probes
internally.
•• Valves open when provided 12VDC from the SIO Driver Board
•• Degassed water is pumped through the syringe blocks, PM Sensors,
and out of the sample and reagent probes.
•• At the end of the probe wash cycle, the pump turns OFF and the
2-way valve closes when voltage is removed.
•• The sample 3-way valve directs a small amount of water to the water
bath overflow compartment to relieve pressure when the valve
closes.
External Probe •• RD30/NRD30 Water Pump recirculates WMU tank water when the
Wash instrument is ON to minimize contamination
Pump is Always ON when the instrument is ON
•• When the pump 3-way valve is:
Closed - Water circulates in a closed loop
Open - Water redirects to:
Cuvette washer nozzles and probe
Mixer wash cups
Fluidics Activity 1
Activity: Fluidics
Time: 60 minutes
Purpose: To practice performing procedures related to fluidics

components and maintenance
Service Tips:
•• Use all lubricant on water bath pump head tubing during
replacement and ensure tubing is installed without being twisted
•• During Wash Cup test, ensure:
Review M&D instructions prior to starting
Needle valve locking ring is loosened to adjust the valve and
secured after the adjustment
Actions: Perform the following procedures.
R&R I1.11 Water Bath Fill Pump Head Tubing
R&R I1.12 Water Bath Filter
P-4005 Degasser Canister Draining
M&D 4202 Wash Cup Test
M&D 4209 Internal Probe Wash Pump Test
Fluidics Cuvette Washer
Cuvette Washer
Clean cuvettes are critical for accurate assay processing, so an 8-step

cuvette washing process is used to clean and dry cuvettes.
•• The sample and reagent completed reaction is aspirated to an

HCW drain or optional HCW container.
•• Cuvettes are washed with diluted alkaline and acid wash solutions
and water rinsed twice.
•• Water is dispensed and used as a water blank reading, then the

cuvette is dried before the next sample is dispensed.
Additional cuvette washing fluidic-related components will be

reviewed in this section, along with the overview of the cuvette
washing process.
Note: The following components are used for the probes and mixers
washing processes and were discussed with the WMU previously.
•• RD 30 Water Pump
•• Degasser
Process Description
Wash Solution •• Dilutes alkaline and acid on-board reservoir solutions and pumps it to
Pump cuvette wash nozzles 2 and 3
•• Consists of:
Three 1mL syringes and check valves (blue)
Pump water to dilute alkaline and acid
Create a water blank for cuvette nozzle 6
Two micro syringes:
Aspirate and create dilution of alkaline and
acid solutions using degassed water from 1mL
syringes and 4 valves
•• Uses a 2-phase motor
24VDC provided by the SMD-Q-2 Board
Controlled by the SCM Board
•• 1mL syringes and check valves are customer replaceable
Cuvette Washer Fluidics
Process Description
Vacuum •• Located behind the onboard reservoir bottles
Pumps (VP)
(2) Note: The onboard reservoir bottle drawer must be removed to
see the vacuum pump.
•• SM AC/DC controller board controls applied 100VAC to the pumps by

the SIO driver board
•• Vacuum pumps remove cuvette
VP1 - Attached directly to the
cuvette dryer tip and provides final
drying
VP2 - Attached to a manifold and
removes LCW from cuvettes 2, 3, 4,
5, and 7
•• Pumps can be rebuilt or replaced
Cuvette •• The RD 30 Water Pump in the WMU pumps water in a re-circulating
Water Wash closed loop from the water tank to a three-way valve and back to the
tank
•• The 3-way valve and water are directed
to cuvette washer nozzles 1, 4 and 5.
Note: An adjustable needle valve is

positioned prior to the 3-way valve
and is used to set the cuvette wash
delivery volume.
•• Nozzle 6 dispenses degassed water used

for the cuvette water blank read.
Wash Solution Pump center 1ml syringe provides degassed water to
nozzle 6.
Fluidics Cuvette Washer
Process Description
Cuvette 2 and •• Wash Solution Pump dilutes the alkaline and acid solutions using
3 Alkaline degassed water
and Acid •• Four 3-way valves assist to distribute diluted alkaline and acid solutions
Washing to cuvette nozzles 2 and 3
Utilizes 4 valves: ALK1, ALK2, ACD1, ACD2
Four valves distribute the diluted solutions to nozzles for cuvette
washing or to move solution to waste
•• Wash Solution Pump down stroke moves:
Simultaneously:
Degassed water
from the Degasser
Unit to the two
1mL syringes
through check
valves mounted
at the top of
each syringe.
ALK1 and ACD1
valves turn on
(NC port is open,
NO is closed)
aspirating
undiluted alkaline
and acid solution
from the CABS
reservoir bottles
into the 2 micro
syringes.
The 1mL syringes with
degassed water
and small, measured
amounts of alkaline and acid solutions in the tubing lines create the
proper dilutions delivered to the cuvette washer nozzles.
•• Wash Solution Pump up stroke:
Valves ALK1 and ACD 1 turn off (NC port is closed, NO is open) and
valves ACD2 and ALK2 turn on (NC is open, NO is closed), allowing
the solutions to be pumped into the nozzles 2 and 3 of the cuvette
washer.
At the completion of the cycle, valves ALK2 and ACD2 turn off (NO
open, NC closed), and any remaining solution or air is directed to
the LCW tank through the valves normally open port.
Cuvette Washer Fluidics
Process Description
Cuvette Washer •• Cuvettes must be emptied and dried prior to a new sample
Waste and Drying dispense.
•• A dual headed vacuum pump (VP1 and VP2) is used to remove
the contents of the cuvettes when the nozzles are in the
cuvettes and to provide the final drying before they are used
again.
VP1 is attached directly to the cuvette dryer tip, nozzle 8 to
provide final drying in the 8-step process.
VP2 aspirates water (nozzles 4, 5, 7), diluted alkaline, and acid
wash solutions from the cuvettes (nozzles 2 and 3).
•• Vacuum pump contents are directed to the LCW tank.
Cuvette Washer •• Nozzle dispense uses an umbrella spray pattern to clean
Head and Nozzles •• Front row of tubing = green, striped tubing, aspirate lines
8-Step Washing
•• Back row tubing = dispense lines
Water dispense from nozzles 1, 4, 5, and 6
Nozzle(s) Function(s)
1 •• Aspirates HCW from cuvette via HCW pump
•• Dispenses reagent grade type II water into
cuvette
2 •• Delivers diluted alkaline and degassed water
from the Wash Solution Pump.
•• After the alkaline solution is dispensed into
the cuvette, it is aspirated through a vacuum
pump (VP2).
3 •• Delivers diluted acid and degassed water
from the Wash Solution Pump.
•• After the acid solution is dispensed into the
cuvette, it is aspirated through a vacuum
pump (VP2).
4 and 5 •• Dispenses water into the cuvette
•• Aspirates water through a vacuum pump
(VP2).
6 •• Provides degassed reagent grade type II
water from wash solution pump to fill the
cuvette to a certain level for blank read
(cuvette integrity check)
7 •• Performs an aspiration of the water blank.
8 •• Provides final cuvette drying via:
A porous cuvette drying tip
Aspiration of residual water via vacuum
pump (VP1)
Fluidics Waste Removal
Waste Removal

Overview > Fluidics > Low Concentration Waste and Drain.
Low Concentration Waste (LCW) Components

Component Function
LCW Tank and •• Located in the WMU and collects LCW then drains it out of the
Float Switch instrument
•• Collects waste from following areas:
Sample, R1, R2, Mixer 1 and 2 Probe Wash Cups
HCW Pump Overflow
Water Bath Overflow and Water Bath Waste Cup
ICT HCW Cup Overflow
Cuvette Washer LCW waste from VP2 and VP1
Reagent refrigerator condensation
•• Tank has a separate overflow port to an external overflow external
drain port
•• Common errors:
LCW tank tubing and elbow obstructions: microbial growth; remove
tank and clean with bleach
Note: Waste line microbial growth does not affect system

performance unless an obstruction occurs.
Full LCW errors: caused by dirty LCW float switch; clean with 0.5%
sodium hypochlorite to resolve
Waste Removal Fluidics
High Concentration Waste (HCW) Components

Overview > Fluidics > High Concentration Waste.
Caution: HCW may contain patient sample.
Component Function
HCW Pump •• Peristaltic style pump aspirates waste from cuvettes using cuvette
washer nozzle 1 then directs it to an external drain or an optional HCW
container
•• 2-phase motor 24VDC provided by the SMD-Q2
Controlled by the SMC board
•• Pump and tubing are replaceable
Ensure all lubricant is used during tubing replacement
Pump head and tubing are different than the Water Bath Fill
Pump
ICT Aspiration •• Aspirates HCW from a cuvette using a 1mL syringe and check valve
Pump and directs it to the ICT HCW Cup (an open-air box)
•• Moves the ICT HCW Cup contents to an external drain or HCW
optional container
Note: ICT HCW Cup tubing is label #11 and part of customer
maintenance.
Note: ICT aspiration pump components and additional function

of will be covered later in this section.
HCW Bottle •• Optional installed component used to collect HCW for labs requiring
the feature
•• Requires system configuration change for float switch monitoring
Fluidics Waste Removal
Liquid Waste Consolidation

Reference: Refer to Alinity i Service Documentation > 2-
Troubleshooting > Fluidics > Alinity c Standalone Waste.
Component Function
Liquid Waste •• Connections for all integrated ci-series modules:
Consolidation c-series processing modules - Collects pressurized high and low
Manifold concentration waste
i-series processing modules - Collects both gravity and pressurized
waste
•• The gravity drain remains separate from the pressure drains until it
reaches an atmospherically vented customer drain point or vented
external collection pump.
Note: Only the c-series will be discussed in this training.

•• Pressurized Waste:
High Concentration Waste (HCW)
HCW will be diverted to the HCW Bottle, if used
High Foaming Waste; currently, this is unused
•• Gravity Waste:
Low Concentration Waste Tank
Overflow Waste
•• All processing module tubing connects to a common SCM Waste
Manifold and is routed to the customers drain or external collection
pump
Waste Removal Fluidics
Fluidics Activity 2
Activity: Cuvette Wash, Syringes and Waste Removal
Time: 80 minutes
Purpose: Perform procedures related to cuvette washing, drying, and

troubleshooting.
Actions: Instructor Led Demonstration and/or Review
1. Locate the following vacuum pump procedure and review the

process and key points:
R&R F8.02 Vacuum Pump, diaphragm, sheet valve and O-ring
2. Is there an updated system ISA for the vacuum pump? If Yes, then
write the name and ISA number below.
______________________________________________________________
Note: Be sure to check the ISA database for any updated vacuum
pump-related procedures and information.
Actions: Perform the following key cuvette wash procedures:
Inspect wash head tubing for kinks/discoloration
M&D 4210 Cuvette Washer Test (perform all options)
1. Answer the questions below:

a. If you observed a single cuvette overflowing, what would you
suspect as the potential cause?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
b. If multiple cuvettes were observe overflowing, what would you

suspect as the potential cause?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Fluidics ICT Fluidics and Sample Progression
ICT Fluidics and Sample Progression
ICT Overview
ICT methodology uses solid state ion-selective electrodes contained in
a single chip (ICT module) and reduces maintenance.
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > General Data

> Fluidics Overview > ICT Aspiration Pump Fluidics and ICT
Reference Solution Pump Fluidics for this discussion.
ICT Fluidics and Sample Progression Fluidics
Component Function
ICT Module •• ICT (integrated chip technology) measures sodium (Na), potassium
(K), and chloride (Cl) simultaneously
Uses solid state ion-selective electrodes contained in a single chip
to reduce required maintenance
The ICT module manufacture date is determined from serial number
on the module as follows:
The table below shows how the ICT serial number breaks down.
100515042
10 05 15 042
Year made Month made Day made Sequence #
Note: ICT calibration curve slope for a newly installed ICT

module may be approximately 80–100.
ICT Modules expire 9 months from the manufacturing date on the

module.
Note: The ICT module warranty is 20,000 samples (60,000 test) or

3 months post installation, whichever occurs first.
•• Replace the module when:

Module is expired
ICT assay precision and/or QC is outside of laboratory requirements
Calibration slopes are <45
ICT Sample Processing

Overview > ICT Overview.
During ICT sample processing, the following events occur:
1. Sample and ICT sample diluent are dispensed into a cuvette.

Sample pipettor dispenses 15μL of sample into the cuvette
Reagent pipettor 1 dispenses 69μL ICT sample diluent (ICTD5)
and 276μL of water into the cuvette
Mixer 1 mixes the sample and diluent
Reaction carousel continues to rotate until cuvette aligns with
ICT unit approximately after 37 reaction carousel movements
2. Sample is analyzed.
ICT unit moves out and
down to position ICT probe
in the cuvette
ICT aspiration pump
Syringe #11 aspirates
cuvette contents into ICT
module
ICT module measures
sample
System converts
measurements into millivolt
readings used to calculate
sample results.
ICT pre-amp amplifies
signal
DAQ board converts reads
to a digital signal
CPU sends digital data to SCM UIC
SCM UIC calculates the final sample results using stored
calibration data
3. Waste is removed.
ICT aspiration pump Syringe #11 moves sample from ICT module
to HCW compartment
ICT aspiration pump Syringe #15 aspirates liquid waste from
HCW compartment and pushes it to the external waste drain or
optional HCW container
Component Function
ICT Reference •• Delivers and removes ICT reference solution (IREF) from ICT reference
(IREF) Solution solution cup (IREF cup)
Pump •• Consists of two syringes with orange check valves:
Syringe #12 (left side position)
Delivers ICT reference solution through water bath warming ring
and into IREF cup
Syringe #12 should be free of bubbles
Syringe #13 (center position)
Aspirates remaining solution from IREF cup and moves it into
water bath/waste overflow
Syringe #13 may normally contain bubbles
•• Pump is driven by a 24VDC motor
•• Delivery of ICT reference solution to the IREF Cup is checked when
instrument status changes from:
IDLE to RUNNING
Prior to sample analysis
After sample analysis
During M&D 5101 Flush ICT Reference Solution Cup
ICT Warming •• Warms IREF solution to 37°C before it fills IREF cup
Ring •• Holes in warming ring may impact voltage readings
Caution: Follow approved procedures for cleaning water bath to prevent
errors, warming ring holes, and ICT result issues.
IREF Cup & •• Contains preheated ICT reference solution aspirated by ICT probe and
Electrodes measured by ICT module
Contains two electrodes for capacitance level sensing
Ensure spatial arrangement of ICT LLS electrodes remains
unchanged to prevent ICT cup aspiration errors
Component Function
ICT Aspiration •• Used to aspirate sample or ICT Reference Solution into the ICT Module
Pump for measurement
•• Motor receives 24VDC from the SMD-Q-2 Board controlled by the SMC
board
•• Consists of two 1mL syringes
Syringe #11 (right syringe)
Syringe should be free of bubbles
Aspirates samples or ICT reference solution into ICT
module for measurement and pumps it into ICT
HCW Cup
Uses an electronic ICT aspiration or pinch 3-way
valve
−− Pinch valve directs fluid flow from ICT probe to
ICT HCW Cup (open air box)
Note: The ICT pinch tubing will need to be seated in the valve
during the installation process.
Ensure NO & NC tubing are placed in the correct positions to

prevent errors
Reference: Refer to Alinity c Service Documentation for proper

placement of NO and NC tubing locations to prevent errors.
Syringe #15 (left syringe)

Uses a check valve (orange)
Draws waste from ICT HCW Cup and pumps it out and out to
the HCW line through a check valve
•• Aspiration of ICT reference solution from IREF Cup is checked:
Prior to sample analysis
After sample analysis
During M&D 5102 Flush ICT Module
Component Function
IREF Level
Detect Board
•• Detects presence of IREF solution in IREF Cup by the electrodes

•• Contains two LEDs:
LED2: (top LED) Read Status
LED1: (bottom LED) Cup Full
•• IREF Level Detect LED Sequence:
Immediately before ICT assembly moves down and aspirates ICT
reference solution from cup:
LED 2 Read Status: flashes ON
LED1 ICT Reference Cup Full: flashes ON
Immediately after ICT assembly and pump aspirates IREF solution
from cup:
LED 2 Read Status: flashes ON
LED 1 ICT Reference Cup Full: remains OFF
ICT Diagnostics
Note: ICT Reference Solution Pump syringes are shown in opposite

order of proper instrument position (#12, 13, and empty from left to
right), Refer to IREF Pump photo reviewed on previous pages.
ICT Fluidics Activity
Activity: ICT Fluidics
Time: 60 minutes
Purpose: To practice procedures related to the ICT subsystems.
Service Tips:
•• Only hand-tighten the ICT Module to prevent errors.
•• Syringes on both ICT pumps should be free from bubbles on the left
side to prevent errors.
Actions: Perform the following;
R&R D2.03 Pump Pinch Valve, ICT Aspiration

R&R ICT Module (See the procedure in the Online Operations
Manual.)
Reference: See Alinity ci-series Operations Manual, Section 9.
M&D 5101 Flush ICT Reference Solution Cup

M&D 5102 Flush ICT Module
Actions: Remove the ICT aspiration tubing from the pinch valve, then
perform the following M&Ds.
1. ICT Diagnostics, M&D 5101 Flush ICT Reference Solution Cup
a. What error was generated?
___________________________________________________________
b. List below the components used in normal operation for this

M&D.
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
2. M&D 5102 Flush ICT Module
a. What error was generated?
___________________________________________________________
b. List below the components used in normal operation for this

M&D.
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
3. Reinstall pinch valve tubing and perform the following procedure

until the error is resolved:
M&D 5102, Flush ICT Module
Liquid Level Sense and Pressure Monitoring Fluidics
Liquid Level Sense and Pressure

Monitoring

LLS and Pressure Monitoring for this discussion.
Liquid level sense (LLS) and pressure monitoring (PM) are used to
detect liquid and ensure sample and reagent liquid aspirations occur
without error during assay processing.
•• LLS hardware is used to detect when the pipettor probe touches

liquid.
•• Pressure monitoring is performed during:

Aspiration
Dispense touches
Washing
Fluidics Liquid Level Sense and Pressure Monitoring
Liquid Level Sense Components
Note: Boards were reviewed in a previous module.

Component Function
CNN Board Generates the ±15 VDC that is used by the LLS Board to generate the LLS
signals
LLS Board •• Used to detect liquid surface contact by the Sample probe, R1 probe
and R2 probe
•• Receives amplified signal from pre-amp board and checks the signal
against a preset threshold
Probes •• Connected to a LLS Pre-Amp Board located in the head of each
pipettor
•• A 28-32kHz frequency is applied to the probes
•• Sample and reagent probes are different
LLS Pre-Amp Amplifies the LLS signal from the probe to the LLS Board
Board
SM AC/DC Receives the LLS signal from the LLS Board and uses the information to
Controller control pipettor movement
Board
LLS Signals and Detection

•• CNN Board provides ±15VDC to LLS board to generate LLS signals.
LLS Board LEDs and LED changes assist with component
troubleshooting and function.
•• LLS system applies a constant signal to the probes.
•• When the probe touches liquid, a signal change is detected and

the system begins to aspirate fluid.
Sample and reagent pipettors continue 2mm past the surface
of liquid once liquid is detected to attempt aspirations of only
liquid.
•• LLS signals are monitored throughout aspirations, and errors are

generated when changes are outside of specifications.
Note: LLS log data may be evaluated using LOG-ICAL.
•• LLS signals are monitored for any change after liquid is detected.
Pressure Monitoring Overview

Overview > LLS and Pressure Monitoring for this discussion.
Pressure Monitoring (PM) hardware is used to determine the correct

volume of liquid is aspirated, and clots, bubbles, or other interference is
absent during liquid aspiration.
PM is accomplished by placing a pressure transducer in the fluid

line between the syringe and probe, then analyzing whether liquid
aspiration conforms to a normal pattern.
Abnormal PM profiles will generate an aspiration error.
Pressure Monitoring Components
Note: PM Board was previously discussed.

Component Function
Pressure Sensor •• Contains a piezoresistive sensor and an internal preamplifier board
•• Field-replaceable part
•• Signals from fluid flow are sent to the Pressure Monitor board for
evaluation
•• Fluid flow is monitored by the PM system during probe aspirations,
dispense, and probe washes for detection of clots, foam, or bubbles
Note: Turn power off and use proper ESD when handling the
PM Sensor to prevent sensor damage.
Pressure
Monitor Board
Note: Boards were discussed in a previous module.
•• Pressure is monitored for the sample/reagent probes during:
Sample/Reagent aspiration and dispense
Internal probe wash cycle
•• PM data collected by the system reflects the fluid pressure in the
probes, tubing, syringes, and manifold
Note: The Sample, R1, & R2 syringes connect to an open

common manifold and components can induce errors. It is
recommended to troubleshoot any component attached to
the manifold to assist in a resolution.
Note: PM log data may be evaluated using LOG-ICAL.

•• Comparative pressure data are stored in software files on the SCM
UIC
•• M&D 4112 Pressure Monitor Test checks the pressure monitor
board and pressure monitor transducer for communications and
consistency
Component Function
Syringe Drives •• Provide aspiration and dispensing of sample and reagent
•• Sample (S) •• 24VDC 2-phase motor drives plunger up/down
•• Reagent 1 •• Only reagent syringe drive assemblies are interchangeable
(R1) •• Sample syringe block and internal components are different than the
•• Reagent 2 R1 and R2 syringe block
(R2) •• O-rings and seal tips are replaced during customer quarterly
maintenance
Pressure Monitoring Diagnostics

•• Analog electrical signals flow from the PM sensor to the PM Board
located in the Card Cage.
•• Analog signals are converted into digital signals on the PM Board.

(Digital signals are also routed from the LLS Board to the PM Board.)
•• An LLS error will also generate an accompanying PM error. This

is because the LLS error halts processing for the aspiration event,
which results in an abnormal pressure signal for the aspiration.
•• The PM Board firmware determines if the pressure signal from the

transducer is within the threshold specifications for an aspiration,
dispense, or probe rinse.
•• The PM Board sends and receives data from the CPU.
LLS and Pressure Monitoring Errors Description

LLS Error Descriptions
•• “Liquid Not Found” – Error generated when Pipettor travels to lower

step limit without detecting liquid.
•• “Liquid Contact Broken for X Pipettor” – Error generated when

(after liquid detection and aspiration into the probe) the LLS
circuitry detects a phase change, due to the loss of liquid (prior to
dispense).
•• Crash Sensor is activated as Pipettor steps down to detect liquid.
•• “Liquid Too High for X Pipettor” – Error generated when LLS circuitry
detects fluid at a step position that is higher than top of the cup.
•• “Liquid Too Low for X Pipettor” – Error generated when air is

detected during aspiration.
PM Error Descriptions
•• Unable to process test, aspiration or dispense error
•• Unable to initialize run/ initialize run, wash error occurred
•• Unable to process test, aspiration or dispense error at a pipettor

and position
•• Unable to process test, wash error occurred at a pipettor & position
•• Unable to process test, internal wash pressure error at a pipettor
•• Unable to process test, reagent 1 or 1 aspiration error occurred
Liquid Level Sense and Pressure Monitoring Activities
Activity: LLS and PM Troubleshooting Procedures
Time: 30 minutes
Purpose: Practice fluidics-related maintenance and troubleshooting

procedures
Actions:
1. Perform ONLY one of the following customer maintenance
procedures that can assist with troubleshooting resolution:
M&D 5801 Sample Syringe Maintenance
M&D 5802 Wash Syringe Maintenance
M&D 5803 Reagent Syringe Maintenance
P-4020 LLS Voltage Adjustment
2. Write your answers to the following LLS function and troubleshooting

questions.
a. If both R1 pipettor LLS LEDs are OFF, what would be the most
probable cause?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
b. If 2 pipettor LEDs are ON but not flashing when contacting

liquid, what would you troubleshoot?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
c. List troubleshooting procedures to use to troubleshoot when all

LLS board LEDs are OFF.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
3. Check and record below the LLS frequency at sample or reagent

probe.
Sample: _____________________
R1: __________________________
R2: __________________________
4. Perform M&D 4205 Flush Water Lines.
Troubleshooting Summary Fluidics
Hardware Symptoms/Errors Procedures/References
WMU •• Incoming water errors •• Clean LCW tank float switch
•• LCW tank •• Low concentration •• R&R water bath fill tubing, valve
•• Water Bath Fill waste tank full •• Check inlet water quality
pump •• Water bath fill errors
•• Inlet on/off •• DI tank failed to fill
valve
•• Cuvette Washer •• Assay imprecision •• P-4009 Cuvette Washer Alignment
•• Cuvette Wash •• Improper washing •• M&D 4209 Cuvette Washer Test
Pumps •• Leaking and dripping •• M&D 4208 Pump/Valves Test
•• Wash Solution nozzle •• R&R D7.06 Cuvette Drying Tip
Pump •• Cuvette overflow •• R&R D5.03 Valve, Wash Solution
•• Discolored streaks or •• Replace nozzles
chips on dryer tips
Note: Dryer Tip damage is
mostly likely due to Cuvette
Washer mis-alignment
•• Sample/ •• Assay imprecision •• Replace and/or calibrate probe
Reagent Probes •• LLS errors •• M&D 4202 Wash Cup Test
•• Wash Cups •• Pressure monitoring errors •• M&D 4102 Sample Pipettor
•• Needle Valves •• Pipettor calibration Calibration
failure •• M&D 4105 Sample Probe and
•• Low water volume or no Rack Alignment Test
water to wash cups •• M&D 5801 Sample Syringe
Maintenance
•• M&D 5803 Reagent Syringe
Maintenance
Fluidics Troubleshooting Summary
ICT Fluidics
ICT Aspiration •• ICT Ref Solution Not •• M&D 5102 Flush ICT Module
Pump Aspirated error •• M&D 4208 Pump/Valves Test
•• ICT assay result •• P-4010 ICT Alignment
imprecision,
calibration failure
•• ICT assay calibration
failure
ICT Reference •• Bubbles in syringe •• M&D 5101 Flush ICT Reference
Solution Pump #12 and/or ICT cup Solution Cup
fill errors •• M&D 4208 Pump/Valves Test
•• Erratic ICT results •• M&D 5804 Replace 1mL Syringes
•• IREF cup overflow •• Inspect/replace check valve
ICT Result •• Unable to calculate •• ICT module cable failure or loose
Troubleshooting results, ICT Reference connection
Solution voltage drift •• ICT Preamp board failure
errors
•• M&D 5101 Flush ICT Reference
•• Unable to calculate Solution Cup
results, mV reading
outside measurable •• M&D 5102 Flush ICT Module
range of ICT
assembly
Review Fluidics
Review
Time: 10 minutes
1) Which pump is used to create diluted alkaline and acid solutions?
2) Complete the table below by describing the function of each

component.
Component Description or Function

Water Bath Fill
Pump
Internal Probe
Wash Pump
#12 syringe
3) List the three areas or components to which degassed water is

supplied by the degasser.
Optics
6 Optics
Learning Objectives
•• Identify the physical location and function of optics system

components
•• Perform key component R&R and verification procedures for optics

systems
root causes of optic control system failures
Topics
•• Optics System Overview
•• Optics System Components
•• Optics Photometric Sample Processing
•• Review
Optics Optics System Overview
Optics System Overview

Overview > Optics.
The optical system is a reaction cuvette direct photometry system.
•• Directs and aligns the light from the source lamp, through the water
bath and cuvette, and then into the optics assembly
•• The Alinity c can take monochromatic (single wavelength) and
bi-chromatic (dual wavelength) measurements at 16 different
wavelengths.
Optics System Components Optics
Optics System Components
Optics Housing
Component Description
1. Lamp and •• Provides photometric measurement light source

housing •• Requires 11.45VDC from PS4
The tungsten halogen lamp is rated at 12VDC, 20W and must
be obtained from Abbott
Lamp voltage check should be performed at lamp terminal
block
•• Lamp is always ON when instrument is ON
•• Life expectancy rated at 90 days of use, 2000 hours (refer to
Quarterly Maintenance and operations manual)
•• Lamp is customer replaceable
2. Heat Glass •• Protects the convex lens from heat distortion
•• Replaceable and can be cleaned
Filter has no specific orientation when replaced
Note: Over time, the lamp’s heat may create faint brown
spots on the heat glass that may impact some assays or
cause cuvette integrity errors.
3. Convex Lens •• Focuses the light beam from the lamp, through the cuvette,
(2) and to the optics diffraction grating for absorbance readings
4. Water Bath •• Separates and seals lamp and optics assembly from water bath
Lens •• Replaceable and cleaned with lens paper and Detergent A
5. Cuvette •• Cuvettes are checked for integrity prior to adding the sample
and Cuvette Results are used in the final result calculation
Segment
•• Cuvettes are permanently sealed into the segment and are
customer replaceable as a single segment
Note: Function previously discussed in Robotics module.
Optics Optics System Components
Component Description
6. Optical •• Monitors positional flags on cuvette segments and signals DAQ
Trigger board when cuvette is positioned in front of the Optics for a
Sensor read
•• Resets Optics wavelength gains and cuvette read offset values
at the beginning of the RUNNING status
•• Sensor is replaceable
Mounting bracket MUST be reused; it is NOT reorderable
7. Diffraction •• Breaks the light beam into 16 wavelengths and reflects the light
Grating onto a photodiode array
8. Linear •• Detects and measures changes in light intensity

Photodiode •• Sends signal to the optics pre-amp board
Array
9. Optics Pre- •• Converts optical signal to a voltage (0-5V), amplifies signal, and
Amp Board sends to DAQ board
10. DAQ Board •• Receives photometric data from the optics preamp board,
quantifies and converts optical signals to a digital format, then
sends data to the CPU
Note: Boards were reviewed previously.

11. CPU Board •• Receives DAQ photometric data and sends it directly to the UIC
for final result processing
Note: Boards were reviewed previously.

12. SCM UIC •• Performs the data reduction and result calculation
Note:
Computer
Component was previously reviewed in the
Electronic Circuitry learning module.
Cuvette Wipers •• Remove debris and bubbles from cuvettes prior to optical reads
•• Replaceable, as needed
Optics Photometric Sample Processing Optics
Optics Photometric Sample Processing

This section outlines the optics processes used during an assay run. The
next sections outline the components involved.
Beginning of a run: Assemblies home
During system initialization, the system briefly pauses to perform:

a. Gain checks for each wavelength and the DAQ board lamp
light intensity adjustment
Reads taken through washed cuvettes
Intensity decreases and the gain increases as the lamp ages
b. Background, dark voltage reads
Performed by placing the lamp light beam on the cuvette
segment spokes to block light into the optics assembly
Read provides stray light and electrical noise data used in
final result calculation
Note: When the reaction carousel is homed and the instrument is

performing the 4.0 second lock step wait, the cuvette spoke blocks
the light path.
c. Trigger check
Detects the cuvette positional flag or tab at the trailing
edge
Determines the Optics cuvette edge for optimal timing and
position of cuvette reads
Note: The trigger offset is the time (in milliseconds) it takes the
trigger sensor to detect the cuvette tab trailing edge to the time
of the optimal cuvette read point. The offset value is used to
determine when to take optical readings for individual cuvettes as
they pass by the optics.
d. Cuvette integrity check on each cuvette

Reads are taken through the cuvettes containing degassed
water
Note: Nozzle 6 dispenses degassed water for the cuvette blank

reading.
Reads serve as a blank and are used in final result

calculation for results with a passing specification
Failed cuvette integrity readings generate an error code
and display the cuvette number
Optics Optics Photometric Sample Processing
Lamp Monitoring
•• Monitors the lamp energy during a run to ensure stability and

generate errors when lamp unacceptable fluctuations are
detected
Minimizes generation of aberrant results caused by normal lamp
degradation
Reads are taken during the cuvette blank reading
•• Reads are bi-chromatic calculations of absorbance data taken at

340nm and 380nm
•• Lamp readings are analyzed against recent lamp data and

compared to the predefined threshold in the system software
parameters
•• Optics errors 4403 and 4404 are generated when the reads are
outside of specifications
4403 (optics system warning, fluctuation detected)
Lamp abnormal fluctuation is detected
Current run is allowed to complete but additional sample
aspirations are prevented by placing the system into PAUSED
4404 (optics system failure, fluctuation detected)
Extreme lamp fluctuations were detected so the system
status is changed to STOPPED and all samples in process go
to EXCEPTIONS
•• Lamp monitoring lamp errors may be due to:

Lamp failure - instability
Debris/bubbles in the water bath
Dirty cuvettes
During a Sample Run
•• The reaction carousel rotates counter clockwise to position the

cuvettes for photometry and other processing functions.
•• The trigger sensor signals the DAQ board that a cuvette is in the
light path and in position for an optical read.
•• Light passes through the cuvette onto the diffraction grating in the
optics assembly.
Diffraction grating breaks the beam into 16 wavelengths and
reflects the light onto a photo diode array.
Photo diode array detects and measures changes in the light
intensity.
Photo diode array signal is sent to the preamp board where it is
converted to a voltage and amplified.
Preamp board sends the signal to the DAQ board in the card
cage.
DAQ board optimizes the signal and sends it to the CPU board.
CPU sends the optimized signal to the UIC where the results
are compared to stored calibration data and final result
calculations are performed.
After Sample Processing
•• The cuvette washer removes the reaction mixture to waste and

cleans the cuvette using the 8-step cleaning process.
Cuvette fluidics was reviewed earlier in the Fluidics module of
this training guide.
•• If additional sample analysis is not requested, the R1 probe will

dispense water into the cuvette to keep it hydrated to prevent
damage.
Optics Activities
Activity: Optics Procedures
Time: 45 minutes
Purpose: To gain competency in performing optics procedures used in

maintenance and troubleshooting
Service Tips:
•• The beam height alignment is done to optimally align the reaction
carousel to the optics assembly when running low volume assays.
•• Wear gloves when handling the lamp to prevent damage.
•• Cuvettes are replaceable only as a segment.
•• A run must be performed to generate cuvette integrity results.
Displayed cuvette integrity or blank readings are the results
obtained from the last cuvette blank.
Action: Instructor-led review of:
M&D 4003 Optics Total Test and ICT Data - Perform only the options
listed below:
Lamp Gain
Noise
Action: Perform the following key procedures:
M&D 4004 Beam Height Alignment
M&D 4001 Optics Trigger Sensor Check
M&D 4005 Cuvette Integrity Test
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > Troubleshooting

and Diagnostics > Procedures > Maintenance and Diagnostics List.
1. If the instrument is stopped and contaminated cuvettes are in

the reaction carousel, what procedure would be required before
performing a sample run? ____________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
2. List two possible causes of all wavelengths showing a gain value of

4.0 when M&D 4003 Optics Total Test and ICT Data is performed.
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Activity: Optics Service Scenario and AST Tools
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: To begin developing optics-related troubleshooting plans

using service documentation and AST Tools
Action: Read the scenario and answer the questions below.
The lab supervisor at Alpha-Omega Reference Labs calls the Support

Center for samples intermittently going to Exceptions for the past five
days due to “4403 Optics System Warning, Fluctuation Detected.“ The
operator completed the following troubleshooting with the Support
Center but the error continues intermittently:
•• Replaced lamp and checked cables
•• Replaced and calibrated both reagent probes
•• Replaced dryer tip
•• Performed the following procedures:

M&D 5003 Clean Cuvettes Manually
M&D 5501 Daily Maintenance
1. What checks, measurements, procedures, etc. would you use to

help isolate the cause of the failure? __________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
(continued on next page)
2. Refer to the Ticket Code Tool to find the best ticket codes if the
Degasser was replaced to remove bubbles to resolve the 4403 error
code.
a. Work Done Code: ______________________________________
b. Action Taken Code: _____________________________
c. Reason for Action Code: ________________________
Troubleshooting Summary Optics
Cuvettes, Cuvette •• Assay imprecision •• M&D 5910 Wash Cuvettes

Segments •• Cuvette integrity errors •• M&D 5003 Clean Cuvette
•• Optics fluctuations (Error Manually
codes 4403 and/ or 4404) •• M&D 4005 Cuvette
•• Cuvette tab not detected Integrity Test
•• Damaged cuvette wipers •• Check cuvettes and

segments for damage
Lamp, Optics •• Assay imprecision •• Assay precision run

•• Optics intensity errors •• Verify lamp voltage
•• Optics fluctuations (Error •• M&D 4003 Optics Total Test
codes 4403 and/ or 4404) and ICT Data
•• Cuvette integrity error •• M&D 4005 Cuvette
•• Low 11.5VDC error Integrity Check
•• Observe lamp and cover
are correctly seated
•• Replace optics heat glass
Trigger Sensor •• Trigger check error •• M&D 4001 Optics Trigger

•• Cuvette integrity error Sensor Check
•• Cuvette tab not detected •• M&D 4003 Optics Total Test

and ICT Data
•• Check Cuvette Washer
(Nozzle 6)
Optics Review
Review
Time: 10 minutes
1) What is the purpose of the trigger sensor?

¾¾ Answer:
2) Lamp monitoring occurs during the cuvette blank read. True or

False (Circle one)
3) Which optical components are replaceable?

a) Optics lamp
b) Photodiode Array
c) Optics Pre-Amp Board
d) Cuvette segment
¾¾ Answer:
4) What is the power source for the lamp voltage?

¾¾ Answer:
Temperature Control
7 Temperature Control
Learning Objectives
•• Identify the physical location and function of components

associated with temperature control
•• Perform key Remove & Replace and verification procedures for

temperature control components
root causes of temperature control system failures
Topics
•• Temperature Control Overview
•• Water Bath Temperature Control System Components
•• Reagent Supply Center Cooler Unit
•• Review
Temperature Control Temperature Control Overview
Temperature Control Overview

Overview > Temperature Control and Temperature Diagrams.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is the ability to both monitor a temperature and

provide feedback to adjust that temperature to maintain a desired set
point. Signals are sent to initiate heating or cooling, depending on the
system.
Temperature controlled areas include the:

•• Water Bath (heater)
•• Reagent Supply Center (self-contained internal process)
Temperature Monitoring
Temperature monitoring involves reading a temperature for reporting

purposes without the means to adjust that temperature. Temperature
signals are converted to a readable format for display to the user.
Temperature monitored areas include the:

•• Ambient temperature
•• Reagent carousel lid heaters
The following are areas where temperature is monitored and/or

controlled for recovery within a specified range.
SM AC/DC
Actual
Area Thermistor Controller
Temp Range Temperature
Monitored Location Displayed Temp
Adjustment
Adjustment
Reagent 2–10°C Bottom of N/A N/A
Supply Reagent
Center Carousel area
Water Bath 36.8–37.2°C Bottom of Water VR2 TBC Bd
(see Note below) Bath
Ambient 15–30°C WMU VR1 N/A
Note: Field service adjustment is to 36.9-37.1°C.

Note: Ambient temperature is related to the lab surrounding
environment.
Temperature Control Overview Temperature Control
Component Function
Ambient •• Located in the WMU area to monitor internal instrument temperature
Thermistor •• Temperature specification 15°–30°C
•• SM AC/DC Controller; VR1 adjustment potentiometer adjusts display
temperature only
•• Replaceable
Temperature Control Water Bath Temperature Control System Components
Water Bath Temperature Control System

Components
The water bath heater and circulation pump are responsible for
circulating heated water (37°C) to the water bath and ICT module
holder/jacket.
Water temperature is monitored with the Water Bath Temperature

Sensor located in the bottom of the Water Bath.
Water Bath Temperature Control System Components
Component Function
Heater and •• Located in the Water Management Unit
Control •• Heats degassed DI water supplied to the Water Bath to 37°C ±0.2°C
Thermistor
•• Controlled from Thermal Bath Controller (TBC)
board, located in the driver box
•• Thermistor located in the side of the Heater
Canister
Voltage ramps up and down as heat to
maintain bath temperature
Water bath heater is turned OFF any time the float switch detects
a low water level condition
•• Heater and Thermistor are replaceable
Water Bath •• Located at bottom of Water Bath to monitor bath temperatures
Monitor •• Temperature specification: 37°C ±0.2°C
Thermistor
•• Temperatures outside 36.8°–37.2°C signals SM AC/DC Controller
Board to generate errors
•• Temperature reported to the SM AC/DC Controller; VR2 adjustment
potentiometer adjusts display temperature only
•• Replaceable
RD20/ •• Located in WMU and provides circulation of heated water
NRD20 Pump •• Is ON constantly when the water bath float switch
(Water bath indicates full
circulation
pump) •• 24VDC power from TBC board
•• Control: SM AC/DC controller board
•• Replaceable
Water Bath Temperature Control System Components Temperature Control
Component Function
Temperature •• Located in the Driver Box
Bath Controller •• Controls actual water bath temperature
Board (TBC)
•• Provides 24VDC to RD20/NRD20 circulating pump
•• Provides 100VAC to water bath heating element
•• Feedback control through heater control thermistor
•• Contains two LEDs to indicate status of heater
CPU CMD LED:2
Displays ON/OFF signal status from CPU
Heater LED: 1
ON when heater is activated
Dims when temperature is constant and temperature control
stabilized
•• Contains two switches to adjust the water temperature in the water
bath.
Note: Water Bath temperature may be influenced by lab

environment; adhering to the instrument site specification is
important.
Temperature Control Reagent Supply Center Cooler Unit
Reagent Supply Center Cooler Unit
Component Function
Thermoelectric •• Cools reagent supply center assay reagents to 2-10°C
Devices (TEDs) •• Control: Cooler Controller Board
(8)
•• Power: PS5 and PS8 provide 12VDC for the TEDs
•• TEDs are not individually replaceable. Replace entire cooling unit.
Note: Instrument temperature errors can be caused by TED or

control board failure.
Circulation •• Pump circulates cooling fluid between reagent carousel container
Pump and Cooler Unit
•• Control: Cooler Controller Board
•• Power: 12VDC provided by PS8
•• Replaceable
Temperature •• Detects Reagent Supply Center air temperature and send signal to
Detector (2) Cooler Controller Board
•• Mounted inside the Reagent Supply Center
•• Replaceable
Fans (2) and •• 12VDC fans remove hot air exhaust from TEDs
Filters (2) •• Filters are cleaned as needed
Heat Exchange •• Coated aluminum plate where liquid antifreeze/coolant is circulated

Block by a pump
Reagent Supply Center Cooler Unit Temperature Control
Component Function
Reagent •• Contains float sensor and signals sent to Cooler Controller Board
Coolant Bottle •• Coolant is Abbott customized propylene glycol
solution added during installation,
topped off annually, or as needed
Note: Coolant formulated for Abbott; must be

purchased from Abbott.
Reagent •• Cover heaters are placed around the two reagent aspiration holes
Carousel Lid •• Prevents condensation from forming around the opening
Heaters (2)
Minimize probe/reagent contamination due to condensation drips
•• Monitored by Cooler Controller Board
•• Replaceable
Temperature Control Reagent Supply Center Cooler Unit
Temperature Control Activities
Activity: Water Bath Temperature Control
Time: 30 minutes
Purpose: To familiarize participants with water bath service procedures.
Service Tips:
•• Displayed Water Bath and Ambient temperatures are adjustable
on the SM AC/DC Controller.
•• Water in the bath is circulated when the float switch indicates full.
Actions: Perform the following diagnostic procedures:

M&D 4301 Temperature Status
P-4017 Water Bath Temperature Detector Adjustment
P-4018 Water Bath Heater Adjustment
1. If the water bath temperature in the maintenance menu was

displaying 37.5°C, what corrective actions, if any, would you
perform?
____________________________________________________________
2. If the water bath temperature in the maintenance menu was

displaying 35.0°C, and the instrument was displaying a water
bath temperature error, what corrective action, if any, would you
perform?
____________________________________________________________
Reagent Supply Center Cooler Unit Temperature Control
Activity: Cooler Unit
Time: 15 minutes
Purpose: Review installation, PM, and diagnostic procedures to

evaluate the Cooler Unit.
Service Tips:
•• Use only the specific Cooler Unit Coolant to prevent errors and
component damage.
•• Coolant is formulated for Abbott and must be obtained from

Abbott.
•• The Cooler coolant fluid line should be free from bubbles.
•• The Reagent Supply temperature is NOT adjustable
•• Coolant line MUST be free of air bubbles
Actions: Only review the following procedures:

P-4053 Coolant Fill
P-4052 Coolant Refill
1. When would you add Cooler Unit coolant?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
2. What location is used to add coolant during instrument installation?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
3. What is the part number for the Cooler Unit Coolant?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
4. List high cost parts for the cooling system.
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
Temperature Control Troubleshooting Summary
Water Bath Heater •• Water bath temperature •• Cycle system power
high/low errors •• Observe operation
•• Water bath float switch dirty, Look for water circulation
mis-seated, or failed
•• M&D 4301 Temperature Status
•• Instrument not leveled
•• P-4018 Water Bath Heater
•• Failed heater assembly or Adjustment
component
•• M&D 4802 Robotics Test Tool >
•• Mis-adjusted temperature Water Bath drain/fill
bath controller board
•• Verify environment allows air
flow
Reagent Supply •• Reagent supply center •• M&D 4301 Temperature Status
Center Cooler Unit temperature high •• Observe operation
•• Verify drain tubing is not kinked
or obstructed
•• P-4052 Coolant Refill
•• P-4053 Coolant Fill
Review Temperature Control
Review
Time: 10 minutes
1) Complete the table below.
Power Source (PS

Device Voltage
or Board)
Thermoelectric Devices (TEDs)
Water Bath Heater Pump
Water Bath Assembly Heating

Element
2) The water bath heater assembly is responsible for heating

and supplying 37°C water to the ____________________
and the _______________________.
3) What components are replaceable only on the cooling unit

assembly?
Installation and Integration
8 Installation and Integration
Learning Objectives
•• Review ISA for maintenance recommendations and Total Call

procedures
•• Review the Alinity SCM (ci) series Pre-site Installation ISA and
Checklist
•• Summarize the Alinity c installation procedure
•• Review the current list of Alinity c and SCM ISAs, common ISAs, and
TSBs
•• Highlight the Alinity ci-series multimodule-specific components and

installation and integration process
•• Perform activities associated with the Alinity ci-series multimodule

installation and integration
Topics
•• Software Installation
•• Instrument Installation
•• Multimodule Integration
•• Review
Installation and Integration Software Installation
Software Installation
Abbott trained Field Personnel must install the Alinity User Interface
(UI) Software during instrument installation. The latest version of the
Software, provided by the Alinity Software group, may include the
OPK (Outside Equipment Manufacturer Preinstallation Kit) for a new
computer. See the latest revision of the TSB.
•• The UIC software must be initially downloaded from the GSS

Instrument Updates portal and can be reused for multiple
installations.
•• Abbott trained Service Personnel should order 2 or 3 blank,

formatted, Abbott USB Flash Drives, USB 3.0, 32GB for dedicated use
on Alinity and available to:
Capture screen data and/or logs
Store Alinity software to install on the UIC
Use for other service needs
Reference: Refer to the Alinity ci SCM TSB most current Alinity

System Software Installation for instructions on downloading Alinity
software to a USB.
Additional Software (As Needed)

•• Alinity Base Configuration Software: Pre-installed on all shipped
Alinity UIC.
Installation of Base Configuration software is necessary only to
repair corrupt Windows operating system.
The Base Configuration software is provided on a secure,
serialized, pre-programmed USB drive.
Note: The secured USB default pin code is in ISA 214-003 Alinity ci-
series General Information> Alinity ci-series Software & Distribution.
Software Installation Installation and Integration
•• Embedded Controller Software: Pre-installed on all Alinity i and

Alinity SCM instruments and Embedded Controller spare parts.
Installation of Embedded Controller software is only necessary
to repair corrupt Embedded Computer software.
The Embedded Controller Software is ordered as a pre-
programmed, unsecured USB drive.
Note: Country service organizations determine how to distribute

and stock the USB drives to meet service area needs.
Installation and Integration Instrument Installation
Instrument Installation
Pre-Site Inspection and Checklist

Reference: Refer to current ISA 214-001 Alinity ci-series Pre-site
Interview and Inspection.
The Pre-Site Interview and Inspection Checklist contains the system

requirements that must be met prior to instrument installation or
whenever the system is relocated. These requirements include
verifying:
•• Environmental specifications
•• Facility space specifications
•• Water specification
•• Electrical specifications
Note: The processing module transformer incoming current is

relatively large. The lab circuit breaker may trip when the Alinity
c processing module is turned ON if the lab’s circuit breaker
specifications are outside of the required specifications.
Reference: Refer to KM article K77103320 Lab circuit breaker trips

when powering On the Alinity c processing module.
Instrument Install
Reference: Refer to current ISA 210-001 Alinity c Installation

Procedure.
The Installation Procedure and Checklist contains procedures required

to unpack, setup and verify instrument performance. Follow the
procedure/checklist for efficiency and proper sequence.
Instrument Installation Installation and Integration
Installation Activity
Activity: Installation PVT
Time: 30 minutes
Purpose: To perform and evaluate the instrument installation PVT

procedure and evaluate results used to ensure proper performance of
the Alinity c.
Note: Manufacturing is required to perform and pass PVT

acceptance criteria prior to shipping new instruments; then,
service confirms manufacturing results and shipping processes
during the system installation PVT verification procedure.
Actions: Perform the following basic operations activities and

instrument installation PVT-specific actions and steps using ISA 210-001/
current version Alinity c Installation Procedure; Operation Qualification
- Performance Verification Testing (PVT).
Note: Refer to the Basic Operations Flowchart in the Appendix of this

training guide, as needed.
1. Verify the calibration status of AST, ALKP, TP, and ICT assays and
calibrate any assays, as required.
2. Perform a manual backup. (Refer to online operations manual.)
3. Create a patient order for all PVT assays so they are in 20 separate
rack positions.
Note: Follow your instructor’s direction about any activity revisions.
4. Load control level 2 into 20 separate rack positions.
5. Load racks into RSM and start the run.
6. Print results.
(Continued on next page)
Installation and Integration Instrument Installation
7. Record and evaluate results in the table below.
Difference
Assay High Low (High - Pass/Fail
Low)
AST
ALKP
TP
Na
CI
•• Did assays meet acceptance criteria? Yes / No (Circle one)
Multimodule Integration Installation and Integration
Multimodule Integration
Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > Installation,

Removal and Relocation Documents, and c-series/SCM ISAs and
TSBs.
Multimodule Integration Installation Activity
Instructor-led Activity: Review of Integration Installation
Video: Training videos are intended for class instruction only and
SHOULD NOT BE DISTRIBUTED.
Time: 25 minutes
Purpose: To review the Alinity multimodule ci-series summary of

installation integration processes.
Actions: Open the following procedures and refer to them during the
video review:
Alinity c Module Installation Procedure
Alinity i Module Installation Procedure
Alinity ci-series multimodule installation and integration
procedure
Reference: Refer to ISA 210-001 Alinity c installation Procedure.
Action: Review related Alinity multimodule installation integration key

points.
The classroom video and installation review will include only new
information. It will exclude the installation service tasks related
to the RSM and transport activities that were completed in the
Robotics learning module.
Installation and Integration Multimodule Integration
Service Tips:
•• Follow the service procedure M&Ds in the order written to prevent

errors and damage.
•• The SCM module leveling feet are lowered for stability after the
workcell is integrated.
•• The instrument leveling feet are secured tight to the floor only after
the Alinity ci-series modules are integrated.
Action: Review the following components and their location at the

instrument:
•• Alinity c Module
Bubble level placement
Chain Rail component
•• Alinity ci-series SCM Module

Articulated Arm lift adjustment screw
SCM Main Power Supply 12 Amp circuit breaker
•• Alinity i Module
Bubble level replacements
Chain Rail component
Review Installation and Integration
Review
Time: 5 minutes
1) Where can you locate the instructions for software and database
recovery and reinstallation?
__________________________________________
2) Is it acceptable to enter the instrument serial numbers manually

during the instrument install? Yes / No (circle one)
Lab Practical and Final Exam
9 Lab Practical and Final Exam
Learning Objective
•• Demonstrate knowledge, competencies, and skills applicable to

Alinity c field service through written and practical assessments
Topics
•• Overview of Lab Practical and Final Exam
•• Final Exam
•• Lab Practical
Lab Practical and Final Exam Overview of Lab Practical and Final Exam
Overview of Lab Practical and Final Exam

You will perform the following independent activities at the instrument
using available service tools:
•• Perform troubleshooting based on the direction of the certified

instrument trainer
•• Complete the exam in the Learning Management System (LMS)
You will need to successfully and independently complete both these

activities for instrument certification.
Note: Your instructor will observe your use of tools and resources
and provide you with feedback, as needed.
Final Exam
Activity: Final Exam
Time: 60 minutes
Action: Access and complete the Exit Exam and Course Survey in the
LMS.
Note: You will complete the knowledge assessment while awaiting

your turn to complete the hands-on, troubleshooting lab practical.
9-2 Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only |80001189-102
Lab Practical Lab Practical and Final Exam
Lab Practical
Activity: Troubleshooting Lab Practical
Time: 210 minutes
Purpose: The troubleshooting lab practical is designed for you to

demonstrate your knowledge of the instrument, service processes,
documents, and tools to service the instrument effectively.
To pass the lab practical, you are required to independently

demonstrate the following basic practices:
Use service documentation (KM, Service and Support resources,

diagrams, assay inserts, instrument software reports, error codes,
and data) and tools (test equipment, and alignment tools)
appropriately.
Identify and evaluate normal versus abnormal system conditions.
Locate system components and use proper terminology.
Resolve basic error situations independently or with minimal

instructor guidance.
Use effective and logical troubleshooting methods to resolve

unknown error conditions.
Demonstrate basic customer interaction (ASE) skills.
Actions: Initialize the instrument and perform M&D 5501 Daily

Maintenance.
•• If an error is detected or displayed, or an abnormal observation

occurs, then resolve each occurrence.
•• Use effective troubleshooting (STEP) and AST tools.

Observe system performance.
Make comparisons.
Perform procedures.
Gather data/information.
Perform the repair.
Discussion: Be prepared to share your troubleshooting process with the

instructor, including how you arrived at the solution. The instructor will
provide a class assessment and recommendations post completion.
Lab Practical and Final Exam Lab Practical
9-4 Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only |80001189-102
Appendix - Additional Handouts and Information
Appendix - Additional
A Handouts and Information
[This page intentionally left blank.]
Alinity c-series Field Service Training | Global Service Training | 80001189-102 A-1
Daily Cadence: Field Service
A-2 Alinity c-series Field Service Training | Global Service Training | 80001189-102
Effective Troubleshooting
Effective troubleshooting and problem resolution requires four logical
STEPs. STEPs is a model to help troubleshoot new or unfamiliar situations.
1. STOP: Identify the problem
2. THINK: Gather information/data/clues

Look for comparison (what is working versus what is not working)
Categorize failure
Analyzer: Refer to instrument hardware and software
problems which can interfere or influence generation of
correct results (pFORT):
−− Power
−− Fluidics
−− Optics
−− Robotics
−− Temperature
Operator: Refer to human-associated interventions which
can interfere with correct result generation such as:
−− Improper sample type for analysis
−− Improper sample loading or handling
−− Bubbles present in reagent or sample
Reagent: Refer to problems with Reagent, Calibrators and/or
Controls such as:
−− Improperly stored products
−− Expired reagent, calibrators or controls
−− Control ranges established incorrectly
Environment: Refer to laboratory and surrounding conditions
that can influence the result. These may include:
−− Electrical and physical specifications (spatial layout)
−− Computer and user interface specifications
3. EVALUATE: identify potential causes (including subcomponents and

high cost part (HCP) evaluation
Verify problem
Check causes against data
4. PROCEED: Resolution/corrective action (which includes utilizing the

most cost effective solution) to isolate and correct root cause of
failure; perform repair
Verify problem resolution
Complete all checklists and verifications
Achieving Service Excellence (ASE): Proactive

Customer Care Interaction Cycle
A concept designed to provide Service personnel with communication skills for Abbott
proactive approach or interaction. The interaction cycle is outlined below with the proactive
model concept.
PRE-VISIT ACTIVITIES
Be Ready - Review
•• ONeview: Instrument Health Notification/PHN
Alert; related tickets
•• Key customer metrics
•• Knowledge Management check, ensure
accuracy
Receiving
•• Initiate contact and plan timely intervention
(Planned Service)
•• Assure customer of proactive approach with
PHM and ALWAYS ON
DURING VISIT
Understanding:
•• Demonstrate Active Sense Technology –
provide visual
•• Share Predictive Health Notification / PHM
related information
•• Provide more detailed visual
Helping:
•• Perform Proactive service call or PHM ticket
•• Utilize Knowledge Management
•• Utilize Chat or FaceTime with SME if needed
•• Perform Total Call (address reasons for red KPIs in ONeview)
Keeping:
•• Conversation with the Customer: Account health
•• Ensure AbbottLink connectivity
•• Discuss proactive actions for red customer KPIs (high CPY in ONeview)
•• Provide Service Report
Follow Up:
•• Follow up with customer next day
•• Utilize ASE Skills
•• Continue to monitor instrument to confirm resolution
Basic Operations Flowchart
Note: The steps above were created for the current version of the
Alinity ci-series software. Refer to the current version of the Alinity
ci-series Operations Manual for additional detail.
Alinity c Power Distribution
Main Power Supply Voltage Distribution
PS7 and PS8 Power Distribution
Water Management Unit (WMU)
Component Illustration
1. Water Bath Filter
2. Low Concentration
Waste Tank
3. Inlet Water Valve and
Flow Restrictor
4. DI Water and External
Waste Tubing
Connectors
5. Water Bath Fill Peristaltic
Pump
6. Water Heater
7. Water Bath Drain Valve
8. External Probe/Mixer/
Cuvette Wash RD30 24
VDC Water Pump
9. Internal Probe Wash 24
VDC Water Pump with
Damper
10. Water Bath Circulation
RD20 24 VDC Water
Pump
Component Illustration
11. DI Water Tank
12. Connector Panel
13. Float Sensors
Alinity c Cuvette Washer Nozzles
During the Cuvette wash process: dispense & aspiration occurs

simultaneously
-Exception, degassed water is dispensed by Nozzle 6 to create a
blank then aspirated by Nozzle 7
- vacuum aspirations will remove all fluid in the Cuvettes prior to the
reaction carousel rotation
END OF GUIDE

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Alinity c

Global Field Service Training Program

Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102

[This page intentionally left blank.]

ii Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102

1 Instrument Overview and Basic Operations................................................... 1-1

2 Power Distribution.............................................................................................. 2-1

3 Electronic Circuitry............................................................................................ 3-1

7 Temperature Control......................................................................................... 7-1

8 Installation and Integration.............................................................................. 8-1

9 Lab Practical and Final Exam.......................................................................... 9-1

A Appendix - Additional Handouts and Information........................................A-1

80001189-102 February 2019 All pages revised or added

© 2017, 2019 Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Illinois.

iv Alinity c Global Field Service Training | Internal Use Only | 80001189-102

Module Timing: 1.5 Hours

•• Recognize the supplemental resources (for example, Service and

•• Explain key safety and compliance service information

•• Describe how to apply Active Sense Technologies (AST) tools and

The Alinity c processing module is a fully automated chemistry analyzer

•• Use online resources to locate Alinity c product information and

•• Perform basic operations, including daily maintenance, basic run,

•• Use resources to interpret troubleshooting data, isolate root causes

•• Perform key maintenance, diagnostic, instrument installation, and

•• Integrate AST Tools, Service Cadence, HCP, HCI, and Predictive

Prerequisite activities that must be completed are:

•• Obtain AbbottLink ID and password to access AbbottLink.

•• Apply for Abbott Medical Password Generator (AMDPG)

•• Download LOG-ICAL application to your computer.

•• Download the Alinity c Service Training Guide to your iPad if you

 Note: All example printouts, graphics, displays, screens, etc. are

The Service Documentation, System Operations Manual, assay-specific

Service personnel should keep their laptop, iPad, and programs

How To Use This Guide

Activity: Name of Activity

 Note: The facilitator and participants should review activity steps

Special Tables for Notes and References

 Note: Denotes operator or service information.

WARNING: Denotes a physical, mechanical, or procedural condition

Reference: This notation provides references to published materials

 Abbott: Calls attention to activity using resources only available to

Safety and Hazards

WARNING: You must follow approved service documents when servicing

 Note: Refer to Escalation Procedure in DMS DFP19.001 for Escalation

Warnings are inserted throughout Alinity c Service Documentation to

It is important to wear gloves, lab coats, and protective eye wear

If the possibility of pressurized liquid exists, or if significant force is

Reference: See Alinity c Service Documentation > 1. Alinity c

•• Biological Hazards •• Mechanical Hazards

Reference: See MyGSS Service Cadence Portal; Resource

Abbott Personnel can access references to documents supporting

•• HCP and HCI Cadence training

•• ASE Proactive Customer Care

•• Alinity Predictive Health Management (PHM) and Predictive Health

Predictive Health Management (PHM)

Reference: Refer to MyGSS Service Tools & Links; Management;

•• Align with AlinIQ and

•• Help predict and prevent

•• Are developed from patterns

•• Use data analytics to predict the potential failure

•• Have specific KM resolutions requiring little to no troubleshooting

Note: Service observations and current tools may be unable to

•• Require on-site visit by certified service or level 2 support within 7

Note: All example printouts, graphics, displays, screens, etc. are

Note: The facilitator and participants should review activity steps

Note: Denotes operator or service information.

Abbott: Calls attention to activity using resources only available to

Note: Refer to Escalation Procedure in DMS DFP19.001 for Escalation

Note: This status is not displayed for the RSM.

Note: This status is not displayed for the RSM.

Note: If a test is added or a rerun is scheduled before

Note: Alinity c FSE log on for

ICT module will be discussed further in Fluidics Module

The solutions are used by the Smart Wash feature that

Note: The newer version of the

Note: Overfilling bottles may cause liquid level sense

Note: The ICT Reservoir bottle must be emptied prior to adding a

Note: Basic screen overview was covered in pre-training.

Note: A software configuration check box is available to prevent a