TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
In the event of an error code, unplug the 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 and plug it back in to initiate the self‑diagnostic test. If error code re‑occurs, call for repair or replacement.
The LCD Display panel will indicate detected malfunctions by displaying a caution or error code under affected BI wells. The audible alarm, if active, sounds and the LCD Display
backlight flashes to alert the user to all caution (except C1) and error codes. The alarm and backlight can be silenced and extinguished, respectively, by pressing the Buzzer Alarm OFF
button
. Note that disabling the audible alarm does not disable the flashing LCD Display backlight. Refer to the following:
Code
Problem
C1
Unit Warm‑up Caution
Incubation block not at temperature.
C2
BI Removed from Well Caution
3M™ Attest™ BI has been removed before incubation
is complete.
C4
Ambient Light Caution
E1
Temperature Control Error
This error will occur if system is no longer able to control the
temperature of the incubator block (60ºC +/‑2ºC).
E3
Memory Error
3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 unable to save/read data
from memory.
E7
Communications Error
This error will occur if internal communications have failed.
E8
LED Error
This error occurs for a specific well if the system detects that a
UV LED or Optics Detection circuit is not working.
E11
BI Inserted Incorrectly Error
Incubation time remaining will not display and fluorescent
readings are not taken.
E12
Power Failure Error
Power to Auto‑reader was off for too long to provide valid result
for affected BI(s).
E14
Ambient Light Error (occupied well)
Fluorescent result will not display.
Other
Unwanted alarm sounds when positive BI detected.
Other
Alarm Sounds
3M™ Attest™ Biological Indicator has been removed from
incubation/reader well prematurely.
Other
LCD Panel does not display properly.
Other
Negative Control BI
BI not properly activated. Media did not contact spore carrier.
Control BI was sterilized.
Other
Unexplained Positive BI
Adhesive residue on vial.
Test vial is absorbing fluorescent residue from a chemical
indicator or tape.
Other
3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 will not enter Configuration
mode. Pushbutton Configuration may be disabled on 3M™
Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 Web App.
Other
3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 LCD display flashes and
asterisks (***) and/or E11 and/or C4 codes appear on display
below unoccupied incubation wells.
Solution
Allow a 30 minute warm‑up after 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 is plugged in. (Note: 3M™ Attest™
BI readings are disabled until incubator block reaches 60ºC +/‑2ºC).
Replace 3M™ Attest™ BI in proper well within 10 seconds to prevent loss of collected data.
Move 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 to reduced ambient light conditions.
Unplug the unit and plug it back in to clear error.
If error doesn't clear, call for repair or replacement.
Unplug the unit and plug it back in to clear error.
If error doesn't clear, call for repair or replacement.
Unplug the unit and plug it back in to clear error.
If error doesn't clear, call for repair or replacement.
Unplug the unit and plug it back in to clear error.
If error doesn't clear, call for repair or replacement. Do not use affected incubation well.
Remove BI and inspect to verify cap is fully closed, glass ampoule is crushed, and growth media is in
growth chamber. If necessary, repeat BI activation steps and return BI to incubation well, ensuring it is
seated properly.
Ensure power supply connection to Auto‑reader is secure. Retest sterilizer with a new BI.
Rely on optional visual pH color change result for BI in affected well. Move 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader
490 to reduced ambient light conditions to avoid future occurrences. To clear E14 error code, after
visual pH color change result has been documented and BI has been removed, unplug the 3M™
Attest™ Auto-reader 490 and plug it back in.
Disable alarm, refer to 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 Configuration section for instructions.
Replace 3M™ Attest™ Biological Indicator in incubation/reader well within 10 seconds to prevent
loss of data collected.
Cycle power. If problem persists call for repair or replacement.
Ensure BI cap is closed and glass ampoule is crushed.
Flick BI until media flows to spore chamber at bottom of BI.
Use a non‑sterilized BI as a control.
Check process indicator on BI cap.
Do not place tape or labels on vial.
Place the vial so it does not come in direct contact with chemical indicators or tape.
On 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 Web App Configuration Page, go to Pushbutton Configuration and
select the Enable radio button. Save changes to begin using new setting.
Move 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490 away from sunlight or sources of incandescent light.
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