Stat Fax 303 Plus, Operator'S Manual

Page: 43 / 52

Awareness Technology, Inc. Stat Fax 303 Plus Operator’s Manual Rev. J 39
3.4 Troubleshooting
Using the following guidelines, simple problems can often be isolated and corrected by the
operator. If your instrument continues to malfunction, you may need to speak with someone from
technical services for more information, or send your instrument to be repaired. Service and
repair work should be performed only by trained service personnel. Consult your dealer to make
arrangements if service is needed.
Problem: “Mechanism Error” message is displayed.
Solution: Turn the instrument off for about 5 seconds. When you turn it back on, the cup holder
may be driven out very slowly towards the front.
IF THE INSTRUMENT CONTINUES TO MALFUNCTION, CALL YOUR DEALER TO
ARRANGE FOR SERVICE.
Problem: “PRINTER JAM” is displayed.
Solution: This is usually caused by a small piece of paper lodged between the flying print head
and the side of the printer mechanism. Turn the instrument off. Reach into the printer mechanism
with a pair of tweezers, and carefully remove the paper. Take care not to damage the Teflon
pressure bar located behind the print head. If you are unable to clear the jam, call your dealer to
arrange for service.
You may continue to use the instrument, but results will not be printed on the internal printer.
After each well is read, the result will remain on the display to permit the user to note the result.
Press ENTER to advance the strip to the next well.
Problem: The lamp does not light.
Solution: Lamp replacement is an infrequent event, since the lamp is rated to read over 50,000
strips, and your lamp saver feature minimizes idle time. Lamp replacement is indicated if the
lamp does not light, or if the lamp output flag is printed. Call your dealer to arrange for lamp
replacement service.
Problem: The instrument is several years old and has lost some linearity with time.
Solution: You may need new filters. Return the instrument for replacements. To retard the
deterioration of filters, store in an air conditioned environment, and do not expose to severe
temperature shock. Call your dealer to arrange for service.
Problem: Incorrect answers are obtained.
Solution:
a. Check that the procedures and materials used were valid. Turbid or contaminated reagents,
for example, may affect absorbance readings. Be sure that you are reading in the specified
range of the instrument, and using an appropriate chromophore. Wells should not have bubbles,
condensation, severe scratches or smudges.
b. Review the procedure for blanking. Remember to use the same volume for the blank and the
samples.
c. Be certain that reagents are dispensed into the correct wells. Refer to the operating
instructions for each mode regarding correct placement of the blank and calibrator materials.