The Siemens Advia 2120 hematology analyzer is known for its high-throughput performance, precise results, and advanced cellular analysis. However, to ensure consistent operation and reduce downtime, it is essential to follow a structured routine of daily maintenance and calibration. This guide outlines the key daily procedures required to maintain optimal performance of your Advia 2120 while also highlighting practical steps for routine calibration.
Proper daily care not only enhances reliability but also extends the life of components, ensures accurate test results, and helps labs meet regulatory compliance. For labs using related systems like the Siemens Advia family, including units integrated with Siemens Advia 2120i, these maintenance habits are even more crucial in multi-system workflows.
Why Daily Maintenance Matters
Daily maintenance ensures that the system stays clean, fluidics remain unclogged, and reagents are flowing correctly. The Siemens Advia 2120 performs complex cell analysis through advanced flow cytometry and optical systems, both of which are sensitive to residue, dust, and mechanical wear.
Skipping daily maintenance may result in:
- Inaccurate CBC or differential counts
- Increased frequency of error codes or alerts
- Cross-contamination between samples
- Reduced lifespan of fluidic and optical components
Step-by-Step Daily Maintenance Tasks
Here is a checklist of essential maintenance actions to be completed at the beginning and end of each workday:
1. Prime the System
Start the day by priming the fluidics. This clears air bubbles and ensures that all tubing and valves are ready for analysis.
- Navigate to the system menu and run a prime cycle for both reagents and diluents.
- Ensure that no air is present in the lines.
2. Clean the Sample Aspiration Probe
The sample probe should be cleaned daily to prevent carryover between samples.
- Use the system’s built-in cleaning function or manually clean with a probe rinse solution.
- Inspect the probe for clots or dried sample residue.
3. Empty and Inspect Waste Containers
Overfilled waste containers can lead to system shutdowns or leaks.
- Empty all waste containers and clean them if needed.
- Check tubing connections for signs of leaks or backflow.
4. Inspect Reagent and Diluent Levels
Before processing any samples, check reagent status on the screen and visually inspect all bottles.
- Refill or replace reagents with fresh, properly labeled bottles.
- Confirm expiration dates and lot numbers.
5. Run Background Check
Perform a background check to confirm that the system is contamination-free.
- Background counts should fall within Siemens’ specified range.
- If out of range, initiate a cleaning cycle or review recent maintenance tasks.
Daily Calibration Guide
Calibration is critical to maintaining the Siemens Advia 2120’s analytical precision. Though not required daily for all labs, calibration should be checked and verified frequently—especially after reagent changes, maintenance, or unexpected errors.
1. Use Certified Calibrators
Always use Siemens-recommended calibrator material specifically made for the Advia 2120 hematology system.
- Store calibrators under proper conditions.
- Gently mix before use—avoid vigorous shaking.
2. Follow System Prompts
The Advia 2120 software provides step-by-step guidance during calibration.
- Access the calibration menu and select the appropriate method (manual or automated).
- Run a control sample after calibration to verify accuracy.
3. Document Results
Keep records of calibration dates, results, and any corrective actions.
- Maintain logs for audits and accreditation standards.
- Retain printouts or digital reports as required by your lab protocol.
Tips for Reliable Operation
- Schedule preventive maintenance quarterly or bi-annually depending on usage.
- Use lint-free cloths and approved solutions to clean exterior and touchscreen.
- Run controls at the beginning of each day and after every calibration cycle.
- Avoid using near-expiry reagents to prevent quality issues.
For labs operating both the Advia 2120 and integrated chemistry platforms like the Siemens Advia 1200 or CH 930, synchronized calibration and maintenance schedules can ensure seamless operation across systems.
Conclusion
Consistent daily maintenance and proper calibration of the Siemens Advia 2120 are essential for optimal performance and accurate hematology results. From priming the system and cleaning probes to running background checks and calibrations, each step plays a critical role in maintaining diagnostic integrity.
By adopting these daily best practices, your lab will experience fewer interruptions, improved test quality, and a longer lifespan for your analyzer. Additionally, incorporating systems like the Siemens Advia CH 930 for workflow expansion demands even more rigorous maintenance habits, reinforcing the need for routine care and calibration in every lab setting.