I keep getting deck scan errors

If deck scan errors occur regularly on the Microlab Prep, use the troubleshooting tips in this article to understand why and improve performance.

Solution 1: Check the Labware

1. Make sure the correct labware is securely placed in the site’s corner brackets. If your labware is not listed in the Prep’s library, learn how to get the labware added.
2. Check the site’s corner brackets. If any are loose, they could be affecting the labware’s placement. Tighten any loose brackets.
3. Check any restrictions for the labware type. For example, a reagent reservoir rack may only be loaded on one of the front two sites, and the metal lip of the rack must be facing forward.
4. Rescan the deck. If the error occurs again, try the next solution.

Solution 2: Calibrate the Camera

1. Exit the protocol to the home screen.
2. Tap the settings button with the gear icon at the top-right corner of the home page.
3. Open the Instrument tab and select System Calibration.
4. Select Camera and tap Run. If the calibration fails, contact us.
5. Reopen your protocol and rescan the deck. If you keep getting frequent deck scan errors, try the next solution.

Solution 3: Check the Lighting

1. Exit the protocol to the home screen.
2. Tap the settings button with the gear icon at the top-right corner of the home page.
3. Open the Diagnostics tab and select Vision.
4. Check the image of the deck for any abnormalities. If the ambient lighting appears irregular, there may be a problem with the LED lights. If this is the case, proceed to the next step. If there are glitches in the image itself, there may be a problem with the camera; in this case, you should contact us.
5. Return to Diagnostics and select Devices.
6. Open the Peripherals tab and select Lights.
7. Use each slider to test the LED lights. Test each color of light at both 50% and 100%; only white light is used during a deck scan, but a problem with the lights may not be apparent when testing white light.
   
   If an LED appears to be off or broken, contact us.
8. If the LEDs are working despite irregularities in the Vision diagnostic, try moving the Prep. Sometimes irregularities in the ambient light can interfere with labware recognition.
   1. Turn off the Prep and disconnect it from power.
   2. Using at least two people, move the Prep to a location with more consistent ambient light. Make sure the new location can accommodate the weight and dimensions of the Prep, and has access to power.
   3. Turn on and calibrate the Prep. Follow the Solution 2 instructions to calibrate the camera, then run the calibration for the pipetting tools as well.
   4. Reopen your protocol and rescan the deck. If the new location works, double-check that it meets all requirements for the Prep’s installation site. The requirements are listed both in the welcome packet and the User’s Manual.