BÜHLMANN Quantum Blue Reader User manual

Quantum Blue®Reader - User Manual Version A1
Quantum Blue®Reader
User Manual

2Quantum Blue ®Reader - User Manual Version A1
Release Date: 2020-11-04
TABLE OF CONTENT
TABLE OF CONTENT
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2 General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.1 Technical Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.2 Policy Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.3 Version Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
3 Intended use of the Quantum Blue®Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
4 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
4.1 Proper Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
4.2 Electrical Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.3 Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.4 Environmental Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.5 Heat Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.6 Maintenance Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.7 Waste Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.8 Symbols on the Quantum Blue®Reader Instrument. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.9 Symbols on the Package of the Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
5 Functional Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.1 Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.2 Delivered Content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
6 Unpacking and Set-up Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
6.1 Unpacking of the Quantum Blue®Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
6.2 Setup and Connection of the Quantum Blue®Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
6.2.1 AC Power Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
7 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
7.1 Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
7.2 Hardware Installation / Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
7.3 Relocating the Quantum Blue®Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8 General Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
8.1 Powering the Quantum Blue®Reader On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
8.2 Instrument Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
8.3 First Log In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
8.4 Hard Shutdown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
8.5 Menu Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8.6 Home Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
9 Instrument Usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
9.1 The Two Modes of Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
9.2 Starting a Test in the Fail Safe Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
9.3 Starting a Test in the Fast Track Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
10 Review Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
11 System and Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
11.1 Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
11.2 Update Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
11.3 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
11.3.1 Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
11.3.2 Admin Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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TABLE OF CONTENT TABLE OF CONTENT
11.4 Menu Structure in the Admin Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
11.4.1 Date & Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
11.4.2 Manage Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
11.4.3 Delete Unsent Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
11.4.4 Export Raw Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
11.4.5 User Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
11.4.6 Update Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
11.4.7 Mode of Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
11.4.8 Manufacturer reset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
11.4.9 Communication Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Submenu Network within communication settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Submenu Connect within Communication Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Submenu Security within Communication Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
11.4.10 Shutdown Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
12. Maintenance and cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
12.1 Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
12.2 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
12.3 Device Self-Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
13. Technical and Scientific Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
14. Troubleshooting and messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
15. Technical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
15.1 Dimensions and Weight of the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
15.2 Mechanical Data and Hardware Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
15.3 Software Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
15.4 Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
15.5 Power requirements of the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
15.6 Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
15.7 Applicable Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
16. Warranty and obligations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
16.1 Product Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
16.2 Obligations of the User . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
16.3 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
17. Declaration of conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

4Quantum Blue ®Reader - User Manual Version A1
Release Date: 2020-11-04
GENERAL INFORMATION
1INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the Quantum Blue®Reader. We are confident that this product will become an
integral part of your daily work.
Rapid testing enables fast result reporting and thus provides a tool for health care professionals to support
immediate decision making. Using the wealth of experience obtained from providing reflectrometric detection
technology to thousands of customers worldwide, the specialists at BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG have
developed a new generation reader for mobile rapid test applications. The Quantum Blue®Reader is a highly
sensitive, robust, and cost-effective measurement system for lateral flow tests. This flexible and reliable
system, based on a ready-to-use concept, enables the users to easily run lateral flow tests.
This manual describes how to operate the Quantum Blue®Reader. Before using the device, it is essential that
you read this user manual carefully.
2 GENERAL INFORMATION
2.1 Technical Assistance
At BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG, we pride ourselves on the quality and availability of our technical and
scientific support. Our Customer Support Department is staffed by experienced scientists and engineers with
extensive practical and theoretical expertise in the use of BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG products.
For technical and scientific assistance regarding the Quantum Blue®products, contact your local BÜHLMANN
Laboratories AG distributor (see chapter 13. Technical and Scientific Support).
For up-to-date information about the lateral flow reader products of the Quantum Blue® Reader, visit https://
www.buhlmannlabs.ch.
2.2 Policy Statement
It is the policy of BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG to improve products as new techniques and components
become available. BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG reserves the right to change the specifications of products
at any time.
2.3 Version Management
This document is the Quantum Blue®Reader User Manual VA1_EN.
3 INTENDED USE OF THE QUANTUM BLUE®READER
The Quantum Blue®Reader is a rapid test reader for the in vitro detection and/or quantification of target
analytes on lateral flow test cassettes.
The Quantum Blue®Reader is used only in combination with BÜHLMANN lateral flow tests.
SAFETY INFORMATION

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GENERAL INFORMATION SAFETY INFORMATION
4 SAFETY INFORMATION
The instructions and safety information in this user manual must be followed to ensure safe operation of the
Quantum Blue®Reader. Please note that if the equipment is used in a manner not specified by BÜHLMANN
Laboratories AG, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
The following types of safety information appear throughout the Manual. Details are given in the format as
shown below.
The term DANGER is used to inform you about situations that could result in
personal death or serious injury.
The term WARNING is used to inform you about situations that could result in
personal injury to other persons.
The term CAUTION is used to inform you about situations that could result in
damage to the instrument or other equipment.
The term NOTICE is used to indicate information considered important but not
hazard related (e.g. security messages, maintenance and cleaning guidelines).
4.1 Proper Use
The Quantum Blue®Reader must be operated by personnel familiar with BÜHLMANN Quantum Blue® assays
and have the appropriate training.
As potentially infectious patient specimens will be measured with the Quantum Blue®Reader, BÜHLMANN
recommends to use appropriate personal safety equipment such as gloves. Patient specimens should be
handled in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) using appropriate precautions. If, despite all
precautionary measures, the Quantum Blue®Reader should come into contact with potentially infectious
material, please follow the instructions provided in chapter 12.1 Cleaning.
Improper use of the Quantum Blue®Reader may cause personal injuries or
damage to the instrument.
The Quantum Blue®Reader must be operated by qualified personnel that has
received the appropriate training.
All instrument-related interventions may only be performed by employees of
BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG.
The advice given in this manual is intended to supplement, not supersede, the
normal safety requirements prevailing in the user’s country.

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SAFETY INFORMATION
4.4 Environmental Hazards
Do not expose the Quantum Blue®Reader to direct sunlight during operation.
Protect the reader from high humidity and contact with liquids.
4.5 Heat Hazard
Do not expose the reader to excessive heat.
4.6 Maintenance Safety
Perform the maintenance as described in chapter 12.2 Maintenance.BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG charges
for repairs that are required due to incorrect handling.
4.7 Waste Disposal
Waste of tests measured with the Quantum Blue®Reader may contain certain hazardous chemicals or
contagious/bio-hazardous materials and must be collected and disposed properly in accordance with all
national, state, and local health and safety regulations and laws.
4.2 Electrical Safety
Any defects which you discover on electrical components / sub-assemblies must
be repaired without delay. Until this is done, the system, sub-assembly or item of
equipment must not be used in its faulty condition. Call your local BÜHLMANN
distributor.
Do not expose the reader to strong electromagnetic radiation. It is the
responsibility of the user to ensure that a compatible electromagnetic environment
is maintained for the instrument in order to guarantee appropriate performance.
This device fulfills the emitted interference and emitted immunity requirements of
the standard DIN EN 61326-2-6.
4.3 Environment
If the Quantum Blue®Reader is to be used in a working environment prone to dirt build-up, clean the device
regularly. For cleaning, please follow the instructions provided in chapter 12.1 Cleaning.
SAFETY INFORMATION

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SAFETY INFORMATION
4.8 Symbols on the Quantum Blue®Reader Instrument
The following symbols appear on the type plate at the rear of the Quantum Blue®Reader instrument.
Symbol Description
CE mark for Europe
In vitro diagnostic mark, device is intended to be used as an
in vitro diagnostic device
Serial number
Legal manufacturer
Date of manufacture
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
Catalog number
Caution - consult instructions before use
IP10 IP Classification
GTIN Global Trade Item Number
SAFETY INFORMATION

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4.9 Symbols on the Package of the Reader
SAFETY INFORMATION
Symbol Description
Transport and Storage
conditions
pKeep package dry!
jHandle package with care!

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Quantum Blue ®Reader - User Manual Version A1
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SAFETY INFORMATION FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
1 Touch display
2 Power button with LED
3 Drawer for lateral flow test cassette
4 Handle
5 Connector for power supply
6Type Plate (for more information refer to chapter 4.8 Symbols on the
Quantum Blue®Reader Instrument)
7 3 USB ports (type A)
8 Ethernet port (RJ-45)
5 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
5.1 Hardware
2
1
3
8
4
75
6
Figure 1 Figure 2
The drawer can be completely ejected by pushing the button at the bottom of the device (indicated in
Figure 3) while simultaneously pulling out the drawer. Beware, not to touch the white orientation point
(indicated in Figure 4) on the upper right side of the drawer.
Figure 3 Figure 4

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UNPACKING AND SET-UP PROCEDURES
6 UNPACKING AND SET-UP PROCEDURES
6.1 Unpacking of the Quantum Blue®Reader
Take out the Quantum Blue®Reader from its transport case, place it on a stable and leveled surface and
check whether it contains all items as listed in chapter 5.2 Delivered Content.
Carefully examine the instrument to make sure that it has not been damaged during the shipment. In case of
damage or if any parts are missing (refer to chapter 5.2 Delivered Content), contact immediately your local
BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG distributor.
6.2 Setup and Connection of the Quantum Blue®Reader
6.2.1 AC Power Connection
The Quantum Blue®Reader may only be used with the power supply provided with the device.
Plug the power supply cable (low voltage end) into the connector at the rear of the device (pos. 5 in chapter
5.1 Hardware). Plug the power supply cable (mains end) into a power outlet. Make sure that the cable is
plugged in properly on both sides.
Please make sure that the locally available mains voltage matches the voltage
indicated on the type plate of the Quantum Blue®Reader.
INSTALLATION
Please keep the original transport case. It is required when returning or shipping
the device.
5.2 Delivered Content
• Quantum Blue®Reader instrument
• Quick guides Fast Track Mode and Fail Safe Mode
• Instructions for the download of user manuals and additional software tools (eg. Quantum Blue®
Connect Software)
• Power supply including international connection adapter
• Cleaning/ cotton swabs
The drawer must be completely inserted into the instrument for instrument start-
up and for performing measurements.
Do not switch drawers between different Quantum Blue®Reader instruments.

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UNPACKING AND SET-UP PROCEDURES INSTALLATION
7 INSTALLATION
7.1 Requirements
The location of the Quantum Blue®Reader should be preferably on a desk or any other stable and leveled
surface with enough surrounding space in order to easily insert the test cassette or unplug the device. In case
of emergency or under abnormal operating conditions the location should at any time provide enough space
to allow the easy disconnection of the device.
The Quantum Blue®Reader is a highly sensitive and precise optical device. The result can be influenced by
vibrations e.g. if the device is placed close to vibrating machines.
The device has an internal correction for normal levels of ambient light. Highly intense light falling into the test
cassette drawer can cause serious interference with the measurement and must be avoided where possible.
7.2 Hardware Installation / Accessories
Installation of power supply options and accessories:
• External power supply: connect external power supply to power port (Pos. 5 in chapter 5.1 Hardware).
A blue LED light in the power button will indicate the connection to a power supply.
• Thermal printer: The Quantum Blue®Reader can be connected to a Dymo TM 450 label writer with
large address labels (101 x 54mm) via USB.
7.3 Relocating the Quantum Blue®Reader
The Quantum Blue®Reader is a mobile instrument that can be relocated easily. Make sure that proper
operating conditions are always met (see chapter 15. Technical Data).
Please don’t relocate or move the instrument while a measurement is running.
The reader must not be exposed to direct sunlight during operation.
Do not plug in the power supply of the DYMO printer into the Quantum Blue®
Reader.
This can cause permanent damage to the Quantum Blue®Reader.
• External Barcode Reader: An external barcode reader can be used to enter the user ID or sample ID
instead of using the on-screen keyboard. Plug the USB cable of the barcode reader into a free USB port
at the rear of the Quantum Blue®Reader (pos.7 in chapter 5.1 Hardware).
The Quantum Blue®Reader was tested in combination with the barcode reader Model Zebra DS 2208. It is
the sole responsibility of the user if alternative/other barcode reader models are used.
Please note that the thermal printer and external barcode reader are not included
with Quantum Blue®Reader and would need to be ordered separately from a
local supplier. BÜHLMANN does not supply the above described accessories.

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GENERAL OPERATION
8 GENERAL OPERATION
8.1 Powering the Quantum Blue®Reader On and Off
Switch on the device by pressing the power button (Pos. 2 Figure 1, chapter 5.1 Hardware). The device
will show a standard black screen and then switches to a boot screen. After successful initialization of all
components, the home screen is visible.
Switch off by pressing the power button for at least 1 second. The Quantum Blue®Reader will ask for
confirmation before shutting down.
Note that the blue LED will remain turned on even if the device is turned off.
8.2 Instrument Startup
During boot up, the internal self-check routine will be performed to check if the values from internal reference
standards are within the defined tolerance range. If the measured values of the internal reference standards
are outside of the tolerance range a warning message will be displayed. For additional information about this
warning message, please see chapter 12.2 Maintenance.
8.3 First Log In
The Quantum Blue®Reader will have the user management mode turned on by default. To log in, use the
default user which is pre-installed named “ADMIN” (1). The initial password is “0000” (2).
After the initial First Log In, the user has the possibility to change the administrator password and to define new
users with either «Administrator» or «Lab User» rights . The so called user management can be configured
in the menu under System/Settings/Admin Areas/User Management (see chapter 11.4.5 User Management).
2
1
8.4 Hard Shutdown
To perform a hard shutdown, the power button needs to be pushed for at least 6 seconds until the device
turns off. Afterwards, the device has to be restarted.
GENERAL OPERATION
Please make sure, that the drawer is inserted completely.

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System
Results
New Test
Log out
Startup
Authentication
Home
Info Menu
Show Event Log
Preferences
Admin Area
Brightness
Language
Communication Settings
Date & Time
Mode of Operation
Manage Data
Manufacturer Reset
User Management
Update Software
Shutdown Settings
Delete Methods
Delete Event Log
Delete Results
Export Raw Data
Delete Unsent Results
Network
Connect
Security
Maintenance
Status
Update Tests
Settings
GENERAL OPERATION GENERAL OPERATION
8.5 Menu Structure
Figure 5 shows the menu structure of the Quantum Blue®Reader. The grey shaded box indicates menus,
which are available for administrators only. For more information on administrator settings refer to chapter
11.4.5 User Management.
Figure 5
8.6 Home Screen
Once the system has started successfully, the home screen is visible. The home screen displays the three
main menus: start a new test (1), result summary (2) and system settings (3), as well as the log out function
(4) and the date and time (5).
1Button to start a new measurement
2Button to review results
3Button to view status and change settings
4Button to log off from device
5Status Bar displaying Date/Time and status symbols if applicable
1
2
4
5
3

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9 INSTRUMENT USAGE
9.1 The Two Modes of Operations
Two modes of operations are available on the Quantum Blue®Reader: Fail Safe Mode and Fast Track Mode.
INSTRUMENT USAGE
The mode of operation can be configured by users with administrator rights in
the menu under System/Settings/Admin Areas/Mode of Operation (see chapter
11. System and Settings).
The Fail Safe Mode (see chapter 9.2 Starting a Test in the Fail Safe Mode) is the default setting and will
always require the reading of the barcode card. When starting the measurement, the Quantum Blue®Reader
will first run the test-specific incubation time and then scan the test cassette.
In the Fast Track Mode (see chapter 9.3 Starting a Test in the Fast Track Mode) the desired test method can
be selected from a list of already installed test methods on the Quantum Blue®Reader. The incubation time
can be skipped and an external timer can be used instead of the internal timer included in the reader. A test
method, with the same settings, can be repeated by pressing the Repeat Test button on the screen.
The Fail Safe Mode is intended to be used for individual tests, whereas the Fast Track Mode is intended to
be used for running batches of tests.

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INSTRUMENT USAGE
Step 2:
Step 1:
The workflow starts with a screen, prompting you to insert the test barcode card.
Open the drawer located in front of the Quantum
Blue®Reader and place the barcode card into the
holder. Close the drawer and start the reading
process by pressing Read Barcode.
Remove your barcode card and press Continue
when prompted by the instructions on the screen.
Note: The reader has now loaded all method
specific settings to perform the run such as test
method, lot ID and calibration parameters.
9.2 Starting a Test in the Fail Safe Mode
Please read the instructions below carefully before starting your measurement. Make sure to apply your
sample at the appropriate time point to ensure the correct test-specific incubation time.
To start a new run, press the START NEW TEST
button on the home screen (1).
1
INSTRUMENT USAGE

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Step 4:
Step 3:
Some test methods may require a selection of
the specimen type and/or the sample dilution.
If prompted, choose your specimen type and/or
appropriate sample dilution from the submenu.
A summary window appears on the screen
displaying all test specific parameters (e.g. test
method, product ID, Lot ID, expiration date,
incubation time setting etc.)
If the test settings are correct, press Continue to
proceed to the sample entry screen.
Step 5:
EnterthesampleIDeitherviathe screen keyboard,
or via an external barcode scanner (see chapter
7.2 Hardware Installation / Accessories).
The Continue button appears if at least 3
characters are entered. Press Continue to go to
the last screen to start the measurement.
INSTRUMENT USAGE

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INSTRUMENT USAGE
Step 7:
After measurement, the result is automatically saved and displayed on the result summary screen:
You can either print the result (1) if a printer is
connected, or you can return to the home screen
(2).
Apply your sample onto the test cassette
according to the test-specific instruction for use.
Ensure that the test cassette is placed in the
correct orientation (refer to the test cassette relief
within the drawer).
Close the drawer and immediately continue by
pressing Start Measurement.
The run will now start with the test-sepcific
incubation time. Afterwards, the Quantum Blue®
Reader will automatically proceed to measure the
test cassette.
The incubation and measurement can be aborted
by pressing (X).
Step 6:
1
2
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9.3 Starting a Test in the Fast Track Mode
To start a new run, press the START NEW TEST
button on the home screen (1).
Step 1a:
The “Select Method” screen, shows all installed test methods that were previously uploaded to the reader.
Step 1b:
1
2
3
If the desired test method is selected, you proceed
to the LOT selection screen where the desired
LOT ID for your test method can be chosen (1).
If the LOT ID is missing, you can import the test
method (3) with the correct lot ID by using the
barcode card included in your test package (refer
to Fail Safe Mode, step 2).
To go one step back, tap the Go-Back button (<)
(2). Press longer to return to the home screen.
You can select an already installed test method
by pressing the corresponding button on the
screen (1).
If the desired test method is missing in the list
or no test is installed so far, press New Test /
LOT ID (3) to import a new test method from the
barcode card (refer to Fail Safe Mode, step 2).
To go one step back, tap the Go-Back button (<)
(2). Press longer to return to the home screen.
1
2
3
INSTRUMENT USAGE
1

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INSTRUMENT USAGE
Some test methods may require a selection of
the specimen type and/or the sample dilution.
If prompted, choose your specimen type and/or
appropriate sample dilution from the submenu.
Step 2:
Step 3:
On the SKIP INCUBATION screen, select whether
the incubation time of your test cassette is done
via an external timer (press YES) or whether the
incubation time should be counted down by the
reader (press NO).
Note: For some tests, the incubation time can’t
be skipped. This is defined for each test method
individually by BÜHLMANN Laboratories AG.
Step 4:
A summary window appears on the screen
displaying all test specific parameters (e.g. test
method, product ID, Lot ID, expiration date,
incubation time setting etc.)
If the test settings are correct, press Continue to
proceed to the sample entry screen.

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INSTRUMENT USAGE
Step 5:
EnterthesampleIDeitherviathe screen keyboard,
or via an external barcode scanner (see chapter
7.2 Hardware Installation / Accessories).
The Continue button appears if at least 3
characters are entered. Press Continue to go to
the last screen to start the measurement.
Apply your sample onto the test cassette
according to the test-specific instruction for use.
Ensure that the test cassette is placed in the
correct orientation (refer to the test cassette relief
within the drawer).
Close the drawer and immediately continue by
pressing Start Measurement.
The run will now start with the test-specific
incubation time. Afterwards, the Quantum Blue®
Reader will automatically proceed to measure the
test cassette.
The incubation and measurement can be aborted
by pressing (X).
Step 6a:
If SKIP INCUBATION NO was selected (= incubation time is counted down by the reader):