Page 1
Revision history
Rev.
Date
Edited by
Sections affected
Approved by
0.1.1
2008-OCT-07
Csaba Magyar
ALL – initial revision
1.0.17
2009-FEB-25
Csaba Magyar
1.0.17 – closing revision
Csaba Magyar
1.0.18
2009-MAR-28
Miklos Svarcz
1.0.18-finalised version
Svarcz Miklós
1.0.20
2009-APR-15
Csaba Magyar
Troubleshooting
1.0.21
2009-MAY-25
Csaba Magyar
1.1.1
2009-JUN-10
C.Magyar
SW revision - update
1.2.1
2009-JUN-11
C.Magyar
Reorder
1.2.2.
2009.JUN-12
C. Magyar
Accommodate changes and review reordering
1.2.3.
2009.JUN.15
C. Magyar
Edit 1.2.5
2009-JUN-30
C.Magyar
Limited features removed
1.2.6
2009-AUG-14
C.Magyar
Menu system review
1.2.7
2009-SEP-16
C.Magyar
List of accessories
1.2.8
2009-OCT-14
C.Magyar
SV cleaning (11.5.1), Result interpretation (sect 6), Reag.cons update,
Fluidic schematics (14.1-3); Measurement principles detailed;
1.2.9
2009-OCT-29
C.MAGYAR
Xb description; measurement methods
1.2.10
1.2.11
2009-12-12
C.Magyar
Autoloder prep.
1.2.12
2010-01-18 2010--02-17
Z.Borbás
Rewording, parameter clean-up, screen-shots, pictures, drawings, restructuring, Autosampler, reagent lock
1.2.13
2010-02-24.
Z.Borbás
Improved flagging description
1.2.14
2010-03-03
C.Magyar
Troubleshooting added
1.2.15
2010-04-12
C.Magyar
Update to SW 1.0.339
1.2.16
2010-04-15
C:Magyar
XB related functions removed
1.2.17
2010-06-04
C.Magyar
Screenshot updates, Measurement related troubleshooting temporarily
removed
1.2.18
2010-06-11
C.Magyar
SV cleaning revised
1.2.19
2010-06-29
C. Magyar
Reagent filtering method (specs) ultramicro filtered
1.2.20
2011-02-14
C.Magyar
X-B functions reinserted. Based on review by David Lopez;
based on 2nd review by GyA; Vienna sales office removed;
installation by service –> service manual; load qc values added
X-B explanations included along with screenshots; sw versions updated in
the top; “set date and time” removed from installation section; reagent
lock section rephrased; troubleshooting part rearranged; reagent
consumption updated; printout samples updated;
EMC Class A specific information added to section 1.1.3;
Reagent replacement procedure: steps to replace containers added:
section 15.1.11; meas related troubleshooting received hard cleaning; 1st
(approval page) added; garbage can icon added (section 1.1.3)
Á. Gyetvai
A. Galgóczi
1.2.21
2011-03-10
C.Magyar
New SV cleaning added to SV cleaning chapter
1.2.22
2011-04-29
A.Tremmel
Update screens; to match FDA release
1.2.23
2011-07-06
D. Lopez de
Quintana
Intensive review and update for US release.
1.2.24
2011-07-14
D. Lopez de
Quintana
Added section for Bar Code Symbologies, updated TAB file format,
changed recommendation for shear valve cleaning from 300 to 1200,
updated External Devices settings to add LIS TCP/IP “listener” port
information
1.2.25
2011.08.31
D. Lopez de
Quintana
Added Indications for Use statement
Qualified sample handling to include only venous blood
Updated performance characteristics
Removed references to refrigerated samples
Added table of background limits
1.2.26
2011.12.31
D. Lopez de
Quintana
Updated analytical measuring range
1.2.27
2012.02.11
D. Lopez de
Quintana
Updated Indications for Use and removed references to Research Use
Only (RUO) parameters
1.2.28
2012.03.07
M. Switzer
Correct Blank Limit and AMR errors
1.2.29
2012.11.22
T. Jozsi
General Update, reagent consumption update
OM-A5-01-1229
Page 2
APPROVALS
Role
Name
Date
Signature
Author
Tünde Józsi
R&D Director
Gábor Farkas
Quality Systems
Mike Switzer
Page 3
Operator’s Manual
Revision 1.2.29
Issued: November 22, 2012
Page 4
Page 5
This user manual is intended to give detailed information for end users of the Diatron ‘Abacus 5’ optical hematology
analyzer.
Descriptions contained herein are relevant to ‘Abacus 5’, software versions:
Firmware: 2.66 (1125)
PIC sw: 2.3
Laser sw: 3.6
TCU sw: 3.52
Warranty
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Exemptions
Diatron’s obligation or liability under this warranty does not include any transportation or other charges or liability
for direct, indirect or consequential damages or delay resulting from the improper use or application of the product
or the use of parts or accessories not approved by Diatron or repairs by people other than Diatron authorized
personnel.
This warranty shall not extend to:
Any Diatron product which has been subjected to misuse, negligence or accident.
Any Diatron product from which Diatron’s original serial number tag or product identification markings have
been altered or removed.
Any product of any other manufacturer.
Company Contact
Manufacturer DIATRON MI PLC
Address Táblás u. 39, H-10978 Budapest, HUNGARY
Tel: +36-1-436 9800
Fax: +36-1-436 9809
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Table of Contents
1 Indications for Use .......................................................................................................................... 12
2 For Your Safety ............................................................................................................................... 12
2.1 Who Should Use This Manual ............................................................................................................... 12
2.2 Special Symbols Used In This Manual .................................................................................................... 12
2.3 General Precautions ............................................................................................................................. 12
2.4 Environmental Factors .......................................................................................................................... 14
2.5 Electrical Requirements ........................................................................................................................ 14
2.6 Space Requirements ............................................................................................................................. 14
2.7 Weight Requirements........................................................................................................................... 16
2.8 Waste Disposal..................................................................................................................................... 17
2.9 Known Limitations ............................................................................................................................... 17
2.10 Emergency Situations ........................................................................................................................... 17
3 Product Support .............................................................................................................................. 18
4 Installation ..................................................................................................................................... 20
4.1 The ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Package Contents ............................................................................................ 20
4.2 The Autosampler Package Contenta...................................................................................................... 20
5 General Overview and Principles of Operation ................................................................................ 22
5.1 General Overview ................................................................................................................................ 22
5.1.1 Measured Parameters ................................................................................................................................................. 22
5.1.2 Approved Reagents and Control Materials ................................................................................................................. 23
5.1.3 Genuine Diatron Reagents ........................................................................................................................................... 24
5.2 Principles of Operation ......................................................................................................................... 26
5.2.1 Volumetric Impedance Method .................................................................................................................................. 26
5.2.2 Photometric Light Absorbance Method ...................................................................................................................... 26
5.2.3 Optical Light Scatter and Diffraction Method .............................................................................................................. 27
5.3 Inside the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer .............................................................................................................. 29
5.3.1 Front Panel .................................................................................................................................................................. 29
5.3.2 Back Panel .................................................................................................................................................................... 30
5.3.3 Left Side Assembly ....................................................................................................................................................... 32
5.3.4 Right Side Assembly ..................................................................................................................................................... 33
5.3.5 Front Assembly ............................................................................................................................................................ 34
6 User Interface ................................................................................................................................. 36
6.1 Using the Touch Screen ........................................................................................................................ 36
6.2 Using the ‘Start’ Button ........................................................................................................................ 36
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6.3 Using an External Mouse ...................................................................................................................... 36
6.4 Using an External Keyboard .................................................................................................................. 36
6.5 Using the On-Screen Virtual Keypads .................................................................................................... 37
6.6 Using the Graphical User Interface ........................................................................................................ 38
6.6.1 Quick Links .................................................................................................................................................................. 39
6.6.2 The Interactive Display Area ....................................................................................................................................... 39
6.6.3 The Status Display ....................................................................................................................................................... 39
6.6.4 Entering Information ................................................................................................................................................... 40
6.7 The Menu System ................................................................................................................................. 40
6.7.1 Primary Menu Items ................................................................................................................................................... 40
6.7.2 Starting a Manual Single Tube Measurement............................................................................................................. 40
6.7.3 Start Automated Measurements ................................................................................................................................ 41
6.7.4 Access the Database ................................................................................................................................................... 41
6.7.5 Initiate Printing ........................................................................................................................................................... 41
6.7.6 Main Menu .................................................................................................................................................................. 41
6.7.7 Autosampler Control Panel ......................................................................................................................................... 42
6.7.8 Adjust the Time and Date ........................................................................................................................................... 42
6.7.9 Open the Warning Panel ............................................................................................................................................. 42
6.7.10 Menu Tree ................................................................................................................................................................... 42
6.7.11 Safety Access Codes .................................................................................................................................................... 45
7 Start Up and Shut Down the ‘Abacus 5’ ........................................................................................... 46
7.1 Start Up and Shut Down Overview ........................................................................................................ 46
7.2 Starting Up the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer ...................................................................................................... 46
7.2.1 Visual Inspection ......................................................................................................................................................... 46
7.2.2 Power Up the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer .............................................................................................................................. 46
7.2.3 Start Up the User Interface ......................................................................................................................................... 47
7.2.4 User Logon .................................................................................................................................................................. 48
7.2.5 Pneumatic System Start and Blank Measurement ..................................................................................................... 48
7.3 Exiting the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer ............................................................................................................. 49
7.3.1 Log Off ......................................................................................................................................................................... 49
7.3.2 Shut Down ................................................................................................................................................................... 50
7.3.3 Prepare for Shipment .................................................................................................................................................. 50
7.3.4 Emergency Shut Down ................................................................................................................................................ 52
7.3.5 Repackaging the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer .......................................................................................................................... 53
8 Sample Measurement .................................................................................................................... 54
8.1 Sample Types Supported by the ‘Abacus 5’ ........................................................................................... 54
8.1.1 Supported Sample Tubes Types .................................................................................................................................. 54
8.1.2 Sampling Depth ........................................................................................................................................................... 54
8.1.3 Open or Closed Sample Tubes .................................................................................................................................... 55
8.1.4 Sample Collection and Handling ................................................................................................................................. 55
8.2 Sample Types and Modes ..................................................................................................................... 56
8.3 Sample Identification............................................................................................................................ 56
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8.4 Running Samples .................................................................................................................................. 57
8.4.1 Manual Mode .............................................................................................................................................................. 57
8.4.2 Automatic Mode .......................................................................................................................................................... 59
8.5 Result Display ...................................................................................................................................... 69
8.6 Printing Reports ................................................................................................................................... 70
8.7 The Measurement Process.................................................................................................................... 70
9 Result Interpretation....................................................................................................................... 72
9.1 The Result Screen ................................................................................................................................. 72
9.2 Sample Identification Information ........................................................................................................ 72
9.3 Parameter Information ......................................................................................................................... 73
9.3.1 Scatter Diagrams and Histograms ............................................................................................................................... 74
9.3.2 Warnings ...................................................................................................................................................................... 76
10 Database Functions ..................................................................................................................... 82
10.1 Database Overview .............................................................................................................................. 82
10.2 Scrolling the Database View ................................................................................................................. 83
10.3 Sorting Database Information ............................................................................................................... 83
10.4 Manual Selection of Database Records ................................................................................................. 84
10.5 Automatic Selection of Database Records ............................................................................................. 84
10.6 Viewing Detailed Results ...................................................................................................................... 84
10.7 Statistics .............................................................................................................................................. 85
10.8 Managing Database Records ................................................................................................................. 85
10.8.1 Select By ...................................................................................................................................................................... 85
10.8.2 Importing ..................................................................................................................................................................... 86
10.8.3 Export .......................................................................................................................................................................... 87
10.8.4 Send to LIS ................................................................................................................................................................... 87
10.8.5 Save Tab File ................................................................................................................................................................ 87
10.8.6 Save Raw Data ............................................................................................................................................................. 88
10.8.7 Delete .......................................................................................................................................................................... 88
11 Calibration .................................................................................................................................. 90
11.1 Calibrating the ‘Abacus 5’ ..................................................................................................................... 90
11.1.1 View Calibrations ......................................................................................................................................................... 92
12 Quality Control ............................................................................................................................ 94
12.1 Set QC Reference ................................................................................................................................. 94
12.2 QC Measure ......................................................................................................................................... 96
12.3 View QC References ............................................................................................................................. 96
12.4 View QC Data ....................................................................................................................................... 96
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12.5 View QC Diagrams ................................................................................................................................ 96
12.6 View X-B Data ...................................................................................................................................... 96
12.7 View X-B Diagrams ............................................................................................................................... 97
13 Patients ...................................................................................................................................... 98
14 Multi-User Mode ........................................................................................................................100
14.1 Types of Users .................................................................................................................................... 100
14.2 Creating a New User ........................................................................................................................... 100
14.3 Deleting or Changing Users ................................................................................................................. 102
15 Settings .....................................................................................................................................104
15.1 Customize Settings ............................................................................................................................. 104
15.2 Laboratory Settings ............................................................................................................................ 105
15.3 External Devices ................................................................................................................................. 105
15.4 System Settings .................................................................................................................................. 106
15.5 Units .................................................................................................................................................. 108
15.6 Printer Settings .................................................................................................................................. 108
15.7 Profile Limits Settings ......................................................................................................................... 109
15.8 X-B Settings ........................................................................................................................................ 110
15.9 User Settings ...................................................................................................................................... 111
15.10 Date and Time Adjustment ............................................................................................................. 111
16 Instrument Diagnostics ..............................................................................................................114
16.1 Analyzer Self Test ............................................................................................................................... 114
16.2 Log ..................................................................................................................................................... 116
16.3 Reagent Status ................................................................................................................................... 117
16.4 Statistics ............................................................................................................................................ 118
16.5 Information ........................................................................................................................................ 118
17 Maintenance .............................................................................................................................120
17.1 Opening the Front Panel ..................................................................................................................... 120
17.2 Closing the Front Panel ....................................................................................................................... 120
17.3 Removing the Side Panels ................................................................................................................... 121
17.4 User Maintainable Parts of the Analyzer ............................................................................................. 121
17.5 Software Maintenance Functions ........................................................................................................ 122
17.6 Cleaning the Shear Valve .................................................................................................................... 123
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17.7 Cleaning the Washing Head ................................................................................................................ 126
17.8 Software Cleaning Maintenance Functions .......................................................................................... 127
17.8.1 Daily Cleaning ............................................................................................................................................................ 128
17.8.2 Cleaning the Measurement System ........................................................................................................................... 128
17.8.3 Extended Cleaning (Hard Cleaning) ........................................................................................................................... 128
17.9 Replacing Reagents ............................................................................................................................ 129
18 Reagent Locking ........................................................................................................................ 132
19 The Daily Routine ...................................................................................................................... 133
20 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................ 136
20.1 Software error messages .................................................................................................................... 136
20.2 Pneumatic error messages .................................................................................................................. 136
20.3 Mechanical Problems ......................................................................................................................... 137
20.3.1 Sample Rotor (SR) Failures ........................................................................................................................................ 137
20.3.2 Needle Mechanics, Vertical Motor (Mvert) Problems ............................................................................................... 137
20.3.3 Shear Valve (SV) Related Errors ................................................................................................................................. 138
20.3.4 Dilutor Errors ............................................................................................................................................................. 138
20.3.5 Priming Problems....................................................................................................................................................... 139
20.3.6 Electronics Related Problems .................................................................................................................................... 139
20.3.7 The Analyzer Does Not Power On.............................................................................................................................. 139
20.3.8 I2C Errors Displayed At Startup .................................................................................................................................. 139
20.4 Measurement results related problems .............................................................................................. 139
20.4.1 Fluctuating PLT background values ........................................................................................................................... 139
20.4.2 Long, smeared population ......................................................................................................................................... 140
21 Accessories ................................................................................................................................ 142
22 Appendix ................................................................................................................................... 142
22.1 Reagent Consumption ........................................................................................................................ 142
22.2 Display Ranges ................................................................................................................................... 143
22.3 Fluidic System .................................................................................................................................... 144
22.4 Printed Report Formats ...................................................................................................................... 145
22.5 Parameter Calculation ........................................................................................................................ 147
22.6 Specifications ..................................................................................................................................... 149
22.7 Performance Characteristics ............................................................................................................... 151
22.7.1 Precision .................................................................................................................................................................... 151
22.7.2 Accuracy..................................................................................................................................................................... 151
22.7.3 Linearity ..................................................................................................................................................................... 151
22.7.4 Carryover ................................................................................................................................................................... 152
22.7.5 Sample Stability ......................................................................................................................................................... 152
22.7.6 Mode to Mode ........................................................................................................................................................... 152
22.7.7 Reference Ranges ...................................................................................................................................................... 152
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22.7.8 Background Limits ..................................................................................................................................................... 153
22.7.9 Analytical Measurement Range ................................................................................................................................ 153
22.7.10 Interfering Substances .............................................................................................................................................. 154
22.8 Reagent System .................................................................................................................................. 155
22.8.1 Diluent ....................................................................................................................................................................... 155
22.8.2 Lyse Reagent 1 .......................................................................................................................................................... 155
22.8.3 Lyse Reagent 2 .......................................................................................................................................................... 155
22.8.4 Cleaner ...................................................................................................................................................................... 155
22.9 Tab File Format .................................................................................................................................. 156
23 Index .........................................................................................................................................157
Table of Figures
Figure 1. Abacus 5 with Autosampler Space Requirements ............................................................................................ 15
Figure 2. Abacus 5 Without Autosampler Space Requirements ...................................................................................... 16
Figure 3. Volumetric Impedance Method ........................................................................................................................ 26
Figure 4. Photometric Light Absorbance Method ........................................................................................................... 27
Figure 5. ‘Abacus 5’ Optical Head Block DIagram ............................................................................................................ 27
Figure 6. Optical Signal Processing System ...................................................................................................................... 28
Figure 7. Cellular Light Scatter ......................................................................................................................................... 28
Figure 8. 4DIFF Scatter Diagram ...................................................................................................................................... 29
Figure 9. Abacus 5 Front Panel ........................................................................................................................................ 29
Figure 10. Abacus 5 Back Panel ....................................................................................................................................... 30
Figure 11. Main Board Back Panel I/O Ports .................................................................................................................... 31
Figure 12. Left Side Assembly .......................................................................................................................................... 32
Figure 13. Left Side Assembly .......................................................................................................................................... 33
Figure 14. Front Assembly Behind the Front Panel ......................................................................................................... 34
Figure 15. Alphanumeric Virtual On-Screen Keypad ....................................................................................................... 37
Figure 16. ‘Sticky’ Shift and Symbol Buttons ................................................................................................................... 37
Figure 17. Numeric Virtual On-screen Keypad ................................................................................................................ 38
Figure 18. Date Virtual On-Screen Keypad ...................................................................................................................... 38
Figure 19. Graphical User Interface Sections ................................................................................................................... 39
Figure 20. The Status Display ........................................................................................................................................... 40
Figure 21. ‘Abacus 5’ Main Menu .................................................................................................................................... 42
Figure 22. ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Startup and Log On Screens ........................................................................................... 47
Figure 23. Abacus 5 Shutdown Options ........................................................................................................................... 49
Figure 24. Log Off ............................................................................................................................................................. 49
Figure 25. Shut Down ....................................................................................................................................................... 50
Figure 26. Prepare for Shipment ..................................................................................................................................... 50
Figure 27. Connect Distilled Water Panel ........................................................................................................................ 51
Figure 28. Remove Reagent Tubing Panel ....................................................................................................................... 52
Figure 29. Shut Down Ready Panel .................................................................................................................................. 52
Figure 30. Sampling Needle ............................................................................................................................................. 55
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Figure 31. Sample Measurement Panel ........................................................................................................................... 58
Figure 32. Sample Processing Result Screen .................................................................................................................... 59
Figure 33. Autosampler Info and AS Panel ...................................................................................................................... 60
Figure 34. Full Scan Automatic Processing Mode ............................................................................................................ 62
Figure 35. Full Scan Mode Tray View Progress ................................................................................................................ 63
Figure 36. Full Scan Mode Tray and List Views ................................................................................................................ 64
Figure 37. Free List Mode Selection ................................................................................................................................. 65
Figure 38 Figure 39. Preparing a Free List ........................................................................................................................ 66
Figure 40. Free List Mode Progress: List View ................................................................................................................. 66
Figure 41. Free List Mode Progress: Tray View ................................................................................................................ 67
Figure 42. Selected Sample Mode Panel .......................................................................................................................... 68
Figure 43. Control The Autosampler With Info Panel ...................................................................................................... 69
Figure 44. Results Display and Magnified Scatter Plot .................................................................................................... 70
Figure 45. ‘Abacus 5’ Measurement Process ................................................................................................................... 71
Figure 46. ‘Abacus 5’ Result Screen ................................................................................................................................. 72
Figure 47. Parameter Information Display ...................................................................................................................... 73
Figure 48. Graphical Normal Range Display ..................................................................................................................... 74
Figure 49. Result Screen Scatter Diagrams ...................................................................................................................... 75
Figure 50. Result Screen Histograms ............................................................................................................................... 75
Figure 51. Warnings Section of Results Screen ................................................................................................................ 76
Figure 52. Accessing the Database................................................................................................................................... 82
Figure 53. Scrolling and Selecting .................................................................................................................................... 83
Figure 54. Multiselect and Multiple Selection ................................................................................................................. 84
Figure 55. Manage Records Panel .................................................................................................................................... 85
Figure 56. Select By Panel ................................................................................................................................................ 85
Figure 57. Database Importing Panel ............................................................................................................................... 86
Figure 58. Directory Panel for Data Storage .................................................................................................................... 87
Figure 59. Calibration Options ......................................................................................................................................... 90
Figure 60. Calibration Panel and Calibration Run Result Panel ....................................................................................... 91
Figure 61. Calibration Factor Panel .................................................................................................................................. 92
Figure 62. View Calibration Panel .................................................................................................................................... 93
Figure 63. QC Panel .......................................................................................................................................................... 94
Figure 64. Set QC Reference Panel .................................................................................................................................. 95
Figure 65. Load QC Reference Panel ................................................................................................................................ 95
Figure 66. View QC Diagrams Panel ................................................................................................................................. 96
Figure 67. Patients Panel ................................................................................................................................................. 98
Figure 68. Edit Patient Panel ............................................................................................................................................ 99
Figure 69. Logon Panel ................................................................................................................................................... 101
Figure 70. Add User Panel .............................................................................................................................................. 101
Figure 71. Add User Complete Panel ............................................................................................................................. 101
Figure 72. Settings Panel (Administrator User).............................................................................................................. 102
Figure 73. Settings Panel (Administrator User).............................................................................................................. 103
Figure 74. Confirm User Delete Panel ............................................................................................................................ 103
Figure 75. Settings Panel ................................................................................................................................................ 104
Figure 76. Customize Settings Panel .............................................................................................................................. 105
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Figure 77. External Devices Settings Panel .................................................................................................................... 106
Figure 78. System Settings Panel ................................................................................................................................... 107
Figure 79. Units Settings Panel ...................................................................................................................................... 108
Figure 80. Printer Settings Panel ................................................................................................................................... 109
Figure 81. Profile Limits Settings Panel .......................................................................................................................... 110
Figure 82. X-B Settings Panel ......................................................................................................................................... 111
Figure 83. User Settings Panel ....................................................................................................................................... 111
Figure 84. Time/Date Settings ....................................................................................................................................... 112
Figure 85. Diagnostics Panel .......................................................................................................................................... 114
Figure 86. Self Test Panel ............................................................................................................................................... 115
Figure 87. Log Panel ....................................................................................................................................................... 116
Figure 88. Reagent Status Panel .................................................................................................................................... 117
Figure 89. Statistics Panel .............................................................................................................................................. 118
Figure 90. Information Panel ......................................................................................................................................... 119
Figure 91. Opening the Front Panel ............................................................................................................................... 120
Figure 92. Closing the Front Panel ................................................................................................................................. 121
Figure 93. Software Maintenance Functions ................................................................................................................. 122
Figure 94. Shearvalve Cleaning Maintenance Function................................................................................................. 124
Figure 95. Shearvalve Cleaning Maintenance Function Prompt ................................................................................... 124
Figure 96. Removing the Shear Valve Axis Thumbscrew ............................................................................................... 125
Figure 97. Disassembling the shear valve ...................................................................................................................... 125
Figure 98. Cleaning the Shear Valve .............................................................................................................................. 126
Figure 99. Reassembling the Shear Valve ...................................................................................................................... 126
Figure 100. Removing the Washing Head ...................................................................................................................... 127
Figure 101. Cleaning the Washing Head ........................................................................................................................ 127
Figure 102. Reagent Low Indicator and Explanation Panel ........................................................................................... 129
Figure 103. Reagent Replacement Panel ....................................................................................................................... 130
Figure 104. Location of Reagent Key in Diatro•Lyse-5P Reagent Container ................................................................. 132
Figure 105. Reagent Key Connector .............................................................................................................................. 132
Figure 106. Pneumatical Error Message Example ......................................................................................................... 136
Figure 107. Detailed Error Message .............................................................................................................................. 137
Figure 108. Proper Seating of Shear Valve Thumbscrew............................................................................................... 138
Figure 109. Smeared Population ................................................................................................................................... 140
Figure 110. Fluidic System Diagram ............................................................................................................................... 144
Figure 111. Detailed Printout Format ............................................................................................................................ 145
Figure 112. Listed Printout Format ................................................................................................................................ 146
Table of Tables
Table 1. ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Parameters......................................................................................................................... 23
Table 2. Diatro•Dil-5P Diluent Information ..................................................................................................................... 24
Table 3. Diatro•Lyse-5P Information ............................................................................................................................... 24
Table 4. Diatro•Diff-5P Information ................................................................................................................................ 25
Table 5. Diatro•Hypocleaner CC Information .................................................................................................................. 25
Table 6. Reagent Connector Color Codes ........................................................................................................................ 31
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Table 7. ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Menu Tree .......................................................................................................................... 45
Table 8. Supported Autosampler Bar Code Reader Symbologies .................................................................................... 61
Table 9. Sample Identification Information ..................................................................................................................... 73
Table 10. Normal Range Flags .......................................................................................................................................... 74
Table 11. Linearity Range Flag ......................................................................................................................................... 74
Table 12. High Blank Flag ................................................................................................................................................. 74
Table 13. Warning Flags ................................................................................................................................................... 80
Table 14. Interpretive Flags ............................................................................................................................................. 81
Table 15. Morphological Flags ......................................................................................................................................... 81
Table 16. Database Sort Criteria ...................................................................................................................................... 83
Table 17. Restrictions by User Type ............................................................................................................................... 100
Table 18. Count Unit Parameters ................................................................................................................................... 108
Table 19. Self Test Item Limits ....................................................................................................................................... 116
Table 20. Log Filters ....................................................................................................................................................... 117
Table 21. Software Maintenance Procedures ................................................................................................................ 123
Table 22. Reagent Consumption .................................................................................................................................... 142
Table 23. Display Ranges ................................................................................................................................................ 143
Table 24. Parameter Calculation .................................................................................................................................... 148
Table 25. Specifications .................................................................................................................................................. 150
Table 26. Precision Performance ................................................................................................................................... 151
Table 27. Accuracy Performance ................................................................................................................................... 151
Table 28. Linearity Performance .................................................................................................................................... 151
Table 29. Carryover Performance .................................................................................................................................. 152
Table 30. Closed vs. Open Vial Mode Performance ....................................................................................................... 152
Table 31. Closed vs. Autosampler Mode Performance .................................................................................................. 152
Table 32. Reference Ranges ........................................................................................................................................... 153
Table 33. Background Limits .......................................................................................................................................... 153
Table 34. Analytical Measuring Range ........................................................................................................................... 154
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1 Indications for Use
Label
Meaning
Explanation
Biohazard
Blood samples and analyzer waste are potentially infectious
materials.
Corrosive
Reagents may cause corrosion or skin irritation.
Warning
General warning of possible hazard conditions.
Sharp needle warning
The sampling needle may be a hazard to the operator.
The sampling needle and other components inside the analyzer may cause injury, or can
get damaged if handled incorrectly. Only certified personnel should open the covers.
Running measurements with opened cover is not recommended due to the risk of possible
injury. Always wear safety gloves while performing maintenance actions.
The analyzer weighs 35kg (~77lbs).Please do not attempt to move it alone. The analyzer
should always be moved by two persons holding the analyzer by its sides in an upright
position.
Always use safe lifting procedures when lifting the analyzer.
Make sure to retain the original packaging material for safe transportation and storage in
the future.
The Diatron Abacus 5 System is a quantitative multi-parameter automated hematology analyzer designed for in-vitrodiagnostic use in clinical laboratories for enumeration of the following parameters in K3EDTA anti-coagulated venous
whole blood samples: WBC, LYM%, LYM#, MON%, MON#, NEU%, NEU#, EOS%, EOS#, BAS%, BAS#, RBC, HGB, HCT,
MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDWcv, RDWsd, PCT, PDWcv, PDWsd, PLT and MPV. The Diatron Abacus 5 is indicated for use to
identify patients with hematologic parameters within and outside of established reference ranges.
2 For Your Safety
2.1 Who Should Use This Manual
This user manual is intended for clinical laboratory professionals using the Diatron ‘Abacus 5’ automated hematology
analyzer. The manual includes information about the operation and user interface of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
It also contains basic steps necessary to perform the setup procedures to customize the operation of the analyzer to
the requirements of your laboratory.
This manual also describes daily routine maintenance requirements to keep your analyzer functioning properly.
2.2 Special Symbols Used In This Manual
2.3 General Precautions
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To prepare the analyzer for shipping, storage or extended periods of inactivity, please drain
the reagents and repackage the ‘Abacus 5’ in its original packaging. Do not expose the
‘Abacus 5’ to direct sunlight, extreme temperature or humidity (>80%).
The analyzer operates with chemically and biologically active reagents. Physical contact
with these reagents should be avoided. Please read reagent descriptions carefully for
possible emergency actions.
To ensure reliable operation and reliable results:
Only human blood samples should be analyzed
Only genuine Diatron reagents should be used
Required maintenance (user and service level) should be performed as
recommended in this manual
Only Diatron certified service personnel should perform service actions
Only genuine Diatron service materials and spare parts should be used
Genuine reagents and service materials and spare parts are available from Diatron.
Only Diatron certified service personnel that have successfully completed the ‘Diatron
Abacus 5 Service Training’ program are qualified to service the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
Before operating the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, all operators should complete a ‘Diatron Abacus
5 Operator Training’ program. This program is offered by Diatron or by Diatron certified
service personnel.
Replacement materials or spare parts (tubes, valves, etc.) which might have been in
contact with human blood or reagents should be handled as a potentially biologically
hazardous and chemically dangerous material. All applicable laws and regulations must be
observed in the handling and disposal of these materials.
The ‘Abacus 5’ is designed for laboratory operation. Mobile operation is not supported.
Operate ‘Abacus 5’ within the ambient temperature range described in section 2.4.
The IVD equipment complies with the emission and immunity requirements described in
relevant part of the IEC 61326 series.
This equipment has been designed and tested to CISPR 11 Class A. In a domestic
environment it may cause radio interference, in which case, you may need to take
measures to mitigate the interference.
Electromagnetic environment should be evaluated prior to operation of the device.
This analyzer contains electronic components. Please handle electronic waste
adhering to local or federal regulations.
CAUTION – Use of controls or adjustments or perfomance of procedures other than those
specified herein may result hazardous radiation exposure.
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2.4 Environmental Factors
Failure to properly ground the ‘Abacus 5’ bypasses important safety features and may
result in electrical hazard.
Operate the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer within the ambient temperature range of 15-30°C (59-86 °F) and a relative humidity
range of 10% - 80%. The optimum operating temperature is 25°C (~77°F).
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer should be stored within the temperature range of 5-35°C (41-95 °F). Avoid exposing the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to direct sunlight or to extreme high or low temperatures. If the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer was
subjected to extreme temperatures during shipment or storage, the analyzer must be placed for at least one hour in
a room whose temperature is within the operational range before installation or use.
Reagents should be stored at a temperature range of 15-30°C (59-86 °F). Reagents may experience a temperature
range of at most 5-35°C (41-95 °F) for a maximum of 3 days.
The analyzer should be placed in a well-ventilated location.
Operation at an altitude above 3000 meters (9800 ft) is not recommended.
2.5 Electrical Requirements
The analyzer should only be operated from a wall outlet meeting these power input requirements:
100-127VAC/200-240VAC; 47Hz to 63Hz
Power Consumption: maximum 400 VA
Please ensure that the wall outlet is also capable of supplying the power consumption of any additional devices (such
as a printer).
Use only the power cord supplied with the instrument. Avoid using extension cords. The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer comes
with a power cord appropriate for your power system. Proper use of the appropriate power cord assures adequate
grounding of the system. If the power is not reliable, contact your representative for options such as the installation
of an external UPS module.
The instrument should not be placed near potentially interfering devices capable of emitting radio frequencies (e.g.
radio or television transmitters/receivers, radars, centrifuges, X-ray devices, fans, etc.).
This analyzer is designed to be safe for transient voltages to INSTALLATION CATEGORY II and POLLUTION DEGREE 2.
2.6 Space Requirements
It is important to install the instrument in a suitable location. A poor location can adversely affect its performance.
Select a well-ventilated location near a power source and close to a suitable drain.
Place the unit on a clean, level surface. Leave at least 0.5 m (18 inches) space on both sides and above the instrument
to access pneumatics. A minimum of 0.2 m (8 inches) must be maintained between the rear panel and the wall to
allow for heat dissipation and tubing clearance.
Ensure there is enough clearance in front of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to open the front panel. Allow enough space if
you want to use optional external keyboard, mouse or bar code reader.
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Your selected location should allow placement of the reagents in an unobtrusive location below the laboratory bench
Placing reagents above the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer could result in reagent overflow and
spilling.
that the instrument is placed on, or on the same surface. Placement below the laboratory bench also allows for
storage of a spare set of reagents. Never place the reagents above the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
See Figure 1 and Figure 2 for more information about proper analyzer location and clearance.
Figure 1. Abacus 5 with Autosampler Space Requirements
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Figure 2. Abacus 5 Without Autosampler Space Requirements
2.7 Weight Requirements
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer weighs 35 Kg (77 lb) without the Autosampler. The ‘Abacus 5’ with optional Autosampler
weighs 47Kg (104 lb). Adding an external keyboard, documents etc. can bring the total weight up to 60 Kg (132 lb). If
you decide to store the reagents on the same surface, then the combined weight can reach 100 Kg (220 lb).
Please select a table, laboratory shelf, or other location which can support the weight of the ‘Abacus 5’ with
accessories and is free from vibration.
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To allow reliable operation and to provide a safe working environment, make sure that the
table supporting the unit is stable enough to carry the weight of the instrument and
accessories.
2.8 Waste Disposal
System waste should be handled as a potentially biohazardous material. All applicable
laws, regulations, and laboratory practices should be followed in the handling and disposal
of waste.
In case of fire, do not use water to extinguish the fire unless the ‘Abacus 5’ is disconnected
from the electrical network!
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer waste contains human blood and reagents that are chemically and biologically active, and should
be considered to be a potential infection and biohazard threat. Safe laboratory practices must be followed including
the use of personal protective when operating the ‘Abacus 5’ and handling blood, reagents, and waste.
2.9 Known Limitations
The ‘Abacus 5’ is not intended for analysis of animal blood samples. Anti-coagulated and homogenized (well-mixed)
human blood samples must be free from contamination.
Blood samples must be analyzed within 7 hours of venipuncture.
2.10 Emergency Situations
Always follow all applicable laws and regulations with regard to emergency situations.
If the ‘Abacus 5’ needs to be powered off due to an emergency situation (like fire, thunderstorm etc.), follow the
procedures in chapter 7.3.4.
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3 Product Support
Your sales representative is trained and qualified to answer questions about applications and the operation of the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. If you have additional questions regarding the ‘Abacus 5’, please ask for manufacturer support
through your sales representative.
Diatron makes every effort to provide excellent support and up to date information and services regarding the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Software updates and application documents are available on the Diatron web site at
http://www.diatron.com.
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4 Installation
Your Diatron certified service engineer will perform the initial installation of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer and train
selected laboratory personnel on the proper use and maintenance of the analyzer. The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer should
only be operated by properly trained laboratory personnel.
4.1 The ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Package Contents
After opening the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer packaging, you will find an accessory box. The analyzer is in a plastic bag in
between cushioning protective material. After opening the bag, remove the desiccant packs. The package should
contain the following items:
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Accessories box on top of the analyzer, including:
o Power cord
o User Manual (this document)
o Sample tube adapter for the individual sample unit (1 pc)
o Reagent tube kit in a plastic bag, with 3 caps and 5 color-coded tubing
o Plastic waste container
o Cardboard box for the waste container
o “Preparing for shipment” tube kit (1 piece)
o ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer final check report
Please inform your Diatron Representative if any item is missing or damaged. Retain the original ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
packaging for future transportation and storage.
4.2 The Autosampler Package Content
The Autosampler is an optional unit that attaches to the Abacus 5. If the optional Autosampler unit was ordered,
package should contain the following items:
Autosampler unit
A sample tray
10 pieces sample racks
Autosampler final check report
Please inform your sales representative if any item is missing or damaged. Retain the original Autosampler packaging
for future transportation and storage.
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5 General Overview and Principles of Operation
Parameter
Symbol
Measurement method
White Blood Cell count
WBC
Impedance measurement
Neutrophil absolute count
NEU
Calculated
Lymphocyte absolute count
LYM
Calculated
Monocyte absolute count
MON
Calculated
Eosinophil absolute count
EOS
Calculated
Basophil absolute count
BAS
Calculated
Neutrophil percentage
NEU%
Optical measurement
Lymphocyte percentage
LYM%
Optical measurement
Monocyte percentage
MON%
Optical measurement
Eosinophil percentage
EOS%
Optical measurement
Basophil percentage
BAS%
Optical measurement
Red Blood Cell count
RBC
Impedance measurement
Hemoglobin
HGB
Photometric measurement
Hematocrit
HCT
Calculated
Mean Corpuscular Volume
MCV
Derived
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
MCH
Calculated
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration
MCHC
Calculated
Red Blood cells Distribution Width
RDWsd
Calculated
5.1 General Overview
The ‘Abacus 5’ is a fully automated high quality hematology analyzer for in vitro diagnostic use in clinical laboratories.
It provides precise and accurate 5-part differential measurement using a laser based optical measurement
technology.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer uses the impedance method for measurement of leukocytes (WBC), erythrocytes (RBC) and
platelet (PLT) concentrations. Measurement of the hemoglobin (HGB) content of red blood cells is accomplished by
photometric measurement technology. Five part leukocyte differential (LYM%, MON%, NEU%, EOS%, BAS%) is
accomplished using optical laser-based flow cytometric technology.
A vivid color touch screen display is featured with an intuitive, informative, and attractive user interface. A START
button allows one-touch operation for ease of use.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer’s unique software system supports the use of many commonly used external printers with its
USB connections. The ‘Abacus 5’ internal database is capable of storing 100,000 patient, QC, and calibration result
records including flags and graphical scatter diagrams and histograms. The system software is field-upgradeable to
ensure up-to-date operation.
An automatic optional Autosampler is available (sold separately) for automated processing of up to 100 sample tubes
for increased laboratory efficiency.
The ‘Abacus 5’ features advanced Ethernet LIS connectivity using the HL7 protocol in addition to standard serial
interfaces, providing the clinical laboratory with flexible connectivity options.
5.1.1 Measured Parameters
‘Abacus 5’ determines 21 hematology parameters including 5-part WBC differential. The instrument requires 110 l
of whole blood-sample in Closed- and Open-vial mode. Cycle time is 60 seconds.
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Parameter
Symbol
Measurement method
Red Blood cells Distribution Width
RDWcv
Derived
Platelet count
PLT
Impedance measurement
Mean Platelet Volume
MPV
Derived
Platelet Distribution Width
PDWsd
Calculated
Platelet Distribution Width
PDWcv
Calculated
Thrombocrit
PCT
Calculated
Table 1. ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Parameters
5.1.2 Approved Reagents and Control Materials
Always use reagents, control materials and calibration materials that are recommended and approved by the
manufacturer. The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, control material, calibrator material and reagents are part of a system and
are carefully designed and selected for optimal performance. Using unapproved reagents or controls may cause false
flagging or incorrect, inaccurate results.
Only genuine Diatron reagents may be used in the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Diatron recommends the use of Diacon 5
control material and Diatrocal calibration material from Diatron. These materials have been specifically assayed for
use in the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
For additional details about these materials, please contact the manufacturer directly.
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If the eyes or skin come into contact with any of the reagents, flush abundantly with
water. If ingested, drink water immediately and seek medical attention.
Description
Multiple micro-filtered, particle free buffered isotonic
solution, containing stabilizers, special additives and
preservatives.
Application
Quantitative and qualitative determination of RBC, WBC,
PLT and HGB concentration.
Appearance
Colorless, odorless solution.
Shelf-life
36 months
Open bottle stability
120 days
Storage
Between +15 °C and +30 °C. (~59-86 °F)
Diatron reagent code
D151-X (X: packaging size; 2=20L)
Color code
Green
Description
Multiple micro-filtered, particle free reagent solution,
containing lysing detergents, stabilizers, leucoprotective
components, special additives and preservatives.
Application
Quantitative and qualitative determination of WBC, 5diff
and HGB concentration.
Appearance
Colorless solution, foaming by shaking.
Shelf-life
24 months
Open bottle stability
120 days
Storage
Between +15 °C and +30 °C. (~59-86 °F)
Diatron reagent code
D301-X (X: packaging size 5=5L)
Color code
Yellow
Description
Multiple micro-filtered, particle free reagent solution,
containing stabilizers, leucoprotective components, special
additives and preservatives.
Application
Quantitative determination of WBC, leukocyte four-part
5.1.3 Genuine Diatron Reagents
Only use the genuine Diatron reagents below to ensure proper performance of the ‘Abacus’ analyzer. Reagents are
manufactured and provided by Diatron MI Plc., and are for in vitro diagnostic use only.
5.1.3.1 Diatro•Dil-5P Diluent
Table 2. Diatro•Dil-5P Diluent Information
The product is environmentally friendly, and does not contain azide nor cyanide
5.1.3.2 Diatro•Lyse-5P
Table 3. Diatro•Lyse-5P Information
The product is environmentally friendly, and does not contain azide nor cyanide
5.1.3.3 Diatro•Diff-5P
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differentiation (LYM, MON, NEU, EOS).
Appearance
Colorless, odorless solution.
Shelf-life
24 months
Open bottle stability
120 days
Storage
Between +15 °C and +30 °C. (~59-86 °F)
Diatron reagent code
D302-X (X: packaging size 1=1L)
Color code
Orange
Table 4. Diatro•Diff-5P Information
Description
Containing alkaline hypochlorite, special additives and
preservatives.
Application
Capillaries, tubing and chambers, removing blood
component precipitates.
Appearance
Slightly yellow liquid with chlorine odor.
Shelf-life
15 months.
Open bottle stability
120 days
Storage
Between +15 °C and +30 °C (~59-86 °F)
Diatron reagent code
D801-X (X: packaging size 1=100mL)
The product is environmentally friendly, and does not contain azide nor cyanide
5.1.3.4 Diatro•Hypocleaner CC
Table 5. Diatro•Hypocleaner CC Information
The “Hypocleaner CC” is not an online-reagent (not directly connected to the ‘Abacus 5’). This reagent is aspirated
from a sample tube into the ‘Abacus 5’ directly.
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-
+
Blood cell suspension
External electrode
Internal electrode
Aperture
5.2 Principles of Operation
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer uses a combination of methods to provide measurement results:
Volumetric impedance is used to determine the cellular concentrations and volume distributions of
leukocytes (WBC), erythrocytes (RBC), and platelets (PLT).
Photometric measurement of light absorbance is used to determine hemoglobin (HGB) concentration.
Optical measurement of light scattering and diffraction is used to determine five part leukocyte (LYM%,
MON%, NEU%, EOS%, BAS%) differential parameters.
5.2.1 Volumetric Impedance Method
The volumetric impedance method determines cellular concentrations and volume distributions of cells by detecting
and measuring changes in electrical impedance when particles suspended in a conductive liquid pass through a small
aperture. The method is “volumetric” because a small known volume of blood is precisely diluted with a conductive
diluent and forced through the aperture at a fixed rate.
A constant direct current flows between the electrodes on either side of the aperture. Each cell passing through the
aperture causes a change in the electrical impedance of the conductive blood cell suspension. This change is sensed
by the ‘Abacus 5’ electronics and converted to an electrical pulse. The quantity of pulses is proportional to the
number of particles. The intensity of each pulse is proportional to the volume of the particle. The volume distribution
diagrams of the particles result in the WBC, RBC, and PLT histograms that measured in femtoliter volume units.
Electronic discrimination allows separation of erythrocytes (RBC) and platelets (PLT). A lytic reaction lyses
erythrocytes to clearly measure leukocytes (WBC).
5.2.2 Photometric Light Absorbance Method
A lysed blood sample dilution can be analyzed for hemoglobin (HGB) concentration based on its stable chromogen
content. The reagent lyses the red blood cells causing the release of cellular hemoglobin. The hemoglobin
Figure 3. Volumetric Impedance Method
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concentration is measured by taking a photometric reading across the ‘Abacus 5’ WBC chamber. The HGB
measurement is calculated as the difference between and blank and a sample measurement with and without
illumination to reduce the effect of liquid refraction and incident light.
Figure 4. Photometric Light Absorbance Method
5.2.3 Optical Light Scatter and Diffraction Method
Optical measurement of light scattering and diffraction is used to determine five part leukocyte (LYM%, MON%,
NEU%, EOS%, BAS%) differential parameters. An optical measuring head contains a focused laser source that is used
to illuminate a stream of leukocytes (WBC) suspended in an optically clear diluent moving through a flow cell.
The cells scatter light as they flow through the path of the laser beam. An optical detector senses changes in the
intensity of the scattered laser light which are proportional to the cell volume and granularity of the cell’s internal
structure. The ‘Abacus 5’ electronics convert these changes to electrical pulses which are gathered and stored for
analysis. Five part population discrimination is based on analysis of the two dimensional volume and granularity
distribution scatter diagram.
Figure 5. ‘Abacus 5’ Optical Head Block DIagram
Cells with greater volume or size or more granularity will tend to scatter greater amounts of light. The intensity of
scattered light is detected by an optical signal processing system.
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Figure 6. Optical Signal Processing System
External structure and the size of the cell cause lower angles of scatter, and internal granularity or complexity causes
higher angles of diffraction. Both low and high angles of light scatter are captured by optical sensors, providing the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer with two independent measurements for each cell crossing the path of the laser beam.
Figure 7. Cellular Light Scatter
The light scatter data are gathered and plotted as a two dimensional scatter diagram. Similar cells have similar
scatter characteristics and tend to group together. This allows the analytical software to differentiate and identify the
leukocyte populations and generate the 4DIFF and BASO scatter diagrams.
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5.3 Inside the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer
Touch Screen Display
Front
Panel
START Button
Sample Rotor
5.3.1 Front Panel
Figure 8. 4DIFF Scatter Diagram
Figure 9. Abacus 5 Front Panel
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The touch screen display is the primary user interface of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer for user interactions and data entry.
1
2
3
4
5
6
The LCD screen can be cleaned damp sponge and gentle detergent.
The front panel is a hinged cover that provides easy access to the shear valve, sampling needle and syringes for
cleaning and maintenance. The front panel, START button, and the sample rotor can be cleaned with damp sponge
and regular e.g. household cleaning material
Sample tubes are placed into a tube adapter inserted on the sample rotor for closed vial or open vial single-tube
manual sample processing. The sample tube is rotated from the front of the unit into the inside of the ‘Abacus 5’ for
aspiration. This safety feature protects the operator from inadvertent contact with the aspiration needle during
specimen processing.
Automatic sample processing with the optional Autosampler can be interrupted in order to run one or more stat
samples with the sample rotor. Automatic processing can be resumed after stat sample processing is complete.
The START button allows easy one-hand operation of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. The color of the START button indicates
the status of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
Green – ready to process samples
Red – busy
Orange – standby
5.3.2 Back Panel
Figure 10. Abacus 5 Back Panel
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Power connector: the ‘Abacus 5’ power connector should be connected to a grounded power outlet that meets
Green
1 connector
Diatro•Dil-DIFF diluent
Orange
1 connector
Diatro•Diff-5p
Yellow
1 connector
Diatro•Lyse-5p
Red
2 connectors
Waste
1
PS2 Mouse port for optional mouse
1
PS2 Keyboard for optional PS2 keyboard
2
COM port for LIS
1
DVI-D port (unused)
1
VGA port (unused)
2
RJ45 Ethernet port for LIS
4
USB 2.0 ports for peripherals
3
Audio jacks (unused)
the requirements listed in section 2.5.
Main power switch: this is a small switch located next to the power connector. This switch turns off all electrical
power to the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Leaving this switch on allows the ‘Abacus 5’ to remain in the standby state. The
switch is on when it is in the ‘up’ position labeled ‘1’ and is off when it is in the down position labeled ‘0’.
Standby switch: flipping this switch to the ‘up’ position takes the ‘Abacus 5’ main computer out of the standby
state and powers up internal analyzer components. Please note that this switch springs back to the down position
when released and does not stay in the ‘up’ position.
Table 6. Reagent Connector Color Codes
Hardware Key connector: this connection is used to plug in the hardware key supplied with every new package of
genuine Diatron Diatro•Lyse-5p reagent. A new reagent key provides the analyzer with the ability to run 700
measurements. When the measurement count has been exhausted, the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer stops processing
samples.
Reagent connectors: five color-coded tubing connectors provide connection to the reagents. There are three
reagent connectors and two waste connectors.
Main board back panel I/O Ports: these are the back panel computers of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer main computer
board. They provide standard connection to peripherals such as external keyboard and mouse, printers, bar code
readers.
Figure 11. Main Board Back Panel I/O Ports
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Avoid getting liquids on the electrical connectors. The rear panel of the analyzer should be cleaned with a cloth or
Pressure Sensors
Small Measure Buffer
Drain Buffer,
Mix, RBC & WBC
Chambers
Valves 1-22
Valves 23-44
Diluent Buffers
Diff-5p, Lyse-5p Buffers
Sheath Buffer
sponge with alcohol.
Serial # and manufacturing label:
5.3.3 Left Side Assembly
To access the left or right side assemblies, the side panels must be removed. Please refer to section 17.3 for
information about removing the side panels.
Pressure sensors measure the differential pressures of vacuum buffer for impedance base and optical
measurement and empty chamber process.
Small Measure buffer is a vacuum buffer used for impedance measurement.
Sheath buffer is a reservoir for Diatro•Dil-Diff diluent for optical measurements.
Figure 12. Left Side Assembly
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Diff-5P buffer is a reservoir for Diatro•Diff-5P reagent.
Aspiration Needle
Horizontal, Vertical
Motion Unit
Sample Rotor
Washing Head
Optical Head
Power Supply
Autosampler
Connector
Lyse-5P buffer is a reservoir for Diatro•Lyse-5P reagent.
Diluent buffers are reservoirs for Diatro•Dil-5P diluent.
Valves 1-44 connect pneumatic components to carry out dilution, reaction, measurement, and waste
disposal processes.
Drain buffer controls chamber draining procedures.
Mix chamber performs the first step of RBC dilution.
RBC chamber performs the second step of RBC dilution and contains the RBC aperture.
WBC chamber performs the WBC dilution and holds the WBC aperture and HGB photometric
measurement system.
5.3.4 Right Side Assembly
Figure 13. Left Side Assembly
Aspirating needle aspirates a blood sample from the sample tube.
Horizontal, vertical motion unit positions the aspiration needle.
Washing head cleans the aspiration needle to prepare for the next sample.
Sample rotor holds the sample tube for single tube manual presentation.
Autosampler connector is the power and control connector of the optional Autosampler.
Optical head contains the laser source, optical detectors and auto alignment mechanism for the optical
measurement.
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Shear Valve
Aspiration Needle
Sample Rotor
5.3.5 Front Assembly
Figure 14. Front Assembly Behind the Front Panel
Syringe pumps control the volume and flow rate of reagents through the pneumatic components.
Shear valve is an integrated multi-functional valve for segmenting precise volumes of blood.
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6 User Interface
The user interface of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, and provide access to all user
level functions. You can interact with the ‘Abacus 5’ by using only the touch screen and the virtual on-screen keypad,
or by using an external keyboard and mouse (PS2 or USB). The Start button is considered an important part of the
user interface, allowing one-hand, one-touch processing of sample tubes.
6.1 Using the Touch Screen
The touch screen is a pressure sensitive overlay on the screen of the ‘Abacus 5’. It allows selection of menu items and
pressing of buttons by gently pressing or tapping the surface over the selected item. This method is called ‘tapping’.
The touch-screen device used in the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is selected for reliability, endurance and compatibility with
the medical laboratory environment. Simple operations are supported, but multi-touch “gestures” or multiple
tapping are not supported.
The touchable items on the ‘Abacus 5’ user interface are designed to be large enough to tap with finger. The use of a
tapping tool may be useful if the operator has larger or thicker fingers, or when wearing oversize gloves. A tapping
tool can be pencil eraser or a specially designed stylus available at computer or consumer electronics stores.
Do not use sharp or heavy objects to operate the touch screen. The surface material is moderately resistant to
liquids. Avoid touching the screen with wet fingers, or allow liquids to come in contact with the screen or the
surrounding area.
If you find that the ‘Abacus 5’ touch screen responds in a different area than the one you are tapping, then please
perform a touch screen calibration procedure before calling for service or support. See chapter 17.5 for more details
on touch screen calibration and other maintenance procedures.
6.2 Using the ‘Start’ Button
The ‘Start’ button is a physical button on the front cover of the ‘Abacus 5’. It has the following functions:
Start a single tube, closed or open vial measurement using the sample rotor by pressing the Start button.
Provide color-coded feedback about the status of the measurement system.
Green means that the ‘Abacus 5’ is ready to start a new measurement.
Red means that the system is busy running a measurement or a procedure.
Orange color means that the analyzer is in standby mode.
6.3 Using an External Mouse
An external mouse can be used to perform the same functions as the touch screen. Navigate the mouse pointer over
the desired item and click the left mouse button instead of tapping the touch-screen to activate the function. This
procedure is referenced as clicking (click) an item. Touch screen operation continues to be available even if an
external mouse is connected to the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
It is possible to move the mouse pointer to a place on the screen where it isn’t viewable. Move the mouse pointer up
or to the left to make it visible again.
6.4 Using an External Keyboard
An external keyboard provides the same data entry features as the on-screen virtual keypad presented by the touch
screen user interface with faster typing.
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The “Settings/Customize/On screen keyboard active” check-box allows you to choose whether the on-screen virtual
keypad is presented or not when data entry is required (name, sample ID, target value etc.). If the check box is left
unchecked, then the on-screen virtual keypads are not presented and an external keyboard is required for data entry.
If the check box remains checked, the external keyboard can still be used by pressing the ‘ESC’ key on the external
keyboard to dismiss the on-screen virtual keyboard and complete the data entry using the external keyboard.
6.5 Using the On-Screen Virtual Keypads
There are three types of virtual on-screen keypads:
Alpha-numeric with shift and symbol options
Numeric only
Date
The particular virtual on-screen keypad presented is tailored to the data entry required. If only numeric values are
accepted than a numeric-only keypad is presented. For selection of dates, a date keypad is presented.
The touch-pad of the ‘Abacus 5’ handles single taps only. The Shift and Symbol keys are ‘sticky’ on the virtual on-
screen keypads like the ‘caps-lock’ on a PC key-board. Click/tap on the appropriate buttons to type in the required
value. Complete the operation by clicking/tapping the ‘Done’ button. The ‘Symbols’ button presents special
characters such as the question mark or ampersand.
Figure 15. Alphanumeric Virtual On-Screen Keypad
Figure 16. ‘Sticky’ Shift and Symbol Buttons
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Figure 17. Numeric Virtual On-screen Keypad
Figure 18. Date Virtual On-Screen Keypad
6.6 Using the Graphical User Interface
The graphical user interface (GUI) of the ‘Abacus 5’ is divided into three main sections. Refer to Figure 19 to see these
sections:
1. Quick links to main functions (top section)
2. Interactive display area (middle section)
3. Status display (bottom section)
The main menu shown below is displayed in the interactive display area when the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is initially
powered up.
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Top Navigation Section
Screen Body
Bottom Section
Figure 19. Graphical User Interface Sections
6.6.1 Quick Links
The upper part of the GUI is always visible during all operations and presents several quick link buttons. Selecting one
of the quick link buttons determines what is displayed in the interactive display area. The selected button is framed
on three sides for clear visual feedback. The quick link for Autosampler functions is enabled only if the optional
Autosampler is connected.
6.6.2 The Interactive Display Area
The middle section is used to display the main menu, functions, information, results, and all the panels that contain
information about the active mode.
6.6.3 The Status Display
The bottom section is called the Status display, and presents the user with the following:
The Help icon
Status of the Autosampler unit
The state of the reagent and waste containers
Error/ warning icons
Printer status
Status of the pneumatic system (standby, manual measure, rinse, clean)
Progress of the active operation
Time
Input language
Clicking or tapping on an error or warning icon navigates directly to the relevant menu where the problem can be
addressed, or provides the user with information on how to resolve the problem.
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Figure 20. The Status Display
6.6.4 Entering Information
The ‘Abacus 5’ sometimes requires the operator to enter information such as sample ID or patient data. In order to
enter information into a data field simply tap or click on it. The data field will change color to yellow indicating that
data entry is active for that field. Information can be entered using the virtual on-screen keypad or with an optional
external keyboard.
6.7 The Menu System
The graphical user interface of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer has primary functions that are accessible directly by means of
icons or controls that are always available to the operator. The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer also has secondary functions that
are available via two or more taps or clicks through the menu structure, or menu tree.
6.7.1 Primary Menu Items
The following menu items or functions are directly accessible:
Start a manual single tube measurement
Start an automated measurement
Access the database
Initiate printing
Access the main menu
Access the control panel of the Autosampler (opens with double click or tap)
Access the time adjustment panel (opens with double click/tap)
Access the warnings panel (only visible if an error or warning was reported)
6.7.2 Starting a Manual Single Tube Measurement
Tapping or clicking on the ‘Measure’ icon with the single sample tube graphic allows access to the following
functions:
Initiate a primary blank measurement
Make adjustments and settings about the manual measurement:
o Enter the Sample ID (unique or auto-increment)
o Select the associated patient
o Select the sample type or patient mode
Start a manual measurement
View the measurements results in detail:
o View the measured parameters
o View the calculated parameters
o View parameters that are out of the normal range
o View error, warning, or clinical flags
See section 8.4.1 for more information about manual measurements.
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6.7.3 Start Automated Measurements
Tapping or clicking the ‘AS’ icon with the multiple sample tube graphic allows access to the following functions:
Initiate automated measurements in one of three modes:
o Full scan mode
o Free list mode
o Selected samples mode
o Remote worklist mode
Define sample parameters (the parameter list depends which one of the three sample modes are selected)
Monitor the progress of the automated measurements
View the details completed measurements
See section 8.4.2 for more information about automated measurements.
6.7.4 Access the Database
Tapping or clicking the ‘Database’ icon with the file cabinet graphic allows access to the following functions:
Select completed and measurement stored as database records
Export database records for storage or import results for viewing
Delete database records
Send database records to the LIS
Review the details of selected measurements
See section 1 for more information about accessing and using the ‘Abacus 5’ database.
6.7.5 Initiate Printing
Tapping or clicking the ‘Print’ icon with the printer graphic will print the active panel or measurement result
according to the printer settings.
See section 15.6 for more information about printing on the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
6.7.6 Main Menu
Tapping or clicking the ‘Menu’ icon with the main menu graphic displays and allows access to the main menu. The
main menu is automatically displayed when the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is started up. The main menu icons are arranged
in an intuitive and attractive circular design.
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Patient
New: Add a new patient
Edit: Modify an individual patient’s information
Details: View an individual patient’s information
See section 1 for more information about patient data
Exit
Cancel: Cancels shutdown of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Figure 21. ‘Abacus 5’ Main Menu
6.7.7 Autosampler Control Panel
If you have an optional Autosampler installed, the Autosampler control panel can be opened by double
clicking/tapping the Autosampler status on the left side of the status display on the bottom of the screen. The
Autosampler control panel allows you to see of the Autosampler is operational and perform an Autosampler
initialization.
See section 8.4.2.6 for more information about the Autosampler control panel.
6.7.8 Adjust the Time and Date
Double click/tap the time display on the right side of the status display on the bottom of the screen to bring up a
panel for adjusting the stored time and date of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. See section 6.7.8 for more information about
time and date adjustment.
6.7.9 Open the Warning Panel
If an error or warning is currently active, an exclamation point icon appears on the status display. Click the icon to
review the active error or warning and jump to the appropriate menu where the error or warning can be addressed
(such as reagent replacement).
6.7.10 Menu Tree
The following is a listing of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer main menu tree:
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43
Prepare for shipment: Performs an extensive drain procedure of the ‘Abacus 5’ pneumatic system in
preparation for shipment or an extended period of inactivity
Log off: Logs off the current user session
Shutdown: Prepares the ‘Abacus 5’ for a complete shutdown
See section 7.3 to learn how to power down the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer correctly
Settings
Customize
Skins: Change the display skin
Patient’s displayed data: Patient identifier visible in the database display
Language: Change the active language
Limit Style: View parameter normal range status in numerical or graphical format
Sound Volume: Change the volume of the ‘Abacus 5’ built-in speaker
On screen keyboard active: Turn off on-screen virtual keypads for use with an optional external
keyboard
Demo mode: The analyzer will not perform any pneumatic action
Laboratory: Seven lines of text of lab information be displayed on each printed page
External devices
Sending port baud rate: Select transmission rate for serial LIS
Automatic LIS: Select whether to automatically transmit results each time a sample is processed
LIS: Select Ethernet LIS connection
IP: IP address of Ethernet-based LIS host computer listening port
Port: Port number of Ethernet-based LIS host computer listening port
Bidirectional LIS: Selects whether Autosampler information downloads are allowed
System
Database columns order: Change visibility and position of the database columns
Special flags(G, L): Select whether G, L flags are displayed or printed
Waste container volume: Selects a 10L, 20L, or no waste container (direct to drain)
Database display limit: Selects all or only last month of database record display
Use only Sarstedt-Monovette tub from sample rotor: Change sampling adjustments to accommodate
Sarstedt Monovette tubes
Standby time: Time period of inactivity before the ‘Abacus 5’ automatically enters standby
Offline rinsing frequency: Time period of inactivity before the ‘Abacus 5’ performs an offline rinse to
keep the pneumatic system in peak operating condition
Screen saver: Time period of inactivity before screen saver takes effect
Blank Request Time: Time interval between system requests to process a blank specimen (0 h = no blank
request reminders)
Units
HGB unit: Selects the units for HGB and HGB-derived or calculated parameters
Count unit: Selects the units for WBC, RBC, and PLT and derived or calculated parameters
PCT/HCT unit: Selects the units for PCT/HCT parameters
MCV unit: Selects the units for MCV parameters
Printer
Printer: Selects which printer to print to
Printer status: Display the currently selected printer status
Color printing: Selects whether to print in color
Double sided printing: Selects whether to print multi-page printouts on both sides of a page
Items in queue: Number of items in the printer queue
Cancel all jobs: Cancels all items in the selected printer’s queue
Pre-printed paper’s header length (px) – Reserves space (pixels) at top of page for pre-printed letterhead
Automatic print: Selects whether to print for every new sample processed
Logo visible: Selects whether to print or omit graphical logo to printout
Warning flags are visible: Selects whether to print or omit warning flags to printout
Diagnostic flags are visible: Selects whether to print or omit Diagnostic flags to printout
Refresh printers list: Refreshes the list of displayed printers
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Profile limits: Enter normal ranges for Human, Male, Female, and Alternate 1 and 2 profile limits
X-B: Change X-B limits and targets
User: Add and manage users of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer (only available to administrator users)
Delete user: Initiates deletion of a user account
Administrator: Selects or unselects administrator privileges for the currently selected user
See section 1 for more information about ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer user settings
Maintenance
Cleaning: Perform extended cleaning of various pneumatic components
Draining: Drain various internal system reservoirs
Empty chamber: Empty RBC, WBC, and mix chambers
Prime: Prime one or all reagent reservoirs
Fill: Fills the fluidic components of the system with reagents
Touchscreen: Calibrate the touchscreen location for taps and button presses
See section 1 for more information about ‘Abacus 5’ maintenance procedures
Calibration
Calibrate
Calibration mode: Select type of calibration procedure to run
Calibration type: Select human blood or calibrator material
Target values: Enter the target ranges for each calibrated parameter
Cancel: Cancels a calibration procedure
Next: Initiates processing of calibration run
View calibrations: View and delete previous calibrations
See section 1 for more information about ‘Abacus 5’ calibration
QC
QC Measure: Initiate processing of a control sample
QC Reference select: Select which stored QC reference this measurement belongs to
Set QC Reference: Create a new stored QC reference
Load QC reference: load QC reference values from removable media such as a flash drive
Save reference: Save entered QC reference values
View QC references: Browse stored QC references
Delete: Delete a stored QC reference
Details: View detailed results for a stored QC reference
View QC data: Browse individual QC sample measurements
Delete: Delete currently selected QC run
View QC diagrams: View QC diagrams for currently selected
Details: View detailed result screen of a QC run
View QC diagrams: View Levy-Jennings diagrams of QC data for the currently selected QC reference
View QC data: Browse individual QC sample measurements
Next diagrams: Browse the next set of QC diagrams
View X-B data: Browse individual X-B sample measurements
Reject: Reject a run from being included in X-B calculations
View rejected: View previously rejected X-B runs
Undo reject: Restore a previously rejected X-B run and use in X-B calculations
View X-B diagrams: Navigate directly to X-B diagrams
View X-B diagrams: View X-B diagrams of X-B data
See section 1 for more information about quality control on the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Diagnostics
Selftest: Perform electronic and/or pneumatic system self tests
Load last selftest: Loads the results of the last selftest
Start electronic: Starts the electronic tests
Start both: Starts both electronic and pneumatic tests
Log: Review and obtain additional details about events in the system log
Details: Display details about the selected event in the event log
Selftest: Navigates directly to self test screen
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Reagent status: Reset levels for individual reagents and waste (or all) for reagent replacement
Statistics: Provides operating statistics such as cycle counts, errors, etc.
Information: Provides version information for all software items in the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Table 7. ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Menu Tree
6.7.11 Safety Access Codes
Some functions require password protected confirmation. For example, deleting a record from the database requires
entry of a password.
The security password for deleting database entries is: 555.
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7 Start Up and Shut Down the ‘Abacus 5’
7.1 Start Up and Shut Down Overview
The ‘Abacus 5’ is an advanced instrument with computer and pneumatic subsystems that need to be properly started
up and shut down for continuing reliable performance. Not following proper startup and shutdown procedures may
lead to increased maintenance and unnecessary service calls.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer start up sequence requires four steps:
Power up the electrical system.
Start up the internal user interface computer and log in if the multi-user mode is activated.
Start up the pneumatic system components.
Perform and accept an initial ‘blank’ measurement.
A normal shut down of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer has the reverse steps:
Clean and empty the pneumatic system components.
Log off (multi-user mode is activated) and properly shut down the internal user interface computer.
Power down the electrical subsystem.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer also has a ‘prepare for shipment’ shut down option that performs an extended cleaning and
emptying of the pneumatic components. This option can be used to prepare the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer for an extended
period of inactivity or for shipping to a new location.
There are also emergency shutdown procedures in case of emergency.
7.2 Starting Up the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer
7.2.1 Visual Inspection
Perform a visual inspection of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer before starting up. This is particularly important if the ‘Abacus
5’ is operated by multiple operators.
Check the reagent tubes by gently pulling on them to make sure that connections are not loose.
Open the front cover and ensure that there is no leakage around the shear valve or the syringe pumps.
Check for salt stains around the reagent tubing and the reagent containers.
Check that the power cord is plugged in both into the back panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer and to the wall
outlet.
Empty the waste container. After start up reset the waste level in the “Main menu/ Diagnostics/Reagent
status panel”.
7.2.2 Power Up the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer
To power up the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, perform the following steps:
Turn on the main power switch (small switch) on the rear panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer located near the
power connection to the ‘up’ position labeled ‘1’ to power on the electrical system of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
If the optional Autosampler is installed, turn the power switch on the right side of the Autosampler to the
‘on’ position labeled ‘1’ to power on the electrical system of the Autosampler.
Turn on printers or any peripherals that have their own power switches.
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The electrical system of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer can remain powered up indefinitely. Please follow local regulations or
Start-up Logo Screen
Log On Screen
laboratory procedures when deciding whether to fully power down the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer after work hours.
7.2.3 Start Up the User Interface
To start up the internal user interface computer of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, flip the standby switch near the top of the
rear panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to the ‘up’ position. The standby switch springs back to the ‘down’ position after
activation.
Figure 22. ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer Startup and Log On Screens
The following sequence of events takes place after enabling the standby switch:
The internal computer starts up displaying the ‘EPIA’ logo in a rotated way.
The embedded Windows® XP® operating system starts up. As the display initializes the screen changes color.
The ‘Abacus 5’ application software starts up displaying the ‘Abacus 5’ logo screen. Individual component
start up status is displayed in the bottom right corner of the logo.
If the multi-user option is enabled then a user ID and password is required.
The ‘Abacus 5’ main menu is displayed.
At this point, the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer user interface is ready to use, but the analyzer is not yet ready to measure
samples. This requires initialization of the ‘Abacus 5’ pneumatic system. The following functions are available at this
time:
Use the patient database to add and modify entries.
Review, archive, send to LIS and print existing measurement records.
Review calibration and QC results and history.
Change settings.
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7.2.4 User Logon
If the multi-user feature is activated, a user must be logged in before the user interface of the ‘Abacus 5’ can be
accessed. You can log in on two different ways:
Enter the user ID and password assigned to your account.
Create a new user account.
The multi-user feature of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer tracks which user is logged on when important activities are
performed such as sample or QC measurements or calibration. The multi-user feature allows full access to
administrator users while restricting regular users from actions that change the way the ’Abacus 5’ analyzer operates,
such as changing calibration settings.
See section 15.7 for details about user management.
7.2.5 Pneumatic System Start and Blank Measurement
Before measuring any blood or control samples, the pneumatic system components of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer need
to be initialized and a blank measurement run and accepted. To start the pneumatic system and run a blank
measurement, click or tap the ‘Measure’ icon with the single test tube graphic on the top left corner of the screen.
The following sequence takes place:
The color of the ‘Start’ button changes to red.
The reagents are primed.
The measuring system is flushed.
The sample-door, syringe, needle x/y movement, and shear valve motors are activated and tested.
The vacuum system is activated, and pump sensors and vacuum leakage is tested.
A blank measurement is initiated automatically.
An empty result screen is displayed.
The blank measurement is performed.
The results of the blank measurement are displayed.
The results of a blank measurement must be accepted before blood or control samples can be processed. If the
results from the first blank measurement are not acceptable, it does not necessarily mean that something is wrong
about your ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Please consider the following:
Blood proteins or other particles can accumulate in the pneumatic tubing or components.
Although the reagents contain antimicrobial agents, some microbial growth may still be present.
An extended period of inactivity without performing a ‘prepare for shipment’ procedure may result in salt
crystal development in the pneumatic components.
Running additional blank measurements will usually bring the blank measurements down to an acceptable level.
Blank measurements will be flagged if they exceed the following thresholds:
WBC >0.20 x 10
RBC >0.05 x 10
PLT >15 x 10
3
cells/µL
6
cells/µL
3
cells/µL
HGB >1.0 g/dL
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If the ‘Abacus 5’ was not in use for an extended period of time, the start up of the pneumatic system components can
take significantly longer and require more blank measurements. To prevent these problems, use the ‘prepare for
shipment’ process when the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer will be inactive for an extended time.
7.3 Exiting the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer
After you have completed lab operations and you are ready to exit the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, you can:
Log off
Shut down the ‘Abacus 5’
Power off the ‘Abacus 5’
Prepare the Abacus 5’ for shipment
Figure 23. Abacus 5 Shutdown Options
Click or tap the Exit icon on the main menu to access various exit options. Click or tap the ‘Cancel’ button to return to
normal operation.
7.3.1 Log Off
Clicking or tapping the Exit icon on the main menu brings up the ‘Shutting down Analyzer’ panel. Select ‘Log off’ to
end the active user session.
Figure 24. Log Off
After the current user is logged off the logon panel is displayed.
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7.3.2 Shut Down
The shutdown procedure must be used to maintain the reliable operation of the instrument. To properly shut down
the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, click or tap the Exit icon on the main menu and select ‘Shutdown.’
Figure 25. Shut Down
The shutdown procedure performs two key functions:
If the pneumatic system components of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer were initialized, a shut down procedure is
performed that rinses the pneumatic components. This prepares the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer for a period of
inactivity of up to 5 days.
The ‘Abacus 5’ operating software and the Windows® XP® Embedded operating system are shut down. The
analyzer saves all settings, closes the file system and database, and automatically shuts down the internal
user interface computer.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer may ask to perform a cleaning cycle based on the analyzer’s usage patterns and the state of
the pneumatic components. If this occurs, the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer will request that a tube with cleaning reagent be
introduced at the sample rotor. The cleaning procedure may take a few minutes. Do not turn off the analyzer until it
indicates that it is safe to do so.
7.3.3 Prepare for Shipment
If the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is not to be used for more than 5 days or is being transported to a new location then the
‘prepare for shipment’ procedure should be performed instead the regular shutdown procedure. Click or tap the
‘Exit’ icon on the main menu, then select the ‘Prepare for shipment’ button.
Figure 26. Prepare for Shipment
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If the ‘Abacus 5’ is powered off without a proper shutdown or prepare for shipment
procedure, the following may occur:
The pneumatic components may lock in an undefined state. The next startup and
pneumatic initialization may take longer with increased reagent consumption.
The ‘Abacus 5’ application software and/or the Windows® XP® Embedded
operating system can suffer damage or data loss.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer may have to be restarted by a service engineer after an
improper shut down or power off sequence.
The ‘Prepare for Shipment’ procedure should be used for following reasons:
The reagents may spill out if the ‘Abacus 5’ is tilted, potentially causing electrical short circuit or corrosion.
Reagents can flow out of the ‘Abacus 5’ if the reagent intakes are disconnected.
Evaporation may cause reagents left in the pneumatic components in the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to become
concentrated and form crystals that increase blank results, damage pneumatic components, and may require
a service engineer to restore proper operation.
Microbial growth may occur if reagents are left in an inactive analyzer for extended time periods, causing
high blank results and may require a service engineer to restore proper operation.
Accidental storage at very low temperatures may cause freezing that damages the pneumatic components.
It is strongly recommended that the ‘Prepare for shipment’ procedure be used if the analyzer will be inactive for
more than five days. Higher temperature or lower humidity decreases the period of time the ‘Abacus 5’ can be idle
without performing the ‘Prepare for shipment’ procedure.
The analyzer will guide you through the preparing for shipment process. This process takes about 30 minutes and
requires the following items:
“Prepare for shipment” tube set included with your ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Distilled water
After initiating the ‘Prepare for shipment’ procedure the system will prepare itself for the draining process. Do not
power off the analyzer during these steps unless the system indicates that is safe to do so.
Step 1: The analyzer will ask you to disconnect the reagents from the reagent connectors on the back panel except
for the waste connection. Leave the waste container tubing connected to the analyzer. The system will drain all inner
reagent buffers throughout the pneumatic system. This step takes approximately 9 minutes. Do not turn the analyzer
off during this step.
Step 2: The instrument will ask you to connect distilled water to the reagent inputs.
Figure 27. Connect Distilled Water Panel
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Use the ‘Prepare for shipment’ tube set included with your ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to perform this step. The system will
Do not turn off power of the ‘Abacus 5’ at this stage. First click or tap the ‘OK’ button,
then wait until the Windows® XP® Embedded operating system exits and shuts down the
internal ‘Abacus 5’ user interface computer.
After the shut down process is completed, you can turn off the main power switch (small
switch) on the rear panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer near the power connection to the
‘down’ position labeled ‘0’.
The procedures described in this section can damage the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer or cause
data loss or damage to critical system computer files. Use these procedures in case of
emergency only!
prime and fully rinse the tubing and pneumatic system with distilled water. This step takes approximately 7 minutes.
Do not turn the analyzer off during this step.
Step 3: The analyzer will ask you to disconnect the ‘Prepare for shipment’ tube set from the reagent connectors on
the back panel except for the waste connection. Leave the waste container tubing connected to the analyzer.
Figure 28. Remove Reagent Tubing Panel
The analyzer will drain all liquids from the instrument. This step takes approximately 10 minutes. Do not turn the
analyzer off during this step. When the process is over, the system will notify you about switching off the instrument.
Click or tap the ‘OK’ button on the notification panel and wait until the Windows® XP® Embedded exits and power off
the user interface computer.
Figure 29. Shut Down Ready Panel
Step 4: Disconnect the waste container tubing from the waste reagent connector on the back panel of the ‘Abacus 5’
analyzer.
Small droplets of distilled water may remain in the tubing after the ‘Prepare for shipment’ process completes. These
droplets will not cause any malfunction during transportation or the next start up procedure.
7.3.4 Emergency Shut Down
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7.3.4.1 Immediate Shut-Down
Figure 30. Repackaging the
‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer
The immediate shut-down can be initiated by pressing the standby button near the top of the back panel of the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. This is the same button which is used to start up the ‘Abacus 5’ user interface computer. This
shuts down the user interface computer without properly shutting down the pneumatic system components.
Possible side-effects:
The pneumatic components may be left in an undefined state. The next startup and pneumatic initialization
may take longer with increased reagent consumption.
The last settings changes and measurement results are not saved.
Immediate shut down should be avoided as a routine procedure. It should only be used if loss of electrical power is
imminent such as thunderstorms or if loss of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) backup power is imminent.
7.3.4.2 Immediate Switch Off
In case of immediate danger you can power off the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer by turning off laboratory power, or by turning
off the main power switch (small switch) on the rear panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer located near the power
connection to the ‘down’ position labeled ‘0’or unplugging the power cord from the wall outlet.
7.3.5 Repackaging the ‘Abacus 5’ Analyzer
Before repackaging your ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer for transportation or storage,
always do the following:
Perform a ‘Prepare for shipment’ procedure.
Fully power down the analyzer.
Disconnect all reagent tubes, power cords and peripheral
connections.
Always use the original packaging materials to repackage the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
Prepare the following packaging materials were included in your original
shipment:
Mini-pallet
Upper and lower packaging foams
Upper and lower carton box
Plastic bag
Place the pallet on the ground. Place the lower part of the carton box on the
pallet, and place the lower packaging foam on the carton bottom.
Put the ‘Abacus 5’ into the plastic bag, and place it into the bottom foam
part. Place the top packaging foam on the analyzer, and put the top carton
cover box over the package. Align the lower carton box flaps so that they fit
beneath the upper box edges.
Use shipping straps to gently but firmly hold the entire package together.
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8 Sample Measurement
Please note that the Sarstedt Monovette® sample tubes have a false bottom that is not
the same as the bottom of the sample tube. The sampling depth on the ‘Abacus 5’
analyzer must be changed for a Sarstedt Monovette® sample tube. To change the
sampling depth for manually presented Sarstedt Monovette® tubes at the sample rotor,
check the ‘Use only Sarstedt Monovette tube from sample rotor’ check box in the Main
menu/Settings/System panel.
The Autosampler automatically recognizes Sarstedt Monovette® tubes and automatically
changes the sampling depth.
8.1 Sample Types Supported by the ‘Abacus 5’
In this chapter you will find information about the samples usable with the ‘Abacus 5’ instrument.
8.1.1 Supported Sample Tubes Types
The ‘Abacus 5’ supports the following K3-EDTA, 13x75mm sample-tubes:
Sarstedt Monovette®
Becton Dickinson (BD) Vacutainer®
Terumo Venosafe®
Only use sample tubes with K3-EDTA anticoagulant.
You may use sample tubes from other vendors if certain conditions are fulfilled. For manually presented sample
tubes at the sample rotor measurement check if the new tube type:
Is mechanically compatible (13x75 mm family)
Can be pierced or used in open vial mode
Can be handled by the tube centralizing mechanisms on the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
It is suggested to contact your sales representative before using the new sample tube type.
For automated sample handling with the optional Autosampler, contact your sales representative before using a new
sample tube type. The Autosampler may not reliably recognize sample tube types other than the officially supported
sample tubes.
Although these sample tube types are designed for multiple piercing, it is recommended to replace the cap after 3-4
piercing cycles. Small rubber bits parts can crumble into the blood and adversely affect the performance of the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
8.1.2 Sampling Depth
The ‘Abacus 5’ is equipped with a piercing needle capable of aspirating samples from closed sample tubes. To
prevent needle blockage from rubber sample tube cap material and blood particulates, the piercing needle hole is
located on the side of the needle rather than at the bottom. Also, the sampling needle is given a safety clearance of
two millimeters from the bottom of the tube to prevent accidental breakage of sample tubes. This means that the
sampling needle cannot aspirate the last 8 millimeters (0.31 inches) of sample at the bottom of a tube. This results in
sample volume that cannot be aspirated of 0.5 ml for a Beckton Dickinson Vacutainer® tube and 0.3 ml for a Sarstedt
Monovette® tube.
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All samples should be handled as potentially infectious material and treated as a biohazard.
Figure 30. Sampling Needle
8.1.3 Open or Closed Sample Tubes
The ‘Abacus 5’ can process both open and closed sample tubes in manual mode using the sample rotor. Manually
presented sample tubes must be mixed properly before being presented to the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
Only closed sample tubes will be automatically processed by the optional Autosampler. Open sample tubes placed in
the Autosampler will be skipped and not processed.
8.1.4 Sample Collection and Handling
Please consider the following when collecting and handling blood samples:
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer aspirates 110 µL of sample in both closed and open vial modes. Under the following
conditions, the ‘Abacus 5’ may aspirate less than 110 µL of sample, but will detect and flag any inadequate
sample aspirations:
o The sample tube does not vent properly and contains residual vacuum
o The viscosity of the blood is very high
The ‘Abacus 5’ is unable to aspirate the last 8 mm (0.31 inches) or 0.3 to 0.5 ml of sample volume.
Make sure that the sample tube is filled to the sample level line indicated by the tube manufacturer. The
anticoagulant not only prevents the coagulation of blood, but also dilutes it. If the volume of blood is too low,
than this dilution can adversely affect measurement results.
Ensure that the blood and anticoagulant are properly mixed by inverting it at least 8 times. Do not shake the
sample as this could damage blood cells.
A minimum of 30 minutes should elapse between taking the blood sample and running it on the ‘Abacus 5’
for analysis to ensure that the interaction of blood and anticoagulant has fully stabilized. Check the data
sheet of the sample tube for the exact period of time.
Use only K3-EDTA anticoagulated fresh whole blood as sample.
Analyze blood samples within 7 hours of collection.
Samples should be analyzed at room temperature.
Do not deliver or store the samples at temperatures above normal body temperature.
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8.2 Sample Types and Modes
Use caution and ensure accurate data entry when manually entering sample ID or patient
ID information into the user interface of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to avoid possible
misidentification of sample results.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is designed to process the following sample types:
Whole human venous blood to determine the hematology parameters of the blood
Quality control (QC) materials for quality control purposes
Calibrator materials for calibration of the hematology parameters
QC samples are artificially modified human or human and animal blood samples with known parameter values. QC
samples can be stored for a period of time as indicated by the manufacturer.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer works in the following modes. The sample mode must be selected before a measurement
starts:
Blank mode: No sample need be presented to run a blank. Blank mode checks that the measuring system is
operating correctly and that blank measurement results are acceptable.
Human blood mode: Choose one of five human blood modes (Human, Male, Female, Alternate 1 or Alternate
2). Each mode has a unique set of normal ranges associated with it. NOTE: Alternate 1 and Alternate 2 are
sample modes that are different than Human, Male and Female, and have user-definable normal ranges.
Control (QC) mode: The hematological parameters of QC materials are known prior to analysis. Controls are
used to check the long term stability of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
Calibration with a calibrator material is not one of the ‘Abacus 5’ sample modes, but a specific procedure that can be
accessed from the Calibration icon on the main menu.
8.3 Sample Identification
The following sample information items are used to uniquely identify samples:
Sample Mode
Measurement time: assigned automatically by the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Result ID: unique database identifier automatically assigned by the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
Sample ID: assigned by the operator
o The ‘Abacus 5’ doesn’t require the sample ID to be unique
o The sample ID can submitted by:
Manual typing
Bar code reading (manual or Autosampler)
Auto-increment
o The sample ID is not applicable on blank measurements
Patient:
o A record from the patient database connected to a measurement
o Not applicable for blank and QC measurements
o Can be changed by setting the name or the database identifier of the patient displayed with the
measurement results
o The ‘default’ patient (ID =1) patient is used if no patient is selected
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8.4 Running Samples
Always ensure the ‘Use only Sarstedt Monovette tube from sample rotor’ check box in the
Main menu/Settings/System panel is checked if you are manually presenting Sarstedt
Monovette® tubes in the sample rotor. Needle damage, tube damage and spilled blood
may result if Sarstedt Monovette® tubes are presented and this option is not checked.
The ‘Abacus 5’ supports both manual and automatic sample presentation modes. Automatic sample presentation
requires the optional Autosampler. The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer software automatically detects and initializes the
Autosampler.
Before performing any measurement the ‘Abacus 5’ should be:
Powered up and started
The pneumatic system initialized and a blank measurement performed and accepted
8.4.1 Manual Mode
To use Sarstedt Monovette® manually presented tubes at the sample rotor, check the ‘Use only Sarstedt Monovette
tube from sample rotor’ check box in the Main menu/Settings/System panel.
Select the ‘Measure’ quick link at the top left of the screen to initiate a manual measurement. The new measurement
panel opens, giving you have the following options:
Review the results of the previous measurement by using the ‘Last Measure’ function. This feature can be
useful if you were interrupted during the measurement batch, and you want to double-check which sample is
the last processed sample.
Define the sample id of the sample to be processed by clicking or tapping on the “Sample ID” field:
o You can type it in the Sample ID using the virtual on-screen keypad or an external keyboard.
o You can use an external (USB) bar-code reader.
o You can use an auto-generated sample ID.
Activate or deactivate the automatic generation of sample IDs. If the ‘Autoincrement mode’ check box is
checked, then the ‘Abacus 5’ will add 1 to the last sample ID if it was fully numeric or offer ‘0’ if the last
sample ID had any non-numeric characters.
Connect a patient to the sample by clicking/ tapping on the Patient field:
o The name of this field can be ‘Name’ or ‘ID’ depending on the ‘Main Menu Settings/
Customize/Patient’s displayed data’ setting.
o If you don’t select a patient then the default patient will be used.
o As you select the patient field, the patient menu is displayed. You can select an existing patient or
define a new one. See section 1 or more detail about Patients on the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
Select the sample mode:
o Blank: a blank measurement will be processed. This is the only option available if the pneumatic
system is not initialized, or the ‘Abacus 5’ was inactive for an extended period of time. After
performing and accepting a blank measurement the other modes will be available.
o Control: a QC sample is expected. QC measurements initiated from this menu will not be saved into
the QC database, and are not part of the QC procedure. This mode is intended only as a quick system
checks. See section 1 for more information about the QC process.
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o Human blood modes: Human, Male, Female, Alternate 1, and Alternate 2. Select the mode which has
the appropriate normal ranges. NOTE: Alternate 1 and Alternate 2 are sample modes that are
different than Human, Male and Female, and have user-definable normal ranges.
Start the measurement by clicking or tapping the ‘Start’ button on the screen or by pressing the physical
‘Start’ button located on the front panel of the ‘Abacus 5’.
Figure 31. Sample Measurement Panel
After starting the measurement the sample door rotates and takes the sample tube inside the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
This is a key safety feature of the ‘Abacus 5’ and protects the operator from the sample needle during routine
operation. The Start button changes color to red to indicate that the system is busy processing the sample. The
sample is aspirated inside the analyzer and returned to the operator when the sampling process is complete. As soon
as the measurement results are available the result screen is displayed. See section 1 for more information about the
results screen.
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Figure 32. Sample Processing Result Screen
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer will be ready to take the next sample after it has finished cleaning and preparing for the next
sample. The Start button will change to green indicating it is ready to start the next sample measurement.
On the result screen you have the following options:
You can print the results by clicking/ tapping on the ‘Print’ quick link at the top of the screen. Please note that
the printing is a feature that is always available. See section 6.6.1 for more details about printing.
Return to the measurement panel by clicking or tapping the using the ‘Back’ button.
Run the next sample in routine mode by:
o Editing the ‘Next sample ID’ just below the actual results
o Accepting the auto-generated sample ID
o Starting the next measurement by clicking/ tapping the ‘Start’ button on the screen or by pressing
the physical ‘Start’ button on the front panel of the ‘Abacus 5’.
o Please note that in this mode the patient and sample mode will be carried over from the previous
sample unless they are changed.
8.4.2 Automatic Mode
Only human samples in closed sample tubes can be processed in automatic mode from the Autosampler. QC samples
and open tubes must be processed in manual mode.
After starting up the ‘Abacus 5’, select the ‘Measure’ quick link. Process a new blank must be processed if this is the
first time a new measurement panel is opened since starting up, or if an earlier blank has expired due to inactivity. An
accepted blank measurement is required before starting automatic sample processing.
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Open the AS panel by using the “AS” quick link at the top of the screen.
Figure 33. Autosampler Info and AS Panel
From the AS panel, you can initiate automated sample measurement in 3 modes:
Full Scan mode:
o The Autosampler will scan the whole sample tray
o The same sample mode (Human, Male, Female, Alternate 1, Alternate 2) will be used for all the
samples (NOTE: Alternate 1 and Alternate 2 are sample modes that are different than Human, Male
and Female, and have user-definable normal ranges)
o The sample ID is generated from the sample tube barcode (if available)
o It is not possible to assign a patient to automatically processed samples. The default patient will be
used for all samples.
Free List mode:
o The samples are defined in a list.
o The following parameters can be individually defined per sample:
Sample ID
Patient
Sample mode
o The samples should be placed in the same order in the sample tray as the samples defined in the list.
o Empty sample positions will be skipped on the sample tray.
Selected Samples mode:
o A sample can be defined for each position on the sample tray.
o Only defined samples positions on the sample tray will be processed. Additional samples will be
skipped and missing samples will be marked for later review.
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o The following parameters can be defined per sample:
Bar Code Symbology
Checksum Status
Code 128
Uses check digits
Code 39
No check digits used. If check digit are present they are
considered part of the sample ID
Interleave 2 of 5
No check digits used. If check digit are present they are
considered part of the sample ID
Codabar
Uses check digits
Code 93
Uses check digits
Code 11
Uses check digits
Incorrect reading of a sample tube bar code without check digits may result in sample
misidentification. Use bar code symbologies with check digits to prevent this.
Sample ID
Patient
Sample mode
Remote Worklist (Free list)
o The samples are defined in a list received from the LIS.
o The samples should be placed in the same order in the sample tray as the samples defined in the list.
o Empty sample positions will be skipped on the sample tray.
Samples are automatically scanned and processed in the following order:
Rack order starting with rack ‘A’ to rack ‘J’
o Rack ‘A’ is the rack nearest to the front panel of the ‘Abacus 5’
o Rack ‘J’ is the rack nearest to the back panel of the ‘Abacus 5’
Sample order for each rack starting with sample ‘1’ to sample ‘10’
o Sample ‘1’ is the sample closest to the ‘Abacus 5’
o Sample ‘10’ is the sample closest to rounded edge of the Autosampler cover
Sample A1 is the first sample processed and sample J10 is the last.
8.4.2.1 Supported Bar Code Symbologies
Some of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer automatic processing modes use the bar code on the sample tube to determine the
sample ID of the sample tube. The following bar code symbologies are supported by Autosampler bar code reader:
Table 8. Supported Autosampler Bar Code Reader Symbologies
The use of bar code symbologies with check digits will identify incorrect bar code reads in the unlikely event that the
Autosampler bar code reader incorrectly reads the sample tube bar code. Diatron recommends the use of bar code
symbologies that uses check digits to help prevent sample misidentification.
8.4.2.2 Full Scan Mode
Full Scan mode is suitable for laboratories where:
There are batches of samples with the same sample mode,
Barcode labels are in use, and
An LIS system rather than the ‘Abacus 5’ is used to associate patients with sample results.
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In Full Scan mode it is possible to add more samples to the batch after starting the automated measurement. As
usual, an accepted blank is necessary before starting automatic sample processing.
Figure 34. Full Scan Automatic Processing Mode
On the Full Scan mode panel you can:
Return to the AS panel to select a different type of automated measurement by using the ‘Back’ function.
Select a common measure mode for all samples in the tray.
Swap between the tray and list views by using the ‘View list’ and ‘View tray’ functions.
Start the automated measurement by clicking or tapping on the ‘Start’ button on the GUI.
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Figure 35. Full Scan Mode Tray View Progress
After starting the automated measurement in Full Scan mode, the Autosampler will scan all the sample positions on
the tray. Any rows with missing racks will be skipped. The Autosampler can detect the tube type and whether the
tube has a cap. Sample tubes will be skipped if it has no cap or the Autosampler cannot determine the tube type.
The Autosampler then mixes the sample tube and reads the barcode label if one is used. The sample tube is then
moved to the aspiration position where the sample is aspirated and measurement is performed. The aspiration and
measurement process is the same in automatic mode as in manual mode.
The sample tray progress can be followed in the tray view or the list view. The results for completed samples can be
reviewed by clicking or tapping on a completed sample.
The patient ID is not editable in the Full Scan mode as it is automatically set to the default patient. The sample ID is
not editable as it is read from the barcode label. If the barcode label is missing or not readable, the ‘Abacus 5’
analyzer assigns a default value and allows manual entry of the sample ID.
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Figure 36. Full Scan Mode Tray and List Views
The Autosampler allows the addition of sample tubes to a Full Scan process already in progress. To add more sample
tubes, perform the following steps:
Click or tap the ‘Stop’ button. The ‘Abacus 5’ will prompt you to wait until the current sample is completed.
Acknowledge the message by clicking or tapping the ‘OK’ button.
Insert the new samples into a rack.
Open the cover of the Autosampler.
Place the new samples behind the last measured sample.
Close the Autosampler cover.
Start the automated measurement by clicking or tapping on the ‘Start’ button on the GUI or by pressing the
physical Start button.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer keeps track of the last analyzed sample on the sample tray of the Autosampler. After
restarting the full scan process the ‘Abacus 5’ moves the Autosampler to the last processed position and continues
scanning from there.
8.4.2.3 Free List Mode
Free List mode is suitable for laboratories where:
The barcode labels are not used, or the bar codes are not the primary identifiers.
Samples are arriving from multiple sources in small batches.
In a given batch there are samples which should be measured using different modes for different normal
ranges.
To start sample measurement in Free List mode, first perform and accept a blank measurement if one is needed.
Click or tap the ‘AS’ quick link at the top of the screen and select ‘Free list mode’. The Free List mode only requires
that samples be placed in the same sequence as in the free list. It does not require that samples be matched to exact
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rack and sample positions. It is not possible to add additional samples to the batch in free list mode after automated
measurement has started.
Figure 37. Free List Mode Selection
On the Free List mode panel you can:
Return to the AS panel to select a different type of automated measurement by using the ‘Back’ function
Add or remove list items
Define the following parameters for the new list items:
o Measure mode
o Sample ID
o Patient ID
Swap between the tray and list views by using the ‘View list’ and ‘View tray’ functions
Start the automated measurement by clicking or tapping on the ‘Start’ button on the GUI or by pressing the
physical Start button
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Figure 38 Figure 39. Preparing a Free List
As with the Full Scan mode, the Autosampler will scan all the sample positions on the tray and rows with missing
racks will be skipped. The Autosampler will only process tube types it recognizes with caps attached. The automated
mixing, aspiration, and analysis process is the same as the Full Scan Mode, and the progress can be followed in tray
or list view.
The main difference between the Free List mode and the Full Scan mode is that the Free List mode identifies samples
by matching them sequentially to the list, and comparing their measurement results to the normal range associated
with the sample mode selected for that sample.
Figure 40. Free List Mode Progress: List View
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Figure 41. Free List Mode Progress: Tray View
Sample barcode labels are read and compared with the sample ID that was previously entered into the free list
before starting automatic processing. If the two do not match, the barcode part of the tray view sample icon changes
to red.
If the automated processing is interrupted for any reason, it can be restarted it by clicking or tapping on the ‘Start’
button on the screen or by pressing the physical Start button.
8.4.2.4 Selected Samples Mode
Selected Samples mode is suitable for laboratories where:
Barcode labels are used.
In a given batch there are samples which should be measured using different modes for different normal
ranges.
Data security is a concern.
Selected Samples mode can also be used to rerun only certain samples in a sample tray already processed in one of
the other two modes. Samples cannot be added to the sample tray once automatic processing is started in Selected
Samples mode. An accepted blank measurement is required as with all sample processing.
In Selected Samples mode, the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer will only look for samples in the sample positions selected for
analysis. All other samples in sample positions that are not selected will be ignored. If a sample position is selected
for processing but contains no sample tube, the sample position will be marked for review.
On the Selected Sample mode panel you can:
Return to the AS panel to select a different type of automated measurement by using the ‘Back’ function.
Define the samples to be measured:
o Click or tap the sample tray position icon where the selected sample is located.
o Select the appropriate measure mode.
o Define the sample ID.
o Define the patient ID.
o Save the changes by clicking or tapping the ‘Add’ button.
Remove selected samples by clicking or tapping the “Remove” button.
Swap between the tray and list views by using the ‘View list’ and View tray’ functions.
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Start the automated measurement by clicking or tapping on the ‘Start’ button on the GUI or by pressing the
physical Start button
Figure 42. Selected Sample Mode Panel
8.4.2.5 Interrupting Automatic Processing for Stat Samples
If one or more stat samples need to be processed, you can interrupt automatic processing to analyze the stat
sample(s) without having to wait until the entire sample tray has been processed. To interrupt automatic processing
for stat specimens, perform the following steps:
Click or tap the ‘Stop’ button. The ‘Abacus 5’ will prompt you to wait until the current sample is completed.
Acknowledge the message by clicking or tapping the ‘OK’ button.
Place the stat sample into the sample rotor.
As soon as the current measurement completes change to the manual measurement panel by clicking or
tapping the ‘Measure’ quick-link at the upper left corner of the screen.
Process the stat sample(s) in manual mode.
Return to the automated measurement panel by clicking or tapping the ‘AS’ quick link;
Restart the measurement by clicking or tapping the ‘Start’ button or by pressing the physical Start button.
The ‘Abacus 5’ will continue automated measurement from where it was interrupted.
8.4.2.6 Controlling the Autosampler
Detailed information about the Autosampler is available from the Autosampler info panel. You can also reset the
Autosampler from this panel. Double click or tap the Autosampler status in the bottom left corner of the screen to
view the Autosampler info panel. With this panel, you can command the Autosampler to repeat the last command, or
reset the Autosampler. You can also view Autosampler messages with detailed information about the last action or
sample tube processed.
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Figure 43. Control The Autosampler With Info Panel
The following is a list of messages from the Autosampler:
Home message:
o Response after a successful reset
o +HOME_XX.YY (The XX.YY is the software revision number)
VT zzzzzzz XY:
o Vacutainer® style tube detected
o Barcode content: “zzzzzzzzzzz”
o Tray position XY
MV zzzzzzz XY:
o Monovette® style tube detected
o Barcode content: “zzzzzzzzzzz”
o Tray position XY
+F : confirmation that the tube was moved from the mixing to the sampling position
The power-on message contains the serial number of the Autosampler unit.
During the reset cycle the Autosampler moves the Autosampler components to their ‘home position’. The mixing
stations moves to an upright position, the active rack moves back on to the sample tray, and the entire tray moves to
its home position.
8.5 Result Display
After the analysis is completed, the result screen displays all measured parameters, flags, histograms and scatter
plots. This information is automatically stored in the database, and stored result data can be retrieved at any time
from the database.
Histograms and scatter plots can be zoomed for closer inspection. Click or tap the histogram or scatter plot to
magnify it. Click or tap the ‘Close’ button on the upper right corner of the image to close it and return to the result
display.
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Figure 44. Results Display and Magnified Scatter Plot
Comparison of parameters to the normal range can be displayed numerically or graphically. See section 15.1 for
more information on display of normal range status. Other kinds of flags are also displayed in the result screen.
See section 1 for detailed information about the ‘Abacus 5’ result screen.
8.6 Printing Reports
Click or tap the Print icon at the top of the screen to send a report (or any displayed screen) to the external printer.
8.7 The Measurement Process
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer measures 24 parameters of whole human blood samples. Internal dilutions are made to
allow measurement of particles in the sample. Manual or automatic mode samples are processed in the same way.
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WHOLE BLOOD
SAMPLE
WHOLE BLOOD
SAMPLE
MIX DILUTION
IMPEDANCE
MEASUREMENT
+
LIGHT
ABSORBEANCE
DILUENT
LYSE
IMPEDANCE
MEASUREMENT
DILUENT
DILUENT
TEMPERATURE
CONTROLLED
INCUBATION
LYSE
LYSE2
OPTICAL
MEASUREMENT
OPTICAL
MEASUREMENT
TOTAL WBC, HGB RBC, PLT
4DIFF
BASO
Figure 45. ‘Abacus 5’ Measurement Process
When you present the sample tube and press the Start button, the ‘Abacus 5’ rotates the sample rotor and takes the
sample tube inside the analyzer. The piercing needle pierces the sample tube cap (if present) and aspirates
approximately 110 µL of primary blood sample. Blood sensors ensure that the primary blood sample is continuous
and free of major bubbles as it is moved to the shear valve. The shear valve separates the primary sample into
further samples of exact volumes of blood that are distributed to provide dilutions for the RBC, WBC, HGB and 5 Diff
population measurements. Lysing reagents are used to eliminate RBCs for dilutions that measure WBCs.
RBC/PLT and WBC are measured with impedance technology through 70 and 80 µm apertures respectively. Two
portions of the sample are used for determining a five subpopulation differential of WBC in two independent 4DIFF
and BASO measurements.
Sample results are displayed on the screen as the process is nearing completion. Results are stored in the internal
database and transmitted to an external LIS if configured to do so. The ‘Abacus 5’ performs a cleaning rinse of the
internal pneumatic components and prepares to measure the next sample.
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9 Result Interpretation
2 3 4
1
This chapter provides description about interpreting and understanding reports provided by the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer.
9.1 The Result Screen
Figure 46. ‘Abacus 5’ Result Screen
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer result screen is divided into 4 major areas:
1. Sample identification information: contains identifying information used to uniquely identify this sample’s
information.
2. Parameter information: contains parameter names, values, units, and normal range. Normal range, linearity,
and high blank flags are also displayed in this area.
3. Histograms and scatter diagrams: Visual elements that provide information about the measured population
dispersion. These are active elements that can be individually magnified by clicking or tapping.
4. Flags area: this area displays warning, interpretive, and morphological flags associated with this sample. If
flag display overflows its assigned space, an ellipsis will be displayed and the user can click on the information
icon to see a detailed display of flags.
9.2 Sample Identification Information
This part of the results screen contains information that uniquely identifies a particular sample run.
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Sample ID
The Sample ID is the ID entered by the operator from a keyboard or hand-held
barcode reader for a manually processed specimen. For automatically processed
specimens, the sample ID can be read from a sample tube barcode or entered into
a list for one of the automatic processing list modes. Sample IDs can be reused in
the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, but other identifying information together with the sample
ID uniquely identify the sample run.
Patient ID
This is the patient associated with this sample run. If none was entered or selected,
the default patient ID is set to 1.
Run Date/Time
This is the time and date that this sample was run.
Sample Mode
This is the sample mode selected for this specimen. Each sample mode applies a
different set of normal ranges to this sample run.
Table 9. Sample Identification Information
9.3 Parameter Information
The parameter information area of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer result screen lists information on 24 parameters.
Figure 47. Parameter Information Display
Each row shows the parameter name, value, flags (normal range, linearity range, and high blank), units, and normal
range. The units area displays the differential percentage for the five leukocyte subpopulations (NEU, LYM, MON, EO,
BAS).
Parameter names are listed with their standard abbreviation. Parameter values are always displayed according to
their selected unit. In case of error during sample evaluation, the software will display ‘E’ or” ---" signs to indicate the
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problems. Parameter values falling within the normal range are un-flagged and displayed with black text. Parameter
Normal range flags
Normal range flags are raised when a particular parameter is above or below
the normal range, which is defined for the patient profile currently in effect.
Flag
Meaning
Hierarchy
Color Code
-
Parameter is under normal range
Lowest
Blue
--
Parameter is under the half of the low
limit of normal range
Low
Blue
+
Parameter is over the normal range
Lowest
Red
++
Parameter is over twice the high limit of
normal range
Low
Red
Linearity Range Flag
Linearity range flags are raised when a particular parameter is above or below
the linearity range of the device.
Flag
Meaning
Hierarchy
Color Code
*
The related parameter is out of the
linearity range
High
N/A
**
The related parameter is out of the
display range
High
N/A
High blank flag
A high blank flag is raised when the blank measurement result of the
particular parameter was higher than the blank limit.
Flag
Meaning
Hierarchy
Color Code
!
The blank value of the related primary
parameter is high
Middle
N/A
values falling above the normal range are marked with a ‘+’ and displayed with red text, and values falling below the
normal range are marked with a ‘-‘, and displayed in blue text.
Normal range information can also be conveyed graphically as well as numerically. This setting can be changed in the
Main menu/Settings/Customize panel.
Figure 48. Graphical Normal Range Display
The flags displayed in the parameter information area are as follows:
Table 10. Normal Range Flags
Table 11. Linearity Range Flag
Table 12. High Blank Flag
9.3.1 Scatter Diagrams and Histograms
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer displays the results of the optical measurements in scatter diagram representation. Scatter
diagrams represent two-dimensional data. There are two scatter diagrams in the patient report: the 4-DIFF and BASO
scatter diagrams.
The 4-DIFF scatter diagram displays cells identified after the first lysing and optical measurement process. Due to the
measurement technology, cells are classified based on their optically detected properties: low and high angle
scattered light intensity. The optical detector can measure the intensity of the light scattered or diffracted by each
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cell. One portion of this scattered light is proportional to size of the cell; the other is proportional to the complexity
EO
NEU
LYM
MON
Cellular
Debris
BAS
Cellular
Debris
of the internal structures in the cell.
Cells in a leukocyte sub-population have similar light scattering properties, allowing them to be grouped together and
identified separately from other cell types. Different colors are used to identify various populations of blood cells.
Figure 49. Result Screen Scatter Diagrams
RBC and PLT impedance-based measurements are represented by histograms. These diagrams show the number of
cells on the Y axis and the cell size on the X axis. Smaller cells are displayed on the left side of the histogram, and
larger cells are displayed on the right side. The height of the histogram at a given size represents the number of cells
with that size. Greater histogram height indicates more cells.
Figure 50. Result Screen Histograms
Both the RBC and PLT histograms can be zoomed. Discriminators (thresholds) are displayed with red color. Platelets
are located on the leftmost part of the RBC histogram to the left of the red discriminator. The PLT histogram is a
magnified version of this region.
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9.3.2 Warnings
The warnings area of the result screen shows flags and messages related to the evaluation of the sample. Clicking or
tapping on the individual sections of the results screen displays a detailed warnings panel. Click or tap OK to close the
detailed warnings panel.
Figure 51. Warnings Section of Results Screen
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer provides Warning flags, Morphological flags, and Interpretive messages in the Warnings
panel. The following tables describe these flags and messages in detail. It also provides guidance on actions the
operator can take to correct the problem described by the flag.
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Warning flags
Warning flags are raised when the analyzer detects a problem in the analysis process that may cause incorrect or suspect results or the
parameters in the valid blank measurement was too high.
Flag
Meaning
Cause
Action
A
4 Diff Alarm
The 4DIFF populations are not clearly distinguishable on the
scatter diagram.
If other parameters predict a ‘normal’ sample then perform a
cleaning procedure and repeat the measurement.
If 4DIFF results reported then treat them as ‘reduced reliability’. If
not all the parameters reported or the sample is predicted as
pathological then perform a manual count on a stained smear.
B
WBC blank is high
WBC > WBC blank high limit
Check cleanliness of the reagents and the ‘Abacus 5’. Perform
cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Repeat blank measurement. See
chapter: 7.2.5:Pneumatics start and blank measurement
Treat WBC result as ‘reduced reliability’.
b
RBC blank is high
RBC > RBC blank high limit
Check cleanliness of the reagents and the ‘Abacus 5’. Perform
cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Repeat blank measurement See
chapter: 7.2.5 :Pneumatics start and blank measurement
Treat RBC result as ‘reduced reliability’.
C
WBC clogging
Drift in the probe voltage of the WBC capillary. The two main
reasons for this drift are the misconnected reagent and the
clogging of the capillary.
Check the reagent connections.
Perform a cleaning procedure! See chapter: maintenance.
Please repeat the measurement.
c
RBC/PLT clogging
Drift in the probe voltage of the RBC capillary. The two main
reasons for this drift are the misconnected reagent and the
clogging of the capillary.
Check the reagent connections.
Perform a cleaning procedure! See chapter: maintenance.
Please repeat the measurement.
D
MON - NEU alert
The MON and NEU populations are not clearly distinguishable on
the scatter-gram.
If other parameters predict a ‘normal’ sample then perform a
cleaning procedure and repeat the measurement.
If MON, MON%, NEU, NEU% results reported then treat them as
‘reduced reliability’. If not all the parameters reported or the
sample is predicted as pathological then perform a manual count
on a stained smear.
E
EO - NEU alert
The EO and NEU populations are not clearly distinguishable on
the scatter-gram.
If other parameters predict a ‘normal’ sample then perform a
cleaning procedure and repeat the measurement.
If EO, EO%, NEU, NEU% results reported then treat them as
‘reduced reliability’. If not all the parameters reported or the
sample is predicted as pathological then perform a manual count
on a stained smear.
F
Differential blank high
More than 100 cells detected during the ’4Diff-blank’ procedure.
Check cleanliness of the reagents and the ‘Abacus 5’. Perform
flow cell cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Repeat blank measurement.
See chapter: 6.1.5 :Pneumatics start and blank measurement
Treat 4 Diff results as ‘reduced reliability’.
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Warning flags
Warning flags are raised when the analyzer detects a problem in the analysis process that may cause incorrect or suspect results or the
parameters in the valid blank measurement was too high.
Flag
Meaning
Cause
Action
f
BASO blank high
More than 100 cells detected during the ’Baso-blank’ procedure.
Check cleanliness of the reagents and the ‘Abacus 5’. Perform
flow cell cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Repeat blank measurement.
See chapter: 6.1.5 :Pneumatics start and blank measurement
Treat BASO result as ‘reduced reliability’.
H
HGB blank high
Last accepted blank result: HGB ≥ 1.0 g/dl
Check cleanliness of the reagents and the ‘Abacus 5’. Perform
cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Repeat blank measurement. See
chapter: 7.2.5:Pneumatics start and blank measurement
Treat HGB result as ‘reduced reliability’.
l
PLT URI
The PLT-RBC gap is not clearly detectable on the PLT-RBC
histogram: small MCV, fractured RBC-s, aggregated PLT-s (cold
blood), side-effect of blood-transfusion.
Check the sample quality. Repeat the sample. If the problem
persists then perform a manual count on a stained smear.
M
Out of RBC linearity range
The RBC coincidence is over the limit: too high RBC count.
Check the sample homogeneity. Repeat the sample with manual
pre-dilution.
m
Close to RBC linearity range
The RBC coincidence is close to the limit: too high RBC count.
Treat RBC result as ‘reduced reliability’. Check the sample
homogeneity. Repeat the sample with manual pre-dilution.
O
High linearity range limit
exceeded
If any of RBC, PLT or WBC results are higher than high linearity
range limits.
Perform manual pre-dilution of sample and re-measure it.
o
Low linearity range limit
exceeded
If any of RBC, PLT or WBC results are lower than Low linearity
range limits.
None
p
PLT blank high
Last accepted blank result: PLT ≥ 15 x 103/µl
Check cleanliness of the reagents and the ‘Abacus 5’. Perform
cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Repeat blank measurement. See
chapter: 7.2.5:Pneumatics start and blank measurement
Treat PLT result as ‘reduced reliability’.
Q
MON - LYM alert
The MON and LYM populations are not clearly distinguishable on
the scatter-gram.
If other parameters predict a ‘normal’ sample then perform a
cleaning procedure and repeat the measurement.
If MON, MON%, LYM, LYM% results reported then treat them as
‘reduced reliability’. If not all the parameters reported or the
sample is predicted as pathological then perform a manual count
on a stained smear.
S
WBC measurement
statistics warning
The distribution of the WBC detection changes in time. It points
to clogging, non-homogeneous sample, cold sample, partial
coagulation of the sample.
Perform cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Check the homogeneity, the
temperature and the coagulation of the sample.
Repeat the sample.
s
RBC measurement statistics
warning
The distribution of the RBC detection changes in time. It points to
clogging, non-homogeneous sample, cold sample, partial
coagulation of the sample.
Perform cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Check the homogeneity, the
temperature and the coagulation of the sample.
Repeat the sample.
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Warning flags
Warning flags are raised when the analyzer detects a problem in the analysis process that may cause incorrect or suspect results or the
parameters in the valid blank measurement was too high.
Flag
Meaning
Cause
Action
T
Blood detector error
Blood Detector malfunction (received signals are all zeros or not
received signals)
Check BD and its connection to the LSDACQ card. Check sampling
tube connection to BD.
u
BASO high
The number of the BASO population is high or there are lyseresistant cells in the sample.
Repeat the measurement or perform a manual count on a stained
smear.
V
WBC vacuum warning
There is a (partial) clogging or leakage in the WBC part of
measurement system. A faulty/ worn-out pump can create
vacuum errors as well.
Perform cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Perform a self-test.
If vacuum problems persist then call for service.
v
RBC vacuum warning
There is a (partial) clogging or leakage in the RBC part of
measurement system. A faulty/ worn-out pump can create
vacuum errors as well.
Perform cleaning of the ’Abacus 5’. Perform a self-test.
If vacuum problems persist then call for service.
W
Sampling warning
Blood Detector detected a sample volume that was too small.
Check sample volume in sample vial. Check sampling process. Rerun sample.
X
Differential error
Not enough cells detected during the 4DIFF WBC differentiating.
Perform a flow cell cleaning procedure! Repeat the
measurement. If the problem persists then ask for service.
x
BASO error
Not enough cells detected during the BASO WBC differentiating.
If the total-WBC count is below 2 x 103/µl then perform a manual
count on a stained smear.
Perform a flow cell cleaning procedure! Repeat the
measurement. If the problem persists then ask for service.
Y
Differential percentage
error
Algorithm error while distinguishing the WBC-s in the 4DIFF
procedure.
Repeat the measurement. If the problem persists on a given
sample then perform a manual count on a stained smear.
y
BASO percentage error
Algorithm error while distinguishing the WBC-s in the BASO
procedure.
Repeat the measurement. If the problem persists on a given
sample then perform a manual count on a stained smear.
Z
WBC noise high
During WBC count there is too much (more than 10% of the total)
detected pulse on the first 10 channel of the 255 channel full
range. This may be caused by lyse resistant RBC, electronic noise,
contaminated WBC chamber or contaminated reagents.
Perform Clean process. Perform Hard Clean process.
Table 13. Warning Flags
Interpretive flag
Interpretive flags infer the presence of distributional abnormalities such as leukocytosis.
Flag
Meaning
Leukopenia
WBC --
Leukocytosis
WBC + or WBC ++
Neutropenia
NEU --
Neutrocytosis
NEU ++
Lymphopenia
LYM --
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Interpretive flag
Interpretive flags infer the presence of distributional abnormalities such as leukocytosis.
Flag
Meaning
Lymphocytosis
LYM ++
Monocytosis
MON ++
Eosinophilia
EOS ++
Basophilia
BASO ++
Anemia
RBC - or RBC --
Polycythemia
RBC + or RBC ++
Microcytic RBC
MCV - or MCV --
Macrocytic RBC
MCV + or MCV ++
Hypochromic
MCHC - or MCHC --
Hyperchromic
MCHC + or MCHC ++
Anisocytosis
RDW + or RDW ++
Thrombocytopenia
PLT --
Thrombocytosis
PLT + or PLT ++
Microcytic PLT
MPV - or MPV --
Macrocytic PLT
MPV + or MPV ++
Table 14. Interpretive Flags
Morphological flag
Morphological flags are raised when the presence of morphologically abnormal cell types such as immature granulocytes are
suspected.
Flag
Meaning
Cause
Action
G
Immature granulocytes
The count in the region of (low - high angle scatter of Abacus 5)
where the Immature granulocyte typically located is > 3% of the
total WBC count.
Perform a manual count on a stained smear.
L
Atypical lymphocytes
The count in the region of (low - high angle scatter of Abacus 5)
where the atypical lymphocytes typically located is > 1% of the
total WBC count.
Perform a manual count on a stained smear
Table 15. Morphological Flags
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10 Database Functions
The ‘Abacus 5’ database stores all measured data including sample results, QC, and patient data. Each sample
result stored includes the complete parameter list, histograms, flags, and identifying data. The ‘Abacus 5’ has a
data capacity of up to 100,000 total records.
To activate Database panel, clicking or tapping the Database quick link on the top of the screen will take you to
the database view from any screen.
Figure 52. Accessing the Database
The database can be accessed at any time, even when processing samples in the background. You can return to
the measurement panel anytime to view ongoing sample measurements.
10.1 Database Overview
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer database provides a powerful, easy-to-use method of storing, accessing, and managing
patient and sample result information. The database of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is capable of storing up to 100,000
measurement, control and patient records.
The database presents information in a table view of rows and columns. Each row in the database panel
represents one sample measurement. Rows are also called ‘records.’ Each column in the database consists or
sample identification information or measurement parameter results.
The database information can be scrolled using navigation buttons along the right and the bottom of the
database view, or by a moving a vertical scroll bar. Database records can be selected individually or in groups.
Detailed result views are available for selected database records. Selected records can be printed, sent to an LIS
and exported into a tab file. Various sort options are provided for quickly finding results.
Database records can be exported for storage and backup. Exported database information can be later imported
for review. Imported records do not become part of your ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer’s database. They are only imported
for viewing, but can be sorted, selected, and managed the same way as with regular data the stored inside the
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer database.
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The ‘Abacus 5’ database displays two numerical counters separated by a slash under the left side of the database
Sample ID
Sample ID entered by the operator or read from a sample tube barcode label
Patient
Identifier that associates a result record with a patient records
Analysis Time
Time and date this sample tube was analyzed
Result ID
Unique sequential identifier assigned by the ‘Abacus 5’ to each records
2 2 3 3 4 4 2
2 3 3
4 4 1
table. The left number is the number of selected rows, and the right number is the total number of rows in the
database.
10.2 Scrolling the Database View
The limited size of the interactive database display acts like a viewport into the large amount of information
inside your database. You can scroll the database view to bring desired information into view. The ‘Abacus 5’
analyzer provides several powerful and easy-to-use scrolling methods. The numbered items below match the
items in Figure 53 below.
1. The scrollbar: tapping, holding and moving the scrollbar labeled ‘1’ with the tip of your finger on the
touch screen display will quickly scroll information in the vertical direction. Clicking and dragging with an
optional external mouse will achieve the same effect.
2. Tapping or clicking the buttons labeled ‘2’ will advance the display by one line or one column.
3. Tapping or clicking the buttons labeled ‘3’ will advance the display by one page of information at one
time.
4. Tapping or clicking the buttons labeled ‘4’ will advance the display to the first or last item in the list.
Figure 53. Scrolling and Selecting
10.3 Sorting Database Information
The database is sorted by Result ID by default. Clicking or tapping the following database column headings
changes the sort order of the database records:
Table 16. Database Sort Criteria
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Clicking or tapping the same column heading again changes the ascending or descending order of values in the
column.
10.4 Manual Selection of Database Records
Clicking or tapping on a row in the database display single-selects a row. Clicking or tapping it again de-selects the
row. Selecting another row will de-select previously selected rows in single selection. Selected rows are
highlighted with white text on a black background.
Checking the ‘Multiselect’ check box below the left side of the database table allows the selection of multiple
rows. Tapping or clicking once selects a row, but previous selections remain selected unless you click or tap it
again to de-select it. Un-checking the Multiselect check box will de-select all selected records.
Figure 54. Multiselect and Multiple Selection
Multiple selections are useful for viewing, managing and quickly viewing statistics of only a few selected records.
10.5 Automatic Selection of Database Records
When the total number of records in a database becomes very large, manual selection of records can become
difficult. The ‘Select by’ function in the Manage records panel provides the means to select a group of records
automatically according to their identifying information. See section 10.8.1 for more information on the Select by
database function.
10.6 Viewing Detailed Results
Multiple selection is also useful for viewing the detailed results of a few records rather than navigating through
the database. After selecting several records, clicking or tapping the ‘Details’ button on the database panel will
display the detailed results for the first record in the selection. Clicking or tapping the ‘Up’ or ‘Down’ buttons on
the details screen displays the details of the next record in the selection.
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10.7 Statistics
After selecting a group of records, click or tap the ‘Statistics’ button on the database panel to view the
coefficients of variation (CV) associated with each of the 24 parameters. This function is useful to quickly
measure the imprecision of multiple runs of the same sample.
10.8 Managing Database Records
‘Abacus 5’ analyzer database management functions are accessed by clicking or tapping the ‘Manage records’
button to bring up the Manage records panel.
Figure 55. Manage Records Panel
All data manipulation actions that change the data stored in the ‘Abacus 5’ database are logged in the ‘Abacus 5’
log. If the multi-user mode is enabled, the name of the operator logged on at the time the data manipulation
occurs will also be stored in the log.
10.8.1 Select By
Click or tap the ‘Select by’ button on the Manage Records panel to display the Select by panel. The Select by
panel allows you to select a group of records with dates and Result IDs that match criteria entered into the panel.
Figure 56. Select By Panel
The Select by panel provides various ways to select records. Only one of the four selection methods can be
chosen.
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Select day
Clicking or tapping the ‘Change’ button displays a virtual on-screen date
keyboard. All records analyzed on the date entered will be selected.
Select interval
The two ‘Change’ buttons allow entry of a start and end date. All records on
the start date, the end date, and all dates in between will be selected.
Select all
All records in the database will be selected.
Select Result ID
Entering one Result ID will select a record with the same Result ID. Entering
two Result IDs will select a range of records including the start and end Result
IDs.
Clicking or tapping the ‘Run select’ will create a multiple selection of all database records that match the criteria
(if any). The ‘Cancel’ button returns to the database view and the current selection is not changed.
10.8.2 Importing
Clicking or tapping the ‘Import’ button displays a blank, modified version of the database panel.
Figure 57. Database Importing Panel
The database importing panel provides the following options:
The ‘Import’ button brings up a panel to select previously exported database record files to load and
view.
‘Select by’ performs the select by database function to select a group of imported records according to
criteria entered by the operator.
‘Details’ views the detailed result information for all or a selection of imported records.
‘Clear’ removes selected records from the imported records table, but does not permanently remove the
cleared records from the stored database file.
‘Back’ ends viewing of imported database information and returns to the ‘Abacus 5’ stored database.
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10.8.3 Export
The database export panel allows you to select a directory location to store records in a selection for backup or
reference purposes. To back up all records in the database, first use the select by function to select all records in
the database and export them using the export function.
Clicking or tapping the ‘Export’ button displays the database export panel.
Figure 58. Directory Panel for Data Storage
Introduce a USB storage device (USB hard drive, memory stick, etc.) into an available USB port on the back panel
of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Select the directory to store the exported data and press the ‘Ok’ button to start the
export.
The file format of exported data is an internal format, and can only be read and interpreted by the ‘Abacus 5’
analyzer using the Import function. Each database record is stored as an individual file with an ‘.rp’ extension.
10.8.4 Send to LIS
The ‘Send to LIS’ button immediately transmits selected database records to the external LIS according to your LIS
settings.
10.8.5 Save Tab File
The Save tab file function is used to archive database data to a tab separated text file. The ‘Save tab file’ button
displays a directory panel like Figure 58, except that the file saved in the selected location is a tab separated text
file rather than a database backup file. Tab separated text files can be loaded and viewed by a text editor or
imported into spreadsheet software.
The filename created by the Save tab file function is generated automatically in the following format:
TAB_YYYYMMDDHHMMSS.txt with the year, month, day, hour, minute, and second of the time when the
operation started.
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To archive database data using this function, insert a USB data storage device to one of the USB inputs on the
back panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Select the file location of your USB data storage device and click or tap the
‘OK’ button to begin the export.
See section 0 for detailed information on the format of the tab separated text file.
10.8.6 Save Raw Data
The save raw data function saves the raw data information associated with a selection of database records. Raw
data files are only suitable for internal use by Diatron staff. Your service engineer may ask you to save raw data
files to help diagnose a service issue.
A confirmation password is required to save raw data. The default factory-set confirmation password is 555. This
password can be changed only by a Diatron certified service engineer.
Insert a USB data storage device to one of the USB inputs on the back panel of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer. Click or
tap the ‘Save raw data’ button on the Manage records panel, then enter the correct confirmation password. Click
or tap the ‘Ok’ button to display a directory panel like Figure 58. Select the file location of your USB data storage
device and click or tap the ‘OK’ button to begin saving raw data.
10.8.7 Delete
The Delete function is used to delete records from a selection permanently from the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer
database. To permanently delete records, select a group of records and click or tap the ‘Delete’ button on the
Manage records panel.
To prevent accidental deletion of data, the ‘Abacus 5’ requests the same confirmation password used in the save
raw data function. After entering the correct password and clicking or tapping the ‘Ok’ button, the records will be
permanently deleted.
The password to allow deleting records is: 555.
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11 Calibration
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer must be calibrated in order to provide correct, reliable results. Calibration should be done
at the following times:
At initial installation
After replacing any component critical to the dilution or measurement process
Any time quality control shows a systematic error or is outside predefined limits
At periodic time intervals determined by laboratory regulations
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer calibration process consists of running a commercial calibrator material or a human
whole blood sample with known parameter values multiple times. The known parameter values and the average
values of multiple runs are used to calculate calibration factors. The new calibration factors take effect once they
are accepted by the operator.
If you are using a human whole blood as a calibrator, the calibration target values must be measured on a
reference analyzer according to applicable regulations, standards, or laboratory procedures.
An automated calibration procedure is provided that guides the operator through the calibration process and
performs the calibration factor calculation. Calibration factors can also be modified directly without running a
calibration procedure. Only the parameters that are traceable to reference methods are calibrated: WBC, RBC,
PLT, HGB, MCV, and MPV.
To view the calibration functions of the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer, select the ‘Calibration’ icon on the main menu to
display the calibration panel. The Calibration panel displays an option to calibrate the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer or to
view prior calibrations.
Figure 59. Calibration Options
11.1 Calibrating the ‘Abacus 5’
Selecting the ‘Calibrate’ option on the calibration options panel displays the calibration panel.
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Commercial calibrator material and sample tubes should be handled as a potentially
biohazardous material. All applicable laws, regulations, and laboratory practices should be
followed in the handling and disposal of calibrator materials.
Figure 60. Calibration Panel and Calibration Run Result Panel
The limits of the calibration target values are linked to the normal range of the ‘Human’ sample mode.
To perform the automated calibration procedure, ensure that the ‘Abacus 5’ pneumatic system is started up and
that a valid blank measurement has been accepted. Perform the following steps:
Prepare a sample tube with commercial calibrator material or human whole blood. Ensure that there is
sufficient sample volume for three or seven consecutive runs.
Place the calibrator sample tube in the sample rotor.
Select ‘Three measures’ or ‘Seven measures’ according to your laboratory’s standard practices.
Select ‘Calibrator’ for a commercial calibrator material or ‘Human’ for whole human blood calibration.
Enter the calibration target values provided with your commercial calibrator material or the previously
determined parameter values for human blood calibration.
Click or tap the ‘Next’ button to begin the calibration process.
The analyzer displays a blank result screen and begins sample measurement of the calibration material.
Wait for the screen to be populated with results when sample measurement is complete.
Click or tap the ‘Accept’ button if the measurement run is acceptable.
Click or tap the ‘Start next’ button to begin the next calibration run. Selecting ‘Start next’ without
accepting a calibration run discards the run. Selecting ‘Abort’ will abort the entire calibration procedure
and discards all calibration results.
The calibration procedure ends when three or seven accepted calibration runs are completed. The
calibration factors are calculated and presented in the calibrator factor. The previous calibration factors
and the coefficient of variation (CV) of the sample runs for each parameter are also displayed.
Select ‘Accept’ to replace the current calibration factors with the accepted factors. Selecting ‘Discard’
eliminates the entire calibration process.
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Figure 61. Calibration Factor Panel
The automatic calibration process can be skipped by selecting the ‘Manual’ calibration mode on the calibration
panel and clicking or tapping the ‘Next’ button proceeds directly to the calibration factor panel for manual entry
of calibration values. Manually entered calibration values can be accepted in the same way as calculated factors
from calibrator sample runs, and are treated by the ‘Abacus 5’ in the same way.
11.1.1 View Calibrations
The view calibrations feature is helpful for reviewing the calibration history for the analyzer. Increasing or
decreasing calibration value trends over time may indicate a problem that requires service intervention.
To view the calibration history click or tap the ‘View calibration’ function on the calibration panel. The calibration
history is presented in a table view that can be navigated in the same way as the database panel.
Any calibration can be deleted. Deleting the last calibration causes the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer to revert to the last
accepted calibration.
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Figure 62. View Calibration Panel
To delete a calibration, click or tap the ‘Delete’ button. The system will ask you for a confirmation password to
avoid accidental deletion of calibration data. The confirmation password is set at the factory to 555, and can be
changed by your Diatron certified service engineer.
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12 Quality Control
Control materials must be used before their expiration date. Always observe the control
manufacturer’s instructions for storage and use. Control materials must be well mixed
before use.
Daily use of quality control (QC) ensures that the ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer is operating optimally. Stable recovery of
standard QC material parameters assures the operator that the ‘Abacus 5’ is operating consistently on a day-today basis and is functioning correctly.
By analyzing control materials on a regular basis, day-to-day reproducibility and general condition of the analyzer
can be monitored. Target values and acceptable (tolerance) ranges for each parameter can be specified for an
unlimited number of QC materials.
Diatron recommends the use of Diacon 5 controls from Diatron.
The ‘Abacus 5’ analyzer does not limit the number of QC material lots or the number of QC measurement runs
that are stored in the control database. Each QC measurement run is saved to the selected QC material lot.
QC lots can be commercial control materials or a whole human blood sample whose parameter values and ranges
are determined by other means. The advantage of a commercial control material is that is shelf life is much
longer than human blood, allowing control of the analyzer for a longer period of time.
Controls in the ‘Abacus 5’ are processed in manual mode only. To access the QC panel, select the ‘QC’ icon on the
main menu.
Figure 63. QC Panel
12.1 Set QC Reference
Before taking any QC measurements, target values and acceptable ranges must be specified for a QC lot of
control material. Click or tap the ‘Set QC reference’ button to display the Set QC panel.
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