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Section 6: Nozzle Maintenance and Performance
6.6 Performing the Slide Pattern Test
This test can differentiate poor staining results from sample preparation problems, or nozzle obstructions.
Perform the Slide Pattern Test when a Hub Pattern Test produces a normal result, but staining is still
inadequate.
1. Place a 1 x 3 inch (2.5 x 7.6 cm) piece of paper (REF: RP-500) in positions 1 and 2 of the carousel,
with a blocking slide in front of positions 1 and 2.
2. Load the carousel into the stainer and close the lid.
3. From the Main menu, press
Maintenance
.
4. Press
Pattern Test
.
5. Press the corresponding button for the reagent line to be tested.
6. Remove the paper slides.
7. Repeat Steps 1 through 6 for each reagent line.
8. Examine the paper slides for each reagent. The pattern on the slide should be uniform, without any
continuous lines or streaks (colors vary based on reagent).
Figure 14: Correct Slide Pattern Test Result
Figure 15: Incorrect Slide Pattern Test Result
9. If the result is incorrect, clear the nozzle blockage using the nozzle brush, or disassemble and clean
the nozzle (Section 6.1).
