Hematek
®
3000 System – Instruction Manual – Version 1.3 18
8 Troubleshooting
When stained blood smears are not of the desired quality, the first tendency
is to assume the fluids or the slide stainer is at fault. However, other factors
could be the cause of the poor quality of stained blood smears. The
following list can help isolate the problem prior to checking the system:
• Was the blood thoroughly mixed before making the smear?
• Is the blood old or does it contain an incorrect anticoagulant?
• Is the blood smear too thick, too thin, or does it spread unevenly?
• Is the feathered edge of the smear end at least 1.5cm (5/8in) from the
end of the glass slide?
• Was the blood smear thoroughly dry before staining?
• Are the glass slides clean? Even new glass slides are not necessarily
clean.
• Are the glass slides flat? Variable thickness of a given glass slide can
cause uneven staining.
• Is the microscope clean and adequately illuminated? A dirty microscope
or inadequate lighting can give the impression of a poorly stained blood
smear.
8.1 Troubleshooting chart
This chapter lists possible problems relating to electrical and mechanical
operations that could occur during system operation together with probable
causes and corrective measures. If the measures recommended do not
solve the problem, contact the Siemens service.
Problem Probable cause Corrective measure
System does not start when the
power switch is pressed.
Main switch is not set to position I. Set the main switch to position I, see
Main switch on page 4-11.
Power cord is not plugged into the
socket at the rear of the system.
Plug the power cord into the socket
at the rear of the system.
Power cord is not plugged into a
power outlet.
Plug the power cord into a power
outlet with a ground contact.
Line fuses are blown. Replace the line fuses, see
Chapter 8.6.
Circuit breaker in electrical circuit of
building is tripped.
Reset the circuit breaker.
Electrical failure of the system Contact the Siemens service.
Yellow low stain light goes on. Hematek Stain Pak is empty. Install a new Hematek Stain Pak, see
Chapter 7.2.
Table 8-1 Troubleshooting
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