p671 Operation Manual

cobas p 671 centrifuge unit
Operator's Manual
cobas p 671
Manual version
Version Creation date
0.7 (Draft Version) September 2008
1.0 May 2009
1.1 March 2011
1.2 June 2011
1.2.5 September 2011
1.3 March 2012
1.3.1 April 2012
1.4 October 2015
Language Order number

English 01019900161
German 01019900160
Edition notice
cobas p 671 centrifuge unit operator’s manual
This document is for users of the cobas p 671 centrifuge unit.
Every effort has been made to ensure that all the information contained in this manual is
correct at the time of printing. However, Roche PVT GmbH reserves the right to make any
changes necessary without notice as part of ongoing product development.
Any customer modification to the instrument will render the warranty or service agreement
null and void. For warranty conditions, refer to the analyzer purchase agreement. Contact
your local Roche Diagnostics representative for further information.
Software updates are done by Roche Diagnostics representatives.
Intended use
The cobas p 671 centrifuge unit is a computer controlled and fully-automatic unit for the
detection, registration and centrifugation of samples. It is equipped with components for
tube recognition, transportation and centrifugation. The cobas p 671 is utilized in
conjunction with pre-analytical systems, such as cobas p 512 and cobas p 612.
The cobas p 671 is intended as accessory for diagnostic use.
Before using the system, the operator must read the manual carefully.
Copyrights
© 2012-2015, Roche PVT GmbH. All rights reserved.
Trademarks
cobas is a trademark of Roche.
All of the product names contained in this manual are trademarks of their respective owners.
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System approvals
The cobas p 671 centrifuge unit conforms to the currently applicable directives of the
European Union. Compliance with all standards and legal obligations is guaranteed. CE
labeling corresponds to the EU directives 98/79/EU (IVD Directive) and 89/336/EEC (EMC
Directive).
The requirements, limits, and tolerances stated in the following standards are complied with:
DIN EN 61326 (EMC requirements for electrical laboratory instruments)
DIN EN 61010-1 (Safety requirements for electrical laboratory instruments)
DIN EN 60825-1 (Safety regulations for laser equipment)
ETL labeling for North America
CB certificate
Compliance is demonstrated by the following marks:
corresponds with the IVD directive 98/79/EC

and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC
Contact addresses
Manufacturer
Roche Diagnostics GmbH
Sandhofer Strasse 116
D-68305 Mannheim
Germany
Guarantee and warranty

Current guarantee information can be found in your purchase contract or by asking at your
appointed dealer.
Neither Roche PVT GmbH nor its subsidiaries assume any liability to the purchaser of this
product or any third parties for damages, losses, costs or expenses incurred by the purchaser
or third parties due to accident, misuse of the product or unapproved modifications, repairs
or improvements to the instrument.
Roche PVT GmbH assumes no liability for damages or disruptions resulting from the use of
options or accessories that are not original products or that do not have express approval
from Roche PVT GmbH.
Software compatibility
This issue of the Operator's Manual was written for the cobas p 671 centrifuge unit with
software version v1.3.2 or higher.
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Table of contents
1. General Information ................................................................................... I

1.1. Preface .......................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2. Using the operator's manual .................................................................... 1-1
1.3. Signs and symbols in the operator's manual ........................................ 1-1
1.4. Hazards and precautionary measures ................................................... 1-1
1.4.1 Safety instructions ........................................................................................................ 1-1
1.4.2 Notes on safety .............................................................................................................. 1-1
1.4.3 Electrical safety .............................................................................................................. 1-1
1.4.4 Samples............................................................................................................................. 1-1
1.4.5 Barcode reader (optional).......................................................................................... 1-1
1.4.6 Warning labels on the system .................................................................................. 1-1
1.5. Daily routine ................................................................................................. 1-1

1.6. Rack types for sample feeding ................................................................ 1-1
1.7. Centrifuge ..................................................................................................... 1-1
1.7.1 Emergency release of the centrifuge's lid............................................................ 1-1
1.7.2 Rackset carriers ............................................................................................................. 1-1
1.8. Workstation .................................................................................................. 1-1

1.9. Disposal of device ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.10. Barcode reader (optional) ........................................................................ 1-1
1.10.1 Prerequisites for scanning a barcode ................................................................... 1-1
1.10.2 Barcode quality, printing and labeling material ................................................ 1-1
1.10.3 Specifications for the barcode labels .................................................................... 1-1
1.10.4 Placement of the barcode label ............................................................................... 1-1
1.10.5 Sample images of correct and incorrect barcode labels ............................... 1-1
1.11. Abbreviations ............................................................................................... 1-1

2. System Description .................................................................................... I
2.1. Introduction.................................................................................................. 2-1
2.1.1 Operator Training .......................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.2 Customer Configuration ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.1.3 Specifications.................................................................................................................. 2-1
2.1.4 Sample Flow and Processing .................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.5 Grade of Automation ................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.6 System Reliability........................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2. Hardware Description ................................................................................ 2-1

2.2.1 System safety devices.................................................................................................. 2-1
2.2.2 Control Unit ..................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.3 Signal Lamp..................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.4 QNX Computer ............................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.5 Input station .................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.6 Rack Transport ............................................................................................................... 2-1
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2.2.7 Gripper Unit ..................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2.8 Storage Area ................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.9 Tube Type Identification ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.2.11 Centrifuges ...................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.12 Inlet for compressed air supply ............................................................................... 2-1
2.2.13 Connectors and interfaces ........................................................................................ 2-1
2.2.14 Accessories...................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3. Basic information about the software .................................................... 2-1

2.3.1 Software structure ........................................................................................................ 2-1
2.3.2 QNX operating system ................................................................................................ 2-1
2.3.3 Graphical User Interface ............................................................................................ 2-1
2.3.4 Handling the menu system........................................................................................ 2-1
2.3.5 Online Help ...................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3.6 System status and messages.................................................................................... 2-1
2.3.7 Error messages............................................................................................................... 2-1
2.4. Software Description ................................................................................. 2-1

2.4.1 Login und user rights .................................................................................................. 2-1
2.4.2 System selftest................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.4.3 Menu Structure on User Login ................................................................................ 2-1
2.4.4 Routine .............................................................................................................................. 2-1
2.4.5 Routine ► Main Screen ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.4.6 General buttons on subsequent screens ............................................................. 2-1
2.4.7 Routine ► Sorting Lists.............................................................................................. 2-1
2.4.8 Routine ► Information System ................................................................................ 2-1
2.4.9 Routine ► Clear Data ................................................................................................. 2-1
2.4.10 Maintenance ................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.4.11 Maintenance ► Service Cycles............................................................................... 2-1
2.4.12 Maintenance ► Error History................................................................................... 2-1
2.4.13 Maintenance ► Date, Time, Day ............................................................................ 2-1
3. Operation...................................................................................................... I
3.1. Commissioning the system ...................................................................... 3-1
3.2. Daily routine ................................................................................................. 3-1
3.2.1 Notice on operating the protective cover ............................................................ 3-1
3.3. Preparations for routine operation ......................................................... 3-1

3.3.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.3.2 Trouble-free operating procedures ........................................................................ 3-1
3.3.3 Turn on devices.............................................................................................................. 3-1
3.3.4 Login .................................................................................................................................. 3-1
3.3.5 System test....................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.3.6 Submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen' ..................................................................... 3-1
3.3.7 Database Reorganization ........................................................................................... 3-1
3.3.8 Preparing an empty output tray ............................................................................... 3-1
3.3.9 Preparing dummy racks.............................................................................................. 3-1
3.3.10 Providing a complete set of balance racks ......................................................... 3-1
3.3.11 Selecting the work cycle ............................................................................................ 3-1
3.3.12 Loading initial sample racks ..................................................................................... 3-1
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3.4. Routine operation ....................................................................................... 3-1

3.4.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.4.2 Start sample processing ............................................................................................. 3-1
3.4.3 Interrupting operation ................................................................................................. 3-1
3.4.4 Respond to error messages ...................................................................................... 3-1
3.4.5 Reloading and unloading the rack trays .............................................................. 3-1
3.4.6 Centrifuge urgent samples ........................................................................................ 3-1
3.4.7 Centrifuge samples ahead of schedule ................................................................ 3-1
3.4.8 Ending sample processing ........................................................................................ 3-1
3.5. Terminating work operation after daily routine ................................... 3-1

3.5.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.5.2 Logout / shutting down the system ....................................................................... 3-1
3.5.3 Inspecting the transfer area ...................................................................................... 3-1
3.5.4 Care and maintenance procedures........................................................................ 3-1
4. Maintenance ............................................................................................... I
4.1. Introduction.................................................................................................. 4-1
4.2. Cleaning system components.................................................................. 4-1
4.3. Cleaning agents and equipment ............................................................. 4-1
4.4. Care and maintenance schedule ............................................................ 4-1
4.4.1 Preventative maintenance.......................................................................................... 4-1
4.5. Centrifuge maintenance............................................................................ 4-1

4.5.1 Pulling a centrifuge out of its cabinet ................................................................... 4-1
4.5.2 Cleaning the rotor chamber ...................................................................................... 4-1
4.5.3 Rubber care ..................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.5.4 Visual check for corrosion or damage .................................................................. 4-1
4.5.5 Visual check for cracks on the rackset carriers ................................................ 4-1
4.5.6 Lubricating the rackset carriers .............................................................................. 4-1
4.5.7 Inserting the rackset carriers .................................................................................... 4-1
4.5.8 Exchanging carrier and resetting revolutions counter.................................... 4-1
4.5.9 Returning the centrifuge into the cabinet ........................................................... 4-1
4.5.10 Emergency release of the centrifuge’s lid ........................................................... 4-1
4.6. System cleaning .......................................................................................... 4-1

4.6.1 Cleaning the housing and component surfaces ............................................... 4-1
4.6.2 Cleaning the tube type identification module .................................................... 4-1
4.6.3 Cleaning the optical sensors .................................................................................... 4-1
4.6.4 Cleaning the user interface ....................................................................................... 4-1
4.7. Replacing parts ........................................................................................... 4-1

4.7.1 Replacing the mains fuse........................................................................................... 4-1
4.7.2 Replacing bulbs (tube type identification) .......................................................... 4-1
4.7.3 Replacing the rackset carriers ................................................................................. 4-1
5. Troubleshooting .......................................................................................... I
5.1. Important questions for customer service ............................................ 5-1
5.1.1 General information ..................................................................................................... 5-1
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5.1.2 Air pressure too low ..................................................................................................... 5-1

5.1.3 Problems with the motor control ............................................................................. 5-1
5.1.4 Problems with the tube transport at the input and output sections ......... 5-1
5.2. What do I do if ...? ....................................................................................... 5-1

5.2.1 ... the system is not working? ................................................................................... 5-1
5.2.2 ... the control unit (computer) is not working? .................................................. 5-1
5.2.3 ... the touch-screen monitor is not working?...................................................... 5-1
5.2.4 ... the communication in the network is not working?.................................... 5-1
5.2.5 ... the control unit (computer) fails during operation? .................................... 5-1
5.2.6 ... a power failure has occurred? ............................................................................. 5-1
5.2.7 ... no button is active on the touch-screen monitor?....................................... 5-1
5.2.8 ... daily data backup is causing problems?.......................................................... 5-1
5.2.9 ... a centrifuge's lid cannot be opened? ................................................................ 5-1
5.2.10 ... the output tray contains loaded racks?............................................................ 5-1
5.2.11 ... error #063 occurs during loading of the centrifuge? ................................. 5-1
5.2.12 ... a rack is jammed at the output module (error #658)? ............................... 5-1
5.3. Opening the sorting gripper manually ................................................... 5-1

5.4. Messages ..................................................................................................... 5-1
5.4.1 Error messages and remedies .................................................................................. 5-1
5.4.2 Informative messages .................................................................................................. 5-1
6. Appendix ...................................................................................................... I
6.1. Scope of delivery ........................................................................................ 6-1
6.2. Technical Data ............................................................................................ 6-1
6.2.1 Power supply................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.2.2 Compressed air supply................................................................................................ 6-1
6.2.3 Operating conditions ................................................................................................... 6-1
6.2.4 Ambient climatic conditions ..................................................................................... 6-1
6.2.5 Heat emission ................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2.6 Device reliability............................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2.7 Noise levels...................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.2.8 Colors ................................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2.9 Interfaces .......................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.2.10 Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic centrifuge ............................................................... 6-1
6.2.11 Sample Tubes ................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2.12 RD / Hitachi 5-slot racks (MPA) ............................................................................. 6-1
6.2.13 Barcode reader .............................................................................................................. 6-1
6.3. Floorplan ....................................................................................................... 6-1

6.4. Accessories.................................................................................................. 6-1
6.5. Glossary ........................................................................................................ 6-1
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Part A
1. General Information
cobas p 671
II General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

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1. General Information ................................................................................... I

1.1. Preface .......................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2. Using the operator's manual .................................................................... 1-1
1.3. Signs and symbols in the operator's manual ........................................ 1-2
1.4. Hazards and precautionary measures ................................................... 1-3
1.4.1 Safety instructions ........................................................................................................ 1-3
1.4.2 Notes on safety .............................................................................................................. 1-3
1.4.3 Electrical safety .............................................................................................................. 1-3
1.4.4 Samples............................................................................................................................. 1-4
1.4.6 Warning labels on the system .................................................................................. 1-5
1.5. Daily routine ...............................................................................................1-11
1.6. Rack types for sample feeding ..............................................................1-11
1.7. Centrifuge ...................................................................................................1-11
1.7.1 Emergency release of the centrifuge's lid......................................................... 1-11
1.7.2 Rackset carriers .......................................................................................................... 1-12
1.8. Workstation ................................................................................................1-13
1.9. Disposal of device ....................................................................................1-13
1.10. Barcode reader (optional) ......................................................................1-13
1.10.1 Prerequisites for scanning a barcode ................................................................ 1-14
1.10.2 Barcode quality, printing and labeling material ............................................. 1-14
1.10.3 Specifications for the barcode labels ................................................................. 1-15
1.10.4 Placement of the barcode label ............................................................................ 1-17
1.10.5 Sample images of correct and incorrect barcode labels ............................ 1-18
1.11. Abbreviations .............................................................................................1-19
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IV General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Preface
1.1. Preface
Read the operator's manual with the utmost care and attention before using the system for
the first time. Particular attention should be paid to descriptions of hazards and precautions.
Failure to observe notes pertaining to risks and safety contained in this operator's manual
can have serious implications for health and safety or result in material damage.
1.2. Using the operator's manual

This operator's manual contains information for operators of the system at the application
level. The information contained in this manual is not intended for administrators or service
technicians.
The operator's manual is divided into the following sections:
Part Name Contents
A General Information Editorial, description of the operator's manual, safety
information
B System Description System overview, description of the hardware,
description of the software
C Operation Working with the system
D Maintenance Maintenance and cleaning instructions
E Troubleshooting Describing and fixing errors
F Appendix Glossary, technical details, index
NOTICE
Ensure that the operator's manual is kept in close vicinity to the system and available to all users.
Additional information about the menu items is available in the online help of the system software.
Click the right stick button to invoke the online help.
General Information v1.4 – 10/2015 1-1

Signs and symbols in the operator's manual cobas p 671
1.3. Signs and symbols in the operator's manual

An explanation follows of the symbols used to clarify and interpret the information featured
in the operator's manual.
[Tab] Key (keyboard)
[OK] Button (screen)
'Menu 1' ▶ 'Menu 2' Submenu in the control software including path
NOTICE
This indicates advice which the operator should observe in order to guarantee optimal operation of
the unit.
CAUTION
This symbol indicates a potential hazard. If this warning is not heeded, the device
can be damaged and/or the user may be at risk.
CAUTION
Pinching hazard: This symbol warns the operator not to reach inside areas where
there is a risk of injury from moving parts of the system.
WARNING
Laser light: This symbol warns of laser light that can be potentially hazardous to
the eyes.
WARNING
Risk of infection: This symbol warns of the risk from infectious samples.
WARNING
Mains voltage: This symbol warns the operator of areas where mains voltage is
active.
1-2 General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Hazards and precautionary measures
1.4. Hazards and precautionary measures

1.4.1 Safety instructions
CAUTION
To rule out the possibility of dangerous situations arising at the outset, you must
familiarize yourself with all precautionary measures and regulations concerning
the operation of the system as well as with its mechanical and electronic
equipment before starting the system.
The system must only be operated by personnel that have received specific
training for that purpose.
Pay particular attention to the safety instructions when handling samples.
1.4.2 Notes on safety

Safety regulations IEC 61010-1 and the applicable national electrical safety guidelines must
be observed!
Safe operation and reliability of the system can only be ensured if

• the electrical installation of the system meets appropriate IEC requirements.
• prescribed installation is performed by a trained expert.
• visual inspection, PE conductor test, insulation test and leakage current test are carried
out by a qualified electrician, if necessary (e.g. according to BGV A3 or other applicable
safety guidelines).
• the system is operated in accordance with the operating instructions.
1.4.3 Electrical safety

The system is delivered in a technically flawless condition and installed in full compliance
with local safety requirements.
WARNING
Electrical hazard!
Never open or remove the housing or parts of the housing of the system, the
computer or the monitor when the device is turned on!
Disconnect the mains voltage of the system before working inside the device (e.g.
cleaning the camera).

Hazards and precautionary measures cobas p 671
1.4.4 Samples
Blood samples and other biologic/organic materials are to be treated as potentially infectious
and hazardous materials. Therefore, the operator must take the utmost care and attention
because it is possible that he or she will come into direct contact with patient samples!
WARNING
Risk of infection!
Always wear gloves when working on the system and comply with applicable
laboratory regulations.
Potential sample contamination!
If sample material is spilt onto the surface of the system, the affected surface must
be cleaned and disinfected.
If material from a tube spills during operation (from tipping or leakage on the working area
or in the centrifuge), the following measures must be taken:
1. Put the system into standby mode.
2. Manually remove all opened tubes from the module.
3. Clean the affected module and the surrounding surface areas. Spray the broad area with a
disinfectant. Be sure not to contaminate the contents of the open tubes.
1.4.5 Barcode reader (optional)

The camera module of the system can be optionally equipped with a barcode reader which
emits laser light. This poses a risk to the eye if the camera unit is opened with the laser
scanner enabled.
WARNING
Laser light can be potentially hazardous to the eyes.
To rule out any risk, always switch the system off at the main switch and
disconnect the mains cable prior to commencing maintenance work inside the
camera module!

1.4.6 Warning labels on the system

Warning labels are used to indicate potential safety hazards and point out any remaining
risk. All warning labels on the module and in areas that can be accessed by the operator are
documented below:
L
A
B
K
H E
G
F
Figure 1-1: Warning labels on the system
A Lower edge of the protective cover (general safety note)

B Rack output (general safety note)
C Rack output (pinching hazard)
D Power supply behind the maintenance door
E Power supply on the inner side of the maintenance door (see Figure 1-9)
F Main power supply and fuse holder (see Figure 1-10)
G Centrifuge mains switch (general safety note, see Figure 1-3)
H Emergency release (general safety note, see part D 'Maintenance')
I Centrifuge lid, beside the automatic loading hatch (pinching hazard, see Figure 1-2)
J In front of protective cover lock, on both sides (system potentially infectious)
K Rack input (pinching hazard)
L Rack input (general safety note)

This warning symbol on the centrifuge lid reminds you of the hazard of an automatically
opening and closing hatch in the centrifuge lid. There is a pinching hazard between the
housing of the centrifuge and the lid:
A
B
Figure 1-2: Lid of centrifuge

A Centrifuge hatch B Warning label: pinching hazard
CAUTION
Pinching hazard!
Do not reach into the hatch of the centrifuge while it is opening or closing.
This warning label next to the bore hole for emergency release of the centrifuge lid warns you
of the risk posed by turning rotor. Before you open the centrifuge lid, make sure that the
rotor is at a standstill by looking through the window in the lid:
Figure 1-3: Centrifuge

A Warning label: Emergency release

This warning label on front of the centrifuge warns you that switching the centrifuge off
during operation may lead to a system hazard.
A
B
Figure 1-4: Mains switch of the centrifuge

A Key C Warning label
B Mains switch
CAUTION
Never operate the mains switch or turn the key when the system is in operation!
This warning symbol on the front of the tube type identification module advises you of the
risk posed by the laser light (if a barcode reader is present):
WARNING
Risk of injury! Laser light can be potentially hazardous to the eyes. When
performing maintenance or adjustment procedures on the barcode reader, never
look directly into the laser beam/ aperture opening!
Figure 1-5: Tube recognition unit (rear side of device)

These warning symbols on the rear of the tube type identification module advise you of the
hazards posed by mains voltage and laser light (if a barcode reader is present):
Figure 1-6: Tube type identification module (rear side of device)
A Warning symbol: mains voltage B Warning symbol: laser light (optional)
WARNING
The housing of the tube recognition for camera lens cleaning should only be
opened when the device is turned off!
This warning symbol on the optional barcode reader inside of the tube type identification
module advise you of the risk posed by laser light:
Figure 1-7: Barcode reader (inside the tube type identification module; optional)
A Warning label: laser light

Figure 1-8: Barcode reader DS2100N

This warning symbol on the maintenance door of the mains supply PDM (rear side of
device) advises you of the risk posed by mains voltage:
Figure 1-9: Warning symbol on the maintenance door of the mains supply PDM
A Warning label: mains voltage
WARNING
Never open the maintenance door with the power cable plugged in!
Do not touch the components or connectors! This can cause burning, electrical
shock or fatal injury. Only authorized and trained service technicians should
conduct work around live current-carrying components.

Figure 1-10: Interface panel
The voltage label affixed above the mains connection on the rear of the system
indicates the set operating voltage (115 V or 230 V).
Located below the mains connection of the system, this label warns you of the
danger of electric shock.
The label above the connection for compressed-air supply on the rear side of the device
informs you about the correct pressure of the compressed air supply (max. 6-8 bar).
Figure 1-11: Connection for compressed air supply
CAUTION
The compressed air supply must comply with specifications: min. 6 bar, max. 8
bar! If the pressure is too high, damage will result and it can be a source of danger
to the user. If the pressure is too low, the functionality of the mechanical
components in the system will be impaired.

cobas p 671 Daily routine
1.5. Daily routine

Daily routine use of the system is considered to be six hours; the standby time is also
considered to be six hours. The system has been designed for an average 5-day working
week.
1.6. Rack types for sample feeding

The system is operated with two different 5-slot rack types (MPA), each of which can hold 5
primary sample tubes. The racks differ in diameter of the single tube holders. Rack type 1 has
a diameter of 13.4 mm while rack type 2 has a diameter of 16.3 mm.
Ensure when loading the racks that the sample tubes with a diameter of 13.4 mm are always
placed in rack type 1 and sample tubes with a diameter of 13.4 to 16.3 mm are always placed
in rack type 2!
CAUTION
Sample tubes that are not fixed in an upright position in the racks can cause
problems during the centrifuge process!
1.7. Centrifuge
1.7.1 Emergency release of the centrifuge's lid

During a power outage, the centrifuge's lid cannot be opened as usual by pressing the
corresponding button on the panel. In this case, an emergency release has to be performed.
WARNING
During an emergency release, the centrifuge must be disconnected from the
mains line!
Open the lid only if the rotor has come to a complete halt!
Only the provided hexagon screw driver may be utilized. Inserting any other tool
might damage components within the centrifuge.

Centrifuge cobas p 671
1. Insert the hexagon screw driver (Figure 1-12; included on delivery) horizontally into the
bore (Figure 1-13) until you feel it engaging the head of the corresponding screw within
the centrifuge.
Figure 1-12: Hexagon screw driver Figure 1-13: Bore for emergency release
2. Turn the screw driver for about 180° until the lid is completely released.
3. Open the lid.
1.7.2 Rackset carriers

The centrifuge utilizes sets of 4 silver or black carriers each. Both types are engraved on the
outside with information about their maximum load and cycles as well as an expiration date
(see figures below).
Figure 1-14: Rackset carrier, silver Figure 1-15: Rackset carrier, black
In terms of cleaning and maintenance, please note that black carriers leave a minor black
abrasion within the centrifuge, slightly increasing the cleaning outlay.
Both silver and black carriers are to be exchanged when either their expiry date or the max.
number of cycles is reached (see part D 'Maintenance').

cobas p 671 Workstation
1.8. Workstation
The system can be integrated into a workstation (connection to other pre-analytic systems)
if desired. Your distributor will help you with additional information.
1.9. Disposal of device

Electronic devices contain potentially harmful substances that can have a negative effect on
human health and cause damage to the environment. Do not dispose of this device as normal
garbage when it reaches the end of its service life. It must be disposed of in compliance with
the applicable laws and regulations of the respective country in which it is operated.
About the German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act

The obligation on the part of the producer to take back equipment does not apply to
equipment from Roche PVT.
The owner of the equipment supplied by Roche PVT must ensure appropriate disposal. It is
the responsibility of the owner to ensure disposal in compliance with the respective national
and international laws and regulations.
WARNING
Equipment supplied by Roche PVT GmbH that comes into contact with sample
material is to be considered as potentially infectious and harmful to health.
1.10. Barcode reader (optional)

The system can optionally be equipped with a barcode reader, integrated into the TTI
module (camera housing). The barcode reader is used to identify the samples for further
order processing.
Functionality
The first two tubes within a rack are successively stepped in front of the camera in order to
identify their caps. One step further, while the camera identifies the third tube's cap, the
lifting rotary gripper moves into work position, closes, lifts the first tube out of the rack and
turns it in front of the barcode reader for barcode recognition. After the sample has been
successfully identified, the order processing for this sample is performed. The lifting rotary
gripper returns the tube into the rack and moves into start position again. The rack is then
stepped further until all caps / barcodes of this rack's sample tubes have been registered. If
any number of the tubes' barcodes could not be identified, the complete rack is marked faulty
and proceeded without centrifugation towards the output tray of the subsequent system.
In order for the system to process the sample tube, the barcode label must be placed correctly
on the tube and it must be easily readable. Therefore there are basic prerequisites which must
be met.

Barcode reader (optional) cobas p 671
1.10.1 Prerequisites for scanning a barcode

In order for the system to process the sample tube, the barcode must be placed correctly on
the tube and it must be easily readable. Therefore there are basic prerequisites which must be
met.
1.10.2 Barcode quality, printing and labeling material

In general: The readability and first-read rate will improve with improved print quality.
Likewise, better print quality leads to a reduced risk of reading errors by the substitution of
another line-gap sequence. Good code quality is characterized by sharp black-white contrasts
(non-blurry edges), and by clean gaps which are not contaminated with small dots (e.g., from
sprayed toner). Moreover, the lines should not be interrupted by white spots, but should be
deep black. High-quality printing methods include:
• Laser and thermal printing
• Offset printing, gravure printing
Quality of the printing ink The ink for the barcodes should be coordinated with the
PCS (print contrast signal) value
PCS The phrased used for the quality of a barcode related to the
(Print Contrast Signal) contrast value of the barcode reader. The value indicates the
contrast between the reflected signal of the empty white
space and the barcodes. It is expressed in percent.
Uniformity of the printed Uniformity of printing ink in a barcode should be less than
image or equal to 5% of the PCS value.
Contrast In order for a barcode to be detected, it is necessary to have a
certain contrast between the lines and gaps. With dark lines,
you should use only very bright paper or other data storage
medium. The best contrast is achieved with a black code on
a white background.
Quiet zone The white fields in front of and behind a barcode (the quiet
zone) are very important and absolutely necessary for
readability. Their dimensions must be at least fifteen times
larger than the module width X. The module width X is the
thinnest element in the barcode (a line or gap).
Check digit With poor-quality codes or printings, it is recommended to
use a barcode with a check digit.
White overflow The overflow is smaller when the barcode is smaller
(thinner) and further away.
The overflow is larger when the bars (columns) are wider
and nearer.
Labeling material The barcodes should be printed on labels which fulfill the
following requirements:
• Only pure white barcode labels should be used.
• The outer side of the label must have a matt surface so
that it does not cause any reflections.
• The labels must be smudge-proof.

cobas p 671 Barcode reader (optional)
1.10.3 Specifications for the barcode labels

The barcodes and labels should comply with the following specifications:
Barcode type Supported:

• Codabar
• 2 of 5 interleaved (ITF)
• Code 39
• Code 128 according to the ANSI/AIM standard.
The individual barcode types can be selected using the
following check digits:
Barcode symbol Check digit
Codabar Modulus 16
2 of 5 interleaved (ITF) No check digit
Modulus 10/3
Code39 Modulus 43
No check digit
Code128 Modulus 103
The use of check digits can reduce the frequency of errors
when reading barcodes.
Roche PVT claims no responsibility for read errors resulting
from missing check digits, poor quality labels or insufficient
maintenance.
Definition of barcode to The barcodes (type, length, check digit, human-readable
be read form) are configured using the system software. With this
configuration, up to six different barcodes can be defined and
read. The must all be defined with or all without a check-digit
place.
Maximum number of 24 characters allow for a barcode length of up to 24 places.
characters However, the maximum barcode length depends on the size
of the label which the customer is using. The length is also
limited by the secondary tube label and by the printing
density of the barcode printer.
Bar (column) size at least 0.2 mm
max. 2.0 mm
Ratio of wide/thin In general, this should be between 2.25 and 3 (not for code
sections 128). This is dependent on the barcode, however.
Ink for the barcode and Black ink on a white label Grey ink may not be used.
label
PCS (Print Contrast PCS value of the barcode must be at least 80%.
Signal)

Maximum and minimum d
gaps on the label
a
a9999999999999a
b
a: min. 3 mm (rest zone)
b: max. 50 mm
c: min. 3 mm (rest zone)
d: min. 8 mm
c
Calculating the quiet zone The dimensions must be at least fifteen times larger than the
module width b. The module width b is the thinnest element
in the barcode (a line or gap).
a
Rest zone a = 15 x b
a9999999999999a
Example:
Smallest gap b = 0.3 mm
Calculated rest zone:
b b
15 x 0.3 mm = 4.5 mm
Image clarity on the The distorted (unclear) area at the edge of the barcode must
barcode edges not be larger than 25% of the area of circle with a 0.15 mm
diameter.
0.15 mm
Empty spaces and Extraneous ink spots in the quiet zone should be less than or
extraneous ink dots equal to 0.075 mm in diameter. The area of the empty gaps
should be less than or equal to 25% of the area of a circle with
a 0.15 mm diameter.
0,075 mm
0,15 mm
Empty space Extra. dots

cobas p 671 Barcode reader (optional)
1.10.4 Placement of the barcode label

The following requirements must be met when placing a printed barcode label on a sample
tube.
The label should run the length of the tube. It should be placed as parallel as possible to the
tube edge.
The barcode must be fully readable from one side.
The label must be applied smoothly (wrinkle-free). The label should contain no 'dog-eared'
corner, wrinkles, or edges which stick out.
NOTICE
A poorly-placed label will cause the tube to be sorted out with an error code (refer to the sample
graphic of correct and incorrect placement for barcode labels).
There may only be one barcode on each tube. A used tube with an old label should not be re-
used, since the old barcode can cause read errors.
If there is a manufacturer marking on the tube, this should be covered with the label when
possible.
within the scanning area.

Bar code label must be
Label placement on the
Scanning area
sample tube
Primary tube Secondary tube
Distance a
(Label to tube opening, cap or
plug)
5 - 8 mm
75 mm tube:
b = 75 mm - 20 mm =
max. 55 mm

1.10.5 Sample images of correct and incorrect barcode labels
correct incorrect incorrect

Error-free placement of Tube has multiple barcode The window for serum
a barcode label labels on it. The label is analysis is too small.
sticking out.
incorrect incorrect incorrect

Tube has multiple barcode Colored label Colored label
labels on it. The window for (cannot be analyzed by the (incorrectly interpreted by
serum analysis is hidden system) the system as tube content)

cobas p 671 Abbreviations
1.11. Abbreviations
The table below contains an explanation of the abbreviations used in this manual:
Abbreviation Meaning
A Ampere
AC Alternating Current
AH Ampere-hour
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
CE Communauté Européenne
CPU Central Processing Unit
dB Decibel
DIN Deutsche Industrie Norm (German Industry Standard)
EC European Community
ElektroG German law covering recycling of electrical and electronic equipment
EDP Event Distribution Protocol
EDV German abbreviation for Electronic Data Processing
EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility
EN European Standard
EPROM Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
FCC Food Chemicals Codex
GB Gigabyte
GUI Graphical User Interface
Hz Hertz
IEC Integrated Electronic Component
I/O Input/Output
ISM Industrial, Scientific, Medical
LED Light Emitting Diode
LIS Laboratory Information System
LPT Line Printing Terminal
LWL Optical fiber
MB Megabyte
Mbps Megabits per second
MPA Modular Pre-Analytics
NN Normal Null (mean sea level)
PC Personal Computer
RAM Random Access Memory
RCF Relative Centrifugal Force
RD Roche Diagnostics
RJ45 Registered Jack 45
rpm rounds per minute
RS232/422 Recommended Standard 232/422
RSB Rack set buffer
TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
U/min Revolutions per minute
V Volt
VA Volt-Ampere

Abbreviations cobas p 671

Part B
2. System Description
cobas p 671
II System Description v1.4 – 10/2015

cobsa p 671
2. System Description .................................................................................... I

2.1. Introduction.................................................................................................. 2-1
2.1.1 Operator Training .......................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.2 Customer Configuration ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.1.3 Specifications.................................................................................................................. 2-1
2.1.4 Sample Flow and Processing .................................................................................... 2-2
2.1.4.1 Input ................................................................................................................................ 2-2
2.1.4.2 Rack Gathering Storages 1 to 3 .......................................................................... 2-2
2.1.4.3 Centrifuges................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.1.4.4 Removal Position ....................................................................................................... 2-2
2.1.4.5 Continued Processing ............................................................................................. 2-2
2.1.5 Grade of Automation ................................................................................................... 2-3
2.1.5.1 Automatic ..................................................................................................................... 2-3
2.1.5.2 Manual ........................................................................................................................... 2-3
2.1.6 System Reliability........................................................................................................... 2-3
2.2. Hardware Description ................................................................................ 2-4
2.2.1 System safety devices.................................................................................................. 2-4
2.2.2 Control Unit ..................................................................................................................... 2-5
2.2.3 Signal Lamp..................................................................................................................... 2-6
2.2.4 QNX Computer ............................................................................................................... 2-7
2.2.5 Input station .................................................................................................................... 2-8
2.2.6 Rack Transport ............................................................................................................... 2-9
2.2.7 Gripper Unit .................................................................................................................. 2-10
2.2.8 Storage Area ................................................................................................................ 2-12
2.2.8.1 Rack Storages for Balance Racks ................................................................... 2-13
2.2.8.2 Rack storages for urgent samples .................................................................. 2-14
2.2.9 Tube Type Identification .......................................................................................... 2-15
2.2.10 Barcode reader (optional)....................................................................................... 2-16
2.2.11 Centrifuges ................................................................................................................... 2-17
2.2.11.1 Setup and Operation ............................................................................................. 2-19
2.2.11.2 Loading and Unloading of a Centrifuge ....................................................... 2-19
2.2.11.3 Key Switch ................................................................................................................. 2-20
2.2.11.4 Display and control buttons ............................................................................... 2-21
2.2.11.5 Rackset carriers ...................................................................................................... 2-21
2.2.11.6 Centrifuge lubricant .............................................................................................. 2-21
2.2.12 Inlet for compressed air supply ............................................................................ 2-22
2.2.12.1 Connecting the compressed air hose ............................................................ 2-23
2.2.12.2 Disconnecting the compressed air hose ...................................................... 2-24
2.2.13 Connectors and interfaces ..................................................................................... 2-25
2.2.14 Accessories................................................................................................................... 2-26
2.2.14.1 Sample tubes ........................................................................................................... 2-26
2.2.14.2 5-slot Racks (MPA) and Rack Trays .............................................................. 2-27
2.2.14.3 Rack tray .................................................................................................................... 2-28
2.2.14.4 Modem ....................................................................................................................... 2-29
2.2.14.5 Cleaning Set (optional) ........................................................................................ 2-29
2.3. Basic information about the software ..................................................2-30

2.3.1 Software structure ..................................................................................................... 2-30
2.3.2 QNX operating system ............................................................................................. 2-30
System Description v1.4 – 10/2015 III

cobas p 671
2.3.3 Graphical User Interface ......................................................................................... 2-31

2.3.4 Handling the menu system..................................................................................... 2-32
2.3.4.1 Touch screen............................................................................................................ 2-32
2.3.4.2 Using the stsick and its buttons....................................................................... 2-32
2.3.4.3 Operating the keyboard ....................................................................................... 2-32
2.3.5 Online Help ................................................................................................................... 2-33
2.3.6 System status and messages................................................................................. 2-34
2.3.7 Error messages............................................................................................................ 2-34
2.4. Software Description ...............................................................................2-35
2.4.1 Login und user rights ............................................................................................... 2-35
2.4.2 System selftest............................................................................................................. 2-35
2.4.3 Menu Structure on User Login ............................................................................. 2-36
2.4.4 Routine ........................................................................................................................... 2-37
2.4.5 Routine ► Main Screen .......................................................................................... 2-37
2.4.5.1 Buttons ....................................................................................................................... 2-38
2.4.5.2 Status field ................................................................................................................ 2-39
2.4.5.3 Display of the active work cycle....................................................................... 2-39
2.4.5.4 Rack Transport: Positions ................................................................................... 2-39
2.4.5.5 Rack Transport: Job Steps .................................................................................. 2-40
2.4.5.6 Detailed view of output tray (optional) .......................................................... 2-41
2.4.5.7 Storage Area ............................................................................................................ 2-42
2.4.5.8 Rack storages for reception of racks from the transport belt ............. 2-43
2.4.5.9 Storages for racksets ............................................................................................ 2-44
2.4.5.10 Balance racks .......................................................................................................... 2-45
2.4.5.11 Dummy racks ........................................................................................................... 2-45
2.4.5.12 Centrifuge storages ............................................................................................... 2-45
2.4.5.13 Urgent sample storages ...................................................................................... 2-46
2.4.5.14 Transferring centrifuged racks onto the transport belt .......................... 2-46
2.4.6 General buttons on subsequent screens .......................................................... 2-47
2.4.7 Routine ► Sorting Lists........................................................................................... 2-48
2.4.8 Routine ► Information System ............................................................................. 2-50
2.4.8.1 Orders ......................................................................................................................... 2-50
2.4.8.2 Cam .............................................................................................................................. 2-52
2.4.9 Routine ► Clear Data .............................................................................................. 2-53
2.4.10 Maintenance ................................................................................................................ 2-54
2.4.11 Maintenance ► Service Cycles............................................................................ 2-54
2.4.12 Maintenance ► Error History................................................................................ 2-55
2.4.12.1 Error listing ................................................................................................................ 2-55
2.4.12.2 Host communication ............................................................................................. 2-56
2.4.13 Maintenance ► Date, Time, Day ......................................................................... 2-57
IV System Description v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Introduction
2.1. Introduction
2.1.1 Operator Training
When the system is installed at the customers location, a service technician is on-site and an
operator training takes place. During this training, the future operator(s) will be prepared to
independently carry out daily routine tasks and to safely work with the system in compliance
with safety guidelines.
2.1.2 Customer Configuration

Prior to the installation on-site, the system's software is preconfigured with all processing
parameters that apply to its future daily routine usage. All data regarding the utilized sample
tubes are applied to the system's configuration as well as their designated centrifuge
parameters (such as speed, time and temperature).
Furthermore, all movement sequences of the gripper and of other movable components are
already programmed and optimized for the workflow on-site.
Extensive tests are carried out on this software configuration by the manufacturer to ensure
that the system can be immediately deployed at the customer’s location.
2.1.3 Specifications
• The system is operated via a graphic user interface with touch screen monitor and
keyboard with integrated stick.
• Optimized loading and unloading of the centrifuges according to tube type.
• Centrifugation process per rack determined by tube type identification via cap
recognition.
• For transportation and centrifugation by the system, the sample tubes are put into 5-
slot racks (MPA).
• The capacity of the system amounts 120 tubes per load (60 tubes per centrifuge).
• The centrifuges are loaded and unloaded by the gripper unit.
• Unbalances of up to 40 g can be automatically compensated by the centrifuges.
• Equilibration is done by the use of balancing racksets.
• The centrifuges are refrigerated.
• Direct start mode via user interface.
• All relevant system functions and states are monitored by sensors.
• A signal lamp indicates the operational state of the system.
• All movements are carried out by electrical and pneumatic actuators.
• Service via analog modem
• The compressed-air is supplied via an external compressed air connection, e.g. via an
external compressor (optional accessory).
• The operator does not come into contact with potentially infectious sample material.
• The system is pre-configured to suit the customer's requirements.
System Description v1.4 – 10/2015 2-1

Introduction cobas p 671
2.1.4 Sample Flow and Processing
Figure 2-1: Schematic illustration of the system
2.1.4.1 Input
Two feed levers push the racks onto a guide where they are transported towards cap
recognition. After the tube type has been identified, the rack is transferred to the rack
transport belt.
2.1.4.2 Rack Gathering Storages 1 to 3
Accurate cap recognition provided, the system then pushes the racks off the transport belt
again at three individual positions, each one correspondent to either of three tube types and
capable of housing 3 racks each. Only when a complete set of 3 racks has been gathered, the
sorting gripper picks up the rackset and drops it onto an available rack storage on the storage
area. (This step may be skipped depending on the storage areas occupation. The gripper
would then lift the rackset directly into one of the centrifuges).
2.1.4.3 Centrifuges
In order to avoid imbalances, the centrifuges will always be loaded placing two racksets of the
same tube type oppositely. In case no second rackset is available, the system can use
balancing racks instead, placed in the top right corner of the storage area (see Figure 2-1).
After centrifugation has been completed, the sorting gripper lifts the racksets either to an
available rack storage or directly to the removal position.
2.1.4.4 Removal Position
A slide off device pushes each rack separately back onto the transport belt whereon they will
leave the system.
2.1.4.5 Continued Processing
For further processing of the individual sample tubes, the system can be connected to a
subsequent system (such as cobas p 612). Transferring of the tubes from the racks will then
be performed automatically.
2-2 System Description v1.4 –10/2015

2.1.5 Grade of Automation
2.1.5.1 Automatic
• Loading and unloading of racksets to/from the centrifuges.
• Transport of the racks through the system.
• Transport of the sample tubes within the racks towards a subsequent system (optional).
• Reading of barcodes
2.1.5.2 Manual
• Loading and unloading of racks or complete rack trays.
• Presorting of sample tubes inside the racks.
• Operating via graphical user interface
2.1.6 System Reliability

The assumed average use of the cobas p 671 system is:
• Five days a week
• Six hours routine operation per day
• Six hours standby per day
If the actual average operating times exceed those stated above, the planned maintenance and
service intervals must be adapted accordingly.
Longer average operating times will also shorten the guarantee and warranty period.

Hardware Description cobas p 671
2.2. Hardware Description

The system is a centrifuge module for centrifugation of primary sample tubes in 5-slot racks
(MPA). The samples are automatically centrifuged and transported to the output station.
During operation, the samples just have to be placed manually into the input station and
removed again from the output station. After that, they are ready for further processing.
2 E
F
G
A
H
I
B
5
5
J
C
Figure 2-2: cobas p 671, outline
A Gripper unit F Keyboard with stick

B Input station G Output station
C Motor control boards (behind side doors) H Mains switch
D Signal lamp I QNX computer (behind front door)
E Touch screen monitor J Centrifuges
2.2.1 System safety devices

Areas that present a hazard during operations are secured by doors. The work area of the
moving sorter unit is secured by the protective cover in front of the storage area. The
centrifuges are secured with doors against manual interference.
The system can only be started when the protective door is closed. The protective door is
locked at the front by pressing the [Run] button and can only be opened when in the standby
mode or turned off.

cobas p 671 Hardware Description
2.2.2 Control Unit

The touch screen monitor and the separate keyboard form the system's control unit. The user
enters all commands using the control unit.
Figure 2-3: Monitor with keyboard and stick
A Touch screen monitor B Keyboard with stick
Touch Screen
Throughout the system software, most commands are carried out by pressing buttons on the
touch screen. During operational view ('Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'), the current state of the
system is displayed on screen (see chapter 2.3.3).
Left/right button, stick and keyboard

The stick and the left/right button fulfill the function of a mouse. The stick controls the
mouse pointer. By pressing the left or right button you can execute commands or call up
functions. Entries for the system software are entered using the keyboard.

2.2.3 Signal Lamp

A signal lamp is mounted at the top of the system indicating the current operating status of
the system:
Lamp Color System mode of operation
STANDBY
Intervention by the operator or service technician
RED
is necessary.
An error message is displayed.
RUN
OPERATION ERROR
RED + YELLOW The system is operating but an error occured.
Intervention by user is required immediately.
An error message is displayed.
RUN (operating)
The system is operating in a condition which will
YELLOW + GREEN stop operation soon.
Intervention by user is required very soon.
A message is displayed.
GREEN RUN (operating)

2.2.4 QNX Computer

The QNX computer is positioned below the output station behind a door.
Figure 2-4: Housing below output station
A QNX computer
Solid-State drive
The computer is equipped with a SSD mounted on rack.
USB connectors
Also for backup purposes, the computer has two USB connectors in front (behind the cover).
DVD-ROM drive
The computer has a built-in DVD-ROM drive for installation of the system software.
Mains switch on the computer

The mains switch is used to turn off the computer as distinct from the electrical and
pneumatic systems.
Reset switch
Use the reset switch to reboot the computer separately.
CAUTION
Only the service technician is authorized to turn off or reboot the computer
separately from the rest of the system!

2.2.5 Input station

The samples are placed into the input station. The sample tubes are put into 5-slot racks
(MPA) which in turn are placed on the guide rail inside a rack tray.
NOTICE
Either 5-slot rack may only contain sample tubes of one single tube type.
Furthermore, the tubes diameter is to be adhered (rack type 1 or rack type 2).
C
A D
A
B
Figure 2-5: Input station
A Rack trays C 5-slot racks with primary tubes

B Rack transport input (RTI) D Feed levers
A loaded rack tray is placed on the tray holder of the input station. As soon as the feed lever
is shifted down, it will start feeding racks onto the rack transport.
CAUTION
Risk of contusion!
As long as the feed lever is in motion, the rack trays may neither be loaded nor
unloaded!
NOTICE
When turning on the system, the feed levers have to be in their upright position.

C
B
Figure 2-6: Transition: input station - rack transport
A Rack transport guide C Feed lever

B Rack transport input (RTI)
The feed lever serves to push additional racks onto the rack transport guide as soon as they
can be processed. From there, they are shuffled into the system by means of the RTI feed
carriage. When the rack tray has been emptied, the feed lever automatically moves back. The
rack tray can then be refilled or replaced with a loaded one.
2.2.6 Rack Transport

The rack transport consists of two carriages below the rack guide and a continuously running
transport belt. It begins at the input station and continues through the whole system towards
the output station. The feed carriage (RTI) moves the individual racks from the input station
towards the transport carriage (RTC). This stepped transport carriage (RTC) moves the rack
tube-wise in front of the camera for tube type identification and then releases the rack onto
the transport belt.
On the transport belt, stoppers halt the racks at their transfer positions where removal slides
push them off the belt into their respective rack gathering storage.
After processing, the racks will be placed onto the removal position. A feed slide pushes them
back onto the rack transport belt whereon they leave the system.
C
B
Figure 2-7: Rack transport belt (adjacent to cap recognition)
A Removal slides C Gathering storages (RSP1 to 3)

B Rack transport belt D Stoppers

2.2.7 Gripper Unit

Racks that are to be centrifuged are transported to their respective gathering storage and then
lifted to an available rack storage. After centrifugation is completed, the gripper unit lifts the
racks either back onto an available rack storage or directly to the removal position towards
the rack transport belt.
A
C
Figure 2-8: Gripper unit
A Y-axis (back/forth) C Z-axis (up/down)

B X-axis (left/right) D Gripper
The fingers of the gripper unit are driven by pneumatics. The unit transports the samples
always in batches of 15 (3 racks of 5 tubes each), further mentioned as 'racksets'. The racksets
are moved between the rack storages as well as into the centrifuges and back.
Figure 2-9: Fingers of the gripper unit
A Gripper fingers

Figure 2-10 Gripper loading rackset into centrifuge
A Gripper unit with rackset
CAUTION
Risk of contusion!
Never reach into the centrifuge when its hatch is opening or closing!

2.2.8 Storage Area
A D
E
C
F
Figure 2-11: Positions
A Transfer positions for RSP1 - 3 D Transfer position

Rack transport belt ► Storage area Storage area ► Rack transport belt
B Rack storages for 5-slot racks (MPA) E Rack storages of the urgent sample feed for
5-slot racks (MPA)
C Centrifuge hatch F Drop position for racksets
The cobas p 671 system offers 30 rack storages for 3 tube-filled racks each, plus 6 rack
storages for balance racksets and two additional rack storages for urgent samples.
The transfer positions RSP1, RSP2 and RSP3 (also called 'rack gathering storages') collect
racks of identical tube type from the rack transport belt. As soon as a rackset (of 3 racks) is
complete, it is lifted by the gripper unit either directly into the centrifuges or onto an
available rack storage on the storage area where it would remain until it can be loaded into
either centrifuge.
After centrifugation, the racksets are unloaded from the centrifuge and transported either
directly onto the transfer position towards the rack transport belt or placed onto an available
rack storage where they would remain until said transfer position becomes available again.

2.2.8.1 Rack Storages for Balance Racks

Balance racks are used when the program sequence intends for centrifugation of particular
racksets of which only an odd number (1 or 3) is available.
6 rack storages within the storage area are used to host balance racks for centrifugation
(2 racksets for each tube type)
Figure 2-12: Rack storages for balance racks
A Rack storage for balance racks of tube type 1

B Rack storage for balance racks of tube type 2
C Rack storage for balance racks of tube type 3
NOTICE
In order to avoid / minimize imbalances, the racksets facing each other inside the centrifuge must
always be completely occupied and similar in weight.
Should the imbalance become too great, the centrifugation process will be automatically aborted
after a short spin.
Proper allocation of the balance rack storages is determined by the customer-specific

configuration of the system.
Prior to operation on the cobas p 671, it is mandatory to prepare balance racks for every tube
type to be centrifuged and to manually place them onto the balance rack storages in the
assigned order. For this purpose, a customer-specific allocation plan for balance racks is
provided with the system.

2.2.8.2 Rack storages for urgent samples

For centrifugation of particularly urgent samples, two rack storages are provided for feeding
up to two compete racksets.
The current operation must be interrupted (standby mode) in order to feed urgent samples
for prioritized centrifugation.
Figure 2-13: Rack storages for urgent samples
Due to the fact that urgent samples are fed by passing the automatic tube type identification,
the rackset's tube type must be selected manually on the touch screen. As soon as operation
has been resumed, these fed urgent samples are prioritized for centrifugation.
After centrifugation of urgent samples, the correspondent racksets are placed back onto the
same rack storage on which it has been originally fed into the system. They would then have
to be removed manually after the system has temporarily been switched to standby mode
once more.
CAUTION
Only tube types registered with the system may be used for feeding urgent
samples!
Always feed a complete rackset!

2.2.9 Tube Type Identification

The tube type identification camera is located inside the cover you see on the left side behind
the storage area (see figure). Identification of the tube type is performed according to cap
color and the capped tubes size.
Figure 2-14: Tube type identification module
A Cover of the camera module C Rack transport

B Storage area
If the tube type is intended for centrifugation, racks containing that tube type are transported
to their assigned rack gathering positions (RSP1, RSP2, RSP3). As soon as three racks are
gathered, this rackset is picked up by the gripper unit, lifted onto the storage area and then
centrifuged according to their corresponding preset parameters.
Racks are marked faulty and transported to the output tray of the adjacent system, if
• one or more tubes inside the rack had not been identified properly.
• less than five tubes are contained within the rack.
• the tube type contained is not intended for centrifugation or not registered with the
work cycle currently running.

2.2.10 Barcode reader (optional)

The tube type identification module can be optionally equipped with a barcode reader which
emits laser light.
WARNING
Risk of injury! Class II Laser Product
Maximum output radiation 1 mW
Emitted wave length 630 – 680 nm
in compliance with CDRH 21 CFR 1040
Laser light can be potentially hazardous to the eyes. Never look directly into the
laser beam/ aperture opening with the naked eye or an optical instrument
(magnifying glass/ binoculars)! Permanent eye damage could result. Wear eye
protection whenever performing maintenance or adjustment procedures on the
camera module with the cover removed/ on the barcode reader with the laser
beam switched on.
The barcode reader is located in the same housing as the camera. It reads the barcode of the
sample tubes in the current movement performed by the lifting rotary gripper. The inquiry
processing for this sample is executed after the barcode has been read. If it is not possible to
read the barcode or a sample could not be recognized, all tubes in the rack will remain
unprocessed. The rack will be transferred to the subsequent system and sorted to the default
rack.
A
B
Figure 2-15: Tube type identification module (with rear cover removed)
A Lifting rotary gripper B Barcode reader

2.2.11 Centrifuges
Two Rotanta 460 Robotic centrifuges, manufactured by Andreas Hettich GmbH & Co. KG,
are integrated into the system.
A
B D
C
F
Figure 2-16 Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic, pulled out of cabinet for maintenance
A Control panel / display D Auxiliary cover release

B Stop and open button E Mains switch, key switch
C Handle to pull the centrifuge out of the cabinet. F Guide rail
Equipped with a separate power supply, the centrifuge can be programmed with up to 89
centrifuge programs. It operates fully automatically and is connected to the control unit of
the system via serial line (RS232).
The centrifuge programs assigned to the various primary sample types (for example, serum,
plasma or coagulation) are configured before the system is installed on site at the customer’s
location. The tube recognition identifies the primary samples in the racks. After this step, the
racks are combined into racksets, distributed on the storage area and finally centrifuged.
The centrifuges are loaded and unloaded by the sorter unit via a separate hatch in the lid; the
hatch cover opens and closes automatically.
The centrifuge is refrigerated (-20 °C to +40 °C). Fully loaded, it reaches 6.200 rpm.
During automated operation, the motor positions the rotor into 4 programmed positions,
locks it securely below the hatch and automatically moves to rotor position 1 after each
centrifugation.
Status information such as standstill, start-up, centrifuge program, speed, status of the lid or
position of the rotor are shown on the display.

Both centrifuges are located inside the lower part of the system, behind the doors. For
maintenance purposes, they can be pulled on guide tracks out of their bays.
B
C
D
Figure 2-17: Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic, lid opened
A Centrifuge lid with hatch C Rackset carrier

B Rotor chamber D Rotor
Security features
• Interlocks on lid and hatch
• Emergency lid lock release
• Protection against overheating motor and/or chamber
• Imbalance shutdown
• Excess temperature protection of the break resistors
• Twin rotor standstill detection
• Additional monitoring of data transfer
• Subject to regular inspection
• Device safety class I

2.2.11.1 Setup and Operation

As integral parts of the system, the centrifuges are preconfigured for automatic operation by
the service technician during installation.
CAUTION
Only service personnel who have received appropriate training are permitted to
manually perform set-up procedures or operate the centrifuges (without a serial
interface). Following set-up procedures, the key switch must be must be in
position 2 (lock 2).
Manual operation of the centrifuges by the operator is not necessary during regular routine.
Only for the purpose of maintenance or cleanup they may be operated manually by the
operator.
NOTICE
The STOP button on the centrifuge's control panel is always active. If necessary, a centrifugation in
progress can be aborted by use of this button. The racksets would then be regularly unloaded and
further processed.
2.2.11.2 Loading and Unloading of a Centrifuge

The centrifuges are loaded and unloaded by the gripper unit through a hatch in their lid
which opens and closes automatically before and after every centrifugation run. The gripper
unit always carries a rackset of 3 racks each.
Figure 2-18: Loading a rackset into the centrifuge
A Z axis of the gripper unit C Rackset

B Open hatch cover
As soon as 4 racksets are available for centrifugation and either centrifuge is empty, this
centrifuge is loaded. It is possible to load 4 racksets of the same tube type or 2 racksets each
of two different racktypes. Loading of the centrifuge will be done symmetrical with racksets
of the same tube type facing each other inside the rotor chamber.

If a rackset has to be centrifuged within a given time span or an urgent rackset has been fed,
and if not enough additional racksets are available, centrifugation with only 2 racksets inside
the chamber is also possible. Again loading is done symmetrical with both racksets facing
each other inside the chamber. The other two rackset holders would remain empty.
In case of an odd number of racksets (3 or just 1), a balance rackset of the correspondent
tube type is loaded as well. After loading is completed, the centrifuge starts automatically.
2.2.11.3 Key Switch

During routine operation of the system, the program-lock 'Lock 2' is activated by means of
the key-operated switch on the centrifuges, preventing deletion of stored programs or
accidental execution of programs.
Figure 2-19 Key switch in position 'Lock 2'
A Mains switch B Key switch
The key switch can be set to the following 3 positions:
Position Display Parameter

1 TEACH No program lock.
2 0 Stored programs can be launched and executed. However, they
cannot be altered.
3 Lock 2 Only the set program can be executed. However, it cannot be
altered.
The corresponding switch position is displayed (see Figure 2-20; 3) and can only be changed
with the key.
CAUTION
The key must be kept in a safe place away from unauthorized personnel!
Furthermore, appropriate measures must be taken to ensure the centrifuge is
shielded from unauthorized access and protected against manipulation within the
system as a whole!

2.2.11.4 Display and control buttons

A B C D E F
Figure 2-20: Display and control elements of the centrifuge
A Centrifuge program D Speed of rotation

B Temperature in the rotor chamber E Remaining centrifugation time
C Display 'Lock 2' F Lid lock release
2.2.11.5 Rackset carriers

The centrifuge rotor has 4 carriers, in each of which a rackset can be loaded for a precise fit.
Figure 2-21: Rackset carrier, standard Figure 2-22: Rackset carrier, anodized
2.2.11.6 Centrifuge lubricant

During maintenance it is necessary to lubricate the supporting lugs on the centrifuges rotor.
A tube of lubricating agent comes included with the system.
Figure 2-23: Lubricating agent for the supporting lugs of the rotor

2.2.12 Inlet for compressed air supply

The inlet for compressed air is located on the rear side of the system's housing, near the
right-handed lower edge.
Figure 2-24: Inlet for compressed air
Compressed air is required to drive mechanical components of the system.

The system can be connected to an existing air supply, as well as to an external compressed
air source (optional accessory).
The system requires dry, oil-free air at an air pressure of min. 6 to max. 8 bar. It is connected
via snap-on hose coupling NW 7.2 (G ¼").

2.2.12.1 Connecting the compressed air hose
Prior to starting the system, connect the compressed air hose following this procedure:
1. Ensure that the air hose cannot be kinked or jammed during operation.
2. Guide the hose from the compressed air supply to the compressed air inlet. Hold the
hose in both hands.
A
B
Figure 2-25: Preparing to connect thecompressed air Figure 2-26: Connecting the hose
hose
A Compressed air inlet B Sleeve on the hose coupling
3. Pull back the sleeve nut of the hose coupling (towards yourself).
4. Press the coupling completely onto the inlet and let go of the sleeve. The compressed
air hose is now securely connected.
5. Turn on the compressor, or respectively, the compressed air supply.

2.2.12.2 Disconnecting the compressed air hose
In order to disconnect the compressed air hose, proceed as follows:
1. Turn off the compressor, or respectively, the compressed air supply.

2. Hold the hose firmly with one hand and the hose coupling with the other.
Figure 2-27 Release the coupling Figure 2-28 Remove the hose
A Sleeve nut of the hose coupling
3. Pull back the sleeve nut of the hose coupling (towards yourself).
4. Then remove the hose coupling from the compressed air connection. The compressed
air hose is now disconnected.

2.2.13 Connectors and interfaces

The system's connector panel is located on the rear side of the housing, to the lower left.
C
D
E
F
G
A Service port (Ethernet) E Network (Ethernet)

B Printer (parallel) F Fuse
C Modem (serial) G Main power supply
D Serial connection (-not used-)
Connectors
Interface Connection Remark

Service port Ethernet (RJ45) For connection of a service notebook via network
cable (for example, to remotely control the system).
Printer Parallel (IEEE 1284) The connector is a 25-pole Sub-D socket (female).
Modem Serial (RS232) For remote servicing purposes. The connector is a
9-pole Sub-D socket (male).
Host Network Ethernet (RJ45) For connecting the system to a host network or
laboratory EDP
Current Low-heat device For connection of main power supply.
coupling (C13)

2.2.14 Accessories
The components listed below are available as accessories. Please see the accessories list for
the order numbers.
The accessory list is available in part F 'Appendix'.
2.2.14.1 Sample tubes

Up to 3 types of plastic sample tubes from Kabe, Greiner, Sarstedt, Terumo and Becton
Dickinson with rounded base of 11.5 to 15.5 mm in diameter and 65.5 to 108 mm in height
und can be processed at the same time.
Prior to installation of the system, all tube types used at the customer and to be processed by
the system are tested by Roche PVT to ensure a concurrent use of either combination is
possible.
Inherently, using other primary sample tubes (different manufacturer, flat base) is feasible. If
the customer wishes to use other tube types, Roche PVT can test their usability beforehand to
ensure safe operation of the system.
CAUTION
It is not permitted to use sample tubes made of glass or tubes with a conical shape!
Open sample tubes must not be centrifuged!
For every sample tube type, specific centrifuge programs (time, speed and temperature) are
defined.
Dimensions of permissible tube types:

Minimum Maximum
Tube length 65.5 mm 108 mm (including cap);
(w/o cap) 117 mm (Sarstedt 10 ml urine sample tube with cap)
Tube diameter 11.5 mm 15.5 mm
Cap diameter 13.4 mm 18.0 mm

2.2.14.2 5-slot Racks (MPA) and Rack Trays

Primary sample tubes are transported through the cobas p 671 system exclusively inside 5-
slot racks (MPA).
The system is operated using two different 5-slot racks (MPA) which hold 5 primary sample
tubes each. These racks differ in diameter of their respective tube holders. The holders of
rack type 1 are 13.4 mm in diameter whilst holders of rack type 2 measure 16.3 mm.
5-slot racks (MPA) can hold sample tubes of variable height up to a certain diameter. The
racks are numbered and labeled with a barcode. A notch in the middle of the racks base is
used to shelve them onto the guide track inside a rack tray for 5-slot racks to ensure straight
transportation.
Only 5-slot racks (MPA), completely occupied with sample tubes, can be processed by the
system. Incomplete racks are not centrifuged, but transported directly to the output station.
CAUTION
Take particular care that sample tubes of up to 13.4 mm are always placed into
rack type 1, and sample tubes of diameters between 13.4 and 16.3 mm are
always placed into rack type 2.
5-slot Rack Type 1 (MPA)

Rack type 1 holds sample tubes of up to 13.4 mm in diameter.
Figure 2-30: 5-slot rack type 1 (MPA)
A
Figure 2-31: 5-slot rack type 1 (MPA), top view
A Single tube position, 13.4 mm diameter

5-slot Rack Type 2 (MPA)

Rack type 2 holds sample tubes of up to 16.3 mm in diameter.
Figure 2-32: 5-slot rack type 2 (MPA)
A
Figure 2-33: 5-slot rack type 2 (MPA), top view
A Single tube position, diameter: 16.3 mm
2.2.14.3 Rack tray
Figure 2-34: Rack tray
Prefilled and empty rack trays can be loaded into the input and output station of the system.
During routine work, already empty rack trays are either refilled or replaced against prefilled
ones, ensuring an almost uninterruptible operation of the system.

2.2.14.4 Modem
The modem allows for remote service and control of the system. It is plugged in at the
connector panel on the rear side of the systems housing (see chapter 2.2.13).
Figure 2-35: Analog modem plus cabling
2.2.14.5 Cleaning Set (optional)

To clean the sensors, a cleaning kit comprising a lint-free cloth, compressed air spray and 10
cotton swabs is included in the delivery, as well as a set with cleaning liquid and cloth for
cleaning the camera lens.
Figure 2-36: cobas p 671 cleaning kit Figure 2-37: Camera cleaning kit

Basic information about the software cobas p 671
2.3. Basic information about the software

The system software is installed on a computer running QNX and serves for control and
monitoring of all functions of the system.
The software contains programs and functionality for
• system configuration as well as checkup and test functions.
• data handling.
• error recognition and reporting.
• preparation of logfiles.
Within this chapter, the structure of the software and its operational controls are described.
2.3.1 Software structure

The system software controls the system as well as manages and processes all available data.
It runs on the operating system QNX 4.2.x or higher and provides a graphical user interface
(GUI).
2.3.2 QNX operating system

The operating system provides secure and reliable functionality to the system software in
order to ensure continuous and efficient sample processing.
The graphical interface for the operating system QNX is structured analogically to a
Windows® operating system. Thus it provides flexible and easy usability of the system via a
menu system with online help which can be operated comfortably by touch screen.

cobas p 671 Basic information about the software
2.3.3 Graphical User Interface

The graphical user interface (GUI) is divided into several functional areas.
Figure 2-38: Graphical user interface
A Main menu
B Submenu
C [Buzzer off] button
D [Open Gripper] button
E [Slide Rack] button
F Processing positions along the rack transport
G Storage area
H [Work cycle] button
I Display of active work cycle
J [Logout] button (global)
K Status and information field
L Rack transport
M Detailed view of output tray (optional)
N Transfer positions RSP1, RSP2, RSP3
O Rack storage for balance racks
P Centrifuges
Q Urgent samples rack storage
R [Standby] button
S [Run] button
The main menu items 'Reference Data', Administration' and 'Service', depicted with a light
gray fontface, are unavailable to the user. Accessing these functions requires credentials only
provided to specially trained personnel and service technicians.
The tab's background of the menu item currently active is highlighted in light gray.
Active buttons feature a black marking, inactive ones are depicted with a grey fontface.

2.3.4 Handling the menu system

The system is operated either by using the touch screen or via the stick and its left/right
buttons. Textual entries are made by use of the keyboard.
2.3.4.1 Touch screen

Operating the system is done by touching the buttons on the touch screen. On daily routine,
the touch screen is the single most important operational control of the system.
2.3.4.2 Using the stsick and its buttons

The stick and its left / right buttons correlate to a computer mouse. Menu tabs, buttons or
single input fields can be approached with the mouse pointer and selected by using the left
stick button.
NOTICE
Pressing the right button invokes the online help system, if either an input field is active
(highlighted in blue) or the mouse pointer is positioned on a menu tab.
2.3.4.3 Operating the keyboard

Several entries must be done via the keyboard. Some keys have special functions:
[Pg Up] Abort. Entries will be discarded, changes will not be saved.
[Pg Down] OK. Entries are saved, commands are executed.
[Pos 1] Completely deletes the content of an input field.
[up] Cursor keys. [right] and [left] move the cursor inside an input field.
[down] [up] and [down] switch to the previous / next field.
[left]
[right]
[Tab] Cursor switches to the next input field.
[Num] 'Num' indicator is on:
The assignment of several character keys is switched towards numbers.
'Num' indicator is off:
The regular assignment of all keys is active.
[Enter] Entered values are registered.
The cursor switches to the next input field.
Key combinations
[Shift] + [Tab] The cursor switches to the previous input field.
[Shift] + [F1] Invokes the online help if an input field is selected.
All remaining keys have the same feature(s) as on regular keyboards.

cobas p 671 Basic information about the software
2.3.5 Online Help

Almost every input field, menu tab and button is assigned to a page within the online help
system which can be invoked by means of the right stick button.
This context-sensitive help provides detailed information and descriptions about the
correspondent item.
Figure 2-39: Online help, example
Buttons of the Online Help Window

Closes the online help window.
Invokes the first requested item within the same online help page.
Invokes the previously requested item within the same online help page.

2.3.6 System status and messages

The extensive system surveillance makes it easy to react to malfunctions or error messages.
Each workitem of the system can be logged. It is thus possible to comprehend operating
procedures in detail even at a much later point in time. The current status of the system is
depicted under 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen' by
• (error) messages
• status and user information
• occupancy of the storage area and status of the racksets
• occupancy of the rack transport and status of transported sample racks
2.3.7 Error messages

If an error occurs during operation and error messages are displayed on screen, the system is
halted and remains in standby mode afterwards. Furthermore a clearly perceivable alarm
signal will sound. The [Buzzer off] button can be used to mute the signaling of this error
message.
Figure 2-40: Error message, example
Buttons on the Message Window
Restarts the step that caused the error message.
Shows hints and recommendations on how to rectify the error.
Shows correspondent entries from the log.
In case a rackset erroneously remained inside the gripper, use

this button to put it down onto the drop position.
Only one error message is displayed at any given time. If multiple errors occur, they have to
be handled one after the other. Errors which the system can remedy by itself will be rectified
automatically (e.g. positioning errors on motors).
All errors and messages are logged and saved into a logfile. These data can be used for error
interpretation purposes where applicable. On fatal errors, the system is always brought to a
halt, and the error is logged automatically if possible.
NOTICE
Refer to part E 'Troubleshooting' for further information about individual errors and their remedy.

cobas p 671 Software Description
2.4. Software Description

2.4.1 Login und user rights
After turning on the system via the mains switch the operating system is booted, followed by
the login-screen.
The system has discriminative sets of user rights, which are defined by means of login and
password. Access to the several main and submenu items are determined this way.
The user login is predefined, which means no credentials are needed for access at user level.
Login is performed by pressing the [User-Login] button.
C D
A
B
Figure 2-41: Login screen
A User input field C [User-Login] button

B Password input field D [Shutdown] button
2.4.2 System selftest

Following power up and the operating system boot sequence, the system performs a selftest.
On starting a workcycle by means of the [Run] button, all movable elements will position
themselves to their individual initialization positions. If an error occurs during this
procedure, a corresponding message will be displayed on screen.
In case a rackset remained in the gripper unit when the last workcycle was aborted, the
system will notify the operator via an error message on screen. The operator can then select
to put the rackset aside onto the drop position (see button description at chapter 2.3.7).
From there the rackset would have to be manually removed by the operator.

Software Description cobas p 671
2.4.3 Menu Structure on User Login

After logging in as user, 2 main menu items (of 5 in total) are available to operate the system:
'Routine' and 'Maintenance'. The following figure depicts a schematic overview of the menu
structure provided by the graphical user interface as accessible via the user login.
Submenu
'Routine' ▶
'Main Screen'
Submenu
'Routine' ▶
'Sorting Lists' *
Main menu
'Routine'
Submenu
'Routine' ▶
'Information System' *
Submenu
'Routine' ▶
'Clear Data'
Login
Submenu
'Maintenance' ▶
'Service Cycles'
Submenu
Main menu
'Maintenance' ▶
'Maintenance'
'Error History'
Submenu
'Maintenance' ▶
'Date, Time, Day'
Figure 2-42: Menu structure
* functionality restricted to systems equipped with a barcode reader
When logging in by means of service technician credentials, additional menus become

available. Refer to the service manual, chapter 'Software Description' for detail.

2.4.4 Routine
The main menu item 'Routine' contains all programs necessary for daily routine work on the
system.
• Main Screen (see chapter 2.4.5 for detail)
• Sorting Lists (see chapter 2.4.7 for detail)
• Information System (see chapter 2.4.8 for detail)
• Clear Data (see chapter 2.4.9 for detail)
2.4.5 Routine ► Main Screen

The program 'Main Screen' makes it possible for you to monitor and control the course of
sample processing in the system. The current operating state, status information and, if
applicable, error messages are displayed.
Figure 2-43: Submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen' (example)
A Main menu K Status field

B Submenu L Rack transport positions
C [Buzzer off] button M Detailed view of output tray (optional)
D [Open Gripper] button N Rack storages RSP1 - RSP3
E [Slide Rack] button O Balance racks
F Process stations along the rack transport P Centrifuge storages
G Rack storage area Q Urgent sample input
H [Work cycle] button R [Standby] button
I Display of active work cycle S [Run] button
J [Logout] button

2.4.5.1 Buttons
When a button is temporarily inactive, its marking is faded.
Press the [Run] button to start processing samples or restart this

process should a work flow have been interrupted by pressing the
[Standby] button. The interlocking circuits of the protective
doors are also activated.
The [Standby] button is activated when sample processing is
started by pressing the [Run] button. The standby function stops
the work flow. Only the work step (of the gripper for example)
currently in progress is completed. The protective doors are
unlocked and it is possible to reach into the storage area without
risk.
If the system is programmed with more than one routine work
cycle or 'Clear Data' has been executed shortly, the desired work
cycle must be selected before sample processing is started. The
[Work cycle] button is active if operations have not been started
yet or the system is in standby mode. When the button is pressed,
a window is displayed wherein the user can touch/click the
desired work cycle to make a selection.
A clearly perceivable signal sounds if an error message is issued
that leads to the work flow routine being interrupted. The work
flow remains halted until the cause has been rectified. Press the
[Buzzer off] button to turn off the warning sound abortively.
The [Open Gripper] button causes the gripper fingers to open up.
This function can only be used during standby mode (unless
caused by an error).
CAUTION
The [Open Gripper] button may only be pressed, if the rackset held by the gripper
is secured by hand and cannot drop down below! Only after pressing [OK] in the
upcoming confirmation request the gripper is eventually opened.
This button is only visible if the system is connected to a

subsequent one (e.g. cobas p 612). In case the communication
between both systems fails, the [Slide Rack] button is utilized to
slide a rack that remained on the transport belt off onto the
output tray.

2.4.5.2 Status field

Individual or several items of status information are displayed in the status field.
Example for status information:
Figure 2-44: Status field, example
The status information on display does not affect current operation in any way, but may
contain instructions for the operator to follow.
2.4.5.3 Display of the active work cycle

As soon as a work cycle is running, its designation is displayed on screen below.
Figure 2-45: Display of the active work cycle
The work cycle remains active until another one is selected, the system is rebooted or a data
reorganization is performed.
2.4.5.4 Rack Transport: Positions

The transport positions and the processing status of all the sample tubes within the racks
between input and output tray are shown on screen. Each rack is represented by a
rectangular symbol. Recognition, process and transport status of the sample tubes within the
racks are indicated by different coloring of the individual squares.
Figure 2-46: Rack transport
The digits displayed within each square represent a subsequent number assigned to every
tube upon input. This subsequent number belongs to the tube in foremost position within
the rack.
Color Meaning
Brown Status unknown (clear-out sequence after system start)
White Position not occupied
Red Rack has error status
Gray Tube type not yet identified
Blue Tube type 1
Dark blue Tube type 1, centrifuged
Blue checkered Dummy rack for tube type 1
Green Tube type 2
Dark green Tube type 2, centrifuged
Green checkered Dummy rack for tube type 2
Yellow Tube type 3
Dark yellow Tube type 3, centrifuged
Yellow checkered Dummy rack for tube type 3

2.4.5.5 Rack Transport: Job Steps

The symbols beneath the rack transport depiction represent different stations along the rack
transport. At these stations, the racks are either moved onto the rack transport (e.g. at the
input trays), having the tubes within identified by cap recognition or pushed towards the
rack storages RSP1 through RSP3 (removal positions).
Figure 2-47: Rack transport with transfer positions
A Transfer positions D Transfer position

Input trays ► Rack transport Internal output position ► Rack transport
B Tube type recognition E Output tray /
C Transfer positions: Rack transport ►

Transfer to subsequent system.
Rack storages RSP1 - RSP3 Also serves as a button for manual
exchange of the output tray.
Symbol Meaning
Transfer position onto the rack transport
Transfer position from the rack transport
Position for tube type recognition
Heading of the rack transport belt

2.4.5.6 Detailed view of output tray (optional)

The optionally available detail view of the output tray (physically located within the input
sorter of the interconnected system) depicts the (error) states of all its contained tubes.
Above all, this depiction facilitates the early detection of massed occurrences of particular
errors (e.g. in case of barcode read errors).
The utilized color coding is listed in the table below:
Figure 2-48: Output tray (detail view)
Color Meaning
white no rack
light gray position was initially empty
dark grey tube has been transferred to input sorter
blue not centrifuged (type RSP1)
green not centrifuged (type RSP2)
yellow not centrifuged (type RSP3)
blue, checkered dummy tube (type RSP1)
green, checkered dummy tube (type RSP2)
yellow, checkered dummy tube (type RSP3)
orange bar code read error
red centrifugation error
purple error in host communication
pink unknown tube type

2.4.5.7 Storage Area

Beneath the depiction of the rack transport and its transfer positions, the storage area is
displayed, containing all positions and rack storages (= buttons for individual racksets).
Positioning, tube type and processing state of every individual rackset is depicted by different
coloring and character-markings. Furthermore the processing of every individual rackset can
be monitored on screen in real-time.
Figure 2-49: Storage area
A Rack storages for reception of racks from D Centrifuge storages

the transport belt
B Transfer positions for centrifuged racksets E Rack storages for urgent samples
Racks towards the transport belt
C Balance racks
Color Meaning
Grey Empty rack storage
Black in transfer by the gripper (only briefly visible)
Blue Rackset containing tube type 1, not centrifuged
Green Rackset containing tube type 2, not centrifuged
Yellow Rackset containing tube type 3, not centrifuged
Dark blue Rackset containing tube type 1, centrifuged
Dark green Rackset containing tube type 2, centrifuged
Dark yellow Rackset containing tube type 3, centrifuged
Blue checkered Balance rackset for tube type 1
Green checkered Balance rackset for tube type 2
Yellow checkered Balance rackset for tube type 3
Red Error on centrifugation of the rackset

Symbol Meaning
empty rack storage
one rack on the rack storage

(1786 = lowest incremental number of all tubes within the rackset)
two racks on the rack storage
complete rackset on the rack storage
A dark coloring indicates the centrifugation process completed.
Suffixed characters and numbers contain information about the processing status of the
rackset:
Suffix Meaning
–T Waiting period elapsed (> 30 min) or rackset prioritized.
–U Rackset has been issued for prioritized centrifugation by the operator.
–1, –2 Rackset centrifuged by either centrifuge 1 or 2.
2.4.5.8 Rack storages for reception of racks from the transport belt
Within either work cycle, the system can handle three different tube types at the same time.
For the purpose of receiving and collecting the corresponding racks from the rack transport
belt, there are three separate rack storages RSP1 through RSP3 (one for each tube type). Each
of these rack storages collects three racks of the same tube type from the transport belt.
When a set of three racks is completed, the gripper moves the rackset onto the storage area.
Symbol Meaning
RSP1 is the rack gathering storage for receiving racks of tube type 1.

2.4.5.9 Storages for racksets

Rack storages are used for the supply of racksets.
Symbol Meaning
empty rack storage
storage occupied with rackset
The depictions of the rack storages can be operated like buttons. On activation of a rack
storage button (via touch screen or by left-clicking with the left stick button), a window
appears similar to the one displayed below:
Figure 2-50: Rackset information window with buttons
Apart from data on position, time span until timer expiry, tube type and assigned centrifuge
program, this window also contains command buttons.
The [Centrifuge] button initiates a prioritized centrifugation. Also, racksets with
centrifugation errors (colored in red) can be centrifuged repeatedly by means of this button.
In such cases, the rackset would be taken from the storage area back into either centrifuge.
Button Function
Centrifuge rackset immediately
Close the window
When utilizing a prioritized centrifugation, racksets of equal tube type currently present on
the storage area may be additionally loaded into the centrifugation chamber. If necessary,
balance racks will be added as well.

2.4.5.10 Balance racks

Balance racks are needed when uneven numbers of racksets (1 or 3) are to be centrifuged.
The tubes inside those balance racks comply with the ones to be centrifuged, but are filled
with water. To each tube type, two racksets for balancing purposes are available.
Prior to starting a work cycle it has to be assured that all balance rack positions are filled. If
necessary, balance racks have to be replenished.
Symbol Meaning
Storage for balance racks to tube type 1
2.4.5.11 Dummy racks

During operation a situation can occur, where sample racks placed in the transfer storages
RSP1, RSP2 or RSP3 exceed their sample processing time limit.
This happens when only one or two sample racks remain on either transfer storage for a
prolonged time. If the rack(s) needed for completion of a rackset are not forthcoming, the
time limit for sample processing will eventually elapse.
The system will then switch into standby mode and the signal lamp on top of the system will
turn RED + YELLOW. You'll find a message in the status field stating '652 Please feed
DUMMY rack(s) into the system', together with information about the concerning tube type
and the required number.
This message instructs the operator to manually insert one or two dummy rack(s) containing
the corresponding tube type manually via the rack input station and to continue operation.
After processing is completed, the operator has to remove those dummy racks again from the
output tray.
NOTICE
Always keep two dummy racks per tube type handy in close range to the system!
These dummy racks should be clearly marked in order to be easily identified within the output tray.
2.4.5.12 Centrifuge storages

The load and processing state of the centrifuges can be seen by means of the centrifuge
storage symbols. Each centrifuge hosts either 2 or 4 racksets during centrifugation.
Example of a centrifuge
Example of a fully loaded
loaded with one rackset
centrifuge prior to
and one balance rackset
centrifugation
Figure 2-51 Figure 2-52
after centrifugation
A colored centrifuge storage means a rackset in place. Additionally loaded balance racks are
depicted as checkered and do not contain samples to be processed.
A darker coloring marks the completion of the centrifugation process.

2.4.5.13 Urgent sample storages

Both symbols for urgent sample storages work like buttons.
In order to process urgent samples, the system first has to be switched into standby mode.
For this, press the [Standby] button in the lower right corner of the screen.
As soon as an emergency rackset is fed to the system, its tube type has to be registered with
the system (type 1, 2 or 3). In order to do this, press the urgent sample storage button on the
touch screen (repeatedly), until it resembles the color used for the corresponding tube type.
Figure 2-53: Urgent sample buttons
Now switch the system back to operational mode. The registered urgent sample will be
recognized immediately and marked with a "T" as being prioritized:
Figure 2-54: Urgent sample marked
Following the prioritized centrifugation, the urgent sample rackset is placed back into its
storage. The now darker coloring of the urgent sample button indicates the emergency
rackset having been processed.
Figure 2-55: Urgent sample buttons after prioritized centrifugation
Now the rackset can be removed from the emergency storage again.
Once again switch the system into standby mode, remove the emergency rackset and log it
out by pressing the correspondent storage button once more.
Then resume operation by using the [Run] button.
2.4.5.14 Transferring centrifuged racks onto the transport belt

Centrifuged racksets, after being removed from the centrifuge by the gripper, are placed
either on an available rack storage or directly to the transfer position for the transport belt.

2.4.6 General buttons on subsequent screens
[Abort] You can cancel the current work step by pressing the [Abort] button. For
example, you can use this to abort a running program, discard an
initiated change or to abort accepting a selection.
[OK] The [OK] button is used to confirm the previous work step. This work
step may have been an entry, a change or a selection.
[New] The [New] button creates a new data record. Adjust the settings of the
menu item in the new data record.
[Edit] Use the [Edit] button to modify an existing data record. First select the
data record with [Search], [Forward] or [Backward].
[Delete] This button deletes the currently displayed data record. Select the
corresponding record before by using the buttons [Search], [Forward] or
[Backward].
[Search] Use the [Search]-button to find an existing data record. Enter the
searched term (e.g. abbreviation, barcode, file name, etc.) in the search
field. Wildcards (such as '*' and '?') may not be used.
[Forward] You can use the [Forward] button to scroll through existing data records
in ascending alphabetical order.
[Backward] You can use the [Backward] button to scroll through existing data
records in descending alphabetical order.
[Print] The [Print] button allows you to access a selection menu. Here you
indicate the print range and decide whether it should be displayed on-
screen or transmitted directly to the printer.
Printing is carried out on the printer that is connected to the system.

2.4.7 Routine ► Sorting Lists

On systems equipped with the optional barcode scanner, the 'Sorting Lists' menu item is used
to display the occupancy data for the rack output tray, located on the input sorter of the
adjacent system.
The occupancy data is continuously updated during runtime of the work cycle.
NOTICE
The displayed list is a mere snapshot of the occupancy data and will not be updated dynamically.
To manually update the list, leave this menu item and invoke it again.
Figure 2-56: Submenu 'Sorting Lists' (exemplary)
The occupancy data includes:

• Positions with details on the rack and the tube position within the rack
• Barcodes, if they have been read resp. identified
• Error texts in terms of a brief description of the occurred error
The following errors can be displayed:

• "barcode read error"
• "tube type not registered"
• "camera system communication error"
• "faulty or no answer from host"
• "error during cap recognition"
• "centrifugation error"
• "inhomogeneous rack load"
When invoking this submenu item, the output is initially blank. Press the [Display] button to
show the output tray's sorting list.

Buttons
[Display]
Pressing the [Display] button will invoke a spreadsheet table on screen comprising all
available occupancy data on the rack output tray.
The table is divided into 4 columns:
serial number Every individual sorting position within the list is marked with a
consecutive 3-digit number.
Rack number / The information in this column is subdivided by a slash.

Tube position The left figure denotes the rack, based on a continuous count
beginning at the rack closest to the output tray's removal slide by the
time the list has been created.
The right figure denotes the tube's position within the rack. Counting
starts at the rightmost position of the rack.
Barcode The barcode as read from the tube's label. If an entry of this column
remained empty, some error has likely prevented the reading and/or
identification of the barcode during the tube's processing.
Error text Corresponds to either of the error texts listed above and allows a more
elaborate troubleshooting.
Note that the term "- empty -" means that this particular position had
already been empty by the time this particular rack was fed into the
system.
In case the occupancy data contains more records than can be displayed at once, the option
"next? YES/NO" will be available below the list.
In such a case, press the [ENTER] key in order to proceed to the next page of the list.
NOTICE
Rack positions of correctly processed tubes are omitted from the sorting list and thus will not show.
[OK]
-without function-
[Abort]
-without function-

2.4.8 Routine ► Information System

The sample data listed in this menu are split onto two separate forms:
Orders (see chapter 2.4.8.1 for details)
•
Cam (see chapter 2.4.8.2 for details)
•
The time span comprehended by this submenu item depends on the setting for 'Archive
Days' (menu 'Service' ▶ 'Extended Menu' ▶ 'Configuration' ▶ 'Customer Configuration').
Only information contained in the amount of days set there will be available for display.
NOTICE
This submenu item is available exclusively on systems equipped with a barcode reader.
2.4.8.1 Orders
All the patient's data available in the system are displayed as well as the corresponding order
for centrifugation.
The corresponding tube's type, as determined by the camera module, can be displayed by
clicking the [Cam] button.
A
B
C
Figure 2-57: Submenu 'Information System - Orders'
A Patient's data
B Buttons
C ordered for centrifugation (Yes/No)
NOTICE
All information contained in the 'Orders' view is displayed as transmitted by the host and does not
necessarily reflect the factual status of the sample! For example, if an error occurs on a sample
which actually is displayed to be centrifuged, this sample might eventually (and contrary to the
displayed status) not become centrifuged at all.

Program fields
Barcode The barcode number is a unique identification of a patient sample. You can
search for a particular barcode by pressing the [Search] button.
NOTICE
Several tubes from one patient could be in the laboratory if, for example, a doctor sent several tubes
from the same patient to the laboratory. Depending on the host's organization, multiple tubes with
the same barcode number could exist for one patient.
Date The date when the patient's data has been entered. This date is either
transmitted by the host or substituted by the system using the current date.
Example: 20070223 = YYYYMMDD (Y = year, M = month, D = day).
Time Time of patient registration. This time is either transmitted by the host or the
system enters the current time.
Example: 075701 = HHMMSS (H = hour, M = minute, S = second).
Surname Surname of the patient.
First name First name of the patient.
Sex The patient’s gender.
Date of birth The patient’s date of birth.
Example: 19750120 = YYYYMMDD (Y = year, M = month, D = day).
Centrifuge This information will state according to the host's order, whether the sample
Sample is to be centrifuged.
Buttons
[Abort] Discards any entries made.

[OK] Confirms your entries. Used here to initiate a database search.
[Search] Use this button to find an existing data record by its barcode.
Enter the desired barcode into the corresponding array and press [OK].
Placeholders (such as '*' and '?') may not be used.
[Forward] Utilized to scroll through existing data records in ascending order.
[Backward] Utilized to scroll through existing data records in descending order.
[Orders] -no function here- (invokes the currently displayed view)
[Cam] Utilized to switch to the view on cap recognition data provided by the
camera system (see chapter 2.4.8.2 for further information).

2.4.8.2 Cam
All the patient's data available in the system are displayed as well as the corresponding tube's
type (as determined by the camera module).
The corresponding order for centrifugation can be displayed by clicking the [Orders] button.
B
C
Figure 2-58: Submenu 'Information System - Cam'
A Patient's data
B Buttons
C Tube type of the corresponding sample
Program fields
The upper part of the form is identical to the initial 'Orders' view (see previous chapter).
Tube type Tube type of the sample corresponding to the selected patient. In case this
information is not transmitted by the host, the system utilizes the tube type
determined by the camera system (cap recognition).
Buttons
[Abort] Discards any entries made.

[OK] Confirms your entries. Used here to initiate a database search.
[Search] Use this button to find an existing data record by its barcode.
Enter the desired barcode into the corresponding array and press [OK].
Placeholders (such as '*' and '?') may not be used.
[Forward] Utilized to scroll through existing data records in ascending order.
[Backward] Utilized to scroll through existing data records in descending order.
[Orders] Utilized to switch to the view on centrifugation orders stated within the
system's order database (see chapter 2.4.8.1 for further information).
[Cam] -no function here- (invokes the currently displayed view)

2.4.9 Routine ► Clear Data
Figure 2-59: Submenu 'Clear Data'
The 'Clear Data' program is used to delete all status data the system currently has stored. This
includes e.g. information about positions and processing state of sample tubes, sequential
numbers and error lists.
NOTICE
Prior to carrying out the 'Clear Data' procedure, the system must be set to Standby mode using the
submenu item 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'.
After completion of the 'Clear Data' program, all sorter targets start counting at position 1
again. Consecutive numbers begin with "1", too.
Start the program by pressing the [OK] button. As soon as it has been completed, a
corresponding message will state so on screen.
CAUTION
After completion of the 'Clear Data' program, the system contains no data about
any rack's position or occupancy anymore. Hence it must be cleared of all
remaining racks on the sorting area.
Racks still located anywhere on the rack transport will automatically be
transported to the rack output once a new workcycle is started.
Racksets located inside either of the centrifuges have to be removed as well.
(Refer to chapter 'maintenance' for details on how to open the centrifuge.)
The balance racksets on their prescribed positions may remain. Balance racksets
that were in use by the time of the 'Clear Data' procedure will have to be manually
put back onto their original positions on the sorting area.

2.4.10 Maintenance
The main menu item 'Maintenance' contains the following sub menu items:
• Service Cycles (see chapter 2.4.11 for details)
• Error History (see chapter 2.4.12 for details)
• Date, Time, Day (see chapter 2.4.13 for details)
2.4.11 Maintenance ► Service Cycles

The 'Service Cycles' program contains an overview of all maintenance counters. These
counters serve as a lookup table for service hours of the various components of the system.
Certain parts of the system must be maintained or exchanged upon prescribed intervals.
Figure 2-60: Submenu 'Service Cycles'
Column Description
Total Counter reading since initial operation.
Alarm Number of cycles until next maintenance.
Current Counter reading since the last maintenance by a service technician.
Date Date of last maintenance.
After completion of the maintenance on specific parts of the system, their corresponding
counters can be reset individually. For this purpose, an additional column of [Reset] buttons
is displayed under service login. These buttons are hidden when the system's operator is
logged in by means of User credentials.
NOTICE
The headline 'Camera Module' and its counters (as depicted in the above figure) will only appear on
systems equipped with a barcode scanner.

2.4.12 Maintenance ► Error History

This menu is utilized to display log files containing information about host communication
events and errors that occurred during operation of the system. Log files can be helpful for
system diagnosis and troubleshooting procedures. Two different log files can be selected:
• Error listing : contains specifically all available information about serious system errors.
• Host communication : displays all available log file information concerning
communication with the host.
2.4.12.1 Error listing

The 'Error listing' log view displays all available error information present in the system.
Error messages in the logfile have a syntax like this:
TUUUUUU-DDDD:PPPPPPPPPP¦NNNN¦FF/IIII
MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
Character Meaning Description
T Message type Code for the message type.
(1 character) The following message types are differentiated:
• "D" (Documentation)
• "U" (User)
• "F" (Fatal errors)
• "E" (Intentionally triggered or unavoidable
errors without negative impact on the
system, i.e. motor errors)
• "T" (Trace)
• "A" (General)
• "I" (Input)
• "O" (Output)
• "S" (System status)
U System time Displayed as HHMMSS
(6 characters) (HH: hours, MM: minutes, SS: seconds).
D Date Displayed as DDMM
(4 characters) (DD: days, MM: months).
P Program name Every program has an internal name that is
(10 characters) displayed here together with the unit number.
N Message number Message number for the detailed message text.
(4 characters)
F Internal error number QNX provides a number of low level error messages.
QNX (2 characters) A list is available in the QNX manual.
I Internal error number Returncode or numerical value detailed within the
Roche PVT or value message text.
(4 characters)
M Text of the message Detailed message description.
(up to 60 characters)

Figure 2-61: Submenu 'Error History'
The error message selected in the picture above provides the following information:
Line Section Description

F Fatal error
095842 System time when the error occurred (HHMMSS)
2303 Date when the error occurred (DDMM)
stat_mgr0 Name of the program that issued the error
0122 Error message number
03 Internal error number QNX
0000 Internal error number Roche PVT
122 Task <comm_astm0> not started Error description
NOTICE
The error log file information can be helpful to trace errors during installation and system setup
and for general troubleshooting. Refer to the service manual, chapter 'Troubleshooting' for detailed
information about error messages and remedies.
Button [Reset]
The current error list will be cleared after pressing the [Reset] button.
2.4.12.2 Host communication

The Host communication log view displays all available log file information concerning
communication with the host.
Select "Host communication" from the drop-down menu to display the log file information.
Figure 2-62: Submenu 'Error History - Host communication'
Button [Reset]
The current error list will be cleared after pressing the [Reset] button.

2.4.13 Maintenance ► Date, Time, Day

This program is used to set the date, time and weekday in the system.
NOTICE
If the system is connected to a subsequent cobas p 512 or 612, both time and date will be adopted
from there during the boot procedure. In this case, the corresponding local settings (as described
below) will be overwritten.
Figure 2-63: Submenu 'Date, Time, Day'
Date
Date of the current day.
The date is entered in DD.MM.YYYY format. Example: 26.01.2013.
NOTICE
Whenever you change the date, you will also have to change the day of the week!
Time
Current time, entered in HH:MM (24h) format.
Day of the week

Weekday in accordance with the entered date. Valid entries are listed for convenient
selection. Click on the list item that fits the entered date.
NOTICE
In order to detect and prevent misentries, the system automatically cross checks the entries at 'Date'
and 'Day of the week'. If date and weekday do not match, an error message is displayed on the status
line below. The entries will then have to be corrected.


Part C
3. Operation
cobas p 671
II Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671
3. Operation...................................................................................................... I
3.1. Commissioning the system ...................................................................... 3-1
3.2. Daily routine ................................................................................................. 3-1
3.2.1 Notice on operating the protective cover ............................................................ 3-1
3.3. Preparations for routine operation ......................................................... 3-2
3.3.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.3.2 Trouble-free operating procedures ........................................................................ 3-3
3.3.3 Turn on devices.............................................................................................................. 3-3
3.3.4 Login .................................................................................................................................. 3-3
3.3.5 System test....................................................................................................................... 3-3
3.3.6 Submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen' ..................................................................... 3-4
3.3.7 Database Reorganization ........................................................................................... 3-5
3.3.8 Preparing an empty output tray ............................................................................... 3-6
3.3.9 Preparing dummy racks.............................................................................................. 3-6
3.3.10 Providing a complete set of balance racks ......................................................... 3-7
3.3.11 Selecting the work cycle ............................................................................................ 3-7
3.3.12 Loading initial sample racks ..................................................................................... 3-8
3.4. Routine operation ....................................................................................... 3-9
3.4.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................... 3-9
3.4.2 Start sample processing .......................................................................................... 3-10
3.4.2.1 Information about processing and transport status ................................ 3-11
3.4.3 Interrupting operation .............................................................................................. 3-12
3.4.3.1 [Standby] button ..................................................................................................... 3-12
3.4.3.2 Main switch I/O....................................................................................................... 3-12
3.4.4 Respond to error messages ................................................................................... 3-13
3.4.5 Reloading and unloading the rack trays ........................................................... 3-14
3.4.5.1 Replenishing an empty input tray ................................................................... 3-14
3.4.5.2 Replenishing a partly loaded input tray ........................................................ 3-14
3.4.5.3 Feeding dummy racks .......................................................................................... 3-15
3.4.5.4 Manually sliding a rack onto the output tray ............................................. 3-15
3.4.5.5 Emptying / replacing the output tray ............................................................. 3-16
3.4.6 Centrifuge urgent samples ..................................................................................... 3-17
3.4.7 Centrifuge samples ahead of schedule ............................................................. 3-18
3.4.8 Ending sample processing ..................................................................................... 3-18
3.5. Terminating work operation after daily routine .................................3-19
3.5.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................ 3-19
3.5.2 Logout / shutting down the system .................................................................... 3-20
3.5.3 Inspecting the transfer area ................................................................................... 3-20
3.5.4 Care and maintenance procedures..................................................................... 3-20
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 III

cobas p 671
IV Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Commissioning the system
3.1. Commissioning the system

You must read the Operator’s Manual with the utmost care and attention before using the
system for the first time. Particular attention should be paid to descriptions of hazards and
precautions!
CAUTION
The power connection must be appropriate to the system and be
connected to the system by a qualified person. If the permitted current is
exceeded, the fuses will be triggered and power will be shut off to the
system.
The system floor plan is shown in part F 'Appendix'.

The system is intended for connection to existing Roche PVT systems (such as cobas p 512
or 612) and should be installed operationally ready in the laboratory by service technicians.
Operator training for the system is given on location, in order to prepare the future operator
to be able to use the system safely and reliably without supervision.
3.2. Daily routine

Daily routine use of the system is considered to be six hours; the standby time is also
considered to be six hours. The system has been designed for an average 5-day working
week.
During daily use of the system, the sequence of operations can be divided into three stages:
• Preparatory work (please refer to section 3.3)
• Routine operation (please refer to section 0)
• Concluding work (please refer to section 3.5)
3.2.1 Notice on operating the protective cover

CAUTION
The protective cover can collide with the control unit during opening and
closing!
Make sure that the protective cover does not collide with the control unit during opening
and closing (refer to Figure 3-1). Swing the control unit to the right if necessary.
Figure 3-1: Protective cover – control unit
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-1

Preparations for routine operation cobas p 671
3.3. Preparations for routine operation

3.3.1 Overview
Inspect connections and transfer area

Check that the mains plug and compressed-air supply are
correctly connected.
Carefully check the transfer area and rack conveyor for foreign
objects such as sample tubes (including parts of tubes) and
racks.
Turn on devices in the following order

1. Compressed air supply
2. Connected system(s)
3. Centrifuges
4. cobas p 671
Launch the system software and prepare for operations

Log in once the system has started.
In the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Clear Data carry out the
reorganization of the system to delete all position information.
The system has to be cleared before operation can start.
Balance racks must stay in their dedicated positions! If
necessary, remove all racks except the balance racks from the
rack storages
The centrifuges must be empty. Remove remaining racks from
within the centrifuges.
Put an empty output tray into the connected system.
Make sure to have 2 dummy racks available for each tube type.
Loading the system

Place the primary sample tubes into 5-slot racks (MPA) and
load these into the rack trays in the input module or place a
loaded rack tray into the rack mount of the input module.
Add new balance racks if the corresponding positions on the
sorting area are empty.
Selecting the work cycle (optional)

To select the required work cycle, touch the [Work cycle]
button in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen.
3-2 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Preparations for routine operation
3.3.2 Trouble-free operating procedures

Follow the steps described below to ensure a trouble-free operation process:
• Connections: Check that the mains plug and compressed-air supply are correctly
connected.
• Check work area: Carefully check the transfer area and rack conveyor for foreign
objects such as sample tubes (including parts of tubes) and racks.
3.3.3 Turn on devices

1. Turn on the compressed-air supply for the system.
2. Turn on the connected system (cobas p 512 or 612).
3. Turn on the power supply to both centrifuges at the main switches.
4. Turn on the system at the mains switch (position 'I').
Figure 3-2: Centrifuge's mains switch Figure 3-3: Mains switch
The system now powers up, the system software launches and the login screen is displayed
on the touch screen monitor.
3.3.4 Login
The user login is pre-configured. Touch the [User-Login] button on the Login screen
without entering a user name or password in order to load the control program with access
rights for operators.
For more information about user and access rights, please refer to part B 'System
Description'.
3.3.5 System test

After Login, the system performs a self-diagnosis procedure. If faults occur during this
procedure, corresponding error messages are displayed in pop-up windows on the screen.
NOTICE
If system messages are shown during the log-in procedure (for example maintenance
pointers), make a note of them and confirm the messages by pressing the [OK] button.
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-3

3.3.6 Submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen'

The current system status is displayed in the status field.
Figure 3-4: Submenu 'Main Screen'

A Main menu K Status and information field
B Submenu L Rack transport
D [Open Gripper] button N Transfer positions RSP1, RSP2, RSP3
E [Slide Rack] button O Rack storage for balance racks
F Processing positions along the rack transport P Centrifuges
G Storage area Q Urgent samples rack storage
You can select the work cycle with the [Work Cycle] button (see chapter 3.3.11). You can
start operation by pressing the [Run] button (see chapter 3.4.2) after all necessary
preparations have been made.
Detailed information about the meaning and functions of the buttons as well as
hotkeys is contained in part B ‘System description’.
3-4 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

3.3.7 Database Reorganization

Before beginning with a new work cycle, the system must be reorganized. All status and
position information pertaining to sample processing procedures remaining in the memory
of the system are deleted during the reorganization process.
CAUTION
Before initiating a Clear Data procedure, ensure that all status and
position information as well as sorting lists are no longer required and
that there are no more racks left in the carriers within the centrifuge.
When the Clear Data procedure is finished, you have to remove all racks
from the rack storages and centrifuges (except balance racks on the
dedicated rack storages), as the system has no information about rack
positions any more.
1. Select the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Clear Data'.
Figure 3-5: Submenu 'Clear Data'

2. Press the [OK] button to confirm the clear data procedure.
3. Clear the transfer area: Open the protective cover and remove all racks except the
balance racks from the transfer area.
4. Empty the centrifuges: Check if there are still racks in the centrifuges and remove them.
Part D 'Maintenance' provides descriptions on how to pull out and open the centrifuges.
CAUTION
If there are still racks in the centrifuge, you must not take them out
through the hatch in the centrifuge lid!
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-5

3.3.8 Preparing an empty output tray

In the connected system or in the output module, an empty rack tray must be inserted to take
racks from the cobas p 671 system.
If there are already racks on the rack tray, replace the tray with an empty one (or empty the
current one) before you start sample processing.
NOTICE
If there are tubes left in the racks, these have been detected as incorrect. Feed the racks
again into the system. If the tubes are repeatedly not processed, you have to find and solve
the error (see part F 'Troubleshooting').
3.3.9 Preparing dummy racks

During operation, it is possible that racks in rackset buffers RSP1, RSP2 or RSP3 may exceed
the specified sample processing time. This happens if only one or two rack(s) remain on the
rackset buffer for a longer period of time.
In order to prevent long residence times on the rackset buffers, the system requires the
operator to timely add so-called "dummy racks".
NOTICE
Always keep two dummy racks each for the rackset buffers RSP1, RSP2 and RSP3 in close
vicinity of the system.
The tube types in the dummy racks must comply (in size and weight) with those used in
the current work cycle's configuration in order to minimize unbalances during
centrifugation.
1. Prepare 10 tubes for each of the three required tube types, fill them with an equal amount
of demineralized water and recap them.
2. Distribute each set of tubes into two 5-slot racks (MPA).
While loading the racks, make sure that the sample tubes with a diameter of 13.4 mm are
always placed in rack type 1 and sample tubes with a diameter of 13.4 to 16.3 mm are
always placed in rack type 2! The sample tubes must be inserted until they touch the
bottom of the rack.
3-6 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

3.3.10 Providing a complete set of balance racks

Add new balance racks manually if the corresponding positions on the sorting area are
empty. (Consult the folder with your individual customer specifications for information
about tube type assignment of the balance rack positions.)
Figure 3-6: Balance rack positions, completely filled
NOTICE
The tube types in the balance racks must be the same as those used in the current work
cycle to avoid unbalances during centrifugation.
3.3.11 Selecting the work cycle

If several work cycles are present in your system, you must select the required work cycle
before beginning with sample processing. The work cycle is active until a different one is
selected, the system is turned off and on again or a clear data command is initiated.
1. Press the [Work Cycle] button in the menu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'.
A selection window is displayed:
Figure 3-7: Window for selecting the work cycle

2. Select the required work cycle and press the [OK] button to confirm your choice.
(To cancel this task, press the [Abort] button.)
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-7

3.3.12 Loading initial sample racks

When it comes to preparing the system for operation, the procedure of initially loading the
input trays slightly differs from replenishing them during operation (which is described in
chapter 3.4.5.1).
1. Turn the feed levers to an upright position. (Later during operation, this is done
automatically once the corresponding rack tray has been emptied.)
2. Place the sample tubes into 5-slot racks (MPA). When loading the racks, make sure that
the sample tubes with a diameter of 13.4 mm are always placed in rack type 1 and sample
tubes with a diameter of 13.4 to 16.3 mm are always placed in rack type 2!
The sample tubes must rest against the bottom of the racks.
3. Place the racks with sample tubes directly into either of the input module's rack trays or,
alternatively, fill one rack tray with up to 30 racks and then place this into one of the input
module's tray mounts.
The racks should be level in the rack tray and properly engage the guide rail at the bottom
of the tray. The rack tray must be seated firmly in the tray mount.
A C
D
C
B D
Figure 3-8: Loading of racks

A Racks C Feed levers
B Tray mount D Rack trays
CAUTION
Pinching hazard: Never reach into the input module while the feed lever
is in motion!
3-8 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Routine operation
3.4. Routine operation

3.4.1 Overview
Start sample processing

Close both doors to the centrifuges and the protective door in
front of the storage area. Only then can you begin with
processing samples.
Touch the [Run] button in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main
Screen' (section 3.4.2).
Lower the input lever after the system has initialized.
Interrupt sample processing

You must touch the [Standby] button in the submenu
'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen' before you intervene in the system
for any reason (section 3.4.3).
Respond to error messages

The system is halted automatically if a malfunction occurs
during operations and an error message is displayed on the
monitor. Follow the troubleshooting instructions to correct
the fault and then touch the [Repeat] button to continue
operations (section 3.4.4).
Feed in dummy racks

Place the dummy racks, fully loaded with the corresponding
tube types, into the rack input module as soon as the request is
displayed in the status field of the submenu 'Routine  Main
Screen'. The system automatically enters the Standby mode
(section 3.4.5.3).
Loading and unloading the system in standby mode

Refill sample racks / replace rack tray. Empty / replace the rack
tray in the connected system (section 3.4.5).
Centrifuge urgent samples

Centrifuging urgent samples is possible in Standby mode
(section 3.4.6).
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-9

Routine operation cobas p 671
Centrifuge samples ahead of schedule

If, for reasons of urgency, certain racksets have to be
centrifuged immediately, an option is available to initiate this
procedure manually via the touch screen (section 3.4.7).
End sample processing

Press the [Standby] button in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main
Screen' after all samples have been processed.
3.4.2 Start sample processing
NOTICE
Before starting the system, both feed levers must be in the vertical position and all doors
of the system must be closed.
1. Close the protective cover.

2. Press the [Run] button in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'.
3. Wait until the system has initialized.
4. Tilt down the input lever(s) at the input module.
CAUTION
Pinching hazard: As soon as a feed lever is tilted down, it automatically
starts moving forward.
The system starts as soon as you tilt a feed lever. Exerting continuous force, the feed levers of
the input module push the sample racks onto the rack conveyor until there are no more racks
left or sample processing operations are disrupted.
The rest of the sample processing procedure is performed automatically and does not
generally require any further intervention by the operator.
3-10 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

3.4.2.1 Information about processing and transport status

Various buttons in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen' change color in accordance with
the processing and transport status of the sample racks.
Figure 3-9: Submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen' during operations
A Main menu K Status and information field

B Submenu L Rack transport
D [Open Gripper] button N Transfer positions RSP1, RSP2, RSP3
E [Slide Rack] button O Rack storage for balance racks
F Processing positions along the rack transport P Centrifuges
G Storage area Q Urgent samples rack storage
Positions during rack transport

The positions during transport and the processing statuses of the racks between the input
and output modules are displayed on the monitor. Each rack(set) is represented by a small
square symbol. Recognition, process and transport status of the rack(set)s are indicated by
the different colors of the individual small squares.
Further information about the display of rack transport is available in part B
'System Description'.
Rack output module

The rack output is displayed on the right side of the rack transport's display. From the rack
output, sample racks are transported to the output tray in the connected system (cobas p 512
or 612) after processing.
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-11

Storage area
The storage area is displayed below the rack transport and its transfer positions. All holding
positions, locations, slots and buttons for the racksets are displayed. Color coding or marking
by means of a letter for identification purposes facilitate tracking the position, sample type
and process status of each rack and rackset in real time.
See part B ‘System description’ for more information.
3.4.3 Interrupting operation

There are two methods of interrupting routine operations:
3.4.3.1 [Standby] button

The [Standby] button is always highlighted active during a work cycle. Pressing the
[Standby] button completes the current work step and then stops the system. To
subsequently continue with the work cycle, press the [Run] button.
Routine sample processing can be interrupted to load samples or empty racks, remove a full
rack tray from the output module or intervene in the system for any other reason.
1. Touch the [Standby] button in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'.
2. Wait until the current work step is finished and the sorting unit comes to a standstill at its
waiting position.
No movement functions are performed in standby mode. The individual motors and
cylinders of the system return to their home position and the protective door is unlocked.
You can use the [Standby] button at any time.
CAUTION
Do not reach into the storage area or the operating range of the gripper
unless in standby mode!
3.4.3.2 Main switch I/O

If you turn off the system during operation using the main switch, the system stops
immediately. The control unit (PC) is also turned off.
CAUTION
Turning off the system by means of the main switch can lead to loss of
data, contamination and may also damage the system.
Only use this type of interruption in the event of an emergency!
3-12 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

3.4.4 Respond to error messages

The system is halted automatically and set to the standby mode if a malfunction occurs
during operations and error messages are displayed on the monitor. A clearly audible
warning signal sounds if an error occurs. To turn off the warning signal for this error
message, press the [Buzzer off] button.
Figure 3-10: Example error message

Depending on the error message, different buttons are available for troubleshooting.
Restart the procedure that led to the error message being
issued.
Skip the procedure that led to the error message being issued.
End the procedure that led to the error message being issued.
Display suggestions to rectify the fault.
Show the log file with additional information concerning the

error.
1. Follow the instructions for troubleshooting given in the message text.

More information on individual error messages and troubleshooting is
available in part E 'Troubleshooting'.
2. If necessary, open the protective door to allow access to the transfer area. This may be
required by a troubleshooting instruction or if foreign objects, sample tubes (or tube
pieces) are lying in the transfer area, thus obstructing the sample processing.
CAUTION
Contact a service technician immediately if you are unsure if you
should access the transfer area or you do not fully understand a
troubleshooting instruction!
NOTICE
The system does not recognize a manual rack removal and would issue an error
message in the course of operation. To continue operating without interference, you
must insert a new rack in the same place after a rack has been removed manually (for
example, to rectify an error).
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-13

3.4.5 Reloading and unloading the rack trays

The initial loading of the input module is already described in chapter 3.3.12. The
instructions following below refer to the handling of racks and trays once the system's
operation has been initiated.
3.4.5.1 Replenishing an empty input tray

Once all sample racks have been fed from one of the input trays onto the rack conveyor
during operation, its feed lever automatically turns into an upright position and moves back
to its start position. Proceed as described ex step #0 of chapter 3.4.5.2 to reload the tray and
resume the feeding process.
3.4.5.2 Replenishing a partly loaded input tray
NOTICE
For this procedure to begin, the input tray's feed lever must be in an idle state (neither
moving nor pressing against the racks before it). Otherwise, lifting it might result in a
malfunction.
1. Turn the input tray's feed lever to an upright position. It will automatically move back to
its start position.
CAUTION
Pinching hazard: Do not reach into the input module while either feed
lever is in motion!
2. Load the sample tubes into 5-slot racks (MPA). Make sure that sample tubes with a
diameter of 13.4 mm are always placed in rack type 1 and sample tubes with a diameter of
13.4 to 16.3 mm are always placed in rack type 2! Take particular care that the sample
tubes rest against the bottom of the racks!
3. Put the loaded 5-slot racks (MPA) into the rack tray of the input module or, alternatively,
fill another rack tray with up to 30 loaded racks and replace this against the one on the
input module.
NOTICE
The racks must be level within the rack tray and properly engage the guide rail on the
bottom of the tray. The tray must be seated firmly in the input module's tray mount.
4. Tilt the feed lever down again. It will automatically move forward and resume the feeding
process.
CAUTION
Pinching hazard: Do not reach into the input module while either feed
lever is in motion!
3-14 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

3.4.5.3 Feeding dummy racks

During operation, it is possible that racks in rackset buffers RSP1, RSP2 or RSP 3 may exceed
the specified sample processing time. This happens if only one or two rack(s) remain on the
rackset buffer for a longer period of time. The sample processing time will be exceeded if no
additional rack(s) arrive to complete the rackset.
In this case, the message 'Feed dummy racks' with additional information concerning
number and tube type is displayed in the status field, asking you to feed one or two dummy
racks of the appropriate type into the input module.
The required procedure does not differ from replenishing the system's input trays with
regular sample racks as described in chapter 3.4.5.2. The handling of processed dummy racks
(respectively the tubes inside) however vary, depending on whether the system is equipped
with a barcode scanner or not:
On systems without barcode scanner

After processing, the dummy racks are transported onto the output tray of the subsequent
system and have to be manually removed from there. See chapter 3.4.5.5 for instructions on
how to unload the output tray.
On systems with barcode scanner

Every tube inside a dummy rack has to be labeled with a barcode known to the host LIS as
these tubes will be processed like regular sample tubes on the subsequent system. Thus the
host LIS must have a way to separate the dummy racks' tubes from the regular ones (for
example, by assigning an individual sorting target).
It is highly recommended to remove the tubes from the subsequent system's output sorter as
soon as possible in order to rebuild the processed dummy racks. This would ensure their
availability at the time they are needed again. See the subsequent system's manual for
instructions on how to properly unload target racks on its output sorter.
3.4.5.4 Manually sliding a rack onto the output tray

When the cobas p 671 is in standby mode, a rack at the output station (located within the
connected system's input sorter) can be manually removed onto the output tray by pressing
the [Slide rack] button in the submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen'.
Be aware that the rack to be removed might still contain regular (faultless) tubes!
CAUTION
In order to prevent malfunctions, the connected system must be in
standby mode as well. Otherwise the connected system's sorting unit
might try to pick up tubes from the rack in question at the very same time
when it is being moved onto the output tray. This would likely result in a
collision between the sorting gripper and the displaced tubes.
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-15

3.4.5.5 Emptying / replacing the output tray

When the 30th rack has been pushed onto the output tray on the connected system, a
warning message is displayed on the status field of the 'Main Screen' submenu, prompting
you to empty or replace the output tray. If this warning is ignored and yet another rack is to
be pushed onto the now completely occupied output tray, the system will issue an error
message and halt.
1. Press the [Standby] button on the connected system and wait for its operation to stop.
2. Open the protective door and remove the racks from the output tray or replace the filled
tray with an empty one.
3. Close the protective door again and touch the [Run] button on the connected system to
resume its operation.
4. On the cobas p 671, press the [Repeat] button of the error message window. The system
will then resume its operation as well.
3-16 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

3.4.6 Centrifuge urgent samples

In order to be able to centrifuge particularly urgent samples, the system has rack storages for
placing up to two full racksets. The actual work cycle must be interrupted with [Standby] to
centrifuge the urgent samples with priority.
NOTICE
The urgent samples' tube type must be registered in the currently running work cycle.
Urgent samples are put on dedicated emergency rack storages. Two racksets at a maximum
can be fed in as urgent samples. Proceed as follows to feed in urgent samples into the system:
1. Touch the [Standby] button to interrupt operation.
2. Open the protective cover.
3. Put a rackset with urgent samples into the rack storage for emergency samples.
Figure 3-11: Rack storage for urgent samples

4. Press the corresponding urgent sample rack storage button in the 'Routine' ▶ 'Main
screen' submenu (several times) until the color is displayed which corresponds to the
available tube type.
5. Close the protective cover and continue operation by pressing the [Run] button.
The entered urgent sample is registered, marked with a 'T' for prioritized processing and
processed for centrifugation.
Urgent The tube type Urgent samples Urgent samples

samples of urgent will be have been
buttons samples has centrifuged as centrifuged and
been defined quickly as are ready for
possible unloading
Figure 3-12 Scheme of the 'Urgent Samples' button
After prioritized centrifugation, the urgent samples are put back to their initial position. The
dark color of the [Urgent Samples] buttons indicates that the urgent sample rackset has been
processed.
6. Touch the [Standby] button to interrupt operations again.
7. Open the protective cover and remove the urgent sample rackset. Press the corresponding
rack storage button again to check out the rackset (the button color turns back to gray).
8. Close the protective cover and continue operation by pressing the [Run] button.
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-17

3.4.7 Centrifuge samples ahead of schedule

Should events dictate that a certain rackset must be centrifuged as a matter of priority,
(before the determined timeout or before enough racksets are available) or if you want it to
be centrifuged at the next possible opportunity, press the depiction of the corresponding
rackset in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'.
NOTICE
This function is not available for incomplete racksets on storages RSP1, RSP2 and RSP3.
1. Press the corresponding rack storage button of the rackset (that you want to centrifuge
ahead of schedule at the next occasion) in the 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen' submenu.
A pop-up window is displayed:
Figure 3-13: Window that appears after pressing a rack storage button (example)
2. Touch the [Centrifuge] button to centrifuge the rackset ahead of schedule. The letter 'U' is
displayed on the selected transfer area button. If racks of the same tube type are available
in the transfer area, they will also be centrifuged. If necessary, a balance rackset is also
loaded.
3. Touch the [Back] button to close the window.
Figure 3-14: Rackset selected for centrifuging ahead of schedule
Refer to part B 'System description' for more information about the rack
storage buttons.
3.4.8 Ending sample processing

1. Ensure that all racks have been processed and that no sample racks remain on the storage
area or the rack conveyor. Check whether the centrifuges are empty.
2. Touch the [Standby] button in the submenu 'Routine' ▶ 'Main Screen'.
3-18 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Terminating work operation after daily routine
3.5. Terminating work operation after daily routine

3.5.1 Overview
Performing a 'Clear Data' reorganization (optional)

The Clear Data procedure can be performed optionally after
terminating sample processing operations. If performed
now, the function does not have to be carried out at the
beginning of the next work cycle (section 3.3.7).
Log out / shut down system

Press the [Logout] button.
Confirm that you wish to log out in the window displayed

next.
To shutdown the system, press the [Shutdown] button in the

Login screen (section 3.5.2).
Turn off system

Power down the cobas p 671,
its centrifuges and
the connected system.
Inspect transfer area

Check if the transfer area and rack conveyor for objects such
as caps, spilt fluids or sample material.
Remove any such objects, residue or contaminants when

present (see section 3.5.3).
Care and maintenance procedures

Carry out further care and maintenance procedures as
necessary (see section 3.5.4).
Operation v1.4 – 10/2015 3-19

Terminating work operation after daily routine cobas p 671
3.5.2 Logout / shutting down the system

1. Press the [Logout] button located in the upper right-hand corner of the monitor and
confirm the logout in the next window displayed.
2. To shut the system down, press the [Shutdown] button on the login screen.
For a description of the logout and shutdown procedures, please refer to part B
'System Description'.
3.5.3 Inspecting the transfer area

1. Check the transfer area and rack conveyor for objects such as sample tubes (or tube
pieces), caps, spilt fluids or sample material that may have accumulated during operation.
2. Remove any such objects, residue or contaminants when present.
WARNING
Risk of infection: Sample material and all parts of the system that (might)
come into contact with sample material are to be regarded as potentially
infectious and harmful to health. Due to the risk of infection, always wear
gloves when working on the system!
3.5.4 Care and maintenance procedures

Perform care and maintenance procedures as necessary.
CAUTION
Always turn off the system before performing care and maintenance work!
Always remove the system's mains plug from the mains supply!
Also ensure that the power supply cannot be (accidently) turned on again
during maintenance activities.
Be certain that you are familiar with the notes on hazards and precautions
in Part A 'General information' before performing the care and
maintenance actions.
Ensure that national, international and standard laboratory safety
precautions are adhered to when performing the care and maintenance
schedule.
For detailed information about cleaning and maintenance, see part D

'Maintenance'.
3-20 Operation v1.4 – 10/2015

Part D
4. Maintenance
cobas p 671
II Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671
4. Maintenance ............................................................................................... I
4.1. Introduction.................................................................................................. 4-1
4.2. Cleaning system components.................................................................. 4-2
4.3. Cleaning agents and equipment ............................................................. 4-2
4.4. Care and maintenance schedule ............................................................ 4-3
4.4.1 Preventative maintenance.......................................................................................... 4-3
4.5. Centrifuge maintenance............................................................................ 4-4
4.5.1 Pulling a centrifuge out of its cabinet ................................................................... 4-4
4.5.2 Cleaning the rotor chamber ...................................................................................... 4-8
4.5.3 Rubber care ..................................................................................................................... 4-9
4.5.4 Visual check for corrosion or damage ............................................................... 4-10
4.5.5 Visual check for cracks on the rackset carriers ............................................. 4-11
4.5.6 Lubricating the rackset carriers ........................................................................... 4-11
4.5.7 Inserting the rackset carriers ................................................................................. 4-13
4.5.8 Exchanging carrier and resetting revolutions counter................................. 4-14
4.5.9 Returning the centrifuge into the cabinet ........................................................ 4-16
4.5.10 Emergency release of the centrifuge’s lid ........................................................ 4-17
4.6. System cleaning ........................................................................................4-18
4.6.1 Cleaning the housing and component surfaces ............................................ 4-18
4.6.2 Cleaning the tube type identification module ................................................. 4-18
4.6.3 Cleaning the optical sensors ................................................................................. 4-20
4.6.4 Cleaning the user interface .................................................................................... 4-21
4.7. Replacing parts .........................................................................................4-22
4.7.1 Replacing the mains fuse........................................................................................ 4-22
4.7.2 Replacing bulbs (tube type identification) ....................................................... 4-24
4.7.2.1 Replacement part ................................................................................................... 4-24
4.7.2.2 Procedure .................................................................................................................. 4-24
4.7.3 Replacing the rackset carriers .............................................................................. 4-25
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 III

cobas p 671
IV Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

4.1. Introduction
Be certain that you are familiar with the notes on hazards and precautions in chapter 1
'General Information' before performing the care and maintenance schedule.
Ensure that national, international and standard laboratory safety precautions are adhered to
when carrying out maintenance procedures.
The following instructions for cleaning and maintenance of the centrifuges apply to the
centrifuges in the cobas p 671 system and must be performed on both centrifuge modules.
CAUTION
Always turn off the system before performing maintenance work. Always
remove the mains plug of the cobas p 671 system from the mains supply!
Care and maintenance procedures include all activities to be performed periodically by the
user. These serve to ensure trouble-free operation of the system.
Adherence to the maintenance procedures is the basis for trouble-free work flows. Therefore,
the maintenance procedures described below should be performed regularly.
WARNING
Sample material and all parts of the system that (might) come into contact
with the sample material are to be regarded as potentially infectious and
harmful to health. Due to the risk of infection, always wear gloves when
working on the system!
Before disposing of the module at the end of its service life, it must be
thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
WARNING
disconnect the mains cable prior to commencing maintenance work inside
the camera module!
CAUTION
Clean the system immediately whenever a sample tube becomes damaged
during operations and sample material is spilled on or into the system!
NOTICE
Before disposing of the module at the end of its service life, it must be thoroughly
cleaned and disinfected!
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-1

Cleaning system components cobas p 671
4.2. Cleaning system components

The components below can come into contact with sample material and should be cleaned
regularly and wiped with antiseptics:
• Racks
• Rack trays
• Tray mounts
• Transfer area / Rack storage
• Gripper of the sorter unit
• Rotor chambers
• Centrifuge carriers for racksets
4.3. Cleaning agents and equipment

The surfaces of the module are made to ensure that the system can be cleaned with common
antiseptics (for example Biohit Barrycidal 36 or Braun Melsungen Helipur H plus N).
WARNING
Risk of fire and explosion from the usage of flammable cleaning- and
disinfectant liquids.
Explosive atmospheres can exist if the work area is not adequately
ventilated.
Observe safety instructions on the respective containers.
CAUTION
To avoid damage to the device, the pH value of cleaning agents and
disinfectants must be within the range of 5 to 8.
A cotton swab or cloth, slightly moistened with distilled or demineralized water, should be
used to clean the optical components (sensors).
You should use the camera cleaning kit for cleaning the camera lens (Tube Type
Identification Module).
Cleaning agents and equipment include:

• Antiseptics (see above)
• Mild cleaning agent (pH value 5 to 8)
• cobas p 671 cleaning kit (lint-free cloth, cotton buds and compressed air spray)
• Camera cleaning kit
• Rubber or latex gloves
• Lubricant for the centrifuge rotor
4-2 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Care and maintenance schedule
4.4. Care and maintenance schedule
Interval Weekly/ Monthly/ Yearly

Task as required as required
Visual check of the rackset carriers for

X
corrosion or damage
Lubricate the rackset carriers X
Clean the Tube Type Identification module

X
and the barcode reader (optional)
Clean/disinfect the centrifuge X
Lightly rub the rubber seals of the

X
centrifuges with talcum powder
Clean/disinfect the housing and component
X
surfaces
Clean/disinfect the racksets X
Clean/disinfect the rackset carriers X
Clean the sensors of the input and output

X
module and of the rack transport
Clean/disinfect the rack trays X
Clean the gripper X
Clean both touchscreen and keyboard X
Replace the bulbs of the

X
Tube Type Identification Module
Preventative maintenance performed by a
X
service technician
Table 4-1: Care and maintenance intervals
4.4.1 Preventative maintenance

Preventative maintenance should be carried out by service technician every 12 months.
Maintenance of the system is dependent on the amount of time it has been in operation.
This is recorded and displayed by a service counter in the system.
NOTICE
The service counter of the system can be found in menu 'Maintenance' ► 'Service cycles'.

Centrifuge maintenance cobas p 671
4.5. Centrifuge maintenance

CAUTION
Clean the rotor chamber and all containers in it if a sample tube is
damaged during the centrifuge process and sample material is spilled on
or into the centrifuge!
WARNING
Sample material and all unit parts that may come into contact with the
sample material are to be regarded as potentially infectious and harmful to
health. Due to the risk of infection, always wear gloves when working on
the system.
4.5.1 Pulling a centrifuge out of its cabinet

For cleaning and maintenance duties, the centrifuges can be pulled out of its cabinet, so their
lid can be opened. The centrifuges have a separate power supply, enabling them to be turned
on and off independently from the system.
CAUTION
The cobas p 671 must be turned off before performing care and
maintenance work on a centrifuge (main switch turned to position 'O').
The centrifuge must be free of samples.
1. Exit the control software via the [Logout] button in the upper right-hand corner of the
monitor.
Figure 4-1: [Logout] button
2. A confirmation dialog is displayed:
Figure 4-2: Dialog window to confirm logout
3. Touch the [Logout] button in this window to confirm the Logout procedure.

cobas p 671 Centrifuge maintenance
4. The program will be shut down and the Login screen is displayed:
Figure 4-3: Login screen
5. To shut down the system, touch the [Shutdown] button (see marking on Figure 4-3)
6. When requested, turn the system off. Turn the main switch to the 'O' position.
NOTICE
When the system is turned off, the centrifuge displays remain active, as the centrifuges
each have a separate power supply.
7. Open the door to the centrifuge.
Figure 4-4: Opening the door to the centrifuge

8. Manually loosen both knurled screws (counter-clockwise) on the light-colored grip rail.
Figure 4-5: Loosening the knurled screws
9. Holding the grip rail, slowly withdraw the centrifuge from the centrifuge cabinet until it
reaches the limit stop.
Figure 4-6: Withdrawing the centrifuge Figure 4-7: Centrifuge withdrawn
10. Open the lid of the centrifuge. To do so, push the [STOP/OPEN] button on the lower
right of the control panel.
Figure 4-8: Opening the lid of the centrifuge

NOTICE
The centrifuge can only be opened if it is turned on and if the rotor stands still. (If this is
not possible, for example during a power outage, see Chapter 4.5.9).
For safety reasons however, the power supply must be disconnected before performing
any further tasks, such as cleaning the rotor chamber!
11. Now turn off the power supply to the centrifuge by switching the horizontal power switch
to left.
Figure 4-9: Turning off the power supply to the centrifuge
12. Pull out the mains plug on the rear side of the centrifuge.
13. Open the centrifuge lid by use of its handle. The lid will remain open in this position.
Figure 4-10: Opening the centrifuge lid Figure 4-11 : Lid of centrifuge opened,
view into the rotor chamber

4.5.2 Cleaning the rotor chamber

To clean the rotor chamber it is necessary to remove the rackset carriers from their mounts.
The carriers are pivot-mounted on two supporting lugs on the rotary arms.
CAUTION
In case the carriers have to be replaced or if maintenance is performed for
several centrifuges simultaneously, you must be careful not to interchange
the carriers. Even if they might look the same, the carriers must always be
dedicated to a certain centrifuge and rotor position.
1. Carefully withdraw the carriers upwards from their mounts.
Figure 4-12: Removing the carriers from the centrifuge
NOTICE
Both sides of the rackset carriers are embossed with a number (1 to 4), which
correspond with the numbers on the supporting lugs at the centrifuge rotor (1 to 4).

2. The rotor chamber can now be accessed for cleaning. The rotor itself must not be
removed. Using a moist lint-free cloth, clean the base, walls and underside of the lid of the
rotor chamber as well as the rotor itself. Use a mild cleaning agent if the soiling proves to
be difficult to remove.
Figure 4-13: Cleaning the bottom of the rotor Figure 4-14: Cleaning the wall of the rotor
chamber chamber
NOTICE
The white band on the inner wall of the rotor chamber at the height of the rotor is
formed by slinging away excess lubrication material from the supporting lugs. This is
not a malfunction.
Figure 4-15: Cleaning the underside of the Figure 4-16: Cleaning the rotor
centrifuge lid
4.5.3 Rubber care

Lightly dust the rubber seal and rubber sleeve of the centrifuge with talcum powder after
each cleaning.

4.5.4 Visual check for corrosion or damage

When lubricating the rackset carriers during the weekly maintenance of the system, you
must check the base of each rackset carrier (see Figure 4-17), the hinging grooves and the
supporting lugs of the centrifuge rotor.
Any parts showing either discoloration caused by corrosion or flutes due to wearout have to
be replaced by a service technician immediately!
The black anodized variant of the rackset carriers cannot be visually checked for corrosion.
These are exchanged when either their maximum count of cycles or the expiry date is
reached.
WARNING
If you notice corrosion or wear and tear on the centrifuge parts, you must
stop working with the system! The rackset carriers may break during
centrifugation and be slung off. Severe damages can occur! Persons nearby
might be severely injured.
Figure 4-17: Rackset carrier Figure 4-18: Rackset carrier
Figure 4-19: Centrifuge rotor
A Discoloration B Hinging groove

C Supporting lugs
4-10 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

4.5.5 Visual check for cracks on the rackset carriers

WARNING
If you notice crack formations at the centrifuge parts, you must stop
working with the system! A rackset carrier may break during
centrifugation and may be slung off. Severe damages can occur!
Persons nearby might be severely injured.
Tests have shown that cracks can appear in the slots of the rackset carrier (see Figure 4-20).
If you notice crack formation, you have to replace the affected rackset carriers immediately!
Visual checks for crack formation are due to be performed on a weekly basis.
Figure 4-20: Rackset carrier with crack
NOTICE
During the yearly preventative maintenance, the service technician will thoroughly
check all parts.
4.5.6 Lubricating the rackset carriers

The supporting lugs of the centrifuge rotor must be lubricated regularly to ensure that the
rackset carriers can move freely during operation.
NOTICE
The rotor itself must not be removed.
1. Remove all residues of old lubricant from the supporting lugs on the rotor and from the
hinging grooves of the rackset carriers.
2. Clean the rackset carriers with a moist lint-free cloth.
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-11

3. Squeeze a small (pea-sized) amount of lubricant from the tube of lubricant supplied onto
the tip of your finger.
Figure 4-21: Lubricant
4. Spread the lubricant evenly on the hinging grooves (see Figure 4-22 to Figure 4-24).
Figure 4-22: Applying lubricant Figure 4-23: Applying lubricant
Figure 4-24: Applying lubricant
CAUTION
Excess lubricant can obstruct free swaying of the carriers, particularly
within a refrigerated centrifuge. This can potentially lead to the carriers
not being in vertical position when idle and thus cause issues with the
loading / unloading of racksets.
4-12 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

4.5.7 Inserting the rackset carriers

The freshly lubricated rackset carriers can now be refit onto the rotor.
NOTICE
Each carrier has a designated position on the rotor. Thus it is important to observe the
numbers engraved on both the carriers and the rotor during insertion!
The upper side of the rackset carriers is engraved on both sides with a number between 1 and
4. The supporting lugs on the rotor are correspondingly numbered.
Figure 4-25: Numbers on the rackset carriers
Figure 4-26: Rotor position numbers
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-13

When inserting the rackset carriers, they have to be placed in the supporting lugs at the rotor
with the same number. This means that the carrier engraved "2" is to be fit onto the rotor
where it would be bordered on both sides by the figure "2"
Figure 4-27: Rotor position 2

A Rackset carrier #2 B Supporting lugs for carrier, rotor position
number (here: 2)
Maintenance work by the operator is concluded once the rotor chamber has been cleaned
and the supporting lugs lubricated.
NOTICE
The centrifuge should remain turned off and the lid should remain open until any
remaining moisture has fully evaporated.
4.5.8 Exchanging carrier and resetting revolutions counter

The carriers are reliable only up to a specific number of revolutions. When this number is
done, the carriers must be exchanged for save operation of the centrifuge. The system counts
the revolutions and shows this picture below at Login:
Figure 4-28: Maintenance of centrifuge necessary

The number of cycles is shown on the screen in Maintenance ▶ Service Cycles.
4-14 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

Figure 4-29: Centrifuge revolutions counter

For solving this:
1. Carefully withdraw the carriers upwards from their mounts. For more information see
chapter 4.5.2.
2. Insert a new set of carriers. For more information see chapter 4.5.7
Reset the cycle counter.
3. On the screen open Maintenance ▶ Service Cycles.

4. Choose Reset at ‘Carriers for centrifuge rack’.
Figure 4-30: Centrifuge revolutions counter
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-15

NOTICE
The counter in the Rotanta centrifuge is deactivated. The decisive counter is of the
system’s software.
4.5.9 Returning the centrifuge into the cabinet

Once cleaned, the centrifuge is to be pushed back into the centrifuge cabinet of the system.
1. Reconnect the mains plug on the rear side of the centrifuge.

2. Turn on the power supply to the centrifuge by switching the horizontal power switch to
the right.
3. Close the lid of the centrifuge and lightly press down. The locking action is performed by
a motor.
4. Carefully push the centrifuge back into the cabinet until it reaches the limit stop.
CAUTION
Be sure not to clamp any cables when pushing back the centrifuge!
5. Fix the centrifuge to the cabinet by tightening both knurled screws; to do so, turn them
clockwise by hand.
6. Close the door to the centrifuge cabinet.
7. Reconnect the mains supply of the cobas p 671 system.
4-16 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

4.5.10 Emergency release of the centrifuge’s lid

During a power outage, the centrifuge's lid cannot be opened as usual by pressing the
corresponding button on the control panel. In this case, an emergency release has to be
performed.
CAUTION
During an emergency release, the centrifuge must be disconnected from
the mains line!
Open the lid only if the rotor has come to a complete halt!
Only the provided hexagon screw driver may be utilized. Inserting any
other tool might damage components within the centrifuge.
1. Insert the hexagon screw driver (included in delivery of the centrifuge) horizontally into
the bore (see Figure 4-29) until you feel it engaging the head of the corresponding screw
within the centrifuge.
Figure 4-31: Hexagon screw driver Figure 4-32: Borehole for emergency release
2. Turn the screw driver for about 180° until the lid is completely released.
3. Withdraw the screw driver from the borehole and open the centrifuge lid.
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-17

System cleaning cobas p 671
4.6. System cleaning
CAUTION
Always turn off the cobas p 671 system before performing maintenance
work!
4.6.1 Cleaning the housing and component surfaces

Clean the surfaces of the housing with a cloth and disinfectant when soiled, for example,
by spilt fluids.
4.6.2 Cleaning the tube type identification module

The tube type identification module is housed at the rear and to the left of the sorting area.
It can be accessed from the rear.
WARNING
Mains voltage: Shut down the system, switch it off at the mains switch and
unplug the power cable before working inside the housing.
WARNING
disconnect the mains cable prior to commencing maintenance work inside
the tube type identification module!
CAUTION
The lens of the camera must not be moved when it is being cleaned!
4-18 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 System cleaning
1. Open the housing of the module by loosening the fastening screws and removing the
housing cover.
A
Figure 4-33: Opening the housing of the tube type identification module
A Fastening screws B Warning label laser light (optional)
2. To clean the camera lens, use the cleaning cloth and liquid from the kit for camera
cleaning included in the delivery.
A
B
Figure 4-34: Camera for tube type identification

A Barcode reader aperture B Camera lens
3. Use the cleaning cloth with a few drops of the supplied cleaning fluid.
NOTICE
Store the cleaning cloths for the camera separately to avoid soiling.
4. Clean the camera lens from the rear.

5. Clean the white camera background with particular thoroughness using a lint-free cloth
soaked in demineralized water.
6. Cleaning the barcode reader (optional): Clean the barcode scanner window first with a
damp cloth and then wipe it dry.
7. Clean the housing of the tube type identification module on the inside with a damp cloth.
8. Insert the housing cover from above, downwards, and fasten it with the screws.
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-19

System cleaning cobas p 671
4.6.3 Cleaning the optical sensors

The cobas p 671 is equipped with various sensors that sense and transmit information about
the availability and (correct) position of sample tubes and racks to the system.
To ensure trouble-free operation of the cobas p 671, it is necessary that the sensors function
faultlessly. Soiling or dust can impair the function of the sensors. Therefore, it may be
necessary to clean these.
CAUTION
Turn off the cobas p 671 before carrying out any cleaning work on the
system!
1. Exit the control software via the [Logout] button in the upper right-hand corner of the
monitor. A pop-up window will be displayed (see Figure 4-2).
2. Touch the [Logout] button in this pop-up window to confirm the logout procedure.
The program will be shut down and the login screen is displayed (see Figure 4-3).
3. To shut down the system, touch the [Shutdown] button in the lower left-hand corner of
the monitor.
4. When requested to turn off the system, turn the main switch to the position 'O'.
5. Open the protective door in front of the transfer area to access the sensors.
6. To clean the sensors, use a dry cotton bud taken from the cleaning set supplied with the
cobas p 671 system. Moisten slightly if soiling proves difficult to remove.
Figure 4-35: Sensor cleaning Figure 4-36: Sensor cleaning

(at the input module) (below tube type identification)
Figure 4-37: Cleaning the sensors along the rack transport
4-20 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 System cleaning

(rack transport before the output module) (at the rack output)

(at the output tray) (under the output tray)
4.6.4 Cleaning the user interface

When soiled, clean the touch screen monitor and keyboard with a damp cloth only.
CAUTION
Do not use an alcohol-based cleaning agents or abrasive materials!
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-21

Replacing parts cobas p 671
4.7. Replacing parts

4.7.1 Replacing the mains fuse
The mains fuse is located inside the interface panel at the rear of the system above the mains
connection.
WARNING
Mains voltage!
Do not replace the fuse until you have unplugged the power cable!
7. Make sure that the mains switch is in position 'O'.

8. Remove the mains supply cable from the system.
Figure 4-43: Removing the mains supply cable
4-22 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Replacing parts
9. Using a thin-blade screwdriver, push up the tab (on the lower part of the fuse holder) and
pull out the fuse holder.
Figure 4-44: Push up the tab … Figure 4-45: … and remove the fuse
holder
10. Replace the fuse. Use only fuses with these specifications:
- T 6.3 AH; 250 V for 230 Volt version (size: 5*20 mm), order no. 00000022027
- T 10 AH; 250 V for 115 Volt version (size: 5*20 mm), order no. 16999012116
11. Push the fuse holder into the housing until you hear an audible click.
Figure 4-46: Inserting the fuse holder
12. Plug the connector of the mains supply cable into the mains supply connection on the
system.
That concludes the procedure for replacing the fuse.
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-23

4.7.2 Replacing bulbs (tube type identification)

The lighting (consisting of three bulbs) in the tube type identification module must be
replaced once a year.
WARNING
Mains voltage: Shut down the system, switch it off at the mains switch
and unplug the power cable before working inside the housing. You
must not replace bulbs while the system is still powered on!
CAUTION
The bulbs get very hot during operation and may take up to 15 minutes
to cool down before you can touch them!
Also be aware not to hit the housing while pulling out the bulbs, as the
bulbs may easily break. This poses an injury risk!
4.7.2.1 Replacement part

Item Order No.
Bulb 13 W 4 contacts 23101000070
4.7.2.2 Procedure
Proceed as follows to take apart the bulbs:
1. Ensure that the system is switched off at the mains switch.

2. Loosen the fastening screws at the front and rear module housing.
3. Take off the housing covers.
4. Pull the bulbs carefully out of their sockets.
5. Insert the new bulbs and check them for tight fit.
6. Close the module housing.
7. Tighten the fastening screws.
NOTICE
Follow the local regulations when disposing of defective bulbs.
4-24 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Replacing parts
4.7.3 Replacing the rackset carriers

If one of the four rackset carriers is defective (corrosion, crack formation or drop damage) or
reaches either of its engraved EOL conditions, you always have to replace the complete set.
As the rackset carriers are individually manufactured for optimum centrifuge balance, the
replacing of individual carriers from a designated set is not allowed.
WARNING
Crack formation: It is strictly prohibited to use carriers with crack
formation (for example caused by material fatigue or poor lubrication),
with no regard to dimension or severity of the damage!
Due to the immensely high forces inside the centrifuge, the burst of a
defective carrier during operation can lead to total loss of the system and
to personal injury!
• For replacement of carrier sets, use only the allowed carrier type for the cobas p 671
system.
• Before using a new carrier set, lubricate the carriers as described in Chapter 4.5.6.
• Ensure that defective carriers cannot be (accidentally) used again.
(see also chapter 1.7.2 for additional information)
Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015 4-25

4-26 Maintenance v1.4 – 10/2015

Part E
5. Troubleshooting
cobas p 671
II Troubleshooting 1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671
5. Troubleshooting .......................................................................................... I
5.1. Important questions for customer service ............................................ 5-1
5.1.1 General information ..................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.2 Air pressure too low ..................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.3 Problems with the motor control ............................................................................. 5-1
5.1.4 Problems with the tube transport at the input and output sections ......... 5-1
5.2. What do I do if ...? ....................................................................................... 5-2
5.2.1 ... the system is not working? ................................................................................... 5-2
5.2.2 ... the control unit (computer) is not working? .................................................. 5-2
5.2.3 ... the touch-screen monitor is not working?...................................................... 5-2
5.2.4 ... the communication in the network is not working?.................................... 5-2
5.2.5 ... the control unit (computer) fails during operation? .................................... 5-2
5.2.6 ... a power failure has occurred? ............................................................................. 5-2
5.2.7 ... no button is active on the touch-screen monitor?....................................... 5-2
5.2.8 ... daily data backup is causing problems?.......................................................... 5-3
5.2.9 ... a centrifuge's lid cannot be opened? ................................................................ 5-3
5.2.10 ... the output tray contains loaded racks?............................................................ 5-3
5.2.11 ... error #063 occurs during loading of the centrifuge? ................................. 5-4
5.2.12 ... a rack is jammed at the output module (error #658)? ............................... 5-4
5.3. Opening the sorting gripper manually ................................................... 5-6
5.4. Messages ..................................................................................................... 5-7
5.4.1 Error messages and remedies .................................................................................. 5-7
5.4.2 Informative messages ............................................................................................... 5-36
Troubleshooting 1.4 – 10/2015 III

cobas p 671
IV Troubleshooting 1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Important questions for customer service
5.1. Important questions for customer service

5.1.1 General information
It is important that customer service receives a detailed description of the error. For that
reason, ensure that the following information is available before calling customer service:
• Was the error caused when an entry was being made in the computer or was something
being done on the unit?
• Does the error occur sporadically or always in the same situation?
• Does the error occur only with a certain type of tube?
• In which position is the main switch: ON or OFF?
• Are the LED's on the monitor or printer lit up?
• Is the mains plug connected?
• Is the mains fuse OK?
CAUTION
Do not check the fuse until you have unplugged the power cable!
• Is anything displayed on the touch screen monitor (message, cursor)?

• Have you followed the troubleshooting instructions displayed with the error messages?
• What is the error message?
5.1.2 Air pressure too low

• Is the compressor or compressed-air supply turned on?
• Is compressed air available (see manometer on the compressor and in the system)?
• Is the compressed air hose connected correctly (see part B 'System Description')?
5.1.3 Problems with the motor control

• Can the axes of the sorter unit be moved freely when the system is turned off?
5.1.4 Problems with the tube transport at the input and output sections
• Are the rack trays OK?
• Can the racks be easily fed in or out?
• Have the sensors been cleaned (see part D 'Maintenance')?
Troubleshooting 1.4 – 10/2015 5-1

What do I do if ...? cobas p 671
5.2. What do I do if ...?

5.2.1 ... the system is not working?
• Check if the main switch is in the correct ON/OFF position.
• Check if the protective door is correctly closed.
• Check if the supply voltage is correct and the power supply cable is properly connected.
If the system still does not function, replace the mains fuse (see part D 'Maintenance').
5.2.2 ... the control unit (computer) is not working?

• Check if a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM is in the DVD-ROM drive
• Check if the supply voltage is correct and the power supply cable is properly connected.
5.2.3 ... the touch-screen monitor is not working?

• Check if the monitor is turned on.
• Check if the cable connecting the system and the monitor is correctly connected.
5.2.4 ... the communication in the network is not working?

• Make sure that the network cables are connected correctly.
• Log out, shutdown, turn off and restart the system.
If the communication problem cannot be rectified, contact the network administrator to
have the online driver checked.
5.2.5 ... the control unit (computer) fails during operation?

There are a number of reasons why the internal computer reboots without apparent reason:
• The processor fan is overloaded or defective.
• The fan of the power supply unit is overloaded or defective.
• The auxiliary fan in the housing is overloaded or defective.
• Fluctuations occur in the supply voltage.
• A power failure has occurred.
• The processor or individual boards are defective.
Turn off the system and wait a few minutes to allow the system to cool down. Turn on the
system again and begin normal procedures. Notify a service technician if the error occurs
again.
5.2.6 ... a power failure has occurred?

The PC will restart after a power failure. The previous work cycle was interrupted. A new
work cycle must be started (see part C 'Operation’).
5.2.7 ... no button is active on the touch-screen monitor?

Check if the protective cover is correctly closed.
5-2 Troubleshooting 1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 What do I do if ...?
5.2.8 ... daily data backup is causing problems?

USB memory stick
In isolated cases, a connected USB memory stick is not detected.
Press the hotkey [ALT]+[F4]. This will kill the blocked task. Then click on the submenu item
'Daily Saving of Data' again in order to reinitiate the program and try again.
If the data backup procedure still does not function properly, proceed as follows:
• Remove the USB memory stick.
• Touch the [Logout] button and then shut down the system.
• Turn the system off and then on again at the main switch.
• Run the data backup procedure again.
If the data backup procedure still fails, notify a service technician.
5.2.9 ... a centrifuge's lid cannot be opened?

The emergency lid lock release is located to the right of the control panel (see Figure 5-2).
It can be activated by inserting and turning a hexagon screw driver.
Figure 5-1: Hexagon screw driver Figure 5-2: Emergency lid lock release
CAUTION
During an emergency release, the centrifuge must be disconnected from the
mains line!
Only the provided hexagon screw driver may be utilized. Inserting any other tool
might damage components within the centrifuge.
The exact procedure for the lid's emergency release is described in part D
'Maintenance', chapter 'Emergency release of the centrifuge’s lid'
5.2.10 ... the output tray contains loaded racks?

If there are still tubes within some racks on the output tray of the connected system, these
have been detected as incorrect.
1. Feed the racks again into the system.
2. If the tubes of these racks cannot be processed repeatedly, try to narrow the error causes
and fix them, if possible. Open the 'Maintenance' ► 'Error History' submenu item.

What do I do if ...? cobas p 671
3. Contact the lab administrator or service technician if the error cannot be solved (the tube
type might not be registered in the system).
5.2.11 ... error #063 occurs during loading of the centrifuge?
Figure 5-3: Centrifuge loading blocked

1. Press the [Standby] button and open the protective cover.
2. Align the racks manually in the gripper, so that they can be placed in the carrier.
3. Close the protective cover and press the [Run] button.
4. Press the [Repeat] button.
5. Contact the service technician if that didn't solve the problem or if the error occurs
repeatedly.
5.2.12 ... a rack is jammed at the output module (error #658)?
Figure 5-4: Rack output module blocked

A Twisted rack
1. Press the [Standby] button on the connected system and open the protective cover.
2. Move the blocked rack manually from the rack output module onto the output tray.

cobas p 671 What do I do if ...?
3. Close the protective cover of the connected system and press the [Run] button.
4. Press the [Repeat] button on the touch screen of the cobas p 671.
5. Contact the service technician if that does not solve the problem or if the error occurs
repeatedly.

Opening the sorting gripper manually cobas p 671
5.3. Opening the sorting gripper manually

The function for manually opening the gripper is only active in Standby mode.
CAUTION
Always wear protective clothing and gloves when performing service tasks on
the system!
If, for any reason, a rackset inside the gripper needs to be removed, it is possible to open the
gripper manually (skip steps #1 and #2, if the system halts automatically):
1. In the submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen', press the [Standby] button.

2. Wait until the current work step is finished and the sorting unit comes to a halt at its
waiting position. The current system status is displayed in the status field.
Figure 5-5: [Open Gripper] button

3. In the submenu 'Routine' ► 'Main Screen', touch the [Open Gripper] button.
A pop up window is displayed to confirm the command.
4. Open the protective door and hold the rackset with one hand.
5. Press the [OK] button with the other hand. The gripper fingers open up.
6. Contingent on being in Standby mode however, the system cannot update a rackset's
sorting status at this time. Hence removing a rackset from the gripper will result in the
system actually "missing" it later during routine again. In order to prevent this from
happening, you must proceed as follows (read ahead before proceeding!):
a. Watch the gripper closely when you resume operation again. Even though now empty,
it will move to the removed item's unswerving target and imitate the procedure of
putting it down.
b. Once this happens, take note of the gripper's current location.
c. When the gripper is lifted from this position again, press [Standby].
d. Put the removed rackset into the position which the gripper just left. This intervention
ensures that the rackset will later be exactly where the system's control computer
expects it to be.
7. Close the protective door and resume operation (again) by pressing the [Run] button.

cobas p 671 Messages
5.4. Messages
The displayed messages during operation are made up of both informational messages as
well as error messages to which the user must react.
Messages are displayed immediately on the touch screen monitor; it is possible to react to
these directly by inputting corresponding entries. Errors which can be regulated by the
system are corrected automatically (for example, positioning errors of the stepper motors).
All error messages and warnings are logged and can be used to interpret errors at a later time
(see part B 'System Description').
Most messages are indexed with a number through which it is possible to draw conclusions
as to the cause and possible remedy without reference to the text.
The message texts contain different variables which are replaced by specific texts when
displayed.
Variables in the error bar
~ Internal error number

% e.g. abbreviations, file name
Variables in the description
%1, %2, %3, ... More detailed designation of the hardware in question, for example PIO
pin, general parameter abbreviation, time.
When, during normal operations, a message appears that is not listed in the following tables,
contact your lab administrator or service technician.
5.4.1 Error messages and remedies

A selection of errors from the system database with individual descriptions and remedies are
listed below.
Certain messages and errors cannot be fixed by the operator. The intervention of the lab
administrator or service technician is thus necessary, since only they have the necessary
system software access rights, and only they should deal with mechanical or electrical
problems.
Error message Description Remedy
000 ERROR CODE A non-categorized error has Restart system or program. Contact the
NOT DEFINED !!! occurred. system administrator or service
technician if the error persists.
002 SYSTEM A system error has occurred. Restart system or program. Contact the
ERROR ~ in '%' system administrator or service
technician if the error persists.
008 Bad control file The parameter format for a line or This error only occurs if the file has been
! the menu bar for a program was changed. Activate file backup and
set up improperly in the file perform the change once again very
'menu/menu.Ec3'. carefully.

Messages cobas p 671
009 Error ~ on You wanted to gain access to a file Check if the file exists.
opening file '%' ! which cannot be opened. If not, copy the file from the backup disk
Possibly the file does not exist. to the hard disk.
011 ISAM: Error ~ The database identified an This is an error in general parameters.
Record '%' unspecified error. Copy the latest backup of general
Usually, this refers to a severe parameters records into the system and
error. repeat changing the general parameters
you have previously made.
018 ISAM: File '%' This file is to be used for reading This is a system error. If restarting the
not open but it is not open. program does not cure this problem,
(NOTOPEN) check on the operating system level for
possible causes.
019 ISAM: File '%' This message may be issued after The error only occurs in connection
inconsistent a system failure. with the general parameters.
(INCONS) !!! Copy the general parameters from your
STOP, DO NOT most recent data backup to the system.
CONTINUE Contact a system technician.
WORKING !!!
021 Error ~ on Before working can take place all Execute 'Log off' and 'Log in'.
starting task '%' necessary tasks must be loaded. If the error is still displayed, contact a
For each task which cannot be service technician.
loaded a message is displayed. Close background programs by shutting
down the system.
Reload background programs by
restarting the system.
027 Error ~ on Problems occur when closing Terminate processes again. If the error
stopping the task background programs. persists, turn system off and on. If the
'%' error cannot be rectified, contact a
service technician.
036 No interface The definition of the interface Check the interface configuration. If the
board defined or board does not exist. problem cannot be found, contact a
not active. service technician.
037 Too many Too many interface boards have Revise the interface parameters.
interface boards been activated in the general
activated parameters. This led to overlaps.
038 No interface A general parameter error Revise the general parameters.

defined or not occurred when the interfaces have
active been defined.

039 Too many The number of interfaces defined Revise the general parameters.
interfaces active surpasses the number of interface
boards present.
046 Backup file '%' The configuration file cannot be Delete the backup file at the level of the
cannot be deleted saved to an intermediate backup operating system and then re-generate
because the old backup file cannot the configuration file.
be deleted.
047 Files cannot be The renaming of the new and old Delete the backup file at the level of the
renamed configuration files has failed. operating system and then re-generate
the configuration file.
048 File '%' cannot The configuration file cannot be At the level of the operating system¸ find
be created created. out why the file cannot be saved.
049 Unexpected An unknown error has occurred. Restart the program. Contact a service
termination, restart technician if the error persists.
program
056 Input tray is No tray has been inserted into the Insert a rack tray into input station
not inserted '%' input station. again.
I/O-Canal of sensor: <%1> Check if sensor is active.
Check if sensor is adjusted correctly.
Check the logic of the sensor.
Check the I/O-Board.
058 Deleting data You cannot delete this data

has not been record!
enabled!
061 1 Error (1) An error occurred during the If the error occurs often and regularly,
reference switch check of the reference position. you should have a service technician
monitoring Reference runs are performed check the motor, axis or limit switch.
regularly during normal
operation. Since stepping errors
are corrected automatically, this is
normally not a serious error.
When this error occurs, the
current position is immediately
terminated and all further
commands are deleted (%1).

062 2 Error encoder (2) Encoder error (hardware) in Turn the system off and on. Contact a
monitoring the motor control group. service technician if the error persists
The encoder signals are logically (De-energize motor and check rotary
incorrect. There is a hardware encoder).
error (at DMS). When this error
occurs, the current position is
immediately terminated, all
further commands are deleted.
The red Fail-LED on the motor
control board is blinking. This
error is corrected only after a
hardware reset (%1).
063 3 Error in (3) Error monitoring for Reasons:

active revolution positioning commands. Error in the drive system: Blocking of
monitoring The tolerance was exceeded motor axis.
during or after the motor Contact a service technician if the error
movement. persists.
When this error occurs, the (poor belt tension, poor regulation
current position is immediately parameters, motor problems, loose tooth
terminated and all further wheel ...)
commands are deleted (%1).
064 4 Error (4) Error standstill monitoring for Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
standstill positioning commands. If the error continues, notify the service
monitoring Axis deflection at standstill in technician.
excess of the tolerance. The buffer
does not change when this error
occurs.
Reasons: bad regulation
parameters, axis was deflected
manually (%1).
067 A Transfer (A) Transfer error (parity). Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
error Communication error from the Contact a service technician if the error
computer to the DMS/SMS persists.
control boards. (Check the cabling to the motor control
Red fail LED is blinking (%1). board.)
068 B Check sum (B) Checksum error in control Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
error in control telegram. Contact a service technician if the error
telegram Communication error from the persists (Check the RS485 interface,
computer to the DMS/SMS hardware).
control boards.
Red fail LED is blinking (%1).

069 C Command (C) Command format error in the Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
format error - control telegram. Contact a service technician if the error
control telegram The entire buffer is deleted (%1). persists (Check the interface protocol).
070 D Check sum (D) Check sum error in the Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
error in the instruction telegram. Contact a service technician if the error
instruction Communication error from the persists (Check the RS485 interface,
telegram computer to the DMS/SMS hardware.)
control boards.
Red fail LED is blinking (%1).
071 E Error (E) Command format error in the Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
command format – instruction telegram. Contact a service technician if the error
instruction The buffer is not changed (%1). persists. (Check the interface protocol.)
telegram
072 F No execution (F) There is no execution Try to evade the error by pressing
command in the command for the DMS boards in [Repeat].
buffer % the buffer. Re-boot the system if the error persists.
Synchronizing error from RS485 Contact a service technician if the occurs
interface between the computer again.
and the DMS control boards.
The buffer is not changed (%1).
073 G Defective (Defective fuse in the motor Replace the defective fuse in the motor
fuse control group. Status queries will control group.
not reset the error (%1). If error persists, check for short circuits
(motor, cables).
074 H Motor (H) Undervoltage or overvoltage If the error persists, check the voltages
undervoltage from the output-stage power (24V, 35V).
supply.
Status queries will not reset the
error (%1).
075 I Excessive (I) Excessive output stage Turn off the system and let it cool down.
output stage temperature. Contact a service technician if the error
temperature The buffer is not changed. persists.
Status queries will not reset the (Check the motor temperature and heat
error (%1). sink temperature (DMS/SMS). If the
error recurs, check the motor control
board and the motor.)

076 J Error in The current monitoring will be Press the [Repeat] button.
current monitoring triggered whenever the axis runs Contact a service technician if the error
– output stage against the end stop for a long persists.
period of time. (Check board and motor. The output
The buffer is deleted and the stage driver is possibly defective.)
current positioning terminated
(%1).
077 K Error at Error at DMS motor control Press the [Repeat] button.
controller selection board (address=%1): Contact a service technician if the error
% (K) Error at selection of persists.
predefined regulation parameters (Check the regulation parameters.
(from the EPROM) is possible at Replace DMS control board.)
G-commands (controller selection
from EPROM) only.
078 L Initialization (L) Initialization error. If the error occurs again:

error The system did not reach the limit Select a slower init speed.
switch or exceeded the Check belt tension and limit switch.
monitoring times during
initialization. The entire buffer is
deleted when this error occurs
(%1).
079 M Limit switch (M) Error and limit switch Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
error (moved into The limit switch has been Contact a service technician if the error
limit switch) triggered or has not been persists. (Check motor system and limit
deactivated. sensor).
Any active positioning is
terminated and the entire buffer
deleted whenever this error
occurs. (%1).
081 O Data buffer (O) Data buffer overflow Re-boot the system.
overflow !!! You may not be able to Contact a service technician if the error
continue working without errors persists.
!!!
The entire buffer is deleted when
this error occurs. (%1).
082 P Defined (P) The defined maximum Use the log file to determine which
maximum position position was exceeded (%1). position the system should be moved
exceeded The programmed position into. Is this position correct?
exceeds the maximum position If so, then adjust the maximum position
defined in the motor parameters. for the motor/ parameter set.

083 Q Error PID Error at DMS motor control Press the [Repeat] button.
filter board (address=%1): Contact a service technician if the error
(Q) PID filter error in the internal persists.
controller. Bad value in the (Check the rules parameters. Replace
regulation parameters. (%1). DMS control board.)
084 R Error: (R) Error: Initialization error Contact a service technician.

Initialization error (motor controller). (Check the 5V voltage and the 5V fuse;
After any reset (hardware or check 'Initstring' in Log file.)
software) the system must be re-
initialized because no positioning
is possible. Error (R) indicates
that the board has been reset
possibly because of 5V voltage
interruption or a problem with
'Initstring' (%1).
090 Errors repeatedly occurred when Shut down and restart the system.
Communication communicating via RS485 Notify a service technician if the error
error on RS485 interface. occurs frequently.
interface This prevents continuing regular
operation.
The reason is this: If during
reading of data 4 errors occur in
succession, the RS485 process is
terminated and the error 090
is displayed.
092 Bad entry Operator has made a bad entry or Check if the program supports all the
does not have access to the option menu items or input forms that have
that is not supported by the been cleared for the menu file or the
program. screen file, respectively. Pay attention to
the entry in the log file on
troubleshooting.
094 Timeout at the A process does not receive the Check the line, plug connectors, serial
interface data expected at an interface. You interface board of the system computer
can specify the interface name in and of the remote terminal.
the log file entry. Use the
'pvt_mount' command to specify
the physical port number.

095 Error when An error occurred during the You can specify the interface name in
using the serial opening/ reading/ writing/ closing the log file entry.
interface process. Use the 'pvt_mount' command to
This error message is not a specify the physical port number.
protocol error. Check the line, plug connectors, serial
interface board
in the system computer and the remote
terminal.
096 Error in access An error occurred when opening, Re-boot the system.
to a sorting list writing, reading or closing a Contact a service technician if the error
sorting list. persists.
The lists filed in the 'result/*' (Narrow down the reason for the error
directory can be viewed by by means of the appropriate
means of 'Sorting lists'. entry into the log file.)
Reasons for the error: hard disk is
full, file system inconsistent
097 General In a system of this size there are Follow the sequence listed below if you
internal software hundreds of potential software encounter this error:
error errors that are not worth setting 1.) Search for an entry in the log file.
up a separate category for. These 2a.) Resolve the problem or
errors are covered by this catch-all 2b.) contact a service technician.
category. If this error occurs, you
will find more information in the
log file entry.
100 General The system tried to access a non- Use the log file to determine the record
parameters record existent general parameters type and abbreviation of the missing
not found record. general parameters record.
Have you made changes to the You will have to undo any changes made
general parameters? to the system.
Have you activated new Contact a service technician.
programs?
101 Start position The actuator <%1> can no longer Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
not attained '%' attain the start position. If the error continues, notify the service
Sensor's I/O channel: <%2> technician.
(Check to see if the sensor is active.
Check the I/O board).

102 Start position The actuator <%1> has not left Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
not left '%' the start position. Contact a service technician if the error
Sensor's I/O channel: <%2> persists.
103 Start position The actuator <%1> has left the Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
not active '%' start position. Contact a service technician if the error
104 Work position The actuator <%1> has left the Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
not active '%' work position. Contact a service technician if the error
(Check whether the sensors are active.
Check whether the sensors have been
properly calibrated.
Check the sensor logic.
Check the I/O board.)
105 Work and start Both sensors at actuator <%1> are Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
position active '%' active. Contact a service technician if the error
I/O channel of the start position persists.
sensor: <%2> (Check whether the sensors are active.
I/O channel of the work position Check whether the sensors have been
sensor: <%3> properly calibrated.
Check the sensor logic.
Check the I/O board.)
106 Actuator is still The actuator <%1> is still active. Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
active '%' I/O channel of the actuator: <%2> Contact a service technician if the error
persists.
(Check whether you can still switch the
output on the I/O board.)

108 Sensor value The sensor provides an incorrect See if the sensor is soiled.
not correct '%' value. Check whether the sensor signal is
The switching state does not interrupted.
match the expected initial state. Contact a service technician if the error
Sensor name: <%1> persists.
Sensor's I/O channel (PIO port): Check if sensor is active / damaged /
<%2> properly calibrated.
Status when sensor activated: Check the logic of the sensor.
<%3> Check the I/O board or NetPC.)
109 Work position The actuator <%1> has attained If this error message appears during the
is active '%' the work position. sorting process, you can press [Ignore]
Sensor's I/O channel: <%2> to continue sorting.
Contact a service technician if the error
persists.
Check whether the sensor has been
properly calibrated.)
110 Start position is The actuator <%1> is still in start Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
still active '%' position. Contact a service technician if the error
(Check whether the sensor is active.
Check whether the sensor has been
properly calibrated. Check the sensor
logic. Check the I/O board.)
111 Work position The actuator <%1> has not Check whether the actuator cannot
not active '%' attained work position. reach the work position due to an
Sensor's I/O channel: <%2> obstruction.
Time for the actuator to reach the Check whether the actuator's
work position: <%3> ms movements are too slow.
If the error continues, notify the service
technician.
(Check whether the sensor is active/
properly calibrated. Check the sensor
logic. Check the I/O board.)

112 Start position The actuator <%1> has not come Check whether the actuator cannot
not active '%' into the start position. reach the start position due to an
Sensor's I/O channel: <%2> obstruction.
Time for the actuator to reach the Check whether the actuator's
start position: <%3> ms movements are too slow.
persists.
(Check if sensor is active or adjusted
correctly.
Check the logic of the sensor. Check the
I/O board.)
113 Rack on The sensor detects a rack at the Check if sensor is active.
conveyor at input input position. Check if sensor is adjusted correctly.
pos. '%' I/O channel of sensor: <%1> Check the logic of the sensor.
Check I/O board.
Remove rack from the input position.
115 Rack on The sensor detects a rack at the Check if sensor is active.
conveyor at output output position. Check if sensor is adjusted correctly.
pos. '%' I/O channel of sensor: <%1> Check the logic of the sensor.
Check I/O board.
Remove rack from the output position.
116 Internal Possible causes: Shut down system, switch off/on system.
software error, file - file system inconsistent Restart work cycle.
'%' could not be - too many files open If the error occurs again, contact a
opened - system error service technician.
Refer to log file!
120 An error An error occurred in a In general, it is recommended to restart

occurred in reading/writing file access. the system when this error occurs.
reading/writing file Possible causes: During the startup sequence, the file
access - insufficient hard disk space, system is verified for inconsistencies and
'df -h' indicates available hard disk available hard disk space and all buffers
space are regenerated.
- file system inconsistent If the error persists, contact a service
- limits of operating system technician.
reached

121 Process has Possible events: Refer to the corresponding entry in the
received an - timer event from operating log file.
incorrect/unknown system
event - send/receive/reply from another
process
- PVT task synchronization
- event from another process via
the queue
- signals from operating system or
another process
122 Task <%> not A task required for inter-task Restart the system.
started communication was not started or If the error occurs again, contact a
terminated itself due to a fatal service technician.
error. Operations cannot be (Refer to log file)
continued.
123 '%' The actuator At actuator <%1> the output of Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
could not be the I/O board (Pin) <%2> could Contact a service technician if the error
switched. not be switched over. persists.
(Check the I/O board. Check the
actuator).
133 The work The actuator <%1> has attained Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
position has been the work position. If the error continues, notify the service
attained '%' Sensor's I/O channel: <%2> technician.
This error may occur when the (Check to see if the sensor is active.
system is grabbing a tube. Check if sensor is adjusted correctly.
If the gripper reaches the work Check the logic of the sensor.
position in this manner, this Check the I/O board.)
means it has not grabbed a tube.
140 Sample carrier The sensor <%1> unexpectedly Manually put the sample carrier which
missing in gripper sensored empty gripper. has gone missing into its designated
'%' position. Then continue operation with
[Ignore].
In case the sample carrier is still in the
gripper:
Check whether the sensor is active and
calibrated properly.
Check the sensor's switching logic.
Check the corresponding I/O board.

142 Put down The selected put down position is Compare the schematic depiction of the
position occupied already occupied. storage area/ sorting area with the real
Possible causes: situation. Clear out put down position
Put down position incorrectly and continue by pressing [Repeat]. Drop
adjusted. the contents of the gripper into the drop
Foreign object on put down position or container by use of the
position. [Set aside] button.
If the error persists for the same
position, its coordinates should be
adjusted.
164 Database/ rules The system is not receiving data See if the system is connected to the
manager does not from the database or the rules host.
respond! manager. The database module or Is the host still running?
rule manager is inactive. If the error continues, notify the service
technician.
170 Gripper During the sorter unit's Check if the drop position is empty.
occupied by initialization, the gripper has been Then press [Set aside] to drop the object
unknown object detected to be occupied. The held held by the gripper. Once the
object must be set aside into drop initialization cycle is completed, remove
position before the system is able the object from the sorting area.
to proceed.
176 DC motor has The DC motor of the input Check to see if the lever is jammed.
not reached defined station has not reached stop Check to see if all the cables are properly
stop position position. fastened.
182 System The system pressure has exceeded Check whether the compressor is
pressure exceeds the specified limit and may cause running.
permitted limits errors during your work. Check the compressed-air tube.
persists.
196 Internal A wrong pointer was set in the The log file can be used to localize the
software error, table program code of the process. error.
pointer is out of The pointer points to an address
control the program can not work with.
218 System stopped Since the sorting area is no longer 1. Turn off the system.
fully available, the system is 2. Turn on the system.
stopped. 3. Continue with your regular routine.
227 Input lever not The input lever is not in its Reposition the lever upwards.
up normal position, therefore the
motor of the rack input cannot be
initialized.

239 Interface for Interface for barcode scanner Try to rectify the error by rebooting the
barcode scanner <%1> system.
cannot be initialized. If the error occurs repeatedly, refer to
'Maintenance' -> 'Error History' for
details.
If the error cannot be rectified, contact
the service technician.
240 Barcode Connection to the barcode Check the connection.

scanner not scanner has been interrupted or If the error cannot be rectified, contact
configured the barcode scanner is defective. the service technician.
244 Profile not A profile is entered in a work You should check the following under
found place in 'Reference Data' which 'Distribution data' main menu item:
has not been created in the - Abbreviations of the profiles for the
'Profiles' menu item. work places.
- Have all profiles been created and
properly written?
245 Work place not A work place not available under You should check the following under
found 'Work places' menu item has been the 'general parameters' main menu
entered in the Reference Data in item:
the current work cycle. - Abbreviation of the work places in the
current work cycle.
- Have all work places been created and
properly written?
248 Target for A work place not known in the You should check the following under
exceptions not current work cycle has been 'Reference Data' main menu item:
defined in the work entered in the 'Allocation - abbreviation of the work places in the
cycle exception -> Target' menu item. 'Allocation Exception -> Target' menu
item
- abbreviation of the work places in the
current work cycle
249 Work cycle not The current or selected work cycle Edit work cycle in the 'Reference Data ->
edited in 'Reference is not edited under 'Work Cycles Work Cycles' menu.
Data in the 'Reference Data'.
250 'Allocation An abbreviation of 'Allocation The following will have to be verified in

Exception -> Exception -> Target' table is the 'Reference Data' main menu:
Target' table not entered for the current work - The entry at 'Allocation Exception ->
available cycle. This table is not available. Target'.
- In the 'Allocation Exception --> Target'
menu, the entered abbreviation in 'Work
Cycles' must exist.

251 Rules manager The process that prepares the data Restart the system.
does not respond for the system has stopped Notify a service technician if the error
responding. occurs again.
255 No connection The host does not respond to a Check the cable connection. Restart the
to the host query. system.
Notify a service technician if the error
occurs again.
(Check software driver on the host.)
258 Position One of the two sorting axes (X of Check the log file!
command for axes Y) has been instructed to move to Make sure that all targets have been
negative a position that is less than zero. created properly.
262 Scanner error The barcode scanner (%1) could Shut down the system and restart.
not get initialized. Contact a service technician if the error
persists.
(By modification of the general
parameters, a false scanner type could
have been set. In this case undo the done
changes.)
264 Error when An error occurred when setting Check the general parameters for
setting up sorting up the data needed for sorting. consistency.
data Check the log file for error messages.
268 Module does Module does not respond. Check if the module program is still
not respond The system is trying to running. Consult the log file for more
communicate with the selected information.
program. However, the module
has not responded within an
allotted response time.
272 No dynamic The system cannot request more Close other applications and re-boot the
memory memory because there are no computer.
available resources left. If the error recurs, add more RAM to the
system.
281 Required field: The field has been declared as a The user has to enter data in this field.
You must enter required field in the form file.
data
282 Field value too The value entered does not match Enter the correct value.
low. Allowed range the range defined in the form. It is
(from/to): % too low.
283 Field value too The value entered does not match Enter the value correctly.
high. Allowed range the range defined in the form. The
(from/to): % value is too high.

286 Error in An error has occurred in the

Windows System Windows system (Photon)
(errno=~)
288 This field only This field only accepts numerical Change the entry.
accepts numerical entries.
characters
305 No contact to No contact to host. Check if the host is turned on.

host Check if there are network problems.
312 At least one At least one coordinate (X- Check changed coordinates in 'Teachin'.
coordinate is out of position, Y-position) is out of
range allowable range. The value
entered was 0 or negative.
321 Error during An error occurred when Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
communication communicating with a NetPC If the message is displayed again, switch
with sub-module over the network. the system off and restart.
Sub-modules: barcode reader, Contact a service technician if the error
camera persists.
322 Protective door The system cannot be started Close the protective door.
not closed while the protective door is open. If this message appears although the
protective door is closed, contact a
service technician.
(Check the door sensors.
Check PIO port 14; card 1.)
334 A communication error to the Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.

Communication camera module occurred. If the message is indicated again, switch
error with camera the system off and restart.
module If the error continues, notify the service
technician.
358 % Centrifuge 1. Communication problems

responds with "not 2. Wrong parameter in the
acknowledge" centrifuge program; general
parameters 40
373 No rack in There should be a rack in position

position RAI of RAI (internal rack output).
rack transport %' However, the sensor at this
position could not detect a rack.
I/O channel of the sensor: <%1>
Sensor active state: <%2>

377 Automatic The PIO pin %1 has exceeded its Turn the system off and on to avoid
deactivation of PIO maximum active time of %2 hardware damages.
pin failed seconds. The automatic reset of
the pin failed.
386 % Error on An error occured during saving Check if the respective data set is
saving the changes the parameter <%1> existing and, if necessary, create it.
in General in General Parameters <%2>.
Parameters %3
387 Error in config In the configuration file Add the missing parameter to
file for Teasy config/Teasy.cfg the parameter configuration file or ask PVT
%1 for support.
is not existing.
388 Message prior The position is moved to, after

to start of position pressing the <OK> button.
check If applicable, hook the spring back
on as the Z-axis will be switched
off after attaining the position.
389 Message after The position saved was moved to.

end of position After pressing the <Ok> button
check the idle current is switched off
again.
390 Motor control Ready signal of a motor control For error recovery the system must be
board not ready % board failed after execution of the shutdown and turned off and on at the
last command. main switch.
395 Soiling in the The camera detected soiling in the Try to continue operation by pressing
image window image window. This may be 'Repeat'. Open the housing of the tube
displayed during initial operation type recognition module and clean the
or incorrect shutdown. In these areas (lens, surface of the black
cases, press the 'Repeat' button. background) in the section concerned
(see Operator's Manual, Chapter
'Maintenance').
396 Object in the Object (cap, label ...) in the image Try to continue operation by pressing
image window window. The message may be 'Repeat'.
displayed during initial operation Open the camera housing and remove
or incorrect shutdown. In these the object.
cases, press the 'Repeat' button.
397 Memory could Memory could not be allocated. Contact a service technician.
not be allocated Internal problem with the camera.

398 Could not read The stored reference image, on Contact a service technician.
reference image basis of which the check is carried Is the reference image currently existing
out, does not exist, cannot be read in the directory?
or cannot be found. 'usr/pvt/subsys/rsa_cam/'
The message is also displayed Carry out 'tube_location' if no reference
when a system has been re- image exists.
installed.
399 Different size of The stored reference image does Contact a service technician.
reference and not match the dimensions of the
acquired image image which is currently taken.
Possible reason: System
conversion is incomplete.
410 % System System pressure is not in the valid Check if the compressor is turned on.
pressure is not in range. Wait until the compressor has reached
the valid range Cylinder may not be controlled the operating pressure.
without errors. After pressing [Repeat], the sequence of
operations is re-launched.
Refer to the Pneumatics chapter in the
service manual.
411 24V power 24V power supply for NetPC is

supply for NetPC is not available.
not available.
412 Cap not in During decapping, the cap did not Check to see if the cap lies in the
waste tube % fall through the waste tube. working area or is still hanging in the
gripper.
If so, logout and turn off the system to
remove the cap by using the forceps.
If not, with [Repeat] the sequence of
operations is relaunched.
413 Door not closed The door of the corresponding Close the door.
sensor % module is not closed. After pressing [Repeat], the sequence of
Sensor (%1) operation is re-launched.
418 % The cap could not be removed Please check to see if the cap of the tube
from the tube without error. must be disposed manually.
The rotary gripper was opened. If necessary the system must be turned
off.
After confirming the error notification,
the system tries to return the tube to the
rack transport and to continue work.

419 % The cap could not be removed Please check to see if the tube has been
from the tube without error. transferred properly into the transport
The lifting gripper is now getting conveyor and that the cap is no longer
opened located in the working area. If necessary
the system must be turned off.
420 % Error when sending a command Try to remedy the error by pressing the
to the motor control board. [Repeat] button. The error may be
corrected by restarting the system.
Contact a service technician if this does
not solve the problem or if the error
persists.
421 1 Error (1) An error occurred during the Try to rectify the error by pressing
reference switch check of the reference position. [Repeat].
monitoring % Reference runs are performed If the error occurs often and regularly,
regularly during normal you should have a service technician
operation. Since stepping errors check the motor, axis or limit switch.
are corrected automatically, this is
normally not a serious error.
When the error occurs, the
current positioning is
immediately terminated, and all
further commands already sent to
the motor control board get
deleted when this error occurs
(address=%1).
422 2 Error in (2) Encoder error (hardware) in Turn the system off and on.
encoder monitoring the motor control group. Notify a service technician if the error
The encoder signals are logically occurs again.
incorrect. There is a hardware (De-energize motor. Check encoder.)
error (at DMS). When this error
occurs, the current position is
immediately terminated and all
further commands are deleted.
Red Fail-LED on the motor
control board is blinking. This
error is corrected only after
hardware reset (address=%1).

423 3 Error active (3) Error monitoring for Error in the drive system: Block the
revolution positioning commands. motor axis, poor belt tension, poor
monitoring % The tolerance was exceeded regulation parameters, motor problems,
during or after the motor loose tooth wheel, etc.
movement. Refer to the Mechanics chapter in the
When this error occurs, the service manual.
current position is immediately
terminated and all further
commands are deleted
(address=%1).
424 4 Error Motor control card Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
standstill (4) Error in standstill monitoring If the error continues, logout and turn
monitoring % for positioning commands. off the system.
After positioning, the axis is not Contact a service technician if the error
in the required position. persists.
Reasons: bad regulation
parameters, axis was deflected
manually (address=%1)
425 5 No barcode (5) Motor control board awaited See Service Manual -> Mechanics
found % an interruption signal from the
barcode scanner.
The entire buffer is deleted
(address=%1).
426 6 Error when (6) Error when following up. See Service Manual -> Electronics.
following up % The entire buffer is deleted.
(address=%1)
430 A Transfer (A) Transfer error (parity) Check the cabling to the motor control
error % (address=%1) board.
Communication error from the See Service Manual -> Electronics.
computer to the DMS/SMS
control boards.
Red fail LED is blinking
431 B Check sum B) Checksum error in control Check the RS485 interface (hardware).
error in control telegram
telegram % (address=%1)
Communication error from the
computer to the DMS/SMS
control boards.

432 C Error (C) Command structure error in Check interface protocol.

command structure control telegram.
control telegram % The entire buffer is deleted.
(address=%1)
433 D Check sum ((D) Check sum error in the Check the RS485 interface (hardware).
error in the instruction telegram.
instruction Communication error from the
telegram % computer to the DMS/SMS
control boards.
(address=%1)
434 E Error (E) Command structure error in Check interface protocol.

command structure instruction telegram.
instruction The buffer is not changed
telegram % (address=%1).
435 F No execution (F) There is no execution Restart the system.

command in the command for the DMS board in
buffer % the buffer.
Synchronizing error from RS485
interface between the computer
and the DMS control boards.
The buffer is not changed
(address=%1).
436 G Defective (G) Defective fuse at the motor Replace defective fuse of the motor
fuse % control group. The error is not control group. Upon repetition, check
reset after status inquiry. short connection (motor, cable).
(address=%1) See Service Manual -> Electronics.
437 H Motor (H) End-amplifier power supply. Upon repetition, check the voltages
undervoltage % Insufficient or excess voltage. (24V, 35V).
The error is not reset after status See Service Manual -> Electronics.
inquiry. (address=%1)
438 I Excessive end (I) Excessive end stage Turn the system off, check the motor
stage temperature temperature. temperature and heat sink temperature
% The error is not reset after status (DMS/SMS) and let everything cool
inquiry (address=%1). down.
If the error recurs, check the motor
control board and the motor.
Refer to the Electronics chapter in the
service manual.

439 J Error in (J) End-amplifier current Check board and motor. Possible end-
current monitoring monitoring error. amplifier driver defective.
end-amplifier % (address=%1) See Service Manual -> Electronics
If the axis goes riding against the
stop and the motor gets short-
circuited, the current monitoring
signals this.
A begun positioning gets aborted.
440 K Error at Error at the motor control board Contact a service technician.
controller selection DMS (address=%1): Check the regulation parameters.
% (K) Error at selection of Replace DMS board.
predefined regulation parameters
(from the EPROM) is possible at
G-commands (controller selection
from EPROM) only.
441 L Initialization (L) Initialization error. Check belt tension.

error % The home switch was not reached Turn axis currentless and check freedom
or the monitoring times were of movement.
exceeded at initialization Check red fail LED on the motor control
(address=%1). board.
See Service Manual -> Electronics,
Mechanics
442 M Home sensor (M) Error and home sensor. Check drive system and home sensor.
error (driven in Home sensor is reached or was Turn axis currentless and check freedom
home sensor) % not left. of movement.
When the error occurs, the See Service Manual -> Electronics;
initiated positioning is terminated Mechanics
(address=%1)
444 Data buffer (O) Data buffer overflow Re-boot the system.
overflow % (address=%1).
!!! You may not be able to
continue working without errors
!!!
The entire buffer is deleted when
this error occurs.

445 P Defined (P) The defined maximum The position to be reached is farther
maximum position position was exceeded than the maximum positions indicated
exceeded % (address=%1). in the motor parameters.
Use the log file to determine which
position should be reached.
Is this position correct?
If yes, adapt to the maximum position of
the corresponding motor / parameter.
446 Error PID filter Error at DMS motor control Retry by pressing the [Repeat] button.
% board (address=%1): If the error continues, notify the service
(Q) PID filter error in the internal technician.
controller. Bad value in the (Check the rule parameters.
regulation parameters. Replace DMS board)
447 R Error: (R) Error: Initialization necessary Contact a service engineer.

Initialization (motor controller). Check the 5V Voltage and the 5V fuse.
necessary After any "Reset" (hardware or Check the "Initstring" in the log file.
software) the system must be re-
initialized because otherwise no
positioning would be possible.
Error (R) indicates the reset mode
of the controller card: for example
a 5V voltage interruption or a
problem with the "Initstring"
(%1).
449 % (address=%1) In order to continue the operation carry

No complete error message from out the following:
motor controller (DMS) received. - Press the [Repeat] button in the
message window.
- Restart the system. Please note that the
system has to be turned off at the main
switch.
If the error persists, contact a service
technician.
470 % Error Error initializing the bar code Press the [Repeat] button to retry the
initializing bar code scanner, Name=%1. operation. If this does not work, attempt
scanner to rectify the error by restarting the
system.
If the error is not rectified please inform
the service technician.

500 Cylinder Cylinder %1 has not reached the As the case may be, remove the obstacle.
movement error % sensor at the home position. As the case may be, turn the valve on.
Possible causes: As the case may be, re-adjust the sensor.
- End position not reached due to Contact a service technician if the sensor
an obstacle. is defective.
- Valve was not turned on. By pressing [Repeat], the action is
- Sensor was incorrectly installed repeated.
or is defective. Refer to the Pneumatics chapter in the
service manual.
501 Cylinder Cylinder %1 has not reached the As the case may be, remove the obstacle.
movement error % home position (channel %2). As the case may be, turn on the valve.
Possible causes: As the case may be, re-adjust the sensor.
- Home position could not be Contact a service technician if the sensor
reached due to an obstacle. is defective.
- Sensor was incorrectly installed By pressing [Repeat], the action is
or is defective. repeated.
- Valve was not turned on. Refer to the Pneumatics chapter in the
service manual.
502 Cylinder Cylinder %1 did not reach the As the case may be, remove the obstacle.
movement error % sensor in the working position As the case may be, turn on the valve.
(channel %2). As the case may be, re-adjust the sensor.
Possible causes: Contact a service technician if the sensor
- Working position could not be is defective.
reached due to an obstacle. By pressing [Repeat], the action is
- Sensor was incorrectly installed repeated.
or is defective. Refer to the Pneumatics chapter in the
- Valve was not turned on. service manual.
508 % Sensor Start The sensor for the start position Press the [Repeat] button.
Position of the on the cylinder is still active. The Notify a service technician if the error
cylinder % is still sensor is possibly defective. persists.
active Cylinder: %1 (Check if the sensor is active.
I/O channel of the start position: Check if the sensor is correctly adjusted.
%2 Check the logic of the senor.)
509 % Sensor Work The sensor for the work position Press the [Repeat] button.
Position of the on the cylinder is still active. The Notify a service technician if the error
cylinder % is still sensor is possibly defective. persists.
active Cylinder: %1 (Check if the sensor is active.
I/O channel of the work position: Check if the sensor is correctly adjusted.
%2 Check the logic of the senor.)
602 Unknown error, please provide

the software error number

603 % Missing During the loading process the New coordinates must be created (Carry
coordinates abbreviation for the coordinates out "teach in").
of a workplace is not available/
abbreviations for the coordinates
of a workplaces are not available.
604 % Workplace The workplace "ARCHIVE" is Create the workplace "ARCHIVE".

"ARCHIVE" is required for archiving mode. But
missing this has not been created.
605 %DEFAULT Processing requires a workplace In the main menu item "Reference Data"
workplace is not for system errors. The correct the following must be checked:
clearly defined abbreviation for the workplace to - abbreviation of the workplaces
be used must be entered in the
field "error allocation" under
"Reference Data -> Work Cycles".
628 No rack in A rack was passed from the Check the position of the missing rack.
pick-up position '%' previous module to the RTC If there is already a rack (in opposition
station. to the error message), a sensor fault may
However, the rack sensor at the cause this message.
pick-up position could not detect In this case, contact a service technician.
a rack.
I/O canal of the sensor: <%1>
629 Rack transfer The RTS station has tried to take Check the position of the missing rack.
has failed '%' over a rack from the previous If there is already a rack (in opposition
station, but no rack could be to the error message), a sensor fault may
identified on the transfer position cause this message.
[P-RTS2] of the conveyor. In this case, contact a service technician.
I/O sensor channel: <%1>
Active state of sensor: <%2>
pick-up position '%' previous module to the RTD If there is already a rack (in opposition
module. to the error message), a sensor fault may
a rack.

pick-up position '%' previous module to the RTQ If there is already a rack (in opposition
module. to the error message), a sensor fault may
a rack.
633 No rack in The input module (RTI) tried to Check the position of the missing rack.
transfer position '%' pass a rack to the subsequent If there is already a rack (in opposition
module. However, the sensor at to the error message), a sensor fault may
the transfer position could not cause this message.
detect a rack. In this case, contact a service technician.
634 No rack in The module for cap detection Check the position of the missing rack.
transfer position '%' (RTC) tried to pass a rack to the If there is already a rack (in opposition
subsequent module. However, the to the error message), a sensor fault may
sensor at the transfer position cause this message.
could not detect a rack. In this case, contact a service technician.
635 No rack in The rack sorter module (RTS) Check the position of the missing rack.
transfer position '%' tried to pass a rack to the If there is already a rack (in opposition
subsequent module. However, the to the error message), a sensor fault may
sensor at the transfer position cause this message.
could not detect a rack. In this case, contact a service technician.
636 Sliding off rack A rack should have been sled off Check the position of the missing rack.
has failed '%' from RFI (internal rack input) to If there is already a rack (in opposition
the conveyor, but the sensor at to the error message), a sensor fault may
this position cannot sense a rack cause this message.
on the conveyor. In this case, contact a service technician.
I/O sensor channel: <%1>
Active state of sensor: <%2>

638 Sliding on a The system tried to slide on a rack

rack failed '%' from the conveyor to RSP1 (rack
storage place 1). However, the
sensor in this position does sill
detect a rack on the conveyor.


641 Sliding off a The system tried to slide off a rack

rack failed '%' from RAI (internal rack output)
onto the conveyor. However, the
sensor in this position does not
652 Please feed % The timer of a rack, located on Feed corresponding dummy rack into
rack(s) into the one of the three RSP rack set the system.
system (timer for buffers has expired. Since this
rack on RSP position is not yet completely
expired) filled, processing of the rack
cannot be processed.
653 Rack did not The output module tried to

reach slide-off transport a rack in the slide-off
position '%' position <%1>. However, the
sensor in this position did not
detect a rack.

654 No rack in There should be a rack in the Check the position of the missing rack.
output position '%' output position <%1>. If there is already a rack (in opposition
However, the sensor in this to the error message), a sensor fault may
position did not detect a rack. cause this message.
I/O canal of the sensor: <%2> In this case, contact a service technician.
655 No output tray The output module (RTO) is Insert (empty) tray in the output
available '%' trying to slide off a rack from the module.
conveyor. However, there is no
tray available to be slid on.
656 Output tray not The output module (RTO) is Insert (empty) tray in the output
inserted '%' trying to slide off a rack onto the module.
output tray <%1>. However, the
tray is not inserted.
657 Output tray full The output module (RTO) is Insert (empty) tray in the output
'%' trying to slide off a rack onto the module.
output tray <%1> but the tray is
full.
658 Sliding off rack The output module (RTO) tried Check if the rack got stuck at the
failed '%' to slide off a rack onto the output indicated position.
tray <%1>. However, the rack If the rack has been correctly pushed off,
sensor of this tray did still detect a a sensor fault may cause this message.
rack on the conveyor. In this case, contact a service technician.
663 Error: Tube The tube got stuck in the gripper Remove the tube from the gripper by
sticking in the and cannot be put down. hand.
gripper WARNING: Wear protective gloves
when handling the tube!
Inform a service technician if the error
persists.
664 Checksum An error occurred during Check the interface to the centrifuge
error with communication with the (hardware).
centrifuge % centrifuge. Press the [Repeat] button. If the error
Address: %1 recurs, power cycle the system at the
respective main switches (sorter and
centrifuge(s)).
CAUTION: Manually clear the sorting
area after restart!
Notify a service technician if the error
persists.

670 Empty rack The empty rack input could not

input tray not be activated since there is no tray
inserted '%' inserted.
I/O channel of the sensor: <%1>
673 Incorrect The key switch must be in Turn the key-operated switch clockwise
position of the key- position 'LOCK2' that it is to end-position.
operated switch possible to control the centrifuge 'LOCK2' appears in the display.
by the serial interface.
715 Lid lock not The switch below the lid locking is Switch the key lock into correct position.
closed not closed. Check whether the switch is functioning
properly when the lid is closed.
716 Hatch not According to the state of its end Switch the key lock in correct position.
closed switch, the hatch inside the Check the function of the end switch
centrifuge's lid is not closed. when the hatch is closed.
717 Rotor position The rotor has not reached its Switch the key lock in correct position.
not reached designated position. Open the centrifuge and check if the
rotor is obstructed.
722 Improper value The centrifuge reports: improper Make sure that the key lock is in the
or command not value or command not allowed. correct position (to the right). Check the
allowed '%' Either a parameter for a parameters of your centrifuge programs.
centrifuge program is out of range
or the centrifuge is in a state in
which it does not allow
commands.
723 Image is Actual background image is Check for foreign object in front of the
overexposed % overexposed. camera.
Check background and lens for soiling.
Reboot System.
Inform a service technician.
724 % Error on Error on communication via Check to see if the system is operational.
communication via network. Writing or reading over Attempt to continue operation with
network the network failed. [Repeat].
Restart the system if the error persists.
Check the cabling of the network or
contact your service technician.

5.4.2 Informative messages

The system can also display messages which are purely informational in nature or which are
requesting a confirmation for a selected process. These messages are listed in the following
table.
Message Description Action
001 Record '%' A record has been deleted in the Serves for information purposes only.
deleted general parameters.
004 Really delete The system asks twice whenever Enter [Y] to confirm or [N].
this record? Enter you try to delete data records.
'Y/N' again to
confirm!
005 Data record '%' A data record in the general Serves as information.
changed parameters has been changed.
006 Data record '%' A data record has been inserted in Serves as information.
inserted the general parameters.
012 ISAM: Data A data record was searched for, Enter the correct abbreviation. If you do
record '%' not found deleted or changed in the general not know the abbreviation, you can
(NOTFOUND). parameters programs and a non- search for it in the general parameters
existent abbreviation was entered. data by using 'back' and 'next'. You can
display a list of the abbreviations from
'Print' and 'Monitor'. Report the
problem to your service technician.
013 ISAM: Data You cannot create the data record Enter the correct abbreviation. If you do
record '%' already because it already exists in the not know the abbreviation, you can
exists (EXISTS) system. search for it in the general parameters
data by using [back] and [next]. You can
display a list of the abbreviations from
'Print' and 'Monitor'. Report the
problem to your service technician.
014 ISAM: Record

'%' locked
(LOCKED)
015 ISAM: End of You have reached the last (first) Select 'Back' ('Next') if you have reached
file or range data record in the general the last (first) data record.
(RANGEEND) parameters programs and entered
'Next' ('Back').
015 ISAM: End of You have reached the last (first) Select 'Backward' ('Forward') if you have
file or range data record in the general reached the last (first) data record.
(RANGEEND) parameters programs and entered
'Forward' ('Backward').

046 Backup file '%' The configuration file cannot be Delete the backup file at the level of the
cannot be deleted saved to an intermediate backup operating system and then re-generate
because the old backup file cannot the configuration file.
be deleted.
047 Files cannot be The renaming of the new and old Delete the backup of the configuration
renamed configuration files has failed. file at the level of the operating system
and then re-generate the configuration
file.
051 Output tray full The output tray is filled with Insert empty rack tray.
racks.
052 Output tray is No rack tray has been inserted Insert a rack tray into the output station.
not inserted into the output station.
053 Record copied Message displayed while copying

to <%> coordinate data records from and
to the archive.
057 Bad date or The day of the week has to be Enter the correct date, day of the week
time (not stored) entered additionally to ensure that and time.
the data is entered correctly. This
error message is issued whenever
the date does not match the day of
the week.
058 Deleting data You cannot delete this data Contact a service technician if the occurs
has not been record! again.
enabled!
057 Bad date or The day of the week has to be Enter the correct date, day of the week
time (not stored) entered additionally to ensure that and time.
the data is entered correctly. This
error message is issued whenever
the date does not match the day of
the week.
082 P Defined (P) The defined maximum Use the log file to determine which
maximum position position was exceeded. (%1) position the system should be moved
exceeded The programmed position into. Is this position correct?
exceeds the maximum position If so, then adjust the maximum position
defined in the motor parameters. for the motor/ parameter set.

092 Bad entry Operator has made a bad entry or Check if the program supports all the
does not have access to the option menu items or input forms that have
that is not supported by the been cleared for the menu file or the
program. screen file, respectively.
Pay attention to the entry in the log file
on troubleshooting.
137 Start The selected sorting list is This message is only provided for your
transferring list '%' transferred to the host. information.
to host
189 Tube type not Tube type not defined.

defined
210 Mainten Would you like to reset the sub

confirmation dialog counter <%1> ?
217 Sorter door not The protective door in front of the Close the door to the sorter area.
closed sorter area is not properly closed. Check if the magnet sensor indicates
that the door is closed.
218 System stopped All processes have been stopped 1. Switch off the system.
since the sorting area is no longer 2. Turn on the system.
secured. 3. Continue with your regular routine.
280 Entry not A certain entry is not allowed in a Enter the correct characters.
allowed field (e.g., alphabetic characters in
numeric fields).
281 Required field: The field has been declared as a The user has to enter data in this field.
You must enter data required field in the form file.
282 Field value too The value entered does not match Enter the correct value.
low. Allowed range the range defined in the form.
(from/to): % It is too low.
283 Field value too The value entered does not match Enter the value correctly.
high. Allowed range the range defined in the form.
(from/to): % The value is too high.
288 This field only This field only accepts numerical Change the entry.
accepts numerical entries
characters
298 Preparing The Reference Data are being Wait until the system is finished.
Reference Data prepared. Please contact service if rebooting does
not help.
316 Perform logout Do you want to perform the

logout?

357 % Terminate all Are you sure that you want to

racks terminate all racks?
362 % The primary The primary counter <%1> and

and secondary any secondary counters it has will
counters will be be reset!
reset
363 % Teachin: You cannot start the Teachin Change to standby mode using the
System must be in program in operation mode. [Standby] button.
STANDBY mode! The system must be in standby
mode.
364 % Open Is the gripper supposed to be

gripper? opened?
376 PIO pin % reset

because max active
time exceeded
384 % Not all The following modules must first Not all modules required have been
modules required be configured (see Remedy): configured.
have been %1 Confirm with <OK> if you want to
configured %2 configure the module nevertheless.
%3
%4
%5
385 % Modules The following modules must be Modules have already been configured
must be reconfigured due to this change: which are based on this module.
reconfigured due to %1 Changing parameters of this module
this change %2 requires reconfiguring the modules
%3 connected to guarantee correct
%4 operation.
%5
388 Message prior The position is moved to, after

to start of position pressing the <OK> button.
check If applicable, hook the spring back
on as the Z-axis will be switched
off after attaining the position.
389 Message after The position saved was moved to.

end of position After pressing the <Ok> button
check the idle current is switched off
again.

394 (Teasy) Start Preparations for Teasy.

dialog This may only be done by trained
personnel! The sorting door must
be opened and a magnet must be
attached to the door sensor.
Now, Teasy is ready for use and
you can select a module.
605 DEFAULT Processing requires a workplace In the main menu item "Reference Data"
workplace is not for system errors. The correct the following must be checked:
clearly defined abbreviation for the workplace to - abbreviation of the workplaces
be used must be entered in the
field "error allocation" under
"Reference Data -> Work Cycles".
620 Input 1 not

inserted
621 Input tray 2 not

inserted
622 Output 1 not

inserted
623 Output tray 2

not inserted
624 Output tray 3

not inserted
642 Statistical message for the log file.

STATS_RACK_IN The input module slid a rack into
'% the system.

STATS_RACK_OU The output module slid a rack off
T '%' the system.
644 STATS_CAM Statistical message for the log file.

'%' The cap detection module
completed cap detection of one
tube.

STATS_RACK_SO The rack sorter module sorted a
RT '%' rack from the conveyor into a
rack storage place (RSP) or sorted
a rack from the internal rack
output (RAI) on the conveyor.

662 Check the drop WARNING: Before you put down

position the tube in the drop position,
check if the drop container is
empty. If not, clear the drop
container and afterwards confirm
the message by pressing [OK] to
continue operation. Wear
protective gloves when handling
the tube!
670 Empty rack The empty rack input could not

input tray not be activated since there is no tray
inserted '%' inserted. I/O channel of the
sensor: <%1>
673 Incorrect The key switch must be in Turn the key-operated switch clockwise
position of the key- position 'LOCK2' that it is to end-position.
operated switch possible to control the centrifuge 'LOCK2' appears in the display.
by the serial interface.
702 Attention: Attention: If Simulation Mode is required, confirm

Simulation mode The system is operating in the message with [OK].
active Simulation Mode. After this, the system continues the
There is no communication with simulation routine
the laboratory host. Samples are
not being processed according to
actual requirements.
703 Attention: Attention: If Simulation Mode is required, confirm

Simulation mode on The system is connected to a the message with [OK].
SilverServer active SilverServer which is operating in After this, the system continues the
Simulation Mode. There is no simulation routine.
communication with the
laboratory host.
Samples are not being processed
according to actual requirements.
705 Teasy: Position Attention: The coordinate of Confirm the message with [OK] to save
goes below <%1> goes below a defined the position or with [Abort] to correct
minimum value minimum value. the position.
707 Reset of the Confirm the message with [OK] to reset

menu the Teasy menu.
708 Teasy: <%1> exceeds maximum position. Confirm the message with [OK] the save
Maximum position the position or with [Abort] to correct
exceeded the position.


Part F
6. Appendix
cobas p 671
II Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671
6. Appendix ...................................................................................................... I
6.1. Scope of delivery ........................................................................................ 6-1
6.2. Technical Data ............................................................................................ 6-2
6.2.1 Power supply................................................................................................................... 6-2
6.2.2 Compressed air supply................................................................................................ 6-2
6.2.3 Operating conditions ................................................................................................... 6-2
6.2.4 Ambient climatic conditions ..................................................................................... 6-3
6.2.5 Heat emission ................................................................................................................. 6-3
6.2.6 Device reliability............................................................................................................. 6-3
6.2.7 Noise levels...................................................................................................................... 6-3
6.2.8 Colors ................................................................................................................................. 6-3
6.2.9 Interfaces .......................................................................................................................... 6-4
6.2.10 Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic centrifuge ............................................................... 6-4
6.2.11 Sample Tubes ................................................................................................................. 6-5
6.2.12 RD / Hitachi 5-slot racks (MPA) ............................................................................. 6-6
6.2.13 Barcode reader .............................................................................................................. 6-7
6.3. Floorplan ....................................................................................................... 6-8
6.4. Accessories.................................................................................................. 6-9
6.5. Glossary ......................................................................................................6-10
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 III

cobas p 671
IV Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Scope of delivery
6.1. Scope of delivery

Article Amount
cobas p 671 centrifuge unit, incl. control unit (computer) and operating unit 1
Centrifuge (Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic; 230 V or 115 V) 2
Power cord 1
Compressed air connector 1
Compressed air hose, including couplings (NW 7.2 / G ¼“), 3 meters 1
Compressed air hose, including couplings (NW 7.2 / G ¼“), 5 meters 1
Tool set (mains fuses, lamps, etc.) 1
Camera cleaning kit 1
Rack tray for 30 5-slot racks (MPA) 3
Rotor for centrifuge Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic 2
Holder for centrifuge rack sets 8
System software (QNX operating system, control software) on CD-ROM 1
Modem 56 K, including cable (230 V or 115 V) 1
Operator’s Manual 1
Test certificate 1
'Phindows' software tool 1
Crate for shipment 1
USB memory stick 1
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-1

Technical Data cobas p 671
6.2. Technical Data
6.2.1 Power supply

230 Volt version 115 Volt version
Standard voltage 230 V AC 115 V AC
Permissible tolerance +/- 10 % +/- 10 %
Power frequency 50/60 Hz 50/60 Hz
Power consumption 450 Watt 450 Watt
(without centrifuges)
Maximum power consumption (≤ 1 s) 650 Watt 650 Watt
Current consumption 2.0 A 4.0 A
Maximum current consumption (≤ 1 s) 2.8 A 5.6 A
Mains fuse (IEC 127-2): T 6.3 AH; 250 V T 10 AH; 250 V
Protection class I I
Overvoltage surge category II II
Pollution degree (to DIN IEC 664) 2 2
6.2.2 Compressed air supply

Air dry and oil-free
Pressure dew point (at 6.0 bar) +3°C (+37.4°F)
Maximum remaining water content approx. 6g/m³
Pressure supply min. 6.0 bar (87.02 psi), max. 8.0 bar (116.03 psi)
Pressure min. 6.0 bar (87.02 psi), max. 6.5 bar (94.3 psi)
Air consumption supply approx. 20.0 l/min (5.3 gals/min)
Air consumption approx. 15.0 l/min (4.0 gals/min)
Particle filter < 40 µm
Connection Hose coupling NW 7.2 (G ¼")
6.2.3 Operating conditions

Designed for indoor operation up to 2000 meters above sea level.
6-2 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Technical Data
6.2.4 Ambient climatic conditions

During operations
Specified operating temperature range +15°C to +30°C (+59°F to +86 °F)

Max. relative humidity 80% in between +15 °C to +30 °C (+59°F to +86 °F)
Safe operating temperature range +5°C to +40°C (+41°F to +104 °F) acc. to UL 61010-1
During storage and transportation
Environment temperature -20 °C to +55 °C (- 4°F to 131°F) not exceeding 72

hours
Max. relative humidity 85% at +40°C (104°F) not exceeding 48 hours
6.2.5 Heat emission

cobas p 671 Approx. 16,020 kJ/h / 3,826 kcal/h / 15,184 BTU/h
6.2.6 Device reliability

The following average operating times are assumed to determine the degree of utilization of
the cobas p 671:
• Five days a week, working in one shift of
o Six hours routine operation per day
o Six hours standby per day
• 4,800 samples per day (based on a throughput of 800 tubes/hour)
If the actual average operating times exceed those stated above, the planned maintenance and
service intervals must be adapted accordingly.
Longer average operating times will also shorten the guarantee and warranty periods.
All listed Mean Time Between Repair Visits (MTBRV) are valid for a system (without
options) used for 350,000 sorting cycles per year and maintained at fixed intervals.
• MTBRV: 120 days (3 calls/year)
• Minimum lifetime reliability: 2.5 mill. tube sorting cycles
6.2.7 Noise levels

Average noise levels 58.2 db (A), tolerance +/- 1.5 dB (A)
Peak level (max. 1 s) 67 db (A), tolerance +/- 1.5 dB (A)
6.2.8 Colors
The cobas p 671 system is delivered in the following colors:
• Housing “white” (RAL 9003)
• Protective cover “clear blue” (NCS S1050-B)
• Metal covers “metallic anthracite” (NCS S5502-G)
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-3

6.2.9 Interfaces
External interfaces on the cobas p 671 are provided for:
• Power supply
• Modem (analog)
• LIS serial (RS232)
• Service port
o network communication for RTools and/or Phindows via service notebook
(standalone mode only)
o network interconnection to subsequent system
• Compressed air inlet
6.2.10 Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic centrifuge

Width Depth Height Weight
Centrifuge 0.55 m 0.68 m 0.68 m 156 kg
Performance data
Max. capacity 4 x 750 ml
Max. RPM 6200 r/min
Max. RCF 5845
Permitted density 1.2 kg/dm³
Infinitely adjustable temperature control -20°C to 40°C (-4 °F to +104 °F)
Power supply
230 Volt version 115 Volt version
Nominal voltage 230 V AC 115 V AC
Frequency 50 Hz 60 Hz
Connected load max. 3600 W max. 3600 W
(both centrifuges) (both centrifuges)
6-4 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

6.2.11 Sample Tubes

Tube diameter and length of the tube are normally rounded up or down on full millimeters
in the manufacturers brochures. Nevertheless, most standard tubes of the manufacturers fit
our limitations. For example, the BD 16 x 100 serum tube, has a diameter of 15.3 mm that fits
perfectly into the possible tube dimensions of our system.
All established hematology, coagulation, serum, plasma and urine tubes manufactured by
BD, Sarstedt, Kabe, Greiner and Terumo can be used.
Usage of plastic tubes is mandatory. If the cap diameter is smaller than or equal to the tube
diameter, these tubes cannot be used. Difference in width of cap and tube must be at least
2 mm (1 mm difference on each side; the cap diameter must not be smaller than the tube
diameter).
Tubes with dark coloured cap, transparent cap, gray cap or white cap can not be used.
Several combinations of coloured caps cannot be used, please refer to “qualified tubes list”.
Greiner ridged tubes can be used after testing by Roche PVT.
There might be the possibility that special parameters are needed and the throughput
decreases. Mixed mode of ridged tubes and non-ridged tubes with same cap color is not
possible (see “qualified tubes list”). Greiner Premium tubes open might show sorting
problems but not any negative feedback has been received from costumers yet.
The fill-up quantity specified by the manufacturer of tubes must neither exceed nor fall
below the specified value.
NOTICE
The tube should always have standard bottom (round). Tubes with conical bottom can not be used.
Tube / cap dimensions:
Minimum Maximum
Height of tube 65.5 mm 108 mm (with cap)
(without cap) 117 mm (Sarstedt 10 ml urine sample
tube with cap)
Tube diameter 11.5 mm 15.5 mm
Cap diameter 13.4 mm 18.0 mm
Cap height (without nose) 5.0 mm 30.0 mm
The tube must have a standard bottom (round). Tubes with conical or flat bottom cannot be
used.
It is not possible to use open tubes.
The tube supplier Sarstedt has changed the design for tubes with the size 11x66 mm. The
new design of 11x66 tubes has a round bottom instead of the flat bottom. Unfortunately
Sarstedt has not changed their article numbers. Consequently tubes with flat bottom and
rounded bottom can be found at the same time (see qualified tubes list).
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-5

It is not possible to use tubes with cups mounted in place (e.g. Hitachi Cup on tube) as well
as tubes with snap rings.
Up to 3 different tube types can be processed on the system in one run. All released tube
types are listed in the “qualified tubes list”. Roche PVT checks all the tubes that are going to
be used on the system whether this specific combination of tubes can be processed in one
run. If later, different
tubes should be used, Roche PVT has to check the new tubes.
6.2.12 RD / Hitachi 5-slot racks (MPA)

Rack type 1 Rack type 2
Width / depth / height (mm) 117 / 20 / 69 117 / 20 / 69
Diameter of tube holder 13.4 mm 16.3 mm
6-6 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

6.2.13 Barcode reader

Type Laser scanner
Protection class IP 64
Max. laser output performance 1 mW
Wavelength 630 – 680 nm
Scanning rate 1000 scans/sec
Laser class Class 2 (IEC 825-1); Class II (CDRH)
Resolution Bar and space width min. 0.15 mm (module width)
Rest area Usually standard module width complies 0.3 mm
15 times module width (e.g. 0.3 mm) is equal to 4.5 mm
Contrast PCS value of the barcode, min. 80 % (EN 1635)
Reading accuracy As specified by the manufacturer
Rate of reading errors: < 1 : 1,000,000
Rate of non-readings: < 1 : 1,000
Label color White (no colored barcode labels)
6.2.13.1 Barcodes
The barcodes (type, length, check digit) are configured using the system software. Up to six
different codes can be set and read within a single configuration. All barcodes must be
defined either with or without a check digit. The use of check digits can reduce the rate of
read errors.
NOTICE
Roche PVT accepts no liability for read errors resulting from missing check digits, poor quality
labels or insufficient maintenance.
Readable barcodes
Barcodes must conform to the standards set out by DIN EN 1635 (test specifications for
barcode symbols), ANSI X 3.182-1990 (barcode printing quality) and ISO/IEC 15416.
• 2 of 5 interleaved (DIN EN 801, ISO/IEC 16390)
• Codabar (DIN EN 798)
• Code 39 (DIN EN 800, ISO/IEC 16388)
• Code 128 (DIN EN 799, ISO/IEC 15417)
• EAN128 (GS1-128)(ISO/IEC 15417 (15418), ANS MH10.8.2 and GS1 General Spec.)
Ratio: 2.25:1 to 3:1 (not applicable to Code 128)
Further barcodes available upon request.
Calculation of the barcode check digit

• 2 of 5 interleaved: Modulo 10
• Codabar: Modulo 16
• Code 39: Modulo 43
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-7

Floorplan cobas p 671
6.3. Floorplan
Figure 6-1: Floorplan
6-8 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Accessories
6.4. Accessories
The following optional accessories are available for the cobas p 671 centrifuge unit:
• Refrigeration dryer (230 V or 115 V)
• Compressor (230V or 115V), inside low-noise housing including dryer
• Modem 56 K, including cable (230 V or 115 V) *
• Cable, E6.) extension modem (5 m)
• Axeda (for network remote access)
• 'Phindows' software tool *
• USB memory stick *
• Cleaning set for camera *
• Hitachi Modular (MPA) 5-slot racks (d=13mm)
• Hitachi Modular (MPA) 5-slot racks (d=16mm)
• Hitachi Modular (MPA) rack tray** for 30 racks
* included in delivery
** 3 rack trays included in delivery
See spare part list for order numbers.
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-9

Glossary cobas p 671
6.5. Glossary
Term Explanation
5-slot rack (MPA) Container for up to 5 sample tubes.
Button Button displayed on the monitor.
Centrifuge A centrifuge separates the constituent parts from
suspensions, emulsions and gas mixtures.
Centrifuge cabinet Space behind two doors in which the centrifuge is mounted
on a drawer.
Centrifuge program Centrifugation parameters such as time, speed and
temperature assigned to a tube type.
Compensation rack A 5-slot rack (MPA) loaded with 5 water-filled tubes of a
defined type that is used for weight compensation purposes
during the centrifugation step if there are not sufficient 5-
slot racks (MPA) available loaded with primary samples in
the same type of tube.
Compressor Device used to generate compressed air.
Control unit Unit required to operate the system (touch-screen monitor,
keyboard and stick).
Cursor A flashing symbol on the monitor that marks the current
entry position.
Customer configuration, Pre-installed system with specific settings for the customer.
customer system
Dummy rack A 5-slot rack (MPA) loaded with 5 water-filled tubes of a
defined type that is added from the rack set buffer when the
sample processing time has exceeded.
EMC Electromagnetic compatibility.
EPROM Memory chip whose content can only be deleted when
certain conditions are fulfilled.
Ethernet connection Network connection.
Feed-out station Area into which the processed or fed-through samples are
transported for removal.
General parameters Customer-specific and system-specific data.
Graphical user interface Environment in which the user programs and computer
dialogue are presented on the monitor.
Hatch Automatic opening in the centrifuge lid.
Hot key A key or combination of keys that enable rapid selection of a
program or command.
Individual position Sorting fields approached individually by the gripper within
a rack tray or rack.
6-10 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Glossary
Term Explanation
Init, initializing Used to create a defined initial state of the system or a

system component.
Input lever Motor-driven slider designed to transport 5-slot racks
(MPA) to the transfer position (delivery position) of the
input and output modules as well as the internal feed
transport system.
Input module Area in which racks loaded with samples are placed and
transported into the system on the rack conveyor.
Input tray Carrier for 30 5-slot racks (MPA) in the output module.
Key-switch Operating element of the centrifuge unit used to select the
operating mode (automatic or manual).
Laboratory host computer 1. Mainframe computer performing all data processing tasks.
2. Source information for the analysis results requested by
the surgeons and hospitals connected to the laboratory's
mainframe computer.
Log file All procedures performed by the program are logged in a log
file. This is an important aid when troubleshooting.
Multitasking Several programs or processes that can run simultaneously.
Multi-user Several users can be logged onto and work with the system at
the same time.
Online help System help information. These can be displayed by pressing
the right stick button or the hotkey combination [Shift] +
[F1].
On-screen message Field displayed on-screen containing appropriate
information.
Operating system General term for all programs that control and monitor the
implementation of user programs as well as maintain the
operating mode.
Output tray Carrier for 20 or 30 5-slot racks (MPA) to be placed in the
output module.
Photon The name of the graphical user interface (GUI)
Pre-analytic Method and work procedure to process and prepare samples
for analytical purposes.
Primary sample Sample after blood has been taken.

Protective doors Lockable doors and flaps designed to protect the user against
injury.
QNX Operating system used on the system.
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-11

Term Explanation
Rack set Three 5-slot racks (MPA) loaded with the same type of
sample tubes on a holding position. The gripper transports
only rack sets.
Rack set carrier Pivoted container for holding three 5-slot racks (MPA) in
the centrifuge.
Rack transport Conveyor on which the 5-slot racks (MPA) are transported
from the input module to the output module via the various
workstations of the system.
Rack tray Container for 30 5-slot racks (MPA).
Rotor Component of the centrifuge unit. Moveable element on
which the centrifuge rack carriers are held.
Rotor chamber Space inside the centrifuge in which the centrifugation
process takes place.
Routine The daily routine consists of all work procedures on and
with the system.
Screen mask Values cannot be entered in any place of the screen but only
via marked input fields and within a defined range.
Serial interface Communication interface.
Silver Server Computer system that administers patient data and analysis
results from the connected systems.
Sorter unit Unit composed of the sorting axes and gripper.
Sorting axes Three-axis system of the sorter unit.
Standby 1. System status: system operations have been halted; user
intervention is possible.
2. Button on the monitor to stop the system.
Status There are two different statuses on the system: 'Standby' and
'Operation'.
System test Self diagnosis of the system executed following login.
Throughput Number of processed primary samples per unit of time.
Transfer area Defines the entire area in which tubes are sorted.
Transfer position (delivery Position at which the 5-slot racks (MPA) are moved from
position) the conveyor into the output module.
Transfer position (delivery Position at which the 5-slot racks (MPA) are moved from
position, feed-in) the input module onto the conveyor.
Transfer position, rack Position at which the 5-slot racks (MPA) are moved from
transport - transfer area the conveyor into the transfer area.
Transfer position, transfer Position at which the 5-slot racks (MPA) are moved from
area - rack transport the transfer area onto the conveyor.
6-12 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

cobas p 671 Glossary
Term Explanation
Tray carrier Fixture of the input, output and sorting modules on which
the rack trays are held.
Tube recognition Camera recognition of the tube type based on the color of
the cap.
Tube recognition Optical sensors that recognize if a tube is positioned in the
rack.
Work cycle A work cycle includes the time from turning on the system
thru to performing the clear data function. During this time,
all work procedures within the system will be logged and
data relating to tube positions and transfer area occupancy
collected and processed.
Workstation cobas p 671 integrated into pre-analytic sample processing
systems
Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015 6-13

6-14 Appendix v1.4 – 10/2015

p671 Operation Manual

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cobas p 671 centrifuge unit

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II Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015

corresponds with the IVD directive 98/79/EC

Guarantee and warranty

Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015 III

IV Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015

1. General Information ................................................................................... I

1.5. Daily routine ................................................................................................. 1-1

1.8. Workstation .................................................................................................. 1-1

1.11. Abbreviations ............................................................................................... 1-1

2.2. Hardware Description ................................................................................ 2-1

Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015 V

2.2.7 Gripper Unit ..................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.3. Basic information about the software .................................................... 2-1

2.4. Software Description ................................................................................. 2-1

3.3. Preparations for routine operation ......................................................... 3-1

VI Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015

3.4. Routine operation ....................................................................................... 3-1

3.5. Terminating work operation after daily routine ................................... 3-1

4.5. Centrifuge maintenance............................................................................ 4-1

4.6. System cleaning .......................................................................................... 4-1

4.7. Replacing parts ........................................................................................... 4-1

Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015 VII

5.1.2 Air pressure too low ..................................................................................................... 5-1

5.2. What do I do if ...? ....................................................................................... 5-1

5.3. Opening the sorting gripper manually ................................................... 5-1

6.3. Floorplan ....................................................................................................... 6-1

VIII Operator's Manual - Version 1.4 - 10/2015

II General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

1. General Information ................................................................................... I

General Information v1.4 –10/2015 III

IV General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

1.2. Using the operator's manual

General Information v1.4 – 10/2015 1-1

1.3. Signs and symbols in the operator's manual

1-2 General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

1.4. Hazards and precautionary measures

Pay particular attention to the safety instructions when handling samples.

1.4.2 Notes on safety

Safe operation and reliability of the system can only be ensured if

1.4.3 Electrical safety

General Information v1.4 – 10/2015 1-3

1.4.5 Barcode reader (optional)

1-4 General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

1.4.6 Warning labels on the system

A Lower edge of the protective cover (general safety note)

General Information v1.4 – 10/2015 1-5

Figure 1-2: Lid of centrifuge

Figure 1-3: Centrifuge

1-6 General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

Figure 1-4: Mains switch of the centrifuge

Figure 1-5: Tube recognition unit (rear side of device)

General Information v1.4 – 10/2015 1-7

Figure 1-6: Tube type identification module (rear side of device)

A Warning symbol: mains voltage B Warning symbol: laser light (optional)

1-8 General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

Figure 1-8: Barcode reader DS2100N

General Information v1.4 – 10/2015 1-9

Figure 1-10: Interface panel

Figure 1-11: Connection for compressed air supply

1-10 General Information v1.4 – 10/2015

1.5. Daily routine

1.6. Rack types for sample feeding