microSTAR®ii User Manual v1.3 3
1.2 Best Practices
To achieve the best results using the microSTAR®ii Medical Dosimetry System, comply with the best
practice operating principles listed below. The contents of this manual provide the instructions and
guidance to support these standards.
Implement the microSTARii QA program and monitor reader performance trends. Do not
perform readings if the Daily QA test has failed.
Allow the reader to warm up for 60 minutes after it has been powered on prior to use. This
will allow the system to stabilize for improved performance.
Do not open the reader drawer during nanoDot analysis.
Do not remove the drawer from the reader during normal operations.
Set the nanoDot flat in the tray with the barcode facing up and in the upper-left corner of the
dosimeter. If the nanoDot is incorrectly positioned in the reader drawer the reader may be
significantly damaged. (See Figure 3-2 for correct nanoDot positioning.)
Verify the correct sensitivity is displayed when scanning nanoDot serial numbers prior to
reading. (See section 2.1.3 for more information.)
When reading nanoDots, note the form of the dose calculation formula on the Reading tab and
ensure that the values used in the calculation are correct.
Prior to analyzing a nanoDot, verify that the correct calibration name(s) appears in the Current
Calibration fields on the Reading tab.
Always use the average of 3-4 readings to calculate an average estimate of dose for medical
dosimetry applications to improve accuracy.
To minimize outside interference, which can affect measurement precision, do not place
reader near high Electromagnetic Field (EMF) generating equipment, such as CT machines.
Complete a system calibration annually as part of routine system maintenance.
Clean the reader and the drawer regularly to get rid of any debris generated after 1,000
open/close cycles of regular use (See Chapter 11 more for information).
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