> 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/power-on-works-but.../program-could-not-run-to-completion.md).

# Program could not run to completion

## Before you move on

You are here because you tried to run a program (e.g., *Measure* or *Clean*) but it gave the *Program could not run to completion* error message.

Is this not the case? Then let's take a step back. [Does your BactoBox® not power on](/troubleshooting/power-on-fails.md)? [Does the *QC test* program give errors](/troubleshooting/qc-test-fails/i-get-error-40xx.md)?

See also [Troubleshooting](/troubleshooting/readme.md).

<img src="/files/EyVwPa0HWk6A7ZSVgN0G" alt="" class="gitbook-drawing">

## It says *Program could not run to completion*

You run a program and it says *Program could not run to completion* either right away or at some point during the program.

It is the same message for all programs. E.g., *Clean*, *Measure*, *QC test, Measure with low conductivity*, etc.

**This is a software issue with your BactoBox®.** In other words, a [design defect (aka a *bug*)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Software_bug) in the programming.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Update BactoBox® software

Maybe we fixed it already. [Update BactoBox® software](/best-practices/update-bactobox-r-software.md) to get the latest features and fixes.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Report the issue

Let us know about the issue so that we can fix it. [Contact our support team](/troubleshooting/contact-our-support-team/contact-our-support-team.md) and make sure to include a device data bundle.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


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