> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/troubleshooting/not-in-the-new-structure/flow-errors.md).

# Error about slow/fast flow

You went through [Run a QC test](/maintenance/qc-test/run-qc-test.md) and your BactoBox® setup passed.

Is this not the case? Then let's take a step back. Did the [QC test fail](broken://pages/V2GFgLqLUUKFZYukImWF)? Does your BactoBox® [not even power on](/troubleshooting/other-problems/does-not-power-on.md)?

See also [Troubleshooting](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/troubleshooting/).

<img src="https://1589625940-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FQorx08wID6YNpw8pEV0j%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-5faeada8313730143524df9f7400ceda4066e2d6%2Ffile.excalidraw%20(7)%20(1).svg?alt=media" alt="" class="gitbook-drawing">

## The measurement triggers an error about too slow/fast flow

You run the *Measure* program but it gives an error such as:

* *detected events are too slow/fast*
* *liquid moves slower than expected*
* *concentration/velocity differs between sites*

or something of that nature.

{% hint style="info" %}
Error codes **2000–2999** (both inclusive) relate to the flow paths in your BactoBox® setup.
{% endhint %}

## Step by step

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Check for leaks

Look for droplets or moisture especially near:

* The inlet and outlet of your BactoBox® (where you connect the tubing kit).
* Inside the flow cell compartment (under the flow cell cover). Remove the flow cell to see if there are droplets or moisture underneath.

See [Installation](/getting-started/installation.md) for details.

**Power off your BactoBox® if you find a leak inside the flow cell compartment**. Wipe off the liquid with a dry cloth. Wait for it to dry thoroughly. Perform a [QC test](/maintenance/qc-test.md) to ensure that your BactoBox® didn't take permanent damage.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Check that everything is correctly in place

Ensure that the tubing kit and external filter is tightly connected to your BactoBox®.

Press down on the flow cell to ensure that is properly in place. Press down *hard* to be sure.

<figure><img src="https://1589625940-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FQorx08wID6YNpw8pEV0j%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-46757932fdb10c0a43cab682520f18830fad3231%2Fflow-cell--simple-outline--click-into-place.png?alt=media" alt="" width="375"><figcaption><p>You hear two clicks during <a href="/getting-started/installation/install-flow-cell.md">flow cell installation</a>. Afterwards, it should just feel slightly springy when you press the center part of the flow cell (no more click sounds).</p></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Replace the external filter

Replace the [external filter](/item-register/individual-items/external-filter.md). See [Install tubing kit](/getting-started/installation/install-tubing-kit.md) for details.

**Perform a** [**QC test**](/maintenance/qc-test.md) **again** with your new external filter in place and a [new QC vial](/maintenance/qc-test/make-qc-vial.md).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Replace the flow cell

Replace the [flow cell](/item-register/consumables/flow-cell.md). See [Install flow cell](/getting-started/installation/install-flow-cell.md) for details.

<figure><img src="https://1589625940-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FQorx08wID6YNpw8pEV0j%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-548b9c0d915876bea00d6f64cffa204126cabc96%2Finsert-flow-cell--short.avif?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Perform a** [**QC test**](/maintenance/qc-test.md) **again** with your new flow cell in place and a [new QC vial](/maintenance/qc-test/make-qc-vial.md).

{% hint style="success" %}
[Clean](/more/how-to-guides/clean-your-setup.md) the flow cell before you remove it.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}

## What about my other flow cell that didn't work?

First try the 15-min [*Deep clean*](/more/how-to-guides/deep-clean-your-setup.md) program on your flow cell. If the issue persists, try the 10-hour *Deep clean* program.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Check your sample

Before you measure on your own sample again, make sure that you both [break up clumps and chains](/advanced/advanced-sample-preparation/break-up-clumps-and-chains.md) and [remove large particles](/advanced/advanced-sample-preparation/remove-large-particles.md). In general, it is important to [prepare your sample](/advanced/advanced-sample-preparation/prepare-your-sample.md) for use with BactoBox®.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Tried all of the above

Did you try all of the above and nothing helped?

This is a hardware issue with your BactoBox® setup. [Contact our support team](broken://pages/l8Gc9LJGCvsSLOjzDNGF) to discuss the matter further. Make sure to mention it if you found:

* A leak inside the flow cell compartment
* Sign of corrosion or deterioration inside the flow cell department
* Broken or loose inlet/outlet (where you connect the tubing kit to your BactoBox®)
* Rattling or loose components
* In general, hardware damage of any kind

If possible, include pictures of the problem. This helps us help you faster!


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