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Dimension® EXL™ with LM Integrated Chemistry System Troubleshooting Online Training

Resolve error messages. Locate and use the Error Log Screen. Access common replacement procedures in the Operator's Guide. This clinical laboratory training qualifies for continuing education units (CEU).

Access onscreen troubleshooting help Contact the Technical Solutions Center for additional troubleshooting help Identify basic troubleshooting steps to resolve error messages Identify the module of concern by the error message Locate and use the Error Log screen Use the Operator’s Guide as an additional reference Welcome to the Troubleshooting course for the Dimension® EXL™ with LM integrated chemistry system. After completing this course, you will be able to: Select Next to continue. When a system error occurs and the alarm is enabled, the Dimension® EXL™ with LM integrated chemistry system provides the following automatic alerts:   The audible alarm sounds The alarm icon appears An error message appears on the screen       Troubleshooting Resources Learn about Troubleshooting Resources Slide NumberText BlocksCalloutsAudio ScriptImage File1 In this section, you will learn about the resources available to assist you in troubleshooting error messages. Select Next to continue. Note: If audio does not automatically start, select the play arrow in the top left to begin.In this section, you will learn about the resources available to assist you in troubleshooting error messages.2 Alt/M Select the Alt/M key combination to view onscreen troubleshooting steps to resolve the displayed error message. Select Next to continue. Tip:  The Reset key may be used as a troubleshooting step. It is used to clear an error message from the screen and will initialize modules and cause the instrument to resume processing.When an error message appearson the screen alerting you that there is a problem, press the Alt/M key combination on the keyboard to view troubleshooting steps.3 Error Log Screen From the Operating Menu, select: F7:  DIAGNOSTICS OR F5:  PROCESS CTRL F6:  ERROR LOG Highlight error message to be reviewed F5:  MORE INFO   Select Next to continue. Another way of viewing the error message is through the error log. The error log screen provides a list of the last 50 error messages that have occurred on the instrument. This screen also displays the date and time of each error and the method or segment position (if applicable) associated with the error.4 Operator's Guide The Troubleshooting section in the Operator's Guide provides general information about system troubleshooting and includes the following:  Troubleshooting Overview Help Keys Chemistry Troubleshooting System Check Troubleshooting Error Messages IMT Troubleshooting Online Support   Select Next to continue. The Operator's Guide provides general information about how to troubleshoot various instrument hardware and chemistry issues.5 Technical Solutions Center Check the instrument information card provided with your instrument for the current phone number, and the sticker that lists the serial number on the instrument. Call TSC when : You are unable to resolve the error using onscreen help You require assistance understanding procedures or information   Select Next to continue. Note: With your authorization and connection to Siemens through the instrument modem, information can be accessed by TSC to better understand the instrument issue.Specialists at the Siemens Technical Solutions Center provide expert advice in the event you are unable to resolve an instrument issue on your own. Service support is available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.6 Congratulations. You now are familiar with the troubleshooting resources for the Dimension® EXL™ with LM integrated chemistry system. When complete select the X in the upper-right corner to close the window and continue.Now that you are familiar with the troubleshooting resources that are available, let's look at how you would resolve errors generated from different modules on the instrument. In this section, we will look at error messages associated with different instrument components: IMT   Cuvette   Reagent   System Check   HM/LOCI® modules Tip:  Remember ALT/M and follow the steps on the Help screen. The Help screen provides additional information about the error.   Dimension ExL Components View the location of these components in the Dimension® EXL™ with LM system. Base ImageHotspotsText BlocksImage File Cuvette IMT HM/LOCI® module Reagent (R1 and R2) Resolving Module Errors Learn how to troubleshoot error messages associated with an instrument component. Slide NumberText BlocksCalloutsAudio ScriptImage File1 In this section, you will learn how to troubleshoot instrument component error messages.. Select Next to continue. Note: If audio does not automatically start, select the play arrow in the top left to begin.In this section, you will learn how to troubleshoot instrument component error messages.2 IMT Errors Check for sufficient consumables, roll bags if necessary Check the IMT (cartridge interface) tower and ensure it is closed completely Ensure sufficient fluid flow. From Main Operating screen: F4: SYSTEM PREP F3: IMT F3: ALIGN/PRIME Prime the appropriate fluid to check for flow   NOTE:  To verify fluid flow, disconnect fitting, observe tubing for flow while priming, reconnect fitting and prime again. Introducing air allows for visual observation of fluid flow.   Select Next to continue. Errors associated with the IMT often arise due to an interruption in fluid flow. To resolve these types of errors, check for sufficient consumables, check the IMT tower and ensure sufficient fluid flow.3  IMT Failed to AutoAlign Standard A fluid was not detected during the autoalignment of the IMT pump. Selecting Alt/M displays the following troubleshooting steps:  Check IMT Tower Check Standard A Prime Salt Bridge Check Tubings   Select Next to continue. Select each number to review the corresponding text.CalloutsSalt BridgeStandard AIMT TowerWhen you receive an "IMT Failed to Autoalign" error, follow these steps: Check the IMT tower for complete closure and check Standard A for sufficient volume. Also verify that all tubing is connected and that the fitting is in the downward position. Using the Align/Prime screen, prime Standard A to ensure flow. Prime the Salt Bridge solution to ensure flow tubing is connected and that the R1 tubing is seated in the pinch valve. Finally, check the tubings for any pinches, crimps or leaks.4 IMT Standard Fluid Detect Failure Air was detected in the IMT sensor when Standard A was expected. A typical cause of this error is insufficient fluid in a Standard A bag or air in the tubing. Selecting Alt/M will display the following troubleshooting steps:    Prime Standards Check IMT Tower Check Tubings   Select Next to continue. When an "IMT Standard Fluid Detect Failure" is received, first check for sufficient volumes of Standard A and/or Standard B, that the tubings are connected and that the fittings are in the downward position. Prime Standard A and/or Standard B using the Align/Prime screen to ensure flow. Check the IMT interface tower for complete closure, and check the tubings for any pinches, crimps, or leaks.5 Cuvette Errors Check Alt/M to determine the component you need to troubleshoot    Review minor error messages to determine what caused the error   Select Next to continue. Error messages associated with the cuvette module often are related to improper positioning of the cuvette arm after changing the cuvette diaphragm. Always check ALT/M to determine what area of the cuvette module you need to troubleshoot. You will receive a minor message that directs you to the cause of the error.6Bad Cuvette Minor-Cuvette Not Sealed   The control system did not detect electric current flow through the U-seal heater. Check the u-seal solenoid release bar to make sure it is completely latched Check that the U-seal element cable is properly plugged into the connector If necessary, lubricate the u-seal solenoid with Tufoil®  lubricant Replace the U-seal element Select Next to continue.   Select each number to review the corresponding text.CalloutsU-sealJ LatchSolenoidThis error message "Bad Cuvette" with the minor error of "Cuvette not Sealed" appears when the U-seal is not sealing the two pieces of cuvette film together. Located on the very end of the cuvette arm, the U-seal forms the U-shape of the cuvettes. To troubleshoot this type of error, check the u-seal solenoid release bar to make sure it is completely latched. Lubricate the u-seal solenoid with Tufiol® lubricant. If the error reappears, replace the u-seal.7 Bad Cuvette Minor-Air Pressure Too Low Air pressure used to form the last cuvette was too low Press Reset Check the condition and placement of the cuvette diaphragm, and replace as necessary Check that the cuvette formation arm is properly latched Check that all the air tubing connections are tight in the cuvette area and behind the gauge panel    Select Next to continue. Select each number to review the corresponding text.CalloutsAlignment barSolenoidDiaphragmAir Flow GaugeAir Pressure GaugeThe error message "Bad Cuvette" with a minor error of "Air Pressure Too Low" appears when there is a hole in the diaphragm. Begin by checking for a hole in the diaphragm and replace if necessary. Check the nozzle solenoid bracket position to make sure it is properly aligned behind the plunger.8 Reagent Errors Identify by module (R1 or R2) Identify by movement Alt/M will guide you through the necessary steps to resolve the error Select Next to continue.The error messages you may see associated with the reagent area are "_Cannot Find Home" and "_Lost Steps" errors. It is important to break down the error message so that you are looking at the correct reagent arm and movement in order to resolve the error.9Cannot Find Home ARM Movement – clockwise or counter clockwise, Rotation of R2 Arm Sensor – R2 Angular home sensor PROBE Movement – Up/Down Sensor – R1 or R2 Vertical Home Sensor CARRIAGE Movement – In/Out Sensor – R1 or R2 Radial Home Sensor  Select Next to continue. Slide QuestionAnswer Text How do I troubleshoot? To Troubleshoot: From the Operating Menu: Access Reagent Diagnostic Screen by pressing: F7: DIAGNOSTICS F1: ELECTRO/MECH F1: REAGENT F8: Advanced Diag Locate sensor Block light path Check sensor status on screen No change-replace sensor Change-suspect the fuse, motor, or motor control board CalloutsProbe Home SensorA "Cannot Find Home" error message indicates that either the home sensor needs to be cleaned or it needs to be replaced. The error message you receive will help you locate that particular home sensor. Clean using a lightly dampened Q-tip and wipe through the middle of the sensor. Check the status operation by viewing sensor status in the Reagent Diagnostic screen where you can view all the home sensors and their status. Block the light path of the sensor being tested by folding a paper taken from the instrument and placing it in the middle of the cleaned sensor you want to test. Next, check the status of the sensor change on the diagnostic screen. A change in status may indicate a bad fuse, or the sensor needs to be changed. If the failure persists, check the motor and motor control board.10 Lost Steps From the Operating Menu, access Reagent Diagnostics screen: F7: DIAGNOSTICS>F1: ELECTRO/MECH>F1: REAGENT>F8: ADVANCED DIAG>F7: Cycle Arm Follow prompts to watch module movement and check for interference If not moving smoothly, lubricate silver guide rod and brass splined shaft with Tufoil® lubricant If necessary, check probe alignments Select Next to continue.NOTE: Never lubricate the top silver splined shaft.TIP: The error may display “mth” meaning moving to home or “mfh”meaning moving from home. This will give an indication of the direction of travel.When the error message includes the wording "Lost Steps", it indicates there is an obstruction in the movement of that module or the module needs to be lubricated. Watch the movement of the module from the Reagent Diagnostic screen. While module is moving, visually check for mechanical interference, loose tubing, or foreign objects. The silver clips on top of the sides of the reagent lid may obstruct the movement of R2, if not latched properly If no obstructions are observed, lubricate the silver guide rod, and brass splined shaft with Tufiol®. Be careful not to lubricate the "top" silver splined shaft. If the error reoccurs, check the alignments of that module.11 System Check A System Check checks accuracy and precision and is a useful tool when troubleshooting chemistry and instrument issues. Rerun System Check Troubleshoot failed module(s) from top to bottom Refer to the System Check troubleshooting section of the Operator's Guide Select Next to continue.When the system check results do not meet specifications, rerun the system check. If the system check continues to fail, troubleshoot the failed module or modules. If more than one module fails always troubleshoot from the top to the bottom. By correcting the issue with the first failed module it may correct the issue with the second failed module.12 Failed on all means The mean is compared to the ABS or CHK carton value.   If unacceptable, this could indicate an accuracy issue. Check the carton value for the ABS or CHK lot on the Daily Maintenance Routines screen. Ensure it has been entered correctly. Select Next to continue. Check the carton value in the Daily Maintenance Routines Screen to ensure it has been entered and is correct.13 System Check with SD Failures The SD is an indication of precision.  For the involved module: Check probe alignments Replace probe tip Check pump panels for loose or crimped tubing Select Next to continue.When a System Check with SD failure occurs, follow these steps for the involved module: Check the probe alignments Perform maintenance And check the pump panels for loose or crimped tubing14 HM/LOCI® Errors Vessel Transfer Lost Steps LOCI® module Arm Lost Steps Select Next to continue.The error messages most commonly seen with the HM and the LOCI® modules are related to the Vessel Transfer and LOCI® module arms.15 Vessel Transfer Lost Steps The Vessel Transfer can lose steps moving to the incubate or wash wheel. Check the Vessel Transfer area for jammed vessels, clear if present Lubricate splined shaft and guide rod with Tufoil® lubricant Check vessel transfer alignments Remove vessel after performing alignments Select Next to continue.Select each number to review the corresponding text.CalloutsSplined ShaftGuide RodTransfer AreaWhen a Vessel Transfer Lost Steps error occurs, follow this procedure: Check the vessel transfer area and, if present, clear any jammed vessels. Lubricate the splined shaft and guide rod with Tufoil® lubricant. Finally, check the vessel transfer alignments. Be sure to remove the vessel after performing the alignments.16 LOCI® Arm Lost Steps This error occurs when the LOCI® arm did not move the proper distance. Follow the Operator's Guide, Troubleshooting Section “Replace LOCI® Insert” to insure proper replacement and reset the statistics. Select Next to continue. A "LOCI® Arm Lost Steps" error may be seen after replacing the LOCI® Arm Insert if you do not re-insert the rubber seal and press down firmly around the entire surface. Follow the instructions in the Operator's Guide, Troubleshooting section "Replace LOCI® Insert" to insure proper replacement.17 Congratulations. You have learned how to troubleshoot instrument component error messages. When complete select the X in the upper-right corner to close the window and continue.Congratulations. You now have learned how to troubleshoot error messages. Now that you have learned about the various error messages associated with different instrument components, practice resolving error messages in two interactive exercises.   Resolving Bad Cuvette Error Messages Practice resolving a bad cuvette error message. Instructions:If media does not automatically start, select the play arrow to begin.Flash File:/content/generator/Course_90002894/sim_EXLBadCuvette__9/sim_EXLBadCuvette__9.swfHTML5 File:/content/generator/Course_90002894/sim_EXLBadCuvette__9/index.htmlPDF File: Resolving IMT Error Messages Practice resolving an IMT error message. Instructions:If media does not automatically start, select the play arrow to begin.Flash File:/content/generator/Course_90002894/EXL TS_IMTError_110509__9/EXL TS_IMTError_110509__9.swfHTML5 File:/content/generator/Course_90002894/EXL TS_IMTError_110509__9/index.htmlPDF File: Congratulations. You have completed the Troubleshooting course for the Dimension® EXL™ with LM integrated chemistry system. Listed below are the key points that have been presented.  Take time to review the material before you proceed to the final quiz.  Access onscreen troubleshooting Help When an error message appears, you will be able to view onscreen Help by selecting the Alt/M key combination on the keyboard. The Help screen will display steps to assist you in resolving the specific error message. Perform each step sequentially until the problem is resolved. Locate and use the Error Log screen Use the Error Log screen to view the last 50 error messages that have occurred as well as the date and time that each error occurred, segment position, and the method (if any) associated with the error. To open the Error Log screen, from the Operating Menu screen, select F7: DIAGNOSTICS or F5: PROCESS CTRL, then press F6: ERROR LOG. On the Error Log screen, select the error message, then press F5: MORE INFO to view Help information for that error message. Use the Operator’s Guide as an additional resource Refer to your Operator’s Guide to view general troubleshooting information in categories that include Chemistry, System Check (Alt/M Help and Error Log screen), Error Messages, IMT System, and Resolving Error Messages. Identify and troubleshoot error messages associated with different modules:  IMT, Cuvette, Reagent, HM & LOCI®-modules Always follow the troubleshooting steps listed under the troubleshooting help screen. Contact the Technical Solutions Center (TSC) Contact the Technical Solutions Center (TSC) if you need additional help to operate or understand procedures or information, or if an error message still appears on a screen after you have performed all the steps available using onscreen Help.  The TSC Support is available 24 hours/day, 7 days a week. Select Next to continue.