Drucker Diagnostics QBC STAR User manual

QBC STAR
TM
System Operator’s Manual
Fast, Simple CBC Analysis
Designed for the Point of Care
Document Number: 6000-300-000
Revision J
200 Shady Lane, Suite 170, Philipsburg, PA 16866 U.S.A. | [phone] | www.druckerdiagnostics.com

QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
6000-300-000 ii
Drucker Diagnostics, QBC STAR, are registered trademarks of Drucker Diagnostics Inc.
Vacutainer is a registered trademark of BD.
© Copyright Drucker Diagnostics Inc, 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmit-
ted, transcribed, stored in retrieval systems, or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual, or otherwise, without the prior written permission
of Drucker Diagnostics Inc, 168 Bradford Dr. Port Matilda, PA, 16870, United States of America.
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The QBC STAR complies with the emission and immunity requirements described in section 9.103 of the IEC 61326 series.
This equipment has been designed and tested to CISPR 11 Class A. In a domestic environment it may cause radio
interference, in which case, you may need to take measures to mitigate the interference.
The electromagnetic environment should be evaluated prior to operation of the QBC STAR.
Do not use this device in close proximity to sources of strong electromagnetic radiation e.g. unshielded intentional RF
sources, as these may interfere with the proper operation.
IVD
INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF WEEE BY USERS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
This product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, it is the user’s responsibility to dispose of their waste
equipment by handing it over to a designated collection point for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The
separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help to conserve natural resources and
ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment. For more information about where you
can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city ofce, your household waste disposal service, or
where you purchased the product.
EMERGO EUROPE
Prinsessegracht 20
2514 AP The Hague
The Netherlands

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Preface
Contents
1 – Introduction............................................................................................................ 1–1
Intended Use...................................................................................................................................... 1–1
Principles of the Test.......................................................................................................................... 1–1
System Overview ............................................................................................................................... 1–2
QBC STAR Blood Collection Tubes ......................................................................................... 1–2
QBC STAR Instrument ............................................................................................................. 1–3
Instrument Self-Testing and Calibration............................................................................................. 1–4
Manual Structure ............................................................................................................................... 1–5
Getting Started .................................................................................................................................. 1–5
Use of this Manual ............................................................................................................................. 1–5
Conventions....................................................................................................................................... 1–6
Symbols Used on the Equipment ............................................................................................ 1–6
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings ............................................................................................... 1–6
Summary of Warnings and Cautions ....................................................................................... 1–7
2 – Installation and Setup............................................................................................ 2–1
Unpacking and Setup ........................................................................................................................ 2–1
Electrical Connection......................................................................................................................... 2–1
QBC STAR Specifications.................................................................................................................. 2–2
External Connections......................................................................................................................... 2–4
Printer Installation .............................................................................................................................. 2–5
Upgrading the Software..................................................................................................................... 2–6
System Setup and Utilities................................................................................................................. 2–6
To Enter Setup Mode ............................................................................................................... 2–6
LCD Contrast ........................................................................................................................... 2–7
Date and Time.......................................................................................................................... 2–7
Internal Printer.......................................................................................................................... 2–8
External Printer......................................................................................................................... 2–8
Support .................................................................................................................................... 2–8
Set Language ........................................................................................................................... 2–9
Units......................................................................................................................................... 2–9
Shipping Prep........................................................................................................................... 2–9
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QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
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Contents
3 – Controls and Indicators......................................................................................... 3–1
General Discussion ............................................................................................................................ 3–1
Power Switch..................................................................................................................................... 3–1
“STAR” Button ................................................................................................................................... 3–2
Door Release Latch ........................................................................................................................... 3–2
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) .............................................................................................................. 3–2
Internal Printer ................................................................................................................................... 3–3
Paper Release Lever ................................................................................................................ 3–3
Manual Advance Wheel............................................................................................................ 3–3
Setup Keypad .................................................................................................................................... 3–4
ESC Key ................................................................................................................................... 3–4
5Key ................................................................................................................................... 3–4
6 Key ................................................................................................................................... 3–4
Key ................................................................................................................................... 3–4
4 – Operation ............................................................................................................... 4–1
Summary of Operation Steps ............................................................................................................ 4–1
Turn Instrument Power On ....................................................................................................... 4–2
Prepare the QBC STAR Tube ................................................................................................... 4–2
Mix the Tube............................................................................................................................. 4–4
Tilt the Tube.............................................................................................................................. 4–5
Cap the Tube............................................................................................................................ 4–5
Insert the Tube Into the Instrument .......................................................................................... 4–6
Close the Instrument Door ....................................................................................................... 4–6
Start the Test ........................................................................................................................... 4–7
Rerunning Tubes ...................................................................................................................... 4–7
Printing of Results.................................................................................................................... 4–8
Tube Disposal ........................................................................................................................ 4–10
Power Down........................................................................................................................... 4–10
Stopping the Centrifuge................................................................................................................... 4–10
Emergency Door Unlock.................................................................................................................. 4–10
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Preface
Contents
5 – Performance and Limitations................................................................................ 5–1
Operating Ranges.............................................................................................................................. 5–1
Precision ............................................................................................................................................ 5–1
Accuracy ............................................................................................................................................ 5–2
Interfering Substances....................................................................................................................... 5–3
Limitations.......................................................................................................................................... 5–4
Expected Values ................................................................................................................................ 5–4
Controls ............................................................................................................................................. 5–5
Internal Quality Control ............................................................................................................ 5–5
Internal Electronic Quality Control Label.................................................................................. 5–5
External Liquid Controls........................................................................................................... 5–6
Proficiency Tests................................................................................................................................ 5–6
6 – Maintenance .......................................................................................................... 6–1
Cleaning............................................................................................................................................. 6–1
Disinfection ........................................................................................................................................ 6–1
Replacing Printer Paper..................................................................................................................... 6–2
7 – Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................... 7–1
General Problems .............................................................................................................................. 7–1
System Error Codes........................................................................................................................... 7–2
Tube Error Codes............................................................................................................................... 7–6
8 – Appendices............................................................................................................ 8–1
Appendix A – Limited Warranty .........................................................................................................A–1
Appendix B – Parts and Accessories.................................................................................................B–1
Appendix C – Software Upgrade Log............................................................................................... C–1
Appendix D – Contact........................................................................................................................D–1
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QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
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Contents
E – Blood Collection and Handling.............................................................................E–1
General Comments............................................................................................................................E–1
Universal Precautions for Specimen Handling ..................................................................................E–1
Venous Blood Collection (Venipuncture)............................................................................................E–2
Supplies ...................................................................................................................................E–2
Procedure.................................................................................................................................E–2
Collecting Multiple Specimens from a Single Venipuncture ....................................................E–3
Areas to Avoid When Drawing Venous Specimens..................................................................E–3
Errors to Avoid in Venous Blood Collection .............................................................................E–4
Capillary Blood Collection .................................................................................................................E–4
Supplies ...................................................................................................................................E–4
Procedure.................................................................................................................................E–4
Avoiding Hemolysis During Capillary Blood Collection............................................................E–5
F – Bibliography...........................................................................................................F–1
G – Glossary ............................................................................................................... G–1
Figures
Figure Description Page
1 QBC STAR Blood Collection Tube..................................................................................... 1–2
2 QBC STAR Instrument ....................................................................................................... 1–3
3 Symbols Used on the QBC STAR Instrument (rear) .......................................................... 1–6
4 External Connections ........................................................................................................ 2–5
5 QBC STAR Menu, Options ................................................................................................ 2-7
6 QBC STAR Menu, Date & Time ......................................................................................... 2-8
7 Power Switch..................................................................................................................... 3–1
8 QBC STAR Controls and Indicators................................................................................... 3–2
9 Printer Controls.................................................................................................................. 3–3
10 Setup Keypad .................................................................................................................... 3–4
11 Sample Vial........................................................................................................................ 4–3
12 Inverting the Sample Vial ................................................................................................... 4–3
13 Filling a Tube from Venous Blood ...................................................................................... 4–3
14 Filling a Tube from Capillary Blood.................................................................................... 4–4
15 Mixing the Tube ................................................................................................................. 4–4
16 Tilting the Tube .................................................................................................................. 4–5
17 Uncapping the Tube .......................................................................................................... 4–5
18 Seating the Cap and Float................................................................................................. 4–5
19 Inserting the Tube into the Instrument............................................................................... 4–6
20 Sample Results Printout .................................................................................................... 4–9
21 Sample Results Readout ................................................................................................... 4–9
22 Door Unlatch Access Hole............................................................................................... 4–11
23 Replacing Printer Paper..................................................................................................... 6–2
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1 – Introduction
Intended Use
The QBC STAR™ Centrifugal Hematology System provides a diagnostic hematology profile on venous
or capillary blood providing values for:
• Hematocrit
• Hemoglobin
• Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)
• Platelet count
• White blood cell count
• Granulocyte count (% and number)
• Lymphocyte/monocyte count (% and number)
Principles of the Test
It has been known for many years that the grayish-white layer (buffy coat) that appears above the red
blood cells in a centrifuged hematocrit tube contains packed layers of leukocytes (white blood cells)
and thrombocytes (platelets)1-5. The QBC STAR Centrifugal Hematology System uses technologies that
make it possible to quantify the buffy coat cells.
When the QBC STAR tube is filled with blood and placed into the QBC STAR instrument, the tube is
spun at a high rate of speed causing the different types of cells in the blood to separate into layers or
bands from the most dense to the least dense. The QBC STAR System uses a special tube designed
to enhance the natural separation properties of a whole blood sample when it is centrifuged. A special
coating in the QBC STAR tube stains the two white blood cell populations (granulocytes appear orange-
yellow and lymphocytes/monocytes appear green) and the platelet layer (platelets appear yellow-orange).
The ability to quantify the cells is also enhanced by the insertion of a precision plastic float into the QBC
STAR tube that mechanically expands the buffy coat layers. The hematocrit, white blood cell counts,
and platelet count are directly measured from the cell layers. The float, whose density approximates the
buffy coat cells, will also penetrate the red blood cell layer. The QBC STAR hemoglobin measurement
is directly related to the density of the red blood cells, and is based on the depth of penetration of the
float into the red blood cell layer. Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) is electroni-
cally calculated using the standard formula [(HGB / HCT) * 100]6-7.
The QBC STAR tube is also internally coated with anticoagulants that allow collection of capillary blood
directly from a skin puncture site.
The QBC STAR System is intended for in vitro diagnostic use.
WARNING
CAREFULLY OBSERVE ALL WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THIS
MANUAL AND ON LABELING OF QBC STAR TUBES CONCERNING
THE SAFE HANDLING OF BLOOD AND BLOOD-DERIVED PRODUCTS.
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QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
System Overview
The QBC STAR Hematology System is a self-contained, whole blood, automated hematology system.
Reported results include hematocrit, hemoglobin, total white blood cell count, combined lymphocyte
and monocyte count, granulocyte count, platelet count, and MCHC. The test can be performed from
either venous or capillary blood specimens. The system is factory preset and user calibration is NOT
required. The system is powered by a universal voltage external power supply that plugs directly into
an AC power source.
The QBC STAR Hematology System performs all tests using the QBC STAR Tube. The QBC STAR
Tube is described below. When the QBC STAR Tube is placed into the instrument, it is automatically
centrifuged and analyzed. The results are computed, displayed, and printed on the internal printer.
QBC STAR Blood Collection Tubes
The QBC STAR Tube is a two-component device. The tube assembly represents the first component.
It consists of a precision glass QBC Tube and the plastic sleeve that serves as a carrier for the tube. A
cap and float assembly comprise the second component. The float expands the buffy coat region by
a factor of ten. It does this by reducing the cross sectional area of the tube.
The QBC STAR Tube is preassembled and consists of the following components :
• 3” long precision bore glass tube with dried coatings of acridine orange, heparin, K2EDTA,
potassium oxalate, monoclonal antibody and other reagents
• A vented plug at the end of the tube
• Protective plastic sleeve
Figure 1 – QBC STAR Blood Collection Tube
Tubes are filled by capillary action with 65 to 75 µL of whole blood. This is the volume when the tube
is filled between the 2 fill lines marked on the QBC STAR Tube. The blood can come directly from a
fingerstick or from a lavender top EDTA anticoagulant only. The plug has a vent allowing air to escape
during filling of the tube. The vent closes off when the tube is capped.
After the tube assembly is filled with blood, the blood is mixed and the cap assembly is placed on the
tube. The cap consists of the following components:
• A precision molded plastic float
• A float holder
• The cap
3˝ Glass Tube
Fill Lines Vented Plug
Carrier
(Plastic Sleeve)
Acridine Orange
and other
Reagents Cap Assembly
w/ Float
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1 – Introduction
Placing the cap on the tube performs three actions simultaneously:
• Seals the tube protective plastic sleeve
• Inserts the float into the QBC STAR tube
• Closes the air vent
The density of the float is matched to the density of the buffy coat so that it centers itself in that region.
If a tube breaks during centrifugation, blood and glass are fully contained within the capped tube
protective plastic sleeve. This design provides a high degree of user and instrument protection from
exposure to blood and aerosols.
QBC STAR Instrument
The QBC STAR Instrument (Figure 2) is a compact, portable, centrifugal hematology analyzer. The instru-
ment contains a single tube centrifuge for sample mixing and for separating the blood into the various
cell populations. Analysis of the sample occurs in the centrifuge rotor after the centrifuge is finished.
A single filled QBC STAR Tube is placed into the rotor, the door is closed, and the “STAR” button
pressed to start the test process. The centrifuge cycle mixes and then separates the blood into distinct
cell layers. The instrument initially spins slowly for up to 30 seconds allowing the blood in the tube to
mix. Once this initial mixing is done, the centrifuge accelerates to a higher speed which is maintained
for 4.75 minutes. This stage separates the blood cell populations into distinct packed cell bands. After
the cell populations have been separated, the centrifuge decelerates to measure the band lengths.
Analysis of the tube occurs at the illumination/read station. This station consists of an LED light source
and optical imaging system.
Figure 2 – QBC STAR Instrument
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QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
Hematological results are shown on the Liquid Crystal Display. Results are also automatically printed
by the internal thermal printer onto a 2.25-inch paper tape.
The instrument contains the following subsystems:
• The centrifuge for mixing and separating the blood sample
• An embedded microprocessor for machine control, blood sample analysis, and communications
• An internal printer for printing results
• A Liquid Crystal Display to show results, prompts, and messages
• USB ports for communication with optional external devices such as a keyboard, barcode scan-
ner, or external printer
• An ethernet connection for use with Laboratory Information Systems
Instrument Self-Testing and Calibration
When the instument is powered on and the door is closed, the system software performs a self-test
to verify proper operation (Or once every 8 hours if power is left on continuously). The self-test checks
such things as: centrifuge motor at various speeds, emission filter assembly, optics assembly, light
source, timing control, optical clarity and focus, internal printer, rotor timing, and setup keypad.
The instrument runs a built-in calibration check every time a sample is processed. Sample integrity
checks include: statistical matching of bandlengths, ratios and absolute values for signal levels, ratios
that are used to evaluate the quality of interfaces, measurement of float length, verification of optics
and sensors, measurement and evaluation of sample fill volume. Additional tests performed as part
of each assay cycle include centrifuge speed and electro-optical verification. Results are reported on
tube tests only if all verification and integrity tests pass.
The power-on self-test and sample integrity tests provide verification of instrument parameters includ-
ing but not limited to timing, speed, disposable integrity, and reagent stability.
In addition to these checks, the system monitors the temperature inside and outside the instrument
before and during each test. The system will allow operation of the instrument if the temperature is
higher than 32° C, but with limited reports. If the sample temperature exceeds 45° C, the unit will be-
come too hot to operate.
Since the QBC STAR instrument contains a centrifuge, centrifuge speed measurements are verified
each time a sample is processed.
If any part of the self-testing or calibration process fails, a message is displayed. Confirmation of the
success of self-tests is provided by the “Ready” message. In addition, each results printout indicates
the outcome of electronic QC.
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1 – Introduction
Manual Structure
This Operator’s manual contains the following sections:
Section 1 – Introduction – provides an overview of the QBC STAR hematology system, its major
components, and its uses in the laboratory. An overview of this manual’s structure and con-
ventions is also included.
Section 2 – Installation and Setup – gives specifications for installation of the QBC STAR system
and instructions for instrument installation and setup.
Section 3 – Controls and Indicators – explains the use and meaning of all controls and indicators
of the system.
Section 4 – Operation – provides instructions for routine operation.
Section 5 – Performance and Limitations – provides information on instrument performance, such
as operating ranges, precision, accuracy, interfering substances, expected values, etc.
Section 6 – Maintenance – explains all user system maintenance.
Section 7 – Troubleshooting – provides a convenient guide identifying errors and suggesting cor-
rective actions.
Section 8 – The Appendices contain supplemental information, such as warranty, list of parts and
accessories, a software update form, a listing of national contacts, specimen collection, and
bibliography, and the Glossary explains several terms used in this manual, as well as abreviations.
Getting Started
The QBC STAR system has been designed and tested for ease of use. However, before you begin to
use the instrument, you will find it advantageous to familiarize yourself with the material in this manual,
especially:
• Be sure to read the Summary of Warnings and Cautions on page 1–7.
• Refer to the material in Section 2 – Installation and Setup for information on where to place the
instrument and how to set it up for operation.
• Read Section 3 – Controls and Indicators. It explains the lights, readouts, buttons, switches,
etc. that are found on the instrument.
• Read Section 4 – Operation. It tells you how to perform routine system operations.
Use of this Manual
This Operator’s manual is designed as a reference tool for personnel who operate the QBC STAR
Hematology System on a regular basis. Every attempt has been made to include all information which
would be needed during normal use and maintenance of the system. Should a question arise which is
not answered in this manual, please refer to appendix D for information on how to contact us.
You can send in your comments or recommendations on this Operator’s manual by sending an e-mail
to [email protected]
Other documentation that may be of interest includes:
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QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
QBC STAR Tube Package Insert – This document contains important information on specimen prepa-
ration and the use, storage, and limitations of the tubes. A package insert is included with each box
of tubes, and is available upon request from Drucker Diagnostics, or may be downloaded from the
Drucker Diagnostics website (www.druckerdiagnostics.com)
QBC STAR Tube Quick Reference Guide – This document contains a summary of steps for preparing
venous and capillary specimens and testing them on the QBC STAR instrument.
Conventions
Symbols Used on the Equipment
The following symbol appears on the QBC STAR instrument
Figure 3 – Warning symbol Used on the QBC STAR Instrument
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
Throughout this manual, important information is presented in boxes offset from the regular text, and
is labeled as either a NOTE, CAUTION, or WARNING. These messages are formatted as shown below
and bear the following meaning:
NOTE
Important information about system use worthy of
special attention is presented as a NOTE.
CAUTION
Information on an activity that potentially could cause damage to the
instrument or system is presented as a CAUTION.
WARNING
INFORMATION ON AN ACTIVITY THAT POTENTIALLY COULD CAUSE
INJURY TO THE USER IS PRESENTED AS A WARNING.
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1 – Introduction
Summary of Warnings and Cautions
Carefully observe all warnings and precautions in this manual and on labeling of QBC STAR tubes
concerning the safe handling of blood and blood-derived products.
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the
equipment may be impaired.
Do not, under any circumstances, remove the ground prong from the instrument power plug.
Blood and body fluids may contain the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immu-
nodeficiency virus (HIV), or other disease-causing agents. Handle all patient specimens as potential
biohazards capable of transmitting infection. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including
laboratory gloves, when collecting, handling, and processing blood and body fluids.
In addition to wearing gloves, the use of disposable lab coats or gowns and protective glasses or
goggles is recommended when working around the instrument.
ACRIDINE ORANGE REAGENT MAY BE TOXIC; DO NOT INGEST. AVOID CONTACT WITH SKIN, EYES,
AND CLOTHING.
If a tube breaks in the unit, carefully remove the tube with a hemostat or other device, using puncture
resistant utility gloves. CONTACT DRUCKER TECHNICAL SERVICES FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
Do not handle the QBC STAR tube by the glass collection end of the tube.
Do not use any QBC STAR tube if any part of the carrier or tube is chipped or cracked.
The user should not perform any servicing except as specifically stated in this manual. Refer other
problems to trained personnel, or return the instrument to Drucker Diagnostics for repair.
Turn instrument power off and unplug the power cord before servicing.
Do not immerse the QBC STAR instrument in water or other liquid.
Do not attempt to move the instrument rotor by hand. Moving the rotor manually can cause damage
to the instrument.
Ensure the device is turned off prior to connecting the external power supply to a device or AC outlet.
Do not attempt to insert your hand or any other object in the cavity located on the base of the instru-
ment while in operation.
Do not lift or turn the instrument on its back or side while it is plugged in as damage may occur.
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2 – Installation and Setup
Unpacking and Setup
The QBC STAR instrument weighs approximately 19 pounds. Use caution when lifting and moving the
instrument.
Carefully unpack the QBC STAR instrument, noting any damage to the shipping carton. If damage is
observed, notify the carrier immediately. After unpacking, remove the instrument from the plastic bag,
and place it on a level, stable, working surface.
An operator’s clearance envelope while running the tube should be marked 11.8 in. (300 mm) from each
side of the unit. The operator should not stand within the clearance envelope longer than necessary
for operational purposes.
Proceed with electrical connection, described below.
Electrical Connection
• Connect the female end of the power pack to the back of the QBC STAR instrument (see Figure 4).
• Connect the male end of the power cord to the main AC power source. To avoid electrical shock,
connect the power cord only to an approved power source such as a 3-wire grounded receptacle.
If a 2-wire receptacle is all that is present, have it replaced with a properly grounded 3-wire receptacle
in accordance with the National Electrical Code.
• Connect female end of power cord to male end of power pack.
Should the power cord or plug become cracked, frayed, broken or otherwise damaged, replace
them immediately (see Appendix B for part number).
Never attempt to override electrical safety interlocks of the instrument.
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WARNINGS
IF THE EQUIPMENT IS USED IN A MANNER NOT SPECIFIED BY THE
MANUFACTURER, THE PROTECTION PROVIDED BY THE
EQUIPMENT MAY BE IMPAIRED.
DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, REMOVE THE GROUND
PRONG FROM THE INSTRUMENT POWER PLUG.

QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
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QBC STAR Specications
Physical Specications
Height (loading door open) 16.3 in (41.4 cm)
Width 16 in (40.6 cm)
Depth 16.3 in (41.4 cm)
Weight 19 lbs (8.6 kg)
Clearance 2 in (5.1 cm)
Noise < 70 dB @ 3 ft
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Electrical Specications for the Power Pack
Input Voltage 100 – 240 VAC
Frequency 50 – 60 Hz
Current Output 5.21 A (Peak)
Power Output 250 Watts

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2 – Installation and Setup
Environmental Specications
Non-Operating Storage
Temperature –20 °C – 50 °C
Humidity 10% – 95% non-condensing
Operating
Temperature
16 °C – 32 °C unrestricted (at > 32 °C use
may be limited by instrument temperature shut-
down or some results may be suppressed)
Humidity 10% – 95% non-condensing
Surface Inclination 10º any direction without restraint; 45º any
direction with restraint
Decontamination
Surface 10% dilution of household bleach solution
IEC 664 Pollution Degree Category 2
IEC 663 Installation Category II
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QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
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Reporting Ranges
Parameter Lower Limit Upper Limit
Hematocrit (Hct) 15% 65%
Hemoglobin (Hgb) 5.0 g/dL 20.0 g/dL
MCHC 25.0 g/dL 37.3 g/dL
White Blood Cells (WBC) 1.6 x 109/L 99.9 x 109/L
Granulocytes 0.8 x 109/L 70.0 x 109/L
% Granulocytes 1% 99%
Lymph/Mono 0.8 x 109/L 99.9 x 109/L
% Lymph/Mono 1% 99%
Platelets 20 x 109/L 999 x 109/L
External Connections
The following external connections are located on the rear of the QBC STAR instrument, and are shown in Figure 4:
• DC power input
• USB Port (3x) for external printer, keyboard, USB memory stick, or scanner
• Ethernet Port
You can attach a keyboard, USB memory stick, barcode scanner, and a full-size external printer (for print-
ing results on standard letter or A4 size paper) via the USB ports in the back of the QBC STAR instrument.
You can also leave the internal instrument printer enabled even if you attach an external printer. If you do,
results print on the internal printer and the external printer at the same time.
For information on what makes and models of printers can be used, contact Drucker Diagnostics Technical
Support or visit www.druckerdiagnostics.com.
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2 – Installation and Setup
Figure 4 – External Connections
How to attach an external printer:
1Unpack and set up the printer according to the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
2Connect the printer to the QBC STAR instrument’s USB port (see Figure 4).
3Turn on power to the QBC STAR instrument rst.
4Turn on power to the external printer second.
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USB Ports
Ethernet Connection
On
/
Off Switch DC Power
Connection
Note: Please contact Drucker Diagnostics for printer compatibility.

QBC STAR System Operator’s Manual
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Upgrading the Software
Updated versions of the QBC STAR Hematology System software may be provided to you from time
to time. You should install new software as soon as you receive it. You should also log the update on
the form in Appendix C of this manual. Updated software is provided on a USB stick, labeled “QBC
STAR Software.”
To install a software update:
1. Verify your STAR analyzer is turned off
2. Insert the upgrade USB drive into any rear USB port
3. Turn on STAR
A. The STAR will automatically read the upgrade software from the USB drive.
B. The upgrade software will verify that it is being installed on compatible hardware.
C. The software will be installed and the STAR will progress through System Check.
D. Once installation is complete, the STAR will print the System Check with the date, time,
software version, and QC label checks.
4. Confirm software version on print out matches upgrade version
5. Turn off the STAR
6. Remove USB drive from STAR and discard
7. Turn on the STAR
8. Remove printouts from step 4 and step 7 from device and mail to Drucker Diagnostics in Appendix
D-1, scan a copy to [email protected], or fax to 814-692-7662.
DO NOT turn off the device while the software is upgrading. If you have any questions please contact
Drucker Diagnostics Technical Support at [phone] (U.S Only) or [phone].
System Setup and Utilities
Before using the QBC STAR instrument for sample testing, you should review system setup parameters
to see if they are suitable for your laboratory. These parameters include:
• LCD Contrast
• Date and Time
• Printer Settings
• Support
• Set Language
• Units
• Shipping Preparation
Any changes to configuration parameters are in effect from the time of the change forward. Also note
that any changes you make cannot be “cancelled” per se – if you change a value, you must manually
change the new value back to its previous state.
To Enter Setup Mode
1 Ensure the instrument door is closed and latched.
2 Lift and pull back the printer access door.
3 Turn on instrument power with the power switch on the rear of the instrument (Figure 4).
4 After the instrument completes a self-check and the door unlocks, press the ESC key on
the setup keypad.
5 A menu appears listing all the setup functions:
6000-300-000 2-6