Valleylab ForceTriad Service manual

Service Manual

ForceTriad™

Energy Platform

This manual and the equipment it describes are for use only by qualified medical
professionals trained in the particular technique and surgical procedure to be
performed. It is intended as a guide for servicing the Valleylab ForceTriad™
energy platform only. Additional user information is available in the
ForceTriad™ User’s Guide.

Caution

Federal (USA) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

Equipment covered in this manual

ForceTriad™ energy platform
The ForceT riad Energy Platform Service Manual consists of two parts—the text

(part 1 of 2) and a schematics supplement (part 2 of 2), which contains the
schematics.

Valleylab Part Number 945 103 122
Effective Date January 2006

Trademark acknowledgements

ForceTriad™, LigaSure™, LigaSmart™, Smart™, REM™, TissuFect™,
Valleylab™, Force FX™, Force EZ™, Force Argon™, Force GSU™,
SurgiStat™, EDGE™, AccuVac™, and PolyHesive™ are trademarks of
Valleylab.

Patents pending.

Manufactured by

Valleylab
a division of Tyco Healthcare Group LP
Boulder, Colorado 80301-3299 USA

For information call

1-303-530-2300

European representative

Tyco Healthcare UK Ltd.
Gosport, PO13 0AS, UK

Made in USA
Printed in USA

©2006 Valleylab All rights reserved.

ii ForceTriad Service Manual

Conventions Used in this Guide

Warning

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.

Caution

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury.

Notice

Indicates a hazard which may result in product damage.

Important

Indicates an operating tip or maintenance suggestion.

ForceTriad Service Manual iii

Warranty

Valleylab, a division of Tyco Healthcare Group LP, warrants each product
manufactured by it to be free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use and service for the period(s) set forth below. Valleylab’s obligation
under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement, at its sole option, of
any product, or part thereof, which has been returned to it or its Distributor within
the applicable time period shown below after delivery of the product to the
original purchaser, and which examination discloses, to Valleylab’s satisfaction,
that the product is defective. This warranty does not apply to any product, or part
thereof, which has been repaired or altered outside Valleylab’s factory in a way so
as, in Valleylab’s judgment, to affect its stability or reliability, or which has been
subjected to misuse, neglect, or accident.

The warranty periods for Valleylab products are as follows:

ForceTriad Energy Platform One year from date of shipment
Electrosurgical Generators One year from date of shipment
LigaSure Vessel Sealing System One year from date of shipment
LigaSure Reusable Instruments One year from date of shipment
Mounting Fixtures (all models) One year from date of shipment
Footswitches (all models) One year from date of shipment
Force Argon Units One year from date of shipment
OptiMumm Smoke Evacuator Two years from date of shipment
LigaSure Sterile Single Use Items Sterility only as stated on packaging
Sterile Single Use Items Sterility only as stated on packaging
Patient Return Electrodes Shelf life only as stated on packaging

This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including
without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose, and of all other obligations or liabilities on the part of Valleylab.
Valleylab neither assumes nor authorizes any other person to assume for it any
other liability in connection with the sale or use of any of Valleylab’s products.

Notwithstanding any other provision herein or in any other document or
communication, Valleylab’s liability with respect to this agreement and products
sold hereunder shall be limited to the aggregate purchase price for the goods sold
by Valleylab to the customer. There are no warranties which extend beyond the
terms hereof. Valleylab disclaims any liability hereunder or elsewhere in
connection with the sale of this product, for indirect or consequential damages.

iv ForceTriad Service Manual

This warranty and the rights and obligations hereunder shall be construed under
and governed by the laws of the State of Colorado, USA. The sole forum for
resolving disputes arising under or relating in any way to this warranty is the
District Court of the County of Boulder, State of Colorado, USA.

Valleylab, its dealers, and representatives reserve the right to make changes in
equipment built and/or sold by them at any time without incurring any obligation
to make the same or similar changes on equipment previously built and/or sold by
them.

ForceTriad Service Manual v

vi ForceTriad Service Manual

Conventions Used in this Guide ..........................................................................................................................iii

Warranty..................................................................................................................................................................iv

Chapter 1. ForceTriad Energy Platform Overview and General Features

ForceTriad Energy Platform Front Panel..........................................................................................................1-2

Introduction............................................................................................................................................................1-2

Parts Shipped .......................................................................................................................................................1-3

List of Components..............................................................................................................................................1-3

System Conventions............................................................................................................................................1-4

Touchscreens..............................................................................................................................................1-4

Common Symbols......................................................................................................................................1-4

Power Modes........................................................................................................................................................1-6

Monopolar Modes.......................................................................................................................................1-6

Bipolar Modes.............................................................................................................................................1-6

LigaSure Mode............................................................................................................................................1-7

Chapter 2. Patient and Operating Room Safety

General..................................................................................................................................................................2-2

Setting Up the System...............................................................................................................................2-2

Fire/Explosion Hazard................................................................................................................................2-4

Energy Platform..........................................................................................................................................2-5

Active instruments......................................................................................................................................2-6

Pacemakers and ICDs...............................................................................................................................2-6

After Surgery...............................................................................................................................................2-6

Monopolar..............................................................................................................................................................2-7

Inadvertent Radio Frequency (RF) Burns...............................................................................................2-8

Bipolar....................................................................................................................................................................2-9

LigaSure ................................................................................................................................................................2-9

LigaSure in Laparoscopic Procedures..................................................................................................2-10

Servicing..............................................................................................................................................................2-11

Shunt Cords........................................................................................................................................................2-11

Procedures Where Conductive Fluid is Introduced into the Surgical Site................................................2-11

Laparoscopic Procedures.................................................................................................................................2-12

Chapter 3. System Setup

Setup......................................................................................................................................................................3-2

Before Startup.............................................................................................................................................3-2

Powering Up the ForceTriad Energy Platform.......................................................................................3-2

System Functions.................................................................................................................................................3-2

Adjusting Display Brightness....................................................................................................................3-2

Activation Log..............................................................................................................................................3-2

Restore.........................................................................................................................................................3-3

Setup ............................................................................................................................................................3-3

ForceTriad Service Manual vii

Chapter 4. Technical Specifications

Performance Characteristics..............................................................................................................................4-2

General........................................................................................................................................................4-2

Dimensions and Weight............................................................................................................................4-2

Operating Parameters...............................................................................................................................4-3

Transport and Storage...............................................................................................................................4-3

Internal Memory..........................................................................................................................................4-3

Audio Volume.......................................................................................................................................................4-4

Activation Tone...........................................................................................................................................4-4

Alarm Tone..................................................................................................................................................4-4

REM Contact Quality Monitor...................................................................................................................4-5

Autobipolar ..................................................................................................................................................4-5

Duty Cycle...................................................................................................................................................4-6

Low Frequency (50/60 Hz) Leakage Current.........................................................................................4-6

High Frequency (RF) Leakage Current..................................................................................................4-7

Input Power.................................................................................................................................................4-8

Power Cord Specification..........................................................................................................................4-8

Input Frequency..........................................................................................................................................4-9

Input Current...............................................................................................................................................4-9

Backup Power.............................................................................................................................................4-9

Equipotential Ground Connection............................................................................................................4-9

ECG Blanking .............................................................................................................................................4-9

Standards and IEC Classifications..................................................................................................................4-10

Class I Equipment (IEC 60601-1)..........................................................................................................4-10

Type CF Equipment (IEC 60601-1)/Defibrillator Proof.......................................................................4-10

Liquid Spillage........................................................................................................................................... 4-10

Voltage Transients (Emergency Energy Platform Mains Transfer)..................................................4-11

Electromagnetic Compatibility (IEC 60601-1-2 and IEC 60601-2-2)...............................................4-11

Output Characteristics....................................................................................................................................... 4-16

Maximum Output for Bipolar, Monopolar, and LigaSure Modes.......................................................4-16

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs ............................................................................................................4-20

Monopolar Graphs ...................................................................................................................................4-20

Chapter 5. Principles of Operation

Block Diagram......................................................................................................................................................5-2

Functional Overview............................................................................................................................................5-3

TissuFect Tissue Sensing Technology...................................................................................................5-3

REM Contact Quality Monitoring System...............................................................................................5-3

High Voltage DC (HVDC) Power Supply Principles of Operation................................................................ 5-4

RF Principles of Operation.................................................................................................................................5-5

REM.............................................................................................................................................................. 5-5

Autobipolar ..................................................................................................................................................5-5

Leakage Current Monitor..........................................................................................................................5-5

Sensor Circuit .............................................................................................................................................5-6

Steering Relay PCBA Principles of Operation ................................................................................................5-7

viii ForceTriad Service Manual

Circuit Descriptions for the Force Triad Display PCBA..................................................................................5-8

Hotlink Transceiver U1 ..............................................................................................................................5-8

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Driver Inside the FPGA U28..................................................................5-8

Touchscreen Driver....................................................................................................................................5-8

LCD Brightness DAC Control ...................................................................................................................5-9

Barcode Driver............................................................................................................................................5-9

PCBA ID Transmitter..................................................................................................................................5-9

Power Supply..............................................................................................................................................5-9

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description.................................................................................................5-9

Overview......................................................................................................................................................5-9

Power Supplies.........................................................................................................................................5-10

Communications.......................................................................................................................................5-11

Footswitch Data........................................................................................................................................5-12

Expansion Port DAC Data.......................................................................................................................5-12

Flash Memory............................................................................................................................................5-12

Isolated Footswitch and Expansion Port Circuitry...............................................................................5-13

Controller PCBA.................................................................................................................................................5-17

Controller Block Diagram ........................................................................................................................5-17

Digital Signal Processor (DSP) Controlled Data Converters.............................................................5-18

Interface Control Logic PLD....................................................................................................................5-18

External Peripherals.................................................................................................................................5-19

Chapter 6. Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

Setting Up the Generator....................................................................................................................................6-2

Periodic Safety Check.........................................................................................................................................6-3

Recommended Test Equipment...............................................................................................................6-4

Inspecting the Generator and Accessories ............................................................................................6-4

Inspecting the Internal Components........................................................................................................6-6

Verifying REM Function.............................................................................................................................6-7

Checking High Frequency Leakage Current........................................................................................6-14

Calibrating the ForceTriad Generator.............................................................................................................6-15

Chapter 7. Troubleshooting

Inspecting the ForceTriad Energy Platform .....................................................................................................7-1

Responding to System Errors............................................................................................................................7-2

System Error Descriptions ........................................................................................................................7-2

Non-Recoverable Error Descriptions.......................................................................................................7-2

Chapter 8. Replacement Procedures

Fuse Replacement...............................................................................................................................................8-2

Battery Replacement...........................................................................................................................................8-2

Low Voltage Power Supply (LVPS) Replacement..........................................................................................8-3

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Replacement.............................................................................................................8-4

Controller PCBA Replacement ..........................................................................................................................8-5

High Voltage DC (HVDC) PCBA Replacement...............................................................................................8-6

Front Panel Replacement...................................................................................................................................8-7

ForceTriad Service Manual ix

RF PCBA Replacement......................................................................................................................................8-8

Steering Relay PCBA Replacement.................................................................................................................8-9

Display PCBA Replacement ............................................................................................................................8-11

Barcode Scanner Replacement.......................................................................................................................8-12

Output Receptacle Replacement....................................................................................................................8-13

Chapter 9. Repair Policies and Procedures

Responsibility of the Manufacturer.................................................................................................................... 9-2

Routine Maintenance ..........................................................................................................................................9-2

Cleaning ................................................................................................................................................................9-3

Product Service.................................................................................................................................................... 9-3

Returning the Energy Platform for Service.............................................................................................9-3

Adjustment to Factory Specification (Calibration)...........................................................................................9-4

Software Upgrades..............................................................................................................................................9-4

Service Centers....................................................................................................................................................9-4

Chapter 10. Service Parts

Ordering Replacement Parts............................................................................................................................ 10-1

Chassis Assembly.............................................................................................................................................. 10-2

Shield PCBAs.....................................................................................................................................................10-6

Front Panel..........................................................................................................................................................10-8

Display LCD PCBA..........................................................................................................................................10-10

Steering Relay PCBA......................................................................................................................................10-15

Receptacles......................................................................................................................................................10-19

RF PCBA...........................................................................................................................................................10-24

Footswitch/Audio PCBA..................................................................................................................................10-31

HVDC PCBA.....................................................................................................................................................10-38

Controller PCBA...............................................................................................................................................10-44

Cable Assemblies............................................................................................................................................10-54

x ForceTriad Service Manual

Chapter

ForceTriad Energy Platform Overview
and General Features

This chapter provides an overview of the features and functions of
the ForceTriad energy platform.

1

Caution

Read all warnings, cautions, and instructions provided with this system before
use.

Read the instructions, warnings, and cautions provided with electrosurgical
instruments before use. Specific instructions for electrosurgical instruments are
not included in this manual.

ForceTriad Service Manual 1-1

ForceTriad Energy Platform Front Panel

ForceTriad Energy Platform Front Panel

Monopolar 1 and accessory touchscreen

Monopolar 2 and bipolar touchscreen

LigaSure and system tray touchscreen

Power
switch

Monopolar 1 instrument receptacle

Universal footswitching
accessory receptacle

Introduction

REM patient return
electrode receptacle

Monopolar 2 instrument
receptacle

Bipolar instrument receptacle

LigaSure 2 receptacle

LigaSure 1
receptacle

The ForceTriad energy platform is designed to provide RF energy for monopolar
and bipolar surgical applications and tissue-fusion applications. It features three
touchscreen user interfaces, and has the ability to automatically detect handsets
and configure the generator accordingly. Safety and diagnostic functionality
include automatic fail-safe functions.

1-2 ForceTriad Service Manual

Parts Shipped

Parts Shipped

List of Components

When you unpack the ForceTriad energy platform, verify that the following parts
have been shipped:

• ForceTriad energy platform

• Power cord (110V)

• Monopolar footswitch adapter cable

• User’s guide

• Service manual

• Schematics supplement

• Quick reference guide

The ForceTriad energy platform is a self-contained unit, consisting of a main
enclosure (cover and base) and power cord. The main components of the
generator are the following:

• Front panel components

• Rear panel components

ForceTriad Energy Platform Overview

and General Features

• Internal components
Details about the interaction of the main components and PCBA descriptions are

provided in Chapter 4, Principles of Operation.

ForceTriad Service Manual 1-3

System Conventions

System Conventions

Touchscreens

The ForceTriad energy platform features a user-friendly interface with three
touchscreens that allow the user to control system functions. The active
touchscreen or touchscreens will illuminate, and the unavailable touchscreens
will dim.

Common Symbols

Symbol Name Description

Page Up/Page Down

Up/Down

Next/Back

Scroll through blocks of options that cannot be displayed on a single
screen.

Pressing once increases/decreases the associated value selection by
one or moves highlighted selection up/down one line. Pressing and
holding scrolls up/down.

Progresses/Regresses to the next screen.

Back Space

1-4 ForceTriad Service Manual

Regresses one character.

Symbol Name Description

System Conventions

ForceTriad Energy Platform Overview

Bipolar Mute On/Off

Cancel

Enter

System Tray

Turn on/off the audio tones produced by the system that indicate the
increase or decrease of current during a bipolar procedure.

Cancels current screen and returns to the previous screen.

Accepts and initiates current selections.

The system tray contains controls that allow you to access and adjust
system settings including screen brightness and Main Menu options.

and General Features

Brightness

Each selection of this button adjusts the screen brightness to the next
of the three available brightness settings. When maximum brightness
is reached, next selection resets to the least bright setting.

Wrench

Selecting accesses the Main Menu, which provides user-selected
options for language, appearance, and operation.

ForceTriad Service Manual 1-5

Power Modes

Power Modes

As a safety feature to prevent unexpected power delivery spikes, simultaneous
activation of multiple instruments is not possible on the ForceTriad energy
platform.

Monopolar Modes

The ForceTriad energy platform produces five different modes of power output.

Cut Modes

Pure cut provides a clean, precise cut in any tissue with little or no hemostasis.
Blend cut is a conventional blended waveform that provides slower cutting and

additional hemostasis.

Valleylab Mode

The Valleylab mode delivers optimized energy to provide controlled hemostasis
with minimal thermal spread during tissue division. The Valleylab mode function
is only available when using Valleylab mode-enabled instruments.

Coag Modes

Fulgurate coagulates tissue by sparking from the active electrode, through air, to
the patient tissue. Since sparks may spray unpredictably from the electrode during
fulguration, using fulguration for delicate tissue or in confined areas can
complicate surgery. Accidental sparking to adjacent areas can occur as tissue at
the surgical site dries and becomes more resistant to current flow.

Spray delivers optimum fulguration; penetration is shallower and the tissue area
is larger than with the fulgurate mode.

Bipolar Modes

Three bipolar modes are available: low, standard, and macrobipolar.

Low delivers precision and fine control over the amount of desiccation.
Standard is a conventional bipolar output at low voltage.
Macro (macrobipolar) may be used for bipolar cutting or rapid coagulation.

Power remains constant over a wide range of tissue types.

Autobipolar

The autobipolar feature senses tissue impedance between the two bipolar
electrodes, then uses the impedance information to automatically start or stop
bipolar RF energy delivery. Optionally, the user may choose between footswitch
start and auto start, or program a delay between auto start and RF activation.

1-6 ForceTriad Service Manual

Power Modes

LigaSure Mode

The LigaSure tissue fusion mode can be used on arteries, veins, and lymphatics up
to and including 7 mm in diameter and tissue bundles. This system provides
precise energy delivery and electrode pressure to vessels for a controlled time
period to achieve a complete and permanent fusion of the vessel lumen. The
system has been optimized to produce minimal sticking, charring or thermal
spread to adjacent tissue.

LigaSure Instruments

The LigaSure instruments that complete the ForceTriad tissue fusion system
include multiple reusable and single use instruments for open and laparoscopic
procedures. Each reusable instrument requires a corresponding single use
electrode. The LigaSure function is only available when using Valleylab LigaSure
instruments.

ForceTriad Energy Platform Overview

and General Features

ForceTriad Service Manual 1-7

1-8 ForceTriad Service Manual

Chapter

Patient and Operating Room Safety

The safe and effective use of electrosurgery depends to a large
degree upon factors solely under the control of the operator. There
is no substitute for a properly trained and vigilant surgical team. It is
important that the operating instructions supplied with this or any
electrosurgical equipment be read, understood, and followed.

2

Electrosurgery has been used safely in millions of procedures.
Before starting any surgical procedure, the surgeon should be
trained in the particular technique and surgical procedure to be
performed, should be familiar with the medical literature related to
the procedure and potential complications, and should be familiar
with the risks versus the benefits of utilizing electrosurgery in the
procedure.

ForceTriad Service Manual 2-1

General

General

Setting Up the System

Warning

Electric Shock Hazard Connect the system power cord to a properly grounded

power receptacle. Do not use power plug adapters.

Fire Hazard Do not use extension cords.
Patient Safety Use the energy platform only if the power-up self-test has been

completed as described in this manual, otherwise inaccurate power outputs may
result.

Caution

When using a smoke evacuator in conjunction with the ForceTriad energy
platform, place the smoke evacuator at a distance from the energy platform and
set the system volume control at a level that ensures that the activation tones can
be heard.

Connect only Valleylab-approved footswitches. Using footswitches from other
manufacturers may cause equipment malfunction.

Warning

Hazardous Electrical Output This equipment is for use only by trained, licensed

physicians.
Do not use electrosurgical equipment unless properly trained to use it in the

specific procedure being undertaken. Use of this equipment without such training
can result in serious, unintended patient injury, including bowel perforation and
unintended, irreversible tissue necrosis.

Always use the lowest power setting that achieves the desired surgical effect.
The active electrode should be utilized only for the minimum time necessary in
order to lessen the possibility of unintended burn injury. Accidental and
unintended burn injury has occurred during procedures in small surgical fields
and on small appendages. Pediatric applications and/or procedures performed
on small anatomic structures may require reduced power settings. The higher the
current flow and the longer the current is applied, the greater the possibility of
unintended thermal damage to tissue, especially during use on small structures.

Do not wrap the instrument cords or patient return electrode cords around metal
objects. This may induce currents that could lead to shocks, fires, or injury to the
patient or surgical team.

Electric Shock Hazard Do not connect wet instruments to the energy platform.
Ensure that all instruments and adapters are correctly connected and that no
metal is exposed at any connection points.

Confirm proper power settings before proceeding with surgery. If the proper
power settings are not known, set the power to a low setting and cautiously
increase the power until the desired effect is achieved. If increased power
settings are requested, check the patient return electrode and all instrument
connections before major power setting adjustments.

2-2 ForceTriad Service Manual

General

Warning

Contact between the active electrode and any metal will greatly increase current
flow and can result in unintended surgical effect.

While using electrosurgery, the patient should not be allowed to come into direct
contact with grounded metal objects (e.g., surgical table frame, instrument table,
etc.). If this is not possible during certain procedures (e.g., those in which
noninsulated head frames are used), use extreme caution to maximize patient
safety:

• Use the lowest power setting that achieves the desired effect.

• Place the patient return electrode as close to the surgical site as possible.

• Place dry gauze between the patient and the grounded object if possible.

• Continually monitor the contact point(s).

• Do not use metal needle monitoring electrodes.

Caution

Read all warnings, cautions, and instructions provided with this energy platform
before using.

Patient and Operating Room Safety

Read the instructions, warnings, and cautions provided with electrosurgical
instruments before using. Specific instructions for electrosurgical instruments are
not included in this manual.

For surgical procedures where the current could flow through delicate parts of the
body, the use of bipolar techniques may be desirable in order to avoid unwanted
coagulation.

Examine all instruments and connections to the system before using. Ensure that
the instruments function as intended. Improper connection may result in arcs,
sparks, instrument malfunction, or unintended surgical effects.

Do not turn the activation tone down to an inaudible level. The activation tone
alerts the surgical team when the energy platform is delivering RF energy.

A non-functioning ForceTriad energy platform may cause interruption of surgery.
A backup system should be available for use.

Studies have shown that smoke generated during electrosurgical procedures can
be potentially harmful to patients and the surgical team. These studies
recommend adequately ventilating the smoke by using a surgical smoke
evacuator or other means.

Inadvertent activation may occur while installing, removing, or bending
electrodes. Ensure that the instrument cord is not connected to the ForceTriad
energy platform or that the system is OFF.

a. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. National Institute for Occupa-

tional Safety and Health (NIOSH). Control of Smoke from Laser/Electric Surgical
Procedures. HAZARD CONTROLS, Publication No. 96-128, September, 1996.

a

ForceTriad Service Manual 2-3

General

Notice

Connect the power cord to a properly grounded power receptacle having the
correct voltage. Otherwise, product damage may result.

Important

If required by local codes, connect the energy platform to the hospital
equalization connector with an equipotential cable.

Fire/Explosion Hazard

Warning

Danger: Explosion Hazard Do not use electrosurgery in the presence of

flammable anesthetics.
Fire Hazard Do not place active instruments near or in contact with flammable

materials (such as gauze or surgical drapes). Electrosurgical instruments that are
activated or hot from use can cause a fire. When not in use, place electrosurgical
instruments in a safety holster or safely away from patients, the surgical team,
and flammable materials.

2-4 ForceTriad Service Manual

General

Warning

Fire Hazard Sparking and heating associated with electrosurgery can be an

ignition source. Keep gauze and sponges wet. Keep electrosurgical electrodes
away from flammable materials and oxygen (O

Use of electrosurgery in O
Therefore, take measures to reduce the O

Avoid enriched O
Both O2 and N2O support combustion and may result in fires and burns to
patients or surgical personnel.

If possible, stop supplemental oxygen at least one minute before and during use
of electrosurgery.

Do not activate the energy platform until flammable vapors from skin prep
solutions and tinctures have dissipated.

Avoid the accumulation of naturally occurring flammable gases that may
accumulate in body cavities such as the bowel.

Prevent pooling of flammable fluids and the accumulation of flammable or
oxidizing gases or vapors under surgical drapes or near the surgical site.

Tissue buildup (eschar) on the tip of an active electrode may create embers that
pose a fire hazard, especially in oxygen enriched environments. Keep the
electrode clean and free of all debris.

Facial and other body hair is flammable. Water soluble surgical lubricating jelly
may be used to cover hair close to the surgical site to decrease flammability.

Verify that all anesthesia circuit connections are leak free before and during use
of electrosurgery.

and nitrous oxide (N2O) atmospheres near the surgical site.

2

rich environments increases the risk of fire.

2

) enriched environments.

2

concentration at the surgical site.

2

Patient and Operating Room Safety

Fire Hazard During Oropharyngeal Surgery

Verify endotracheal tubes are leak free and that the cuff seals properly to prevent
oxygen leaks.

If an uncuffed tube is in use, pack the throat with wet sponges around the
uncuffed tube, and be sure to keep sponges wet throughout the procedure.

Question the need for 100% O2 during oropharyngeal or head and neck surgery.
If necessary, scavenge excess O2 with separate suction.

Energy Platform

Warning

Each instrument receptacle on this energy platform is designed to accept only
one instrument at a time. Do not attempt to connect more than one instrument at
a time into a receptacle. Doing so will cause simultaneous activation of the
instruments. Follow the instructions provided with electrosurgical instruments for
proper connection and use.

Caution

Do not stack equipment on top of the energy platform or place the energy
platform on top of electrical equipment. This is an unstable configuration and
does not allow for adequate cooling.

ForceTriad Service Manual 2-5

General

Caution

Provide as much distance as possible between the energy platform and other
electronic equipment (such as monitors). Do not cross or bundle electronic device
cords. This energy platform may cause interference with other electronic
equipment.

Active instruments

Caution

Inspect instruments and cords for breaks, cracks, nicks, and other damage
before every use. If damaged, do not use. Damaged instruments or cords may
result in injury or electrical shock to the patient or surgical team.

Pacemakers and ICDs

Warning

Use electrosurgery and tissue fusion with caution in the presence of internal or
external pacemakers. Interference produced by the use of electrosurgical
devices can cause a pacemaker to enter an asynchronous mode or can block the
pacemaker effect entirely. Consult the pacemaker manufacturer or hospital
cardiology department for further information when use of electrosurgery or
tissue fusion appliances is planned in patients with cardiac pacemakers.

If the patient has an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), contact the ICD
manufacturer for instructions before performing an electrosurgical or tissue fusion
procedure. Electrosurgery or tissue fusion may cause multiple activations of
ICDs.

After Surgery

Warning

Electric Shock Hazard Always turn off and unplug the energy platform before

cleaning.

Caution

Do not reprocess, reuse or resterilize instruments labeled “disposable” or “single
use only.”

Notice

Do not clean the energy platform with abrasive cleaning or disinfectant
compounds, solvents, or other materials that could scratch the panels or damage
the energy platform.

2-6 ForceTriad Service Manual

Monopolar

Monopolar

Warning

Simultaneously activating suction/irrigation and electrosurgical current may result
in increased arcing at the electrode tip, burns to unintended tissues, or shocks
and burns to the surgical team.

Some surgeons may elect to “buzz the hemostat” during surgical procedures. It is
not recommended, and the hazards of such a practice probably cannot be
eliminated. Burns to the surgeon’s hands are possible. To minimize the risk take
these precautions:

• Do not “buzz the hemostat” with a needle electrode.

• Do not lean on the patient, the table, or the retractors while buzzing the
hemostat.

• Activate cut rather than coag. Cut has a lower voltage than coag.

• Firmly grasp as much of the hemostat as possible before activating the energy
platform. This disperses the current over a larger area and minimizes the
current concentration at the finger tips.

• “Buzz the hemostat” below hand level (as close as possible to the patient) to
reduce the opportunity for current to follow alternate paths through the
surgeon’s hands.

• Use the lowest power setting possible for the minimum time necessary to
achieve hemostasis.

• Activate the energy platform after the instrument makes contact with the
hemostat. Do not arc to the hemostat.

• When using a coated or nonstick blade electrode, place the edge of the
electrode against the hemostat or other metal instrument.

Patient and Operating Room Safety

ForceTriad Service Manual 2-7

Monopolar

Patient Return Electrodes

Warning

Do not attempt to use patient return electrodes that disable the REM system. The
ForceTriad energy platform’s contact quality monitoring system will function
correctly only with REM patient return electrodes. Any other patient return
electrode products may cause patient injury or product damage.

The safe use of monopolar electrosurgery requires proper placement of the
patient return electrode. To avoid electrosurgical burns beneath the patient return
electrode, follow all directions on the product package for proper return electrode
placement and use.

Do not cut a patient return electrode to reduce its size. Patient burns due to high
current density may result.

A patient return electrode is not necessary in bipolar or LigaSure procedures.
To avoid patient burns, ensure that the patient return electrode firmly and

completely contacts the skin. Always check the patient return electrode
periodically and after the patient is repositioned and during procedures involving
long periods of activation.

Use of duty cycles greater than 25% (10 seconds active followed by 30 seconds
inactive) will increase the risk that heat build-u p under a return electrode may be
high enough to injure the patient. Do not continuously activate for longer than one
minute.

Inadvertent Radio Frequency (RF) Burns

Warning

Electrodes and probes used with monitoring, stimulation, and imaging devices (or
similar equipment) can provide a path for high frequency current even if the
electrodes or probes are isolated at 50-60 Hz, insulated, and/or battery operated.

Do not use needles as monitoring electrodes during electrosurgical procedures.
Inadvertent electrosurgical burns may result.

To reduce the risk of an inadvertent electrosurgical burn at the electrode or probe
site, place the electrode and/or probe as far away as possible from the
electrosurgical site and/or patient return electrode. Protective impedances
(resistors or RF inductors) installed in the monitoring leads may reduce the risk of
such burns. Consult the hospital biomedical engineer for further information.

2-8 ForceTriad Service Manual

Bipolar

Warning

In some circumstances, the potential exists for alternate site burns at points of
skin contact (e.g., between the arm and the side of the body). This occurs when
electrosurgical current seeks a path to the patient return electrode that includes
the skin-to-skin contact point. Current passing through small skin-to-skin contact
points is concentrated and may cause a burn. This is true for ground referenced
and isolated output electrosurgical energy systems.

To reduce the potential for alternate site burns, do one or more of the following:

• Avoid skin-to-skin contact points, such as fingers touching leg or knee touching
knee when positioning the patient.

• Place insulation, such as dry gauze or towel, between contact points to ensure
that contact does not occur.

• Position the patient return electrode to provide a direct current route between
the surgical site and the return electrode which avoids skin-to-skin contact
areas.

• In addition, place patient return electrodes according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.

Patient and Operating Room Safety

Bipolar

LigaSure

Caution

Bipolar instruments must be connected to the bipolar instrument receptacle only.
Improper connection may result in inadvertent system activation.

Warning

LigaSure instruments are intended for use ONLY with the Valleylab ForceTriad
energy platform and the Valleylab LigaSure vessel sealing system. Use of these
instruments with other Valleylab generators or with generators produced by other
manufacturers could result in injury to the patient or surgical team, or cause
damage to the instrument.

If the seal cycle complete tone has not sounded, an optimal seal may not have
been achieved. Reactivate the RF energy until a seal complete tone is heard.

The LigaSure tissue fusion function has not been shown to be effective for tubal
sterilization or tubal coagulation for sterilization procedures. Do not use this
function for these procedures.

Use caution during surgical cases in which patients exhibit certain types of
vascular pathology (atherosclerosis, aneurysmal vessels, etc.). For best results,
apply the seal to unaffected vasculature.

ForceTriad Service Manual 2-9

LigaSure

Warning

Do not activate the energy platform in the LigaSure mode until the tissue fusion
instrument has been applied with the proper pressure. Activating the ene rgy
platform before this is done will result in an improper seal and may increase
thermal spread to tissue outside the surgical site.

Tissue fusion requires the application of RF energy and pressure from the
instrument. Tissue to be sealed must be firmly grasped between the instrument
jaw electrodes. Tissue in the jaw hinge or outside the instrument jaw will not be
sealed even if thermal blanching occurs.

Do not use LigaSure instruments on vessels in excess of 7 mm in diameter.
LigaSure instruments that require single use electrodes must be used with the

correct electrode type. Use of these instruments with any other electrodes could
result in injury to the patient or surgical team, or cause damage to the instrument.

Conductive fluids (e.g, blood or saline) in direct contact with LigaSure
instruments or in close proximity may carry electrical current or heat, which may
cause unintended surgical effects or burns.

Caution

Energy based devices, such as electrosurgical pencils or ultrasonic scalpels, that
are associated with thermal spread should not be used to transect seals.

Avoid placing fingers in the handle ratchet mechanism. Injury to the user may
result.

LigaSure in Laparoscopic Procedures

Warning

For laparoscopic procedures, be alert to these potential hazards:

• The external surfaces of the LigaSure instrument jaws may remain hot enough
to cause burns after the RF current is deactivated.

• Inadvertent activation or movement of the activated LigaSure instrument
outside of the field of vision may result in injury to the patient.

• Do not activate the instrument while the instrument jaws are in contact with, or
in close proximity to, other instruments including metal cannulas, as localized
burns to the patient or physician may occur.

• Do not activate the LigaSure function in an open circuit condition. Activate the
energy platform only when the instrument is near or in direct contact with the
target tissue to reduce the possibility of unintended burns.

• Carefully insert and withdraw LigaSure instruments from cannulas to avoid
possible damage to the devices and/or injury to the patient.

2-10 ForceTriad Service Manual

Servicing

Shunt Cords

Servicing

Warning

Electric Shock Hazard Do not remove the energy platform cover. Contact

authorized personnel for service.

Notice

Refer to this system’s service manual for maintenance recommendations and
function and output power verification procedures.

Patient and Operating Room Safety

Warning

Some surgical instruments (e.g., colonoscopes) may allow substantial leakage
current that could burn the surgeon. If the instrument manufacturer recommends
the use of a shunt cord (s-cord) to direct the current back to the energy platform,
you must also use a Valleylab E0507-B adapter. To avoid a REM alarm, you
must use a REM patient return electrode with the E0507-B adapter.

Procedures Where Conductive Fluid is Introduced into the Surgical Site

Warning

When this energy platform is used in procedures where conductive fluid (saline or
lactated ringers) is introduced into the surgical site for distention or to conduct RF
current, higher than normal currents (greater than one amp) may be produced. In
this situation, use one or more adult-size return electrodes. Do not use return
electrodes labeled for children, infants, babies, neonatal use, or pediatric use.

Use of duty cycles greater than 25% (10 seconds active followed by 30 seconds
inactive) will increase the risk that heat build-up under a return electrode may be
high enough to injure the patient. Do not continuously activate for longer than one
minute.

ForceTriad Service Manual 2-11

Laparoscopic Procedures

Laparoscopic Procedures

Warning

For laparoscopic procedures, be alert to these potential hazards:

• Laparoscopic surgery may result in gas embolism due to insufflation of gas in
the abdomen.

• The electrode tip may remain hot enough to cause burns after the
electrosurgical current is deactivated.

• Inadvertent activation or movement of the activated electrod e outside of the
field of vision may result in injury to the patient.

• Localized burns to the patient or physician may result from electrical currents
carried through conductive objects (such as cannulas or scopes). Electrical
current may be generated in conductive objects through direct contact with the
active electrode, or by the active instrument (electrode or cable) being in close
proximity to the conductive object.

• Do not use hybrid trocars that have a nonconductive locking anchor placed
over a conductive sleeve. For the operative channel, use all metal or all plastic
systems. At no time should electrical energy pass through hybrid systems.
Capacitive coupling of RF current may cause unintended burns.

• When using laparoscopic instrumentation with metal cannulas, the potential
exists for abdominal wall burns to occur due to direct electrode contact or
capacitive coupling of RF current. This is most likely to occur in instances
where the energy platform is activated for extended periods at high power
levels inducing high current levels in the cannula.

• Ensure that the insulation of single use and reusable laparoscopic
instrumentation is intact and uncompromised. Compromised insulation may
lead to inadvertent metal-to-metal sparking and neuromuscular stimulation
and/or inadvertent sparking to adjacent tissue.

• Do not activate electrodes while in contact with other instruments as
unintended tissue injury may occur.

Do not activate the energy platform in an open circuit condition. To reduce the
chances of unintended burns, activate the energy platform only when the active
electrode is near or touching the target tissue.

• Use the lowest power setting that achieves the desired surgical effect and use
a low voltage waveform (Pure Cut, Valleylab, or Fulgurate) to lessen the
potential for the creation of capacitive currents.

• Carefully insert and withdraw active electrodes from cannulas to avoid possible
injury to the patient or damage to the devices.

Valleylab recommends against the use of laparoscopic surgery on pregnant
patients.

2-12 ForceTriad Service Manual

System Setup

This chapter describes the how to set up the energy platform, turn it
on, and configure system settings.

Read all warnings, cautions, and instructions provided with this system before
use.

Chapter

3

Caution

Read the instructions, warnings, and cautions provided with electrosurgical
instruments before use. Specific instructions for electrosurgical instruments are
not included in this manual.

ForceTriad Service Manual 3-1

Setup

Setup

Before Startup

1. Verify the system is off by pressing the power switch off (O).

2. Place the energy platform on a flat, stable surface such as a table, platform,

boom system, or Valleylab cart. Carts with conductive wheels are
recommended. Refer to the procedures for your local institution or your local
codes.

3. Plug the system power cord into the rear panel receptacle.

4. Plug the system power cord into a grounded power receptacle.

Powering Up the ForceTriad Energy Platform

1. Turn on the system by pressing the power switch on ( | ). Observe the

following during the power-up self test:

• The ForceTriad logo will appear on all three screens.

• A status bar indicates activity.

System Functions

• An hourglass icon indicates activity after the status bar disappears.

• A tone will sound upon completion of self-test.

2. If the system does not pass the power-up self test, refer to the Troubleshooting

chapter.

Adjusting Display Brightness

The ForceTriad energy platform screens have three levels of brightness. Touch
the brightness icon on the right side of the right touchscreen to adjust the display
brightness.

Activation Log

The Activation Log allows the user to view the last 1000 activations and REM
alerts.

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The Main

Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

2. Touch Activation Log in the Main Menu. The activation log will appear on

the center touchscreen.

3. Touch the single up or down arrows to the right of th e activation log to scroll

through the log one line at a time.

4. Touch the green arrow button on the bottom right corn er of the Main Menu

screen to return the ForceTriad energy platform to the previous setup
configuration. The last settings will be displayed.

3-2 ForceTriad Service Manual

System Functions

Restore

Select the Restore button in the Main Menu to restore the ForceTriad energy
platform to the previous setup configuration. The touchscreens will display the
last settings entered prior to shutting the system off.

Setup

The Setup menu allows the user to change the language that the system
touchscreens display, set the time and date, and enable or disable the autobipolar
mode.

Language Setup

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The Main

Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

2. Touch Setup in the Main Menu. The Setup display will appear in the left

touchscreen.

3. T ouch Language in the Setup menu. A list of languages will appear in the left

touchscreen.

4. T ouch the single up or down arrows to the right of the list to scroll through the

list one line at a time.
or
Touch the double up or down arrows to scroll through th e list one page at a

time.

5. Touch the desired language. A confirmation box will appear and request the

user to confirm that a language change is desired.

6. T o proceed with the language change, touch the green check mark button. The

language will be activated and the confirmation box will close.
or
To reject the language change, touch the red ‘X’ button. The language setting

will return to the previously selected language.

7. Touch the green arrow button to return to the Setup menu.

8. Touch the green arrow button below the Set up m e nu to return to the Main

Menu.

Time and Date Setup

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The Main

Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

System Setup

2. Touch Setup in the Main Menu. The Setup display will appear in the left

touchscreen.

3. Touch the Time and Date button in the Setup menu. The Time and Date

display will appear in the left touchscreen.

4. Touch the desired numeric field (minutes, seconds, m onth , day, or year) to

select that field.

ForceTriad Service Manual 3-3

System Functions

5. Touch the up or down arrows next to the time or date row to adjust the

selected numeric field.
T ouch and hold the arrows to increase the number once per second. After four

seconds, the numbers will increase once per 100 milliseconds.

6. T ouch the green check mark button to store the date and time information and

return to the Setup menu.
or
Touch the red ‘X’ button to return the tim e and date to the previous settings

and return to the Setup menu.

7. Touch the green arrow button below the Setup menu to return to the Main

Menu.

Enable/Disable Autobipolar

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The Main

Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

2. Touch Setup in the Main Menu. The Setup menu will appear in the left

touchscreen.

3. If the Autobipolar mode is not enabled, the Autobipolar button shall display

‘Enable AutoBipolar’. Touch the Enable AutoBipolar button to enable the
autobipolar mode.

If the Autobipolar mode is enabled, the Autobipolar button shall display
‘Disable AutoBipolar’. Touch the Disable AutoBipolar button to disable the
autobipolar mode.

4. Touch the green arrow button below the Setup menu to return to the Main

Menu.

3-4 ForceTriad Service Manual

System Functions

Demo Mode

Warning

Demo mode is intended for demonstration or testing purposes only. Demo mode
is not intended for clinical use.

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The Main

Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

Enable Demo Mode

1. In the Main Menu, the Demo mode button will display ‘Enter Demo’ if the

system is not in Demo mode. Touch the Enter Demo mode button to begin
Demo mode. The system operating displays will appear in all the touchscreens
with the words ‘DEMO MODE: Not for Clinical Use’ on all three screens.

2. Proceed with any practice or demonstration scenarios. While in Demo mode,

the REM alarm and the dual instrument error alarm are deactivated but RF
power will still be delivered.

NOTE: In Demo Mode the generator will not sense instrument type, so the
appropriate tab must be selected manually for the connected instrument.

To exit Demo mode, either turn the system off and restart it, or follow the

3.

steps in the exit Demo mode section below.

Exit Demo Mode

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The main

menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

2. In the Main Menu, the Demo mode button will display ‘Exit Demo’ if the

system is in Demo mode. Touch the Exit Demo button in the Main Menu to
exit the Demo mode. The system touchscreens will display the last settings
entered during the Demo mode.

System Setup

ForceTriad Service Manual 3-5

3-6 ForceTriad Service Manual

Technical Specifications

All specifications are nominal and subject to change without notice.
A specification referred to as “Typical” is within ±20% of a stated
value at room temperature (77°F/25°C) and a nominal line input
voltage.

Chapter

4

Caution

Read all warnings, cautions, and instructions provided with this system before
use.

Read the instructions, warnings, and cautions provided with electrosurgical
instruments before use. Specific instructions for electrosurgical instruments are
not included in this manual.

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-1

Performance Characteristics

Performance Characteristics

General

Output configuration Isolated output

Cooling Natural convection and fan

Display Three LCD touchscreens

Connector ports LED illuminated Smart connector readers

Mounting • ForceTriad cart (FT900), Universal Mounting cart

(UC8009), and/or the UC8010 Overshelf

• operating room boom systems

• any stable, flat surface such as a table or cart top

Dimensions and Weight

Width: 18 inches

Depth 20 inches

Height 10 inches

Weight 30 pounds

4-2 ForceTriad Service Manual

Operating Parameters

Performance Characteristics

Ambient temperature
range

Relative humidity 30% to 75% non-condensing

Atmospheric pressure 700 millibars to 1060 millibars

Warm-up time If transported or stored at temperatures outside the

+10°C to +40°C

operating temperature range, allow one hour for the
energy platform to reach room temperature before
use.

Transport and Storage

Ambient temperature
range

Relative humidity 0% to 90% (non-condensing)

-30°C to +65°C

Atmospheric pressure 500 millibars to 1060 millibars

Duration of storage The ForceTriad energy platform may be stored

indefinitely. If the energy platform is stored for over
one year, the memory battery must be replaced.

Internal Memory

Nonvolatile, battery­backed RAM

Storage capacity • 256 KB

Battery type: Lithium
Battery life: 120 mAh

Technical Specifications

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-3

Audio Volume

Audio Volume

The audio levels stated below are for activation tones (cut, Valleylab, coag,
bipolar, and LigaSure modes) and alarm tones (REM and system alarms) at a
distance of one meter.

Activation Tone

Volume (adjustable) 45 to 65 dBA

Frequency Cut: 660 Hz

Valleylab: 800 Hz
Coag: 940 Hz
Bipolar: 940 Hz
LigaSure: 440 Hz

Duration Continuous while the system is activated

Alarm Tone

Volume (not
adjustable)

Frequency REM: 660 Hz

Duration REM: Two 1/ 2 second tones separated by 1/2

>65 dBA

Regrasp: 985 Hz
Seal Complete: 985 Hz
Error/System Alert: Beep tone ranging from 1400 Hz

to 7100 Hz

second for each REM event
Regrasp: Three 1/2 second tones -- high, low, high --

separated by 1/2 second
Seal Complete: Two 1/ 2 second tones separated by

1/2 second for each Seal Complete event
Error/System Alert: Two 1/ 2 second tones separated

by 1/2 second for each Error/System Alert event

4-4 ForceTriad Service Manual

Audio Volume

REM Contact Quality Monitor

Interrogation frequency 140 kHz ± 10 kHz

Interrogation current < 50 µA

Interrogation voltage < 12V RMS

Acceptable Resistance Range

REM resistance measurements are ± 10% during RF activation and ± 5% when
RF output is not activated.

REM patient return electrode: 5 to 135 ohms or up to a 40% increase in the initial
measured contact resistance (whichever is less).

If the measured resistance is outside the acceptable range(s) noted above, a REM
fault condition occurs.

REM Alarm Activation

REM patient return electrode: When the measured resistance exceeds the
standard range of safe resistance (below 5 ohms or above 135 ohms) or when the
initial measured contact resistance increases by 40% (whichever is less), the REM
alarm indicator enlarges and flashes red and yellow, a tone sounds twice, and RF
output is disabled. The indicator remains illuminated red and yellow until you
correct the condition causing the alarm. Then, the indicator illuminates green and
RF output is enabled.

Autobipolar

The ForceTriad energy platform is equipped with an autobipolar feature that
allows for automatic activation of bipolar energy. The autobipolar specifications
are:

Interrogation frequency 80 kHz ± 10 kHz

Interrogation current < 50 µA

Interrogation voltage < 12V RMS

Technical Specifications

Activation Impedance 20 Ω to 500 Ω

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-5

Audio Volume

Deactivation Impedance User selectable: 1, 500 Ω, 1, 800 Ω, 2, 000 Ω, or

2, 200 Ω

Measurement Accuracy 10% of Full Scal e activation impedance while

keying active
5% of Full Scale activation impedance while

keying inactive

Keying Delay User selectable in 500 msec increments from

0 sec to 2.5 sec

Duty Cycle

Under maximum power settings and rated load conditions, the ForceTriad energy
platform is capable of operating a duty cycle of 25%, defined as 10 seconds active
and 30 seconds inactive, in any mode for a period of 4 hours.

Caution

Use of duty cycles greater than 25% (10 seconds active followed by 30 seconds
inactive) will increase the risk that heat build-up under a return electrode may be
high enough to injure the patient. Do not continuously activate for longer than one
minute.

Low Frequency (50/60 Hz) Leakage Current

Enclosure source
current, ground open

Source current, patient
leads, all outputs

Sink current at high
line, all inputs

< 300 µA

Normal polarity, intact ground: < 10 µA
Normal polarity, ground open: < 50 µA
Reverse polarity, ground open: <50 µA
Mains voltage on applied part: < 50 µA

< 50 µA

4-6 ForceTriad Service Manual

High Frequency (RF) Leakage Current

Audio Volume

Bipolar RF leakage
current

Monopolar RF leakage
current

LigaSure Leakage 132 mA

< 59.2 mA

< 150 mA

rms

rms

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-7

Technical Specifications

Audio Volume

Input Power

100–120 Volt 220–240 Volt

Maximum VA at nominal line voltage:

Idle: 52 V A
Bipolar: 450 VA
Cut: 924 VA
Coag: 530 VA

Input mains voltage, full regulation
range: 90–132 Vac

Input mains voltage, operating range:
85–132 Vac

Mains current (maximum):

Idle: 0.4 A
Bipolar: 2.0 A
Cut: 7.0 A
Coag: 4.0 A
LigaSure: 5.0 A

Mains line frequency range (nominal):
50 to 60 Hz

Maximum VA at nominal line voltage:

Idle: 52 V A
Bipolar: 450 VA
Cut: 924 VA
Coag: 530 VA

Input mains voltage, full regulation
range: 208–264 Vac

Input mains voltage, operating range:
170–264 Vac

Mains current (maximum):

Idle: 0.2 A
Bipolar: 1.0 A
Cut: 3.5 A
Coag: 2.0 A
LigaSure: 2.5 A

Mains line frequency range (nominal):
50 to 60 Hz

Fuses (2): 5 mm x 20 mm 8A, 250 V
fast blow

Power cord: 3-prong hospital grade
connector

Fuses (2): 5 mm x 20 mm 8A, 250 V
fast blow

Power cord: 3-prong locally approved
connector

Power Cord Specification

This unit was equipped from the factory with a 110 VAC hospital grade NEMA
5-15 power cord. Should the AC power cord need to be replaced to match another
plug configuration, the replacement plug/cable/receptacle configuration must
meet or exceed the following specifications:

100-120 VAC

Cable - SJT16/3, IEC color code, maximum length 15 ft (5 m)
Plug - minimum 10 A - 125 VAC
Unit receptacle - IEC female, minimum 10 A - 125 VAC

220-240 VAC

Cable - H05VVF3G1.0 VDE, maximum length 15’ (5 meters)
Plug - minimum 6 A - 250 VAC
Unit receptacle - IEC female, minimum 6 A - 250 VAC

4-8 ForceTriad Service Manual

Audio Volume

Input Frequency

The ForceTriad energy platform operates within specification at all line inpu t
frequencies between 48 Hz and 62 Hz. The User does not need to reconfigure the
ForceTriad energy platform for different line frequencies.

Input Current

The ForceTriad energy platform draws no more than 10A at any line input
voltage.

Backup Power

The ForceTriad energy platform retains all user programmed features, calibration,
and statistical data when switched off and unplugged. The ForceTriad energy
platform operates within specification when switched over to a supplied line
power by hospital backup systems.

Equipotential Ground Connection

An equipotential ground connection is provided to allow connection of the
ForceTriad energy platform to ground.

ECG Blanking

An ECG blanking port is provided to signal other devices that the ForceTriad
energy platform is active. The receptacle is a 2.5mm mono jack. It is electrically
isolated from the internal ground referenced electronics with the shell electrically
connected to the chassis for ESD protection.

Technical Specifications

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-9

Standards and IEC Classifications

Standards and IEC Classifications

F

ATTENTION

Consult accompanying documents.

The generator output is floating (isolated) with respect to
ground.

DANGER

Explosion risk if used with flammable anesthetics.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the
cover. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Classified with respect to electrical shock, fire, mechanical,
and other specified hazards only in accordance with
UL60601-1 and CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 601.1.

Class I Equipment (IEC 60601-1)

Accessible conductive parts cannot become live in the event of a basic insulation
failure because of the way in which they are connected to the protective earth
conductor.

Type CF Equipment (IEC 60601-1)/Defibrillator Proof

This generator provides a high degree of protection against electric
shock, particularly regarding allowable leakage currents. It is type CF
isolated (floating) output and may be used for procedures involving the
heart.

This generator complies with the ANSI/AAMI HF18 specifications for
“defibrillator proof” designation and IEC 60601-2-2.

Liquid Spillage

The ForceTriad energy platform is constructed so that liquid spillage in normal
use does not wet electrical insulation or other components, which when wetted
are likely to adversely affect the safety of the equipment.

4-10 ForceTriad Service Manual

Standards and IEC Classifications

Voltage Transients (Emergency Energy Platform Mains Transfer)

The ForceTriad energy platform continues to operate normally with no errors or
system failures when transfer is made between line AC and an emergency energy
platform voltage source. (IEC 60601-2-2 sub-clause 51.101 and AAMI HF18 sub­clause 4.2.2)

Electromagnetic Compatibility (IEC 60601-1-2 and IEC 60601-2-2)

This generator complies with the appropriate IEC 60601-1-2 and 60601-2-2
specifications regarding electromagnetic compatibility.

Notice

The ForceTriad generator should not be used adjacent to or stacked with
equipment other than specified in the ForceTriad generator user guide and
service manual. If adjacent or stacked use is necessary, the ForceTriad
generator should be observed to verify normal operation in the configuration in
which it will be used.

The ForceTriad generator intentionally applies RF energy for diagnosis or
treatment during activation. Observe other electronic medical equipment in the
vicinity during the ForceTriad generator activation for any possible adverse
electromagnetic effects. Ensure adequate separation of electronic medical
equipment based on observed reactions.

The use of accessories, other than specified in the ForceTriad generator user
guide and service manual, may result in increased emissions or decreased
immunity of the ForceTriad generator.

The ForceTriad energy platform meets the following requirements:
ESD Immunity (IEC 60601-1-2 Sub-Clause 36.202 and IEC 61000-4-2)
Radiated Immunity (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.202.2 and IEC 61000-4-3)
Electrical Fast Transient/Burst (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.202.3.1 and IEC

61000-4-4)
Surge Immunity (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.202.3.2 and IEC 61000-4-5)
Emissions (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.201.1, IEC 60601-2-2 sub-clause 36 and

CISPR 11 Class A)
Harmonic distortion (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.201.3.1 and IEC 61000-3-2)
Conducted disturbances (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.202.6 and IEC 61000-4-6)
Power frequency magnetic fields (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause 36.202.8.1 and IEC

61000-4-8)
Voltage dips, short interruptions and variations (IEC 60601-1-2 sub-clause

36.202.7 and IEC 61000-4-11)

Technical Specifications

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-11

Standards and IEC Classifications

Guidance and manufacturer's declaration - electromagnetic emis sions

The ForceTriad generator is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment spe ci fied below. The customer or
the user of the ForceTriad generator should assure that it is used in such an environment.

Emissions test Compliance Electromagnetic environment -

guidance

RF emissions

CISPR 11

RF emissions

CISPR 11

Harmonic emissions

IEC 61000-3-2

Voltage fluc tuations/ flicker

emissions IEC61000-3-3

Group 2 The ForceTriad generator must emit

electromagnetic energy in order to
perform its intended function. Nearby
electronic equipment may be affected.

Class A The ForceTriad generator is suitable

for use in all establishments other
than domestic and those directly

Class A

Complies

connected to the public low-voltage
power supply network that supplies
buildings used for domestic purposes.

4-12 ForceTriad Service Manual

Standards and IEC Classifications

Guidance and manufacturer's declaration - electromagnetic immunity

The ForceTriad generator is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment specified below. The customer or
the user of the ForceTriad generator should assure that it is used in such an environment.

Immunity test IEC 60601 test

Electrostatic discharge

(ESD)

IEC 61000-4-2

Electrical fast transient/

burst IEC 61000-4-4

Surge

IEC 61000-4-5

Voltage dips, short

interruptions and voltage

variations on power supply

input lines

IEC 61000-4-11

+/-6 kV contact

+/-2 kV for power

supply lines

+/-1 kV for input/

output lines

+/-1 kV differential

+/-2 kV common

(>95% dip in Ut)

for 0,5 cycle

(>60% dip in Ut)

(>30% dip in Ut)

for 25 cycles

(>95% dip in Ut)

level

+/-8 kV air

mode

mode

<5% Ut

40% Ut

for 5 cycles

70% Ut

<5% Ut

for 5 sec

Compliance level Electromagnetic environment -

guidance

+/-6 kV contact

+/-8 kV air

+/-2 kV for power

supply lines

+/-1 kV for input/

output lines

+/-1 kV differential

mode

+/-2 kV common

mode

<5% Ut

(>95% dip in Ut)

for 0,5 cycle

40% Ut

(>60% dip in Ut)

for 5 cycles

70% Ut

(>30% dip in Ut)

for 25 cycles

<5% Ut

(>95% dip in Ut)

for 5 sec

Floors should be wood, concrete or
ceramic tile. If floors are covered with
synthetic material, the relative humidity
should be at least 30%.

Mains power quality should be that of a
typical commercial or hospital environment.

Mains power quality should be that of a
typical commercial or hospital environment.

Mains power quality should be that of a
typical commercial or hospital environment.
If the user of the ForceTriad generator
requires continued operation during power
mains interruptions, it is recommended that
the ForceTriad generator be powered from
an uninterruptible power supply or a
battery.

Power frequency

(50/60 Hz) magnetic field

IEC 61000-4-8

NOTE: Ut is the a.c. mains voltage prior to the application of the test level.

3 A/m 3 A/m Power frequency magnetic fields should be

at levels characteristic of a typical location
in a typical commercial or hospital
environment.

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-13

Technical Specifications

Standards and IEC Classifications

Guidance and manufacturer's declaration - electromagnetic immunity

The ForceTriad generator is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment specified below. The customer or
the user of the ForceTriad generator should assure that it is used in such an environment.

Immunity test IEC 60601 test level Compliance level Electromagnetic environment -

guidance

Portable and mobile RF
communications equipment should be
used no closer to any part of the
ForceTriad generator, including cables,
than the recommended separation
distance calculated from the equation
applicable to the frequency of the
transmitter.

Conducted RF IEC

61000-4-6

Radiated RF

IEC 61000-4-3

NOTE 1 At a 80MHz and 800MHz, the higher frequency range applies.
NOTE 2 These guidelines may not apply in all situations. Electromagnetic propagation is affected by absorption and

reflection from structures, objects and people.

3 Vrms

150KHz to 80MHz

3 V/m

80MHz to 2.5GHz

3 V

7 V/m

Recommended separation distance

d=0.5√ P

d=0.5√P 80MHz to 800MHz

d=√P 800MHz to 2.5GHz

Where P is the maximum output power
rating of the transmitter in watts (W)
according to the transmitter
manufacturer and d is the
recommended separation distance in
meters (m).

Field strengths from fixed RF transmitters,
as determined by an electromagnetic site
survey , should be less than the compliance
level in each frequency range.

Interference may occur in the vicinity of
equipment marked with the following
symbol:

a. Field strengths from fixed transmitters, such as base stations for radio (cellular/cordless) telephones and land
mobile radios, amateur radio, AM and FM radio broadcast and TV broadcast cannot be predicted theoretically with
accuracy. To assess the electromagnetic environment due to fixed RF transmitters, an electromagnetic site survey
should be considered. If the measured field strength in the location in which the ForceTriad generator is used
exceeds the applicable RF compliance level above, the ForceTriad generator should be observed to verify normal
operation. If abnormal performance is observed, additional measures may be necessary, such as reorienting or
relocating the ForceTriad generator.

b. Over the frequency range 150kHz to 80MHz, field strengths should be less than 7V/m.

4-14 ForceTriad Service Manual

Standards and IEC Classifications

Recommended separation distances between portable and mobile RF communication equipment and the

ForceTriad generator

The ForceTriad generator is intended for use in an electromagnetic environment in which radiated RF disturbances
are controlled. The Customer or the user of the ForceTriad generator can help prevent electromagnetic interferences
by maintaining a minimum distance between portable and mobile RF communications equipment (transmitters) and
the ForceTriad generator as recommended below, according to the maximum output power of the communications
equipment.

Separation distance according to frequency of transmitter (m)

Rated maximum output

power of transmitter (W)

0.01 0.05 m 0.05 m 0.1 m

0.1 0.16 m 0.16 m 0.32 m

1 0.5 m 0.5 m 1 m

10 1.6 m 1.6 m 3.2 m

150 kHz to 80MHz

d=0.5√P

80MHz to 800MHz

d=0.5√P

800MHz to 2.5GHz

d=√P

100 5 m 5 m 10 m

For transmitters rated at a maximum output power not listed above, the recommended separation distance d in
meters (m) can be estimated using the equation applicable to the frequency of the transmitter, where P is the
maximum output power rating of the transmitter in watts (W) according to the transmitter manufacturer.

NOTE 1 At 80MHz and 800MHz, the separation distance for the higher frequency range applies.
NOTE 2 These guidelines may not apply in all situations. Electromagnetic propagation is affected by absorption and

reflection from structures, objects and people.

Technical Specifications

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-15

Output Characteristics

Output Characteristics

Maximum Output for Bipolar, Monopolar, and LigaSure Modes

Power readouts agree with actual power into rated load to within 15% or 5 watts,
whichever is greater.

Mode

Bipolar

Low
Standard
Macro

Monopolar Cut

Cut
Blend

Valleylab (HWD) 2365 V 4730 V 300 Ω 200 W 4.3 25%

Monopolar Coag

Fulgurate
Spray

LigaSure 287.5 V 575 V 20 Ω 350 W 1.42 N/A

Open Circuit
Peak Volt age

(max)

250 V
175 V
250 V

920 V

1485 V

3050 V
3625 V

* An indication of a waveform’s ability to coagulate bleeders without a cutting effect.

Open Circuit

P–P Voltage

(max)

500 V
350 V
500 V

1840 V
2970 V

6100 V
7250 V

Rated Load

(max)

100 Ω
100 Ω
100 Ω

300 Ω
300 Ω

500 Ω
500 Ω

Power

(max)

95 W
95 W
95 W

300 W
200 W

120 W
120 W

Crest

Factor*

1.42

1.42

1.42

1.42

2.7

5.55

6.6

Duty

Cycle

N/A
N/A
N/A

N/A

50%

6.5%

4.6%

4-16 ForceTriad Service Manual

Output Characteristics

Available Power Settings in Watts

Bipolar and Autobipolar (all modes)

12345678910
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90
95

Monopolar Cut

12345678910
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90
95 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180

190 200 210 220 230 240 250 260 270 280
290 300

Technical Specifications

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-17

Output Characteristics

Valleylab

12345678910
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90
95 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180

190 200

Monopolar Coag

12345678910
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90
95 100 110 120

4-18 ForceTriad Service Manual

Output Characteristics

Output Waveforms

Tissue Sensing Technology, an automatic adjustment, controls all modes. As
tissue resistance increases from zero, the energy platform outputs constant current
followed by constant power followed by constant voltage. The maximum output
voltage is controlled to reduce capacitive coupling and video interference and to
minimize sparking.

Bipolar

Low 472 kHz sinusoid continuous

Standard 472 kHz sinusoid continuous

Macro 472 kHz sinusoid continuous

Monopolar Cut

Cut 472 kHz sinusoid continuous

Blend 472 kHz bursts of sinusoid, recurring at 26 .21 kHz

intervals. 50% duty cycle.

Valleylab

Valleylab 472 kHz bursts of sinusoid, recurring at 28 .3 kHz

intervals. 25% duty cycle.

Monopolar Coag

Fulgurate 472 kHz damped sinusoidal bursts with a repetition

frequency of 30.66 kHz. 6.5% duty cycle.

Spray 472 kHz damped sinusoidal bursts with a randomized

repetition centered at 21.7 kHz. 4.6% duty cycle.

Technical Specifications

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-19

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Monopolar Graphs

Output power versus impedance
for Pure power

Output power (watts)

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Pure power

Load Resistance (ohms)

Output power versus power
setting for Pure power

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

4-20 ForceTriad Service Manual

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Pure power

Output power versus impedance
for Blend power

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Blend power

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Peak Voltage

Technical Specifications

Load Resistance (ohms)

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-21

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

0 1000 2000 3000 4000

Output power versus power
setting for Blend power

Peak voltage versus power
setting for Blend power

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

Output power versus impedance
for Fulgurate power

4-22 ForceTriad Service Manual

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Peak voltage versus impedance

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000

for Fulgurate power

Output power versus power setting
for Fulgurate power

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Fulgurate power

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-23

Output power (watts)

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

Technical Specifications

Power Setting

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

4000

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000

Output power versus impedance
for Spray power

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Spray power

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Output power versus power
setting for Spray power

4-24 ForceTriad Service Manual

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Spray power

Output power versus impedance
for Valleylab power

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Valleylab power

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Technical Specifications

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-25

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Output power versus power setting
for Valleylab power

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Valleylab power

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

4-26 ForceTriad Service Manual

Output power versus impedance
for Bipolar Low power

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Bipolar Low power

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Bipolar Graphs

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Output power versus power setting
for Bipolar Low power

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

Technical Specifications

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-27

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Bipolar Low power

Output power versus impedance
for Bipolar Standard power

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Bipolar Standard power

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

4-28 ForceTriad Service Manual

Output power versus power setting
for Bipolar Standard power

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Bipolar Standard power

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

Output power versus impedance
for Bipolar Macro power

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

Technical Specifications

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-29

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Peak voltage versus impedance
for Bipolar Macro power

Output power versus power setting
for Bipolar Macro power

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

Peak voltage versus power setting
for Bipolar Macro power

Output power (watts)

Power Setting

Peak Voltage

Power Setting

4-30 ForceTriad Service Manual

Output power versus impedance
for LigaSure power

Peak voltage versus impedance
for LigaSure power

Output Power vs. Resistance Graphs

Output power (watts)

Load Resistance (ohms)

Current versus impedance for
LigaSure power

Peak Voltage

Load Resistance (ohms)

Current

Technical Specifications

Load Resistance (ohms)

ForceTriad Service Manual 4-31

4-32 ForceTriad Service Manual

Principles of Operation

This chapter provides detailed information about how the
ForceTriad energy platform functions and how the internal
components interact.

Chapter

5

This chapter includes the following information:

• A block diagram that illustrates how the energy platform functions

• A general description of how the generator works

• Detailed descriptions of the circuitry for the printed PCBAs

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-1

Block Diagram

Block Diagram

5-2 ForceTriad Service Manual

Functional Overview

Functional Overview

The ForceTriad electrosurgical generator system is a combination of a full­featured general surgery electrosurgical unit and a LigaSure vessel sealing
system. The monopolar and bipolar sections of the ForceTriad are isolated
electrosurgical outputs that provide the appropriate power for cutting, desiccating,
and fulgurating tissue during monopolar and bipolar surgery. The LigaSure
section of the ForceTriad provides power for vessel sealing.

During monopolar electrosurgery, radio frequency (RF) current flows from the
generator to an active electrode, which delivers the current to the patient. The
resistance to the current, provided by the patient’s tissue and/or the air between
the active electrode and the tissue, produces the heat that is necessary for the
surgical effect. The RF current flows from the active electrode, through the
patient’s body tissue to the return electrode, which recovers the current and
returns it to the generator.

The LigaSure vessel sealing system provides precise energy delivery and
electrode pressure to vessels for a controlled time period to achieve a complete
and permanent fusion of the vessel lumen.

TissuFect Tissue Sensing Technology

The ForceTriad generator automatically senses resistance and adjusts the output
voltage to maintain a consistent tissue effect across different tissue impedance.
This adjustment is based on the selected mode, the power setting, and the level of
tissue resistance.

Principles of Operation

REM Contact Quality Monitoring System

The ForceTriad generator uses the Valleylab REM Contact Quality Monitoring
system to monitor the quality of electrical contact between the patient return
electrode and the patient. The REM system is designed to minimize the risk of
burns at the return electrode site during monopolar electrosurgery.

When you connect a REM patient return electrode to the Patient Return Electrode
receptacle, you activate the REM system. When you activate monopolar output,
the generator connects the patient return electrode path. If you activate bipolar
output while a return electrode is connected to the patient, the return electrode
circuit is deactivated automatically to eliminate the possibility of current
dispersal.

The REM system continuously measures resistance at the return electrode site and
compares it to a standard range of safe resistance (between 5 and 135 ohms), thus
minimizing intermittent false alarms that could result from small changes in
resistance. The REM system also adapts to individual patients by measuring the
initial contact resistance (baseline resistance) between the patient and the patient
return electrode. If the tissue impedance at the return electrode decreases during
electrosurgery, the REM system resets the baseline resistance.

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-3

High Voltage DC (HVDC) Power Supply Principles of Operation

REM Alarm Activation

The REM Alarm indicator flashes red, a tone sounds, and the generator stops
producing output power when either of the following occurs:

• The measured resistance is below 5 ohms or above 135 ohms, the limits of the
standard range of safe resistance.

• An increase in contact resistance is greater than 40% from the initial
measurement (baseline resistance).

The REM Alarm indicator remains illuminated red until you correct the condition
causing the alarm. Then, the indicator illuminates green and RF output is enabled.

Electrodes Without the REM Safety Feature

Return electrodes without the REM safety feature should not be used on the
ForceTriad energy platform.

High Voltage DC (HVDC) Power Supply Principles of Operation

The HVDC power supply will regulate an output DC voltage to a desired level
that is proportional to a 0 to 5V analog logic signal called Voltage Control
(ECON). The AC input range is 85VAC to 264VAC with line frequencies from
47Hz to 63Hz. The HVDC can be simplified into two sections, the AC section
and DC section.

The AC section rectifies the AC input into the rectified +Bus and –Bus voltages.
For line voltages of 150VA C or less, the rectified AC voltage is doubled. The
rectified voltage is monitored and will be flagged if the voltage starts to drop too
low or if the rectified voltage exceeds 400VDC. As a safety feature, the HVDC
will be shut down when it exceeds 400VDC. The AC section also incorporates a
soft start circuit that will reduce the inrush AC current at power up.

The DC section is a phase-shifted full-bridge typology and uses a Pulse Width
Modulator (PWM) from Texas Instruments, part number UCC3895. For
information on this particular typology, the data sheet (available at ti.com) for
this part contains a full dialogue of the theory of operation. The DC section
consists of limits that help protect the HVDC from fault conditions. These limits
include over voltage, over current, over power, and short circuit. Each limit sends
a flag to the controller card if it is triggered and will shut down the HVDC.
Another feature of the HVDC is an active discharge circuit; this circuit will place
a load across the output. This allows the output of the HVDC to discharge quickly
no matter what the load attached to the HVDC.

5-4 ForceTriad Service Manual

RF Principles of Operation

RF Principles of Operation

The primary purpose of the ForceTriad RF PCBA is to convert the DC voltage
coming from the HVDC PCBA into a 470 KHz RF signal that is sent to the
Steering Relay PCBA to be distributed to the appropriate output. A push-pull
typology is used to accomplish this voltage conversion. Two gate drive signals
that are 180° out of phase are used to drive the high voltage Field Effect
Transistors (FETs), called T ON and T ON 180. The gate drive signals turn on
each of the FETs at opposite times to deliver a waveform at the specified power
requested from the user. The RF PCBA is capable of several different outputs
ranging from 5.5Arms in LigaSure tissue fusion modes to over 7KVpp in coag
modes. Relays throughout the RF PCBA switch in the appropriate tuning
elements required to achieve these various outputs.

Primary and redundant sense circuits detect the RF output voltage and current. An
accurate scaled down AC voltage representative of each of these is sent to the
Controller PCBA, which in turn will keep the output at levels appropriate for the
mode in use. Four sense relays per circuit correspond to specific modes and
switch in voltage dividers tuned to divide the output signals to levels that are
manageable for the Controller card. Three relays per voltage sense circuit divide
down the output voltages from 425Vpk - 5000Vpk to around 1Vpk, depending on
the mode selected by the user. The current sensors use 1 relay per circuit; this
relay kicks in for currents higher than 1Arms. The sensor signals are passed
through a multiplier which uses a gain control signal from the controller card.
After this multiplier stage, the signal is filtered and routed to the controller card.
RF voltage and current foldback circuits use the ranges selected on the sensors to
determine if a limit has been hit. These circuits will foldback the ECON signal
going to the HVDC, reducing the DC output to the RF PCBA. This in turn reduces
the RF output amplitude.

Principles of Operation

REM

The Return Electrode Monitor (REM) circuit monitors the resistance between the
two return areas on a REM electrode using a 140 KHZ signal generated by the
controller card.

Autobipolar

The Autobipolar (ABP) circuit consists of an 80 KHz signal, also generated by the
controller card. It is used to monitor the bipolar output impedance.

Leakage Current Monitor

The RF PCBA also features a leakage current monitor circuit, which measures the
active and return of the generator and puts out a DC voltage that represents the
difference between the two. If this voltage exceeds a limit, the RF will be folded
back to prevent excess leakage current.

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-5

RF Principles of Operation

Sensor Circuit

The sensor circuit provides RF output voltage and current monitoring to software
in order to deliver the correct energy dosage during a surgical procedure. Two
identical sensory circuit paths, composed of a primary and backup, are
implemented to provide fail-safe mitigation in the event of circuit failure. Since
each primary and backup sensor circuit mirrors the other, the sensed output
voltages, which are monitored by software, are equal when the sensory system
maintains proper operation. In the event of primary or backup sense circuit
failure, dissimilar outputs are present and software detection stops delivery of RF
and notifies the user with an error message displayed on the front panel of the
ForceTriad generator.

Each primary and backup sensory circuit consists of four processing elements to
ensure that the correct RF is delivered. In the description that follows, the primary
sensory path is identified for the voltage sense circuitry, with reference
designation only provided to the backup circuit. Backup circuit operation is
identical to the primary circuit that is described here. RF current sense circuit
process is symmetrical to the voltage sense description in that it also uses four
processing elements. The only notable difference between voltage and current
sensing is the different transfer gains required to adequately address the dynamic
range of individual generator operating modes.

First: Transformer T6, along with resistors R110 and R119, provide RF output
voltage monitoring by generating a proportionatel y scal ed, secondary sense
voltage, which is correlated to the delivered RF output voltage. Backup
referenced components are T1, R95, and R111.

Second: Coupled to the secondary of transformer T6, a software controlled
switched pad network is implemented to provide proper impedance scaling to
address the dynamic sensory range required for all operating modes of the
ForceTriad generator. This pad impedance switched network is used to develop
the proportionately scaled secondary sense voltage of T6. Resistors R103 and
R107 provide the initial impedance termination, paralleled by resistor paired
components R104 and R105, R94 and R106, and R85 and R100, which are
switched independent on the selected generator Cut, Blend, and Coag operating
modes respectively. Paired resistor switching is accomplished by electronic
switch components RL12, RL11, and RL10 respectively. Backup referenced
terminating components are R89 and R93; paired components are R90 and R91,
R88 and R92, and R81 and R84; and switch components are RL9, RL8, and RL7,
which are used respectively.

Third: The Pad network output of T6 is then differentially fed to a gain control
module, U18, which provides continuous gain control to normalize the sensed
voltage output, independent of generator operating modes and delivered RF
power levels. Amplifier, U19, buffers the signal received from software which is
used to precisely control the gain of U18, while amplifier U17 provides a scaled
differential output voltage, a result of U18 gain processing. Backup referenced
components are gain control module U40, buffer amp U31, and difference amp
U30 respectively.

Fourth: The output of amplifier U17 is now delivered to the last stage for sensory
signal processing. An anti-alias filter device, U16, receives the difference signal
from U17, providing 4th order low pass filtering of the RF, to attenuate spurious
harmonic frequency components above 2.5 MHz. Resistors R123 and R126 set
the gain of U16 to unity. The last stage of sensor processing provides a twofold
benefit to the RF monitored output; it increases the accuracy of the delivered RF

5-6 ForceTriad Service Manual

by minimizing the corruptive influence of high frequency noise to the sensed
signals, above the operating frequency of the generator. Secondly, the high fourth­order filter of U16 prevents the generation of alias frequency components caused
by sampling theorem errors when the sensed signal information is processed by
software. Backup components U29, R190, and R216 are used.

Steering Relay PCBA Principles of Operation

To accommodate the need for high isolation between the patient and ground
referenced voltages during use, the ForceTriad Steering Relay PCBA design
incorporates several different types of relays designed for very high voltage
standoff. In addition, cut-outs on the PCBA increase distances at strategic
locations to help reduce creepage issues.

Multiple functions are performed by the Steering Relay PCBA. The main function
is to route the 470 KHz from the RF PCBA to one of the six outputs. The outputs
are as follows: Ligasure 1, Ligasure 2, Bipolar, Mono 1, Mono 2, and Footswitch
Controlled outputs. Because only one output can be active at any given time, the
Steering Relay PCBA plays an important role in maintaining the isolation
between all the outputs and their respective circuits. During mono and footswitch
modes, a return path, called Mono return, is required. Mono return is monitored
with a Return Electrode Monitor (REM) circuit. This circuit monitors the
resistance between the two return areas on a REM electrode. The actual REM
circuit is on the RF PCBA, but this 140 KHz signal is routed through the Steering
Relay PCBA to the Mono return. Another signal that is routed from the RF PCBA
to the Steering Relay PCBA is the Autobipolar (ABP) signal. This 80 KHz signal
monitors the bipolar output impedance.

Steering Relay PCBA Principles of Operation

Principles of Operation

Another important function of the Steering Relay PCBA is hand-switching
detection. The circuits used to detect hand-switching requests are powered from
individual, highly isolated power supplies. These power supplies use transformers
that convert ground referenced +12V to an isolated +8V or +5V, each referenced
to its corresponding output. Five handswitching power supplies are available:
Ligasure 1, Ligasure 2, Bipolar, Mono 1, and Mono 2. When an active hand
switch signal is detected, the detection signal is transferred across an optocoupler
and is sent to the microprocessor.

The final function of this PCBA is footswitch and bipolar sense. These circuits
determine if an instrument is connected to any of the receptacles.

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-7

Circuit Descriptions for the Force Triad Display PCBA

Circuit Descriptions for the Force Triad Display PCBA

Hotlink Transceiver U1

The Cypress Hotlink II transceiver U1 handles all communications between the
Display PCBAs Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) U28 and the Controller
PCBA. As configured for the serial link in ForceTriad energy platform, it takes an
8-bit data bus, 2-bit control bus, and 50 MHz clock input, performs 8b/10b
encoding and transmits differential serial data at 500 Mbps. On the receive side it
accepts the 500 Mbps serial stream; recovers the embedded clock; performs 10b/
8b decoding, byte alignment, and error detection; and outputs a 50 MHz 8-bit data
bus with 3 bits of receive status/control data. A single IC handles bi-directional
communication.

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Driver Inside the FPGA U28

The LCD driver receives video data from the Controller PCBA and outputs it to
the displays. Data is written into a 16-pixel deep First In/First Out (FIFO) when
received from the serial link. Data is read out of the FIFO and presented to the
displays at the pixel rate. For the ForceTriad energy platform, the pixel rate is
~4.8 MHz (generated by dividing the receive clock by 16) yielding a display
refresh rate of ~46 Hz. In either case, the pixel rate must be derived from the
receive clock to keep the display output in sync with the display data generation
on the Controller PCBA and prevent overflowing or under flowing of the pixel
FIFO.

Touchscreen Driver

Reading user input from the touchscreens is performed by the touchscreen driver.
Three touchscreens are attached to the Display PCBA, each through its own 5­wire interface. The touchscreen driver polls each screen in turn to determine
whether the user is pressing on it. If so, then the X and Y position of the touch are
detected. On the Force Triad Display PCBA, load switching FETs are used to
drive voltages onto the four electrical drive connections, and the voltage on the
sense connection is read by an Analog Digital Converter (ADC) U4. The drive
circuitry normally drives +3.3V to all four drive connections, while the sense
connection is pulled weakly to ground. The FPGA repeatedly reads the analog
voltage on the sense line. As long as it is closer to ground than to +3.3V, it
registers a “no touch” read. If, however, the sense line is closer to +3.3V than to
ground, it initiates a read cycle. In the read cycle, the FPGA first applies +3.3V to
the X and (right side) drive connections and ground to the Y and L (left side)
drive connections. The voltage on the sense line is sampled to obtain the X
position. Then, the Y and (top side) drive connection are driven to +3.3V while
the X and L (bottom side) drive connections are grounded. The sense line voltage
is recorded as the Y position. This process is repeated for each of the three
touchscreens. The current state of each display (no touch or XY position) is
reported to the Controller PCBA at a rate of at least 200 Hz.

5-8 ForceTriad Service Manual

LCD Brightness DAC Control

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

The brightness for each Quarter Video Graphics Array (QVGA) display can be
controlled individually by feeding an analog value between 0 and 5V to its
inverter. This is accomplished by use of a Digital/Analog Converter (DAC) U24.
The LCD brightness DAC control block takes DAC values from the serial link
and writes them to the DAC.

Barcode Driver

The Display PCBA supports communication with four barcode readers through a
quad-Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) U14. One channel
of the serial interface side of the UART is connected to each barcode reader , while
the control side is connected to the display FPGA. The barcode driver reads data
bytes out of the UART as they are received from the barcode readers and sends
them to the Controller PCBA. It also writes data and control bytes to the UAR T as
specified by the Controller PCBA.

PCBA ID Transmitter

The FPGA pulls the PCBA ID Transmitter U22 every time a new screen is sent to
the Display PCBA from the Controller PCBA. The PCBA ID for the Display
PCBA is 7 this set up by tying pins 1, 2, and 3 of U22 to 3.3 volts.

Principles of Operation

Power Supply

The power supply is dual DC to DC converter U16. The power supply has an
input of 5 Volts and converts it down to 3.3 and 1.8 Volts outputs.

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

Overview

The primary function of the audio circuitry is to receive commands from the
Interface Control Logic (ICL) FPGA on the Controller PCBA via a serial, two­wire SMBus data link. The FPGA on this PCBA processes that data to determine
three parameters; wave file, volume, and duration. Based on these parameters, the
FPGA accesses corresponding parallel data from flash memory, serializes it and
passes it out to the DAC. Control data is also passed to the DAC that sets the
volume level of the output amplifier stage. Footswitch data is collected and sent to
the Controller PCBA as well. Finally, the expansion port has an RS-232 and EKG/
blanking relay interface that connects directly to the Controller PCBA and DAC
controlled by this FPGA. The following diagram illustrates signal interconnect.

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-9

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

Power Supplies

This PCBA requires 2 power supplies: 5V and 12V. From those input voltages it
also generates 2.5V, 3.3V, and isolated supplies of +12V, -12V and +5V. 5V and
12V are delivered to this PCBA via the RF PCBA connector. The 2.5V and 3.3V
supplies are regulated down from the 5V supply on this PCBA. The 5V rail
should draw approximately 100mA. The 12V rail should draw approximately
500mA at full volume with no expansion port peripherals connected. The 12V
supply is used by the audio amplifier, TPA1517, and also generates all of the
isolated power supplies. The isolated power supply can source approximately
250mA on each, +12V ISO and -12V ISO, and 500mA on +5V ISO.

5-10 ForceTriad Service Manual

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

Voltage Testpoint

+5V J6

+12V J11

+3.3V TP3

+2.5V TP1

DGND J8, J9, J10

+12 ISO TP24

-12V ISO TP25

+5V ISO TP26

ISO GND (IGND) TP16

Clocks Testpoint

AUDIO DAC CLK (11.28 MHz) TP2

FPGA CLK (12.00 MHz) TP5

Principles of Operation

Communications

All communications between the Controller PCBA and the Footswi tch/Audio
PCBA are conducted over a two-wire System Management Bus (SMBus). Two
SMBuses are in this design. The audio SMBus is for communications between the
host Controller PCBA (master) and Footswitch/Audio PCBA. The ID SMBus is a
shared bus between all the PCBAs in the system and is used for PCBA
identification purposes. The master of this bus is the Controller PCBA.

The audio SMBus uses a Valleylab-specific data link layer in which all data
communications involve addressing a register within the FPGA and then either
writing or reading four bytes of data to/from it. Each register is 32-bits wide, and
SMBus communications send one byte at a time, thus four bytes of data must be
written or read. Technically more than four bytes can be sent, but they will be
ignored. The ID SMBus again uses a Valleylab-specific data protocol but instead
of 4-byte data transactions, it uses 8-byte data transactions because the PCBA IDs
are 64-bits wide.

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-11

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

Audio Data

Three commands can be received from the Controller PCBA; reset, parameter
write and parameter read. The reset command resets all internal state machines
inside the FPGA. It will also immediately stop a running audio stream. The
parameter commands allow the controller to write and read three internal
parameters that control sending out audio data.

These parameters are wave file, duration, and volume. The wave file parameter
selects a particular wave file in the flash memory by selecting a base memory
address from a look up table. The duration parame ter selects how many times to
repeat the wave file. Since each wave file is a fixed length, that file can be
repeated up to 30 times, or it can be told to be sent out continuously until another
command is received. Finally, the volume parameter simply selects a volume
level between 0 (mute) and 1024 (highest volume, approx. 60dBA).

When a command is received, the FPGA processes that command only once. For
example, if a particular wave file is selected to be played twice, the FPGA will
play that wave file twice and then stop until a new command is received. If a
wave file is to be played continuously, it can be set via the duration field.

The parameter read command allows for the controller to read back the last
parameters written into the FPGA. This is primarily for debug purposes.

Footswitch Data

Footswitch data is polled in this FPGA and, when a footswitch register read is
received from the ICL FPGA, the footswitch register data is sent to the ICL
FPGA and then cleared. After being cleared, the FPGA immediately polls the
footswitches for new footswitch activations. If an activation is detected, the
FPGA holds a corresponding bit in the footswitch register until it is read by the
ICL FPGA, even if the footswitch is depressed before that event occurs.

Expansion Port DAC Data

The ICL FPGA sends DAC data to this FPGA, which is then serialized and sent
out to the expansion port DACs. Four DAC registers can be written to in this
FPGA; each corresponds to a RF statistic: power, current, voltage, and load
impedance.

Flash Memory

The flash memory can be expanded from a 2 MB flash to a 4 MB flash without a
re-layout of the PCBA. Flash data is 16-bits wide and 1024 K deep. All wave files
are stored in the flash memory. The wave files, when stored in the flash, are
stripped of all header information, and a wave length field is appended to the
beginning of each file. This length is the number of 16-bit words in the wave file.

5-12 ForceTriad Service Manual

DAC Amplifier

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

The DAC is an Analog Device AD1854. It is controlled by two serial interfaces.
One interface streams left and right channel audio data. The other interface sends
control data to the DAC, including amplification settings. The volume parameter
is passed directly to the DAC via this interface. The amplifier is an Analog Device
TPA1517. It is a 6-watt amplifier and runs off 12 volts. For both the DAC and the
amplifier, only one of the two channels is used since the Footswitch/Audio PCBA
only has one speaker.

Isolated Footswitch and Expansion Port Circuitry

The footswitch circuit provides an isolated footswitch detection circuit that passes
footswitch data directly to this PCBA’s FPGA. The FPGA, as noted above, polls
the footswitches for activations. The expansion port has an EKG/blanking relay
that is directly controlled by the Controller PCBA. The expansion port also has an
RS-232 interface that links directly to the controller. And finally, it has a DAC
that outputs analog data that corresponds to RF parameters.

Principles of Operation

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-13

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

FPGA Design

The FPGA has 10 significant pieces of circuitry as shown in the following figure.
Each piece is described below.

5-14 ForceTriad Service Manual

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

Signal Name Direction Description

CLK INPUT 12MHz System Input Clock

ID SDA BI-DIRECTIONAL

ID SCL INPUT SMBus Clock for PCBA ID SMBus, 100KHz

AUDIO SDA BI-DIRECTIONAL

AUDIO SCL INPUT SMBus Clock for Audio SMBus, 100KHz

F ADDR [21:0] OUTPUT Flash Address Lines

F DATA [15:0] INPUT Flash Data Lines

F OE OUTPUT Flash Output Enable, Active Low

F CE OUTPUT Flash Chip Enable, Active Low

F WE OUTPUT Flash Write Enable, Active Low

F nRESET OUTPUT Flash Reset

F nBYTE OUTPUT Low Selects Byte Mode, High = Word Mode

CLATCH OUTPUT

Bi-Dir. SMBus data line for sending PCBA ID data
between all PCBAs. Controller PCBA is the Master.

Bi-Dir SMBus data line for sending data between
Controller PCBA and FS/AUDIO PCBA. Controller
PCBA is the Master.

Latches control data into the DAC. This output is
rising-edge sensitive to the DAC.

Principles of Operation

CCLK OUTPUT

CDATA OUTPUT

DAC 384 n256 OUTPUT

X2MCLK OUTPUT

DEEMP OUTPUT Digital de-emphasis is enabled when this signal is HI

DAC 96 n48 OUTPUT

DAC MUTE OUTPUT

DAC nPD RST OUTPUT

L nR CLK OUTPUT Selects left or right channel of DAC for serial data

SDATA OUTPUT

Control clock output for control data. Data is latched
into DAC on rising edge of this signal.

Serial control data output, MSB first, containing 16
bits of unsigned data per channel. Used for specifying
channel-specific attenuation and mute.

Selects the master clock mode as either 384 times
the intended sample frequency (High) or 256 times
the intended sample frequency (Low)

Low = 2xMCLK for DAC,
High = 1x MCLK for DAC

Selects 48 kHz (LO) or 96 kHz Sample Frequency
Control

HI to mutes both stereo analog outputs. Deassert LO
for normal operation

The AD1854 is placed in a low power consumption
mode when this pin is held LO. The AD1854 is reset
on the rising edge of this signal.

Serial output audio data, MSB first, containing two
channels of 16-bits of twos complement data per
channel

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-15

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Circuitry Description

Signal Name Direction Description

BCLK OUTPUT Latches serial audio data into DAC

Exp dac clr l OUTPUT

Exp dac cs ld l OUTPUT

Exp dac sck OUTPUT

Exp dac sdi OUTPUT

FS REG[14:0] INPUT

Asynchronous clear output. A logic low at this
level-triggered output clears all registers and causes
the Exp. Port DAC voltage outputs to drop to 0V.

Serial Interface Chip Select/Load Output.
When this signal is low, SCK is enabled for shifting
data on SDI into the Exp. Port DAC register.

Serial Interface Clock to Exp. Port DAC. This clock
latches serial data into the DAC.

Serial Interface Data Output to Exp. Port DAC. Data is
applied to SDI for transfer to the DAC at the rising
edge of SCK. The LTC2624 accepts input word
lengths of 24 bits.

Active high footswitch inputs. A high signal here
indicates a footswitch activation.

5-16 ForceTriad Service Manual

Controller PCBA

Controller PCBA

Principles of Operation

Controller Block Diagram

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-17

Controller PCBA

Host Processor

The host has FLASH, SDRAM, and SRAM memory blocks. All memory devices
are directly connected to the address and data bus. The SRAM is a battery-backed
device that also supports the system’s real-time clock function. The host
processor is also capable of external communication through two RS232 ports, an
Ethernet port, and a USB port. The host processor is to have a four clk cycle wait
state for a read access to the ICL.

Digital Signal Processor (DSP) Controlled Data Converters

DSP1

The first Analog Devices ADSP-21161N DSP is the main control system
processor. Its primary responsibility is control of the High Voltage Power Supply
(HVPS) setting (via an on-board DAC), as well as the keying signal for the FR
FETs (T_ON, T_ON_180). It also reads a set of voltage and current sensors that
complete the feedback loop of the control system. DSP1 has FLASH and
SDRAM memories directly connected to its address and data bus. DSP1 is to
have four wait states for a read access to the ICL.

DSP2

The second 21161 in the system is the dosage-error processor . It reads a redundant
set of the same sensors that DSP1 reads. Through a direct-connect serial channel
(or through the ICL), the two DSPs are able to compare sensor results. DSP2 has
FLASH and SDRAM memories directly connected to its address and data bus.
DSP2 is to have four wait states for a read access to the ICL.

Interface Control Logic PLD

The purpose of the ICL is to act as Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL ) for the
processors. Those peripherals not directly connected to the processors are
connected to the ICL and the data transfers appear as 32-bit registers for the
processors to read or write. The ICL also provides a communication channel for
the three processors via a tri-port RAM. The peripherals connected to the ICL are:

• Footswitch/Audio PCBA

• PCBA ID bus

• Display PCBA (LCDs, barcode readers, and touchscreens)

• Low Voltage Power Supply (LVPS) power fail circuit

• REM and HVPS sensor circuits

•RF relays

5-18 ForceTriad Service Manual

Data Converters

Controller PCBA

There are four high-speed Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) on the PCBA for
voltage and current sensor data. There is also one slow-speed ADC for reading
REM voltage as well as the HVPS output. There are three Digital-to-Analog
Converters (DACs) on the PCBA as well. One DAC is not used. The other two
DACs are used by the DSPs to drive the gain of their respective voltage and
current sensors. DSP1’s DAC also drives the voltage level of the HVPS. The
following figures show how the on-board and off-board data converters are
connected.

DSP-Controlled Data Converters

Principles of Operation

ICL-Controlled Data Converters

External Peripherals

The Controller PCBA has ports for talking to external peripherals through the
following protocols: RS232, USB 1.1, and Ethernet.

ForceTriad Service Manual 5-19

5-20 ForceTriad Service Manual

Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

After unpacking or after servicing the ForceTriad energy platform,
set it up and verify that it functions correctly.

Chapter

6

If the generator does not satisfactorily complete the self-test,
calibrate it to ensure its accuracy.

ForceTriad Service Manual 6-1

Setting Up the Generator

Setting Up the Generator

Warning

Electric Shock Hazard Connect the generator power cord to a properly

grounded receptacle. Do not use power plug adapters.

Fire Hazard Do not use extension cords.

Caution

Do not stack equipment on top of the generator or place the generator on top of
electrical equipment. These configurations are unstable and/or do not allow for
adequate cooling.

Provide as much distance as possible between the electrosurgical generator and
other electronic equipment (such as monitors). An activated electrosurgical
generator may cause interference with them.

Notice

If required by local codes, connect the generator to the hospital equalization
connector with an equipotential cable.

Connect the power cord to a wall outlet having the correct voltage. Otherwise
product damage may result.

1. Verify the generator is off by pressing the power switch off (O).

2. Place the generator on a stable flat surface, such as a table, platform, or

Valleylab cart. Carts with conductive wheels are recommended. For details,
refer to the procedures for your institution or to local codes.

Provide at least four to six inches of space from the sides and top of the
generator for cooling. Normally, the top, sides, and rear panel are warm when
the generator is used continuously for extended periods of time.

Ensure that the generator rests securely on the cart or platform. The underside
of the generator contains four rubber feet and additional holes that allow you
to reposition the feet to ensure stability. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove
the rubber feet from the generator. Then, reinstall the feet in the preferred
location.

3. According to the procedures used by your institution, connect an equipotential

grounding cable to the grounding lug on the rear panel of the generator. Then,
connect the cable to earth ground.

4. Plug the generator power cord into the rear panel receptacle.

5. Plug the generator power cord into a grounded receptacle.

6. Turn on the generator by pressing the power switch on (|). Verify the

following:

• All visual indicators and displays on the front panel illuminate

• Activation tones sound to verify that the speaker is working properly

6-2 ForceTriad Service Manual

Periodic Safety Check

Periodic Safety Check

7. If the self-test is successful, a tone sounds. Verify the following:

• The three LCD touch screens illuminate and show the appropriate
operating screen.

• Each display shows a power setting of one watt.

• The REM alarm indicator illuminates red.

8. If the self-test is not successful, an alarm tone sounds. An error screen appears

on each of the LCD touchscreens. Note the information on this display and
refer to Chapter 6, Troubleshooting.

Perform the following safety check every six months to verify that the generator is
functioning properly. Record the test results for reference in future tests. If the
generator fails to meet any of the checks, refer to Chapter 6, Troubleshooting.

Warning

Electric Shock Hazard - When taking measurements or troubleshooting the
generator, take appropriate precautions, such as using isolated tools and
equipment, using the “one hand rule, etc.

Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

Electric Shock Hazard - Do not touch any exposed wiring or conductive
surfaces while the generator is disassembled and energized. Never wear a
grounding strap when working on an energized generator.

Caution

The generator contains electrostatic-sensitive components. When repairing the
generator, work at a static-control workstation. Wear a grounding strap when
handling electrostatic-sensitive components, except when working on an
energized generator. Handle PCBAs by their nonconductive edges. Use an
antistatic container for transport of electrostatic-sensitive components and
PCBAs.

Important

When testing RF equipment, follow these test procedures to duplicate
manufacturer test data. Keep test leads to the minimum length usable; lead
inductance and stray capacitance can ad ve rse ly affect readings. Carefully select
suitable ground points to avoid ground loop error in measurements.

The accuracy of most RF instruments is approximately 1–5% of full scale. Using
uncompensated scope probes causes large errors when measuring high voltage
RF waveforms.

ForceTriad Service Manual 6-3

Periodic Safety Check

The summary of safety checks:

• Inspect the generator and accessories

• Inspect the internal components

• Test the generator

• Verify REM function

• Confirm outputs

• Check leakage current and ground resistance

Recommended Test Equipment

• Stylus pencil (for calibrating touch screen)

• 5, 10, 20, 30, 50, 100, 200, 300, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 ohm, all 250 watt,
1% tolerance, noinductive (Dale NH-250, or equivalent)

• Current transformer - Pearson model 411, or equivalent

• True RMS voltmeter - Fluke 8920A, or equivalent

• Decade resistance box (for REM testing)

•REM plug

• Oscilloscope - Tektronix 2445, or equivalent

• X10 and X100 oscilloscope probes

• X1000 high voltage probe

• Digital voltmeter (3.5 digit minimum)

• Handswitching electrosurgical pencils

• Force Triverse electrosurgical device (barcode)

• LigaSure instrument (dot code)

• Valleylab footswitch pedals (bipolar, monopolar, LigaSure)

• Potentiometer adjustment tool

• Low frequency test circuit

Inspecting the Generator and Accessories

Equipment required:

• Bipolar footswitch or monopolar footswitch

• Bipolar instrument cords (handswitching and footswitching)

• Monopolar instrument cords (handswitching and footswitchin g)

• LigaSure instrument cords (handswitching and footswitching)

Turn off the generator, and disconnect the power cord from the wall receptacle.

6-4 ForceTriad Service Manual

Periodic Safety Check

Rear Panel

1. Check the rear panel footswitch receptacles for obstructions or damage. Check

for a secure fit by inserting the bipolar footswitch or monopolar footswitch
connector into the appropriate receptacle.

2. Remove the fuse and verify correct voltage and current rating. Refer to

Performance Characteristics in Chapter 9.

3. If either connection is loose, replace the Footswitch/Audio PCBA. Refer to

Footswitch/Audio PCBA Replacement in Chapter 7.

Front Panel

1. Check the Universal Footswitching Port (UFP) for obstructions or damage.

Check for a secure fit by inserting the monopolar footswitch connector into
the receptacle. Verify the UFP properly detects in strument insertion.

If the connection is loose, replace the receptacle. Refer to Output Receptacle
Replacement in Chapter 7.

2. Check the Bipolar instrument receptacle for obstructions or damage. Insert the

bipolar instrument connector (footswitching and handswitching) into the
appropriate receptacle to verify a secure fit. Verify the Bipolar instrument
receptacle properly detects instrument insertion.

Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

If the connection is loose, replace the receptacle assembly. Refer to Output
Receptacle Replacement in Chapter 7.

3. Check the Monopolar instrument receptacles for obstructions or damage.

Insert the Monopolar instrument connector into the appropriate receptacle to
verify a secure fit. Ensure the barcode readers detect and read the
handswitching electrosurgical pencil and Force Triverse electrosurgical
device.

If any of the connections are loose, replace the receptacle assembly. Refer to
Output Receptacle Replacement in Chapter 7.

4. Check the Patient Return Electrode receptacle for a broken pin or an

obstruction.
If the receptacle is damaged or obstructed, replace the receptacle assembly.

Refer to Output Receptacle Replacement in Chapter 7.

5. Check the LigaSure instrument receptacles for obstructions or damage. Insert

the LigaSure instrument connector into the appropriate receptacle to ensure a
secure fit. Verify the barcode readers detect and read the LigaSure instrument.

If any of the connections are loose, replace the receptacle assembly. Refer to
Output Receptacle Replacement in Chapter 7.

Footswitches

1. Remove the footswitch from the generator.

2. Inspect the connector for damage or corrosion.

3. Inspect the footswitch for damage.

4. Reconnect the footswitch to the generator.

ForceTriad Service Manual 6-5

Periodic Safety Check

Power Cord

1. Remove the power cord from the unit and ensure that it is unplugged from the

wall receptacle.

2. Inspect the power cord for damage.

3. Reconnect the power cord to the generator and wall receptacle.

Inspecting the Internal Components

Equipment required:

• Phillips screwdriver

Caution

The generator contains electrostatic-sensitive components. When repairing the
generator, work at a static-control workstation. Wear a grounding strap when
handling electrostatic-sensitive components, except when working on an
energized generator. Handle PCBAs by their nonconductive edges. Use an
antistatic container for transport of electrostatic-sensitive components and
PCBAs.

1. Turn off the generator.

2. Remove the four screws that secure the cover to the chassis. Lift the cover off

the chassis. Set the cover aside for reinstallation.

3. Verify that all connectors are firmly seated.

4. Inspect each PCBA for damaged components, wires, cracks, and corrosion.

• If you find evidence of damage on the Controller PCBA, Steering Relay

PCBA, Display PCBA, or Footswitch/Audio PCBA, replace the PCBA.
Refer to Controller PCBA Replacement, Steering Relay PCBA

Replacement, Display PCBA Replacement, or Footswitch/Audio PCBA
Replacement in Chapter 7.

• If you find evidence of damage on the HVDC Power Supply PCBA or the

RF PCBA, replace the PCBA only if the damage is severe. Refer to Power
HVDC Power Supply PCBA Replacement and RF PCBA Replacement in
Chapter 7.

5. Reinstall the cover on the generator. Position the cover above the chassis and

slide it down. Install the four screws that secure the cover to the chassis.

6-6 ForceTriad Service Manual

Periodic Safety Check

Testing the Generator

Turning on the generator initiates an internal self-test to verify the calibration. The
self-test also checks the operation of the speaker, all indicators, and the displays.

Warning

Use the generator only if the self-test has been completed as described.
Otherwise, inaccurate power outputs may result.

1. Turn on the generator by pressing the front panel On (|) switch. Verify the

following:

• All visual indicators and displays on the front panel illuminate.

• Activation tones sound to verify that the speaker is working properly.

2. If the self-test is successful, a tone sounds. Verify the following:

• The three LCD touch screens illuminate and show the appropriate
operating screen.

• Each display shows a power setting of one watt.

• The REM alarm indicator illuminates red.

3. If the self-test is not successful, an alarm tone sounds. An error screen appears

on each of the LCD touchscreens. Note the information on this display and
refer to Chapter 6, Troubleshooting.

Verifying REM Function

Equipment required:

• REM plug and resistance substitution box

1. Set the resistance substitution box to 120 ohms. Connect the resistance box to

the generator and confirm that the REM indicator illuminates green.

2. Slowly increase the resistance and verify that the REM alarm sounds at

135 ± 5 ohms.

3. Decrease the resistance to 60 ohms and verify that the REM indicator

illuminates green.

4. Increase the resistance to 100 ohms and verify that the REM alarm sounds.

Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

5. Decrease the resistance to 30 ohms and verify that the REM indicator

illuminates green.

6. Decrease the resistance to 10 ohms and verify that the REM indicator

illuminates green.

7. Decrease the resistance to 3 ohms and verify that the REM alarm sounds.

ForceTriad Service Manual 6-7

Periodic Safety Check

Confirming Outputs

Important

The output of any receptacle equipped with a barcode scanner may only be
verified using an appropriate barcode or dot code accessory.

The generator must be in the Demo mode to confirm outputs.
The ForceTriad is designed to function only as Return Electrode Contact Quality

Monitor (RECQM) equipped unit. To disable the RECQM circuit, see the following
instructions for enabling the Demo mode.

Enable Demo Mode

1. To enter demo mode, touch the wrench icon on the ri ght side of the right

touchscreen. The Main Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

2. In the Main Menu, the Demo mode button will display ‘Enter Demo’ if the

system is not in Demo mode. Touch the Enter Demo mode button to begin
Demo mode. The system operating displays will appear in all the
touchscreens with the words ‘DEMO MODE: Not for Clinical Use’ on all
three screens.

Note: While in Demo mode, the REM alarm and the dual instrument error alarm

are deactivated, but RF power will still be delivered. The generator will not
sense the instrument type, so the appropriate tab must be selected
manually for the connected instrument.

To exit Demo mode, either turn the system off and restart it, or follow the

3.

steps in the exit Demo mode section below.

Exit Demo Mode

1. Touch the wrench icon on the right side of the right touchscreen. The Main

Menu display will appear in the left touchscreen.

2. In the Main Menu, the Demo mode button will display ‘Exit Demo’ if the

system is in Demo mode. Touch the Exit Demo button in the Main Menu to
exit the Demo mode. The system touchscreens will display the last settings
entered during the Demo mode.

6-8 ForceTriad Service Manual

Periodic Safety Check

Checking the Bipolar Output

1. Verify that the generator successfully completes the self-test as described in

Testing the Generator in this chapter.

2. Connect the test equipment for bipolar output.
a. Connect the two test cables to the Bipolar Instrument receptacle. Ensure

the test cables depress both the sensing switches of the receptacle.

b. Pass one test cable through the current transformer and connect the current

transformer to the voltmeter.

c. Connect the 100 ohm power resistor across the output jacks at the end of

the test cables.

d. Connect the bipolar footswitch to the Bipolar Footswitch receptacle on the

rear panel.

3. Press the Low button and set the bipolar power to 10 watts.

4. Test the output current for the selected Bipolar mode.
a. Press the footswitch pedal and, while activating the generator, note the

output on the voltmeter.

b. Release the footswitch pedal.

Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

c. Based on the voltmeter setting and the current transformer you are using,

calculate and record the output current.

5. Press the Med (Standard) button and repeat step 4.

6. Press the Macro (Macrobipolar) button and repeat step 4.

7. Verify that the generator output for each mode is 315 ± 24 mA rms.

If the output is outside the specified range, calibrate the bipolar output as
described in calibration steps 1, 5, 6, and 9 then repeat this procedure. If the
output for one or more modes remains outside the specified range, call the
Valleylab Service Center.

ForceTriad Service Manual 6-9

Periodic Safety Check

Checking the Monopolar Output for the Cut Modes

1. Verify that the generator successfully completes the self-test as described in

Testing the Generator in this chapter.

2. Connect the test equipment for monopolar output.
a. Connect a handswitching instrument in the Monopolar 1 Instrument

receptacle. Pass the test cable through the current transformer and connect
the current transformer to the voltmeter.

b. Use a test cable to short the two pins on the Patient Return Electrode

receptacle.

c. Connect the second test cable from the voltmeter to both pins of the

Patient Return Electrode receptacle.

d. Connect the 300 ohm resistor across the output jacks at the end of the test

cables.

3. Press the Pure button on the far left screen.

4. Press the Cut up ( ∆ ) or down ( ∇ ) arrow buttons to set the cut power to

75 watts.

5. Test the monopolar cut output .
a. Press the handswitch cut button and, while activating the generator, note

the output on the voltmeter.

b. Release the handswitch button.
c. Based on the voltmeter setting and the current transformer you are using,

calculate and record the output current.

6. Press the Blend button and repeat step 5.

7. Verify that the generator output for each mode is 499 ± 38 mA rms.

If the output is outside the specified range, calibrate the monopolar output as
described in calibration steps 1, 5, 6, and 9 then repeat this procedure. If the
output for one or more cut modes remains outside the specified range, call the
Valleylab Service Center.

6-10 ForceTriad Service Manual

Periodic Safety Check

Check the Output for the Coag Modes

1. Verify that the generator successfully completes the self-test as described in

Testing the Generator in this chapter.

2. Connect the test equipment for monopolar output.
a. Connect a handswitching instrument in the Monopolar 1 Instrument

receptacle. Pass the test cable through the current transformer and connect
the current transformer to the voltmeter.

b. Use a test cable to short th e two pins on the Patient Return Electrode

receptacle.

c. Connect the second test cable from the voltmeter to both pins of the

Patient Return Electrode receptacle.

d. Connect the 500 ohm resistor across the output jacks at the end of the test

cables.

3. Press the Fulgurate button.

4. Press the Coag up ( ∆ ) or down ( ∇ ) arrow buttons to set the coag power to

30 watts.

5. Test the monopolar coag output.

Setup, Tests, and Adjustments

a. Press the handswitch coag button and, while activating the generator, note

the output on the voltmeter.

b. Release the handswitch button.
c. Based on the voltmeter setting and the current transformer you are using,

calculate and record the output current.

6. Press the Spray button and repeat step 5.

7. Verify that the system output for each mode is 245 ± 19 mA rms.

If the output is outside the specified range, calibrate the monopolar output as
described in calibration steps 1, 5, 6, and 9 then repeat this procedure. If the
output for one or more coag modes remains outside the specified range, call
the Valleylab Service Center.

ForceTriad Service Manual 6-11

Periodic Safety Check

Checking Low Frequency Leakage Current

Check the low frequency leakage current before returning the ForceTriad to
clinical use.

Equipment required:

•DVM

• Leakage current tester.

Leakage current test circuit per IEC 60601-1

6-12 ForceTriad Service Manual