Leica ST5010 Boyama Cihazı
Leica ST5010 Boyama Cihazı
Leica ST5010 Boyama Cihazı
The information, numerical data, notes and value judgments contained in this Instructions for Use
represent the current state of scientific knowledge and state-of-the-art technology as we understand it
following thorough investigation in this field.
We are under no obligation to update the present Instructions for Use periodically and on an ongoing
basis according to the latest technical developments, nor to provide our customers with additional
copies, updates etc. of this Instructions for Use.
To the extent permitted in accordance with the national legal system as applicable in each individual
case, we shall not be held liable for erroneous statements, drawings, technical illustrations etc.
contained in this Instructions for Use. In particular, no liability whatsoever is accepted for any financial
loss or consequential damage caused by or related to compliance with statements or other information
in this Instructions for Use.
Statements, drawings, illustrations and other information regarding the contents or technical details of
the present Instructions for Use are not to be considered warranted characteristics of our products.
These are determined only by the contract provisions agreed between ourselves and our customers.
Leica reserves the right to change technical specifications as well as manufacturing processes without
prior notice. Only in this way is it possible to continuously improve the technology and manufacturing
techniques used in our products.
This document is protected under copyright laws. All copyrights to this documentation are held by Leica
Biosystems Nussloch GmbH.
Any reproduction of text and illustrations (or of any parts thereof) by means of print, photocopy,
microfiche, web cam or other methods – including any electronic systems and media – requires express
prior permission in writing by Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH.
For the instrument serial number and year of manufacture, please refer to the nameplate on the back of
the instrument.
1. Important Information................................................................................................................................. 6
1.1 Symbols in the text and their meaning.......................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Intended use.................................................................................................................................................... 10
1.3 User group....................................................................................................................................................... 10
2. Safety........................................................................................................................................................... 11
2.1 General safety notes...................................................................................................................................... 11
2.2 Specific safety notes..................................................................................................................................... 11
3. Instrument Features................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1 General description........................................................................................................................................ 15
3.2 Standard delivery – packing list................................................................................................................... 16
3.3 Specifications.................................................................................................................................................. 18
11. Appendix..................................................................................................................................................... 45
11.1 Adjustable parameters.................................................................................................................................. 45
11.2 Consumables and accessories.................................................................................................................... 45
11.3 Compatible staining programs..................................................................................................................... 47
1. Important Information
General information
These Instructions for Use include important instructions and information related to the operating safety
and maintenance of the instrument.
The Instructions for Use are an important part of the product. They must be read carefully prior to
startup and use, and must always be kept near the instrument.
If additional requirements for accident prevention and environmental protection apply in the country
of operation, these Instructions for Use must be supplemented by appropriate instructions to ensure
compliance with such requirements.
Make sure to read all of these Instructions for Use before you work on or operate the instrument.
Warning
Be sure to comply with the safety instructions and warnings in (→ p. 11 – 2. Safety). Be sure to
read these notes even if you are already familiar with the operation and use of other Leica products.
Instrument type
All information in these Instructions for Use applies only to the Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) described
here.
A nameplate indicating the instrument serial number is attached to the rear of the instrument.
Note
(→ Fig. 1) is provided as an example only and shows a valid nameplate for this instrument with
the necessary information about instrument type and power requirement. The precise data for the
various versions is specified in (→ p. 18 – 3.3 Specifications).
Fig. 1
Danger
Any use of the instrument that deviates from the designated use is considered improper.
Failure to adhere to these instructions may result in an accident, personal injury, damage to
the instrument or accessory equipment. Proper and intended use includes compliance with all
inspection and maintenance instructions, along with the observance of all instructions in the
Instructions for Use as well as the constant inspection of the reagents for storage life and quality.
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) carries out the specified staining steps automatically. The
manufacturer assumes no liability for the staining results in the case that the staining steps and
programs are entered incorrectly. Thus, the end user is independently responsible for self-created
reagents or program entries.
• The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) should be operated by trained laboratory personnel only.
• All laboratory personnel designated to operate the Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) must read these
Instructions for Use carefully and must be familiar with all technical features of the instrument before
attempting to operate the Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010).
Note
To prevent damage to the instrument and specimens, only those accessories and spare parts that
have been authorized by Leica may be installed or used with the instrument.
This instrument has been built and tested in accordance with the safety requirements for electrical
equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use.
To maintain this condition and ensure safe operation, the user must observe all notes and warnings
contained in these Instructions for Use.
For current information about applicable standards, please refer to the CE Declaration of Conformity on
our Internet site:
www.LeicaBiosystems.com
Warning
Operating the instrument without adequate clothing
Personal injury
• Always wear protective clothing suitable for laboratory use, as well as rubber gloves and safety
goggles when handling the chemicals used in this instrument.
• Always follow your laboratory safety regulations.
Warning
Breathing in vapors dangerous to health
Personal injury
• Connect the instrument to a laboratory air exhaust system using the dedicated hose (lenghts of
2 m and 4 m available). Alternatively the instrument can be operated below a fume cupboard. This
should be run in addition to the active carbon filter.
Warning
Contamination after accidential handling of reagents
Insufficient staining quality or complete loss of tissue
• If you have accidentially contaminated reagents, e.g., because a reagent has dripped into
another vessel always follow your local regulations. Focus on saving the tissue first. Dispose any
contaminated reagents and clean the affected vessels thoroughly.
Caution
Vessels not cleaned or cleaned insufficiently before refilling with another reagent
Insufficient staining quality, tissue damage or loss of tissue
• Always clean the vessels thoroughly and regularly before refilling them (→ p. 38 – 6.2 Reagent
containers).
Caution
Inadequate manual loading of specimen slide holders into vessels
Loss of tissue and / or property damage because of crash due to automized loading of another
specimen slide holder into the same vessel
• Do not manually load specimen slide holders and start any movement of the transport arm
Caution
Lids not removed from vessel
Loss of tissue and / or property damage because of crash due to automized loading of a specimen
slide holder
• Always make sure that any lids are removed before initiating any transport to the affected vessel.
Caution
Specimen slide holders are loaded unintentionally into exit drawer instead of the load drawer.
Delay of processing time / Damage or loss of tissue
• Always pay attention to load specimen slide holders into the load drawer (→ p. 34 – 5.9.4
Loading specimen slide holders).
Caution
Reagent filling level within vessels is insufficient
Loss of tissue and / or property damage because of crash due to automized loading of a specimen
slide holder
• Check the filling level of the vessels regularly and clean and / or refill if required.
• Cover unused vessels to minimize evaporation.
Caution
Water drainage not cleaned or cleaned insufficiently
Insufficient staining quality, loss of tissue or property damage
• Check and clean the draining system regularly for correct flow.
Caution
Specimen slide holders not unloaded in a timely manner from exit drawer
Delay of processing time / Damage or loss of tissue
• Unload the exit drawer in time, close the exit drawer and press EXIT (→ p. 35 – 5.9.5 Unloading
specimen slide holders from the exit drawer).
Caution
Specimen slide holder processed with wrong program parameters
Damage or loss of tissue
• Always double‑check program parameters of user‑specific programs before you start
processing.
3. Instrument Features
General description
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) was developed with the goal of satisfying the quality requirements of
modern laboratories:
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) achieves its high throughput by means of a specimen slide transport
system, which allows for simultaneous processing of up to 11 specimen slide holders, each with 30
slides.
The flexibility of Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) permits simultaneous processing of specimen slide
holders according to various staining protocols.
An oven is integrated into the instrument which accelerates drying of specimen slides. Optimized wash
stations provide for rapid removal of reagent residue. The design of the specimen slide holders ensures
minimal reagent displacement and prevents the reagents from being contaminated by liquid dripping
into them and needing to be replaced prematurely.
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) is safe to use and has an integrated system for extracting reagent
vapors. The specimen slide holders are loaded and unloaded using two drawers.
21 1
20 3
19
18
4
5
17
6
16
7
8
11
15 9
14
13
10
12
Fig. 2
Front side of instrument
The lock for the hood contains a gas pressure spring. This part can wear out. In case of weakening
1)
holding force, please contact our after-sales service and ask for replacement.
7 6 5 14 9 4 10 11 3 12 13 8 2
Fig. 3
Note
To prevent damage to the instrument and specimens, only those accessories and spare parts that
have been authorized by Leica may be installed or used with the instrument.
Standard delivery:
The country specific power cord needs to be ordered separately. Please find a list of all power cords
available for your device on our website www.LeicaBiosystems.com within the product section.
3.3 Specifications
Dimensions (width x depth x height): 109 cm x 67 cm x 51 cm
Weight: 65 kg
Nominal supply voltages: 100‑120V AC ± 10 % or 230‑240V AC ± 10 %
Nominal frequency: 50‑60 Hz
Power draw: 650 VA
Fuses: 5 x 20 mm, VDE / UL listed
100-120 V: quick acting fuse F 6.30 A L250 VAC
230-240 V; quick acting fuse F 3.15 A L250 VAC
IEC 1010 classification: Protection class 1
Overvoltage category: II
Pollution degree: 2
International protection class: IP20
A‑weighted noise level: ≤ 70 dB (A)
Performance parameters
Slide throughput depending on selected protocol:
max. 600 slides /h
min. 200 slides /h
Loading capacity: max. 11 specimen slide holders
Capacity of one specimen slide 30 slides
holder:
Overall number of stations: 26
Reagent stations: min. 18
Volume of reagent vessels: 450 ml
Overall number fo water stations: max. 5 (DI water optional)
Number of oven chambers: 1
Temperature of oven chamber: Ambient temperature or +30 to +65 °C
Incubation time setting: 0 s to 99 min 59 s
Overall number of loading / unloading 1 / 1
stations:
Capacity of nonvolatile storage: 15 programs with up to 25 steps
Integration: Connection with CV5030 (coverslipper, optional)
Fresh water connection
Hose material: PVC
Hose length: 2.5 m
Connecting piece: G3/8
Inner diameter: 10 mm
Outer diameter: 16 mm
Internal pressure: Min. 1 bar / max. 6 bar
Required flow rate: Min. 12 l/ min
This chapter provides instructions on how to install the Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010). It also includes
a diagram and detailed description of the instrument's components. The procedure for replacing the
active carbon filter for protection against reagent vapors is outlined as well.
• The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) must be connected to a laboratory water tap with a pressure
reducer.
Warning
Inadequate lifting and transportation of the instrument
Injury of persons and/or property damage
• Do not try to lift the instrument with less than 4 persons.
• Grab the instrument under the frame at all corners and lift it evenly.
1. Grip the instrument with at least 4 persons at all corners and evenly lift the instrument.
2. Place the instrument onto the bench (→ p. 20 – 4.1 Installation site requirements).
3. Pull off plastic cover.
4. Check whether all accessories have been delivered as per your order.
The instrument will emit 3 short beeps and the Main Menu will be displayed.
When the instrument is not in use, set the ON/STOP switch on the side to STOP.
The ON/OFF switch on the rear side of the instrument should be left ON.
Warning
The instrument must never be operated without the power supply jumper cable.
The instrument must be connected to a grounded power socket.
Connect the water hose to the water connection on the rear side of the instrument. Attach the other end
of the hose to the cold-water tap. The hose has a 3/4" connector. Then slowly turn the tap on all the way.
Note
The water filter must be in place when the water hose is connected, otherwise water can leak out.
Connect the drain hose to the discharge nozzle on the rear side of the instrument.
An interruption of the staining process can be avoided in the event of a temporary power failure by
connecting an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
A compact UPS can be connected easily as shown in (→ Fig. 4) via the power supply jumper cable.
The UPS should be designed for an output of 200 VA for a duration of 5 minutes. However, the UPS will
not maintain operation of the oven.
The UPS must be designed for power supply voltage at the installation location. Your distributor will
gladly recommend a UPS that is suitable for you.
Fig. 4
The optional remote alarm is an interlock relay that is voltage-isolated from the rest of the instrument.
When there is an alarm condition (a major operational malfunction or a power failure during a staining
run with a UPS connected), the alarm circuit closes and the alarm sounds.
Note
If you need a remote alarm that sounds even if there is a power failure, you have to use a battery-
operated remote alarm.
The remote alarm will only operate during a power failure if a UPS is connected. For details on how to
connect a remote alarm, contact your distributor.
The remote alarm must be designed for less than 1 A and a maximum of 50 V.
Connect the remote alarm to the connection socket on the rear side of the instrument using a phono
jack (6.25 mm).
Fumes are extracted through the active carbon filter, which must be changed every three months (with
average usage).
To change the filter, remove the cover plate over the filter (→ Fig. 2‑19). Use the straps provided to
remove the filter. Put in a new filter and reattach the cover.
4.7 Oven
Introduction
This chapter describes how to operate Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010). It includes information on how
to use the function keys and displays in the control panel. It also describes how to create and edit
programs as well as how to stain specimen slides.
Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) offers many features not found in other stainers. In particular, the
specimen slide holders are loaded and unloaded not by opening the cover, but by means of drawers.
Once the instrument is able to accept a new specimen slide holder, the LED by the load drawer lights
up. After a specimen slide holder has been loaded, the LOAD key must be pressed for the instrument
to begin the staining run. Similarly, if the staining run for a specimen slide holder has finished, the LED
by the exit drawer lights up. After the specimen slide holder has been removed, the EXIT key must
be pressed so that the instrument knows this has been done. Programs can be ended at any station.
However, if the exit drawer is not the program's last step, then the LCD will display which station to
unload the holder from. In this case, the instrument's cover will have to be opened to remove the holder.
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) can accept a new specimen slide holder as soon as the LOAD
LED on the load drawer lights up. This makes it possible to process up to 11 specimen slide holders
simultaneously.
Each specimen slide holder can be processed according to any of the 15 programs, provided that the
corresponding reagents are available and the program chosen is compatible (no conflicting sequence)
with the programs already being used.
Operation
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) is operated using the control panel, the LOAD and UNLOAD keys and
corresponding LEDs, and audible signals.
The control panel consists of an LCD, the keypad and four LEDs.
Fig. 5
The display has a backlit LCD with four lines. The fourth line is usually reserved for commands
associated with the function keys [F1] to [F4]. A flashing cursor appears under the settings that the user
can change.
The keypad
The membrane keypad incorporates 4 function keys and 4 arrow keys. The function keys perform the
actions that appear immediately above them in the fourth line of the display. The arrow keys move the
cursor in the direction indicated. They are also used to select digits and other settings.
Note
Contact with solvents, use of sharp instruments or excessive force may damage the membrane
keypad.
The four LEDs are located below the arrow keys and have the following functions: The UNLOAD LED
(yellow flashing) indicates that a specimen slide holder has been fully processed and is ready to be
removed from a station (except the exit drawer). The staining LED (yellow) is lit when staining is in
progress. The alarm LED (red) indicates that a malfunction has occurred. The power LED (green) signals
that the power supply voltage is available (ON/OFF switch and ON/STOP switch are both switched ON).
The LOAD and EXIT keys and associated LED indicators are located adjacent to the load and exit
drawers. For more information, see (→ p. 34 – 5.9.4 Loading specimen slide holders) and (→ p. 36 –
5.9.7 Interrupting staining).
Audible signals
When the ON/STOP switch has been turned ON, the Main Menu appears and the instrument beeps
3 times.
SELECT PROGRAM
Programm wählen
LOAD
Laden
SET UP OVEN
Parameter einstellen Wärmekammer
DIPS (agitation)
Auf- und
Abbewegung
PC CONTROL
Steuerung über PC
Fig. 6
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) can store up to 15 programs, numbered consecutively from 1 to 15.
Programming is easy. The user is guided through a menu and enters all information via the keypad.
Caution
Specimen slide holder processed with wrong program parameters
Damage or loss of tissue
• Always double‑check program parameters of user‑specific programs before you start
processing.
A program consists of 25 steps, some of which may be blank. A step consists of the following
information:
The step number defines the order in which the stations are used. The incubation time is the time the
specimen slide holder is fully immersed in a station.
Times may overlap when multiple specimen slide holders are being processed simultaneously, therefore
the steps requiring precise adherence to the specified dwell time are designated as exact in the
program. Therefore incubation times at these steps have priority and are adhered to with an accuracy
of ± 1 second. Specimen slide holders that are in a step that was designated not exact are processed
further as soon as the transport arm is available for that.
Warning
Programs assigned to specimen slide holders currently being processed cannot be altered, neither
can steps be copied into them.
The menu overview (→ p. 27 – 5.3 Menu overview) provides an overview of the programming
structure.
The first step of the program is displayed under the following headings:
4. Move the cursor under the step number and use the and keys to call up steps 1 to 25 of
the program. Alternatively, press [F2] Next to move to the next step.
5. To enter the appropriate information, use the and keys to position the cursor beneath
the appropriate heading. Scroll through the existing information or alter the digits using the
and keys.
Enter the program details and, after each item of a step is completed, use the and keys
to move to the next heading.
Warning
An incubation time of 00:00 means that this step will be omitted.
1. Select the program (see items 1 to 3 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Select the step to be deleted (see item 4, (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
3. Press [F3] Erase.
Then the step is left blank.
You may enter new details for the step, if desired.
4. Save the program (→ p. 30 – 5.4.5 Saving a program).
1. Call up the program (see items 1 and 2 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Press [F2] Edit.
3. Select the step number where the new (blank) step is to be inserted.
4. Press [F1] More.
5. Press [F1] More.
6. Press [F1] Insert.
7. If you wish to proceed, press [F1] Yes.
A blank step is inserted now at the step selected under item 3.
Note
The steps following the blank step will be renumbered. Step 25 is lost when a blank step is inserted.
This function is used to remove blank steps left by deleting one or more program steps.
LL Steps will then be renumbered in the same sequence as in the original program.
1. Select the program (see items 1 and 2 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Press [F2] Edit.
3. Press [F1] More.
4. Press [F1] More.
1. From the Edit Program screen, press [F4] Quit. You now have the options of saving the edited
program [F1], leaving the program as it was before the changes were made [F2], or continuing
to edit the program [F4].
2. Press [F1] to save the program, or
3. Press [F2] to leave the program unchanged, or
4. Press [F4] to continue editing the program.
1. Select the program (see items 1 and 2 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Press [F2] Edit.
3. Press [F1] More.
4. Press [F1] More.
5. Press [F2] Delete.
6. Press [F1] Yes to continue.
7. To save the program (which now contains no steps), see above.
1. Select a corresponding program (see items 1 and 2 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Press [F1] Copy.
Note
If an empty program has been selected, a corresponding message appears in the display.
3. Using the and keys, select the program number into which the program is to be copied.
4. Press [F1] Copy.
Note
If the selected program number is not blank, a corresponding message appears in the display.
If the selected program number is assigned to a specimen slide holder currently being processed,
copying is not allowed and a corresponding message appears in the display.
To view a program:
1. Select the program (see items 1 and 2 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Press [F3] View.
Up to four steps can be viewed simultaneously. Use the and keys to view other steps.
3. Press [F4] to return to the previous screen.
This function is used to check whether two programs can be run simultaneously. Programs cannot be
run in parallel if they would need to control two identical stations defined as "exact" simultaneously, or if
they contain two identical stations in reverse order, as in the following example:
Program 1 Program 2
Station 1 Station 1
Station 2 Station 3
Station 3 Station 2
1. Select the program (see items 1 and 2 (→ p. 28 – 5.4.1 Entering program steps)).
2. Press [F2] Edit.
3. Press [F1] More.
4. Press [F2] Check.
5. Using the and keys, select the program number to be checked for compatibility.
6. Press [F2] Check.
A message appears in the display to inform you of whether or not the programs are compatible.
7. If the programs are not compatible, an explanation will be given. Press [F4] to continue.
8. Repeat items 5 and 6 to check the compatibility with other programs.
9. Press [F4] to return to the program selected under item 1.
Note
In many cases, incompatibility of staining protocols can be traced to assignment of the wash stations.
Therefore, these stations can be selected by the user.
(→ p. 47 – 11.3 Compatible staining programs) gives some examples of staining protocols that are
compatible with each other.
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) has multiple parameters that pertain to operation of the instrument
regardless of the selected program. These parameters can be set by the user (refer also to (→ p. 45 –
11.1 Adjustable parameters)):
• Oven temperature.
• Number of up/down movements (dips) of a specimen slide holder within a station.
• Time for one complete movement up and down (dip).
• Time for the process to remove a specimen slide holder from a station.
• Time for the process to insert a specimen slide holder into a station.
5.6 Oven
The oven temperature can be set between 35 and 65 °C, or the oven can stay turned OFF.
Note
The oven operates during the entire staining process with the respectively specified temperature
setting, even if it is not used.
The number of times the specimen slide holder moves up and down (dips) after being inserted into a
station can be set to OFF, in the range 1 - 20 or continuous.
Note
If continuous movement was selected, then only one specimen slide holder from the instrument can
be processed at a time.
Note
The time for one complete movement up and down (dip) is set in the menu (Setup/Move).
Use the selected time as a guide when setting the number of dips.
If the incubation time for a selected number is too short, only the number of dips that fit into the
specified incubation time will be done.
You can set the number and duration of dips of the specimen slide holder to suit the duration and
special requirements of the staining run (→ p. 45 – 11.1 Adjustable parameters).
5.9 Staining
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) can accept a new specimen slide holder as soon as the load drawer
is empty. Then the specimen slides are stained according to the program selected for the respective
holder. Different programs may be used simultaneously, provided they are compatible. The method for
checking compatibility is described on (→ p. 31 – 5.4.9 Checking the compatibility of programs).
Reagent containers can be individually removed for filling. Each container holds 450 ml. The filling level
mark is on the inside. After being filled, they are put in the instrument at the position designated in the
corresponding programs.
To make the containers easier to identify, a label can be inscribed or attached on the side directly
above where the handle is connected.
A schematic drawing of the individual stations is inside the instrument on the back panel (→ Fig. 2‑18).
Make sure that the containers are inserted correctly and that all handles are folded to the correct
side so that they do not obstruct transport of the specimen slide holders. Lids are provided to reduce
evaporation of solvent while the reagent containers are not in use. The containers of the load and
exit drawers can also be filled with a reagent, if desired. However, the instrument will not monitor the
incubation times in these two stations.
The wash system consists of five flow-through wash stations, each capable of holding one specimen
slide holder. Water is supplied through the opening in the container floor and drains through the cut-out
at the upper left edge.
Note
The floor of the station has a locating pin, which means the station can be used only in one direction.
Be careful when removing or inserting wash containers, because using excessive force may damage
the seals. Wet the O-ring before inserting the wash station.
To use the wash station, slowly open the water tap in the lab all the way. The flow control valve in the
Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) limits the flow rate in the wash stations to an optimum value of 8 liters/
minute.
Note
If the flow rate drops below this value for any reason, the wash period specified in the program may
have to be extended.
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) has a water-saving function that stops the flow of water when none
of the wash stations is in use and the reagent residue has been flushed out of them.
Specimen slide holders are inserted into the instrument only via the load drawer, which is on the front
right side of the instrument. Reach several fingers into the recess on the underside of the drawer,
release the lever by gently pushing it up and pull the drawer out as far as it will go.
Caution
Specimen slide holders not unloaded in a timely manner from exit drawer
Delay of processing time and damage of tissue
• Unload the exit drawer in time, close the exit drawer and press EXIT.
When a specimen slide holder is in the exit station, the [EXIT] LED will be on and the beeper will sound
every 30 seconds.
1. Open the exit drawer carefully and remove the holder. Alternatively, you can remove the entire
reagent container including the holder and replace it with another.
2. Close the drawer and press the [EXIT] key. Then the LED will go out.
Note
If the [EXIT] key is not pressed, the instrument will be unable to finish processing other holders that
require this station.
If the final step in a program is not the exit drawer, the [UNLOAD] LED on the control panel will flash
when processing of the holder is complete.
To unload:
Note
For unloading, below steps must be carried out as quickly as possible. In the case of delays, the
staining quality of other samples within the device may be negatively impacted.
Clean the interior stainless steel surfaces with a detergent and then rinse them with water. Clean the
transport arm surfaces by wiping them with a damp cloth.
Warning
The transport arm contains sensitive electronic components, therefore do not use any liquid in this
area. Wipe clean only.
The drainage system may be flushed with 5 % sodium hypochlorite to inhibit bacterial growth. However,
metal parts must not be in contact with this solution for prolonged periods (such as overnight). Flush
well with water afterwards. Painted exterior surfaces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and then
wiped with a damp cloth.
Note
Do not use solvent on the outer surfaces, particularly the control panel and the cover!
Remove the wash containers and clean them with detergent. Reagent and rinsing water vessels can be
cleaned in a dishwasher, at a maximum temperature of 65 °C, using a standard, commercially available
detergent for lab dishwashers. The handles can remain attached to the various vessels during this
process.
Caution
Reagent containers not cleaned or cleaned insufficiently
Damage or loss of tissue
• Clean reagent containers regularly according the instruction.
6.4 Oven
Regularly check the wax tray on the oven floor and clean it if you find excessive wax residue.
Caution
Water drainage not cleaned or cleaned insufficiently
Insufficient staining quality, loss of tissue or property damage
• Check and clean the draining system regularly for correct flow.
1. To clean the water draining system, remove the rinsing water vessels and all surrounding
reagent vessels.
2. The remaining reagent vessels have to be covered with lids.
3. Remove the drainage sieve and clean it if necessary.
4. Place one to two cleaning tablets with active oxygen (e.g. a denture cleanser) into the drain
and dissolve in water to remove various residue (reagents, bacteria, fungi, algae).
5. Then, clean the entire curved drainage area inside the instrument with a long, flexible brush.
6. Check the flow by flushing thoroughly with water.
7. Insert the drainage sieve again, and put the vessels back in their original, defined positions.
8. Remove any lids from vessels before processing specimen slide holders into them.
Introduction
The Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) has a system that continually monitors the instrument's functions. It
displays a corresponding error message if any errors occur. If a minor error occurs during staining, the
instrument will first attempt to correct the problem on its own. If this is unsuccessful, then a message
appears and the instrument waits for the user to rectify the problem.
Some errors trigger an audible alarm. This alarm can be turned off by pressing [F1] Quiet.
Error messages and their meaning are listed on the following pages.
Warranty
Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH guarantees that the contractual product delivered has been
subjected to a comprehensive quality control procedure based on the Leica in-house testing standards,
and that the product is faultless and complies with all warranted technical specifications and/or
agreed-upon characteristics.
The scope of the warranty is based on the contents of the contract concluded. The warranty terms
of your Leica sales organization or the organization from which you have purchased the contractual
product shall apply exclusively.
Service information
If you are in need of technical customer support or spare parts, please contact your Leica
representative or the Leica dealer where you purchased the instrument.
Warning
To prevent damage to the instrument and specimens, only those accessories and spare parts that
have been authorized by Leica may be installed or used with the instrument.
Caution
The instrument or parts of the instrument must be disposed of according to existing applicable, local
regulations. All objects contaminated with spilled reagents must be disinfected immediately with a
suitable disinfectant to prevent spreading to other areas of the lab or to lab personnel.
Please refer to (→ p. 38 – 6. Care and Cleaning) and (→ p. 43 – 9. Decommissioning and disposal)
for information about cleaning the Leica Autostainer XL (ST5010) stainer.
The instrument can be contaminated when using biohazardous specimens. Thorough disinfecting is
required before re‑commissioning or disposal (e.g. multiple cleaning steps, disinfection or sterilization).
Dispose of the instrument in compliance with the applicable laboratory specifications.
Instrument components such as the computer, monitor, etc. that are labeled
with the crossed-out dust bin are affected by the European Directive 2002/96/
EC for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) of the European
Parliament and the Council of January 27, 2003.
These objects must be disposed of via the collection points in accordance with
the local regulations. More information on disposal of the instrument can be
obtained from your local disposal company or your local Leica support staff.
Every product that is returned to Leica Biosystems or that requires on‑site maintenance must be
properly cleaned and decontaminated. You can find the dedicated template of the decontamination
confirmation on our website www.LeicaBiosystems.com within the product menu. This template has to
be used for gathering all required data.
When returning a product, a copy of the filled and signed confirmation has to be enclosed or passed on
to the service technician. The responsibility for products that are sent back without this confirmation
or with an incomplete confirmation lies with the sender. Returned goods that are considered to be a
potential source of danger by the company will be sent back at the expense and risk of the sender.
Note
To prevent damage to the instrument and specimens, only those accessories and spare parts that
have been authorized by Leica may be installed or used with the instrument.
Consumables
Active carbon filter 14 0474 32273
Accessories
Leica TS5015 - transfer station 14 0506 38050
Accessories
Baseplate for workstation 14 0475 37647
Specimen slide holders for special staining 14 0475 34524
Insert for special staining 14 0475 34525
Holder for large individual specimen slides 14 0456 27069
Specimen slide holders 30, metal 14 0456 33919
Wash station, assembly 14 0456 35268
Holding frame for a specimen slide holder 14 0456 35434
Plastic rack 30 (specimen slide holder for 30 specimen slides) 14 0475 33750
Specimen slide holder for 30 specimen slides, Type Leica, plastic, 5 pcs. 14 0475 33643
Adapter Sakura (specimen slide holder 140474 33463 14 0475 34515
Adapter Medite 20 14 0475 34516
Adapter Medite 30 14 0475 34517
Adapter Shandon 14 0475 34518
Adapter Microm 30 14 0475 34943
Reagent vessel, assembly, with lid and transport handle 14 0475 33659
Cover, without slots for reagent vessel 14 0475 34488
Cover, with slots for reagent vessel 14 0475 34486
Cover for 12 vessels, assembly 14 0475 33644
Holding bracket (stand for one reagent vessel) 14 0456 35445
Dummy plugs (sealing plugs for wash vessel) 14 0456 35393
Supply hose for rinsing water, 2.50 m, assembly with 3/4" connection 14 0474 32325
Outlet hose, 4 m 14 0475 35748
Exhaust air hose, 2 m, assembly including adapter for fume hood 14 0475 35762
Exhaust air hose, 4 m, assembly including adapter for fume hood 14 0475 35763
Drip tray (wax collecting bowl for oven) 14 0456 35216
O-ring 3 x 2 mm FKM (O-ring for hook) 14 0253 35822
O-ring 7.65 x 1.78 FKM (O-ring for wash vessel) 14 0253 34214
V filter 3/4" 40/22 H6 (wax strainer). 14 0456 36101
Staining protocol block 14 0456 35459
Remote alarm device for exit drawer 14 0456 30906
Note
Wash stations 1 to 4 (and the stations in between) are used in the same sequence in both programs.
These two programs are compatible with each other, but not with the programs on (→ p. 48 –
Compatible staining programs).
CURSOR A flashing cursor appears on the LCD under the parameters that the user can
change.
DISPLACEMENT The amount of REAGENT transferred by the SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER from
one STATION to another.
EXACT IMMERSION The IMMERSION TIME is kept at 1 second, exactly as programmed.
EXIT DRAWER Drawer into which the instrument inserts the SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER for
subsequent removal by the user.
EXTRACTION Noxious REAGENT vapors are extracted by a fan using a filter.
HEAD see TRANSPORT ARM
HOOK ON Process in which the TRANSPORT ARM gets hooked on the SPECIMEN SLIDE
HOLDER before PICKING UP.
IMMERSION TIME The time that a SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER stays in a reagent STATION.
It counts the time from the end of the LOWERING to the beginning of the
PICKUP.
INCUBATION TIME see IMMERSION TIME
INEXACT IMMERSION The IMMERSION TIME is reached as programmed or extended to ensure
compatibility with other, exactly defined times.
LCD The LCD on the control panel.
LEDs Light emitting diodes on the control panel and on the LOAD DRAWERS and
EXIT DRAWERS.
LOAD DRAWER Drawer into which the user inserts the SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER and from
which this is removed by the TRANSPORT ARM for STAINING.
LOWERING The SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER is inserted into a STATION by the TRANSPORT
ARM.
OVEN STATION with warm air flowing through it to dry the SPECIMEN SLIDES so
that the tissue sections adhere to them.
PC IBM-compatible personal computer
PICKING UP The SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER is removed from a STATION with the
TRANSPORT ARM in such a way that only minimal REAGENT DISPLACEMENT
takes place in the process.
PROGRAM Series of STEPS to which the SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER is subjected for
STAINING in the instrument.
REAGENT Chemicals used for STAINING.
REAGENT STATION REAGENT-filled container, into which the SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDERS are
inserted.
SETUP Parameter setting required for operating the instrument regardless of the
program used, for example, the temperature of the OVEN and the number of
UP/DOWN MOVEMENTS (DIPS).
SOLVENT Organic liquid, such as xylene and ethanol
SPECIMEN SLIDE Specimen slides made of glass 25 x 75 x 1 mm
SPECIMEN SLIDE Frame on which the SPECIMEN SLIDES sit to make for easier handling with
HOLDER the instrument.
STAINING The process in which the tissue sections are stained.
STATION Part on the inside of the instrument, where part of the STAINING occurs.
STEP Defined by the STATION, IMMERSION TIME and time accuracy for a certain
process in the STAINING process.
TRANSFER ARM Device that moves in the x-, y- and z-directions for PICKING UP or
LOWERING, MOVING UP/DOWN (DIPPING) and TRANSPORTING the
SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDERS from STATION to STATION.
UNHOOK Process in which the TRANSPORT ARM separates from the SPECIMEN SLIDE
HOLDER after the LOWERING or after the IMMERSION PROCESSES.
UNLOADING Removal of a SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER from the EXIT DRAWER or from a
station in which the STAINING run is ended.
UP/DOWN The SPECIMEN SLIDE HOLDER is moved up and down (dipped) after being
MOVEMENT inserted into a REAGENT STATION. The number of up/down movements (dips)
can be programmed.
UPS (battery backup) Uninterruptible power supply that allows STAINING to continue during brief
power failures.
WASH STATION Container through which water flows to wash REAGENT from a SPECIMEN
SLIDE HOLDER and the SPECIMEN SLIDES in it.