FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the analyzer only measure one parameter at a time?
No. The analyzer offers a variety of reagent discs, each pre‑loaded with multiple lyophilized reagents for different purposes. For example, the liver function disc includes total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), total bilirubin (TBIL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and 5 other parameters – 8 in total. These fixed panels provide great convenience for veterinarians in their diagnostic work.
2. Can the instrument detect defective or damaged reagent discs?
Yes. The analyzer’s proprietary Real‑time Quality Control (RQC) system can identify all manufacturing defects in the reagent discs. Tianjin MNCHIP Technologies Co., Ltd. will replace, free of charge, reagent discs that have production defects based on the data recorded by the instrument (free replacement does not cover discs wasted due to mishandling, manual termination of a test, improper storage leading to reagent failure, or use of unsuitable samples).
3. If I select “Cancel Test” during a biochemical test or quality control run, can the reagent disc be reused as if no sample had been added?
No. You must take a new reagent disc and run the test again.
4. What happens if I use an expired reagent disc during a test?
Each reagent disc package has a QR code. When you scan the code, if the disc has expired, the analyzer will display the message: “The reagent disc has expired, please replace it.”
5. What are the storage conditions and shelf life of the reagent disc?
Reagent discs must be stored at 2 °C to 8 °C. The shelf life is one year.
6. Do I need to take the reagent disc out of storage and bring it to room temperature before testing?
No. It can be used immediately after opening the package.
7. What causes condensation on the surface of the reagent disc, and does it affect the test?
If the disc is opened before it has reached room temperature, a small amount of condensation may appear on its surface. This does not affect normal use; you can proceed to add sample and diluent according to the procedure.
8. What sample types are compatible with the system?
Well‑mixed, clot‑free anticoagulated whole blood, and non‑hemolyzed plasma or serum. Discs containing LDH and K⁺ are intended for serum or plasma samples only.
9. How often should quality control (QC) be tested?
Animal clinics should perform QC testing according to their internal laboratory management protocols. QC should be run at least once a month to verify that results are in control. When possible, run QC alongside clinical samples for each test session.
10. What should I do if the reagent disc reports an error during testing?
First, record the error code. Then contact our after‑sales service staff, who will guide you on the next steps based on the error type. Once a disc has reported an error, do not reuse it; replace it with a new disc and repeat the test.
11. Does the analyzer have any requirements for blood collection tubes?
Yes. The analyzer requires the use of lithium heparin anticoagulant tubes. Sodium heparin or EDTA tubes must not be used.
12. Why do some parameters on the test report show “—”?
Like large clinical chemistry analyzers, the analyzer can produce abnormal results due to sample abnormalities, operator error, reagent issues, or instrument malfunctions. Large analyzers typically require skilled operators to interpret such abnormalities and decide whether to repeat the test. This analyzer features an intelligent QC system that automatically evaluates these situations. If an abnormality is detected, the affected results will show “—” to prevent unreliable results from influencing clinical diagnosis.
13. Why do some parameters on the test report show “≥XX”?
Biochemical reagents have a defined linear range. When the concentration of an analyte in the sample exceeds the upper limit of that linear range, the analyzer reports “≥XX” (where XX is the upper limit of the linear range). If an exact value is needed, please dilute the sample and retest, or use another biochemical analysis system with a wider linear range. For detailed instructions, contact Tianjin MNCHIP After‑Sales Service Department.
14. What should I do if the sample test results do not match the clinical signs?
Carefully check whether the blood sample is hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric; whether any procedural errors occurred (reagent disc or instrument); whether the correct disc type was used; and whether the reagent has expired. If no abnormality is found, repeat the test once and combine the result with other auxiliary diagnostic methods to ensure accuracy of the clinical diagnosis.
15. What printing methods are supported by the analyzer? Can it be directly connected to an external printer?
The analyzer supports two printing methods:
a. Direct connection to an external printer (for specific models):
Models PM4, CM5 can be directly connected to an HP laser printer (model: HP P1106) or an HP inkjet printer (model: HP DeskJet 1112);
b. Connection via a computer (general method):
Connect the analyzer to a computer (with the control software installed and the instrument connected) via the USB port, and then print using an external printer connected to that computer.
16. Does the operator need professional training? What are the key training points?
Brief professional training is recommended. Key points include: instrument operating procedure, precautions during use, sample and diluent handling, common malfunctions and their solutions.
17. Does the analyzer require periodic replacement of the light source?
No. The xenon lamp in the analyzer has a lifetime of 10⁹ flashes and does not need periodic replacement.
18. How do I log in to the management platform?
There are three ways to log in to the management platform. You may choose one of the following:
a. Cloud connection (both the analyzer and the computer must be connected to the internet):
– Turn on the biochemistry analyzer and navigate to System Settings → Communication → Wired Network or Wireless LAN.
– Select an available network connection method. After successfully connecting to the internet, tap Back to return to the Device Information screen.
– Locate the device serial number (e.g., PV1512002Z02 xxxxx) and the 6‑ to 8‑digit login password displayed next to it.
– Note: When entering the password, pay attention to uppercase/lowercase letters and include any spaces exactly as shown.
– After entering the password, tap Cloud Connection to log in.
b. USB data cable connection:
– Connect one end of the original data cable to your computer and the other end to the analyzer.
– Then simply tap Data Cable Connection on the analyzer screen.
c. Local Area Network (LAN) connection:
– Connect both the analyzer and the computer to the same network subnet.
– Then tap LAN Connection to log in.
– Note: Make sure to disable the domain network firewall.