Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Operating Manual Rev A May 2016

®

Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor

ating Oper al Manu

The brand names of products that have been registered or trademarked by and are owned by Sakura Finetek USA, Inc., Sakura Finetek Japan Co., Ltd., and Sakura Finetek Europe B.V. appear here: Tissue-Tek VIP Sakura Tissue-Tek Tissue-Tek AutoTEC Uni-Cassette Tissue-Tek Paraform

Other trademarks referenced in this operating manual: Tissue Fix is a registered trademark of Gene Linx International, Inc Omnifix is a registered trademark of An-Con Genetics, Inc.. Pen-Fix is a registered trademark of Richard-Allan Scientific Company Pro-Par is a registered trademark of Anatech, Ltd. Corporation Histosol is a registered trademark of National Diagnostics Clear-Rite 3 is a registered trademark of Richard-Allan Scientific Company Hemo-De is a registered trademark of Scientific Safety Solvents Para-Plast is a registered trademark of Leica Biosystems Richmond, Inc. Tissue-Prep is a registered trademark of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Ameraffin is a registered trademark of Allegiance Corporation

© 2016 Sakura Finetek USA, Inc. All Rights Reserved Printed in U.S.A.

Manufactured for: Sakura Finetek USA, Inc., Torrance, CA 90501 U.S.A. Sakura Finetek Japan Co., Ltd., Tokyo, 103-0023, Japan Sakura Finetek Europe B.V., 2408 AV Alphen aan den Rijn, The Netherlands

Revised 12 May 2016 0007852-01 Rev. A

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Page INTRODUCTION 1.1 Intended Use ... 5 1.2 General Description ... 5 1.3 Safety Instructions ... 6 1.4 Safety Precautions ... 6 1.5 Precautions ... 6 1.6 Physical Characteristics ... 7 1.7 User Interface ... 9 1.8 Specifications ... 11 1.9 Perfomance Data ... 12 1.10 Safety Standards... 12 INSTALLATION 2.1 General Information ... 13 2.2 Unpacking Instructions ... 13 2.3 Unpacking ... 13 2.4 Positioning the Instrument ... 14 2.5 Precautions ... 18 CUSTOMIZATION OF SETTINGS 3.1 General Information ... 19 3.2 Accessing the Menu ... 19 3.3 Configuring System Utilities ... 20 3.4 Customizing System Operating Parameters ... 33 3.5 Process Menu ... 47 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 4.1 Initial Setup... 59 4.2 Accessing the Start Tissue Processing Screen ... 59 4.3 Understanding the Start Tissue Processing Screen ... 60 4.4 Tissue Processing... 63 4.5 Cleaning ... 66 CONSUMABLE AND ACCESSORIES 5.1 Consumable Materials ... 73 5.2 Accessories ... 73 CARE OF THE INSTRUMENT 6.1 General Maintenance ... 75

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Section 7.

8.

9.

Page TROUBLESHOOTING 7.1 General Information ... 81 7.2 Monitored Errors ... 81 7.3 Retort Fill Error ... 81 SERVICE AND REPLACEMENT PARTS 8.1 Service Information ... 91 8.2 Replacement Accessory Items ... 91 8.3 Replacement Parts ... 91 8.4 Tissue-Tek VIP AI Preservice Checklist... 92 EXAMPLE PROCESSING 9.1 Sample Programs ... 93

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1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Intended Use

tissue processing. The bulk reagent system is also utilized during the automatic reagent transfer and onboard mixing functions to supply fresh reagent to the appropriate bottles.

The Tissue-Tek VIP® 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor is designed for the purpose of processing human and animal tissue specimens.

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Reagent Cabinet – Holds reagent bottles.

The operator places baskets containing tissue cassettes into the retort. The instrument then sequentially moves processing reagents and molten paraffin into and out of the retort through the use of vacuum and pressure. The heat of the paraffin causes the evaporation of clearing reagent from the paraffin. A degassing feature constantly aspirates air from the oven. This action sends the vapor-laden air through the VIP 6 AI’s air filtration system. The closed-system design and air filtration system ensure a sealed, moist environment for tissues and an essentially fume-free environment outside of the processor. Reagent bottles can be filled either manually or through the external drain and fill port.

The instrument, as part of the histopathology process, is intended to facilitate the in vitro examination of human and animal tissue for morphology changes by a pathologist.

1.2 General Description The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor is a self-contained, floor-standing, automatic, tissue processor, used to process tissue specimens (Figure 1-A). It holds up to 300 tissue cassettes. The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI has a 10.4-inch color LCD touch screen display for programming ease and process monitoring. It is programmable for up to fifty different tissue processing programs for the automation of fixation, dehydration, clearing, and paraffin infiltration of a variety of human, animal, or plant tissue specimens to be cut using microtomes. The operator can program the instrument to begin processing either immediately or in a delay mode. In delay mode, the operator enters a desired end time of up to 99 days, and the instrument then automatically calculates the program start time.

1 3 2

5

4

The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI consists of the following major components: 1

Control Panel – Comprises the controls and indicators necessary to program and operate the instrument and monitor the instrument during processing.

2

Retort – An enclosed, stationary chamber that holds the tissue specimens and in which all processing occurs.

3

Fume Filter Access Door – Provides access to the fume control system, which handles the safe disposal of dangerous fumes, and external Fill/Drain ports.

4

Paraffin Oven – Maintains molten paraffin at the appropriate temperature for use in the paraffin infiltration steps.

5

Bulk Reagent System – Supplies solution to a station where solution levels have become too low during

6 Figure 1-A

5

and, in addition, the designated personnel that operate, service, or repair the instrument.

1.3 Safety Instructions The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor operating manual includes important instructions and information related to the operating safety and maintenance of the instrument. It is important to read the operating manual carefully prior to the operation of the instrument for the first time and to keep the manual with the instrument at all times.

1.4 Safety Precautions WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, and NOTES are provided throughout this manual to indicate levels of potential hazards or helpful information as defined below.

This instrument has been built and tested with the following safety regulations on electrical measuring control, regulating, and laboratory devices:

WARNING: INDICATES A POTENTIAL HAZARD IN WHICH FAILURE TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THE OPERATOR AND/OR OTHER PERSONNEL.

IEC 61010-2-010:2014 IEC 61010-2-101:2015 CAN/CSA C22.2 No.61010-1 2nd Ed:2008 CAN/CSA C22.2 No.61010-2-010:2004 CAN/CSA C22.2 No.61010-2-101:2004 UL 61010-1 3rd Ed: 2012 In order to ensure safe operation, the operator must always comply with the instructions and warnings contained in the operating manual.

CAUTION: Indicates a potential hazard in which failure to follow instructions may result in damage to the VIP and/or other property. NOTE: Indicates a reminder or other helpful information.

WARNING: THIS SYSTEM USES ORGANIC SOLVENTS WHICH MAY IGNITE WHEN IN CONTACT WITH SOURCE OF FLAME. KEEP ALL INCENDIARY DEVICES AWAY FROM THIS UNIT. WARNING:

1.5 Precautions Do not fill a reagent bottle directly when the instrument is in operation.

BIOHAZARD

If you want to fill a reagent bottle directly or exchange a reagent when the instrument is in operation, be sure to interrupt the operation and abort the run. Ensure that no reagent is left in the retort before filling the target reagent bottle. If a reagent is present in the retort, be sure to drain the retort to return the reagent to its original bottle before filling. Failure to do so will cause the reagent bottle to overflow, resulting in malfunction and/or adverse effect on processing result.

CAUTION: Please allow full access to the main power cable as the power supply cable can be used to disconnect the power source in case of emergency. NOTE: The protective devices installed on both the instrument and accessories may neither be removed nor modified. Only authorized and qualified persons may access and repair the internal components of the instrument.

1.5.1 Safety Features

The safety devices installed in this instrument by the manufacturer only establish the basis for accident prevention. Primary responsibility for accident-free operation lies, above all, with the institution that owns the instrument

The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor is equipped with several safety features, which help to keep the operator and the instrument safe from harm.

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1. INTRODUCTION •

The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI is designed as a closed-system tissue processor to minimize the release of reagent fumes into the environment. It also contains a fume control system.

•

An electric interlock mechanism is provided with the retort lid. When an automatic operation (tissueprocessing, retort cleaning, warm water flush, rinsing, or solution exchange) is in progress or when the retort is manually pressurized or vacuumed, the retort lid is electronically locked.

•

If the unit is unable to pump a reagent into the retort (e.g., the bottle is empty or not properly connected), the reagent from the next station in the same solution group will be pumped into the retort until the level sensor in the retort is turned on. If the next station cannot be used, new solution is supplied from the external bulk reservoir linked (this is the factory default setting).

•

displays end time, processing steps, and processing methods, etc.).

Figure 1-B

1.6.2 Reagent Cabinet

When selected and certain safeguard conditions are met, the solution manager function will allow the instrument to complete a processing run even if a faulty pump-in or pump-out condition occurs.

•

Level sensors are provided to ensure positive fluid level sensing during special procedures such as continuous mixing.

•

The instrument will stop processing and an alarm will sound whenever there is an error condition. The instrument can also be connected to an external alarm. This alarm will alert personnel in case of an error during the night or weekend when the laboratory is not occupied.

•

Two levels of password, administrator and user, can be entered into the software to prevent access to the program settings and processing function by unauthorized personnel.

The reagent cabinet (Figure 1-C) holds ten bottles of processing reagents, designated as stations 1 through 10. There are four additional stations: Station 15 is a paraffin waste reservoir used in an automated paraffin transfer procedure. Stations 16 and 17 hold bottles for xylene and alcohol used during the cleaning cycle. The final bottle is a condensation bottle used to collect condensate from the fume condenser system.

1.6 Physical Characteristics Figure 1-C

1.6.1 Control Panel The control panel (Figure 1-B) contains the screen display, which the operator uses to communicate with the instrument software. The display screen is a 10.4-inch VGA (Video Graphics Array) TFT color touch screen. All operating functions are controlled through the display screen (e.g. 7

paraffin. Station 14 can replenish stations 11 through 13, if needed.

1.6.3 Retort The retort (Figure 1-D) is the chamber where tissue processing occurs. One or two baskets, which hold the specimens, are placed into the retort. During processing the retort lid is held securely closed by a latch located on top of the retort. An electronic interlock mechanism is integrated into the retort lid. When an automatic operation (tissue processing, retort cleaning, warm water flush, rinsing, or solution exchange) is in progress or when the retort is manually pressurized or vacuumed, the retort lid is electronically locked. When the automatic operation is finished or suspended or when the manual operation is completed, the system verifies that the pressure in the retort returned to ambient before releasing the retort lid interlock.

Figure 1-E

1.6.5 Activated Carbon Cartridges

Solutions are introduced from the top of the retort and drained from the bottom. Level sensors detect proper solution levels during pump-in.

The activated carbon cartridges (Figure 1-F) are part of an effective fume control system. As air circulates throughout the inside of the instrument, fumes generated by various solutions are captured and extracted by the carbon cartridges. The fume control housing can be accessed through the fume filter access door. It is recommended that the carbon cartridges be replaced monthly.

Level

Drain Figure 1-D

1.6.4 Paraffin Oven The paraffin oven (Figure 1-E) maintains a set temperature to hold molten paraffin at the proper temperature for use in the infiltration step. The oven holds a total of four paraffin reservoirs, 3 small and 1 large. These reservoirs are designated as stations 11 through 14. They are drainable and can be easily removed for refilling. The small reservoirs 11 through 13 hold a maximum of 4.2L of molten paraffin. The large reservoir station 14 holds a maximum of 5.6L of molten

Figure 1-F

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1. INTRODUCTION 1.6.6 Leveling Feet/Casters

USB Port

There are four casters (Figure 1-G) for instrument mobility; positive locks on the front casters hold the instrument securely in place for stationary use.

Power Switch

Figure 1-G

Figure 1-H

1.7 User Interface 1.7.1 Power Switch The power switch (Figure 1-H) is located on the right side of the control panel below the USB port. The power switch also acts as an emergency stop switch.

1.7.2 USB Port The USB port (Figure 1-H) is located on the right side of the control panel. Use a USB drive to store programs, solution configurations, solution names, etc. This port should not be used to connect external devices such as a printer or keyboard.

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1.7.3 External Interface The external interface (Figure 1-I) is located on the back of the control panel and includes the following: •

UPS - two signals (power outage signal, low battery signal)

•

External Signal Output

•

External Alarm Output

•

LAN Terminal

Figure 1-I

1.7.4 Power Cord The power cord input (Figure 1-J) is located on the left rear of the control panel and is used to connect the instrument to a power source. The power cord must be plugged into an appropriately grounded AC electrical outlet.

Figure 1-J

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1. INTRODUCTION Condensate Reservoir: 1 Paraffin Waste Reservoir: 1 Bulk Reagent Reservoirs: 2 Capacity: up to 300 Uni-Cassettes®

1.8 Specifications Models Covered by this Manual Product Code Name/Description 6040 Tissue-Tek VIP® 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor 6041 Tissue-Tek VIP® 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor 6042 Tissue-Tek VIP® 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor

P/V Cycle Pressure, ambient, and vacuum cycles are alternated in the retort during processing. 30-180 Seconds Pressure 30-180 Seconds Ambient 30-180 Seconds Vacuum Vacuum: Vacuum and ambient cycles are alternated in the retort during processing. 30-180 Seconds Vacuum 30-180 Seconds Ambient

Power Supply Requirements Rated Voltage and Current: Model 6040 Single phase, AC 115V ± 10%, 50/60 Hz, 12 Amps Model 6041 Single phase, AC 100V ± 10%, 50/60 Hz, 12 Amps Model 6042 Single phase, AC 230V ± 10%, 50/60 Hz, 6 Amps

Mixing

Dimensions Centimeters: Inches: Weight:

There are three different core mixing functions: Pump In and Pump Out, Continuous or off. There are four different mixing options using variations of the core mixing functions. These options include complete mixing, continuous mixing, short mixing, and continuous mixing for defatting. Mixing is userselectable for each processing station. Pump In and Pump Out Agitation by pumping reagent in and completely out of the retort every 12 or 20 minutes. Continuous Agitation by moving the fluid level up and down between two level sensors or the bottom of the retort and a level sensor over a certain amount of time.

61 (W) x 68 (D) x 133 (H) 24 (W) x 27 (D) x 52 (H) 175 kg (386 lbs.) – Without accessories and reagents

Environmental Requirements Operating Temperature: Relative Humidity:

10ºC to 40ºC (50ºF to 104ºF) 30-85% (non-condensing)

Storage Conditions Storage Temperature: Relative Humidity:

-10ºC to 60ºC (14ºF to 140ºF) 30-95% (non-condensing)

Pollution Degree

Reservoir Capacity/Fill Volumes Cassettes: Cassette Baskets: Processing Reagent Reservoirs: Paraffin Reservoirs (Small): Paraffin Reservoirs (Large): Cleaning Reagent Reservoirs:

Electrical Safety Standard Pollution degree 2 (IEC 61010-1, 5.4.2d)

150 or 300 1 or 2

Transient Overvoltage

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Electrical Safety Standard Category II (IEC 61010-1, 5.4.2d)

3

Maximum Level of Sound Pressure

1

Sound pressure generating

2 11

60 dBA or less

1.9 Performance Data

1.10 Safety Standards

Operator Password

For Model 6040 Complies with: IEC 61010-2-010:2014 IEC 61010-2-101:2015 CAN/CSA C22.2 No.61010-1 2nd Ed:2008 CAN/CSA C22.2 No.61010-2-010:2004 CAN/CSA C22.2 No.61010-2-101:2004 UL 61010-1 3rd Ed: 2012

Up to 20 operators (22 characters per name). Up to 4 administrators (22 characters per name).

Programs/Methods Up to 50 programs can be stored in memory. Up to 14 steps can be programmed for each method.

For Model 6041 Japanese Pharmaceutical Law Complies with: Quality Management System: ISO 13485: 2003 Electrical Safety Standards: JIS C 1010-1:2014 IEC 61010-2-010:2014 IEC 61010-2-101:2015 EMC standard: JIS C1806-2-6:2012 Risk Management: EN ISO 14971:2012

Solution Names Up to 100 solution names (22 characters per name) can be stored in memory.

Solution Configurations Up to 5 solution configurations can be stored in memory.

Cleaning Programs Up to 3 programs can be stored in memory.

Reagent Compatibility •

Complete: 10%-20% Formalin, Tissue-Tek VIP® Fixative, up to 20% NBF, alcoholic formalin, Tissue Fix™, Omnifix®, Pen-Fix™, zinc formalin, Millionigs BF, ethyl alcohol, isopropanol alcohol, methanol, reagent grade alcohol, Xylene, Pro-Par™, toluene, benzene, AmeriClear, Histo-Clear, Tissue-Clear, chloroform, HistoSol™, Clear-Rite 3™, Hemo-De®, Tissue-Tek VIP® Paraffin, Para-Plast™, Tissue-Prep™, Ameraffin™.

•

Partial (off-line fixation, rinse): Zenkers, Bouin’s, B-5.

•

Incompatible reagents: Bleach, Per-fix™, Helly’s, Acetone, Tissue-Dry, 5% or greater acetic acid solution, re-distilled Xylene from cleaning stations, reagents containing more than 0.5% chloride, paraffin substitutes.

For Model 6042 Complies with: LVD, IVD EN 61010-2-101:2002 ISO 13485: 2003 EN ISO 14971: 2012 ISO 18113-1: 2009 ISO 18113-3: 2009 EN 61326-2-6: 2006 EN 62304: 2006 EN 62366: 2008

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2. INSTALLATION Unpacking Check List

2.1 General Information

Confirm that all accessories are provided with the instrument.

This section provides detailed installation and setup instructions for the Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor. The installation steps must be followed correctly to ensure proper operation and service. Read this operating manual carefully before attempting to operate the instrument. Follow all instructions carefully.

Description & Product Number

Quantity

Operating Manual P/N 0007852-01

1

Warranty Card (located inside the operating manual (USA only)

1

USB Memory P/N A3-60-4499

1

Power Cord P/N A4-01-0542

1

Complete Reagent Bottles P/N 6035

12

Condensation Reservoir P/N A-MO79-U050-00-A

1

Paraffin Reservoir, Large P/N F60-493-00

1

Paraffin Reservoir, Small P/N F60-492-00

3

Fume Filters P/N 6160

2

2.2 Environmental Factors

Cassette Baskets P/N 5265

2

External Drain & Fill Hose P/N F61-061-00

1

As with all sensitive electronic instruments, prolonged exposure to excessive humidity and temperature should be avoided. Temperature and humidity should be held relatively constant. The ambient temperature for operating the instrument is 10ºC to 40ºC (50ºF to 104ºF). The ambient operating humidity range is 30-85% relative humidity.

Bulk reservoir (right) fill hose P/N F61-059-00

1

Bulk reservoir (left) fill hose P/N F61-060-00

1

Reagent Bottle Labels P/N F60-529-00

1 set

Paraffin Waste Bags P/N 6045

1 case

The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI is a precision instrument and must be handled accordingly. Rough handling or dropping the instrument will disturb or damage internal components. Always handle the instrument with care. Select a place where sufficient clearance can be provided around the instrument. Ample working space is necessary in front and on top of the instrument.

External Drain and Fill Hose clip P/N D9-80-0115

1

Paraffin Scraper, Large P/N 1550

1

2.3 Unpacking

Paraffin Scrapper, Small P/N 6034

1

Paraffin Waste Reservoir w/ Lid P/N F60-499-00

1

Unpack the instrument in accordance with the instructions provided with the instrument.

Spare Solution Bottle P/N O71-411-00

1

Screen Protection Sheet P/N O70-626-00

1

Basket Transport Tray P/N 7109

1

Anti-Adhesion Sheet P/N D9-80-0119

1

Level Sensor Cleaning Brush P/N 0006875-01

1

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5. Push firmly to close the drawer.

2.4 Positioning the Instrument

NOTE: It is recommended that the carbon filters be replaced monthly.

Locate the instrument in a well-ventilated area, avoiding exposure to corrosive vapors and extreme variations in Installing the Reagent Bottles temperature or humidity. The area should be clean and dust free. Be sure it is near a power source that meets the 1. Insert a bottle coupler and tube into each reagent bottle. electrical requirements specified on the rating label located (Figure 2-B). Ensure that the open end of the tube faces on the right side of the instrument. The power receptacle downward, not upward must be grounded and should be a dedicated line. Avoid Bottle proximity to direct sunlight, open windows, ovens, hot Fill Cap Coupler plates, open burners, or radiators.

Positioning the Accessories Installing the Activated Carbon Filters CAUTION: Make sure that the instrument is switched off and the power cord is unplugged before beginning. Figure 2-B

1. Open the fume filter access door. 2. Pull out the fume filter drawer.

NOTE: The condensation bottle has a dedicated bottle coupler which does not fit with couplers on other bottles for processing and cleaning reagents.

3. Remove the plastic wrapping from both carbon filters. 4. Place the carbon cartridges side by side in a vertical position in the appropriate location (Figure 2-A).

2. Color-coded labels are provided for reagent identification. Affix a label and mark each according to the desired solution type. 3. Open the doors of the reagent cabinet by pushing the magnetic latch located on the upper inside corner of each door (Figure 2-C).

Figure 2-A

Figure 2-C

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2. INSTALLATION To fill the bottles using the external Drain/Fill port

4. Place the bottle in the appropriate position and push it into the rear of the instrument until it snaps in place (Figure 2-D).

1. Connect the drain/fill hose to the black external Drain/Fill port located behind the fume filter access door. Push gently on the door to get access to the port (Figure 2-E). 2. Insert the other end of the drain/fill hose into a reagent container with at least 5 L of reagent. Make sure the reagent in the container is the same as the one programmed for that station.

Figure 2-D 5. Ensure that the bottle is securely connected by gently pulling it out. It should not budge. If there is any movement, try connecting bottle again.

Figure 2-E

6. If filled bottles need to be moved to another location, flip the small cap located on the top of the bottle screw cap to remove. Affix the small cap to the connector end of the bottle.

3. From the Main Menu screen, touch the Log On button (Figure 2-F).

Filling the Reagent Bottles Bottles can be filled manually or through the external Drain/Fill port. To fill the bottles manually Be sure the bottles are placed on a level surface. Remove the bottle cap by turning it counterclockwise. Fill the bottle with the appropriate reagent to the desired solution level. Replace the cap when finished. Figure 2-F 4. Enter the default password “100000”. 5. Touch the Menu button.

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6. Touch the Process Menu tab. 7. Touch Exchange Solution button. 8. Touch the Single Solution tab. 9. Touch the solution to be filled. 10. Touch the External Fill button. 11. Touch the View as a List button to view the solution list and then touch Exit to continue. 12. Choose the volume of the solution for the station chosen (150 cassettes, 300 cassettes, or cleaning). 13. Touch Start to begin the solution exchange or Exit to exit the screen. •

If desired, the drain/fill port can be rinsed using the Rinse function.

Figure 2-G

14. Exchange Confirmation: •

Touch Yes if connection is secure.

•

Touch No if connection is not secure and then connect the drain/fill hose.

15. Start Confirmation: •

Touch Yes when ready to exchange.

16. Start Notice: •

Touch Exit.

17. End Notice: •

Touch Exit.

Figure 2-H 4. Unfold the stiffened portion of the liner (Figure 2-I).

Installing the Waste Paraffin Reservoir Liner 1. Insert black Anti-Adhesion sheet into Paraffin Waste reservoir (Figure 2-H). 2. Take one liner out from the package. 3. Spread out the folded liner (Figure 2-H).

Figure 2-I

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2. INSTALLATION 5. Hold both ends and insert the liner into the waste paraffin reservoir (Figure 2-J).

7. Fold both the front and back edges of the stiffened portion of the liner (Figure 2-L).

Figure 2-J

Figure 2-L

6. Fold the edge of the liner along the edge of the waste paraffin reservoir (Figure 2-K).

8. Put the lid on the waste paraffin reservoir (Figure 2-M).

Figure 2-M

Figure 2-K

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Installing the Paraffin Reservoirs

2.5 Precautions There are several precautions that must be observed before operating the instrument:

The default temperature for the paraffin oven is 63ºC (145.4ºF). If this temperature is not suitable for the paraffin being used, set the appropriate temperature, as described in Section 3.4.4, “Modifying Program Steps”. If it is suitable, the paraffin reservoirs can be filled with molten or solid paraffin pellets.

1. Check the fill level of each reagent bottle to ensure the specified volumes. 2. Check the screw caps of each bottle to ensure tightness. Check each connection to ensure that it is properly seated.

1. Fill to the embossed line with molten or solid paraffin pellets.

3. Check the paraffin containers for proper fill level. Use only paraffin with the same melting point, not to exceed 70ºC (158ºF). Ensure that all tanks are properly seated in their connections.

2. Touch the Process Menu tab. 3. Touch the Start Paraffin Melt button.

4. Never attempt to open the retort lid if the lock icon is displayed. Open the lid only when the lock icon is not displayed.

NOTE: When filling with solid paraffin pellets, it may be necessary to add more paraffin later to reach the fill level.

NOTE: The pressure and vacuum are released automatically through a safety relief valve when the retort latch is moved to the open position. Wait for the lock icon to disappear before opening the lid.

4. Touch either the Add Solid Paraffin or Add Melted Paraffin button. NOTE: If adding solid paraffin to all 4 stations, the instrument requires a 24 hour melting process.

5. Do not obstruct the ventilation louvers on the top of the control panel. This area must be kept clear to ensure proper ventilation. Also, do not place any liquid containers on top of the control panel; spillage could cause extensive damage to the instrument.

5. Carefully replace each paraffin container into the oven. Ensure they are properly connected by pushing them as far back as possible. 6. Close the oven door. 7. Touch the Start button. WARNING: USE EXTREME CARE WHEN FILLING THE PARAFFIN CONTAINERS. MOLTEN PARAFFIN IS VERY HOT AND CAN CAUSE SEVERE BURNS. NOTE: When the instrument is first powered on, it requires 24 hours to completely melt solid paraffin.

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3. CUSTOMIZATION OF SETTINGS 3.1 General Information The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Vacuum Infiltration Processor allows for the customization of a number of system options and the configuration of certain operating parameters to suit the specific requirements of a given installation. The VIP Menu provides the means of viewing and modifying current system settings. This section outlines the procedures to perform initial setup of Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI system settings. Factory default settings for each parameter are listed where applicable. Perform the following setup procedures prior to initial use of the system. In addition, perform these procedures as needed to reset system settings, add or remove system users, etc.

Figure 3-A 3. Touch the Menu button to display the main menu (Figure 3-B).

3.2 Accessing the Menu NOTE: Login as an Administrator in order to modify system settings and operating parameters. To access the Menu: 1. From the main system screen, touch the Log On button. The Enter Password dialog box displays. 2. Use the touch keypad to enter the selected password and then touch the Enter button. •

The default password for the system is set to “100000”. Figure 3-B

NOTE: For security reasons, the selected password will display on the screen, as entered, as a series of asterisks. •

•

The Tissue-Tek VIP 6 AI Menu consists of three tabbed pages that provide access to the following submenus Utility Menu, Edit Menu, and Process Menu. System configuration and setup are performed from these three menus.

If login is unsuccessful: Re-enter the selected password and then press the Enter button to resubmit login request. If login is successful: The Main Menu screen displays (Figure 3-A).

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