No part of this manual or the products it describes may be reproduced by any means in any form
without prior consent in writing from Siemens.
Hematek is a trademark of Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics.
Origin: United States
The information in this manual was correct at the time of printing. However, Siemens
continues to improve products and reserves the right to change specifications, equipment, and
maintenance procedures at any time without notice.
If the Hematek system is used in a manner not specified by Siemens, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired. See warning and hazard statements.
Section 8: Service, Supplies, and Replacement Parts .......................................... 8-3
Contents
When to Call for Service...................................................................................................................8-3
For Service .........................................................................................................................................8-3
Disposal of System Waste and Supplies ..................................................................................1-14
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—1
Page 1—2, Section 1: Introduction
Section 1: Introduction
General Description and Intended Use
The Hematek
automated, bench-top instrument designed specifically for the staining of hematology
slides for in vitro diagnostic use. This self-contained precision instrument accepts,
conveys, fixes, stains, and delivers dry blood smear preparations that are spread on
standard thickness 25-mm x 75-mm or 1” x 3” glass slides. The slides are stained at the
rate of one slide per minute.
Two conveyor spirals move the slides along the platen. Three sensing switches are
triggered sequentially as the slide moves along the platen. Each switch activates its
respective solution pump, which meters and delivers the stain, buffer, or rinse into the
capillary space between the slide and platen. After staining and rinsing have been
accomplished, the slide is dried by a flow of air from a low velocity blower and it is then
deposited in a slide drawer.
Optimal results with the Hematek Slide Stainer are obtained by using one of the Hematek
Stain Paks. The Stain Pak consists of one bottle each of stain, buffer, and rinse solutions,
and is designed for easy installation and removal from the instrument.
NOTE:
Only Hematek Stain Paks should be used with the Hematek Slide Stainer. Use of other
stain packs or solutions may void the warranty.
®
Slide Stainer, shown inFigure 1-1. Hematek Slide Stainer is a fully
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—3
Theory of Operation
The Hematek Slide Stainer is designed to produce stained slides of consistent quality in a
continuous process. This is accomplished by having a fixed length of time in each of the
three phases of stain, buffer, and rinse, as well as a predetermined ratio of stain-to-buffer
volumes in the buffer phase.
A properly stained slide is the result of an interactive process involving the pump
volumes, the mixing process, and the stain-to-buffer ratio. A minimum ratio of 1:2 is
recommended; however, if the platen is filling properly, good mixing is occurring, and the
stained slides are acceptable under the microscope, the stain-to-buffer ratio should not be
adjusted.
Figure 1-1. Hematek Slide Stainer
Page 1—4, Section 1: Introduction
Physical Characteristics
Figure 1-2. Circular Bubble Level and Leveling Feet, shows the physical characteristics of
the Hematek Slide Stainer, including the circular bubble level and the leveling feet.
Figure 1-2. Circular Bubble Level and Leveling Feet
1Circular Bubble Level
2Leveling Feet
Circular Bubble Level
CAUTION
Do not move the circular bubble level from its location directly behind the operating lever.
Proper leveling is essential for optimal mixing of the stain and buffer.
The circular bubble level is a water bubble gauge with an inscribed circle that can be
observed through the clear plastic lid of the instrument. The level is located on the
instrument panel to the left of the reagent pumps, directly behind the operating lever. It is
used to ensure the Slide Stainer is in a level position.
Levelers
The feet under the front corners of the instrument act as levelers and may be adjusted to
raise or lower the instrument to a level position. Observe the circular bubble level to verify
that the feet have been properly adjusted and the instrument is level.
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—5
Slide Transport System
Figure 1-3. Slide Transport System and Figure 1-4. Slide Transport and Staining System
show the slide transport system, including the conveyor spirals, the platen, the platen
guide rails, and the slide drawer.
The conveyor spirals are two parallel spirals with opposing grooves. Slides to be stained
are fitted separately into the opposing grooves, which move the slides across the staining
surface. When loading slides onto the instrument, the side covered by the blood smear is
faced to the left of the operator, with the feathered edge to the back of the instrument.
Slides are moved by the conveyor spirals side by side, from right to left, first at the vertical
plane, then at the horizontal plane with the blood smear facing downward toward the
platen.
Page 1—6, Section 1: Introduction
Platen
The platen spans the entire front of the instrument, between the conveyor spirals. The
outside ridges of the platen are elevated guide rails, which give support to the slides as
they are moved along the platen. It is a precision-machined component made from a highperformance plastic polymer material and is designed specifically for two main functions:
1. It maintains the exact volumes of the required solutions within a capillary space
between the platen and the slide.
2. It provides a mixing system for the stain and buffer.
The platen also provides the necessary time interval after the rinsing step for proper drying
of the slides before they are deposited in the slide drawer. A trough around the perimeter
of the platen allows for drainage of used solutions into the waste tank below.
Slide Drying System
The dryer is a blower type fan that runs continuously when the instrument is in operation.
The airflow serves to cool the mechanical components inside the Slide Stainer, as well as
to dry the slides.
Slide Drawer
The slide drawer is located below the left end of the platen. It receives the slides as they
drop from the platen after being stained, rinsed, and dried. The drawer will hold 100
slides. See Figure 1-4. Slide Transport and Staining System .
Waste Tank
The waste tank is located underneath the platen and collects used and overflow staining
solutions. The waste tank should be emptied and rinsed once each day and whenever a
new Stain Pak is installed. Refer to Section 5: Maintenance for more information.
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—7
Staining System
Figure 1-4. Slide Transport and Staining System , Figure 1-5. Staining Systems, and Figure
1-6. Sensing Switches, illustrate the staining system, including the volume control panel,
pump assemblies, pump cap, pump arm, pump tubing, and cannula.
Figure 1-4. Slide Transport and Staining System
1Slide Drawer
2Waste Tank
3Volume Control Panel
Volume Control Panel
The volume control panel tips out from the right front corner of the instrument and
contains three graduated adjustment knobs. The volume of reagent being delivered can be
adjusted by rotating the respective control dial clockwise to increase the volume or
counterclockwise to decrease the volume.
Solution Pumps
The instrument has three pump assemblies, one for each solution. Each assembly consists
of a pump motor, four rollers that are attached to the underside of a pump cap, and a pump
arm. All work together to maintain a constant metering speed to provide consistent
volumes of stain, buffer, and rinse, even though the line voltage may fluctuate. The
amount of solution pumped is electronically adjusted through the use of the volume
control knobs.
Page 1—8, Section 1: Introduction
Figure 1-5. Staining Systems
1Pump Assemblies
2Pump Cap
3Pump Arm
4Pump Tubing
5Cannula
Pump Tubing and Cannulas
CAUTION
Use only the Hematek Pump Tube Set with the Hematek Slide Stainer. Use of other tubing
may result in incorrect measurement and improper staining, buffering, and rinsing.
The pump tubing is provided as a set of three separate pieces of tubing. Notice that each
pump tube is identified with a number and symbol, which corresponds to the reagent
carried by the tubing:
1 for stain
•
2 for buffer
•
•
3 for rinse
Each tube has a clear plastic cuff that fits snugly up to the pump arm and holds the tube in
position without slippage. The tubing is a special type of rubber that is resistant to
leaching and brittleness. The special diameters and lengths of the tubing assure precise
measurement of solutions. Each pump tube is connected to a cannula that is inserted into
the appropriate bottle in the Stain Pak. Three cannulas are provided with the Hematek
Slide Stainer. With proper routine cleaning, the cannulas can be used for an extended
period of time.
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—9
Sensing Switches
The sensing switches are three finger-like devices located just above the back edge of the
platen. When contacted, the respective sensing switch is activated, which tells the
instrument that a slide is in position for the pump to run. After a specific time delay, the
pumping motor for the specific reagent is activated. The solution pumps are set so that
precise volumes of stain, buffer, and rinse are delivered to their respective areas on the
platen. Each reagent is delivered through its respective cannula and tubing network to the
platen orifice. The capillary space between the slide and the platen is then filled with the
measured volume of reagent.
Figure 1-6. Sensing Switches
1Sensing Switches
Page 1—10, Section 1: Introduction
Electrical System
Figure 1-7. Electrical System and Figure 1-8. Electrical System–Rear of Instrument
illustrate the components of the electrical system.
Figure 1-7. Electrical System
1Operating Lever
2Power Light
3Low Stain Light
Operating Lever
The operating lever is a multiple function, bar-shaped lever located at the front left side of
the instrument, near the top. The three positions of the lever are labeled and their related
functions are as follows:
UNLOCK releases the pressure of the reagent pump arms against the pump tubing.
•
LOCK locks the reagent pump arms into their proper position against the pump tubing.
•
•
PRIME provides an override control to allow the pumps to run continuously so the tubes
can be primed with solutions and cleared of air bubbles. The lever must be held
continuously in the
LOCK position.
PRIME position. When released, it returns automatically to the
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—11
POWER Light
The green POWER light is located at the right side of the instrument near the top. When
the instrument is turned on, the light illuminates.
LOW STAIN Light
The yellow LOW STAIN light is to the left of the POWER light. It is off under usual
operating conditions; however, when the Hematek Stain Pak contains sufficient reagents
to stain only about 20 slides, a weight-sensing device activates the circuit and illuminates
the light. The Stain Pak should be replaced at this time.
Power Module
The power module is located on the rear of the instrument; on one side of the module is
the panel that contains the line cord receptacle, fuse, and power switch. The power module
converts the line current coming into the instrument to 12 volts DC, which is the voltage
within the instrument.
The line cord connects into the line cord receptacle, which is located at the top of the panel
on the power module.
Page 1—12, Section 1: Introduction
Fuse Holder
The fuse holder, in the center of the panel, holds the fuse that protects against serious
electrical overload. A spare fuse is also located in the fuse holder.
ON / OFF Switch
The ON / OFF Switch is located at the bottom of the panel and controls all power to the
instrument.
Specifications
Power Requirements100 - 230 VAC + 10%, 50/60 Hz, 0.75
Amps
Fuse Rating 250 Volt, 1.0 Amps, 5mm x 20mm, Type T
Line Leakage Current<5 milliamperes
Testing protocol and allowable limits as
specified by the safety standards for
laboratory equipment outlined in UL 1262
and CSA 22.2 No. 151.
DimensionsDepth - 43.4 cm (17.1 in)
Width - 47.0 cm (18.5 in)
Height - 19.0 cm (7.5 in)
Weight17.7 kg (39 lbs)
ThroughputStains 1 slide per minute
Section 1: Introduction, Page 1—13
Disposal of System Waste and Supplies
Laws and regulations enacted to protect the environment and to encourage resource
conservation require the disposal of hazardous and biohazardous wastes in a specified
manner. Some of the wastes from the Hematek Slide Stainer can be classified as hazardous
or biohazardous wastes. It is essential that the laboratory take appropriate steps to
determine the laws and regulations applicable to their disposal and to effect compliance. If
it is necessary to sample instrument wastes and effluent in order to evaluate compliance
with applicable regulations, the laboratory should contact a local licensed biohazardous
waste disposal firm for assistance.
The principal wastes associated with the use of the Hematek Slide Stainer are pump and
underplaten tubing, effluents from the staining operation, and the container for stain,
buffer, and rinse.
Slides with human specimens, control materials, and all reagents, should also be handled
and disposed of in accordance with the prevailing regulations and guidelines of agencies
with jurisdiction over the laboratory. Refer to the product label and to Material Safety
Data Sheets for details concerning any special precautions related to the handling of
Hematek Stain Pak containers. Material Safety Data Sheets are available from Siemens.
BIOHAZARD
Wear personal protective equipment. Use universal precautions. Refer to Appendix A,
page A-1 for recommended precautions when working with biohazardous materials.
This section provides detailed installation and setup instructions for the Hematek Slide
Stainer. The installation steps must be followed correctly to ensure proper installation,
operation, and service. Read this Operator’s Guide carefully before attempting to operate
the instrument. Follow all instructions carefully.
The Hematek Slide Stainer is a precision instrument and must be handled accordingly.
Rough handling or dropping of the instrument will disturb or damage internal
components. Always handle the instrument with care.
Environmental Factors
As with all sensitive electronic instruments, prolonged exposure to excessive humidity
and temperature should be avoided. Temperature should be held relatively constant to
obtain the highest degree of operating stability. The ambient temperature range for
operating the instrument is 18ºC to 30ºC (64ºF to 86ºF). The ambient operating humidity
range is 20% to 85% relative humidity.
Place the instrument in a well-ventilated area, avoiding exposure to corrosive vapors or
temperature extremes. Be sure it is near a power source that meets the electrical
requirements (voltage) specified on the rating label located on the rear of the instrument.
Avoid proximity to open windows, sinks, ovens, hot plates, open burners, radiators, and
dry ice baths. The instrument should not be used in an explosive atmosphere.
Section 2: Installation, Page 2—3
Unpacking
Before opening the shipping carton, inspect it for visible signs of damage. Use the
following steps to unpack the instrument.
1. Carefully remove the Hematek instrument and supplies from the shipping carton.
The following items are provided with the instrument:
• Hematek pump tube set
• Hematek cannula set
• operating manual
• line cord
• warranty card - for use by US customers only
• FedEx PRP label - for use by US customers only
2. If the instrument shows any visible signs of damage, immediately file a complaint
with the carrier.
3. Retain the shipping carton for further use. If the instrument ever needs to be shipped,
the shipping carton will afford the best protection.
4. After the instrument has been unpacked, place it on a firm, level work surface in the
designated work are by lifting the instrument by its frame.
Instrument Setup
Complete the following procedures to ensure proper installation and performance of your
Slide Stainer.
Level the Instrument
CAUTION
Do not move the circular bubble level from its location directly behind the operating lever.
Proper leveling is essential for optimal mixing of the stain and buffer.
1. Raise the hinged lid of the instrument and locate the circular bubble level.
The circular bubble level is located on the instrument panel to the left of the reagent
pumps, directly behind the operating lever.
Page 2—4, Section 2: Installation
2. Adjust the two feet located under the front corners of the instrument to raise or lower
the instrument to a level position.
Figure 2-1. Leveling the Instrument
3. Observe the circular bubble level to indicate when the feet have been properly
adjusted and the instrument is level. The bubble in the level should be centered within
the inscribed circle.
NOTE:
If necessary, make a final leveling check and adjustment by watching the flow of the waste
fluids during staining. Fluids should flow evenly to the drain hole at the left-front corner
of the waste trough.
Plug the Line Cord into an Outlet
CAUTION
Be sure the outlet supplies the proper voltage for your instrument. Refer to the rating label
located on the rear of the instrument to determine the proper voltage rating
Plug the appropriate end of the line cord into the instrument and the other end into an
appropriately grounded AC electrical outlet.
Performance Check (Prior to Installing Tubing)
1. Turn the instrument on by pressing the ON / OFF switch, located on the left side of the
power module at the rear of the instrument, to the
The green
revolves.
2. Inspect the slide dryer area for noticeable airflow.
3. Place five blank slides into the grooves on the right side of the conveyor spirals.
Section 2: Installation, Page 2—5
POWER light illuminates, the fan starts, and the conveyor spirals slowly
ON position.
Be sure the slides are positioned in opposing slots, parallel to the inscribed lines on the
platen.
4. Allow the slides to automatically feed onto the platen.
5. As the slides move down the platen, make sure the leading edge of the slides contact
and activate each of the three sensing switch fingers, located along the back wall of
the platen above the platen trough.
As each switch is activated, the appropriate pump activates and you are able to
observe the pump cap rotating.
6. If the instrument functions properly in these steps, continue with the instrument setup
procedures.
7. If a problem occurred, contact the your local technical support provider or distributor.
Refer to Section 8: Service, Supplies, and Replacement Parts for more information.
Install the Pump Tubing
1. Remove the three cannulas and pump tube sets from their packaging.
Notice that each pump tube is identified with a number, which corresponds to the
reagent carried by the tubing:
• 1 for stain
• 2 for buffer
• 3 for rinse
2. Attach the labeled end of each pump tube to a cannula.
Figure 2-2. Attaching Pump Tubing to Cannula
Page 2—6, Section 2: Installation
3. Push the operating lever down to the UNLOCK position.
4. Extend each new tube to its respective pump (in numerical order from right to left)
and thread the end of the tubing into the hole in the pump arm.
5. Push the thumb tab on the pump arm to the extreme left and push the tubing through
until the plastic cuff is flush against the pump arm.
Figure 2-3. Threading Tubing through Pump Assembly
NOTE:
If you encounter difficulty in threading the tubing through the pump housing, lift the
operating lever to
PRIME for just a few seconds. This will cause the rollers inside the
pump housing to rotate slightly and relieve the interference. Then return the operating
lever to the
UNLOCK position.
6. Release the pump arm.
7. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the other two pumps.
99E44889 Rev. DSection 2: Installation, Page 2—7
8. Connect each tube to its proper recessed nipple, located on the backside of the circuit
board housing.
9. Be sure that at least 7 mm (0.25 in.) of tubing is connected to the nipple for a secure
connection.
Figure 2-4. Attaching Pump Tubing to Nipple
NOTE:
If it is difficult to connect the tube to its nipple, use forceps or hemostats to grasp and
attach the tubing.
CAUTION
Take care to not damage the tubing when using forceps or hemostats.
Page 2—8, Section 2: Installation
Install the Stain Pak
1. Remove the perforated tabs from the Hematek Stain Pak. Insert the carton, with the
STAIN bottle to the right, into the well at the rear of the instrument.
2. Make sure the carton is all the way down and resting on the tray at the bottom of the
well. The carton should be level when properly installed.
Figure 2-5. Installing the Stain Pak
3. Insert the appropriate cannula into its respective bottle by puncturing the center of the
indentation on the bottle.
Figure 2-6. Installing Cannula into Stain Pak Bottle
Section 2: Installation, Page 2—9
4. Remove the cannula, turn it 1/4 turn, and insert it again into the same puncture.
The double puncture creates a slightly larger hole for venting.
NOTE:
If additional venting is desired, a second hole can be made in the top of the bottle, near the
indentation. A 20-gauge needle can be placed into the hole, if needed.
5. Push the cannula down until the guard at the top touches the plastic container.
6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 for each bottle.
Inspect Waste Tank and Slide Drawer
Inspect the waste tank and slide drawer for proper positioning below the platen. Each
should be pushed completely into its respective cavity in the front of the instrument so it is
flush with the control panel on the right front corner.
Familiarize Yourself with the Instrument
Before beginning normal instrument use, carefully review Section 3: Operating
Instructions, and Section 5: Maintenance, to become familiar with operating techniques
and instrument cleaning requirements.
Check Pump Volumes
Check the pump volumes and adjust them if necessary by following the procedures in
Pump Volume Adjustment on page 6-14 and Volume and Ratio Determination on page 6-
17. Do this before staining any patient slides for clinical evaluations.
Page 2—10, Section 2: Installation
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