Awareness Technology Stat Fax 4200 User manual

© Awareness Technology Inc. 2008 Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Revised 2018 Rev. K
Stat Fax 4200
MICROPLATE READER
O
OP PE ER RA AT TO OR R’
’S
S M MA AN NU UA AL L
®

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Applications.............................................................................................................................. 1
1.1.1 Intended Use ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.2 Summary of the Instrument ............................................................................................... 1
1.1.3 Principles of Operation ...................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Warning Markings Inscriptions d’avertissement ...................................................................... 3
1.2.1 Safety Symbols Le Symboles de Sûreté........................................................................... 3
1.2.2 Safety Terms Terminologie de Sûreté .............................................................................. 3
1.3 Safety Precautions ................................................................................................................... 4
1.3.1 Disposal............................................................................................................................. 5
1.4 Specifications ........................................................................................................................... 6
1.5 Installation ................................................................................................................................ 8
1.5.1 General.............................................................................................................................. 8
1.5.2 Installation/Preparation...................................................................................................... 8
1.5.3 Load Paper ........................................................................................................................ 9
1.5.4 Touch Screen Description ............................................................................................... 10
1.6 Parts and Controls ................................................................................................................. 10
1.7 Checkout Procedure .............................................................................................................. 11
2. Operating Procedures ................................................................................... 12
2.1 Operating Precautions ........................................................................................................... 12
2.2 General Selections................................................................................................................. 12
2.3 Main Display Menu Options ................................................................................................... 13
2.3.1 Run Test.......................................................................................................................... 14
2.3.2 Settings ........................................................................................................................... 15
2.3.2.1 External Output....................................................................................................... 16
2.3.2.2 USB Mouse Connection ......................................................................................... 16
2.3.3 Manage Tests.................................................................................................................. 17
2.3.3.1 Multi-Test................................................................................................................ 18
2.3.4 Utilities ............................................................................................................................. 20
2.4 General Operation ................................................................................................................. 22
2.4.1 Bichromatic Differential Operation .................................................................................. 22
2.4.2 Loading and Formatting a Plate ...................................................................................... 22
2.4.2.1 Locating Controls.................................................................................................... 23
2.4.3 Reading a Plate............................................................................................................... 25
2.4.4 Unit of Measurement Codes (Unit Code) ........................................................................ 26
2.4.5 Offset Absorbance........................................................................................................... 27
2.4.6 Lamp Saver and Lamp Warmup ..................................................................................... 27
2.5 Modes of Operation ............................................................................................................... 28
2.5.1 Absorbance Mode ........................................................................................................... 30
2.5.1.1 Filter Selection........................................................................................................ 30
2.5.1.2 Blank....................................................................................................................... 31
2.5.2 Factor Mode .................................................................................................................... 31
2.5.3 Single Standard Mode..................................................................................................... 34
2.5.4 Multi-Point Modes (Point to Point, Regression and Cubic Spline) .................................. 36
2.5.4.1 - % Absorbance ...................................................................................................... 38
2.5.4.2 – Editing a Curve .................................................................................................... 39
2.5.4.3 – Select Axes.......................................................................................................... 40
2.5.4.4 – Controls ............................................................................................................... 42
2.5.5 Cut Off Mode ................................................................................................................... 43

3. Cleaning and Maintenance............................................................................ 50
3.1 Cleaning ................................................................................................................................. 50
3.1.1 Exterior ............................................................................................................................ 50
3.2 Maintenance........................................................................................................................... 50
3.2.1 Calibration and Linearity.................................................................................................. 50
3.2.2 Storage ............................................................................................................................ 51
4. Troubleshooting............................................................................................. 52
4.1 Messages and Flags .............................................................................................................. 52
4.2 Error Messages...................................................................................................................... 55
5. References...................................................................................................... 56
6. Optional Accessories .................................................................................... 57
6.1 Thermal Printer Paper............................................................................................................ 57
6.2 Dri-Dye®Check Strips............................................................................................................ 57
7. Information ..................................................................................................... 58
8. Appendix A SF_Capture ................................................................................ 59
9. Appendix B Updating Firmware.................................................................... 60
10. Appendix C Touchpad Alignment .............................................................. 60

Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Doc. 4200 Rev. K 1
1. Introduction
1.1 Applications
1.1.1 Intended Use
The Stat Fax®4200 is a compact, microprocessor-controlled, multi-purpose photometer
system designed to read and calculate the results of assays, which are read in 96 well
microplates or strip trays.
The Stat Fax®4200 may be used for in-vitro diagnostics. It is a user-programmable open
system with selectable plate formatting, alphanumeric test naming, automatic interpretation
options, duplicate well options, curve plotting and editing, flags and error messages from
which the user can create a menu of pre-programmed assays for instant recall.
Stat Fax®4200 is intended to be used as a stand-alone instrument without a PC but it has
a connection in the event a user wishes to download results. For a PC-controlled
microplate reader ask about the ChroMate TM Model 4300.
It is a general purpose instrument intended to be used by trained laboratory professionals
who are capable of selecting the appropriate features and options for each specific clinical
application. Contact your company’s instrument service provider to arrange for training if
the information provided in this manual is not sufficient for your applications.
FOR IN-VITRO DIAGNOSTIC USE
POUR L'USAGE DIAGNOSTIQUE IN VITRO
1.1.2 Summary of the Instrument
This instrument reads monochromatically (optional) or bichromatically (optional) and has
two models:
•Four-filter model (405, 450, 492, and 630 nm)
•Six-filter VIS model (405, 450, 492, 545, 600, and 630 nm)
Substitute filters in the range of 405 nm - 750 nm are available on special order models.

2 Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Doc. 4200 Rev. K
Summary of the Instrument (continued)
The Stat Fax® 4200 accepts all standard microplates. Trays containing microstrips may also
be read whether they are 12 wells in length, 8 wells or even partial strips.
Pre-programmed Modes - The basic calculations are permanently stored in
memory and include several single and multi-point equations. Provisions are
made in certain cases for reading specimens in duplicate and/or using the
mean reading in calculations. Each calculation mode is described in detail in
Section 2.5-Modes of Operation. The following calculation modes are
offered: Factor, Single Standard, Point to Point, Regression, Cubic Spline,
and Cut Off.
User-programmable Memory
The Stat Fax®4200 Microplate Reader’s software allows the operator to create, edit and
store assays. Standard curves are also stored in this memory. Test protocols remain
stored until either changed or deleted by the user.
1.1.3 Principles of Operation
The Stat Fax®4200 Microplate Reader’s optical system provides an economical and low
maintenance design which reads 8 wells simultaneously. A 96 well plate can be read and
printed in the absorbance mode in approximately twenty seconds.
Light from a lamp installed in a sealed light-tight compartment is filtered using a rotating
filter wheel. The filtered light is then divided into 8 channels using a fiber optic bundle.
The plate carrier precisely positions each row of 8 wells into the optical path for reading.
Light passing through the 8 wells is directed to 8 photo-detectors.
The filter wheel moves to a second position to read the 8 wells at a second wavelength.
Using bichromatic differential absorbance values corrects for optical imperfections in the
plastic wells and removes the effects of meniscus and turbidity.
The photo-detectors generate electronic signals which are amplified and interpreted by the
instrument circuitry.

Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Doc. 4200 Rev. K 3
1.2 Warning Markings Inscriptions d’avertissement
1.2.1 Safety Symbols Le Symboles de Sûreté
Symbols that may appear on the product:
Les symboles de sûreté peuvent apparaitre sur le produit:
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
Protective Ground
La Terre Electrique
CAUTION
L’ATTENTION
BIOHAZARD
BIOHAZARD
Risk of Shock
Risque de Choc
(Earth) Terminal
Prise de Terre
Refer to Manual
Se Rapportent a
Manuel
Risk of Infection
Risque d’infection
1.2.2 Safety Terms Terminologie de Sûreté
These terms may appear on the product: Les marques sur le produit:
These terms may appear in this manual: Les marques dans l’opérateur manuel:
DANGER
DANGER Le “de marque:
DANGER”
Indicates an injury immediately accessible as you read this marking
Indique le risque immédiat de dommages (assessible tandis que vous
lisez la marque)
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT! Le “de
marque: WARNING”
WARNING statements identify conditions or practices that could
result in injury or loss of life. WARNING indicates an injury hazard not
immediately accessible as you read this marking.
Ces rapports identifient les conditions ou les pratiques qui pourraient
avoir comme conséquence les dommages ou les pertes humaines.
CAUTION
L’ATTENTION “Le de marque:
CAUTION”
CAUTION statements identify conditions or practices that could result
in damage to this product or other property.
Ces rapports identifient les conditions ou les pratiques qui pourraient
avoir comme conséquence les dommages a ce produit ou a toute
autre propriété.
BIOHAZARD
BIOHAZARDS are biological agents that can cause disease in
humans. Lab workers handling potentially infectious materials must
use universal precautions to reduce the risk of exposure to these
agents.

4 Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Doc. 4200 Rev. K
1.3 Safety Precautions
To assure operator safety and prolong the life of your instrument, carefully follow all instructions outlined
below.
Read Instructions Take time to read this manual carefully before using this instrument. Review
the following safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent damage to this
instrument or any products connected to it. To avoid potential hazards, use this
instrument only as specified. For best results, familiarize yourself with the
instrument and its capabilities before attempting any clinical diagnostic tests.
Refer any questions to your instrument service provider.
Servicing There are no user-serviceable parts inside the instrument. Refer servicing to
qualified service personnel. Use only factory-authorized parts. Failure to do so
may void the warranty.
Wear Protective
Apparel
Many diagnostic assays utilize materials that are potential biohazards.
WARNING: Always wear protective apparel and eye protection while using this
instrument.
Follow Operating
Instructions
WARNING: Do not use this instrument in a manner not specified by the
manual, or the protection provided by the instrument may be impaired.
Use Proper Power
Supply
WARNING: Use only the power supply specified for this product and certified
for the country of use.
Observe All Terminal
Ratings
WARNING: To avoid fire or shock hazard, observe all ratings and markings on
the instrument. Consult this manual for further ratings information before
making connections to the instrument.
Install as Directed This instrument should be installed on a sturdy, level surface capable of safely
supporting the instrument’s weight 12 lbs (5.4kg). The mounting surface should
be free of vibrations.
Provide Proper
Ventilation
Refer to the installation instructions for details on installing the product so it has
proper ventilation. The instrument should be surrounded by the following
clearances: 10cm around perimeter of unit, 10cm on top, 1.27cm bottom (1/2”).
Do Not Operate
Without Protective
Covers
WARNING: Do not operate this instrument with covers and panels removed.
Avoid Exposed
Circuitry
WARNING: Do not touch exposed connections and components when power is
present.
Avoid Excessive Dust
Do not operate in an area with excessive dust.
Do Not Operate With
Suspected Failures
WARNING: If you suspect there is damage to this instrument, have it inspected
by a qualified service person.
Do Not Operate in
Wet/Damp Conditions
WARNING: Do not operate instrument in wet/damp conditions.
Do Not Operate In An
Explosive Atmosphere
WARNING: Do not operate instrument in an explosive atmosphere.
Operating Precautions Be sure to run a sufficient number of controls in each assay. If controls are not
within their acceptable limits, disregard test results.
Keep Instrument
Surfaces Clean and
Dry
CAUTION: Solvents such as acetone or paint thinner will damage the
instrument.
√Do not use solvents to clean the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners; the display
overlay is liquid-resistant, but easily scratched.
√Clean the exterior of the instrument with a soft cloth using plain water. If
needed, a mild all-purpose or nonabrasive cleaner may be used.
√Use as a disinfectant a 10% solution of chlorine bleach (5.25% Sodium
Hypochlorite) or 70% isopropyl alcohol.
√Take special care not to spill liquid inside the instrument

Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Doc. 4200 Rev. K 5
CAUTION! L’ATTENTION!
WARNING: If any materials are overturned during operation,
immediately set the power switch to OFF. This material should be
treated as potentially biohazardous. Appropriate cleanup and disposal
of biohazardous waste should be used.
Avertissement! Lors du fonctionnement, si on renverse des matériaux,
coupez immédiatement le courant. Placez le commutateur électrique a
AU LOIN(0). Traitez le matériel comme biohazardous, utilisant
approprie nettoient et des méthodes de disposition.
1.3.1 Disposal
Dispose of according to local regulations.
Before the instrument is removed from the laboratory for disposal or servicing, it must be
decontaminated.
Decontamination should be performed by a well-trained authorized person, observing all
necessary safety precautions. Instruments to be returned must be accompanied by a
decontamination certificate completed by the responsible laboratory manager. If a
decontamination certificate is not supplied, the returning laboratory will be responsible for
charges resulting from non-acceptance of the instrument by the servicing center or from
any authority’s intervention.
CAUTION! L’ATTENTION!
Caution: Treat all components during use and disposal as you would any
biohazardous material.
L’Attention: Utiliser et disposer des matériaux de la même manière que vous
utilisé et disposer des matières infectieuses.

6 Stat Fax®4200 Operator’s Manual Doc. 4200 Rev. K
1.4 Specifications
Photometric
Linear Measurement Range: ..................................... 0.0 to 4.0 Absorbance Units (A)
Photometric Accuracy: ............................................... +/- (1% +/- 0.010) 0.0 through 1.5 ABS
+/- (2% +/- 0.010) 1.5 through 3.0 ABS
Stability:...................................................................... Drift of no more than 0.005A in 8 hours
Light Source: .............................................................. Halogen lamp with lamp saver feature
Standard Wavelengths:.............................................. 405, 450, 492, and 630nm. 6-filter: 405,
450, 492, 545, 600, and 630nm. Filter
options from 405nm to 700nm.
Filter Type: ................................................................. IAD hardcoat interference, 10nm half
bandpass
Vessel:........................................................................ Standard 96-well microplates or strip
trays
Electronic
Display:....................................................................... Interactive touch screen 4.5”x3.5”
(14.5cm) LCD color graphic display
Printer:........................................................................ Thermal 64 characters per line, plus
graphics
Power Requirements:................................................. 100-240V AC, 1.2A, 50-60Hz (universal
input, auto sensing)
Microprocessor:.......................................................... eZ80, 64K EEPROM
Memory: ..................................................................... 2MB Flash Memory, 1MB RAM Memory
Interface: .................................................................... USB mouse; USB port used for thumb
drive interface for firmware updates
(mouse not included; thumb drive not
included)