26
degrees.
The Tape is defective.
Use another Tape.
♦
The Tape is cut during sectioning.
Cause
Solution
The block face is not flat.
Align and trim the block to obtain a flat face.
The adhesive on the Tape overhangs the block
and snags on the knife.
Position the Tape on the block so that
no
adhesive is exposed to the knife when cutting
the section.
The knife and/or the block are not be properly
tightened.
Check the knife and block for looseness and
tighten all screws and clamps as needed.
♦
The captured section on the Tape is not intact.
Cause
Solution
The knife is dull.
If using a disposable blade, shift to a different
portion of the blade’s edge or replace the
blade. If using a stainless steel or tungsten-
carbide knife, sharpen the knife.
There is dirt on the Tape
Use a fresh, clean and cold Tape.
Bubbles form while laminating the Tape to the
block face.
Apply the Tape “like wallpaper” to the block
face while laminating with the cold Roller. If
bubbles are still visible, reapply the Tape.
There is vibration in the microtome (thick/thin,
chatter, etc.)
Check the knife and block for looseness and
tighten all screws and clamps as needed.
♦
The section on the Tape does not transfer properly to the Slide.
Cause
Solution
The mylar film on the Slide has not been
removed.
Remove the mylar film.
The adhesive layer on the Slide is not facing
up.
Position the Slide on the Blue Pad so the
adhesive layer faces up.
The Slide is too cold or too warm.
See the
Mech and ECU Troubleshooting
Guide
for the left LED on the ECU (labeled
Pad) always displaying either a solid red or
flashing red light.
