QC vial fails

Before you move on

You are here because Run QC test failed on Measure on QC vial.

Is this not the case? Then let's reassess the situation. Is it the dilution vial that fails?

See also BactoBox® acting up?.

Only the QC test program uses error codes 4000–5999 (both inclusive).

The QC test program may also trigger other error codes.

Step by step

Follow the steps below to avoid errors during the QC test program.

1

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 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 to ensure that your BactoBox® didn't take permanent damage.

2

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.

You hear two clicks during flow cell installation. Afterwards, it should just feel slightly springy when you press the center part of the flow cell (no more click sounds).
3

Make QC vial with SBT items

Skip this step if you already use the SBT dilution vial (bundled as DV01)

Often, the issues are due to in-house or third-party consumables. E.g., DIY dilution vials and third-party empty vials.

If you use a DIY dilution vial, try to replace the syringe filter.

Use the SBT dilution vial (bundled as DV01) when you make your QC vial.

Perform a QC test again with your new QC vial.

SBT dilution vial (bundled as DV01)

Use the SBT dilution vial (bundled as DV01)

The SBT dilution vial pairs perfectly with your BactoBox®. It avoids all the pitfalls of DIY dilution vials.

The SBT dilution vial is filtered, conductivity-adjusted, and long-term stable thanks to gamma radiation sterilization.

The QC vial is for single use only

Once the liquid passes through BactoBox®, its properties may change. Trace residues of disinfection liquid from the previous cleaning cycle can lower both the conductivity and the concentration of microspheres.

Always discard the QC vial after use!

4

Replace the external filter

Replace the external filter. See Install tubing kit for details.

Perform a QC test again with your new external filter in place and a new QC vial.

5

Replace the flow cell

Replace the flow cell. See Install flow cell for details.

Perform a QC test again with your new flow cell in place and a new QC vial.

Clean the flow cell before you remove it.

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

First try the 15-min Deep clean program on your flow cell. If the issue persists, try the 10-hour Deep clean program.

6

Verify tubing kit

Check if the tubing kit is of the current version.

The current tubing kit is identified by the purple plug.

Reach out to your SBT sales representative to request a new tubing kit, if necessary.

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 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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