1

Quintus
5 part

Hematology Analyzer
Service Manual
Rev 2.3

Revision 2.3
2014-September-16
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Revision history

Revision history

Revisi Date Edited by Sections affected Approved

on by
1.01 6th of Sept Per Löfbom All sections KW
2010
2.0 14th of March Per Löfbom 3. For your safety
2011
4. Structure of Analyzer
7. Adjustments
8. Verification Procedures, Self-test, Warnings, Service menu
9. Installation
10. Troubleshooting
11. Removal and replacement procedure
12. Specifications, spare parts, Reagent consumption etc
13. Autoloader KW

2.1 16 th Jan 2012 Per Löfbom 12. Reagent consumption KW

13. Autoloader
2.2 31st Jan 2012 Per Löfbom 12.3 Spare parts, autoloader article numbers

2.3 16tthSept 2014 Per Löfbom General update, all sections updated GW,XW
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Table of Contents
REVISION HISTORY .................................................................................................................................................. 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................................................................. 3
1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................... 9
1.1 WHO SHOULD READ THIS MANUAL ................................................................................................................ 9
2 FOR YOUR SAFETY ....................................................................................................................................... 10
2.1 SPECIAL SYMBOLS USED IN THIS MANUAL................................................................................................. 10
2.2 GENERAL PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................................................................. 10
2.3 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ........................................................................................................................ 11
2.4 ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................... 12
2.5 SUGGESTED ON-LINE UPS ........................................................................................................................... 12
2.6 PROPER PLACEMENT OF QUINTUS ............................................................................................................... 13
2.7 WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................................. 14
2.8 WASTE DISPOSAL ........................................................................................................................................ 14
2.9 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 15
3 STRUCTURE OF THE ANALYZER ............................................................................................................. 16
3.1 COMPONENTS LOCATED ON THE FRONT PANEL ............................................................................................ 16
3.1.1 Display screen and the touch sensitive surface ...................................................................................... 16
3.1.2 Start Button and LEDs ........................................................................................................................... 17
3.2 COMPONENTS ACCESSIBLE AFTER OPENING THE FRONT PANEL ................................................................... 17
3.2.1 Shear Valve Assembly ............................................................................................................................ 17
3.2.2 Sample rotor ........................................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.3 Main Dilutors ......................................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.4 Dilutor opto sensor boards..................................................................................................................... 19
3.2.5 Tube organizer ....................................................................................................................................... 19
3.2.6 Temperature Control Unit ...................................................................................................................... 19
3.2.7 Laser head .............................................................................................................................................. 20
3.2.8 Laser Head Assembly + Sample Injector ............................................................................................... 21
3.2.9 Laserdiode Driver Board ....................................................................................................................... 22
3.2.10 Pin Photodiode and Amplifier (OPTSENSOR_2v1) .......................................................................... 22
3.3 LEFT SIDE .................................................................................................................................................... 23
3.3.1 Valve boards........................................................................................................................................... 23
3.3.2 WBC/BASO Preheater Assembly............................................................................................................ 24
3.3.3 Counting chamber with electrodes and measuring aperture ................................................................. 24
3.3.4 HGB Measuring Head ............................................................................................................................ 25
3.3.5 Cell counter Amplifier Board ................................................................................................................. 26
3.3.6 Pressure sensor board ............................................................................................................................ 27
3.3.7 Reagent and Vacuum buffers .................................................................................................................. 29
3.3.8 Reagent Sensor Board ............................................................................................................................ 29
3.3.9 Opening the valve assembly plate .......................................................................................................... 29
3.3.10 Vacuum buffer .................................................................................................................................... 29
3.3.11 Pneumatic and Power Boards (PPB1 and PPB2) ............................................................................. 30
3.3.12 Pump assembly .................................................................................................................................. 31
3.4 RIGHT SIDE .................................................................................................................................................. 32
3.4.1 XY unit .................................................................................................................................................... 32
3.4.2 XYROpto Board ...................................................................................................................................... 33
3.4.3 Sampling needle ..................................................................................................................................... 33
3.4.4 Blood sensor ........................................................................................................................................... 33
3.4.5 Wash head .............................................................................................................................................. 34
3.4.6 Processor unit (LS-DACQ board with DimmBoard) ............................................................................. 34
3.4.7 Mini-ITX PC mother board (In Hardware block) .................................................................................. 40
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4 ELECTRONIC BLOCK DIAGRAM .............................................................................................................. 41

4.1 HARDWARE BLOCK ..................................................................................................................................... 41
4.2 DATA ACQUISITION UNIT ............................................................................................................................ 43
4.3 AMPLIFIER BOARD ....................................................................................................................................... 45
4.4 OPTICAL HEAD ............................................................................................................................................ 46
5 OPERATION OF THE FLUIDIC SYSTEM .................................................................................................. 47
5.1 THE REAGENT SYSTEM ................................................................................................................................ 47
5.2 FLOW DIAGRAM OF MEASUREMENT............................................................................................................. 48
5.3 INITIALIZATION OF THE FLUIDIC SYSTEM .................................................................................................... 50
5.4 REAGENTS PRIMING ..................................................................................................................................... 50
5.5 PIERCING PROCESS ...................................................................................................................................... 50
5.6 SAMPLING PROCESS ..................................................................................................................................... 50
5.7 NEEDLE WASHING PROCESSES ..................................................................................................................... 51
5.8 DILUTING PROCESSES .................................................................................................................................. 51
5.9 LYSING PROCESS ......................................................................................................................................... 52
5.10 RBC COUNTING PROCESS ............................................................................................................................ 52
5.11 WBC/BASO COUNTING .............................................................................................................................. 52
5.12 WBC 4DIFF COUNTING ............................................................................................................................... 53
5.13 CHAMBER DRAINING PROCESSES ................................................................................................................. 53
5.14 CLEANING (RINSING) PROCESSES................................................................................................................. 53
5.15 STANDBY PROCESS ...................................................................................................................................... 54
5.16 WAKE UP PROCESS ...................................................................................................................................... 54
5.17 SHUTDOWN PROCESS ................................................................................................................................... 54
6 ADJUSTMENTS ............................................................................................................................................... 55
6.1 XY UNIT MECHANICAL ADJUSTMENTS......................................................................................................... 55
6.1.1 XY horizontal movement......................................................................................................................... 55
6.1.1.1 Greasing the horizontal rods ..................................................................................................................................56
6.1.1.2 Set opto flags for horizontal movement ................................................................................................................56
6.1.2 XY vertical adjustment ........................................................................................................................... 58
6.1.2.1 Basic operation .......................................................................................................................................................58
6.1.2.2 Adjusting the needle’s vertical position................................................................................................................59
6.1.3 Washing head settings ............................................................................................................................ 60
6.1.4 Needle setting ......................................................................................................................................... 61
6.1.4.1 Handmade setting ...................................................................................................................................................61
6.1.4.2 Software made setting ............................................................................................................................................62
6.2 SHEAR VALVE MECHANICAL SETTING.......................................................................................................... 62
6.2.1 Shear valve lower disc position setting .................................................................................................. 62
6.2.2 Shear valve upper disc setting ................................................................................................................ 63
6.2.3 Setting the opto sensors of the shear valve. ............................................................................................ 65
6.3 AMPLIFIER OFFSET SETTING ........................................................................................................................ 66
6.4 BLOOD SENSOR CALIBRATION ..................................................................................................................... 67
6.5 SAMPLE POSITION SETTING .......................................................................................................................... 69
6.6 PRESSURE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT ................................................................................................................. 71
6.7 SET SERIAL NUMBER.................................................................................................................................... 71
6.8 WBC PREHEATER ........................................................................................................................................ 71
6.9 SETTING LASER VALUES .............................................................................................................................. 71
6.9.1 Calibration procedure of optical heads ................................................................................................. 72
6.9.2 Short guide for laser values.................................................................................................................... 75
7 VERIFICATION PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................... 79
7.1 SELF-TEST ................................................................................................................................................... 79
7.1.1 Quintus Self-Test Guide ......................................................................................................................... 80
7.1.1.1 General information ...............................................................................................................................................80
7.1.1.2 Electronic Self-Test parameters ............................................................................................................................81
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7.1.1.3 Pneumatic Self-Test parameters ............................................................................................................................83

7.2 ERROR MESSAGES ....................................................................................................................................... 84
7.3 SERVICE MENU ........................................................................................................................................... 90
7.3.1 Service functions, 6 display screens ....................................................................................................... 91
7.3.1.1 Test functions .........................................................................................................................................................92
7.3.1.2 File management ....................................................................................................................................................92
7.3.1.3 Raw data saving mode ...........................................................................................................................................92
7.3.1.4 Low level reboot (DimmBoard) ............................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.5 PneuInit – Initialize ................................................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.6 Set needle and Washing head ................................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.7 Blood detector adjustment (Needle tube full length/sample position .................................................................93
7.3.1.8 Windows control status ..........................................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.9 Network management ............................................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.10 Export RAW files ...................................................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.11 TCU fill/drain .........................................................................................................................................................93
7.3.1.12 Flow cell fill/drain ..................................................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.13 Blood sensor status .................................................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.14 Optical channels offset adjustment .......................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.15 Reading values........................................................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.16 WBC preheater .......................................................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.17 Impedance amplifier offset adjustment .................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.18 Pressure offset adjustment .....................................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.19 Serial number set up ...............................................................................................................................................94
7.3.1.20 History of Gravity X, Gravity Y factors ...............................................................................................................94
7.3.2 Service testing ........................................................................................................................................ 95
7.3.3 Service calibration ................................................................................................................................. 96
7.3.3.1 Enable scatter calibration .......................................................................................................................................96
7.3.3.2 Backup Calibration.................................................................................................................................................96
7.3.3.3 Restore Calibration.................................................................................................................................................96
7.3.3.4 Accept User factors ................................................................................................................................................97
7.3.3.5 Accept button..........................................................................................................................................................97
7.3.3.6 Back.........................................................................................................................................................................97
7.3.4 Stress test................................................................................................................................................ 97
7.3.5 Optical alignment ................................................................................................................................... 98
7.3.6 Autoloader .............................................................................................................................................. 98
7.3.6.1 Go to Pos .................................................................................................................................................................99
7.3.6.2 Reset ........................................................................................................................................................................99
7.3.6.3 Repeat last command .............................................................................................................................................99
7.3.6.4 Go To Mixer ...........................................................................................................................................................99
7.3.6.5 Load to sampling position .....................................................................................................................................99
7.3.6.6 Set up Barcode Reader ...........................................................................................................................................99
7.3.7 Software updates .................................................................................................................................... 99
7.3.7.1 Refresh data ..........................................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.2 High Level software .............................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.3 Low level software ...............................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.4 New Boot SW .......................................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.5 New LSDACQ firmware .....................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.6 New Optical Head SW .........................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.7 New TCU software ..............................................................................................................................................100
7.3.7.8 New autoloader SW .............................................................................................................................................100
7.3.8 QC Wizard ............................................................................................................................................ 101
7.3.9 Printer installation ............................................................................................................................... 101
7.3.10 Factory Settings ............................................................................................................................... 102
7.3.11 Service mode OFF ........................................................................................................................... 102
7.4 SOFTWARE SYSTEMS ................................................................................................................................. 103
7.5 GENERAL SW INSTALLATION GUIDE ......................................................................................................... 103
7.5.1 Install operating system Windows 2.0 using pen drive......................................................................... 105
8 INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................................ 110
8.1 CHECK THE DELIVERY .............................................................................................................................. 110
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8.2 PREPARE FOR INITIAL INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................... 110

8.2.1 Select a Suitable Location .................................................................................................................... 110
8.2.2 Make Any Special Arrangements.......................................................................................................... 110
8.2.3 Gather Your Peripherals Devices ........................................................................................................ 111
8.3 PERFORMING THE INSTALLATION .............................................................................................................. 111
8.3.1 Move the Quintus to the Selected Location .......................................................................................... 111
8.3.2 Visual Inspection .................................................................................................................................. 111
8.3.3 Remove the Protective Card from the Shear Valve .............................................................................. 112
8.3.4 Connect the Optional Autoloader......................................................................................................... 112
8.3.5 Connect the Reagents ........................................................................................................................... 113
8.3.6 Connect the Power Cord ...................................................................................................................... 114
8.3.7 Verify the Quintus Computer Operation .............................................................................................. 114
8.3.8 Connect Peripherals ............................................................................................................................. 114
8.3.9 How to install a printer ........................................................................................................................ 115
8.3.10 Initializing the Optional Autoloader ................................................................................................ 116
8.3.11 Using the Setup menu....................................................................................................................... 117
8.3.12 Set Up a Laboratory Information System (LIS) ............................................................................... 117
8.3.13 Set Up a Serial LIS Connection ....................................................................................................... 118
8.3.14 Set Up an Ethernet LIS Connection ................................................................................................. 118
8.3.15 Running Blank Samples and Blood Samples for the First Time....................................................... 119
8.4 CHECKLIST FOR INSTALLING QUINTUS HEMATOLOGY ANALYZER ............................................................. 120
9 TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................................................. 121
9.1 TROUBLESHOOTING CHECKLIST FOR QUINTUS HEMATOLOGY ANALYZER ........................................................ 121
9.1.1 Visual inspection .................................................................................................................................. 121
9.1.2 Powering up the system ........................................................................................................................ 122
9.1.3 Checking the software adjustments ...................................................................................................... 122
9.1.4 Checking the Hardware adjustments.................................................................................................... 123
9.1.5 Run a Self-test ...................................................................................................................................... 124
9.1.6 Run Blank measurements ..................................................................................................................... 125
9.1.7 Run Control measurements .................................................................................................................. 125
9.2 MECHANICAL PROBLEMS........................................................................................................................... 127
9.2.1 General guidelines to overcome motor or moving part related problems............................................ 127
9.2.2 Sample Rotor (SR or BOB) failures ..................................................................................................... 127
9.2.2.1 SR gives grinding noise and / or SW displays SR error messages ...................................................................127
9.2.2.2 SR error appears during initialization process: ..................................................................................................127
9.2.2.3 The SR does not turn into the analyzer even with open front panel .................................................................127
9.2.3 Needle mechanics, Vertical motor problems ........................................................................................ 127
9.2.3.1 The needle carriage keeps dropping back (down) at initialization....................................................................127
9.2.3.2 Vertical motor cannot reach the optosensor (Home or End) .............................................................................128
9.2.4 Shear Valve (SV) related errors ........................................................................................................... 128
9.2.4.1 SV error at the first startup ..................................................................................................................................128
9.2.4.2 Grinding noise after SV cleaning, (after SV reinstallation) ..............................................................................128
9.2.4.3 SV leakage ............................................................................................................................................................129
9.2.5 Dilutor errors ....................................................................................................................................... 129
9.2.5.1 Dilutor is making noise ........................................................................................................................................129
9.2.5.2 Dilutor is leaking ..................................................................................................................................................129
9.2.6 A tube comes off of a valve ................................................................................................................... 130
9.2.7 Priming problems ................................................................................................................................. 130
9.2.7.1 The analyzer would not prime liquids ................................................................................................................130
9.3 ELECTRONICS RELATED PROBLEMS ........................................................................................................... 131
9.3.1 Touch screen / display errors ............................................................................................................... 131
9.3.1.1 No image on display ............................................................................................................................................131
9.3.1.2 Touch sensitive surface not working ..................................................................................................................131
9.3.1.3 Touch (click) is inaccurate...................................................................................................................................131
9.3.1.4 Screen image is not normal, some parts of the software screen is not visible .................................................131
9.3.2 Communication errors ......................................................................................................................... 131
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9.3.3 The analyzer does not power on ........................................................................................................... 132

9.3.4 I2C errors displayed at startup ............................................................................................................. 132
9.4 USEFUL INFORMATION AND TIPS ............................................................................................................... 133
9.4.1 High PLT background .......................................................................................................................... 133
9.4.2 Fast Starting up and Shutting down ..................................................................................................... 133
9.4.3 Removing bubbles from the Flow cell .................................................................................................. 133
9.4.4 Removing the DimmBoard ................................................................................................................... 134
9.4.5 Listen the sounds of the instrument ...................................................................................................... 134
9.4.6 Replacing small diameter tubes ........................................................................................................... 134
9.4.7 Swapping the pumps ............................................................................................................................. 134
9.4.8 Draining the reservoirs ........................................................................................................................ 134
10 MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................................ 135
10.1 USER MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................................................. 135
10.1.1 Daily maintenance ........................................................................................................................... 135
10.1.2 Weekly maintenance......................................................................................................................... 135
10.1.2.1 Shear Valve cleaning ...........................................................................................................................................135
10.1.2.2 Cleaning the wash head .......................................................................................................................................135
10.2 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................................... 135
10.3 FLOW CELL CLEANING ............................................................................................................................... 142
11 REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES ................................................................................................. 145
11.1 OPENING THE INSTRUMENT ....................................................................................................................... 145
11.2 SHEAR VALVE ASSEMBLY ......................................................................................................................... 146
11.3 XY UNIT ................................................................................................................................................... 147
11.4 SAMPLE ROTOR ........................................................................................................................................ 150
11.5 DILUTORS .................................................................................................................................................. 151
11.5.1 Syringe replacement......................................................................................................................... 152
11.6 TCU MODULE ........................................................................................................................................... 152
11.7 VALVE BLOCK ........................................................................................................................................... 154
11.8 PRE-AMPLIFIER BOARD ............................................................................................................................. 155
11.9 PUMP ASSEMBLY....................................................................................................................................... 156
11.10 HARDWARE MODULE ............................................................................................................................ 157
11.11 LASER HEAD ASSEMBLY....................................................................................................................... 158
11.11.1 Laser injector replacement procedure ............................................................................................. 161
11.11.1.1 Removing the laser for injector replacement: ...............................................................................................162
11.11.1.2 Removing the injector:....................................................................................................................................163
11.11.1.3 Reinstalling the Laser Head: ..........................................................................................................................165
11.12 MEASURING BLOCK .............................................................................................................................. 165
11.12.1 Aperture removal: ............................................................................................................................ 166
11.12.2 WBC aperture removal: ................................................................................................................... 166
11.12.3 Measuring Chamber removal: ......................................................................................................... 167
11.12.4 HGB head removal .......................................................................................................................... 167
11.13 DISPLAY UNIT ....................................................................................................................................... 168
11.14 QUINTUS FLUIDICS V2.1 - SV IN CHAMBER POSITION ........................................................................... 169
11.15 QUINTUS FLUIDICS V2.1 - SV IN NEEDLE POSITION .............................................................................. 170
11.16 TUBINGS ............................................................................................................................................... 171
12 APPENDIX ...................................................................................................................................................... 182
12.1 RECOMMENDED KIT OF TOOLS................................................................................................................... 182
12.2 HOW TO USE THE „COLLECT” FUNCTION OF THE QUINTUS HEMATOLOGY ANALYZER ............................... 183
12.3 QUINTUS TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................... 184
12.4 REAGENT CONSUMPTION ........................................................................................................................... 185
12.5 SPARE PARTS ............................................................................................................................................. 186
13 AUTOLOADER .............................................................................................................................................. 190
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13.1 PARTS OF THE AUTOLOADER ............................................................................................................ 191

13.2 LEFT SIDE .................................................................................................................................................. 191
13.3 RIGHT SIDE ................................................................................................................................................ 192
13.4 REAR SIDE ................................................................................................................................................. 192
13.5 OPERATION .............................................................................................................................................. 193
13.6 HOW DOES IT WORK? ................................................................................................................................. 193
13.7 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE OPERATION .............................................................................................. 193
13.7.1 Connecting to the ANALYZER ......................................................................................................... 193
13.7.2 Disconnecting from the ANALYZER ................................................................................................ 193
13.7.3 Power on .......................................................................................................................................... 193
13.7.4 Initializing ........................................................................................................................................ 194
13.7.5 Loading samples .............................................................................................................................. 194
13.7.6 Moving the sample rack to feeding position .................................................................................... 194
13.7.7 Recognizing sample racks ................................................................................................................ 195
13.7.8 Feeding sample vials into the system ............................................................................................... 195
13.7.9 Recognizing vials and caps .............................................................................................................. 195
13.7.10 Mixing the sample and Reading the barcode ................................................................................... 196
13.7.11 Feeding to sampling position ........................................................................................................... 196
13.7.12 Ejecting the Samples ........................................................................................................................ 196
13.8 COMMUNICATION WITH THE ANALYZER .................................................................................................... 196
13.9 TEST FUNCTIONS IN ANALYZER ................................................................................................................. 196
13.10 ADJUSTMENTS .................................................................................................................................... 197
13.10.1 REMOVING THE PLEXI-GLASS COVER .................................................................................................... 197
13.11 REMOVING THE FRONT COVER PLATE OF THE MIXER ............................................................................. 197
13.12 REMOVING THE TRAY............................................................................................................................ 198
13.13 ADJUSTING OPTO SENSORS .................................................................................................................... 201
13.14 VERIFYING THE OPERATION OF THE LATCH ........................................................................................... 204
13.15 VERIFYING THE POSITION OF THE RACK FEEDER DISCS .......................................................................... 205
13.16 ADJUSTING THE MIXER ARM AND ITS SENSORS ...................................................................................... 206
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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Who should read this manual
This Service manual is intended for trained technicians or service engineers to be able to maintain and
repair Quintus automated hematology analyzer. It contains the functional descriptions of the analyzer,
operation of the fluidic system, adjustments and settings, and very important information for the Service
Personnel about the service operations and possible problems.

If equipment operation is different from the manufacturer’s specifications and intended

use, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Misuse of equipment or use other than its intended purpose will invalidate conditions
of warranty. Accuracy and precision may also be impaired.
Follow the service procedures described herein to guarantee functional operation after
repairs and maintenance.

All information contained herein is the intellectual property of Boule Medical and should not be used or
reproduced without prior agreement of Boule Medical.

Would you find things unclear, please, contact service@boule.se for assistance.

For updated information regarding SW updates and Technical bulletins, please, visit our web site:
www.quintus5part.com/

If you are a certified Boule distributor, you can get a unique password to access download page on our
web site.

User’s manual contains important information about the operation and measurement principles of
Quintus. Specifications, definition of parameters and user interface are also described therein,
consequently Service manual does not contain these data.

Use of the Service manual assumes knowledge of the information contained in the User’s manual.

Boule Service department

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2 For Your Safety

2.1 Special Symbols Used In This Manual

Label Meaning Explanation

Blood samples and analyzer waste are potentially infectious

Biohazard
materials.

Corrosive Reagents may cause corrosion or skin irritation.

Warning General warning of possible hazard conditions.

Sharp needle warning The sampling needle may be a hazard to the operator.

2.2 General Precautions

The sampling needle and other components inside the analyzer may cause injury, or can
get damaged if handled incorrectly. Only certified personnel should open the covers.
Running measurements with opened cover is not recommended due to the risk of possible
injury. Always wear safety gloves while performing maintenance actions.

The analyzer weighs 35kg (~77lbs). Please do not attempt to move it alone. The analyzer
should always be moved by two persons holding the analyzer by its sides in an upright
position.

Always use safe lifting procedures when lifting the analyzer.

Make sure to retain the original packaging material for safe transportation and storage in
the future.

To prepare the analyzer for shipping, storage or extended periods of inactivity, please drain
the reagents and repackage the Quintus in its original packaging. Do not expose Quintus
to direct sunlight, extreme temperature or humidity (>80%).

The analyzer operates with chemically and biologically active reagents. Physical contact
with these reagents should be avoided. Please read reagent descriptions carefully for
possible emergency actions.
 11

To ensure reliable operation and reliable results:

• Only genuine Boule Quintus reagents can be used
• Required service maintenance should be performed as recommended in this
manual
• Only genuine Boule/Quintus service materials and spare parts should be used for
repairs

Genuine reagents and service materials and spare parts are available from Boule Medical.

Only Boule certified service personnel that have successfully completed the Quintus
Service Training’ program are qualified to service the Quintus analyzer.

Before operating Quintus analyzer, all operators should complete a Quintus Operator
Training’ program. This program is offered by Boule Medical or by certified service
personnel.

Replacement materials or spare parts (tubes, valves, etc.) which might have been in
contact with human blood or reagents should be handled as a potentially biologically
hazardous and chemically dangerous material. All applicable laws and regulations must be
observed in the handling and disposal of these materials.

Quintus is designed for laboratory operation. Mobile operation is not supported. Operate
Quintus within the ambient temperature range described in User Manual.

The IVD equipment complies with the emission and immunity requirements described in
relevant part of the IEC 61326 series.

This equipment has been designed and tested to CISPR 11 Class A. In a domestic
environment it may cause radio interference, in which case, you may need to take
measures to mitigate the interference.

Electromagnetic environment should be evaluated prior to operation of the device.

This analyzer contains electronic components. Please handle electronic waste

adhering to local or federal regulations.

CAUTION – Use of controls or adjustments or perfomance of procedures other than those

specified herein may result hazardous radiation exposure.

2.3 Environmental Factors

Operate Quintus within the ambient temperature range of 15-30°C (59-86°F) and a relative humidity
range of 10% - 80%. Optimum operating temperature is 25°C (77°F).
 12

Quintus should be stored within the temperature range of 5-35°C (41-95°F). Avoid exposing the analyzer
to direct sunlight or to extreme high or low temperatures. If the analyzer was subjected to extreme
temperatures during shipment or storage, it must be placed for at least two hours in a room whose
temperature is within the operational range before installation or use.

Reagents should be stored at a temperature range of 15-30°C (59-86°F). Reagents may experience a
temperature range of at most 5-35°C (41-95 °F) for a maximum of 3 days.

The analyzer should be placed in a well-ventilated location. Operation at an altitude above 2000 meters
(6560 ft) is not guaranteed.

2.4 Electrical Requirements

The analyzer should only be operated from a wall outlet meeting these power input requirements:

• 100-127VAC or 200-240VAC; 47Hz to 63Hz

• Power Consumption: maximum 400 VA (including power of the auto-sampler)
Please ensure that the wall outlet is also capable of supplying the power consumption of any additional
devices (such as a printer).

Use only the power cord supplied with the instrument. Avoid using extension cords. Quintus comes with
a power cord appropriate for your power system. Proper use of the appropriate power cord assures
adequate grounding of the system. If the power is not reliable, contact your representative for options
such as the installation of an external UPS module.

Failure to properly ground the Quintus bypasses important safety features and may
result in electrical hazard.

The instrument should not be placed near potentially interfering devices capable of emitting radio
frequencies (e.g. radio or television transmitters/receivers, radars, centrifuges, X-ray devices, fans, etc.).

This analyzer is designed to be safe for transient voltages to INSTALLATION CATEGORY II and POLLUTION
DEGREE 2.

2.5 Suggested on-line UPS

It is recommended to use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) in line with the power input in the
following circumstances:

• if the main power is fluctuating

• in case of power break down appears frequently
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Power consumption of the analyzer and optional Autoloader is 400VA max. If there is a power failure,
the analyzer should be able to complete the function in progress and perform a Windows shut-down to
secure data.

In order to provide the necessary power, it is recommended to use a UPS with the following minimum
specifications: 600 VA provides uninterrupted power for 10-15 minutes.

Boule Medical does not supply UPS for Quintus. Therefore Boule is not taking responsibility
or liability for the operation of Quintus running on UPS.
If you need further information, please, contact technical support of the UPS vendor.

2.6 Proper Placement of Quintus

It is important to install the instrument in a suitable location, a poor location can adversely affect its
performance:
• Select a well-ventilated location near a power source and close to a suitable drain.
• Place the unit on a clean, level surface. Leave at least 0.5 m (18 inches) space on both sides and
above the instrument to access pneumatics.
• A minimum of 0.2 m (8 inches) must be maintained between the rear panel and the wall to allow
for heat dissipation and tubing clearance.
• Ensure there is enough clearance in front of the analyzer to open front panel. Allow enough
space if you want to use optional external keyboard, mouse or bar code reader.
• Your selected location should allow placement of the reagents in an unobtrusive location below
the laboratory bench that the instrument is placed on. Placement below the laboratory bench
also allows for storage of a spare set of reagents. Never place the reagents above the Quintus
analyzer.

Placing reagents above the Quintus analyzer could result in reagent overflow and spilling.
Always put the diluent tank on the floor, never to the same level where the analyzer is.
 14

1. Figure: Spacing of Quintus with Autoloader and reagents

2.7 Weight Requirements

Quintus weighs 35 Kg (77 lb) without the Autoloader.

Quintus with optional Autoloader weighs 47Kg (104 lb). Adding an external keyboard, printer,
documents, etc. can bring the total weight up to 60 Kg (132 lb).

Please select a table, laboratory shelf, or other location which can support the weight of the Quintus
with all accessories and it is free from vibration.

To allow reliable operation and to provide a safe working environment, make sure that
the table supporting the unit is stable enough to carry the weight of the instrument and
accessories.

2.8 Waste Disposal

Waste from Quintus analyzer contains human blood and reagents that are chemically and biologically
active, and should be considered to be a potential infection and biohazard threat. Safe laboratory
practices must be followed including the use of personal protective when operating Quintus and
handling blood, reagents, and waste.

System waste should be handled as a potentially bio hazardous material. All

applicable laws, regulations, and laboratory practices should be followed in the
handling and disposal of waste.
 15

2.9 Emergency Situations

Always follow all applicable laws and regulations with regards to emergency situations.

If Quintus needs to be powered off due to an emergency situation (like fire, thunderstorm, etc.), follow
the procedures in User Manual section

In case of fire, do not use water to extinguish the fire unless Quintus is disconnected from
the electrical network!
 16

3 Structure of the analyzer

Please, refer to the User’s manual for details on opening the front and side covers, and parts contained
there.

3.1 Components located on the front panel

The display panel and related components are covered with a metal plate, to avoid electronic
interference causing problems, and to protect sensitive electronics.

3.1.1 Display screen and the touch sensitive surface

Quintus uses a color LCD with LED backlight touchscreen as main user interface.

The built-in touchscreen is a 4 wire resistive type. It is interfaced to the mainboard by a USB controller.
 17

3.1.2 Start Button and LEDs

START Button board is mounted on the front panel. It contains a start button and two LEDs to illuminate
the START button. The LEDs are bicolor: red and green LEDs. When both red and green are switched on,
the resultant color is yellow.

3.2 Components accessible after opening the front panel

3.2.1 Shear Valve Assembly
Shear Valve assembly consists of the following parts:

• Shear Valve holding plate,

• Moving mechanism,
• Stepper motor,
• Ceramic Shear Valve,
• Shear Valve opto board.
 18

3.2.2 Sample rotor

Quintus hematology analyzer has a sample rotor for safety and more precise sample handling.

Sample rotor unit uses a stepper motor, connected to the PPB through the XY opto board. The rotor has
micro switches for positioning.

The unit blocks itself in the home and end position with mechanical parts and has a special cap that
prevents the damage of the electronic and mechanic parts caused by any fluid.

Tube adapter Micro switches for positioning

3.2.3 Main Dilutors

Quintus has two separate main dilutor modules. There are two stepper motors, a common motor opto
board, four syringes and piston rods with gear transmission in each module.

The software identifies and moves four dilutors (Dil1, Dil2, Dil3, and Dil4), each dilutor consists of two
syringes. Dilutor 1 and 2 is in Dilutor module 1, dilutor 3 and 4 is in Dilutor module 2, as represented in
the picture below.

Main Dilutor Module 1 Main Dilutor Module 2

Dil 1 Dil 2 Dil 3 Dil 4

 19

3.2.4 Dilutor opto sensor boards

Dilutors have their own separated opto-boards, located
directly in the units. On the front side of the opto boards
there are 4 opto sensors and 4 control LED-s, on the back side
are mounted the motor connectors and the flat cable
connector.

3.2.5 Tube organizer

This is the component that provides arrangement for the tubes going from the
valves to the dilutor, shear valve, optical head and Temperature Control Unit. It is
intended to allow easy identification and access to tubes for service related
cleaning procedures.

Four tubes have metal through tubes to allow easier removal and replacement
when necessary in case the TCU needs to be cleaned and rinsed.

3.2.6 Temperature Control Unit

 20

Temperature Control Unit provides the necessary temperature for reagents used to create 4-DIFF
sample. It is able to heat or cool the sample and reagents, depending on the ambient temperature. It
contains a massive, molded aluminum block. There are multiple, curved and interconnected stainless
steel tubes (fluid paths) inside the TCU to ensure proper capacity.

Parts of TCU:

• In-line mixer, for mixing and homogenizing sample and specific reagents.
• Temperature Controller Board, to monitor the temperature of the aluminum block by power
transistors (heating elements) or Peltier cooling circuitry
• Thermal insulation for temperature stability.

3.2.7 Laser head

Laser head is used for optical measurements of 4-DIFF and BASO parameters.

3
1. LASERDRV BOARD

2. LENS ASSEMBLY

3. OPTSENSE BOARD

4. SAFETY SWITCHES
1
5. SAMPLE INJECTOR

6. OPTICAL FLOW CELL

7. OPTICAL CABLE

2 4
6 7
5

Black anodized aluminum box works as safety cover. Two different micro-switches protect the technician
against direct exposure to beam:
 21

• When cover holder screws are removed laser activity will be switched off by laser driver board.
• To turn on laser again, put the cover back, and fasten the screws so that both switches are
closed and the low-level SW should be restarted.
Optical measurement unit has a sheath and sample inlet, and a waste outlet from fluidic side, laser driver
cable, analogue output cable and auto-alignment cable from the electronics.

3.2.8 Laser Head Assembly + Sample Injector

Laser Head Assembly is responsible for detecting the 4diff and BASO cells from the prepared blood
sample.

The laser head is responsible for the precise illumination of the sample. The temperature controlled laser
diode source is mounted on a huge brass basis which holds it tight and also responsible for the cooling.
Just beside the laser diode aspheric and achromatic lenses performs the focusing of the laser beam.

For accurate and stable adjustment, this optical

unit is mounted on an aluminum block with a
sphere-to-cone contact. Powerful springs hold the
unit in place. Using stainless steel levers, the
direction of the laser can be rotated around two
axes. This means, the laser spot on the flow-cell
can be tilted in horizontal and vertical directions.
Precise linear motion stepper motors perform the
accurate setting of the laser. Coarse adjustment of
the laser can be made by setting the rough
adjustment screws

The flow-cell unit is responsible for the precise

flow control and the pre-detection of the pulses.
An optically clear flow-cell (cross section for flow is
0.25x0.25mm) is mounted with 2 side cone-to-
cone connection into its holder. Below the flow-
cell an injector helps to insert the sample in the
middle of the main sheath streamline. The sheath
puffer opened to free air supplies the sheath and
the sample flow.

Cross section of the flow cell – sample injector

assembly
The size and position of the sampler needle, the different tube resistance of the sheath and sampler lines
and the applied vacuum result an about 40nm wide sample stream in the middle of the flow-cell.
 22

Concentric ring shaped optical cable is also mounted to the flow-cell unit. This collects the scattered light
from the cells, and transfers it to the detection unit. Just before the insertion zone of the optical cable,
there is a laser dump for filtering direct laser beam.

3.2.9 Laserdiode Driver Board

The LASERDRV board is based on a PIC 24FJ64GA004 (Microchip)
microcontroller that performs all the control functions of the laser
diode and the communication with the LS-DACQ (DimmBoard).

The LASERDVR board incorporates a laser diode with built-in APC

(automatic power control). The laser power can be set by a
programmable digital potentiometer in the 1.8 – 5.5 mW range.
The laser can be switched on and off from program.

The laser diode temperature can be set, and then the

microcontroller will keep the diode temperature at the preset
value. As the temperature control uses only heating (2 transistors),
stable diode temperature can be maintained only above room temperature.

The LASERDRV board provides laser safety functions too. When removing the laser cover, the safety
switches cut off laser power immediately. In order to turn the laser on the cover must be in replaced and
the instrument must be turned off and back on.

The controlling interface between the LS-DACQ and the LASERDRV is I2C communication cable.

3.2.10 Pin Photodiode and Amplifier (OPTSENSOR_2v1)

When a blood cell in the diluted and lysed
blood stream crosses the focused laser light,
the light scatters and two pin photodiodes
sense the scattered light. The current,
generated by the two photodiodes has to be
handled separately, so two independent
analog channels are used on the OPTSENSOR
board. The photodiode’s current is amplified
by one trans impedance amplifier per
channel.

Then the DC level is removed, and more amplification is applied. The DC level of output 0 and 1 (AOUT0,
AOUT1) are clamped to +1V. The output span is 2V, so the output range is +1V..+3V. This is appropriate
for the A/D converter on the LS-DACQ, that has a 2V input voltage span, only the offset has to be set
 23

according to the A/D’s requirement(+1.5V..+3.5V). The 3rd analog channel (AOUT2) outputs the DC level
of channel 0, amplified by 2. It can be used for the auto alignment of the laser. The OPTSENSOR card
contains the connectors and LEDs for Auto Alignment motors, as well as position sensing.

3.3 Left side

3.3.1 Valve boards
Quintus system incorporates 40 valves. The valve boards are
controlled by two Pneumatic and Power Board (PPB) boards.
The used valve boards are the following:

2x Valve_1-5
2x Valve_6-12
2x Valve_13-18
2x Valve_19-22

4 valves are not used, and thus not installed. Valve coils are not installed on valve driver boards behind
either.

Note: Valves can be replaced individually, also the coils can be unsoldered and replaced but valve board
cannot be replaced individually. We only provide the whole valve assembly 40 valves as a spare part.
 24

3.3.2 WBC/BASO Preheater Assembly

The WBC/BASO preheater assembly is located on the right side of the impedance measurement block,
near the WBC/BASO counting chamber. It consists of two stainless steel holding plates, thermal
insulation, heater block (see illustration below) and electronic board with heating transistors. Thermo
stated on 36-37 °C and its function is to heat the WBC/BASO dilution for better lysing. Diluted blood and
lyse reagent is pushed through the tubing of the heater block, diluent used for rinsing and cleaning the
chamber also passes through this assembly thus the chamber itself is warmer than the ambient
temperature.

WBC/BA
SO
preheate

3.3.3 Counting chamber with electrodes and measuring aperture

Impedance method is used for determination of volume and number of cells. In this method a known
volume of dilution is drawn through a small aperture. Constant current is passed through the aperture
from one side to the other. When a cell passes through the aperture, it causes a change in resistance,
which generates a voltage pulse. The amplitude of the voltage pulse is proportional to the ratio of cell
volume per aperture volume. This is used to determine the volume of cells. The number of cells can be
obtained by counting the pulses.

In the instruments there are two cell-counter chambers: separate for RBC and WBC.

In the RBC chamber the instruments counts red blood cells, and uses no lyse at all in this chamber. It has
a smaller draining outlet made of plastic and its measuring tube contains a 70 µm-sized aperture.

In the WBC chamber the instrument counts all kind of WBC. It has a measuring tube with an aperture
size of 80 µm and a bigger draining outlet made of PTFE (Teflon).

Both chambers have a reference electrode and a draining outlet. The next picture shows the chambers
and the measuring tubes. The aperture is made of ruby and it is molded into the measuring tube.

Note!! RBC and WBC chamber can be interchangeable with each other, white plastic draining cone in
bottom of chamber together with orifice/aperture must be switched between chambers in this case. See
below pictures how the draining cones are different.
 25

RBC Reference WBC

chamber electrode chamber

Reference
electrode

RBC measuring tube WBC measuring tube

with the aperture (70µm) with the aperture (80µm)
(no grooving) (1 grooving)
Aperture

O-ring

3.3.4 HGB Measuring Head

Hemoglobin head is placed around the WBC measuring chamber in the instrument.

It contains: a light source (LED) at 540 nm wavelength and Photo Detector (TSL235). The Photo Detector
converts the light to frequency. The HGB concentration is a logarithmic function of this frequency
measured by the FPGA circuit of the COMB card.

TSL235
LED

Connection to the
amplifier
 26

The analyzer performs enhanced Hemoglobin measurement technology for HGB measurement. The
output of HGB head is frequency (TSL235 detector is light to frequency converter). A digital counter in
the FPGA circuit counts this signal.This counter counts up while the LED is on and counts down while the
LED is off, the LED and the counter directions are switched with a 250 Hz signal. This method provides
“real time backlight correction”, which makes the HGB measurement more precise in changing backlight
environment situation as well.

There are two kinds of HGB measurements:

• Sample measurement (before RBC counting)

• Diluent blank measurement

The HGB result is calculated from these measurements by:

HGB ≅ log (CNTdiluent light / CNTsample light)

Due to backlight correction, Quintus is less sensitive to incident light changes. HGB light is automatic
adjusted by software and no manual adjustment is needed.

3.3.5 Cell counter Amplifier Board

Amplifier board includes its own voltage regulators, connection interfaces to HGB head, to high voltage
board and to LSDACQ board. There is a current generator circuit on this board, which works from 50V
measuring voltage (generated by the High Voltage Board) and the probe voltage (DC) is amplified with a
voltage follower (output: ELV). Nominal measuring current is 870 µA.

Connection to:
CSA1 on COMB

Connection to:
HVB

Connection to:
COMB (DIGIO)
 27

Connection to
the electrodes

Offset
potentiometer

Connection to
HGB head

Amplifier board includes one input connector for each measuring chamber (measuring electrode). There
is one opto switch (OPT1) and a relay (REL1) to connect high voltage to one of the probes with HSW
signal and to isolate the input of the amplifier. Test circuit allows generating test pulses (with TEST and
PLS signals through Q1, Q2 FETs) for checking proper operation of each amplifier channel.

Amplifier board includes a 3-stage main amplifier channel, which gains input signal to the 0...5 V range
(this is the input range of the A/D converter (IC10), which is placed on the LSDACQ card). The RSW signal
(with Q8 transistor) changes the input electrode through REL2 relay. There is an offset potentiometer, P1
in the third amplifier stage, manufacturer sets the correct offset voltage.

The Amplifier offset adjusted automatically by the SW. The service personnel can adjust it manually by
giving the offset value through the SW in service menu. If the auto offset is cannot put the value in range
the amplifier board is defective needs to be replaced.

3.3.6 Pressure sensor board

1 2 3

The Pressure Sensor Board incorporates three differential pressure sensors. The pressure values are read
out by the LS-DACQ card through I2C interface. The sensors are responsible for reading pressures of:
 28

(1) vacuum for impedance count (“chamber”)

(2) vacuum used for draining chambers (“drain”)
(3) big puffer vacuum for optical aspiration (“big puffer”)
Upon replacing the pressure meter board, it is recommended to adjust pressure meter offset

Quintus is equipped with sensitive pressure meters. These pressure meters are used to monitor and
control measurement, and chamber draining processes. In some cases, the pressure meters can develop
an offset value that can cause “Timeout” or “Chamber draining” errors. The new analyzer software can
compensate for this offset value drift.

Locate the “Start adjustment” button from Service menu-Service functions 5/6 and click on it. The SW
will perform a process, where the pressure meters will be “vented” to atmospheric pressure – and this
value will be noted by the SW. This will minimize the occurrence of the “Timeout” or “draining” related
errors. (On the screen you will see the actual value of the pressure meter, corrected values can be seen
only if a Self-test is performed after the adjustments).

If the above process fails…

1. Perform a Low Level Reboot (service menu, service functions) to get low level PC in a default
known state
2. Run Test Function 11
3. Low Level Reboot 2 times
4. Perform Pressure Sensor Offset function (Service Menu-Service functions 5/6)
5. Perform a 3-measurements based Calibration using normal level control blood
 29

3.3.7 Reagent and Vacuum buffers

The lower part of the assembly plate holds six plastic cylinders, called chambers or buffers. The first one
(Meas Small) holds vacuum used in the Impedance measurement process, aspirate sample dilution out
of aperture. This vacuum is always adjusted according to measured atmospheric pressure.

The five next chambers are used as temporary storage volumes for individual reagents for one
measurement cycle. The last two in the front, marked as Dilu 1 and Dilu 2 are linked in parallel to double
the capacity and contains diluent. Chambers 2-4 have internal floating (magnetic) level sensors. The
volume of chambers allow one measurement cycle to be performed after the reagent low warning.

3.3.8 Reagent Sensor Board

The Reagent Sensor Board monitors the liquid level in the reagent buffers continuously. If the liquid level
is enough (buffer full), it signals to the PPB2 board and the software can stop the filling process.

3.3.9 Opening the valve assembly plate

The plate holding the valves and the measurement block can be folded out of the analyzer. The plate is
secured with 2 screws, similar to the ones securing the side panels. The screws are designed to stay on
the analyzer to avoid losing them.

3.3.10 Vacuum buffer

The glass chamber is located on the internal side of the assembly plate, and is used to store the vacuum
for the optical measurements. This vacuum is controlled by pressure sensor board and generated from
pumps.
 30

3.3.11 Pneumatic and Power Boards (PPB1 and PPB2)

PPB card contains the main power regulator circuits, valve and motor driver circuits and other
connections for the fluidic and pneumatic system’s parts.

Power system generates +5V (Digital power), +8V (Printer power) and +12V (Motor and valve power)
from the single +12V DC input signal.

Motor driver part consists of six separated PIC micro-controllers with power drivers. Horizontal, Vertical
and Sample rotor motors have one combined ribbon cable connection. Main Dilutor (with two motors)
and Micro-dilutor have separated connectors.

Valve driver section is based on the valve driver PIC micro-controller and three 8-bit, powered output
shift registers (with built in protection diodes) and there are two common ribbon cable connections for
the 4 valve boards. The pump assembly has a separated Darlington driver circuit for more reliable
operation.

All microcontrollers have 2 LEDs: a yellow one and a green one.

 31

The yellow one indicates motor moving or holding and active valve or pump moving. (It means current
flows into motors, valves or pump)

The green one has 3 states:

• dark: (after initialization phase) error state,

• blinking: communication in progress - normal state

• on (just lighting): OK - normal state

PPB boards have a small board on the bottom called PPB CON board. This board connects the PPB to the
LSDACQ board.

3.3.12 Pump assembly

Pump assembly generates regulated vacuum and drains the fluidic system. There are two pumps in the
system. They are connected to the two PPB boards.

For further information see chapter 11.9.

 32

3.4 Right side

3.4.1 XY unit
This unit contains slides to move the sample sampling needle
in Horizontal and Vertical directions, two stepper motors,
XYR opto board, opto wheel, washing head and the sampling
needle. It moves the needle to the desired position: from
sampling position, to washing head, and by means of the
washing head it press the sample tube during the sampling
process.

Both stepper motors have optical end-switch sensors for detecting these positions. These are required
for correct initialization and error detection. All sensors have status LEDs to show actual conditions.

The Vertical motor works with a special opto wheel for detecting home & end positions. See the
Adjustment section of this manual to place this wheel to the proper position.

Greasing of the horizontal/vertical guiding rods should be done regularly using Photo lube 1141122_S.

It is recommended to check and repeat greasing of guiding rods every year, or after 30000
measurements. See section 6.1.1.1.
 33

3.4.2 XYROpto Board

Horizontal and Vertical motors and the Sample Rotor unit have a common Opto-board.

Sample Rotor Motor

opto LEDs connections

Horizontal Horizontal Vertical status Vertical opto

opto sensors status LEDs LEDs sensors

The other (rear) side of the board contains the connection for the Sample rotor and a ribbon cable
connection to PPB#

3.4.3 Sampling needle

Sampling needle is assembled in the H&V moving unit and it makes the piercing and the sample
aspirations. Correct setting of sampling needle is necessary and very important (see Chapter 6.
Adjustments).

Be careful, the needle is very sharp and it can cause injury!

3.4.4 Blood sensor

Blood detector is a component that will allow determining if the sampling process was successful. It is
measuring the length of the sample. If the sample is found short, a “sampling error” is going to be
displayed. It also has an emergency mode in case the blood detector failed. In this case, the analyzer is
not going to consider blood detector data, but it will move the sample to a predefined position. Both
parts of the sampling control must be adjusted.
 34

3.4.5 Wash head

Wash head is located at the bottom of the XY unit and it is for cleaning the
outer surface of the sampling needle. This washing process is made with
diluent reagent and the fluid is drained by the pump. The arrows on the
picture show the direction of diluent flow during sampling needle washing.

Replace washing according Preventive Maintenance procedure.

3.4.6 Processor unit (LS-DACQ board with DimmBoard)

The LS-DACQ board is based on a credit card size embedded PC (DimmBoard). The LS-DACQ implements
the following functions:

- Receiving commands from the Analytical Unit,

- Blood sampling and sample handling control,
- Motor and valve control,
- Measurements control,
- Amplifying and A/D converting of 4 input channels simultaneously,
- Data preprocessing,
- Transmitting data to the Analytical Unit,
- Interfacing the Laser Driver and the TCU,
- Interfacing the Start Button and Status LEDs,
 35

The LSDACQ board incorporates a credit-card sized PC, named DimmBoard. The processor on the
DimmBoard is a 600MHz Pentium-class core, with 256Mbytes on-board RAM, and SD card controller.
This SD card contains the Low Level SW of the system which handles all the measuring processes. The
Low level SW can be updated from the service software update menu.

Flash (BIOS)

Vortex86DX
CPU

Edge connector
MicroSD
Card

Flash (BIOS)

FPGA interface

The FPGA is connected through the ISA bus of the DimmBoard. The FPGA implements several registers,
and the DimmBoard can reach these registers as memory-mapped.

Buffer memory

During optical measurement, a vast amount of data has to be transferred to the Analytical Unit through
the USB connection. It is necessary to use a buffer memory to store the data temporarily, because the
USB transfer speed may not be enough to transfer the data real-time. The LS-DACQ uses a 2 MB SRAM
memory as buffer. The SRAM is organized as FIFO (first-in first-out memory).
 36

Connection with the Analytical Unit

The Analytical Unit is connected to the Data Acquisition System by a full-speed USB interface. The USB
interface is implemented by a FT2232L USB chip. The USB chip implements 2 channels, one of them
works as a virtual COM port, the other is a parallel data channel. The VCOM channel is used as a
command channel, through which the Analytical Unit sends commands to the Data Acquisition System.
The measurement data are sent to the Analytical Unit through the parallel data channel.

FPGA

The FPGA is a Xilinx Spartan II type. The FPGA preprocesses the digitized data of the optical
measurement and sends them to the Analytical Unit through the USB. It preprocesses the volumetric
impedance measurement data too, produces data packets, and sends them to the Analytical unit.

FPGA controls the SRAM, to make a FIFO data buffer of it. Implements an I2C interface to control the PPB
(Pneumatic and Power Board) boards.

Implements a MDA display for service purposes.

FPGA configuration

As the FPGA is SRAM based, it is configured after every power on. The program is stored in a Xilinx
configuration flash memory. The flash memory can be programmed through a JTAG port by a Xilinx
Parallel Cable or in-circuit from the Quintus program.

Analog inputs

The LS-DACQ has 4 analog inputs (AIN0-AIN3). AIN0 and AIN1 for the 2 channel optical measurement,
AIN2 is for the auto alignment, AIN3 is for the volumetric impedance measurement. The input signal
range for AIN0 and AIN1 is 1V..+3V, the DC offset is programmable, to adapt it to the A/D converter’s
input level of +1.5V..+3.5V. The input signal range for AIN2 and AIN3 is 0V..+5V, and the gain is
programmable.

A/D converter

The A/D converter is a THS1007 type, four channel A/D, manufactured by Texas. The input voltage level
is +1.5V..+3.5V, so AIN0 and AIN1 can be connected after DC level setting, but AIN2 and AIN3 channels
require not only level conversion, but attenuation. The input amplifier and level converter perform these
functions. The sampling frequency is 1 MHz on all input channels.

Temperature and Power Voltage Measurement, I2C Interfaces

The LS-DACQ card incorporates a PIC microcontroller that is connected to the DimmBoard through the
FPGA. The PIC with a built-in I2C controller controls the Laser Driver Board, the Opto Sensor Board, the
Pressure board and the TCU.
 37

The PIC measures the board temperature and there is an input for measuring an external temperature.
The PIC measures the board power voltages and the DimmBoard battery voltage.

Connectors

POWER Connector

The LS-DACQ board is powered directly by the PC power supply through a standard IDE power
connector. It supplies the board with +5V and +12V.

Power voltages on the LS-DACQ board:

+12V – Provides +12V to the Cell Counter Amplifier board (AJ5-MEAS), Pin Photodiode and Amplifier
board (OPTSENSOR), High Voltage Board (AJ-HVB) and the Laser Driver board (LASERDRV).

-12V – Generated by a DC-DC converter. Not used on the LS-DACQ, output to the Cell Counter Amplifier
board (AJ5-MEAS) and the Pin Photodiode and Amplifier board (OPTSENSOR).

+5V – Supply voltage to the DimmBoard, and to some other logic.

+3V3 – It is generated from the +5V by a low dropout voltage regulator. Supply voltage to the 3.3V logic,
among them to the FPGA IO pins.

+2V5 – It is generated from the +5V by a low dropout voltage regulator. FPGA core voltage.

PPB Connector

The PPB connector connects the 2 Pneumatic and Power Boards (PPB) to the LS-DACQ board.

DIGIT IO Connector

The Cell Counter Amplifier board (AJ5-MEAS) is connected to the LS-DACQ board through the DIGIT IO
Connector.

HVB Connector

The HVB connector connects the High Voltage Board (AJ-HVB).

ANALOG INPUT Connector

The ANALOG INPUT connector connects the Pin Photodiode and Amplifier board (OPTSENSOR) to the LS-
DACQ board.

AINCH2 Connector

The AINCH2 connector is not used in the actual design.

 38

AINCH3 Connector

The AINCH3 connector connects the analog output of the Cell Counter Amplifier board (AJ5-MEAS) to the
LS-DACQ board.

XILINX JTAG Connector (not used on the field)

The FPGA configuration flash memory can be programmed through this connector by a Xilix Parallel
Cable.

DEBUG DISPLAY Connector (not used on the field)

Only for test and debug purposes.

LASER DRIVER Connector

The LS-DACQ board provides power and an I2C interface to the LASERDRV board through the LASER
DRIVER connector.

PRESSURE Connector

The LS-DACQ board provides power and an I2C interface to the PRESSMEAS board through the PRESSURE
connector.

TCU Connector

The LS-DACQ board provides an I2C interface to the TEMPCTRL board through the TCU connector. As the
TCU requires high current power, the TCU is powered directly by an IDE connector of the PC power
supply.

FRONT PANEL Connector

The FRONT PANEL connector connects the Front Panel board (STARTBUT) to the LS-DACQ board.

FLOPPY Connector

A standard 3.5” floppy drive can be connected. It is used only for test and debug purposes.

KEYBOARD Connector

A standard PS2 keyboard can be connected to the DimmBoard’s keyboard interface by this connector. It
is used only for test and debug purposes.

COM1 Connector

The DimmBoard’s COM1 port is output here. The Autoloader is connected to this port.
 39

NTC TEMP Connector

An external temperature measuring NTC resistor can be connected, to measure external temperature.

USBA Connector

The DimmBoard’s USB upstream port is output here. It can be used for DimmBoard software upgrade.

USBB2 Connector

It is connected to the USB downstream port of the PIC microcontroller. Not used.

USBB1 Connector

It is the USB interface between the Data Acquisition System and the Analytical System. It is an USB
downstream connector.
 40

3.4.7 Mini-ITX PC mother board (In Hardware block)

1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2. Serial connector. This 9-pin COM1 port is for serial devices.

3. DVI connector. This 24-pin DVI port connects to a DVI monitor.

4 & 5. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a
network hub.

6. Line In port (light blue). This port connects a tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources.

7. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-
channel configuration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.

8. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.

9. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting
USB 2.0 devices.

10. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting
USB 2.0 devices.

11. VGA port. This 15-pin VGA port connects to a VGA monitor.

12. Serial connector. This 9-pin COM2 port is for serial devices.

13. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
 41

4 Electronic block diagram

The analyzer hardware consists of two systems, an Analytical Unit and a Data Acquisition Unit. The two
autonomous systems communicate via an USB interface. A 400W ATX PC power supply generates the
necessary voltages for the two units.

4.1 Hardware Block

The function of the Analytical Unit is to implement the user interface, to start and control the
measurement processes, to receive and process the measurement data, handle the database, display,
store, and print the processed measurement data. Hardware Block is responsible to communicate with
the user, transfer data to the Low Level Software and store the settings and measured data.

The components of the Analytical Unit are:

- PC mainboard (mini-ITX mainboard).

- Mass storage device (250 GB Winchester)
- Power supply (400W)
- Audio amplifier and speaker
- Keyboard (optional)
- Mouse (optional)
- USB CD/DVD drive (optional)
- Mainboard back panel I/O ports
- LVDS cable
- Touch cable
- Internal USB cable
- LED display cable
 42

10.4” LCD-
LED 600x800

Touch screen Data and Power connector Back light connector

connector

Touch screen USB

interface board Power supply

USB Power & Video Power supply connector

Mini-ITX main board

PS2 PS2 Mouse

Keyboard IDE 4 USB Audio USB

Keyboard Mouse 3.5” 250GB CD-DVD or Audio

optional HDD other eternal amplifier
optional device like board
printer
(optional)

Speaker

Data acquisition
system
 43

4.2 Data Acquisition Unit

This unit executes the commands of the Analytical Unit. It controls all the processes of the sampling,
sample actuation, motor and valve control, measurement control and the data acquisition. It
preprocesses the raw sampled data and forwards it to the analytical unit.

The components controlled by the Data Acquisition Unit are:

- Laser diode driver and diode

- PIN photodiode and amplifier
- Cell counter amplifier and HGB head
- High voltage board (HVB)
- Pressure sensor
- TCU (Temperature Control Unit)
- 2 PPB boards (Pneumatic and Power Board)
- Stepper motor units with opto boards (dilutors, X-Y module, shear valve)
- 40 Valves
- 2 Pumps
- Reagent sensor board

See Data Acquisition “map” on the next page:

 44

Reagent Sensor
Auto Alignment
27-33 valves

23-26 valves

12-16 valves

38-44 valves

17-22 valves

34-37 valves

Shear Valve
X-Y module
6-11 valves
1-5 valves

Dilutor 2
Dilutor1
Pump1

Pump2
I2C PPB1 I2C PPB2

PPBIF LS-DACQ board Impedance measurement

(I2C) Analog
connector Cell chamber +
counter electrode
amplifier
DIGITIO HGB head
connector

HVB HVB +50V

JTAG
connector board +150V
connector
(FW upgrade)
I2C Pressure sensor
Parallel port
(debug) I2C TCU

Analog
Floppy IF DimmBoard
connector Pin photo diode + amplifier
Debug

Laser driver
USBA Laser driver + laser diode
connector

PS2 Optical measurement

COM1 Start Button USBB
keyboard Connector

Autosampler HW
(optional) block
Start Button
+ LEDs
 45

4.3 Amplifier board

This unit is responsible to gather information during impedance measurements. The amplifier board
receives the signal of cells gathered by the aperture and gains these analog signals before transferring it
to the LSDACQ.

The amplifier is using 50V DC for measurement and 150V DC for cleaning apertures. These voltages are
generated by the HVB (High Voltage Board).

Amplifier unit has a test function. Test generator switches pulses to the input of operation amplifiers
during the automated Self-test program.

HGB signals are distributed by Amplifier unit.

 46

4.4 Optical Head

Optical head provide WBC differential result applying a hydrodynamic focused flow cell, a laser light,
light detectors and amplifiers to gain the detector signals.

The laser driver unit has two Safety switches on the Laser head cover fixing to turn off the laser light
when the cover is removed. For safety reason the laser diode remains off until the low level system or
the whole system is rebooted.

Three analog signals are provided on the output of Laser Amplifier board. The low angle is typical of the
size of white blood cells, the high angle is typical of the size of the cell complexity, DC is dependent on of
cleanness flow cell.
 47

5 OPERATION OF THE FLUIDIC SYSTEM

This section describes the main fluidic steps of Quintus measurement cycle. The following figures show
total measurement flow diagram and detailed descriptions of processes for understanding the fluidic
system work.

In Quintus the cleaning process executed parallel to the measures and the standby process are executed
in the background. It means that the database and other functions (except pneumatic) are accessible
while the analyzer is performing the measurement cycle and while it is going to standby.

The cleaning process does not block the next measurement cycle, so after getting the results the next
measurement can be started.

5.1 The Reagent system

Name Description Function
Quintus 5 part diluent Isotonic solution, used to dilute whole Dilution of sample, rinsing
blood and quantitative and qualitative and cleaning the tubing
determination of RBC, WBC, PLT and HGB system; also works as
concentration sheath fluidic
Quintus 5 part Lyse Reagent for stromatolysis of RBC and BASO and 4-part (LYM,
quantitative determination of WBC 5-part MON, NEU, EOS) lysing
differentiation (LYM, MON, NEU, EOS,
BAS) and HGB concentration
measurement of human blood.
Quintus 5 part Stopper Quantitative determination of leukocyte Responsible for timed 4-
four-part differentiation (LYM, MON, NEU, Diff reaction
EOS)
Boule Hypochlorite Capillaries, tubing and chambers, Cleaning internal fluidic
removing blood component precipitates. system
 48

5.2 Flow diagram of measurement

START BLANK START Meas.

Needle to SR Sample in

Needle piercing

Cleaning processes Sampling Preparing for

making dilutions
Generating Needle washing
Vacuums (outside) HGB blank

SV to CP

Generating Dilutions in parallel Needle Pre-washing

Vacuums WBC, MIX, 4diff (Inside)

SV to NP

Making RBC dilution

SV to CP

Note: CP means “Chamber Position”; NP means “Needle Position”;

SV means Shear Valve; SR means Sample Rotor
 49

Cleaning Needle Making 4diff RBC

(Inside) dilution + refill measurement
sheath puffer

Generating
vacuum SV to NP HGB
measurement
+ reset
vacuum

4diff Cleaning WBC

measurement measurement
MIX, RBC chambers,
TCU loops 1st time

Taking BASO
Regenerate
sample
vacuum

SV to CP

BASO Cleaning
measurement
WBC, RBC chambers
TCU loops 2nd time

RESULT SV to NP

START NEXT
 50

5.3 Initialization of the Fluidic System

Fluidic initialization process performs the following steps:

• Checking the hardware conditions of the unit.

• Checking of pump and pressures sensor by generating measuring vacuum.

• Positioning all mechanical components by scanning moving range (with end-switches).

• Checking prime conditions of reagent buffers.

• Cleaning of aperture with high-pressure back-flush and high-voltage burning.

• Preparing for compulsory blank measurement.

5.4 Reagents priming

Sample measurement or most of the fluidic functions is not available if the reagents are not fully primed.
This can be done manually or automatically from the Maintenance menu, but the instrument also
performs automatic priming in several points of the pneumatic functions. (e.g. starting fill-up process,
Preparing for measurement, wake up…etc.)

The fluidic system is connected to the reagent containers in a closed fluidic way. This means when a
syringe is priming reagent from the internal reagent reservoirs, the generated vacuum will automatically
fill them up when the floating sensors detects low liquid level. Hereby the priming of the reagent during
the measurement is automatically.

During measurement the system automatically double-check the reagent levels in the buffers, and notice
the user at the end of that measurement, if any of the reagents are running low and replacement is
needed.

5.5 Piercing process

After the Start Button was pressed and all of the necessary initializations had done, the measurement
cycle starts with the piercing process.

The Sample rotor immediately turns in; the needle comes forward and starts to pierce the sample.

5.6 Sampling process

When the needle reaches the sampling position, a dilutor syringe takes out 100µl of blood. The blood
sample is separated from the diluent by air bubble. The air bubble was taken right after the needle
washing process of the previous measurement or during the preparing for measurement or wake-up
processes.
 51

When the needle is pulled out of the sample tube and washed by the wash-head from outside, the
primary blood sample will be transferred into the Shear Valve loops.

5.7 Needle washing processes

When the primary sample is taken out, the needle will be washed outside by the wash-head using
diluent and continuous drawing.

During Diluting process, the needle will be washed through twice. First a preliminary flow of diluent
slowly washes out the remnant of the whole blood into the washing head. Finally 2,5ml of diluent cleans
out the needle with high speed.

When the needle is clean, the system will take air bubble into the end of the needle preparing for the
next sampling.

5.8 Diluting processes

After the primary blood sample was taken out and transferred to the first 3 SV loops, the SV rotates to
Chamber Position (CP).

The loops in the SV counting from the needle side are:

1st – WBC (~16μl) 2nd – MIX (~16μl) 3rd – 4diff (~40μl) || 4th – RBC (~16μl)

4-diff has a special loop; it is transparent tubing loop and has higher volume.

The system makes the first step of RBC dilution, WBC dilution and 4diff pre-dilution in parallel.

WBC dilution is made by 2.5 ml mixture of diluent and lyse. The concentration of the lysing mixture is
approx. 1:4. The WBC dilution is mixed with air bubbles from the bottom of the WBC chamber.

During 4-diff pre-dilution the primary blood sample is forwarded with diluent into the TCU to preset of
the required temperature.

The first step of RBC dilution made by 2.2 ml of diluent and mixed with air bubbling from the bottom and
the side connector of the Mix chamber.

When the mix dilution is ready, a dilutor syringe moves the mix sample through the SV into the 4th
sampling loop. Then the SV rotates back to Needle Position (NP).

The RBC dilution is made in the RBC chamber with 2.5ml of diluent and mixed with air bubbling from the
bottom.
 52

5.9 Lysing process

The dilution for the WBC and optical BASO count is the same. The WBCs are shrink by the quick lyse
reagent to its nucleus except the BASOPHILES. After the sample dilution measured in impedance way,
the remaining sample is transferred to a separate tubing loop below SV and then to the optical head for
basophile count.

More complex lysing process is made on the 4diff dilution. It requires precise timing, volume control and
temperature conditions. The accurate temperature control is made by the TCU module.

In the TCU unit, there are loops for lyse, stopper, blood + lyse, pre-diluted blood mixture. Temperature
of these loops is controlled accurately.

After the 4-diff primer sample is pre-diluted and its temperature has been set, 3 syringes (lyse, stop,
diluent) make the precise dilution through the TCU unit, the Shear Valve 4-diff sample loop, ending in the
big vacuum puffer. Previously generated vacuum supports the smooth flow of the mixture.

The pre-diluted blood meets with the lysing reagent by a small “T” connector first. Right after this point
there is an inline mixer part in the TCU module, where the blood and lyse is mixed in its tube by flowing
through. After that the precisely mixed lysing dilution runs through one of the TCU heater loops for
better temperature conditions, and reaches the stopper “T” connector. The volume between lyse and
stopper “T” connectors is about 1ml, and this is the incubation zone for the lysing.

After adding the stopper reagent the mixture goes through another inline mixer, the SV 4-diff sampler
loop, and flows into the vacuum buffer. The SV 4diff sampler loop is volumetrically set by the software,
so the precisely lysed and stabilized 4diff mixture will be stopped in this loop, ready for measurement.

The parameters of the lysing process are the temperature of the dilution, the dilution ratios of the blood-
diluent-lyse-stopper mixture and the speed of the flow. These are determining the quality of the 4diff
dilution.

5.10 RBC counting process

The regulated vacuum aspirates RBC dilution (RBC) from the RBC chamber through the aperture. The
instrument counts the cells for 10 seconds in this case.

5.11 WBC/BASO counting

The regulated vacuum aspirates the WBC dilution from the WBC chamber through the aperture. The
instrument counts the cells for 10 seconds in this case.

After the WBC dilution has measured in capillary mode, the system transfers the remnant of the sample
to the BASO loop below the Shear Valve. The last parameter in measurement cycle is the optical BASO
count. The BASO count is measured by the optical head as like the 4-diff measurement.
 53

5.12 WBC 4Diff counting

The regulated vacuum aspirates the WBC 4diff dilution and the sheath fluid from Sheath puffer, through
parallel tubes (one for sheath flow, one for sample flow), through the flow-cell into the vacuum
chamber. The instrument counts the cells for 6 seconds in this case.

During measurement the core diameter of the sample stream in the flow-cell is approx. 250µm. This is
determined by the tube resistance ratio between the sheath and the sampling lines.

A self-cleaning process is started after the 4-diff measurement ends. The system changes the insertion
point of the vacuum, which starts to wash back the sampler needle and the 4diff sample loop in the
Shear Valve with sheath fluid. This process prepares the optical head for the following BASO count.

5.13 Chamber draining processes

Chamber draining is made by a special pressure control. Pressure controlled draining starts with vacuum
generation in the puffer reservoir. The liquid aspirated from the chambers while buffer reservoir and
thus the pressure sensor is monitored in the draining tube. The instrument can detect the empty state of
the chamber by drop of vacuum. Error message is send if the vacuum loss was not detected indicating
the measuring chamber draining procedure was failed.

5.14 Cleaning (rinsing) processes

All cleaning processes during a measurement cycle uses mainly diluent, and for special cases small
volume of lyse, and stopper reagent (e.g.: cleaning the adequate loops in the TCU).

The instrument performs the cleaning processes parallel to the measurement. When any of the fluidic
part has finished its work with the whole or diluted blood, cleaning process will start.

The main cleaning processes during measurement are:

- Needle washing outside, 2x inside into washing head

- Mix chamber washing

- RBC, WBC chamber washing, back flush and high voltage burn of apertures

- 4diff diluting loop (Shear Valve + TCU loops) washing

- Optical head and sampling line washing with sheath fluid

 54

5.15 Standby process

Because of the high throughput of the Quintus, the measuring cycle ends with empty WBC chamber, and
leaves the BASO sampling line is not cleaned. During continuous measurement the beginning of the next
measurement will automatically clean this loop.

Avoiding the BASO loop contamination the liquid is aspirated automatically from it two minutes after the
last measurement of a sample batch.

However, when there is no more measurement started, the instrument will go to stand-by mode after
some minutes.

Standby process performs cleaning, drains all vacuum chambers, drains all chambers then refill them
with diluent just above aperture level.

5.16 Wake up process

In this case the instrument prepares itself for the upcoming measurement cycle. Cleaning the wash head
and calibrating the blood sensor.

5.17 Shutdown process

The fluidic shutdown performs the following steps:

- Priming chambers with diluent to avoid drying out of aperture and prevent the chamber from
contamination.

- Needle is in up position and washed.

- All of the syringes are positioned down.

- Sample rotor moved out

 55

6 ADJUSTMENTS
For proper functioning, it is vital to adjust the system correctly. Although production sets the system in
house, sometimes these adjustments needs to be done on the field also. Both mechanical and software
adjustments has to be done properly to avoid measurement results or pneumatic errors.

Please note that the lifetime of the mechanics system is long. If there's a problem with the mechanical
system, most cases a proper adjustment or clean/grease is enough to solve the problem.

6.1 XY unit mechanical adjustments

The XY unit has 4 critical parts to adjust. These 4 adjustments can be done separately, but some of them
can affect other settings. See the 4 attributes of the XY unit which has to be set properly:

• XY (needle) horizontal movement

• XY (needle) vertical movement

• Needle position

• Washing head position

If any of these four attributions are not set correctly, the system can stop with a pneumatic error or give
improper results. These adjustments can be tested in Service testing menu.

The movements of the XY unit made from Service testing menu are slower than
normally. Some cases the improper hardware settings are not appear during the
movement used by Service testing menu. To make sure that the mechanical part is
working properly, the system has to make an Initialization process (hardware init).
This process moves the mechanical part (XY) faster, highlighting the problems
made by the faulty settings or misalignments. Hardware init can be done in Service
functions screen or the system is making an automatic init process, after e.g.
Washing head setting process is finished. Use these functions to check mechanical
settings also.

6.1.1 XY horizontal movement

The proper horizontal movement is important to make sampling from the Sample rotor and from the
Autoloader. The horizontal movement of the XY unit is made by one of the stepping motors and
positioned by two separate opto flags. The Front and Rear positions are defined by the settings of these
opto flags. The XY unit is moving on metal rods. These rods have to be greased after a period of time.
 56

6.1.1.1 Greasing the horizontal rods

There are 2 horizontal rods in the XY which is responsible for proper and smooth movement of the
needle and the needle holding block. These rods are cylinder shaped. They have a fix position in both the
front wall and rear metal block in the XY. The rods are not fixed tight, they're loose and can wobble to
move together with the needle block.

The third rod is squire shaped and responsible to hold the vertical belt for the needle. The front of this
rod is not fixed in a metal block, it “hangs” free.

Guide rod

Square
shaped
rod

Guide rod

Test the movement of the needle to Front or Rear positions in Service testing menu. If there is any
grinding noise because of the improper lubrication, these three rods has to be lubricated.

Name (and part number) of the lubricant: Photolube 1141122_S

6.1.1.2 Set opto flags for horizontal movement

If the XY unit hits the front wall of the mechanics (Front position, above the sample rotor) or stops in a
non-centered position above the Autoloader docking station (Rear position). Use a hexagon 2.0 mm
screw to lose the fixing screws holding the opto flags. Align them to make the XY horizontal movement
stop earlier or later, depending on the actual state of the flags.
 57

Opto flags

Opto LEDs

Opto sensors

Fixing screws

Front wall

Use handmade horizontal positioning of the needle, place the needle to the correct position, then align
the opto flag to the opto sensor, see that the indication LEDs are turned on when the flag reached the
sensor.

When the needle reached the ‘Front’ position, the gap between the needle holding block and the front
wall of the XY unit should be around 0.5 mm.

When the needle reached the ‘Rear’ position, make sure that the two vertical rods -which are holding
the washing head can push the tube holders to the correct position on the Autoloader's docking station.
 58

Needle holding block

Washing

Washing
head holder

AL docking

Tube

The opto sensors are fixed to the XY PCB and cannot be adjusted.

6.1.2 XY vertical adjustment

This setting is necessary for the vertical motor movements because this adjustment sets the opto end-
switches of the XY unit.

6.1.2.1 Basic operation

During testing the vertical movement of the XY, some strange noise can appear or maybe the vertical
movement is not performed correctly and it's causing the pneumatic error. These problems can be found
if we understand how the mechanics works.

Find the opto wheel (black cogwheel) at the rear side of the XY unit. Note that the vertical opto sensors -
next to the opto wheel- are using negative logics. The sensor is always triggered by the opto wheel,
except when the small holes on the wheel reaches the sensors. These wholes indicates the Up and Down
positions and the needle should stop when the wholes reaches the sensors. The opto LEDs are always on,
except when the needle reaches the ‘Up’ or ‘Down’ positions. The opto wheel is connected to the
vertical belt -by the middle square shape rod -and they are moving together. The needle is connected to
the belt by two screws. If the opto wheel reaches the ‘Up’ or ‘Down’ position, the needle should also
stop.
 59

The problem is that the mechanical structure of the XY is making the needle stop before the whole on
the opto wheel is reaching the opto sensor. This can be happen in 'Down' position, because the needle
mechanics is reaching the position earlier than the opto sensor gets the signal to stop. Or in 'Up'
position, when the Washing head is already reached the highest position and hits the needle's vertical
block, while the opto sensor still didn't received the 'Up' position signal.

6.1.2.2 Adjusting the needle’s vertical position

The problem can be easily set by losing the two

screws behind the needle and let the needle
"release" the belt and fall down to "Down" position.
Because the screws are loose, the opto wheel and
the belt can move separately from the needle, the
needle itself is down and not moving.

Disengaged screws

Now the opto wheel can be set after the needle,

which means the opto wheel should reach Down
position. Press 'Down' in Service testing screen to move the opto wheel to 'Down' position. The needle is
already in 'Down' position. When the opto wheel is in 'Down' position, tight the two screws which makes
the needle "grab" the belt again. Now the vertical system is set together again, press 'Up' and 'Down'
buttons in Service testing screen to see that the movements are proper. Test the movement with Init
process also.

Adjustment is successful if LEDs goes on before moving part reaches end of mechanical range.

Changing the vertical position of the needle on the vertical belt can affect the position of the washing
head and the needle. Please perform a needle and washing head setting after vertical position is set.
 60

6.1.3 Washing head settings

The position of the washing head is critical for the
system to make the sampling and needle washing
correctly. The washing head contains two metal
tubes to make the washing process. The bottom is
the inlet for diluent to wash the needle from
outside, the top is the outlet to aspirate the liquid
from the needle to the waste. During the washing
process, the system also pushes diluent to the
needle from the shear valve, ensuring that the
needle will be cleaned from the inside also. The
relative position of the needle and the washing head
is important to make the aspiration properly,
otherwise the diluent from the needle will flow out from the bottom of the washing head.

To set the Washing head’s position, go to Service functions 2/6 menu and press `Set Washing head’
button. The message will appear to confirm that the washing head setting process will start. Press ‘Ok’.
The system will pull the needle and the washing head to up position. Now the system holds the XY unit in
the Up position until the setting is ready. The washing head is in position if the distance between the top
of the head and the metal block above it is close to 1mm.

1 mm gap

This distance is not strict, but it’s enough to provide space for the washing head when the needle moves.
If washing head’s position is higher, it can hit the metal block when it’s raised to up position and it can
hit the sample rotor and the tube holders if the position is too low. If the position is not correct and has
to be set, find the two screws on the top of the XY unit. These two screws are holding the two rods of the
washing head. Loosing these screws make the height settings enable.
 61

1.5 hexagon screws to hold the

washing head leading rods

Needle block

2.0 hexagon screws to

hold the needle

6.1.4 Needle setting

The height of the needle is important to make a good aspiration from the blood sample. The aspiration
whole is on the side of the needle, but for height setting, we use the bottom end of the needle. This end
of the needle is sharp, but during the procedure, there is no need to touch this part. For position
checking, the needle can be moved by hand or by the software.

6.1.4.1 Handmade setting

Manually push the needle block to down position. Make sure that the needle is not hitting the sample
rotor’s plate. Check that the needle is completely down, then take a look at the end of the needle. The
distance between the sample rotor’s plate and the needle should be 1mm.

If the distance is not correct, find the two holding

screws at the other end of the needle. Use a
hexagon 2.0 mm tool to lose the screws and set the
needle’s position.

1mm distance

Note that when the needle is down, the screws are

covered by the mechanics of the XY. The needle has
to be raised to have access to the screws.

The needle is sharp and it can cause injury! Always use gloves when needle setting
is performed! Make sure that the whole on the needle is facing the sample rotor.
 62

6.1.4.2 Software made setting

In Service functions 2/6 menu, press ‘Set needle’ button. The system will ask to confirm that the needle
setting should start. Press ‘Ok’. The needle will move down and up. The software will ask to confirm that
the end of the needle tip is visible at the bottom of the washing head. If the needle tip is not visible or
it’s leaning out too much, loose the holding screws to adjust. If setting is ready, press ‘Ok’.

6.2 Shear valve mechanical setting

This opto setting is necessary for the correct movement of the Shear Valve. Although the SV is stopped
mechanically in its end positions, the opto sensors provide the necessary feedback signal for the
electronics that the movement has been done. The setting of the mechanics and the opto sensors are
made by production, sometimes these alignments has to be checked or realigned.

6.2.1 Shear valve lower disc position setting

For adjusting the lower disc, remove the thumb
screw and place the upper disc to a safe position on
the mechanics under the optical head. The lower
disc of the shear valve is positioned by two metal
plates. Setting up the plate on the right side is
critical.

Plate and disc connection surface

The plate is fixed by to screws. This is the basic

setting of the valve, if the disc is not fixed correctly,
the amount of sample can be different during each
measurement.

The disc and the plate should connect in the full length of the connection surface. The disc shouldn’t
wobble or move. If the setting of the disc is not proper, loosening the two screws on the bottom and
realigning the connection between the plate and the
disc should be the first step. This setting should be
set with a hexagon 2.5 mm screwdriver. The two
connection surface should be parallel. When the
lower disc is aligned, make sure about the following:

• the disc position is horizontal

• the plate fixing screws are tight
• the sides are parallel
• the disc meets the plate with full surface
• the lower disc cannot move
 63

While making an alignment and the shear valve is disassembled, make sure that the internal surface of
the ceramics is clean, not scratched. If the plate and disc is aligned make sure that the second plate on
the left side is pushed to the disc. This plate ensures that the shear valve will not move away from the
aligning plate.

After the lower disc is aligned, mount the upper disc and fix the thumb screw back to position.

6.2.2 Shear valve upper disc setting

The upper disc and the mechanical stoppers (bumpers) are aligned during QC/production. If this setting
is compromised, the mechanics should be aligned again. To have access to the mechanical stoppers, the
metal cover of the shear valve should be removed. The cover is fixed to its place by the two inner screws
behind the thumb screw.

The shear valve’s task is to change position to guide the sample and the reagents to the correct
direction. For this, the tubes should be perfectly aligned which means that the mechanics should stop
the turning of the discs in a correct position.

Bumper fixing screws

Shear valve upper disc

Plates holding the ceramic

The mechanic part is designed to change the motor’s circular motion to horizontal motion. There is a
horizontal drive behind the ceramic disc which can be shifted left or right by the stepping motor.
 64

Horizontal drive

Shear valve moving nodes

Mechanical stoppers (bumpers)

This rod has two nodes which are surrounding and moving the upper disc’s rod. This is how the disk is
moving. The nodes can reach a stopping mechanic block on both sides of the mechanics. If nodes hit the
stoppers, the turning of the shear valve will stop. When the shear valve is stopped, the small metal tubes
on the upper and lower discs should be perfectly aligned to each other.

The shear valve has a free hole on the edge of each ceramics. This hole is not connected to the tubing
system and it’s easy to access. There is no special tool to check shear valve alignment; a simple paper clip
is enough to check the alignment in both positions. The paper clip should access both holes on the
ceramics. During the test, make sure the shear valve reached to bumper and cannot turn more.

The paper clip has a size and straight part just enough to push through the ceramics.

Opto sensors

Opto rod

Paper clip in alignment hole

Alignment hole

The lower disc has two holes to test both positions. Test one position at a time.

If the paper clip can go through both discs, it means the shear valve is in position.
 65

If the paper clip cannot go through the holes the upper discs position has to be realigned. The bummer
fixing screw should be loose to make the bumper move free. Find the correct position where the paper
clip fits into both holes. If the position is ok, push the bumper to position until it hits the node of the
drive. If the positions are set, the bumpers have to be fixed again by tightening the screw.

Note that the shear valve needs to be pushed to the other position to have access to the bumper fixing
screws. Remove the paper clip to turn the shear valve with the horizontal drive.

Use the paper clip to see alignments in both positions (CP, NP). Make sure that the bumper holding
screws are well tight.

6.2.3 Setting the opto sensors of the shear valve.

There are two opto sensors for the shear valve to sense when the ceramics reached their positions. The
upper disc has a rod called the opto rod. This rod moves inside the opto sensors when the shear valve is
turned. The sensor should give the signal to the software to stop the motor because the positioning of
the shear valve is done.

The opto sensors are placed on a PCB called Shear

Valve OPTO (SVOPTO). The sensors can be
positioned separately; it doesn’t need to align both
if only one sensor is misaligned.

Shear valve LEDs

SVOPTO PCB

The sensors are connected to a LED, which turn on

when the sensors are triggered. Use these LED to
check alignment. Turn the shear valve clockwise to the outer (chamber) position. Make sure that the
shear valve is in the maximal position and cannot turn more. Put the paper clip to the alignment hole. It
should access both holes easily. The outer sensor’s LED should be turned on in this position. Check that
the LED is on, position the LED PCB if it’s needed. Use hexagon 2.5 mm screwdriver. If the sensor is in
position and the LED is on, try to turn the shear valve counter-clockwise. Because the paper clip is in the
alignment holes, the shear valve will only turn in a very small amount. Find the maximum position until
the paper clip lets the shear valve turn. In this position, the LED should be still on. Make sure that the
LED is on and set the SVOPTO to make the LED light again. Remove the paper clip and turn the shear
valve to the inner (needle) position. Repeat the process to set the opto in this position too. Move the
shear valve by hand when aligning opto sensors, remove the paper clip when done. Check the alignment
by moving the shear valve in Service testing menu. Note the in needle position, the SVOPTO is fixed with
two screws. Loose and tight both screws during alignments. The SVOPTO PCB screws can be accessed by
the holes under the blood sensor.
 66

6.3 Amplifier offset setting

Offset values of
the channels Auto-offset checkbox

Send settings button

Field for manual
offsetting

The analyzer contains several amplifier circuits to gain signals during the measurements. An ideal
amplifier gives zero mV output if input is has 0mV. In reality, the amplifier's output always has some
electric potential which is different than zero. This voltage is the offset of the amplifier and has to be
zeroed to avoid any effects on the measurement results. In Service menu Adjustments screen, it's
possible to set these values manually or enable the checkbox to use the auto-offset option. There are
three amplifier channels in the optical head, all three should be zeroed to avoid noise during optical
measurement.

CH0: Channel for Low angle gain

CH1: Channel for High angle gain

CH0 DC: Channel for optical head DC level.

Amplifier offset should be between ±5mV. It's possible to check offset values by pressing Read data
button. Reading the offset continuously will turn the start button red, indicating that the internal
communication is busy. The system cannot command the Low Level software until the offset reading is
Stopped. Impedance amplifier offset can be adjusted separately, also by filling the potentiometer field in
the middle or by using Auto-offset checkbox.

Always press 'Send settings' button to finish adjustments. Offset setting are done by LSDACQ. If Auto-
offset is not working or values are not close to zero, replace the LSDACQ.
 67

6.4 Blood sensor calibration

Quintus contains a blood sensor to ensure that the value of the sample is the same during every
measurement. After every startup, the system calibrates the blood sensor automatically by making a
Wakeup process.

During wakeup, the system creates a bubble in the wash head and pulls the bubble inside the blood
sensor. The sensor measures the number of steps that the dilutor has to make to pull the bubble into the
sensor. The system repeats the process three times and records the number of the steps. During the
wakeup, these numbers are displayed in MDA screen if MDA On checkbox is enabled.

Result of blood sensor

calibration

MDA checkbox has

to be enabled. Test
functions 4
activated and Press
Run Test from
Service functions
1/6
 68

If the number of steps are the same for two times (out of three), the sensor calibration is successful. If all
three values are different, the sensor calibration is failed. Failure of the calibration is displayed as a 'T'
flag after a blank, control or human measurement is finished and warning exclamation mark is also
shown on the bottom of the display. If blood sensor calibration problem appears, it's possible to run
Wakeup process directly from Service functions. See test functions list in section 7.3.1.1.

The sensor can have problems sensing the bubble's position because the sampling tube is not
transparent enough or it's dirty. In this case the tube between the needle and the shear valve has to be
replaced.

Note that the calibration value is strongly depends on the state and position of the sample tube. This
tube in the blood sensor is not fixed and its position can be changed by pulling the tube during a shear
valve adjustment or cleaning. The tube is set correctly if calibration value is in a range 44-49. If the value
is different, it can cause sampling problems, 'W' flag or it can happen that the sampling tube will be too
tense when the needle is piercing a sample from the Auto-Sampler.

Make sure that the tube between the shear valve and the blood sensor is horizontal, not too tense and
transparent.
 69

6.5 Sample position setting

The measurement starts with a blood sample
aspiration. The blood sample needs to be moved to a
specific location through the shear valve. Open the
front cover of the analyzer and observe the beginning
of the measurement process. The below adjustment is
necessary to allow the sample reach this location – to
avoid sampling errors and thus avoid optical
measurement errors

During sampling, the blood sample must go beyond the

last loop of the shear valve, as indicated on the image.

The purple area is a schematic representation of the purple area on the shear valve in the Quintus.
Please locate this tube in the analyzer (the tube is connected to the V41/1 tube in the vertical tube
organizer.

Length of sample position

used if blood sensor is
enabled

Default blood position value

is used if blood sensor is not
enabled

Run a control blood sample. If the sample position is between 2 and 8 mm, then do not change the
default position. If the three loops are not filled with blood or the sample stops more than 8mm beyond
the shear valve, the sampling settings has to be set in Adjustments screen.

In Adjustments screen, the sample position can be set at Needle tube full length/sample position. If
blood sensor is enabled, the system uses the top value (70 by default) to position the sample. This value
can be calibrated by pressing Calibrate length button and look for the air bubble.
 70

• If button is pressed, the system will create a bubble in the wash head and pulls it through the
sample tube and the three loops to the top of the shear valve. The software will ask whether the
bubble is visible at the top of the shear valve, this has to be checked visually.

• If the bubble is not arrived to the correct position, press Cancel to make the system (the dilutor)
pulls the bubble higher from the shear valve. The system will ask to check every new position
after Cancel is pushed.

• If the bubble is in position press Ok. The system will overwrite the old sample position value
(default 70) with the newly set value.

• Rerun a control sample. Observe the position. Run calibration again if sample position is not
proper or type in a new value by hand. If value is changed by hand, press Set length button to
save the new value.

If the blood sensor is disabled or not working properly, the system will use the bottom value so called
the default blood position. It is not possible to calibrate this value, but it can be modified by typing in a
new value. After the value is modified, press Set default blood position button to make new setting
accepted. This value should be in a range 0.190-0.220.

Make sure that the format of this entered value is correct and “0.” is visible. It's important to keep this
value under 0.22 because larger values will make the blood sample override the shear valve and will
enter to the reservoir.

Always use blood to test the sample position after the following:

• sample position value was calibrated

• sample position value was changed (with blood sensor)

• default blood position value was changed (without blood sensor)

• blood sensor was turned off or on

• sample tube was replaced or its position was realigned

• shear valve was disassembled

• XY adjustments was realigned (horizontal, vertical, wash head, needle)

• wash head was cleaned

Always test blood position from Autoloader. Make sure that sample position is proper both from Sample
rotor and Autoloader.
 71

6.6 Pressure sensor adjustment

Similar to the amplifiers, the pressure sensors also has offsets. It is also possible to zero the pressure
sensor's offsets in Service menu-Service functions 5/6 by pressing the Start adjustment button. The
offset compensating is done automatically, showing the offset results in mBars. These values must be 0 ±
20 mBars. If one value is higher than 20mBars, the pressure board needs to be replaced.

The sensors can work with higher offsets than 20mBars, but if values are higher than 30mBars the
system will give a pressure sensor offset error and if the values are higher than 40mBars it will cause a
pneumatic error.

6.7 Set serial number

It is also possible to enter the instrument's serial number in Service menu-Service functions 5/6. Connect
and external keyboard and type in the correct number and press Set serial button (code 6484 to save).
The serial number of the instrument is stored in the Hardware block, the LSDACQ and the DimmBoard.
Serial number is also indicated in the label on the back of the instrument.

Serial number has to be typed again if:

• Dimmboard was changed
• Low level software was reinstalled
• LSDACQ was changed
• HDD was changed
• High level software was reinstalled

6.8 WBC preheater

In Service menu-Service functions 4/6, it is possible to set the WBC preheater's temperature. The default
value is 375 indicating that the temperature should be 37.5 °C. By pressing Read data button, it's
possible to check the preheater current temperature.

Make sure that the preheater's value is 375 (37.5°C), if it is not possible to set the temperature or values
are too high, check WBC preheater's cable or replace LSDACQ board.

6.9 Setting Laser values

Every laser head has unique values which have to be set in the instrument for proper working. These
values are set by manufacturer, but has to be set again if the laser head was replaced. In Service menu-
Auto Alignment (code 13579) display screen 2/2 it's possible to check or overwrite the values. The Read
DC button and the laser values are accessible, but other options are password protected. Password is
asked every time when entering Auto alignment menu.

Do not change the laser values unless it's necessary.

 72

6.9.1 Calibration procedure of optical heads

1. We have two diffrent versions of Optical head available.

This procedure describes how to input laser settings after optical head replacement and
how to perform scatter calibration for adjustment of scatter gram

2. Enter to Service menu/Optical alignment menu (password:13579) and set Laser power settings
values as shown below depending on which version that is present in the instrument, an
external keyboard is needed to put in these values. Values will be stored after click Save values
button.
In case keyboard does not respond, make sure that Windows control status button is blue
marked from Service function 2/6.

New version of Laser settings: Old version of Laser settings:

3. Go to Service menu-Service calibration, set GravityX and GravityY to 1,100 and press Accept.
These values needs to be set to make a proper start for scatter calibration.
 73

4. Go to Advanced/Setup/Columns, add GravityX and GravityY columns to the right list, and move
them to the left columns by pressing the left Add arrow. Press Ok to save settings.

5. Perform a control measurement using a control blood. In the database find the results of the
measurement. Check GravityX and GravityY values of the measurement and compair them with
the Gravity values shown on the insert sheet for actual control lot.
 74

6. If measured Gravity values (X and Y) are between 0,8 x Lot Gravity values (X and Y) and 1,2
Lot Gravity values (X and Y)(+-20%), then the Gravity values can be calibrated by software.
Then proceed with a normal scatter calibration, verify with control that diff results are within
target values from control insert sheet and that scatter gram looks normal. Proceed with fresh
patient samples to check that scatter seems normal from Human profile

7. If measured GravityX is lower then 80% of Lot GravityX, raise low angle gain in auto alignment
menu to bring the measured Gravity X value closer to Lot GravityX. If measured GravityX is
higher then 120% of Lot GravityX, then lower the low angle gain to bring the measured GravityX
value closer to Lot GravityX.

8. If measured GravityY is lower than 80% of Lot GravityY, raise high angle gain in auto alignment
menu to bring the measured GravityY value closer to Lot GravityY. If measured GravityY is
higher then 120% of Lot GravityY, then lower the high angle gain to bring the measured GravityY
value closer to Lot GravityY.
9. Repeat the procedure untill the measured Gravity values are between 80% and 120% of Lot
Gravity values.

10. If values are ok, enter service calibration and enable scatter calibration.
 75

11. Press Accept and go to Calibration menu for scatter calibration. Perform a scatter calibration
(min 3 measurements).
12. The new factors for GravX and GravY will appear. Press ok.
13. Scatter Calibration is done. Go to service calibration menu, in activated ’Enable scatter
calibration’ button, otherwise impedance calibration procedure will not be available.

6.9.2 Short guide for laser values

This is a short description to give information about the values and settings of the optical head assuming
that user understand the operation of the optical measurement.

Concepts:

Scatter gram Gravity X

Scatter scale X Gravity Y
Scatter scale Y Low angle gain
WOC4 High angle gain
WOCB DC level
Laser Power

Scatter diagram (Scattergram):

The scatter gram is responsible to view the white blood cell

populations. The 4 diff scatter indicates the 4 differential
populations (LYM, MONO, NEU, EO), the Baso scatter shows the
BASOPHIL population. Both scatter grams are indicated as a
square, surrounding all the populations. In default, the scatter
has a size 1.00 x 1.00. This scatter gram can be magnified, making
the cells / populations change positions. The size of the scatter
is defined by the scatter X (horizontal) and scatter Y (vertical)
values. These values are 1.00 in default and can be modified by
calibrating the scatter.

The values of Scatter X and Y are shown in service calibration menu or it can also be found on factory
settings menu.
 76

Gravity values:

Gravity values are specific numbers for all type of control blood for instruments with optical
measurements. These numbers indicates the center of gravity.
All cells (which is part of a population and not noise) are counted and added horizontally, line by line and
divided by the number of lines shown in the scatter. This value is the Gravity X value.
The Gravity Y is created the same way; all cells attached to a population are added vertically and divided
by the number of columns shown in the scatter.

All controls have its own gravity values, these values are used as target reference during calibration. The
gravity values are present on Boule Cal/Con insert sheet and should be manually entered before a
scatter calibration.
(After a measurement, the gravity values are indicated in the measurement database.)

WOC4 and WOCB values:

WOC4 (WBC Optical Count for 4 diff scatter): indicates the ratio of WBC cells included in the 4 diff
measurement. Min. value: 2.72, in case value is lower the no diff will appear together with X flag in
Warning field from result screen
WOCB (WBC Optical Count for Baso scatter): indicates the ratio of WBC cells included in the BASO
measurement. Min. value: 5.44, In case value is lower the no Baso result will appear together with x flag
in Warning field from result screen.

These values are also displayed in the measurement database, showing that the number of cells during
measurement is enough.
If WOC4 is low (and WOCB is ok), it can indicate that the TCU is clogged and only a little amount of cells
entered the flow cell.
If WOCB is low (and WOC4 is ok), it can indicate that there is a partial clogging in the WBC chamber, not
allowing the cells to reach the flow cell.
If both values are low, it means that the flow cell is clogged (both 4diff and Baso cells aren’t sensed by
the laser) and needs to be cleaned by software or manually.
 77

Neutrophil area center point:

If the measurements are displayed with Analyzer Spy

software, there is a chance to enlarge the image of the
actual measurement’s scatter. There is a small green
cross appeared on the scatter (both 4diff and Baso).
This marker is created to help the laser’s calibration
procedure, if there’s no control blood available for
measurement.
The marker indicates the Neutrophil populations
center point. With the use of this marker, the user can
manually set the scatter X and Y values in the Analyzer
Spy software. By enlarging the scatter with X and Y
scale scatter values, the Neu population field can
shifted to a position where the marker is the middle of
the Neutrophil population. This is a harsh approximate calibration showing the proper Scatter values. This
values can be set in the instrument manually in service calibration menu or factory settings.

Laser Power and gains:

In optical alignment menu, there is a chance to set the optical head values, laser power, low and high
angle gains. These values are set by manufacturer, but these values can be modified to align the optical
head operation to the instrument.

Every optical head has a unique setting of values. These values can be set in auto
alignment menu and stored in the instrument’s memory. The values are not stored
inside the laser. If optical head is changed in the instrument, the new laser’s values
have to be set in auto alignment menu to make the new laser’s operation proper.
Also note that these values are reset to default, if the windows is reinstalled or a
hardware block is changed.
 78

Laser power values (both for 4diff and Baso) indicate the current operating the Laser Diode. The higher
the laser power value, the lower the current flows though the diode. If the power values are increased,
the current will be decreased making the scatter smaller in both dimensions (X and Y).
Laser power value had a range from 54 to 96. Older (2012 and older) type of laser’s must keep this range
(54-96) with a standard low angle gain 48, and high angle gain 112.
In new type of optical heads (created in 2013 and after), the optics, flow cell size and amplifier is
modified.
This modifications increases the ranges both for power and gains. See ranges for new type of optical
heads below:

Laser power: 70 – 130

Low angle gain: 0 – 255

High angle gain: 0 – 255

Note that the lower the laser power value, the higher the Laser diode’s current, which can create NOISE
during laser blank measurements. These NOISE is indicated by warning flags n, N at the end of a
measurement.

The diode’s light is sensed by the detector. The area of

detection is masked by a metal plate to ignore the LED’s
direct light hitting the sensing zone. The zone is separated to
two different subzones. The internal zone responsible to
sense the low angle signals (size of cells), the outer larger
zone is for sensing the high angle signals (internal structure
of cells). Both incoming signals are very weak and must be
gained by an amplifier. The Low and High angle gains are the
gain values of the laser’s amplifier, these values also can be
set in auto alignment menu. In older optical heads, this
values are standard 48 and 112, but new optical head’s -with
3 stripes on the side- has a range of gain values.

The gain values are good to make small scatter alignments to improve the Gravity values and Scatter
sizes in small amount. Note that the values are directly proportional, the higher the value the higher the
gain is.
DC level:
The DC level value indicates the amount of light hitting the LOW ANGLE SENSING ZONE without any cells
involved. This value has a minimum and maximum range. Low DC level could mean that the beam of light
is misaligned, high DC level means dirty flow cell or optics.
 79

7 Verification procedures
7.1 Self-test
The analyzer has built in test function to check and evaluate operation of internal modules and systems.
The function is accessible from the Main Menu-Advanced-Diagnostics-Self-test.

There are two display screen of tests: electronic and pneumatic. Total process takes approximately 2
minutes, and provides results of each tested parameter. Both tests are run at the same time by clicking
on the “Start” button. Accepted ranges will be displayed as below.

Big buffer time Small buffer time

Generate 3000 - 13000sec Generate1 1200 - 2800sec
Release 3000 - 6000sec Generate2 1200 - 2800sec
Release 700 - 1300sec
Big buffer drift Small buffer drift
Maximum 540 - 560mBar Maximum 225 - 235mBar
Minimum 530 - 560mBar Minimum 215 - 235mBar
Drift -5 - 15mBar Drift -5 - 15mBar
Pump status Null pressures
Pump1 1-1 Sheath -20 - 20mBar
Pump2 1-1 Capillary -20 - 20mBar
Chamber -20 - 20mBar
TCU Laser temperature/Optical
Reference 25 - 38°C Laser off 0 - 0.05V
Actual Reference +- 0.2 °C Laser on 0.06 - 0.8V
Sink 0 - 70°C
HGB LED Battery
HGB Dark 0 - 3000 pulses Battery voltage 2.7 - 3.3V
HGB light 3000 - 60000 pulses +12V 11.4 - 12.6V
-12V -12.6 - -11.4V
Electrode Noise/Pulse
Voltage 45 - 55V pls/5sec 0 - 2000 pulses
Current 620 – 680μA 20000pls 19990 - 20050 pulses
Offset -5.0 – 5.0mV

Would any value fall outside the above defined range, the SW will indicate it with a red, “Failed” string.
Correct and acceptable results are indicated with a “Passed” string.
 80

7.1.1 Quintus Self-Test Guide

Quintus Self-Test provides information about the actual status of hardware and software of the analyzer.

Note!! Even if self-test fails it does not means that instrument necessary is out of order.

It can mean that some values are on the limit but instrument itself can work ok. This test is not meant
that en-user should perform. This guide is intended for helping service engineers to correctly interpret
Self-test result and to provide guidelines in troubleshooting the instrument.

7.1.1.1 General information

High level SW version: …….

Low Level SW version: …….

• Low and high level SW version must be identical. For proper functioning of the instrument the
two software versions has to be the same.

LSDACQ Firmware; LSDACQ PIC; Optical head; TCU SW versions; LSDACQ version:

• All these must have version numbers. If version number isn’t displayed that can indicate failure
of part or communication error.

• LSDACQ version number provide information about compatibility with certain electronic
components;

OPT sensor board; TCU board; Pressure board; Laser driver board:

• These are intelligent components which communicate with the low level software via I2C bus. All
boards must be „PRESENT” for correct operation of the analyzer.

• If any of these components is reported „NOT PRESENT” that indicate failure of part, cable or
connection problem.

Corrective action: Check cables and LSDACQ status LEDs

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7.1.1.2 Electronic Self-Test parameters

TCU temperature(C°):

• Actual: normal operating temperature of TCU unit is 29+/- 0,2 C°. Lower/higher temperature
indicate failure of heater/cooler circuit.

Troubleshoot accordingly.

• Heatsink: cooling of TCU is done by Peltier elements. Heat generated on the other side of the
elements is dissipated by a heatsink and cooling fan. Failure of fan leads to overheating and
damage of Peltier elements.

Corrective action: check and/or replace TCU

• Laser DC level: Laser DC (Dark Current) is the reference value of the optical measurement circuit.
Measurement is performed on diluent. When the optical flow cell is clean and bubble-free, laser
light isn’t scattered by anything and only a very small signal should be measured by the
detectors.

• Laser off: DC level recorded without laser light. If out of range, probably the Opto sensor card is
defective. In such case usually the Laser on value is out of range too.

Corrective action: Check laser head's cables, change Laser Head Assembly

• Laser on: DC level with laser light. If Laser off value is in range but Laser on value is high, it can
indicate: dirty flow cell, bubbles in the flow cell, misaligned laser.

Corrective action:

- run „Flow Cell Cleaning” followed by blank measurement to wash out any air bubble from the flow
cell and repeat Self-test. If DC level is OK => nothing else to do

- manually clean* the flow cell with hypochlorite solution

- wipe the flow cell sides with lint-free lens paper dampened with isoprophyl-alcohol

- change Laser Head Assembly

Laser head must be opened for this operation! Power off the analyzer, and proceed with precaution;
take extra care not to damage or misadjust any internal component of Laser Head.
 82

Electrode: These are the main parameters of impedance amplifier board.

• Voltage; Current: is out of range, the amplifier board or the high voltage board might be
defective

Corrective action: check or replace HVB board, check or replace amplifier board, check cables

• Offset: if voltage and current is in range, offset can be adjusted. If the offset cannot be adjusted
or it is unstable, check or replace the amplifier board and /or LSDACQ.

Corrective action: change the impedance amplifier board or LSDACQ

• Battery / Power supply: Monitors the supply voltage of LSDACQ board (+/- 12V) and the real-
time clock battery voltage.

Troubleshoot accordingly

Laser parameters:

• Temperature(C°): temperature of laser diode block, for information purposes only

• Laser Power: the value of laser power setting. It is not percentage (!), just a digital number.

DO NOT CHANGE THIS VALUE UNLESS IT'S NECESSARY OR YOU INSTALL A NEW LASER HEAD IN THE
ANALYZER. IN THAT CASE LASER POWER VALUE TO BE SET IS WRITTEN ON THE AUTOALIGNMENT
SHEET OF NEW LASER HEAD OR ON THE SIDE OF THE OPTICAL HEAD.

• HGB Head (electronic): HGB diode and sensor test.

• HGB dark: measured without light, if out of range probably the sensor is defective or too much
external light reached the sensor

• HGB light: measured with HGB diode on, if out of range that can indicate diode or sensor failure

Corrective action: check chamber and amplifier for salt buildups, replace HGB head

• WBC Preheater: if out of range it can be adjusted in „Service menu-Service functions 4/6”

• LSDACQ: show the temperature of the Dimmboard

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7.1.1.3 Pneumatic Self-Test parameters

• Big buffer time(msec): The time necessary to generate the required vacuum in the big(sheath)
buffer.
• Generate(P1+P2): failed indicate weak pump, leak in vacuum system, bad valve head or valve
coil, kinked tubing, etc.
• Release: time necessary to completely vent the buffer, if failed, valve #5, related tubing and vent
nozzle can be at the origin of failure
• Small buffer time(msec): The time necessary to generate the required vacuum in the
small(capillary) buffer.
• Generate: failed indicate weak pump, leak in vacuum system, bad or valve head or valve coil,
kinked tubing, etc.
• Release: time necessary to completely vent the buffer, if failed, valve #5, related tubing and vent
nozzle can be at the origin of failure
• Big buffer drift(mBar): Failed indicate leakage in the sheath buffer-related vacuum system.
Troubleshoot accordingly.
• Small buffer drift(mBar): Failed indicate leakage in the capillary buffer-related vacuum system.
Troubleshoot accordingly.
• Max vacuum P1(mBar/sec): The maximum value of vacuum that can be generated by the pump
in a given range of time. Failed indicate weak pump or problem in related valves or tubing.
• Max vacuum P2(mBar/sec): The maximum value of vacuum that can be generated by the pump
in a given range of time. Failed indicate weak pump or problem in related valves or tubing.
• Pump status: Failed indicate that the pump wasn’t sensed by the electronic system. Possible
pump, connection, cable or PPB board failure
• Pressures – buffers vented(mBar): Show the remaining pressure/vacuum in the buffers, after
the instrument released the vacuum. If (any)failed, check related tubing, valves, and pressure
sensor board, run pressure offset adjustment and repeat Self-test.
• Noise/Pulse: This is an electronic test but it require diluent to be present in the counting
chambers.
• pls/8 sec: if failed either electronic noise is picked up by the electrode or the amplifier board is
noisy. Troubleshoot accordingly
• 20000 pls: a test circuit generate 20000 pulses and the counter number them. Failed indicate
defective amplifier board
• HGB head: Same test as in the electronic section, but with diluent in the counting chamber.
 84

7.2 Error Messages

The analyzer checks the operations of several mechanic, fluidic and electronic parts during
measurement. The system shows the type of the error on the LCD display if any kind of malfunction is
detected. General error will be displayed as pneumatically error, this error does not give much detailed
information.

If pneumatically error message pops up, then click details button to have more information related to
below error codes and it will be more understandable to relate the error to a specific unit/module

Error code Description

0 EG_NO_ERROR
1 EG_BAD_VALVE_NUMBER
2 EG_BAD_PUMP_NUMBER
3 EG_PNEU_INIT
4 EG_BAD_CHAMBER_NUMBER
5 EG_ALL_VALVES_OFF
6 EG_NO_ANSWER
7 EG_CANCEL
8 EG_ABORT
10 EG_UNKNOWN
11 EG_ERROR_HANDLER
12 EG_NO_CONNECTION
13 EG_PRIME
14 EG_TEST_FUNCTION
15 EG_MEASURE_PUFFER
16 EG_MEASURE_PUFFER_SPEC
17 EG_CALIB_SENSORS
18 EG_TEST_MOTORS
19 EG_TEST_VALVES
20 EG_TEST_PUMPS
21 EG_PREP_FOR_SHIP
22 EG_CLEAN
23 EG_WASHHEAD_WASH
24 EG_BLANK
25 EG_STRESS
26 EG_EMPTYCHAMBER
27 EG_SHUTDOWN
28 EG_HARDWARE_INIT
29 EG_PNEUCONTROL
30 EG_PNEUCONTROL_VAR
31 EG_PNEUCONTROL_THR
 85

32 EG_PNEUCONTROL_INIT
33 EG_MEASURECONTROL
34 EG_SV
35 EG_SEND_EVENT
36 EG_NEXT_MIX
37 EG_NEXT_PIERCE
38 EG_INIT_PORT
39 EG_INIT_FPGA
40 EG_INIT_PIC
41 EG_INIT_MDATA
42 EG_LOOP
43 EG_SAMPLER_DELEG
44 EG_MOVING_DELEG
45 EG_NMOVING_DELEG
46 EG_COMM_PARAM
47 EG_TEST_DISLPAY
48 EG_INIT_STATE
49 EG_FILE_NOT_FOUND
50 EG_FILE_NO_INFORMATION
51 EG_FILE_OPEN
52 EG_GET_FILE
53 EG_SEND_FILE
54 EG_CRC_CREATE
55 EG_UPGRADE
56 EG_TEST_SPEC
57 EG_ANSWER
58 EG_COMMUNICATION
59 EG_DRAIN
60 EG_NEEDLESETTINGS
61 EG_HARDCLEANING
62 EG_MAININIT
63 EG_WAITFORCONTROLEVENT
64 EG_S_MSGMLR_TIMEOUT
65 EG_NM_MSGMLR_TIMEOUT
66 EG_M_MSGMLR_TIMEOUT
67 EG_PRESSURE
68 EG_THREADS
69 EG_WAITFOREVENT
70 EG_SENDEVENT
71 EG_DELETE_FILE
72 EG_SETTINGS
 86

73 EG_REAGENTS
74 EG_SAMPLER_CONSTRUCTOR
75 EG_SAMPLER_INIT
76 EG_SAMPLER_STOP
77 EG_SAMPLER_GETSTATE
78 EG_SAMPLER_SETSTATE
79 EG_SAMPLER_GETPOSITION
80 EG_SAMPLER_SETPOSITION
81 EG_SAMPLER_GETCONTAINERTYPE
82 EG_SAMPLER_CANCEL_WAITSTATE
83 EG_SAMPLER_WAITSTATE
84 EG_SAMPLER_ONLINE
85 EG_SAMPLER_SAMPLERDY
86 EG_SAMPLER_ERROR
87 EG_SAMPLER_FATALERROR
88 EG_SAMPLER_SENDPOS
89 EG_SAMPLER_BARCODE
90 EG_SAMPLER_INITDONE
91 EG_SAMPLER_STOPPED
92 EG_SAMPLER_TRAYDONE
93 EG_SAMPLER_PONG
94 EG_SAMPLER_SAMPLEMIX
95 EG_SAMPLER_BAROK
96 EG_SAMPLER_SENDTRAYINFO
97 EG_SAMPLER_SENDRACKINFO
98 EG_SAMPLER_UNKNOWNCMD
99 EG_SAMPLER_CMD
100 EG_SAMPLER_TRAY_DONE
101 EG_SAMPLER_STARTPOS
102 EG_AUTOSAMPLER_MEASURE
103 EG_FILL
104 EG_TEST_PIERCE
105 EG_MOVE_DILUTOR_1
106 EG_MOVE_DILUTOR_2
107 EG_MOVE_DILUTOR_3
108 EG_MOVE_DILUTOR_4
109 EG_BOB
110 EG_HORIZONTAL
111 EG_VERTICAL
112 EG_DILUFULL
113 EG_GET_BUBBLE
 87

114 EG_BUBBLING
115 EG_MICRO
116 EG_MEAPUFF
117 EG_MEAPUFFBIG
118 EG_MEAPUFFSMALL
119 EG_PREDIL
120 EG_DIL_L
121 EG_SAMPLE_MOVE
122 EG_NEEDLE_WASHING
123 EG_WBC_STOP
124 EG_MIX_SAMPLE
125 EG_CHAMBER_MIX
126 EG_CHAMBER_RBC
127 EG_CHAMBER_WBC
128 EG_HGB_MEASURE
129 EG_BASO_MEASURE
130 EG_BASO_SAMPLE
131 EG_RBC_MEASURE
132 EG_WASHING_DIFF
133 EG_PREDRAIN
134 EG_SENDTHEEND
135 EG_WBC_MEASURE
136 EG_OPT_SAMP_CL
137 EG_SET_POSITION
138 EG_BURNRBC
139 EG_BURNWBC
140 EG_TIMEOUT
141 EG_TOTTI
142 EG_AAMVERT
143 EG_AAMHORI
144 EG_AUTO_ALIGNEMENT
145 EG_STOP_PUFFER
146 EG_LYSE_PUFFER
147 EG_DILUENT_PUFFER
148 EG_SHEATH_PUFFER
149 EG_PRIME_DILU
150 EG_PRIME_SHEATH
151 EG_PRIME_LYSE
152 EG_PRIME_STOPPER
153 EG_AS_ERROR
154 EG_RINSE
 88

155 EG_PNEU_INIT_2
156 EG_DELAY
157 EG_WAKEUP
158 EG_STANDBY
159 EG_CHECKPRIME
160 EG_SELFTEST
161 EG_LASERHEAT
162 EG_LASERHEAT_INFO
163 EG_MACHINEINFO
164 EG_FILELIST
165 EG_SV_CLEAN
166 EG_AUTOSAMPLER
167 EG_EXTRA1
168 EG_EXTRA2
169 EG_EXTRA3
170 EG_UDILUTOR
171 EG_CHAMBERS
172 EG_CELL_CLOGGING
173 EG_FILL_LASER
174 EG_DEBUG
175 EG_REPAIR
176 EG_CANCEL_ANSWER
177 EG_CANCEL_AT_END
178 EG_PIC_ERROR
179 EG_SET_OFFSET
180 EG_AS_INFO
181 EG_REAGENT_LOCK
182 EG_RV_RD_ERROR
183 EG_RV_WR_FAULT_ERROR
184 EG_RV_WR_PROTECT_ERROR
185 EG_RV_ARG_ERROR
186 EG_RV_UNEXPECTED_ERROR
187 EG_RV_KEY_ERROR
188 EG_RV_CRC_ERROR
189 EG_RV_PERMISSION_ERROR
190 EG_RV_DEVICE_MISSING_ERROR
191 EG_RV_NOT_ENOUGH_MEASUREMENTS
192 EG_SERIALS
193 EG_OFFLINERINSING
194 EG_DC
195 EG_CLEANCELL
 89

196 EG_CLEANDILU
197 EG_QCWIZARD
198 EG_QCTEST
199 EG_CHECK_ALTITUDE
200 EG_RELEASE_AIR
201 EG_AS_COVER
202 EG_BLOODSENSOR
203 EG_BLOODSENSOR_CALIB
204 EG_OVERNIGHT_CLEAN
205 EG_PRESSURE_OFFSET
206 EG_CANCEL_REPAIR
207 EG_DRAIN_TCU
208 EG_FILL_TCU
209 EG_DRAIN_FLOW_CELL
210 EG_FILL_FLOW_CELL
211 EG_XY
212 EG_EMPTYRCHAMBER
213 EG_EMPTYWCHAMBER
 90

7.3 Service Menu

There is a Service menu for servicing and operation checking purposes; however it is hidden from the
end user. To access the service menu:

• Go to the Main Menu

• Advanced and click on Service button

• Click Ok and enter the password 6484-Ok

Once you typed in the correct service code, you will enter into the service menu. The system is designed
to provide you continuous access to service functions: you will have to enter the service code once for a
specific service session.

The button in the lower right corner says “Password On”. Click this and then back button when you EXIT
from Service menu. This to prevent users accessing the service menu after service.

Reboot of instrument will do the similar.

The following screen displays available operations and functions. Refer to the menu screen above to
locate the description of the feature.
 91

7.3.1 Service functions, 6 display screens

 92

7.3.1.1 Test functions

This item allows running specific test procedures. You have to enter the “ID” of the required service and
RUN Test button. The list of available functions and their expected result is listed below.

ID Name Expected result

2 Go to Standby The system will go into standby independently of standby timer
status
3 Drain tubing system It is equivalent to tapping the “Drain all” function under Main
Menu / Maintenance / Drain all
4 Wakeup The system performs wakeup function.
15 Skip clean The system will assume Cleaning has been performed
61 Skip (next) Pneuinit The system will omit pneuinit
62 Skip (next) Rinse The system will omit Rinse (tube washing process)
63 Make PneuInit Mandatory The system will be forced to do a pneuinit (as if it was just
powered on)
64 Make Pneuinit and Prime All motors and the tube system is set to uninitialized state.
Mandatory (equivalent to power off)
65 Make Fill Mandatory Equivalent to first startup – the system will assume that all
pneumatical systems are empty.
66 Skip Pneuinit, Clean and Combination of various functions
Wakeup
67 Skip Pneuinit, Wakeup Combination of various functions
68 Skip Pneuinit, Rinse and Combination of various functions
Wakeup

7.3.1.2 File management

Allows accessing files located in the DimmBoard’s SD card, normally not used. Only after request from
R&D.

7.3.1.3 Raw data saving mode

Allows selection of RAW (unprocessed) data file save mode. Raw data files can be important for Boule
R&D team to analyze and troubleshoot. Turn on Raw data saving mode to make the system save
measurement data during further measurements. Usually this mode is never used unless Boule ask
distributor.
 93

7.3.1.4 Low level reboot (DimmBoard)

This command allows restarting the Low Level software which controls the pneumatic system. This might
be necessary when the communication is lost between the High and the Low level systems. Typically:
when the Start button remains RED without pneumatically action and the system does not respond to
user commands. This function forces the DimmBoard controlled system into a known basic state.

7.3.1.5 PneuInit – Initialize

When Initialize starts, the system moves all mechanical components to their "standby" position. This
function allows starting up pneumatics after mechanical alignments or a system startup. The system will
perform an Init process after Wash head and Needle alignment or when Service testing menu was used.

7.3.1.6 Set needle and Washing head

This two functions are necessary when the sampling needle or wash head have been replaced or needs
to be adjusted, see section 6.1.3 and 6.1.4 for correct mechanical adjustment.

7.3.1.7 Blood detector adjustment (Needle tube full length/sample position

This functions is used for Blood detector adjustment, see section 6.5.

7.3.1.8 Windows control status

If Windows control status button is activated (blue marked) then an external keyboard can connected to
rear side of instrument to reach Task manager, control panel etc. from Windows operating system. This
setting controls whether the CTRL-ALT-DEL combination can be used to access system functions or not.
This setting is suggested to be turned OFF after installation of the analyzer at the end user’s site to
prevent unauthorized access to system files. This setting requires a system reboot.

7.3.1.9 Network management

This is the input area to define network related parameters in connection with LIS communication. The
parameters required for setting up the link should be acquired from the system operator of the network
you want to connect the analyzer to.

7.3.1.10 Export RAW files

Allows saving collected RAW data files to a removable storage media, typically USB Flash memory.

7.3.1.11 TCU fill/drain

Allows to fill the TCU tubing system with reagents or remove all liquid from the tubing. Recommended to
use draining before and fill after TCU removing.
 94

7.3.1.12 Flow cell fill/drain

Fills up or completely removes all liquid from the optical head. Use drain before removing laser head.

7.3.1.13 Blood sensor status

Turns on and off the blood sensor

7.3.1.14 Optical channels offset adjustment

See section 6.3, not used in service field normally

7.3.1.15 Reading values

See section 6.3, not used in service field normally

7.3.1.16 WBC preheater

See section 6.3, not used in service field normally

7.3.1.17 Impedance amplifier offset adjustment

Auto offset should be enabled as default, see section 6.3

7.3.1.18 Pressure offset adjustment

Possibility to automatically adjust offset for pressure sensor board, see section 6.6

7.3.1.19 Serial number set up

Possibility to enter serial number manually in case a Windows recovery has been performed, see section
6.7

7.3.1.20 History of Gravity X, Gravity Y factors

Log for Gravity x and Gravity Y scatter calibrations

 95

7.3.2 Service testing

Service Testing menu provides tools for checking hardware.

• Valves - In the menu you can see buttons (each represents a valve). The state of buttons is
similar to the state of valves.

• Motors - In the menu you can see buttons (each represents a command to motor). By pressing a
button you can send the motor to the requested end-position.

• Pumps - In the menu you can see buttons (each represents a pump).By pressing the buttons you
can turn on and off the pumps.

• Pressures - Also allows to monitor pressures in real time on all three pressure sensors.
 96

7.3.3 Service calibration

The analyzer provides a menu for Service calibration purposes. This screen displays the actual calibration
factors, service level calibration factors and the user level calibration factors. Service and User level
factors are multiplied and the system is using the result as the actual calibration factor for each
measured value.

Example for RBC:

RBCDisp. = FactRBC User * FactRBC Serv * RBCMeasured

Service calibration screen displays both factors for the values measured in the chambers and in the
optical head.

7.3.3.1 Enable scatter calibration

This checkbox has to be enabled to make a scatter calibration. Manually enter suggested Target
X and Y values from Con/Cal insert sheet and press Set button. Go to Calibration menu and
perform 3 measurements and press accept after each measurement. After measurements are
done, the system will display the new scatter values. Press accept to automatically save the new
suggested Gravity X and Gravity Y values.

7.3.3.2 Backup Calibration

It is possible to save the calibration factors to a pen drive. This option is recommended before
reinstalling the operation system or the High Level software.

7.3.3.3 Restore Calibration

It is possible to restore the saved calibration values from a pen drive by pushing Restore button.
 97

7.3.3.4 Accept User factors

Pushing this button will reset the User factor values to 1.00. Reset values will be multiplied with
Service factors, creating new calibration factors in Service calibration menu

7.3.3.5 Accept button

In case Gravity x and Gravity y are manually changed then Accept button must be used clicked to
save the values in software

7.3.3.6 Back

Returns to Service menu screen.

7.3.4 Stress test

In Stress test, the instrument performs measuring cycles without sample (blank measurements)
continuously. This can be used for burn-in tests, or to check pneumatic system after changing any main
fluidic parts.

You can have information about stability, cleanliness, HGB operation, and counting time stability.
 98

7.3.5 Optical alignment

This function allows access to adjusting the optical head’s laser alignment.

Note... This procedure is a factory settings and not a service action. Optical alignment on the service field
will make the instrument out of order. After replacement of Laser module follow the instructions in
chapter 6.9. Display picture 2/2 could be needed to use as below.

• Laser settings can be typed in manually with an external keyboard. After values are entered,
press “Save values” button to confirm the settings.

• By pressing Read DC, it is possible to check the status of the optical head. DC level is also
indicated in Self-test menu. If DC level is in range it means that the flow cell and the laser diode
is proper. If the DC is high or not steady, flow cell cleaning needs to be done.

Always check/type in the new Laser settings if optical head was replaced.

7.3.6 Autoloader
This function allows accessing and testing various functions of the Autoloader.
 99

7.3.6.1 Go to Pos

Pulls the selected rack position -defined by the RackPos and SamplePos-in front of the mixer.

7.3.6.2 Reset

Sets the Autoloader to default position (home position)

7.3.6.3 Repeat last command

Repeats the previous action.

7.3.6.4 Go To Mixer

Pulls the selected rack position -defined by the RackPos and SamplePos-into the mixer.

7.3.6.5 Load to sampling position

Pulls the selected rack position -defined by the RackPos and SamplePos-to the needle

7.3.6.6 Set up Barcode Reader

Not implemented

7.3.7 Software updates

The software of the Instrument can be upgraded using a commercially available USB flash memory
device. Quintus software can be upgraded with software releases from Boule. It is mandatory to install
both High level (Windows XP) and Low level (DimmBoard) software from the same release package to
keep maximum performance and compatibility. Software can be downloaded from Quintus support web
page http://www.quintus5part.com/ after login with password. After download extract the zip folder
and save High level (msi) file and Low level (upgrade.ils) file to a pen drive. Connect the pen drive to back
side of Quintus.
 100

7.3.7.1 Refresh data

Shows the serial number and present software and firmware versions installed on the analyzer.

7.3.7.2 High Level software

Brings up the screen where the High Level software file (msi file) can be selected (browsed). Make sure
that the file is prepared on a pen drive attached to the backside of instrument. Double click E:\ folder,
blue mark Quintus msi file and press Ok, follow installation instructions on display. See section 7.5 for
more detailed information

7.3.7.3 Low level software

Brings up the screen where the Low Level software file (lls file) can be selected (browsed). Make sure
that the file is prepared on a pen drive attached to the backside instrument. Double click E:\ folder and
blue mark Upgrade.ils file and press Ok. Upgrade status in the left lower corner will start to move from 0
to 100%, just wait until upgrade is finished. Do not power off or click any buttons during software
upgrade. Message will appear on screen when upgrade is finished. See section 7.5 for more detailed
information

7.3.7.4 New Boot SW

This button only needs to be used when the system's software has to be updated from 1.3.xxx to 1.4.xxx.
Follow special software upgrade procedure in Change Notification SW 1.4.1126 which can be
downloaded from http://www.quintus5part.com/.

7.3.7.5 New LSDACQ firmware

Brings up the screen where the LSDACQ firmware file can be selected (browsed). Not implemented for
the moment.

7.3.7.6 New Optical Head SW

The optical head's (laser) firmware can be updated here. Not implemented for the moment.

7.3.7.7 New TCU software

The TCU board also contains software which can be updated here. Not implemented for the moment.

7.3.7.8 New autoloader SW

The Autoloader has software similar to the Low Level software on the DimmBoard. This software can be
controlled by the High Level software and updated from this menu. See Change Notification Quintus
autoloader SW from http://www.quintus5part.com/ after login.
 101

7.3.8 QC Wizard
It's possible to run several automatic tests on the analyzer. QC Wizard is used by production to ensure
that all mechanical, pneumatic and electrical settings are correct. This function is not and service action
on the field. We recommend to test necessary functions from Service testing menu.

7.3.9 Printer installation

Quintus supports all Windows XP compatible printers. To install a printer or a printer driver, you need an
external DVD drive with the original printer driver CD, or a USB flash drive with the printer driver.
Recommendation would be to install the printer drivers from Windows by using external key board to
reach Task manager-Control panel – Printer &Faxes.

1. Prepare the printer driver on a DVD/CD/USB stick. (Either copy it from the install CD, or
download it from the printer manufacturer’s web site)
2. Connect a USB external keyboard.
3. Connect the DVD player/USB stick with the printer driver to an available USB slot on the
analyzer.
4. Make sure that Windows control function is enabled in Service menu-Service functions 2/6.
5. Press CTRL-ALT-DEL on external keyboard to access „Task manager”
6. Select Task Manager-File-New Task run-Control-Ok
7. A file dialog box appears. Browse the file system for the CD/USB stick and locate the install
package for the printer. Run the application (printer driver). Follow instructions on the screen.
8. Upon completion the printer becomes available as an installed printer for Quintus
9. Exit task manager (close)

There is also an option to install printer drivers from Service menu-Printer installation. Usually this
procedure is a little bit more complicated as the correct “inf” drivers files needs to be saved to an USB
pen drive. Normally, users are not allowed to connect and install printers, since all peripherals must be
installed, connected by the representative of the service provider of the analyzer. The add printer button
initiates the Add printer Wizard from Windows. Follow instructions on the screen to install the printer.
 102

7.3.10 Factory Settings

Accessible to the Manufacturer only.

7.3.11 Service mode OFF

Clicking on this button will turn service mode off, and puts you back to the User Menu. To re-enter
Service menu, you need to type in the service code again.
 103

7.4 Software systems

Quintus has a complex software system. This system can be divided into two parts, low level system
and high level system. The low level system (DimmBoard SW) is responsible for the moving parts of
the analyzer and the high level system is responsible for the user interactions. The high level system
is running on a built-in industrial PC with an operating system (Microsoft Windows XP Embedded).

7.5 General SW installation guide

• Download the install package from http://www.quintus5part.com/ after login.
SW package contains a zip folder with below files. Extract the zip folder and save below files to a
pen drive.

Quintus.msi (High level SW)

Upgrade.lls (Low level SW)

• Power on the Analyzer – do not perform pneumatic operations (like measurement).

• Connect the USB memory stick to the Analyzer. Wait a few seconds until the LED in the memory
stick starts flashing.
• Go to Service Menu (code: 6484)
• Go to Software updates. Press “Refresh data” to see SW versions of individual components.
• Write down SW versions to a paper (or tap Print icon to print the image).
• Upgrade software in the following order:

Low level SW – tap the “New Low Level SW”. Locate the lls file on the “E:” drive. (By default, the
USB stick should be the E: drive.
 104

• Select the file by tapping the checkbox next to the file, then clicking OK. The process will start –
you can see the progress in Upgrade status field, goes from 0 to 100%
• High Level SW- Click on “New High Level SW” – the analyzer will ask you to locate the
Quintus.msi file on the USB stick. Select the file by tapping the checkbox next to the file, then
clicking OK. The Windows installation process will start. Click “next, next…install”.
• Wait for the process to end.
• Click on “Finish” (the new SW will start).

Note: Software restart (especially if there are more than 1000 samples present in the database) might
take several minutes. During this process, the screen will be blank (black – with the mouse pointer
displayed). Do not interrupt the process by turning the analyzer off.
 105

7.5.1 Install operating system Windows 2.0 using pen drive

Tools needed:

- Pen drive (at least 4 GB)

- Pen drive with high level software
- Windows iso image file 2.0 (winpe_x86_v2.0)
- Rufus v1.2.0(or higher) application
- Additional files directory
- External usb keyboard and mouse

Step 1.

To install windows from pen drive, a bootable pen drive has to be created first.

Copy the additional files directory and the software rufus_v1.2.0. to your hard disk.

Make sure that the windows 2.0 iso file Windows recovery (winpe_x86_v2.0) is also downloaded to
the PC’s hard disk.

Step 2.

Insert the pen drive (4 GB or higher) into the PC

Step 3.

Run the rufus exe.

„Rufus” will automatically find the external device

attached to the PC.

Select NTFS for File system.

Cluster size is default.

Make sure that the „Quick format”, the „Create a

bootable disk using ISO image” and the „Create
extended label and icon files” checkboxes are
checked/marked. Click on the disk button to select
the windows ISO file. Browse and find
winpe_x86_v2.0.iso file. You can also set the
„New volume label” to a name of your choice.

If setting is ready, press Start button.

 106

Step 4.

Let „Rufus” copy the ISO to the pen drive.

It will take approximately 80-120 minutes,

depending on the hardware.

Do not remove the pen drive during the copy!

Step 5.

When copying if finished, you have to

select the files in the Additional files
directory and copy it to the root of the
pen drive.

The pen drive is now a bootable windows

installer. The Pen drive should look like in
the image on the left.
 107

Step 6.
Now we have to set the hematology analyzer to recognize to Pen drive.

Insert the pen drive to the hematology analyzer, also attach the USB keyboard and turn the analyzer
on. While the booting process is going, press „del” button to enter to BIOS.

In Advanced BIOS Features, set the first boot device to Hard disk.

On the same screen you have to enter to Hard Disk Boot Priority. Select the Pen drive to be first, so
the system will use the Pen drive as an external Hard Disk (use + and – buttons to change the order
of HDD).

If setting is ready, press F10 and save to exit from BIOS and restart.

Step 7.
The system now restarts and a message will
appear on the screen „Press any key to boot
from USB”. Press any key, than wait until
windows command console window
appears. If you miss pressing any key, the
system will stop with an error. In this case,
restart the system with CTRL+ALT+DEL. As
the windows console window appears and
it’s ready to receive the commands, type in
„e:”.
108
Warning: In case of a new HDD, it can happen
that the „e” drive is not available. In this case,
remove the bootable pen drive and type in
the below commands into the console to
create proper partition on the HDD.
DISKPART
SELECT DISK 0
CLEAN
CREATE PARTITION PRIMARY SIZE=100000
FORMAT FS=NTFS QUICK
ACTIVE
ASSIGN LETTER = C
CREATE PARTITION PRIMARY
FORMAT FS=NTFS QUICK
ASSIGN LETTER = D
EXIT
EXIT
Replace the pen drive then wait until console
window returns.
If „e” drive exists type in „installpen” to start
the windows install. The system will offer to
options, first one is to recover the windows
the second one is a full format. The recover
format will keep the database, the full format
will erase all data from the HDD (which is not
a problem if the HDD is new). Choose number
1 or 2 then press enter to start the process.
The windows install/recovery would take
approximately 30 minutes. If the install is
done, remove the pen drive and type „exit” to
restart the system. If you didn’t remove the
pen drive, don’t press any key when it’s
offered, let the system start windows from
HDD. If the touch screen is not calibrated, you
have to use a mouse to find touch screen
calibration on the desktop. Start touchcalib
and calibrate the screen, by pushing the 4
corners (crosses) on the touchscreen. If touch
is calibrated, insert the second pen drive with
the high level software installer, start total
commander and run the high level software’s
msi file.
 109

Step 8.

After install is done, the high level software has to be set properly.

Please adjust or set:

- Calibration factors (load or restore calibration factors if it’s saved before)

- Laser setting (power, low and high angle gains have to be set again for proper scatter values)

- Offsets on amplifiers (optical measurement and impedance measurement offsets have to be set
(zeroed) in adjustments menu)

- Pressure sensor offsetting (also have to be set to make the pressure sensor work properly)

- Set the serial number of the instrument (the serial number is also stored on the HDD, after
windows install the serial have to be set again. Use adjustments menu to enter the same serial
number as on the DIMMPC/DIMMBOARD or on the sticker on the back of the instrument).

Windows and high level software install is done.

 110

8 Installation
8.1 Check the Delivery
When you receive the Quintus analyzer delivery, please ensure that the packaging is not damaged. Check
the bill of lading accompanying the package against your order documents and ensure that the shipment
is complete and that all documentation is in order. If you have ordered an optional Autoloader, it will
arrive in its own package. Please contact your sales representative, service representative, or shipper if
there are any discrepancies in the shipping documentation or any visible damage to any of the
packaging.

Please follow all applicable laws or regulations regarding the handling or opening of the Quintus analyzer
packaging.

8.2 Prepare For Initial Installation

Before you start the installation please ensure the following:

• Locate a suitable place for the Quintus instrument

• Identify any additional laboratory personnel that will observe the installation process
• Have the contact information for your Boule representative or service engineer
• Arrange for additional support (IT specialist, electrician, etc.) if necessary during the installation
• Understand and follow the analyzer General Precautions listed in section 2.2.

8.2.1 Select a Suitable Location

Select a location for the Quintusanalyzer that meets your laboratory requirements for safety, ergonomics
and efficient workflow. The location should also meet the environmental, electrical, and safety
requirements of the Quintus listed in section 2.

It is important to install the instrument in a suitable location. A poor location can adversely
affect its performance. Consider the space and weight requirements listed in sections 2.6
and 2.7.

To allow reliable operation and to provide a safe working environment, make sure that the
table supporting the unit is stable enough to carry the weight of the instrument and
accessories. Reagents should never be placed above the analyzer to avoid spill hazards.

8.2.2 Make Any Special Arrangements

If you decide to route the reagent tubing through the tabletop, please ensure that any necessary holes
are drilled before the installation process starts.
 111

If you plan to connect the Quintus analyzer to any external devices (keyboard, mouse, printer, host
computer, etc.), please ensure that all necessary preparations (cable-channels, cable-binders, drilling
through tables, walls etc.) are complete before the installation begins.

8.2.3 Gather Your Peripherals Devices

Collect any external keyboard, mouse, bar code reader, or printer that you will be attaching to the
Quintus analyzer. Although the Windows® XP® Embedded operating system installed on the analyzer is
capable of automatically recognizing multiple peripheral devices, please ensure you have available any
installation disks or drivers provided by the device vendor. See section 3.4.7. To learn peripheral
connections on the hardware block.

8.3 Performing the Installation

Now that a location has been selected and all preparations are complete, you are ready to begin the
installation. Initial installation should only be done by Boule certified service personnel. You can find the
installation checklist in section 8.4.

8.3.1 Move the Quintus to the Selected Location

Always have two persons present and use safe lifting procedures when lifting the analyzer. Safely move
the analyzer, the accessory box, and the optional Autoloader (if ordered) and the accessories to the
selected location. Keep the analyzer in an upright position and gently set it down in its new location.

8.3.2 Visual Inspection

Visually inspect the Quintus before proceeding with the installation and verify that:
• The front panel is be free of cracks or scratches
• The display screen is free of cracks or scratches
• The top, sides, and back panels are free of dents or scratches

Open the front panel of the unit and visually verify that:
• The syringes are not cracked
• The shear valve has the protective card installed
• There is no fluid inside the tubing
• There is no salt buildup inside the tubing

Remove the side covers of the unit and verify that:

• The tubes on the valves are in position and not popped off from (note that valve # 4 has a free
connection)
• Cables are not loose and they are well connected
• The reagent puffers are not cracked and there is no salt buildup on their sides and bottom
• Chambers are not cracked

Visually inspect the Autoloader and verify that:

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• The outside housing of the Autoloader is free of dents or scratches

• The transparent cover opens and closes smoothly
• The sample tray and the sample racks have no visible damage

8.3.3 Remove the Protective Card from the Shear Valve

The shear valve comes equipped with a protective plastic card between the ceramic disks of the shear
valve to prevent damage and adhesion during transportation.

To remove the protective card, perform the following steps:

• Open the front cover of the analyzer

• Locate the white protective plastic card in the shear valve as shown in photo below
• Gently pull out the card
• Check and tighten the locking screw of the shear valve if necessary

2. Figure: Shear Valve Protective Card

8.3.4 Connect the Optional Autoloader

To connect the optional Autoloader to the Quintus analyzer, perform the following steps:

• Unscrew the five screws and remove the small cover plate on the right side of the Quintus.
• Check that the connection surface is clean and there are no cables or other obstructions blocking
the opening.
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• Gently push the Autoloader into the Quintus until the clamps are locked.
• Place the white racks with the tray into the Autoloader.
• Close the Autoloader cover.
• Pull then push back the Sampler's tray to see that it can move front and back.

8.3.5 Connect the Reagents

Place the reagent containers as shown in section 2.6.

Open the protective package containing the reagent and waste tubes. When connecting or changing
reagent containers, please ensure that the reagent caps and tubes are protected and do not touch the
floor or other surfaces. This can lead to contamination of the reagents and the analyzer.

To connect the reagents to the Quintus analyzer, perform the following steps:

• Push the color-coded reagent and waste tubes all the way on to the matching color-coded
reagent connectors on the back panel of the analyzer.
o Green: Quintus Diluent
o Orange: Quintus Stopper(Lyse-Diff)
o Yellow: Quintus Lyse
o Red: waste container
• Route the reagent cap and tube to the matching reagent container, ensuring that the reagent
tubes are not bent, broken, twisted or blocked.

• Place the reagent or waste tube in the matching reagent or waste container and screw the cap
on to the container.
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Only genuine Boule reagents should be used with the Quintus analyzer

The analyzer operates with chemically and biologically active reagents. Physical
contact with these reagents should be avoided. Please read reagent descriptions
carefully for possible emergency actions.

8.3.6 Connect the Power Cord

Before connecting the power cord, make sure that all of the Quintus back panel switches and the
optional Autoloader switches are turned off:

• Turn off the main power switch (small switch) on the rear panel of the analyzer near the power
connection to the ‘down’ position labeled ‘0’.
• If the optional Autoloader is installed, turn the power switch on the right side of the Autoloader
to the ‘off’ position labeled ‘0’.
Connect one end of the power cord to the power connection of the analyzer, and the other end of the
power cord to an appropriate wall outlet.

The Quintus analyzer should only be operated from a wall outlet capable of meeting
the electrical requirements listed in section 2.4.

8.3.7 Verify the Quintus Computer Operation

We are now going to start up, then shut down the analyzer to ensure that the computer system and
software start and shut down correctly.

To power and shut down up the analyzer, perform the following steps:

• Turn on the main power switch on the rear panel of the analyzer near the power connection to
the ‘up’ position labeled ‘1’.
• Flip the power -on switch near the top of the rear panel of the analyzer to the ‘up’ position.
• If the optional Autoloader is installed, do not turn on its power switch at this time.
• Wait until Quintus' boots up and the software loads. This will take a few minutes.
• Ensure that the software displays the main menu and that no warning or error messages are
displayed. Warnings are displayed on the bottom of the LCD as a yellow exclamation mark. Shut
down the analyzer. DO NOT simply turn off the power switches to shut down the analyzer. The
analyzer requires a specific shutdown sequence. See chapter User Manual for information about
the shutdown procedure.

8.3.8 Connect Peripherals

Ensure that the Quintus analyzer is completely powered down before connecting the peripherals.

To connect the peripherals, perform the following steps:

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• Plug in any external keyboard, mouse, and bar code reader into the appropriate port on the back
panel of the analyzer.
• If a peripheral device requires its own power supply, plug it in now in a wall socket belonging to
the same socket group for proper grounding. Consult an electrician if you have any questions
about wall socket grounding.
• Turn on the main power switch on the rear panel of the analyzer near the power connection to
the ‘up’ position labeled ‘1’.
• Flip the power-on witch near the top of the rear panel of the analyzer to the ‘up’ position.
• If the optional Autoloader is installed, do not turn on its power switch at this time.
• Allow the computer inside the analyzer a few minutes to start and initialize the Quintus
operating software.
• Perform the software installation of the peripherals devices. The Windows® XP® Embedded
operating system recognizes most of the peripherals without additional installation steps.
• Peripheral devices that require additional installation steps must be installed by a Boule certified
service engineer.

8.3.9 How to install a printer

Before making the printer install, prepare the printer’s driver files to an USB pen drive. Make sure that
the driver files are for the printer you want to install. If the printer has an USB connection, there is a
simple way to do the installing:

• connect the USB drive containing the printer drivers to the analyzer
• make sure that an external keyboard is also connected to the analyzer
• connect the printer to the analyzer via USB
• If windows supports the printer, after a few seconds, the printer install window should pop up.
Windows recognizes the newly attached hardware and it starts the installing process
automatically by popping up the install window. If you press the touch while the printer install
screen is loading, the window will hide behind the Quintus software. Use ALT+TAB to switch
between the two screens
• in the popped up printer install screen, browse the driver files from the pen drive
• add all the necessary printer driver files if needed
• If the files are added properly and install is finished then power off and on the Quintus. Printer
model should appear in Advanced-Setup menu-Printer settings-Printer.
• Select installed printer and press save

If there is a problem during installing procedure or the printer install window is not popping up, there is a
way to install printers from service, printer install menu.

See section 7.3.9 for more detailed information about printer installation.
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8.3.10 Initializing the Optional Autoloader

If the optional Autoloader is not installed, skip this section. To initialize the Autoloader, perform the
following steps:

• Turn the power switch on the right side of the Autoloader to the ‘on’ position labeled ‘1’.
• Make sure that the cover of the Autoloader is closed and that the ‘Cover’ led changes to green;
• Click the Autoloader button on top followed by Info to bring up the ‘Autoloader info’ panel.
• Click the Reset button to initialize the Autoloader.
• The Autoloader performs a mechanical initialization. When this completes, ensure the HOME
message appears.
• Click the Ok button to close the ‘Autoloader info’ panel.
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8.3.11 Using the Setup menu

The setup menu allows modification of various system settings. Click the Setup icon from Advanced to
bring up the Setup menu.

The Setup menu contains various buttons that allow the user to change system settings. Each screen
contains a Back button and a Save button. The Back button returns to the Setup menu. The Save button
save any changes made in the screen. If the Back button is clicked without clicking the Save button first,
all changes made in the screen will be discarded. See description in the User Manual.

8.3.12 Set Up a Laboratory Information System (LIS)

Quintus analyzer supports uploading of measurement data to an LIS or host computer. If your laboratory
has an LIS system, the analyzer can be connected to it using a serial or an Ethernet connection. An LIS
system is not required to operate with the analyzer.

Your LIS system must be configured to accept measurement results from the analyzer. Quintus uses the
3.1 protocol to communicate over a serial connection, and the HL7 (version 2.5 or higher) to
communicate over an Ethernet connection. See your LIS vendor to determine if your LIS system is
compatible with the analyzer.

LIS configuration requires a moderate level of familiarity with computer settings and some
understanding of computer data communications. LIS setup is normally an IT job and not a Service job.

Use the ‘Send settings’ button in the Setup menu to set up LIS connection options.
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8.3.13 Set Up a Serial LIS Connection

To connect the analyzer to an LIS system using a serial LIS connection, perform the following steps:

• Ensure that your LIS system is compatible with the 3.1 protocol using a serial connection.
• Connect a serial cable (null modem or modem eliminator) between the COM 1 port on the back
panel of the analyzer and the host system.
• Select the appropriate ‘Sending port baud rate’ from setup menu.
o Select 9600 baud if your serial cable is longer than 5m (~15’).
o Select either 9600 or 115200 baud if your serial cable is shorter than 5m (~15’).
• Check the ‘Automatic LIS’ check box if you want every result to be transmitted automatically to
the LIS. Uncheck if you want to manually select and transmit database records to the LIS.
• Click the Save button to save your changes.
• Click the Back button to exit the Set up menu.
• Configure your LIS system to accept measurement results from the analyzer using these settings.
A copy of the Communication protocol’ description is available from our Quintus support web page

8.3.14 Set Up an Ethernet LIS Connection

Connecting the analyzer using an Ethernet connection requires connecting the analyzer to a local area
network. Consult your IT administrator about connecting the analyzer to the local area network of your
laboratory. The analyzer is configured at the factory to “Obtain an IP address automatically.” If this
setting is not suitable for your local area network and must be changed. To connect the analyzer to an
LIS system using an Ethernet LIS connection, perform the following steps:

• Ensure that your LIS system is compatible with the HL7 version 2.5 protocol or higher using an
Ethernet connection, and has been configured to accept Quintus compatible HL7 messages.
• Check the ‘Automatic LIS’ check box if you want every result to be transmitted automatically to
the LIS. Uncheck if you want to manually select and transmit database records to the LIS.
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• Check the LIS check box.

• Enter the IP address of the LIS host computer.
• Enter the Port of the host computer.
• Click the Save button to save your changes.
• Click the Back button to exit the External devices screen.
• Configure your LIS system to accept measurement results from the analyzer using these settings.

8.3.15 Running Blank Samples and Blood Samples for the First Time
Quintus analyzer requires a blank measurement to be run every day before the analyzer will allow you to
run blood or control samples. This measurement is also called Background which indicates that the
system is clean and ready to measure blood samples.

The transportation and packaging process sometimes causes minor particles to be present in the
pneumatic components of the analyzer. For this reason, five to ten initial blank measurements should to
be run during installation to flush the system.

Click the New sample icon on the top left side of the screen and run a blank measurement. The Start
button will change color to red. The fill procedure and blank measurement take several minutes to
complete. The start button will change color to green and the blank result screen will be displayed.

After the procedure completes, a blank result screen will be displayed. Click the ‘Start Again’ to run an
additional blank measurement or press Accept in case PLT values are below 15. In case PLT result is
above 15 then repeat this procedure several more times until the blank results are no longer flagged, or
until the blank results are low enough to satisfy laboratory quality standards. If the Blank measurement
is satisfactory, press Accept to make other measurement modes enable.

Change the mode selector to Control/QC and run a control measurement to see that the sample results
are correct. It's important to use a fresh and not expired control sample with known target values and
ranges. See chapter 7 in User Manual for additional information about QC on the Quintus analyzer.
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8.4 Checklist for installing Quintus hematology analyzer

1. Open the box, carefully take out and place the analyzer on a flat surface. The table or desk
should be able to bear at least 50 kg.
2. If the analyzer was stored in a cooler place than room temperature, allow 2 hours for
acclimatization, otherwise water condensation may happen.
3. Check the analyzer visually. Make sure that there is no visible damage. Open the front cover and
remove the side covers to check the electronics and the tubing. Replace the covers when done.
4. Remove the plastic card from the Shear Valve and check tightness of the locking screw.
5. If you have an Autoloader unit, remove the plate which covers the AL docking connector (from
the right side cover) and connect the Autoloader to the unit.
6. Place reagents preferably on lower level than the analyzer (max. 1 m difference). Never place
reagents to higher level than the unit itself!
7. Assemble and connect reagent and waste tubes to the corresponding containers and connectors.
8. Connect the power cord.
9. Turn on the analyzer, turn on and initialize the Autoloader.
10. Connect other peripherals if needed (keyboard, mouse and printer).
11. Check that all the software adjustments are proper. Use setting menu to adjust the software
according to the customer needs. Set the LIS connection (if the laboratory has any).
12. Check that all the hardware adjustments are proper. Use service/service testing menu to run or
test the pumps, valves and motors.
13. From ’Diagnostics/Self-test’ click on ’Start’ button and wait for the result.
14. Click on New sample. Pneumatic initialization and „fill” cycle will start. Automatic background
cycle will be performed (at first startup several blank runs might be needed till the results are
acceptable)
After two or three blank measurements, results should fall within the acceptable range, see
User’s manual.
15. Run a control bloods in QC mode
16. Check if results are within the acceptable range. Run calibration if necessary.
17. The Quintus is ready for routine measurements.
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9 Troubleshooting
This chapter will show how to do a step by step troubleshooting on the Quintus analyzer. Following the
troubleshooting process ensures that the problem can be identified without making any harm on the
system. This chapter will helps find the root cause of the problem and navigate to the page where you
can find information how to solve the problem.

9.1 Troubleshooting checklist for Quintus hematology analyzer

1. Visual inspection

2. Powering up the system

3. Checking software adjustments

4. Checking hardware adjustments

5. Run a Self-test

6. Run a Blank measurement

7. Run a Control measurement

9.1.1 Visual inspection

The first step during troubleshooting is to check the instrument visually. Some problems can be easily
defined visually before any sample run test, measurements or even to power up the system.

1. Check the front panel and the two side panels; look for scratch or any other damage.

2. Check the back panel of the analyzer, see that the reagents are connected properly, the tubes
are not misplaced.

3. See that the power cord is connected to the analyzer and plugged into the wall socket. The
power supply main switch is flipped to off position.

4. Open the front cover and remove the two side covers. See section 11.

5. Make sure that the tubing are not popped off from the valves, the chambers and reservoirs are
not cracked, there is no liquid on the bottom of the instrument and there are no salt buildups
around the pneumatic system. Check tube between blood sensor and shear valve, see that the
tube is transparent and not whites or has any other color. Replace the tube if it's not clean or
transparent enough. If tube was moved or replaced, the blood sensor and the sampling values
should be realigned. Please see section 6.4 and 6.5 to learn how to calibrate blood sensor and
sample position. Other tube color changes are not so critical, but if there is a tube in the system
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with a very huge pigmentation, it should also be replaced. Please see tubing map in section
11.16.

6. Check all cable connections. Make sure that the cables are in position on the LSDACQ, PPB
boards, HVB panel and the valve PCB boards. Replace any damaged cable.

9.1.2 Powering up the system

After the visual inspection, it's time to see that the analyzer can turn on properly. Please follow the steps
below:

1. Make sure that the power cord is well connected to the analyzer and that the socket can provide
the proper electric power. Turn the power supply's switch to on position and check that the
power indicating LED on the motherboard is on. If the LED is not on, please check the power
cord. If the cord is ok, we must assume that the power supply is not functioning.

2. Flip the power-on switch on the top back of the analyzer to turn it on. Check the five green
voltage indicator LEDs on the LSDACQ. The five LEDs show that the necessary voltages are
present. If one of the LEDs is not lit, check power supply cable or replace LSDACQ board if
needed.

3. Wait until Windows and the High Level Software of the analyzer loads. If there is a problem
during the boot process or the analyzer's software cannot load, please see section Error!
Reference source not found..

4. There is a short audio welcome signal played by the analyzer after the software has loaded. If
you can hear the sound and the software screen is present on the display, then the powering up
was successful. If the display is showing windows, but not the High Level Software, please see
section 7.5.

9.1.3 Checking the software adjustments

Setting the software is important to make proper measurements. Every Quintus software was set by
production, but in some cases (windows recovery, high level sw reinstall) this setting has to be done
again or at least has to be checked. Quintus analyzer has two software levels. The High Level Software is
responsible to communicate with the user and to give the user's commands to the Low Level Software.
The Low Level Software receives the User's commands and controls the pneumatic and mechanics
system of the analyzer. After low and high level analyzer software is loaded, check the following:

1. On the display, the High Level Software is present; the start button on the front panel is lighting
orange. If the start button is off, it means there is no communication between the two software
levels. See section 7.5 for communication error.

2. Enter to Service menu by entering the service password ‘6484’, then go into SW update screen.
Press Refresh data. After a few seconds the analyzer should show all the software and firmware
versions in the system. Make sure that the analyzer has the same version of the Low Level and
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High Level Software installed. If there is a problem occurring during Refreshing data, please see
section 7.3.7.

3. The software gives a warning mark if there is a problem noticed by the system. This is shown as
an exclamation mark in a yellow triangle on the bottom of the display. Double tap on the mark
shows the details of the problem. By pressing 'Go to' button, the software brings up the screen
where the problem can be solved. See section 7.2 for detailed warnings.

4. Go to Service Functions screen in Service menu. Check that the necessary checkboxes like blood
sensor status and windows control are enabled. If blood sensor is disabled, please ask the user
about the reason. For blood sensor settings, please see section 6.4.

5. Go to Service functions 4/6 in Service menu. Check that the Auto-offset checkboxes are enabled
in Optical measurement offset and Impedance amplifier offset fields. Press 'Read data' to see
that the offset values are close to 0. Note that if 'Read data' is pressed, the start button will turn
to red, indicating the communication line between the two software levels are busy reading the
offset values. During the reading, no other commands can be done by the analyzer. Make sure
that the 'Stop data' button is pressed to stop continuous reading of the offset and make the
communication line free again. If offset values are very high during the reading and auto-offset
cannot lower them, it shows an offset error in the LSDACQ. This board has to be changed in this
case.

Check that WBC preheater value is 375 (37,5 °C). Press 'Read data' to see the current
temperature of WBC preheater. If the value is ok, press 'Stop data'.

Press Start adjustment at Pressure sensor adjustment in Service functions 5/6. Adjustment will
take the few seconds. The start button will turn red to indicate that the system is busy. After the
adjustment is done, check that all three offset results are in range. The values shouldn't be
higher than 20 mBars. If one of the values is higher, then it could be necessary to replace the
pressure sensor board.

9.1.4 Checking the Hardware adjustments

The proper settings of the mechanical parts are important to make good measurements and to increase
the lifetime of the system. The mechanics are aligned by production but some realignment may need
when some mechanical parts are replaced or repaired. These parts can be checked from Service testing
menu.

1. Press all 40 valves on. Check that every valve can turn on and off. Make sure that every valve can
be turned on together, than press 'All off' to turn them off. If one of the valves is not responding,
try to replace it with a new one. See section 7.3.2.
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2. Press shear valve to Needle position (NP) and Chamber position (CP). Check that the shear valve
discs can turn to the correct position without any grinding noise and that there is no pneumatic
error during the test. For problems related to shear valve, see section 6.2.

3. Turn the sample rotor In and Out. Make sure that the front cover and the washing head is not in
the way. If you receive a pneumatic error, see chapter 6.1.

4. Press Horizontal Home button from Motors to move the needle back to the Autoloader station
and back to sample rotor position with End. Listen the sound of the mechanics, if there is a
grinding noise or a pneumatic error, please see section 6.1.

5. Press Vertical Home and End button from Motors to see that the needle can move down and up
properly. Check that there is not noise during the movement; the moving mechanics parts are
not hitting the not moving parts. See that the opto LEDs can indicate the needle positions
properly. See section 6.1.2 for alignments.

6. Press Home and End for all Dilutors. Check visually that the syringes can reach the top and
bottom positions without any problems. Look for micro bubbles at the pistons and for leakage at
the syringes. If there is a problem with a syringe and it needs to be changed, see section 6.1.2.
Note!! Some big air bubbles will always be present inside syringes during analyze.

7. Go to Service Functions screen 2/6 and press 'Set washing head' button to see that the position
of the washing head is proper. The system wants you to confirm that you want to make a
washing head position checking/setting, press 'Ok'. If it is in a good position press 'OK' to make a
mechanical initialization of the XY unit. Press 'OK' when it's done. See section 6.1.3 for alignment
information.

8. Checking the needle's position. There is two way to see that the needle is in a good position.

o Move the needle down manually without using the software. If the needle is in down
position, check the distance between the end of the needle and the sample rotor's plate.
The distance should be around 1mm.

o In Service functions screen 2/6, press the 'Set needle' button. The system wants you to
confirm that you want to make a needle position checking/setting, press 'Ok'. The
system moves the needle up, the needle tip is inside the washing head. If the needle is
set correctly, the end of the needle should be hanging out from the washing head. Press
'Ok' if it is aligned well.

For needle setting procedure, see section 6.1.4.

9.1.5 Run a Self-test

Self-test can be run In Diagnostics menu. This test is fast and automatic, very useful for troubleshooting.
For proper functioning of the analyzer, a Passed self-test is as important as like a clean and acceptable
Blank measurement. For self-test results see section 7.1.
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9.1.6 Run Blank measurements

The Blank and sample measurement provides valuable information about the fluidics and electronic
system, but some settings may need to receive the information in Database:

1. If Database only provides those parameters that are important to the clinicians, the Database
parameter setting must be changed. In Setup menu, go to Columns(Result). Add extra columns
to the result database by mark parameter in right column and press Add button followed by Ok.
Make sure that the following columns are added.

o PrV RBV

o PrV WBC

o Warnings

o Gravity X

o Gravity Y

o Woc 4

o Woc B

If you don't press Ok the setting were not made and the result columns will not appear in the
database.

2. Perform Blank measurements. NOTE: If it's the first measurement after startup, the system
makes an init process, a wake up process and Rinse process. If there was an improper shutdown
before, the system also asks for cleaning. These processes can increase the time of the
troubleshooting and reagent consumption. That’s why it can be bypassed if you type in the
suitable code (66-69) in Service functions on Test functions field. See test functions at section
7.3.1.1. Type in the required test function's number and press 'Run test'. If it is done, the Blank
measurements can run without any other requirements.

3. If a blank measurement is ready, please check that the result is not flagged with warnings. Check
probe voltages. RBC probe voltage (PrV RBC) should be 10-13 Volts, WBC probe voltage (PrV
WBC) should be 20-27 Volts. If there are problems with probe voltages, replace apertures, check
measuring chamber and preamplifier; see section 11.12. If the blank measurement is stopped
with a pneumatic error, troubleshoot as a displayed error codes, see section 7.2. If there is a
problem with popping off tubing in the system, see section 11.16.

9.1.7 Run Control measurements

Finally, a measurement with a sample is the most complex testing from all. A measurement gives
information about sampling, calibration, nonfunctional modules, clogged tubing or valves. Measurement
with blood sample and please check the following:
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1. The control blood needs to be run in QC menu and not Human mode. Please select proper mode.

2. The control blood shouldn't be expired and should have an exact target and range for all values.

3. During sampling, please check visually if the sample position is proper at the shear valve. Please
see section 6.5 to learn more about sampling and setting sampling position.

4. After a measurement is done, check the steps below:

o The results of the control are in range.

o Cell numbers (Woc 4, Woc B) are proper on normal control. Woc numbers (White blood
cell Optical Count) indicates how many cells are present during optical measurement.
These values have only minimum number.

Woc 4 min : 2.72, in case value is lower, X flag will appear and no 4 diff result
will be displayed.

Woc B min : 5.44, in case value is lower, x flag will appear and no Baso result will
be displayed.

o Gravity values are close to the target. Improper or unstable gravity values can indicate a
calibration or an optical head problem. Scatter calibration must be performed. See
section 7.3.3 to learn more.

o Ignore probe voltages during Control measurement. Probe voltage values are different in
Control mode. To check probe voltages, use Background or Human mode.

o Check that impedance measurement results are proper and close to target. If there is
problem with the results, make a calibration.

o Check HGB result. HGB is accomplished by a photometric measurement technology.

Incorrect HGB result can be caused by dilution or mixing failure in the WBC chamber.
Whole WBC (impedance) count is also incorrect in this case. But it's not related to the
apertures and to amplifier board. If there is a problem with HGB results, please clean the
measuring chamber and replace the HGB head; see section 11.12.4.

o The WBC differential (Ly, Mono, Neu, Eo, Baso) % results are within the limits, the values
are close to target. If there is a problem with the scatter, please do a scatter calibration,
see section 7.3.3, replace the injector in the optics, see section 11.11.1.

5. Do measurements from the Autoloader if it is attached. Make sure that the sampler can move in
X and Y direction and that the sample position is proper. See section 7.3.6. to learn more about
the Autoloader settings.
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9.2 Mechanical problems

9.2.1 General guidelines to overcome motor or moving part related problems
Make sure to follow this simple sequence to be able to locate sources of errors and to resolve problems
easily and correctly.

• Always make sure that the part with the problem can be moved freely and easily.
• Make sure that there is enough (and not excessive) amount of lubricant on the moving parts.
• Test the motor with the built in functions in service testing menu. It will always try to operate all
sensors, and will drive the motors with necessary current and power.
• Any Setting or adjusting (mechanical, opto sensor) should be done only after the previous steps
(cleaning, lubricating) did not solve the problem.

9.2.2 Sample Rotor (SR or BOB) failures

9.2.2.1 SR gives grinding noise and / or SW displays SR error messages

• The front panel alignment is not good.

• The front panel is not closed properly, the opening does not match with the sample rotor door.
Fully open or close the front panel to observe correct shear valve operation.
• There is liquid in the SR. If you can see traces of salt around the SR, then the switches might have
gotten damaged.

9.2.2.2 SR error appears during initialization process:

• Sample adaptor is removed from proper position.

• The cable of the SR is damaged, or not connected, or connection is not good.
• The motor is not working at all. Check motor cable and/or replace the motor.

9.2.2.3 The SR does not turn into the analyzer even with open front panel

• The SR door got stuck in the wash head. The wash head needs to be aligned correctly.
• Micro switches are not functioning inside the SR. Faulty switch needs to be replaced.
• PPB board is not controlling the rotor. PPB board replacement needed.

9.2.3 Needle mechanics, Vertical motor problems

9.2.3.1 The needle carriage keeps dropping back (down) at initialization

• The wash head position -relative to the needle and to the SR- is not correct. The wash head
comes down too much, and even if lifted, leaves no room for the SR door to turn.
• Make sure that the vertical rod holding the wash head (if removed or modified) is inserted
correctly.
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9.2.3.2 Vertical motor cannot reach the optosensor (Home or End)

• The wash head (when lifted) gets physically blocked by the non-moving parts of the needle
carriage (needle holding block). Set wash head, see washing head adjustments in chapter 6.1.3.
• The grip of the needle on the timing belt is in a wrong position. Set the needle and timing belt
connection. See chapter 6.1.2.2.
• The opto sensor is damaged, or the light path is blocked. Use a screwdriver, or a piece of paper
to verify operation.
• The timing belt is damaged or became too long, or got torn. In this case the XY unit has to be
removed and the belt should be replaced.
• The motor gives a strange noise (not “smooth”) even when moving. Check cable or connection
problem
• The problem comes up only when using Sarstedt (or similar) sample tubes from sample rotor.
This could happen because the system is set to pierce a monovette type of tube, not a Sarstedt
or the incorrect setting of opto flags on horizontal movement. In this case test that the motor
(carriage) can move freely and run Hori motor test. Make sure that the needle height is set
correctly. See chapter 6.1.4.
• The problem comes up only when using Sarstedt (or similar) sample tubes (AL position) because
the tube holders are not working properly. Check operation of the tube holders. They must
operate symmetrically, both tube holders should move easily and make sure that the rack can
move in and out freely. Also check that needle height is set correctly.

9.2.4 Shear Valve (SV) related errors

9.2.4.1 SV error at the first startup

• The SV cannot turn. Make sure that the pull tab has been removed, check free movement of the
upper disc and check operation of opto sensors by blocking the light path with e.g. a screwdriver.
• The SV is stuck because the last draining or preparing for shipment process was not performed
or it could not be finished. See that the motor can move the valve and it is not blocked “solid”.
Try to loosen the central screw closing the two disks and try to move the motor a few times in
service testing menu. If it does not help:
use warm water to wet the side of the SV (to make some liquid get in between
the disks)
you can also dip the SV into water if you can
gently force it apart

9.2.4.2 Grinding noise after SV cleaning, (after SV reinstallation)

• The upper disc cannot reach opto position. In this case DO NOT adjust the opto sensors! See that
lower disc is aligned correctly – loosen the fixing lever, and reseat the lower disc. See section
6.2.1.
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• Check that the middle rod on the back of the upper disc is positioned between the two moving
nods. See section 6.2.2.

9.2.4.3 SV leakage

• The upper disc is not sitting well on the lower disc. Disassemble the shear valve, clean the
internal surface. Small particles or dirt can be stuck between the two discs, making a gap
between the ceramics causing a flow.
• The closing screw is not sitting completely on the upper disc. Remove than replace the screw
properly. Make sure there is no gap between the discs.

9.2.5 Dilutor errors

9.2.5.1 Dilutor is making noise

• Dilutor pistons are not attached correctly to the dilutor’s moving part. The piston has a different
size hole on the bottom; the larger hole has to face the instrument.
• One opto sensor on the dilutor PCB is faulty. Try to move the dilutor up and down in Service
Testing menu. If noise is still present, replace the dilutor unit.

9.2.5.2 Dilutor is leaking

• The syringe or the top plastic of the syringe is cracked. In this case replace syringe.
• The “ribs” on the pistons are filled with liquid and they are white. The piston is leaking; the
whole syringe with piston should be replaced or greased with silicon grease. Do not grease the
black pistons, just replace them if needed.
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9.2.6 A tube comes off of a valve

Depending on the location (ID) of the valve, it can be caused by:

• One of the valves are not opening well. Check all of the valves in Service Testing menu. Replace
the valve which is not responding. Also remove valve coil to check for liquid leakage to coil.
• Shear valve discs are not aligned well. Adjust the shear valve, see section 6.2.
• Tube on the valve is too wide. Cut off the end of the tube and reconnect it to position.
• TCU tubing is blocked. Drain the TCU by using the option is Service Functions menu. Fill TCU and
see that the clogging in the TCU is removed. If the TCU tubing is still blocked, remove the TCU
and check the tubing inside.
• Laser flow cell is clogged. Perform a flow cell cleaning by software or manually.
• One of the chambers is clogged. Remove the metal plate from the side of the chamber and clean
it. Don't forget to drain the chambers in Maintenance before removing the front of the chamber.

If a tube comes off from a valve, it can be useful to check the tubing schematics. See the tubes
connected to the valve, follow the route of the tubing, and note that the valves involved were open or
close state when the tube popped off. Also see shear valve position when tube pops off.

By using the schematics and following the route of the tubes, it is possible to find the clogging in the
system.

9.2.7 Priming problems

9.2.7.1 The analyzer would not prime liquids

• The respective reagent is out. Check the reagent status bar on the bottom. Change reagent if
needed.
• The reagent tubing is not connected to the proper inlet. Check both ends of the tube.
• The reagent tube is bended or broken. Check the tube.
• Tube popped off from a valve. It will make the vacuum level dropping immediately, so priming
won’t be successful. Reconnect the tube.
• There is not enough vacuum to fill up the reservoirs. Check all the valves in Service Testing menu.
Replace faulty or non-opening or closing valves.
• The pressure sensor is faulty. Check sensor offsets, see section 6.6.
• Reagent buffer reservoir is cracked and vacuum is escaping. Replace the reservoir.
• The float is not moving when the reagent is filled. In this case the float sensor is stuck to the
bottom. Gently touch or tap the buffer to make the float free.
• The reservoir is full, priming doesn’t stop, but the float is not sensing, even when it’s on the top.
In this case the reagent sensor board or the float sensor is damaged. Reset the Low Level
Software to stop priming and locate the reagent sensor board. See that the LED is sensing the
float’s signal, or connect the buffer’s cable to another pair of pins. See that the LED is on. If LED
is on, the float is ok and the board can be faulty and it has to be replaced. If the LED is not turned
on, the float is faulty and the reservoir needs to be replaced.
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9.3 Electronics related problems

9.3.1 Touch screen / display errors

9.3.1.1 No image on display

• Display is white. LVDS data cable is removed from the touch screen or from the motherboard.
Reconnect the cable.
• Screen is black. Check the cables behind LCD and on the mother board. See that BIOS settings
are not modified to use different display device. See chapter 7.5.1., BIOS settings, Chipset/North
Bridge/Onchip/Select Display Device.

9.3.1.2 Touch sensitive surface not working

• When touch is not responding, it can happen that the sw is frozen or the display is faulty. The
touchscreen PCB is located on the back of the LCD. Remove the cover of the PCB and check the
board and the cable connection.
• Connect external USB mouse to the unit and check that the mouse cursor is available and
moving. If mouse is ok, remove and reconnect the Touch USB cable.

9.3.1.3 Touch (click) is inaccurate

• Connect external USB mouse and select touchscreen calibration in Diagnostic menu.

9.3.1.4 Screen image is not normal, some parts of the software screen is not visible

• The analyzer uses a resolution 600x800. If there is a problem with the size of the screen check
the resolution in Windows. Leave the High Level Software by pressing CTRL+ALT+DEL with an
external keyboard to enter Windows (only if Windows control checkbox is enabled in Service
Functions).
• It is also possible that the resolution of the screen was changed in BIOS. Enter BIOS and check
the resolution in Chipset/North Bridge/Onchip/Select Display Device.

9.3.2 Communication errors

Check the communication by going into Service menu/Sw Updates and press Refresh button. If
communication is ok, all the available firmware and software will be listed. If there is a problem with
communication, the unit will send message “Pneumatic error” or “USB communication lost”.

• In most cases, the communication problem is created by the DimmBoard. All the electronics are
working well but the data cannot access the low level software. In this case check the
DimmBoard, locate the SD card inside the board and make sure that it’s not removed.
• Remove the DimmBoard from the LSDAQCQ, clean the connection surfaces and put it back.
Don’t need to turn off the unit, just restart the Low Level Software in Service Functions. The Low
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Level Software will automatically turn on and start communication, when the connection is
available again.
• Check the start button. If it is red all time, it means the low level software is frozen or stuck in an
infinite cycle. Go to Service functions screen and restart/reset the low level sw. See section 7.3.1.
• If start button is blinking, the communication error is related to the Pneumatic system. Open the
valve block door and locate the two PPB panels. Check the cable connections; replace the small
PPB CON panel on PPB1 (left). If communication is still not ok, replace the PPB CON panel on PPB
2 (right). If the problem still not solved, replace PPB1 and then PPB2.
• The error message “Unit is not present” will notice that the communication line inside the unit is
broken. The line is a closed BUS between the LSDACQ (DimmBoard), the TCU, the pressure
sensor, the optical head and the front panel (touch). If one of these are damaged or not
connected by USB cable, the system gives a message about which unit is present or not. Locate
the faulty unit and see that the power supply is attached to it and check all their cables. See
section 9.3.4.

9.3.3 The analyzer does not power on

• If the analyzer is connected to the external power source and the main power switch is on, an
indicator LED on the motherboard should turn on to show that the power supply is working. If
the LED is not on, the power supply has to be changed. Remove the hardware module from the
analyzer and change the power supply. If the LED is on but the unit is not starting, the problem
can be the motherboard or the power-on switch. Follow the power-on switch’s cable to the
motherboard. Remove the cable from its position. Try to power on the motherboard by applying
a short circuit on that specific jumper of power-on switch with a screwdriver. If it starts, then the
switch is faulty.
• There is a “beep” sound coming from the instrument. Typically the motherboard gives this sound
if the board itself has a problem starting up or the memory card is not in place. Locate the
memory card and take it out and put it back. Replace motherboard and/or memory card if
necessary.
• The power supply works, the motherboard starts, but the system would not boot up. If high level
sw and windows cannot start, the operation system has to be reinstalled or recovered. See
section 7.5.1.
• The power supply works, the motherboard starts, windows starts, but the User interface SW
does not start (just widows desktop appear). In this case the instrument doesn’t have a properly
installed High Level Software. Download the High Level Software from Quintus support website
(msi file). Copy the software to a pen drive and insert it to the instrument. See software
installation in section 7.5. Make sure that the Low and High Level Software’s are the same
version.

9.3.4 I2C errors displayed at startup

• Check the power and data connection of the board reported missing
• Most probably the power connector of the missing module is disconnected
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• The second most likely cause is a misconnected, or not connected data cable
• A missing TCU power cable can cause a “multiple” I2C error when more than one modules are
reported missing. Check the power connection of the TCU module

9.4 Useful information and tips

9.4.1 High PLT background
After shipping it's possible that the PLT background is higher than normal for the first few background
runs.
• If the PLT level is not normal after a few runs, use a syringe to put Hypoclean CC inside the RBC
chamber and leave it there for a few minutes. Then make stress measurements from Service
menu
• If the reagent tube was contaminated, and some bacteria begin to grow inside, once you put an
infected reagent tube into a new tank, by time it can become infected as well, i.e. the background
(PLT blank) becomes high. Wash the reagent tube - which is in connection with the reagent - with
1% of bleach solution, and then rinse with clean distilled water or diluent. It can avoid the bacteria
to grow inside.
• If tank is open – and cap is not installed or closed - external dust can make reagent dirty.
• Use stress measurements to find out that the problem is dirt inside the aperture or it is noise. If
the stress results are high but slowly decreasing, it most likely dirt inside the RBC chamber. If
results have a large diversity, it's caused by noise.

9.4.2 Fast Starting up and Shutting down

During troubleshooting, it is possible that the unit needs to be turned off and on multiple times. Before
shutdown, the unit has to make a cleaning process and after an improper shutdown, the instrument
requires a cleaning process when turned on again. The cleaning procedure is not always necessary during
troubleshooting and it can take a long time.

The cleaning procedure can be skipped by running program code 66 in Service Testing menu. Run this
program before shutdown to make it faster and to skip the cleaning process run the program before
running background measurement. Note… Important that end user perform daily cleaning and do not
inform your customer about this trick.

9.4.3 Removing bubbles from the Flow cell

The flow in the flow cell is very critical during the measurement. If bubbles appear in the tubing system
(the 4 meter tube below SV and the flow cell), it can make improper scatter values. The easiest way to
check the amount of bubbles is to press valve #1 and #20 together. This will start the flow inside the 4
meter tube; moving bubbles can be noticed easier. To start the flow in the flow cell, press valve #1 and
#32 together and check the laser waste tube for bubbles. If there are too many bubbles in the laser,
check the tubing and "T" connections in the tubing at valve #20 and #32. If bubbles are leaving the laser
but not entering into it, the injector must be cracked. Remove the laser and replace the injector.
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9.4.4 Removing the DimmBoard

There is no need to turn off the instrument to remove the DimmBoard. Go to Service Functions menu
and press ‘Low Level Reboot’ button. After a few seconds, the start button will turn off which means the
low level sw is turned off to reboot. It is possible to remove the DimmBoard or the SD card while the Low
Level Software is off. After a few seconds, the software reboots and the communication will return. If
there is not DimmBoard in the LSDACQ, the communication will be lost until the board is replaced. After
replace, it is possible that the system needs a Low Level Software reboot to wake up.

9.4.5 Listen the sounds of the instrument

The unit keeps repeating the same process during measurements. The sound of the unit is very telling
and can warn the user or service engineer that something is not working properly. It is also useful to put
your ears on the front panel and listen the mechanics. Some noise can be discovered easier this way.

9.4.6 Replacing small diameter tubes

Some tubes in the unit are connected to a small plastic 'T' fitting. Replacing these tubes can be difficult
because the tube's diameter is smaller than the fitting. In this case a thin metal rod can help putting back
the tube to position. Put the rod's end into the 'T' fitting while the tube is on the rod. This way the fitting
will not broke while the tube is pressed onto it, because the metal rod is keeping it on position from
inside.

9.4.7 Swapping the pumps

For troubleshooting, it can be useful to swap the two
pumps. The instrument can work when the two
pumps are interchanged. It's not necessary to remove
the pumps, simply just remove pump 1 cable from
PPB1 and pump 2 cable from PPB2. Connect pump 1
(outer) cable to PPB2 and pump2 (inner) cable to
PPB1. After this, also change the tube connections
next to the reservoirs. By this it's possible to find out
which pumps has problems. Self-test results can help.

9.4.8 Draining the reservoirs

If there is a problem with a reservoir and it needs to be changed it has to be drained first. Draining is
made by the unit automatically by pressing drain in Maintenance menu. To save time, it is possible to
remove the tube from the top of the reservoir. The ambient air pressure will push the reagent out from
the reservoir faster than the draining procedure. Use this only when reservoir needs to be replaced.
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10 Maintenance
10.1 User maintenance
10.1.1 Daily maintenance
Quintus requires automated maintenance during daily routine. It is a user maintenance.

At the end of day a system cleaning procedure is recommended. To perform this cleaning, prepare a vial
containing 2-4 ml •Boule Hypochlorite® and place it in the Sample Rotor. From Main Menu go to: Exit in
right lower corner and press overnight clean or shutdown. This will initiate a cleaning cycle, all chambers,
needle, shear valve and the TCU is cleaned with diluted Boule Hypochlorite®and the system will be rinsed
with diluent. Instrument use approx. 1ml for a daily cleaning cycle and 3ml for Hard cleaning cycle. These
cleaning cycles could also be activated from Maintenance menu

10.1.2 Weekly maintenance

Weekly maintenance is for cleaning salt build-up from the most contaminated surfaces. It is
recommended to clean the Shear Valve and Needle Wash head after every 1500 samples.

10.1.2.1 Shear Valve cleaning

This procedure is detailed in User Manual section 9.2

10.1.2.2 Cleaning the wash head

This procedure is detailed in User Manual section 9.3

10.2 Preventive Maintenance

The procedures in this section are service maintenance.

Preventive maintenance frequency depends on the daily workload of the customer.

In Quintus Service Manual the maintenance interval of moving parts and syringes is determined as to be
done after every 30.000 measurement cycles or twice per year.

As a general rule, at least 1 maintenance per year must be performed to ensure correct functioning
and performance according to specification.

Boule recommends the following frequency for preventive maintenance by field service:

- for instruments with a workload of up to 100 samples/day

Preventive maintenance by field service should be performed once per year

- for instruments with a workload between 100 and 200 samples/day

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Preventive maintenance by field service should be performed 2 times per year

- for instruments with a workload above 200 samples/day

Preventive maintenance by field service should be performed at least 3 times per year

To do list and materials needed for a preventive maintenance intervention

Note: there is no difference between the „6 months” or „1 year” preventive maintenance. The same
maintenance protocol must be followed and applied every time.

Procedure Duration: ~ 2-3 hours

Tools needed:

- hex screwdrivers (1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4)

- torx screwdrivers (2.5, 3)
- philips screwdriver (2)
- small size flat screwdriver
- forceps
- tweezers
- syringe (at least 20ml)

Materials needed:

- silicone grease (1141123_S)

- teflon grease (1141122_S)
- bleach ( Boule Hypochlorite)
- distilled water, ~500ml
- paper towels
- compressed air
- Required protective safety equipment (gloves, lab coat, glasses, etc.)
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Spare parts needed:

Part number Description Quantity

1141023_S Washing head 1

1141046_S 4/1.8 Tygon tube 4m

1141047_S 1,27/2,23 Tygon tube (type: S 54-HL) 1m

1141051_S 0,78/2,38 Tygon sampling tube for A5, 26 cm 1m

1141027_S Sampling needle 1

1141005_S Dilutor syringe with piston white (mounted, 2 ml) 6

1141006_S Dilutor syringe with piston black (mounted, 2ml) 2

Suggestion of spare parts which are good to have but not necessary at a PM visit:

- RBC/WBC Chamber 1141035_S/1141034_S

- RBC/WBC Aperture 1141033_S/1141032_S
- 2/2 Valve with Coil 1141043_S
- 3/2 Valve with Coil 1141044_S
- Pressure sensor board 1141097_S

Preventive Maintenance Protocol:

1. First steps / Checking the state of the analyzer

1.1 turn on the analyzer, run background and check if values are within accepted range
1.2 run Self-test (electronic and pneumatic), if should show „Passed” check if any value is close to
the accepted limit, if it is „failed” troubleshoot accordingly
1.3 In case of high „laser on” or „laser off” DC level run a background cycle and Self-test again. If DC
level values are still high do a flow cell cleaning, see section 10.3
1.4 from Service/Service functions 5/6 „pressure offset adjustment” and check if values are within
range; change the pressure sensor board (1141097_S) if „offset values cannot be adjusted”,
message appears or if adjusted value is very close to the limit (refer to SM for limits)
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Next step is to bring the analyzer into the proper state where maintenance procedures can be performed
without the risk of liquids spilling on parts. DO NOT skip the 3 procedures listed below:

1.5 from Service menu-Service functions run „drain TCU” option; follow instructions in the SM
regarding this procedure
1.6 from Service menu run-Service functions run „drain Flow cell” option;
1.7 from Maintenance menu empty all 3 chambers(RBC/PLT, WBC, MIX)
At this point maintenance of parts can be started. Open the front cover and remove side covers of the
analyzer.

Inspect:

2. Valves
2.1 check for any dirt or deposit in the valve; if necessary clean inside of valve by pushing DI water or
bleach through it by means of a syringe
2.2 if any sign show that liquid spilled on the valve, remove the valve head to see if liquid got also in
the coil, if so, replace the coil
2.3 activate each valve from service menu; if switching of valve isn’t firm(smooth movement of
membrane) try to clean it or replace the valve head
2.4 check the exhausting tube/vent nozzle on valve #5 to be free of dust or any deposit; clean it with
DI water if necessary
2.5 Special attention on valve #2: this valve and related tubing must be clean. In case of dirty
valve/tubing, flow of laser waste through valve is restricted and it has direct influence on optical
counts (!) Replace the valve and/or tubing if necessary
2.6 Special attention on valves #34 and #35 as well; these valves and the related tubing must also be
clean and free of any deposit. Replace the valve and/or tubing if necessary

Proceed to step 3.

3. Tubes
3.1 all tubes must be clean inside; any deposit must be cleaned with bleach and rinsed with DI water
or replace the tubing, note… some tubes could be miss color but can still work ok.
3.2 check tube connections on valves, chambers, SV, wash head, internal reservoirs etc. all
connection points must be tight, otherwise change that tube portion with new tube
3.3 as a rule if a tube cannot be cleaned sufficiently and/or its’ connection isn’t tight it is
recommended to be changed with new tube

Proceed to step 4.

4. Chambers
4.1 all chambers should be clean, free of scratches or cracks
4.2 removal of chambers is recommended to check if no liquid has spilled behind them and also to
see if the electrode is in good condition; change the chamber if any visible crack can be seen or if
the electrode can be moved by hand
4.3 reinstall the chambers

Proceed to step 5.
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5. Dilutors
5.1 from service menu-service testing move dilutors one-by-one and check if large air bubbles are
visible in the syringes or if any leakage sign can be seen on or beneath them; mark the syringe(s)
where you saw large air bubbles getting in near the plunger. Note… some air bubbles will always
be present in some syringes during analyze and does not necessary need to effect results.
5.2 perform dilutor pistons cleaning and greasing procedure
- Follow instructions of section 10.2;
Black pistons should NOT be greased (!)

Use a forceps to close the tube above the syringe you are going to remove. This is to avoid reagent from
internal reservoirs spilling back to the reagent bottle. Remove one syringe at a time only!

5.3 cycle dilutors from service menu again, if any of the syringes does not seal properly
(air bubbles are still getting inside near the plunger) replace the syringe(s)

Boule recommendation as preventive maintenance: replace syringes after 50.000 measurement cycles

5.4 clean dilutor opto sensors from dust by means of compressed air
5.5 clean the driving pin of dilutors then lubricate them with Teflon grease (1141122_S)

Proceed to step 6.

6. Shear Valve
6.1 Inspect tubes on SV for any deposit or discoloration, especially the „4diff waste” and „Laser in”
(refer to fluidic schematic of the analyzer to identify these tubes) tube; lower section of laser
waste tube might have black color – it can be cleaned with bleach or that tube section can be
changed.

Note: when removing tubes from the SV ports use a small flat screwdriver to help the tube slide off from
the port; to avoid misconnection remove only 1 tube at a time

6.2 check tightness of tubes on SV ports by hand, all tubes connections must be firm; if any tube
comes off easily if pulled by hand that tube section should be changed
6.3 clean the SV opto sensors from dust by means of compressed air
6.4 from service menu cycle the SV several times; if the movement isn’t smooth or noise is coming
from driving mechanism, remove the cover behind the SV and lubricate the cogged wheel/bar
with machine grease; apply a thin film of Teflon grease to the two ends of the sliding clutch-bed
6.5 reinstall the driving mechanism cover
6.6 change the blood sensor tube(tube between the needle and SV)

Proceed to step 7.
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7. Laser head
The laser head doesn’t need to be opened for regular maintenance. Opening the laser head will end the
warranty period for the optical head!

If „laser on” DC level was high during repeated Self-test cycles, it might be necessary to clean the Flow
Cell manually. This should be done only if „laser on” DC level is still high after the software given “flow
cell cleaning” procedure option was done.

If „laser off” DC level is high that might indicate failure of a component of the laser head.

If any deposit can be seen in the „laser in” tube or if „laser on” DC level was high during Self-test
than do the following:

7.1 remove the thick, RED coded tygon tube(laser waste) from the tube organizer and connect a
syringe to it
7.2 prepare at least 10ml of 1/1 bleach solution(1 part bleach, 1 part DI water) in a cup
7.3 remove the „Laser in” tube from the SV and immerse it into the bleach
7.4 gently pull the syringe until at least half of the bleach is aspirated or until the „Laser in” tube is
clean
7.5 remove the „Laser in” tube from the bleach and pull ~ 20ml of air through it
7.6 reconnect the „Laser in” and „laser waste” tubes to their ports

Proceed to step 8.

8. TCU
The TCU unit is a key assembly and proper functioning of this part is vital for good performance
of the analyzer. Therefore with the occasion of periodic maintenance the TCU unit must also be
inspected by service engineer. Inspection is only possible if the TCU unit is removed from the
instrument. Follow instructions of the SM for removal of the TCU.

8.1 clean the fan and heat sink of the TCU from dust with compressed air
8.2 remove the in-line mixer cover and check the 2 tygon tubes for any deposit
8.3 if necessary clean or replace* the 2 tubes with 1,8x4,0 mm tygon tubes cut to the same length

* Tubes of the in-line mixer are the bottleneck for flow inside the TCU. Any deposit in these tubes will
cause overpressure in the 4diff sample preparation circuit which in worst case will result in tubes being
pushed off from valves and would cause liquid spills inside the analyzer. Natural ageing of tygon results in
loss of elasticity and small decrease of diameter. Ageing is speeded up by the aggressive reagents (Lyse
and stopper).

8.4 reassemble the TCU unit to its place, follow instructions of the SM
Proceed to step 9.
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9. Wash head and XY block

9.1 clean the sliding bars of the XY unit with a paper towel and apply a thin film of Teflon grease on
them
9.2 clean the opto sensor on the XY opto board with compressed air
9.3 verify the metal ports of the wash head are not loose, replace the wash head if any of the ports
can be moved by hand
9.4 verify the vertical movement of wash head neck inside of the XY block by lifting it up from the
needle holder

Attention: Sharp needle! Risk of injury! Biohazard!

9.5 vertical movement of the wash head must be easy without any obstruction, clean the wash head
neck if movement isn’t smooth
9.6 clean the bottom of wash head

Proceed to step 10.

10. Verification/adjustments
From service menu-service functions run:
10.1 „pneumatic initialization”
10.2 „fill flow cell”
10.3 „fill TCU”

Run shutdown then switch on the analyzer.

10.4 run background counts until background values are within accepted limit; several background
cycles might be necessary to achieve good values – this is normal behavior after tubes and
subassemblies have been drained and refilled
10.5 run Self-test (both) and check that all parameters are within range
10.6 if DC level is still high contact Boule
10.7 from Service menu-Service functions perform wash head and needle position verification;
adjust if necessary
10.8 adjust blood sensor default value(with blood sensor disabled)
10.9 calibrate the blood sensor
10.10 verify calibration with fresh control blood; calibrate the instrument if necessary
10.11 run human samples and check results
10.12 run repeatability test(at least 11 measurements from one fresh human blood with normal
values) and check CV%-s are within specification for all parameters

Preventive maintenance is done!

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10.3 Flow cell cleaning

The optical measurement system of the Quintus is strictly vacuum-based. Please do not apply pressure
to the flow cell!

Tools needed:

• small flat screwdriver

• Syringe(10-15 ml or bigger)
• small cup with Hypochlorite (approx.. 10-20 ml)

Procedure:

1. Open and secure front panel.

2. Run “drain flow cell” function from service menu-service functions 3/6
3. Remove the laser waste tube from the connector located on left side of inner front panel. This
tube has red strip on it. Use a small flat screwdriver to help the tube come off from the metal port.
4. Connect the (empty) syringe to the tube.

5. Disconnect the sheath tube from the connector located on left side of inner front panel. This tube
has green strip on it and it is smaller in diameter. Use the screwdriver to help removal.
 143

6. Pour Hypochlorite into a cup and place the end of the sheath tube in it.

7. Gently pull the syringe to make the bleach flow through the Flow Cell.
You can increase cleaning efficiency if you let air bubbles in the sheath tube while pulling.
8. Remove the sheath tube from the bleach and pull some air through the FC.
9. Reconnect sheath tube to its connector.
10. Remove the laser sample tube from upper disc of SV. This is the thinnest tube. Use the small flat
screwdriver to help removal from metal port.
 144

11. Place the end of sample injector tube in bleach. Gently pull the syringe to clean the sample injector
tube from the inside.
12. Remove the sample injector tube from bleach, pull some air with the syringe, wipe the end of the
tube and reconnect it to its port on the SV.
13. Remove the syringe from the laser waste tube and connect the tube back to its connector.
14. Run “fill flow cell” function from service menu-service functions 3/6
15. Check that background and sample results are acceptable.
 145

11 Removal and replacement procedures

11.1 Opening the instrument
Both side covers of the instrument can be easily removed. This allows reaching of the fluidic system and
the mechanical parts. Other parts of the analyzer can be reached by lifting up the front panel.

Don’t forget to secure the front cover in the upper position after lifting,
as it may fall down if unsecured!

To take off the left cover:

Loosen the four milled-edge screws in the front and on the back of the analyzer.
Pull the cover to the left to take it off.

To take off the right cover:

The procedure is the same as in the case of the left
cover.

Milled-edge screws
 146

11.2 Shear Valve Assembly

Shear Valve Assembly is located in middle of
front side of Quintus behind the front cover.

Main parts of Shear Valve Unit:

• Ceramic valve
• Driver unit with a stepper motor
• SV Opto sensor board

Ceramic valve removal

• Drain SV and the tubes from SV clean function in the Maintenance screen
• Prepare a piece of absorbent paper to dry components if necessary
• Remove the thumb screw on the valve
• Remove the upper ceramic disc
• Remove the lower ceramic disc of the valve pulling it upward

Ceramic Valve install

• Put back lower ceramic disk
• Make sure the fixing plates hold the disc in tight enough, prevent
the lower disk rotating. Please realign the plates if it needs.
• Install the upper ceramic disk, making sure the longer horizontal
pin is between the two rods of the Shear Valve drive. So it can
move the upper ceramic disk. The other rod must be able to move
into opto sensors freely. Fix the Shear Valve with the thumb screw. Please do a Shear Valve Opto
SNSR alignment if the right side pin hits one of the opto sensors.
• Check the operation.
 147

Shear Valve Opto Sensor board replacement

• Shear Valve opto sensors are mounted to the right side
on Shear Valve Assembly with 3 screws in such a way the
sensors can be set separately.
• remove screw behind the circular opening (through the
hole)
• Watch out the plastic washers.
• Remove the screws behind the oval opening (through
the opening)
• pull out the opto board and remove the 2 cables
• Install a new board.
• connect cables
• install big board (2 screws) use plastic washers
• install small board (1 screw) use plastic washers
• Make sure that the lower disc’s flat side is aligned, and
secure. You should not be able to move (twist) the lower
disc at all.
• Perform a SV alignment procedure 6.2.

Shear Valve Assembly removal

• Disconnect cable from SV opto board
• Disconnect SV motor cable from PPB
• Remove four screws on the front of SV assembly
• Move the SV assembly out of the instrument

11.3 XY Unit
• XY unit contains the slides for Horizontal and Vertical movements, two stepper motors, XYR opto
board, opto wheel, sample rotor, wash head holder, wash head and the sampling needle. With
the exception of the sampling needle, wash head, wash head holder and MHori (stepper motor
for horizontal movement), for proper servicing the XY unit needs to be removed. The procedure
is the following: Turn off the analyzer.
• Lift and secure the front panel, then remove the right cover.
• If the analyzer is equipped with an Autoloader, disconnect and remove the Autoloader module.
• Loosen the two sampling needle fixing screws and remove the needle.
• Sampling needle is sharp and represents biohazard! Take extra care and wear gloves when
servicing this part of the analyzer.
• Remove the baluster. Its lower screw can be access from the bottom of analyzer.
 148

• Locate and unscrew the four screws from

the bottom of the analyzer, which hold
the Sample Rotor basis.

• Unscrew the two (upper and lower)

screws which hold the rear part of the XY
unit. One screw is located above the
MVert (the bigger stepper motor for
vertical movement and cap piercing), the
other one is located below the
optowheel and sliding bar, near the
same motor.
 149

• Gently remove the wash head holder with

the wash head, by twisting it clockwise
and pulling it down until released.
• Disconnect electrical cables
• Remove the XY unit

Sampling needle
fixing screws

Upper screw

MVert
Washing head and
washing head holder
MHori

Sample Rotor basis (the Lower screw

screws are located on
the bottom of the
analyzer).

For mounting back the XY unit, follow the steps listed above in reverse order. Make sure to perform the
Sampling Needle adjustment procedure after reinstallation.
 150

11.4 Sample Rotor

Sample rotor holds the sample tube and turns it inside the instrument for cap piercing. In order to
provide its proper operation with XY unit, they are equipped
together.

Sample Rotor removal:

• Remove XY unit with Sample Rotor as it is written in

previous item
• Remove two screws from the front of XY unit that
hold the Sample Rotor rods
• Separate the Sample Rotor
• Pull off the door. Please check rotor arm and the hole
of lower door plate rod position when put back the
door.
• Two end position switches can be removed and
motor of unit are accessible.
 151

11.5 Dilutors
Quintus has two separate main dilutor modules, located behind the front panel on the lower part of the
front plate. Each modules is secured by four hex screws and has a flat cable connection to PPB1
respectively PPB2. The removal/replacement
procedure is as follows:
1. Turn off the analyzer.
2. Lift and secure the front panel.
3. Remove the tubing from the syringes.
4. Unscrew the four hex screws and put them
in a safe place where you can find them
later.
5. Gently pull the unit toward you until you can
see the flat cable connector on the rear side
of the dilutor opto board. Disconnect the cable.
6. Now the dilutor module is released and available
for maintenance or replacement.
To remount the dilutor unit, follow the steps described
above in reverse order.
 152

11.5.1 Syringe replacement

• Remove two thumb screws from the syringe holder
bar and remove the holder bar from the top of the
syringes.
• Remove lower thumb screw from syringe piston
rod.
• Remove the syringe
Installing back a new syringe take care the direction of
piston rod. The wider hole must be turned inside the
system.

Correct Incorrect

11.6 TCU Module

The Temperature Control Unit is located below the Laser Head Assembly. It is connected to the Shear
Valve and to the tube organizer via Tygon tubing. The internal electronics are connected to the power
supply and to the LSDACQ board. In order to remove this unit, follow the steps below:

- turn off the analyzer

- If autoloader is installed, disconnect and remove the Autoloader module.
- drain the TCU module manually
disconnect the BLACK tube and connect a 10ml syringe
 153

disconnect the GREEN tube and aspirate liquid from the TCU module using the
syringe
disconnect the WHITE tube and
connect a 10ml syringe
disconnect the RED tube and
aspirate liquid from the TCU
module using the syringe

- remove the screw above the shear valve

(securing the front of the TCU)

- remove the 4 screws in the back of the

analyzer securing the rear

- open the assembly plate on the left side of the

analyzer to have access to the TCU control board
cables
- locate and disconnect the power cable of the TCU
module
- disconnect the controlling cable coming from the
LSDACQ board
- pull the TCU out towards the back of the analyzer

To reinstall: follow the procedure in reverse order

 154

11.7 Valve block

3/2 valves
Valves can be removed
together in one assembly
(valve, coil, board) or
individually one by one.

To remove the complete

assembly just unscrew the
6 mounting screw and
3/2 valves
disconnect the driver
cables on the back.

3/2 valves

A valve has two main parts: the valve unit and electromagnet coil.

The tubes are connected to the valve pins.

The coil is soldered to valve block board.
A plate fixes the main parts together on the coil site.
 155

Pull with pliers

To remove individually you’ll need to use a plier to pull the

valve fixing plate out at the back and after that it is possible
to remove only the valve itself.

11.8 Pre-Amplifier Board

Pre-Amplifier Board is located inner side of the fluidics
panel, behind the Measuring Black. It is under a metal
cover that fixed to the fluidics panel with two screws. See
the picture.
 156

11.9 Pump Assembly

1. Open the front cover.
2. Remove the left side cover by loosening the four fixing screws.
3. Loosen the two clamp-screws on the rear panel and open the side pneumatic board.
4. Pull off the connected tubes from inner fittings of Waste output and pump inlet tubes from
lower right side of flow Panel.

5. Pull off the connected cables (red-green-black) from the

PPB boards. The pump 1 (outer one) power cable is
connected to PBB1 (left board), the pump 2 (inner one)
power cable is connected to PBB2 (right board).
6. Unscrew the screws at the top of the pump fixing bar
and pull it up with the white plastic bar.
7. Lift off the pumps.
 157

11.10 Hardware Module

The whole removing procedure is easier by opening the front cover and with removed side covers.

1. Unscrew the five screws connected on the rear plate.

2. The assembly is positioned and pushed down inside by a spring sheet. Gently pull out the
fixing plate until almost the whole module comes out. Be careful not to strain the power and
data cables connected to other parts inside.
3. If you want to completely remove the module you have to disconnect all the power and data
cables connected inside.
 158

11.11 Laser Head Assembly

To remove the Laser Head:

Turn on the analyzer.

1. Go to service menu then type in the service password 6484. Go to service functions 3/6 and click
Drain flow cell and wait until the process finish
2. Turn off the analyzer (from rear start switch)
3. Open (lift up) and secure front cover.
4. Remove right side cover.
5. Unscrew the 4 holding screws of the top cover then remove it by lifting and sliding it
backwards.
6. Locate the three tube connections of the Laser Head.
#1 – laser sample tube; #2 – sheath tube; #3 – laser waste tube.

7. Gently remove the tubes from the metal ports. Use a small flat screwdriver to help sliding tubes
off.
 159

8. CLOSE FRONT DOOR

9. Disconnect both cables from the optical head. Refer to picture 4 below.
(#1 – autoalignment cable*; #2 – optosensor board cable; #3 – laserdriver board cable)

Note: it is easier to disconnect the laserdriver board cable from the LSDACQ board. Units
produced after 2013.06.doesn’t have auto alignment cable.
 160

1
2

10. Locate the four holding screws of the base-plate of the optical head. Refer to Picture 5.below.
Use a 2,5 mm hex screwdriver to remove the
screws. Take extra care of the washers.
11. Gently remove the optical head unit. To avoid
damage of the sample injector needle and
sheath inlets on the base of the flow cell
please always place the laser head assembly
on its’ side or upside-down. Do not bent
tubes too much.
 161

11.11.1 Laser injector replacement procedure

Laser issues when injector needs to be changed:

No scatter available (both 4diff and Baso). No

scatter gram appeared after measurement,
warning flags x and X are displayed at warning
flags. In some cases the absence of the scatter
does not mean that the injector is faulty.
Sometimes the flow cell gets clogged making the
flow improper or unavailable. In this cases,
cleaning the flow cell could solve the problem,
using the default cleaning process in maintenance
menu (flow cell cleaning), or using a syringe. If
software cleaning or manual cleaning doesn’t
help, injector replacement is needed. In this case,
remove the laser and check the injector’s needle.
Sometimes the damage is not visible, so replacing
the injector is necessary.

It’s also an injector related issue, when the scatter

appears in both 4diff and Baso, but the graphs are
improper and values are abnormal. This can be,
because the injector needle is removed from
proper position and the sample flow inside the flow
cell is not in the middle. For a proper
measurement, it’s important that the sample flow
should be in the middle of the flow cell,
surrounded by the sheet flow which is injected next
to the sample needle.

In this case the reagent inlets has to be checked fist

to make sure that lyse and stopper reagents are
not replaced. If reagents are well attached, the
injector needle has to be checked and changed.
 162

11.11.1.1 Removing the laser for injector replacement:

Step 1: Step 2:

Remove the holding screws of the optical head. Remove the three cables connected to the laser.

Step 3:

Disconnect the tubing from shear valve and the black plastic console
 163

11.11.1.2 Removing the injector:

Step 1:

The injector is under the black protecting cap on the bottom of the laser. To access the injector, gently
remove the black cover by hand.

Step 2:

Remove the three holding screws completely. Use a flat-blade screwdriver (used when removing the
laser cables) to lift the injector from the injector’s housing. The injector is very well fitted on its place so
removing it requires some force.
 164

Step 3:

Place the new injector inside the housing; make sure that the holes on the injector are looking at the
same direction as on the housing. Check that the injector has the black O ring(s) attached!

Step 4:

If injector is in position, replace the screws. Don’t tight the screws too hard because it can crack the
injector or the plastic pert of the flow cell. If the screws are well in place, put the cap back to position
(only the thin sample tube and the green sheet tube included, waste is separated).

Step 5:

Place the laser optics back into the instrument; connect the cables and the tubes. Run control and fresh
blood sample measurement to check that the laser works fine with the new injector. There were not
laser adjustments on the flow cell during this procedure, so there’s no need to realign the laser.

Step 6:

If scatter is visible and the values are acceptable, put the laser holding screws back to their place.

Please do a scatter calibration, if needed.

 165

11.11.1.3 Reinstalling the Laser Head:

(Analyzer is turned off, right side and top covers removed, front door is CLOSED)

1. Connect laser driver board cable to laser head.

2. Place the Laser Head to its’ place. Guide tubes to exit towards the front.
3. Tighten the screws, make sure that ground cable is also in place and washers are installed.
3. Reconnect autoalignment* and optosensor cables.
4. LIFT UP AND SECURE FRONT COVER.
5. Reconnect tubes to the corresponding ports.
6. Turn on the analyzer; activate the service menu, then click on Service/Optical alignment
(code 13579).
Check the values of “laser power” (4 diff and baso) on “Laser settings” field on screen 2/2.
Compare these values with the Auto alignment datasheet received with the new laser head.
Enter new values from the datasheet (only necessary if those are different from the analyzer’s
values) and click on Save values. Exit from service menu.
7. Click on Measure for background count, if necessary repeat background cycles until all values are
in acceptable range.
8. Prepare a freshly opened Boule 5diff Normal con/cal. Run “Scatter Calibration Procedure”, see
section 6.9.1 point 10 or section 7.3.3

11.12 Measuring Block

• Remove the left side cover by loosening the four fixing screws.
• Measurement Block is located middle upper side of flow panel, above the valve blocks. It
has WBC measuring chamber, RBC/PLT measuring chamber, Mix chamber and a drain
buffer.
 166

11.12.1 Aperture removal:

WBC, 80µm and RBC/PLT, 70 µm apertures are behind metal front plate of measuring units mounted by
four screws. Two long ones (upper left and lower right) fixes the metal plate to the measuring chamber,
two short ones (upper right and lower left) fix the measuring chamber the back plate of the unit. See the
picture.

11.12.2 WBC aperture removal:

• Drain the chambers in maintenance
menu.
• Unscrew hex nut on the right site of
front panel that fixes the black metal
shield.
• Remove the black shield.
• Remove four screws from the unit.
• Remove black grounding wire and the
metal plate with two tube fittings.
• Aperture can be removed. Be careful
with the plastic parts, do not scratch
them.
 167

11.12.3 Measuring Chamber removal:

• After two short screws (upper right and lower left)
and black grounding wire removal, the measuring
unit can be taken out.
• Pay attention: if long screws had been removed,
their square nuts on the back of measuring
chamber may be fallen out from the unit. See the
picture.

11.12.4 HGB head removal

• WBC measuring chamber must be removed, as it is written above.
• Pull off the HGB head from pre-amplifier connector.
 168

11.13 Display unit

Display unit is installed on to the front panel of Quintus with a metal mounting unit. The LED display is
controlled directly by Hardware block, the touch screen is driven by a Touch Controller board. It is
behind the display, under a metal cover.

Display removal:

• Turn the system off

• Remove the front cover fixing arm and two hinges
• Disconnect the grounding cable
• Take off the front panel and put it on flat surface
• Remove the metal cover of Touch Controller board
• Disconnect the cables
• Remove the metal mounting plate by taking out four screws
• Remove the LED display from the metal plate
 169

11.14 Quintus Fluidics v2.1 - SV in Chamber Position

 170

11.15 Quintus Fluidics v2.1 - SV in Needle Position

 171

11.16 Tubings
Preparing of tubings:
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
 181

Note: 400cm tube from V20 to SV upper disc is type A5433 1.27/2.23
 182

12 Appendix

12.1 Recommended kit of tools

• PC standard keyboard (USB)
• Screwdrivers:
Slot Screwdrivers

Cross Slot Screwdrivers (Philips)

Hexagon Screwdrivers (3.5, 2.5, 2.0, 1.5 mm sizes)

• Pocket digital multimeter

• Diagonal Cutter (plier)
• Nipper
 183

12.2 How to use the „Collect” function of the Quintus hematology

analyzer

When is it needed?

- After servicing the analyzer (for documentation purposes)

- When requested by the service engineer (user can do it)
- When requested by Boule Support

How to do it?

- Run a blank measurement*

- Run some patient samples*
- Run a control measurement*
- From ’Menu/Diagnostics/Self-test’ click on ’Start’ button and wait for the result.
- Insert a USB Stick in one of the USB ports on back of the analyzer
- From ’Diagnostics/Information’ click on ’Refresh data’ then on ’Collect’ button.
- When the window with drive E:/ appears select the drive then click on ’OK’ button
- This function saves the following information in a .gz file:
o Self-test result
o Stress Blank result
o Last 10 Human measurement rp-file
o Last Blank measurement rp-file
o Event log
o Statistics
o User/Service/calibration factors
o SW – PIC – Firmware versions

Keep the file for your records or send it to service@boule.se if asked by support staff.
 184

12.3 Quintus technical specifications

Sample volume Closed-, and Open-mode: ~100µl
Sample type Human whole blood (K-EDTA anticoagulant)
Tube Identification By means of the front panel keyboard (enter ID)
By means of the barcode labels (manual and/or auto-sampler)
Sampling method Ceramic shear valve with 3 separated primary loops
Measured parameters CBC+5DIFF mode (24 parameters):
WBC, LYM, MON, NEU, EOS, BASO, LYM%, MON%, NEU%, EOS%, BASO%
RBC, HCT, MCV, RDW, RDW%, HGB, MCH, MCHC
PLT, PCT, MPV, PDW, PDW%

Throughput 60 tests/hour
Measurement method volumetric impedance change for WBC, RBC, PLT
Spectrophotometer for HGB
Light scattering 4-diff measurement: LYM, MON, NEU, EOS
Light scattering BASO measurement
Aperture diameter WBC: 80µm, RBC/PLT: 70µm
Aperture length WBC: 80µm, RBC/PLT: 70µm
HGB measurement Light source: green LED with 540 nm wavelength
Detector: light to frequency converter
Optical measurement Light source: semiconductor laser diode with 650 nm wavelength and 7mW
(Class IIIB laser module if the protective housing is closed)
Quartz flow cell with hydro-dynamic focusing
Detector: fiber optic coupled PIN Si photodiodes
internal safety interlock
Auto-alignment system Optional. Horizontal and vertical calibration of laser beam path.
Coarse calibration: with blood
Fine calibration: with calibration material (Polystyrene micro-particle or microsphere, 7µm)
Reagents Quintus 5-part Diluent (20 liter)
Quintus 5-part Lyse (5 liter)
Quintus 5-part Stopper (5 liter)
Boule Hypochlorite (2%) Cleaner
Dilution ratios WBC/BASO 1: 171
RBC/PLT 1: 21 512 (1 st dilution 1:154 in Mix chamber)
4 DIFF 1: 69
Sheath fluid Quintus 5-part Diluent
Control material Boule Con-5Diff manufactured by Boule Medical AB
Quality Control 16- and 64-day Levy-Jennings charts, separate QC database (6 Level)
Flagging Pathological flags
Lab limits (normal ranges)
Reagents alert (3 measurement prealert-online reagent replacement)
Instrument alerts, internal puffer for reagents
Calibration Manual and SW supported automatic mode
Languages available English menu and support for other languages
Software upgrade Via USB
Data storage capacity 100.000 records including flags, scatter- and histograms
Data processning VIA C7 1.8 GHz processor
Data store Embedded XP
Display 800 x 600 color graphic LCD, landscape layout
External printing Via USB port, any Windows compatible printer
External keyboard Via PS/2 or USB
Bar-Code reader Optional Manual bar-code reader via USB
Built in Bar-Code in the Auto-sampler
Peripheral ports USB (2.0) 4pc., Ethernet, PS/2
Power requirements Power supply input: from 90-135Vac to 180-265Vac; 47Hz to 63Hz
Power supply input current: <10A @ 115Vac; <5A @ 230Vac
Power Consumption: maximum 350 VA
Operating temperature 15-35° C (59-98 °F);
Maximum relative humidity 80%
 185

12.4 Reagent consumption

Reagent consumption / function (ml)

Function Quintus 5-part Lyse Quintus 5-part Stopper Quintus 5-part Diluent

Measure Background 5,7 0,7 52

Measure 5 part 5,7 0,7 52

Measure Calibration 5,7 0,7 52

Measure QC 5,7 0,7 52

Standby + WakeUp 1 0 20,2

StartUp 13,6 1,7 128

Shutdown 6,7 0,7 144,2

Cleaning + Background 6,7 0,7 133

Off line Cleaning 6,7 0,7 72,2

This example is valid with 21 working days per month and with the analyzer power-on 24h:

No. Tests per day Test from 1 Lyse box Tests from 1 Stopper box Tests from 1 Diluent box

∞ 877 7143 385

200 841 6880 364

100 807 6637 345

80 791 6521 336

50 747 6197 313

30 680 5695 278

 186

12.5 Spare parts

S = for Service purposes, M = for Maintenance purposes

PART NO PART DESCRIPTION M/S Maint. Kit Service kit (<10)

Cables, connectors
1141061_S Touch-panel USB cable S 1
1141062_S Shielded amplifier cable S 2
Opt5 AL interface connector S 1
1141063_S USB socket PCB S 1
1141064_S Microswitch cable S 2
1141065_S Flat cable34P (X-Y unit) S 1
1141066_S Flat cable 14P (Micro) S 1
1141067_S Flat cable 26P (2 motor dilutor) S 1
1141068_S Analogue cable (LS-DACQ_3v0/ANALOG INPUT – S 1
OPTSENSOR_2v0/J1)
1141069_S Audio PCB cable (PC /Front Panel Audio – AUDIO- S 1
AMP_1v1/J1)
1141070_S AL cable (LS-DACQ_3v0/COM1 – ASCON_1v0/J3) S 1
1141071_S Frontpanel cable (LS-DACQ_3v0/FRONT PANEL – S 1
STARTBUT_1v0/J1)
1141072_S Speaker cable (AUDIO-AMP/J2 – Speaker) S 1
1141073_S Laser diode internal cable (Optical Unit /LASERDRV S 1
– LASERDRV_2v0/J2)
1141074_S Laser diode external cable S 1
1141075_S Pressure meter cable (LS-DACQ_3v0/PRESSURE – S 1
PRESSMEAS_1v1/J1)
1141076_S PPB power distributor cable S 1
1141077_S PPB control cable (LS-DACQ_3v0/AJ-PPB_v4.0 – S 1
PPBCON_3v1/J2)
1141078_S Reagent sensor cable S 1
1141079_S Valve block cable 1-12 S 1
1141080_S Valve block cable 13-22 S 1
1141081_S TCU 186ontroller cable S 1
1141082_S LCD cable (KAB-B0004-1000-RKTP/PBF) S 1
1141083_S Inverter cable (KAB-A0008-1000-FK – 1000 mm) S 1
1141084_S TCU tempsensor cable S 1
1141085_S PC power extender cable S 1
1141086_S Tempsensor cable S 1
1141087_S USB cable with 3 connectors S 1
1141088_S Internal USB cable S 1
1141089_S AL dock PCB S 1
1141058_S Amplifier flat cable S
1141059_S HV flatcable S
 187

PART NO PART DESCRIPTION M/S Maint. Kit Service kit (<10)

Electrical components
1141091_S Optical head, Laser module S
1141092_S Hardware block (PSU+PC+HDD) S 1
1141163_S Mainboard new version CPU S
1141118_S Hard disc drive S 1
1141093_S Aperture measure unit (assembled) S 1
1141094_S PPB1 panel S 1
1141095_S PPB2 panel S 1
1141096_S HVB board (without Inverter) S 1
1141097_S Pressure meter PCB (, PRESSMEAS 1v1) S 1
1141098_S Processor PCB (, LS-DACQ 3v0) (without DIMMPC) S 1
1141099_S PPB-CON PCB (, PPB-CON 3v1) S 1
1141001_S TCU unit (assembled) S
1141100_S DIMMPC (Quintus SW preinstalled) + heatsink S 1
1141101_S Power supply GPS-400AA 101 A (Chieftec) S 1
1141102_S Inverter S 1
1141103_S LCD S 1
1141104_S Amplifier board S 1
1141105_S HGB head S 2
1141106_S Reagent sensor 3v1 (, buffer) S 1
1141107_S WBC preheater S 1
1141108_S Temperature control board for WBC preheater S 1
1141110_S Cooling fan (inside TCU) S 1
1141111_S Peltier element for TCU S 1
1141112_S TCU control PCB (, TEMPCTRL 2v1) S
1141113_S Isolator Foil (for TO-220 transistors) S
1141114_S XY PCB (AE-XYROPTO v2.0) S 1
1141115_S Dilutor PCB DILOPT v3.1 S 1
1141116_S Start button PCB (STARTBUT_1v2) S 1
1141117_S Blood detector with cable S 1
1141064_S Micro switch cables to Sample rotor unit S 2
1141057_S Shear valve optical sensor board S 1
Mechanical components
1141018_S Shear Valve complete ( mechanic and ceramic ) S 1
1141004_S OPT5 front panel (with display) S
1141005_S Dilutor syringe (with piston) WHITE M 10
1141006_S Dilutor syringe (with piston) BLACK M 1
1141007_S Macro piston SCHOTT (2ml) M 6 4
1141008_S Cover thumb screw S 8
 188

1141009_S HGB cover S 1

1141010_S Tube adapter nr 5 for standard sample tubes S 2
1141461_S Tube adapter nr 6 for micro tubes S 1
1141011_S Display rear panel S 1
1141012_S XY (needle mechanics) unit + PCB S
1141013_S START button (transparent) S 1
1141019_S Sample rotor unit (Bob) S
1141020_S Plastic tube grip AL position S 2
1141021_S 1,6/2,3 tube adapter S 10
1141014_S Front panel latch S 2
1141015_S Instrument foot S 2
1141154_S Needle belt X direction S 1
1141155_S Needle belt Y direction S 1
1141164_S Needle motor S
Pneumatically components

1141022_S Vacuum puffer S

1141023_S Wash head M 1 5
1141025_S Dilutor unit LEFT S 1
1141026_S Dilutor unit RIGHT S 1
1141027_S Sampling needle M 1 3
1141028_S Charles Austen pump S 4
1141029_S Measuring chamber grounding block S 3
1141030_S O ring for measuring chamber M 4 8
1141031_S Measuring chamber shielding S 1
1141032_S Aperture (80um – WBC) M 3
1141033_S Aperture (70um – RBC) M 3
1141034_S OPT5 WBC chamber (assembled) S 1
1141035_S OPT5 RBC chamber (assembled) S 1
1141036_S OPT5 MIX chamber (assembled) S 1
1141037_S OPT5 Vacuum chamber (assembled) S 1
1141038_S Cone for WBC chamber v2.0 M 4
1141039_S Cone for chambers M 4
1141040_S Vacuum chamber drain connector S 3
1141041_S Reagent chamber S 2
1141042_S Reagent chamber with float inside S 2
1141043_S 2/2 valve 12VDC including coil S 4
1141044_S 3/2 valve 12VDC including coil S 4
1141119_S Valve coil only S 4
1141045_S Pump module S
1141046_S 4/1.8 Tygon tube (T3602-110) 1 m S 5
1141047_S 1,27/2,23 Tygon tube (.050 IN / .090 IN) S 5
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1141048_S 6/3 silicone tube (25gr/m) 1 m S 5

1141049_S 4/1,8 silicone tube (12gr/m) 1 m S 1 5
1141050_S 0,51x1,52 Tygon tube (Tygon S-54-HL 0,51x1,52) S 5
1141051_S 0,78/2,38 Tygon tube (.031 ID / .093 OD) S 5
1141052_S 2,3 mm T joint S 2 10
1141053_S 3,2 mm T joint S 10
1141054_S 3,2 mm Y joint S 10
1141055_S 1,6 mm T joint S 10
1141056_S Reagent tubing kit Quintus S 2
1141121_S Grease for cogwheels (Shell retinax) M 1 3
1141122_S Grease for vertical axis (Photolube) M 1 3
1141123_S Silicone grease for dilutor pistons M 1 3
1141124_S Heat conductive paste S 2
Autoloader
1141130_S Autoloader tray S 1
1141131_S Stepper motor S 1
1141132_S AL timing belt A ( long ) S 1
1141133_S AL timing belt B S 1
1141134_S O-ring S 1
1141135_S AL power switch with cable S 1
1141136_S AL status LED with cable S 1
1141137_S AL distance meter with cable S 1
1141138_S AL reflective detector S 1
1141139_S AL y plus opto switch with cable S 1
1141140_S AL y opto switch with cable S 1
1141141_S AL k opto switch with cable S 1
1141142_S AL x opto switch with cable S 1
1141143_S AL microswitch with cable S 1
1141144_S AL controller board S 1
1141145_S AL mixer opto board S 1
1141146_S AL x opto board S 1
1141147_S AL y opto board S 1
1141148_S Autoloader sample rack set ( 10 racks ) S 1
1141149_S Autoloader rack ( 1 rack ) S 1
1141150_S AL track with roller balls S 1
1141151_S AL mixer head S 1
1141152_S AL barcode reader S 1
1141156_S AL Hinge left side S
1141157_S AL Hinge right side S
1141158_S AL Lid console S
1141159_S AL timing belt b for latch S
1141160_S AL Plexiglas lid S
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13 Autoloader
Quintus Autoloader is designed to be connected to Quintus Analyzer. It is capable of receiving 100 blood
sample tubes, in 10 racks each holding 10 sample tubes. The Autoloader cannot operate on its own, and
can only be used with Quintus Analyzer.
The racks are specially designed to allow feeding the samples into the Analyzer and to allow mixing the
samples one by one.
The 10 racks are seated on a sample tray that can be moved back and forth by the Autoloader.
The Autoloader has a transparent plastic cover equipped with a safety switch feature. Opening the cover
will stop Autoloader operation to prevent injury to the operator.
The Autoloader can be powered on and off independently, but power is fed through the Analyzer.
Autoloader is not capable of independent operation.
Built-in sample mixer and bar code reader allow walk-away operation of the Autoloader.

Plexi glass
Tube cap cover
support

Sample vial
holder

Sample rack
for 10 vials

Sample rack
feeder
wheel
Power switch
Sample tray and control
Sample tray
base plate LED’s
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13.1 Parts of the Autoloader

Looking at the Autoloader from the front, when connected to the Analyzer the following parts can be
identified.

13.2 Left side

sample mixer

connector to
Quintus

Left side has the electric connector to interface to the Analyzer. Communication is realized through serial
communication. The Autoloader is connected to the low level PC of the Analyzer (see Quintus service
manual for details)
The left side has a protruding, elevated part housing the sample mixing mechanics and the bar code
reader along with the electronic board. The Autoloader has its own microcontroller.

AL microcontroller board

Bar code
Sample reader
mixer

rack feeding
wheels
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13.3 Right side

The right side contains the power switch and the status lights of the Autoloader.

Status lights

Power

Lamp colors indicate the below status:

OFF RED GREEN
Upper light power off Non initialized / OK
interrupted (cover open)
Lower light power off Error OK

13.4 Rear side

The rear side of the Autoloader holds the product ID and serial number label
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13.5 Operation
13.6 How does it work?

The Autoloader receives movement commands from the Analyzer. It is able to feed any sample to the
sampling position. It is also able to detect tube types (Vacutainer or compatible, Sarstedt Monovette or
compatible). It can also detect whether there is a cap or not on the tube.
Sample tube type detection is important so that Quintus will know how deep the sampling needle can go
into the sample tube without damaging the tube itself.
If no cap is detected the Autoloader will not mix the sample to avoid spilling blood samples into the
Autoloader.
When a sample is at the mixing position (right before the sampling position) it is mixed by gentle tilting
the sample down to -110 degrees to allow homogenous mixing. The sample is inverted 11 times by the
Autoloader before measurement.

13.7 Detailed description of the operation

13.7.1 Connecting to the ANALYZER
The Autoloader can be connected to the Analyzer at any time, either with the Analyzer on or off. If
connected when the Analyzer is ON, it is recommended to have the power switch of the Autoloader in
the OFF (0) state.
To connect the Autoloader, the metal cover plate on the Analyzer’s right side must be removed. Retain
the plate fixing screws (5pcs) for future use.
Mount the plastic frame at the Analyzers right side.
Slide the Autoloader into the opening on the side of the Analyzer – guiding rods will help mechanic
alignment and electronic connection. The Autoloader, when connected is secured by plastic lock pieces.

13.7.2 Disconnecting from the ANALYZER

Make sure the Autoloader is powered off. The lever in the back of the Autoloader lifts both plastic locker
pieces allowing the Autoloader to be pulled off from the Analyzer.

13.7.3 Power on
The Autoloader can be turned on by flipping the power switch to the “I” position. The Analyzer will either
recognize it during startup or, if the Analyzer is running, the SW will recognize the presence of the
Autoloader and enable its icon.
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13.7.4 Initializing
The Autoloader, when powered on will not move by itself. All operations are controlled by the Analyzer.
The Analyzer has a menu to control the Autoloader. To access it, double click on the Autoloader button
on top of the screen. This will access to the Autoloader menu.

Click Info button and then “Reset” button, this will initialize the Autoloader. During init, the tray will be
moved back and forth to identify home position of the tray. Use the “Reset” command when the
Autoloader gets to a state when it would not move. The SW will instruct the Autoloader to move motors
to their home positions. If there is a mechanical jam, the SW might not be able to perform the reset
action. This will be signaled by a grinding noise from the motors, but it does not damage the unit

13.7.5 Loading samples

The Autoloader can receive 100 sample vials. The 100 sample vials are loaded into 10 sample racks, each
providing space for 10 sample vials. The system can recognize vials and racks, therefore you can load the
racks in random – but this will result in longer processing time of the samples. If barcodes are present,
the Quintus will read and assign them to the results. If there are no barcodes, identifying samples and
making sure they are run as required is the responsibility of the operator.

When a sample is filled with vials, the rack has to be placed on the black tray. When loading the tray is
finished, the tray has to be put onto the Autoloader.

The Autoloader can only be operated with its cover closed. Opening the cover during operation will
interrupt sample processing. Closed state of the cover is indicated by a micro switch. The cover, when
closed pushes the metal pin of the switch down.

13.7.6 Moving the sample rack to feeding position

The Autoloader is responsible for getting specific sample vials to the sampling position. The tray can
move the racks back and forth to align them with the sampling path. There are positions for 10 sample
racks. The system identifies the rack positions as letters from “A”-“J”. “A” is the rack in the front, “J” is
the rack in the rear. During initialization the Autoloader locates the A rack position. Rack positions are
identified by small openings in the bottom of the tray support plate’s slides. A pair of opto detectors are
responsible for making sure that the specific rack is aligned with the sampling path.
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13.7.7 Recognizing sample racks

When the required rack is aligned with the sampling path (the opening towards the inside of the
analyzer) the Autoloader checks for the presence of a rack at the given position.

When the rack location is in the sample path position, an opto detector is looking for the rack. If the opto
detector cannot see the rack in position, the rack will be reported missing and will be skipped.

When the rack location is in position, and the rack is present, the rack lock is released. The rack lock
keeps the sample vial holders in the bay of the vial holders. The rack lock is opened by a small pin on the
Autoloader. When the rack slides this pin, the rack lock is lifted up and the sample vial holders are
released. Now the Autoloader’s feeding mechanics can pull the vial holders into the Analyzer one at a
time.

sample vial
holder in
mixing
Rack lock
position

Sample vial
Sample vial rack bay
holder

13.7.8 Feeding sample vials into the system

The rack lock is open, and vial holders are free to slide out of the vial bay into the Autoloader and into
the Analyzer. Two discs, each equipped with a pin grab the bottom of the vial holders. The discs are
rotating synchronously. At the same time, a latch is pushed into the sample tray support plate to avoid
accidental movement of the tray while the vial holders are inside the Autoloader. The vial holders are
pulled in one by one. As the 10 vial holders are fixed to one another by a long axis, they all move
together. When the vial holders have been released and pulled out of the vial bay, they are free to rotate
along the axis that holds them together. This is important for the mixing and barcode reading feature.

13.7.9 Recognizing vials and caps

The Autoloader is also capable of mixing vials. However, vials must be closed to avoid spilling of the
sample into the Autoloader. Presence of vials and caps are checked by opto detectors. If a vial is found
missing, its position is skipped both for mixing and sampling. If a cap is found missing, the system will
also skip both mixing and sampling.
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13.7.10 Mixing the sample and Reading the barcode

If a vial is found and is found to have a cap, the system will feed it to the mixing position. The mixing arm
will be locked around the vial, and mixing starts. Mixing is carefully tilting the vial 11 times prior to
sampling. Tilting is from vertical to -110°. Besides tilting, a rubber wheel pressed against the metal
framework and the vial ensures rotation of the sample vial along its longitudinal axis. During mixing, the
barcode scanner is powered on, and the barcode (if present) is scanned at a certain tiled position. As the
vial is being rotated by the rubber wheel, barcode scanning is made possible.

13.7.11 Feeding to sampling position

When mixing is over, and Quintus is ready to measure the sample, the sample vial is fed to the sampling
position. This position is aligned with the sampling needle inside the Quintus. When the sampling needle
is placed over the vial, two small plastic “arms” center the vial below the piercing needle of Quintus.

When sampling is over, the sample vial is fed into the Quintus’s sample bay. The sample bay prevents the
vial holders from tilting. It is a narrow bay accepting the vial holders.

13.7.12 Ejecting the Samples

When the last vial in the actual rack has been measured, the Autoloader is going to eject the vial holders
back into the rack bay. When the last vial position is inside the rack bay, the latch securing the tray is
retracted and the tray is free to bring the next sample rack to the position of the sampling path.

13.8 Communication with the analyzer

The Analyzer and the Autoloader communicate via a serial link. The user interface software is sending
commands to the DIMMPC and the DIMMPC controls and monitors AL operation.
The Autoloader needs to be connected to the Analyzer to receive power and communication commands.

13.9 Test functions in analyzer

Quintus Service menu offers AL commands to test operation. Any arbitrary sample can be moved to
mixing position, sampling position. Correct movement of racks can also be tested.
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13.10 Adjustments
13.10.1 Removing the plexi-glass cover
The cover can be removed along with the curved metal cover of the Autoloader.

Open the cover, remove the tray. Remove 3 screws from the top, 2x1 screws from the front and the rear,
and 2 screws from next to the sample tray.

Lift away the cover and the metal cover.

13.11 Removing the front cover plate of the mixer

The front cover of the sample mixer is secured with 6 screws. Pull the tray to the front to access screws.
Remove all screws fixing the front plate to the body of the Autoloader to access opto sensors and the
electronic boards.
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13.12 Removing the tray

The tray is secured against its moving mechanism with two screws. Remove these 2 screws. Now the tray
can be pulled to its outmost position.

You have to remove these screws to access the 6+4 screws that hold the tray support plate in its place.

The plate below the tray needs to be removed to access the moving mechanics.
 199

Now the tray cover plate can be lifted off.

With the tray still on, turn the Autoloader around and stand it on its rear side.

Remove the 4 screws indicated on the image below to release the slide mechanism.
 200

The tray can now be removed and you can access the timing belts beneath. When reinstalling the slide
mechanism, be careful not to cut or kink the electrical wires.
 201

13.13 Adjusting opto sensors

The Autoloader’s most common error is an X opto failure. This is usually caused by the damage of the
sensor itself. The system indicates these errors with the following error messages:

CANNOT MOVE RACK – misaligned optosensor

CANNOT REACH X – faulty optosensor

With the tray in its place but the sample mixer cover removed you can access the X sensor. This sensor is
checking for the presence of openings on the sample moving tray.

X opto – for sensing the

openings on the sample tray

(tray and mixer covers

removed)
 202

Openings for the X opto on the

bottom of the sample tray

(tray shown upside down)

Openings for the latch to lock

into

(tray shown upside down)

The X sensor board is fixed to the bottom plate with 2 screws. The screw in the front can be accessed
with a 2mm round headed allen screwdriver. The screw in the back can be accessed with the same tool
driven through a special opening in the tray mechanism.

The tip of the tool can

reach the rear screw if
the tool is driven
through the opening for
the rear screw
 203

The X opto board is responsible for sensing the correct alignment of the sample racks with the sampling
path. It has 2 opto sensors. Both sensors must see through the opening on the bottom of the tray slide.
Blocked state is signaled by the corresponding LED on. When the sensors are seeing through the holes,
both LED’s are off. The opto board must be aligned so that both opto sensors are OFF when the sample
tray is in the sampling path position.

To adjust the tray position sensing X board, move the tray so that one of the sample rack positions are
aligned with the sampling path position. Start rotating the vial holder feeding discs clockwise to push the
latch into the opening on the bottom of the tray.

Now open the two screws fixing the opto board, and move it to have the both LEDs on the X opto board
go off. When done, tighten the screws.
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13.14 Verifying the operation of the latch

The process of feeding the racks into the Analyzer is performed by two discs rotating synchronously.
There is a pin on both discs. These pins align with the openings on the bottom of the sample rack and
these feed the rack into the system one by one. To make sure that the tray does not move during the
sample vial feeding process, a latch is locked into the specific openings of the sample tray. The latch
operating wheel has 15 positions, the 0 position (latch fully retracted) is the home position for the latch.

pin
D1

vial holder
D2 feeding disc

D3 latch operating
wheel

The home position of the latch must be verified by manually turning the wheels. When the latch is in its
HOME position, D1 must be ON. When the latch operating wheel is in its END position D2 will turn ON. At
position 15, D3 will be turned ON indicating the END (15th) position of the latch operating wheel.
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13.15 Verifying the position of the rack feeder discs

Alignment of the 2 discs is also important to make sure that the pins catch the sample racks correctly. To
verify alignment, rotate the discs so that the pins are aligned parallel. Verify synchronous state by placing
e.g. a screw driver over the two pins.

„Inner” wheel

„Outer” wheel

It is possible that the inner wheel gets misaligned. In this case you will have rack moving errors. The inner
wheel can be aligned to the outer wheel in the following way:Remove the Autoloader from the Analyzer.
Turn the wheels so that the outer wheel is aligned as shown on the image above. From the Analyzer side,
you can access the inner wheel’s set screw. Open it, and align the wheel parallel with the outer wheel.
Tighten the set screw.

Be careful when moving the inner wheel. When the set screw is opened, the wheel can “fall down”
along the axis it is fixed to. Correct vertical position of the wheel must be ensured: the upper plane of
the wheel must be level, or slightly below the plastic part’s upper plane.
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13.16 Adjusting the mixer arm and its sensors

The mixer arm opto board alignment is a one step process. The arm can be move manually. To set the
HOME position, the arm must be aligned so that it is coplanar with the flat surface of the plastic vial rack
support.

Make sure that the arm and its plate is aligned as indicated in the image below. Open the screws of the
opto board. Move the board so that the upper LED comes ON. Tighten the screws.

END LED

HOME
LED

Plane of the
bottom of the
mixer arm and
the plastic
support plate of
the vial rack

The lower position of the arm has to be verified: Push the arm down as much as possible, observing the
bottom LED on the board. The arm must not get in contact with the bottom plate of the Autoloader
when the lower LED is ON.