0

Host Interface Manual

for

STA, STA-Compact, STA-Rack

Coagulation Analyzer

ID.No. 1704559-001
Document Version 1.3

Host Interface Manual

Document Name:
Author:
Printed:

BMSTAHI.DOC
Claus Mahlmann
05/08/99 08:08

Roche Diagnostics
Global System Support

STA

STA

Host Interface Manual

DISCLAIMER
ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO
THE CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO CASE SHALL ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS BE LIABLE FOR
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

COPYRIGHT
COPYRIGHT 1997, BY ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS. ALL RIGHT RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS
PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF
ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS.

VERSION HISTORY
Version

Date

Modifications

1.0

June 1995

first version

1.1

November 1997

1.2

May 1998

WARRANTY and VERSION HISTORY

added
Extension for STA-R
Correction in Terminator Record table

1.3

July 1999

Extension for STA-R Extended Protocol,

STA-R host-relevant operating

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Host Interface Manual

Contents:
1. INTRODUCTION

2. INTERFACE SETUP

2.1. Data Cable

2.2. Pin Description
2.3. Transmission Specifications

3. HOST INTERFACE SPECIFIC OPERATION OF THE USER SOFTWARE

3.1. Operating of STA, STA-Compact User Software
3.1.1. Setting up Host Interface Parameters (Std-Bi)
3.1.2. Setting up Host Interface Parameters (ASTM)
3.1.3. Setting up Method Ranking
3.1.4. Loading Samples
3.1.5. Transmitting Results in Real-Time Mode
3.1.6. Trasmitting Results in Batch Mode
3.1.7. Transmitting Quality Control Results in Batch Mode
3.1.8. Requesting Worklists in Batch Mode
3.1.9. Calculating the Access Code
3.1.10. User Maintenance (Std-Bi)
3.1.11. User Maintenance (ASTM)
3.1.12. Service Maintenance
3.2. Operating of STA-R User Software
3.2.1. Setting up Host Interface Parameters
3.2.2. Setting up Method Ranking
3.2.3. Requesting Worklists in Real-Time Mode
3.2.4. Transmitting Worklists in Batch Mode
3.2.5. Transmitting Results in Real-Time Mode
3.2.6. Transmitting Results in Batch Mode
3.2.7. Transmitting QC Results in Batch Mode
3.2.8. Host Alarm Window

4. STD-BI PROTOCOL
4.1. Definitions
4.1.1. Trace Format (Std-Bi)
4.1.2. Checksum Calculation (Std-Bi)
4.2. Data Transmission Control (Std-Bi)
4.2.1. Establishment Phase
4.2.2. Worklist Request / Worklist
4.2.3. Result Transmission
4.2.4. Line Test
4.2.5. Termination Phase

5. ASTM PROTOCOL
5.1. Data Transmission Control (ASTM)
5.1.1. Common Transmission Procedure
5.1.2. Communication Phases
5.1.3. Flow Charts
5.1.4. Message Structure
5.2. Record Structure
5.2.1. Record Types
5.2.2. General Record Format
5.2.3. Checksum Calculation (ASTM)
5.2.4. Record Details
5.3. Trace Examples (ASTM)
5.3.1. Worklist Request from STA to Host
5.3.2. Worklist from Host to STA (STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

8
8
9

10
10
10
11
14
17
21
22
23
23
24
25
26
28
30
30
31
33
34
35
36
38
39

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40
40
40
41
41
43
47
53
55

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56
56
57
58
63
64
64
64
64
65
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5.3.3.
5.3.4.
5.3.5.
5.3.6.
5.3.7.

Worklist from Host to STA (STA-R Extended)

Routine Result Transmission (STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)
Routine Result Transmission (STA-R Extended)
Quality Control Result Transmission (STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)
Quality Control Result Transmission (STA-R Extented)

STA

75
76
77
78
79

6. FIGURES AND TABLES

80

6.1. List of Figures

6.2. List of Tables
6.3. List of Trace Examples

80
81
81

APPENDIX A - ALARM MESSAGES (STA, STA-C)

82

APPENDIX B - ALARM MESSAGES (STA-R)

83

APPENDIX C - ASCII CHART

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1. Introduction
rd

This manual describes the connection of the STA Analyzer to a 3 Party Laboratory Host System via
an RS232C asynchronous serial port. It details the communication protocols, the required hardware,
and considerations to be taken when interfacing different computer systems.
The following fundamental questions are considered:
Hardware
What interface hardware is required?
How is the physical connection established?
Operation and Data Transmission
How to set transfer and communication parameters?
What is the format of the transmitted data and how is it used?
What type of data can be transmitted?
How is the data transfer initiated?
Software
What communication protocol is used?
What are the Hosts software requirements?
The following protocols are described in this manual:
Instrument

Protocol

STA

Standard bidirectional protocol

ASTM protocol

STA-Compact

ASTM protocol

STA-Rack

ASTM Strict protocol

ASTM Extended protocol

The ASTM protocols of STA, STA-Compact and STA-R Strict are compatible !
In case of difficulty please contact the responsible person of Roche Diagnostics Service Department:
Roche Diagnostics
Global System Support
Sandhofer Strae 116
D-68305 Mannheim

Tel:
Fax:

(49) 621 / 759-2464

(49) 621 / 759-4519

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2. Interface Setup
2.1. Data Cable

Figure 1 : Data Cable Wiring Diagram

Figure 1 illustrates the wiring of the data cable used to connect the STA analyzer to the Host.
Connect to the 9-pin male socket at the rear of the analyzer.

2.2. Pin Description

Pin no

Signal

Explanation

Direction

Txd

Transmit Data

out

Rxd

Receive Data

in

SG

Signal Ground

Table 1 : Pin-Out Descriptions

Table 1 gives the pin-out descriptions of the used pins. None of the handshake lines is used. They
remain unconnected.

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2.3. Transmission Specifications

The data transmission specifications are given below.
Item

Specification

Remarks

Interface

RS232C Asynchronous Serial

Interface

Max. Cable
Length 15m

Handshaking

Software

Communication Method

Half Duplex

Character Code

ASCII

Table 2 : Transmission Specification

Host Interface Manual

3. Host Interface Specific Operation of the User Software

3.1. Operating of STA, STA-Compact User Software
3.1.1. Setting up Host Interface Parameters (Std-Bi)
All Host interface settings are made in SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2
Access to the GLOBAL OPTIONS screen requires the 6-digit access code.
(see 3.1.9.1. Calculation Method of the Access Code on page 24)
Successful entry of the access code displays GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 1/2. Press <PageDown> to
display the following screen:

Figure 2 : STA Global Options Screen (Std-Bi)

GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2 shows the following options for the Std-Bi protocol:
Protocol
Selection of the protocol type
Range: Std-Bi/ASTM
Station Number
2-digit Instrument Identification Number
Range: 0 to 99
Baud Rate
Baud rate of the serial interface (baud = bits per second)
Range: 9600, 4800, 2400, 1200, 600, 300
Parity
Type of parity check
Range: none, odd or even

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Number of Data Bits

Number of data bits per character
Range: 7 or 8
Number of Stop Bits
Number of stop bits
Range: 1 or 2
Number of On Error Retries
Number of times the STA repeats a message when a [NAK] is received
Range: 1 to 9
Verify Patient Data
YES:
If the worklist from the host contains the info fields they are displayed after receiption in
a separate window for confirmation.
NO:
Even if the worklist from the host contains the info fields they are not displayed for
confirmation.
Range: YES / NO
Checksum Type
7Fh
Each character (except [STX], [ETX] and 7Fh) is XORd with 7Fh. If the result is equal
to 03h then the character is replaced with 7Fh.
OR 40 Each character is ORd with the checksum character and 40h.
Range: 7Fh / 40h
Use Error Codes
Range: YES/NO
Use Alarm Codes
Range: YES/NO
Use Error
Codes

Use Alarm
Codes

Action Taken

NO

NO

Only validated results transmitted

YES

NO

All results sent with Error Code

YES

YES

All results sent with Error/Alarm Code

There are two different tables for Error/Alarm codes. (see Table 10 on page 49)

Waiting Delay Ack/Nack

Time, in seconds, the STA waits for a [ACK] or [NAK] before generating a time out error.
Range: 1 to 99 seconds
Waiting Delay File Downloading
Time, in seconds, the STA waits for a Worklist before generating a time out error.
Range: 1 to 99 seconds
ID Type
Format of the 8-character Patient ID.
The STA can define a 16-character Patient ID. For compatibility with the Std-Bi protocol, this is
reduced to 8 characters.
Numerical:
Only Numerical IDs accepted. Values less than 9999999 are padded with
leading zeros (30h).
Alphanum:
Only the first 8 characters are accepted. If the length is less than 8 the input is
padded with leading spaces (20h).
Range: Numerical/Alphanum
Note: Any ID defined with more than 8 characters will not be transmitted.

3.1.2. Setting up Host Interface Parameters (ASTM)

All Host interface settings are made in SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.

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Access to the GLOBAL OPTIONS screen requires the 6-digit access code.
(see 3.1.9.1. Calculation Method of the Access Code on page 24)
Successful entry of the correct access code displays GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 1/2.
Press <PageDown> to display the following screen:

Figure 3 : STA Global Options Screen (ASTM)

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GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2 displays the following options for the ASTM protocol:
Protocol
Selection of the protocol type
Range: Std-Bi/ASTM
Station Number
2-digit Instrument Identification Number
Range: 0 to 99
Baud Rate
Baud rate of the serial interface (baud = bits per second)
Range: 9600, 4800, 2400, 1200, 600, 300
Parity
Type of parity check
Range: none, odd or even
Number of Data Bits
Number of data bits per character
Range: 7 or 8
Number of Stop Bits
Number of stop bits
Range: 1 or 2
Number of On Error Retries
Number of times the STA repeats a frame when it receives a character different from [ACK] or
[EOT]. This number has to be set to 6.
Range: 1 to 9
Verify Patient Data
YES:
The four information fields in the worklist from Host are displayed after receiption in a
separate window for confirmation.
NO:
The four information fields in the worklist from Host are not displayed in a separate
window for confirmation..
Range: YES / NO
ID Type
Format of the 16-character patient ID.
Range: Numerical/Alphanum

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3.1.3. Setting up Method Ranking

The STA analyzer can define one main, and up to 3 auxiliary tests. Each test is given a unique 2-digit
transmission number. This number is used twice during the communication protocol:
1. When a test is selected using the main test transmission number.
2. When the test results are sent to the Host.
Select SETUP TESTS (Page 3/3). A list of installed tests appears. The transmission numbers can be
set here.

Figure 4 : Setup-Tests, Test List

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Selecting a test and pressing <Enter> calls TEST SETUP (Page 1/3). Pressing <PageDown> twice
displays the TRANSMISSION TEST NUMBER setup page.

Figure 5 : Test Setup Screen

The section PRINTOUT / TRANSMISSION contains the items:

Unit
Conversion Factor
Print
Transmission Test Number

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To modify a transmission number, select the number and press <Del>. The following screen will
appear.

Figure 6 : Transmission Numbers List

Select a free number in the test list and press <Enter>. The test number is automatically entered in the
TRANSMISSION TEST NUMBER column (Page 3/3 ).
It is not possible to select an allocated number.
To change a test number return to the TRANSMISSION TEST NUMBER section on Page 3/3. Select a test
number and press <F1> to delete it. The number can now be reused.
Exiting Test Setup gives a prompt to save any changes. The access code must be given.
(see 3.1.9.1. Calculation Method of the Access Code on page 24).

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3.1.4. Loading Samples

The samples are identified and placed in the sample drawer one at a time. The following settings are
required to request a worklist from the Host.
Enter LOADING SAMPLES>DRAWER 1 or press the button at the front of the drawer. The following
screen appears:

Figure 7 : Sample Loading Screen in MANUAL MODE

The cursor is positioned on the ID field. The instrument then waits for a bar-coded sample cup to pass
in front of the bar-code reader, or alternatively, manual input of the bar-code number.
The mode must be changed from MANUAL MODE to AUTO before the instrument requests a worklist
from the Host. To change the mode press <Esc>. A small menu appears in the upper left of the
screen. The options are:
Change Profiles
Change Prefix
AUTO mode
Return to Loading
Quit
Select AUTO mode.

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The Sample Loading screen changes slightly.

Figure 8 : Sample Loading Screen in AUTO MODE

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The profile should be BY TELELOADING. If not, press <Esc> and select CHANGE PROFILE.

Figure 9 : Profile Modification Screen

This menu allows:

Creation of a group of up to 12 tests.
Creation of a default group of tests in AUTO mode.
Downloading.
To download, move the bar to the AUTO row, press <Enter> and type 0 for Downloading.
Press <F10> to save and then <Esc> to Quit and return to the Sample Loading menu.
The work flow is as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

The operator identifies a sample (via manual entry or bar-code reader).

The operator inserts the sample in the drawer.
The STA Analyzer sends a request for a Worklist for that sample.
The Host returns the Worklist (if available).
Repeat the above until all samples are loaded.

The run is initiated upon closing the drawer.

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When the option Verify Patient Data is set to YES in SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2, the STA
analyzer expects the Host to send four extra information fields as part of the worklist.
(see Figure 2 on page 10 and Figure 3 on page 12) These four fields are displayed in a separate
window and must be confirmed with <F10>. (see Figure 10)

Info Field 1
Info Field 2
Info Field 3
Info Field 4

(16 characters)
(12 characters)
(6 characters)
(4 characters)

example below:
example below:
example below:
example below:

Figure 10 : Info Field Window on Reception of Worklist

20

1234567890123456
123456789012
123456
1234

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Host Interface Manual

3.1.5. Transmitting Results in Real-Time Mode

Figure 11 : The Status Menu

Setting the On-Line Transmission option to YES sends the test results as soon as they are available
after the measurement.
Note: A transmission rank should be defined first.
(see 3.1.3. Setting up Method Ranking)

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3.1.6. Transmitting Results in Batch Mode

The operator can repeat the transmission of the run's results in Batch Mode.
Select FILES CONFIRMATION>PRINTOUT>TRANSMISSION. The sample list is then displayed.

Figure 12 : Sample List Screen

Press <Esc> to call up a small menu in the upper left of the display.
This gives the following options:
Change File Selection
Transmit
Print
Quit
Transmit offers the choice of transmitting all, or only new results to the Host.

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At the sample list select the required sample using the cursor keys. Press <Enter> to show a samples
results.

Figure 13 : Results Screen

A single test can be selected and sent to the Host by pressing <F11>.

3.1.7. Transmitting Quality Control Results in Batch Mode

Quality control results are sent to the Host in real-time when the ASTM protocol is selected.
The quality control results can be sent in batch mode after the run:

Select CALIB./CONTROL QUALITY CONTROL

The test list is then displayed.
Select the required test and press <Enter>
Display the result list with <F1>
Transfer the control results with <F11>.

3.1.8. Requesting Worklists in Batch Mode

If real-time request mode failed there is the possibility of sending requests for all samples without
worklist. This can be initiated by the operator on the Test Panel screen by pressing <F11>

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3.1.9. Calculating the Access Code

3.1.9.1. Calculation Method of the Access Code
Certain menus items are only available after a 6-digit access code is entered.
(SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS).

Figure 14 : Entering the Access Code

The access code is derived from the system date and is format dependent:
Digit 1:
Digit 2:
Digit 3:
Digit 4:
Digits 5 and 6:

First digit of day/month

(date format dependent)
First digit of month/day
(date format dependent)
Second digit of day/month (date format dependent)
Second digit of month/day (date format dependent)
Sum of digits 1 to 4 with leading zero if less than 10

3.1.9.2. Access Code Examples

Example 1:
th
Calendar Date:
25 of October, 1994.
System Date:
25/10/1994
Access Code:
215008
Example 2:
System Date:
Access Code:

24

10/25/1994
120508

(date format: DD/MM/YYYY)

(date format: MM/DD/YYYY)

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Host Interface Manual

3.1.10. User Maintenance (Std-Bi)

The USER MAINTENANCE menu is accessed via the main menu option Maintenance.

Figure 15 : Main Menu of User Maintenance.

Select menu option Host Computer Communications to display the communication parameters:

Figure 16 : User Maintenance Parameters and Test Functions (Std-Bi).

Modify the parameters via the SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.
(see Figure 2 on page 10).
Refer to chapter 3.1.1. Setting up Host Interface Parameters (Std-Bi) for an explanation of the
parameters.

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Two test functions are available on this screen:

<F1> Line Test.
<F2> Connect/Disconnect.
3.1.10.1. <F1> Line Test.
When <F1> is pressed the STA analyzer sends: [STX]EF[ETX]
(This is the character E with an incorrect checksum character F).
If the Host returns the expected [NAK] : PASSED is displayed.
If not; FAILED is displayed.
3.1.10.2. <F2> Connect / Disconnect
The <F1> Line Test is made with a check on the return delay from the Host against the parameters
specified in GLOBAL OPTIONS.
The STA analyzer then sends a [SOH] to establish a connection.
If the Host returns the expected [SOH], ON LINE is displayed.
If not; OFF LINE is displayed.
After a successfully establishing a connection the <F2> key just initiates the Line Test.

3.1.11. User Maintenance (ASTM)

The USER MAINTENANCE menu is accessed via the main menu option Maintenance.

Figure 17 : Main Menu of User Maintenance.

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Select HOST COMPUTER COMMUNICATIONS to display the communication parameters:

Figure 18 : User Maintenance Parameters and Test Functions (ASTM).

Modify the parameters via the SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.
(see Figure 3 on page 12).
Refer to 3.1.2. Setting up Host Interface Parameters (ASTM) on page 11 for an explanation of the
parameters.
There is one test function available on this screen:
<F1> Line Test.
The STA Analyzer sends [ENQ] to the Host.
The Host is expected to respond with [ACK].
When the [ACK] is received the STA Analyzer terminates the Line Test with [EOT] and the PASSED
message is displayed.
If the Host failed to respond, FAILED is displayed.

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3.1.12. Service Maintenance

From the main USER MAINTENANCE menu access the SERVICE MAINTENANCE menu by pressing
<Alt>+<F10> and entering the access code.
(see chapter 3.1.9.1. Calculation Method of the Access Code on page 24 for the calculation of this
code)
This is the main SERVICE MAINTENANCE menu:

Figure 19 : Main menu of Service Maintenance

Selecting the menu option Computer System opens another menu with the following options:
Printer
Keyboard
External Serial Line
Beep
Monitor
Return to previous menu

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The option External Serial Line opens the serial interface screen:

Figure 20 : External Line Test function within Service Maintenance

The baud rate, parity, number of data and number of stop bits are defined from the start up window.
Confirm the configuration with <F10>.
From this point on all keyboard input is sent via COM2 to the Host.
There are two test modes which are selected by the <F1> and <F2> keys:
1. <F1> Plug Mode
Placing a 'Loop Back' connector at rear of the STA allows typed characters to be received and
displayed in the Received Characters window.
This plug directly connects the Transmit and Receive pins (2 and 3).
2. <F2> Console Mode
Characters are sent via the Host port to an external device.
These options test the function of COM2 port.

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3.2. Operating of STA-R User Software

3.2.1. Setting up Host Interface Parameters
The host interface parameter setting is done on the SETUP COMMUNICATION screen:

Figure 21 : STA-R - Setup/Communications screen

To change the settings, press the [Modif.] button. The settings may be changed only if the option On
line Transmission on the SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS screen is disabled.

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3.2.2. Setting up Method Ranking

The transmission ranks which are necessary for selecting the test to be measured and to identify the
received results need to be entered on the SETUP TESTS screen in register PRINTOUT/TRANS.

Figure 22 : STA-R - Setup/Printout/Trans. screen

To change the ranking first select the test in the right list, then press the [Modif.] button and enter the
method rank in the column Transmission Rank.

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Pressing the buttons [...] displays the list of all actualy assigned transmission ranks.

Figure 23 : STA-R - List of Transmission Ranks

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3.2.3. Requesting Worklists in Real-Time Mode

If the STA-R shall send automatically worklist requests in real-time mode (= when the samples are
identified by the barcode reader) the option Downloading must be set on the PATIENTS UNLOADING
screen.

Figure 24 : STA-R - Patients/Unloading screen

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3.2.4. Transmitting Worklists in Batch Mode

It is possible to let the STA-R send worklist requests for already loaded samples on the
PATIENTS TEST PANEL screen.
Just select the corresponding samples and then perform the Download Tagged Identities option in the
pull-down menu.

Figure 25 : STA-R - Patients/Test Panel screen

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3.2.5. Transmitting Results in Real-Time Mode

If the STA-R shall transfer the results automatically as soon as available the option On line
transmission on the SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS screen must be set.

Figure 26 : STA-R - Setup/Global Options screen

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3.2.6. Transmitting Results in Batch Mode

In additon to the real-time result transmission the results may also be sent in batch mode (= initiated by
the operator).
This can be done on the PATIENTS TEST PANEL screen by selecting the corresponding samples and
then performing the Upload Tagged Identities option in the pull-down menu.

Figure 27 : STA-R - Patients/Test Panel screen

If the samples are already unloaded the results of the selected samples may be sent by pressing the
Upload button.

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If the racktray was already removed the sample results may also be sent out of the BUFFER FILE.

Figure 28 : STA-R - Buffer File screen

A result upload in batch mode is possible even if the option On line transmission on the
SETUP GLOBAL OPTIONS screen is deselected.

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3.2.7. Transmitting QC Results in Batch Mode

The QC results may also be sent in batch mode from the QUALITY CONTROL screen.
Just select the test, the level and the data point, then press the Transfer button.

Figure 29 : STA-R - Quality Control screen

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3.2.8. Host Alarm Window

In case of host interface error a corresponding alarm window is displayed and depending on the kind of
alarm the communication is interupted (see the red cross on the communication button)
After solving the problem the communication may be continued by pressing the comunication button.

Figure 30 : STA-R - Screen with Host alarm window

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4. Std-Bi Protocol
4.1. Definitions
4.1.1. Trace Format (Std-Bi)
To aid readability the following control character definitions will be used:
Code

Description

Mnemonic

01 hex

Connect Request

[SOH]

02 hex

Start of Text

[STX]

03 hex

End of Text

[ETX]

06 hex

Acknowledge

[ACK]

15 hex

Not Acknowledged

[NAK]

20 hex

Space Character

( = Code 250 )

00 to FF

Checksum Character

[xxh]

Table 3 : Control Character Definitions used in Std-Bi Example Traces

4.1.2. Checksum Calculation (Std-Bi)

The typical Std-Bi protocol text structure is as follows:
Item

Start-of-Text

Text

Checksum

End-of-Text

Length

Variable

Trace

[STX]

[xxh]

[ETX]

Table 4 : Typical Text Format for the Std-Bi Protocol.

The checksum calculation method is defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.

(see Figure 2 on page 10).
4.1.2.1. The 7Fh Checksum Method
1. The Exclusive-OR sum of all characters in the Text section is found.
2. Only if the result has the value 03h it is replaced by the value 7Fh.
4.1.2.2. The OR 40h Checksum Method
1. The Exclusive-OR sum of all characters in the Text section is found.
2. The result ORd by 40h to obtain the final checksum.

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4.2. Data Transmission Control (Std-Bi)

This section describes the complete protocol between the STA analyzer and the Host.

4.2.1. Establishment Phase

4.2.1.1. Objective
After switching the analyzer ON a Global Verification is performed. The STA Analyzer automatically
performs the Line Test (see chapter 4.2.4. Line Test).
If the Line Test fails the STA tries to establish the connection by sending a control character.
If the connection is unsuccessful the operator can request a connection manually via the
MAINTENANCE HOST COMPUTER COMMUNICATIONS menu.
(see chapter 3.1.10. User Maintenance (Std-Bi) )

Protocol:
The STA analyzer sends [SOH].
The Host returns a [SOH] within the pre-determined time.
If the return is not within the specified delay, or not received, the Establishment Phase is considered
false.
4.2.1.2. Data Flow

Connect Control
Character

STA

Host

SOH

SOH

Figure 31 : Establishment Phase with Successful Response.

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4.2.1.3. Flow Chart

Start of
Communication

Send test
character [SOH]

Start Timer

Poll RS232

No
Message
received ?

Yes

Message =
[SOH] ?
Yes

No
ACK delay
time over ?

No

Yes
result =
not connected

Figure 32 : Flow Chart of Establishment Phase (Std-Bi).

4.2.1.4. Trace Example

STA 16:27:05 [SOH]
Host 16:27:05 [SOH]
Trace Example 1 : Establishment Phase

42

result =
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Host Interface Manual

4.2.2. Worklist Request / Worklist

4.2.2.1. Objective
a) Assuming the the STA is configured AUTO MODE and BY TELELOADING, then a worklist request
is sent to the Host after a sample is placed and identified.
b) The Host responds to the worklist request by sending a worklist containing the transmission
numbers of the selected tests.

Protocol:
The STA sends a worklist request Q message and waits for a [ACK] or [NAK] from the Host within the
specified delay. (see GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2).
When the Host responds with [ACK], the STA waits for the worklist T message to arrive within the predefined File Downloading Delay. If unsuccessful that patient sample is regarded as invalid and the
Worklist Not Received error is displayed.
When the Host responds with [NAK], the STA repeats the message until the required Number of On
Error Retries is reached. If all attempts fail then that patient sample is regarded as invalid and the
Worklist Not Received error is displayed.
4.2.2.2. Message Format

Worklist Request
Item

Start-of-Text

Frame ID

Station

Patient ID

Checks

End-of-Text

Length

Trace

[STX]

xx

pppppppp

[cch]

[ETX]

Code

02 hex

51 hex

Note

03 hex
1

Patient ID

Methods

Table 5 : Structure of Worklist Request Message (Std-Bi).

Worklist Type 1 - Without Information Fields

Item
Start-of-Text
Frame ID
Station

Checks

End-of-Text

Length

2 to 24

Trace

[STX]

xx

pppppppp

mm

[cch]

[ETX]

Code

02 hex

51 hex

Note

03 hex
1

Table 6 : Structure of Worklist Message Without Info. (Std-Bi).

Worklist Type 2 - With Information Fields

Item
Start-of-Text
Frame ID Station

Patient ID

Info

Methods

Checks

End-of-Text

Length

38

2 to 24

Trace

[STX]

xx

pppppppp

aaaa...

mm

[cch]

[ETX]

Code

02 hex

51 hex

Note

03 hex
1

Table 7 : Structure of Worklist Message With Info. (Std-Bi).

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Notes:
Note 1: Station Number.
Defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.
Note 2: Patient Identification
Defined as an 8-character numerical or alphanumerical. (see GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2).
The numerical ID is left justified and padded with zeros (30h).
The alphanumeric ID is left justified and padded with spaces (20h).
Note 3: Checksum
Method defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.
Note 4: Methods
This field is repeated up to 12 times depending on the number of methods requested. See
TEST SETUP menu for method ranking. For each method one main unit and one rank is
defined. There are up to 3 ranks for secondary units. The main unit rank is used to determine
the method. The other ranks are only used to send the results.
Note 5: Info
This patient information field must contain the obligatory character / (2F hex) at the end of Info
Field 1.
1) The STA analyzer automatically identifies the format (1 or 2).
2) If format 2 is found the INFO field is truncated as follows:
Info Field 1

16

Characters (including /)

Info Field 2

12

Characters

Info Field 3

Characters

Info Field 4

Characters

38

Characters

Total

The operator is strongly recommended to keep these settings. This ensures a clear patient
information display in the various menus of the STA software.
4.2.2.3. Data Flow

Worklist Request

STA

Host

Request

ACK

ACK

Figure 33 : Worklist Request and Worklist Response

44

Worklist

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4.2.2.4. Flow Chart

Request for
Worklist

Reset Retry
Counter
No
Send Request Q

Cnt > No. of

retries ?

Error:
Worklist not
received

Yes

Start Timer
Nein
Increment retry
counter

Poll RS232

Yes

Yes
Message
received ?

Yes

Message =
[ACK] ?

No

Message =
[NAK] ?

No

End

Yes
Cnt > No. of
retries ?

Reset Retry
Counter

No

No
ACK delay
time over ?

Poll RS232
Increment retry
counter

No
Message
received ?

Yes
Send [NAK]

No
Yes

No

Worklist
Timeout ?

Worklist T ?

No

End

Yes

Message
correct ?
Yes

Yes

Send [ACK]

Error:
Worklist not
received

End

Figure 34 : Flow Chart of Worklist Request (Std-Bi)

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4.2.2.5. Trace Example

a) Worklist with Information Fields
STA 16:27:51 [STX]Q99003[42h][ETX]
Host 16:27:51 [ACK]
Host 16:27:51 [STX]T99003Inf1/Inf2Inf3Inf401
04[49h][ETX]
STA 16:27:51 [ACK]

Analyzer sends worklist request.

STA

16:27:51 [STX]Q99003[42h][ETX]

[STX]
Q
99
003

Start of text (ASCII code 02 hex)

Frame character: Worklist request
Station number : 99
Sample-ID
: 003

End code
[42h]
[ETX]

Code 42 hex represents the checksum character B

End of text (ASCII code 03 hex)

Host sends back the worklist.

Host 16:27:51 [STX]T99003Inf1/Inf2Inf3Inf401
04[49h][ETX]
Start of text (ASCII code 02 hex)
Frame character: Worklist
Station number : 99
Sample-ID
: 003

[STX]
T
99
003
Info fields
Inf1/
Inf2
Inf3
Inf4

Info
Info
Info
Info

Selected methods
0104

Tests with method numbers 1 and 4 selected

End code
[49h]
[ETX]

Code 49 hex represents the checksum character I

End of text (ASCII code 03 hex)

field
field
field
field

1
2
3
4

(16
(12
( 6
( 4

characters)
characters)
characters)
characters)

Trace Example 2 : Worklist Request and Worklist with Info Fields (Std-Bi).

b) Worklist without Info Fields

STA
Host
Host
STA

16:28:10
16:28:10
16:28:10
16:28:10

[STX]Q99......003[42h][ETX]
[ACK]
[STX]T99......0030104[42h][ETX]
[ACK]

See example a) for format explanation.

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4.2.3. Result Transmission

4.2.3.1. Objective
Results are transmitted to the Host in real-time (as and when available), or in batch mode after the
completion of the run (operator initiated).
Protocol:
The STA sends a result R message and waits for a [ACK] or [NAK] from the Host within the specified
delay.
When the Host responds with [ACK], the STA waits 500 msec before sending the message.
If the Host responds with [NAK], the STA repeats the message until the required Number of On Error
Retries is reached. (see GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2)
If all attempts fail then STA stops transmission and reports a communication failure.
4.2.3.2. Message Format
Item

Start-of-Text

Frame ID

Stati.

Patient ID

Zeros

Results

Checks

End-of-Text

Length

see
below

Trace

[STX]

xx

pppppppp

0000

[cch]

[ETX]

Code

02 hex

52 hex

4 * 48 hex

Note

03 hex
3

Table 8 : Structure of Result Message (Std-Bi).

Format of the Results Field:

Test Result 1
Item

....

Method Rank

Value

Alarm

Length

Trace

Mm

RRRR

AA

Note

Test Result n

Notes:
Note 1: Station Number
Defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.
Note 2: Patient Identification
Defined as 8-character numerical or alphanumerical.
(see GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2)
The numerical ID is left justified and padded with zeros (30h).
The alphanumeric ID is left justified and padded with spaces (20h).
Note 3: Checksum
Method defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2.
Note 4: Results
Total Length never exceeds 237 characters. Patient files of greater size are sent as several
messages with the same heading.

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Note 5: Method Rank

See TEST SETUP menu for method ranking definition. For each method one main unit and one
rank is defined. There can be up to 3 ranks for secondary units. The main unit rank is used to
determine the method. The other ranks are only used to send the results.
The field is right justified and padded with zeros (30h).
Note 6: Result Value
The result field RRRR holds an integer value. A division factor is applied to obtain the real
value. See Table 9.
Units

Division Factor

sec

10

INR

100

g/l

100

mg/dl

ratio

100

ng/ml

100

U/ml

100

IU/ml

100

AU1

**

AU2

**

AU3

**

Table 9 : Units and Division Factors

**: Consistent with decimal point position defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 1/2.
The Result Field is right justified and with padded zeros.
Note 7: Error or Error/Alarm Code
There are 2 characters in this field. The first character is always 7Fh. The second character
indicates the Error or Error Alarm Code. (see the tables below)
If Use Error Codes and Use Alarm Codes are both set to NO in GLOBAL OPTIONS Page 2/2
only validated 6-character results are transmitted (2 character method rank and 4 character
value).

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Error Codes
When Use Error Codes = YES and Use Alarm Codes = NO, the following applies:
Characters

ASCII Code

Error Message

31 hex

To be confirmed

32 hex

Technical Error

33 hex

> T max.

34 hex

< T min.

35 hex

Margin > Tolerance

38 hex

R < R min./Colorimetry

41 hex

Confirmed

Table 10 : Error Codes (Std-Bi).

Error and Alarm Codes

When Use Error Codes = YES and Use Alarm Codes = YES, the following applies:
Characters
Group 1

Group 2

Group 3

ASCII Code

Error Message

Alarm Code

32 hex

Technical Error

Not Used

33 hex

T > T max.

Not Used

34 hex

T < T min.

Not Used

35 hex

Margin < Tolerance

Not Used

38 hex

Linearity

Not Used

41 hex

Confirmed

Without

42 hex

Confirmed

43 hex

Confirmed

4F hex

Confirmed

14

31 hex

To be confirmed

Without

62 hex

To be confirmed

63 hex

To be confirmed

6F hex

To be confirmed

14

Table 11 : Error and Alarm Codes (Std-Bi).

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Host Interface Manual

Code
1

STA

Description
Result:

Confirmed with T>max.

Calibration Control:

Overridden

Quality Control:

Out of Range or Not Done

Quality Control:

Overridden

Arm #3:

No Level Detection

Arm #2:

No Level Detection

Arm #1:

No Level Detection

Result:

Value in Primary Unit Skewed

Result:

Dilution Change

10

Result:

Rerun Test

11

Reagent Drawer

Temperature Out of Limits

12

Syringe Arm #3:

Maintenance Data Overdue

13

Syringe Arm #2:

Maintenance Data Overdue

14

Syringe Arm #1:

Maintenance Data Overdue

Table 12 : Alarm Code Descriptions (Std-Bi).

Note: If there are multiple alarms for a result, the highest priority code is transmitted. Code 1 is the
highest of 14 priority levels.

4.2.3.3. Data Flow

STA

Host

Result

Result

ACK

Figure 35 : Result Transmission with Positive Acknowledgment.

50

ACK

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Host Interface Manual

4.2.3.4. Flow Chart

Result
Transmission

Reset Retry
Counter
No
Cnt > No. of
retries ?

Send Result R

Yes

Error:
Transmission
failed

Start Timer
Increment retry
counter
Poll RS232
No

Yes

Message
received ?

Yes

Message =
[ACK] ?

No

Yes

ACK delay
time over ?

Transmit another
result ?

Yes
Error:
ACK Timeout

No

Message =
[NAK] ?

No

No

Error:
Invalid message

End

Yes
Wait 500 msec

Figure 36 : Flow Chart of Result Transmission (Std-Bi).

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4.2.3.5. Trace Example

a) Results with Error Codes
STA

16:31:50 [STX]R990030000010123 A024567 1030054 1040456 1[33h]

[ETX]
Host 16:31:50 [ACK]

Analyzer sends results with error codes.

STA

16:31:50 [STX]R990030000010123 A024567 1030054 1040456 1[33h]

[ETX]
(the character

represents the character code 7F hex)

[STX]
R
99
003
Results
0000
01
0123
A
02
4567
1
03
0054
1
04
0456
1
End code
[33h]
[ETX]

Start of text (ASCII code 02 hex)

Frame character: Result
Station number : 99
Sample-ID
: 003
4 zeros
Method rank
Result
Error code
Method rank
Result
Error code
Method rank
Result
Error code
Method rank
Result
Error code

:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:

1
123
A ( =
2
4567
1 ( =
3
54
1 ( =
4
456
1 ( =

confirmed)
to be confirmed)
to be confirmed)
to be confirmed)

Code 33 hex represents the checksum character 3

End of text (ASCII code 03 hex)

Trace Example 3 : Result transmission with error codes (Std-Bi)

b) Results without Error Codes - only validated results are transmitted.

STA 16:31:31 [STX]R990030000010123[40h][ETX]
Host 16:31:31 [ACK]

Analyzer sends only validated results.

STA

16:31:31 [STX]R990030000010123[40h][ETX]

[STX]
R
99
003
Results
0000
01
0123
End code
[40h]
[ETX]

Start of text (ASCII code 02 hex)

Frame character: Result
Station number : 99
Sample-ID
: 003
4 zeros
Method rank
Result

: 1
: 123

Code 40 hex represents the checksum character @

End of text (ASCII code 03 hex)

Trace Example 4 : Result transmission without error codes (Std-Bi)

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4.2.4. Line Test

4.2.4.1. Objective
Test the communications link between the STA analyzer and the Host.
This message is always sent by the STA software during Global Verification.
The operator can request a the test from the MAINTENANCE HOST COMPUTER Communication menu.
See 3.1.10. User Maintenance (Std-Bi) on page 25.
The Line Test initiates a message with an incorrect checksum. The Host should then respond with a
[NAK].
Protocol:
The STA Analyzer sends a message with an incorrect checksum and waits for a [NAK] within the predefined delay time. If the Host fails to respond, or is late or incorrect, then the line is considered
disconnected and no transmission is possible.
4.2.4.2. Message Format
Item

Start-of-Text

Frame Type

Checksum

End-of-Text

Length

Trace

[STX]

[46h]

[ETX]

Code

02 hex

45 hex

46 hex

03 hex

Table 13 : Structure of Line Test (Std-Bi).

4.2.4.3. Data Flow

STA

Host

Line Test

NAK

Figure 37 : Line Test with Correct Response.

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4.2.4.4. Flow Chart

Test of Line

Send test string:

[STX]EF[ETX]

Start Timer

Poll RS232

No
Message
received ?

Yes

Message =
[NAK] ?
Yes

No
ACK delay
time over ?

No

Yes
result =
FAILED

Figure 38 : Flow Chart of Line Test (Std-Bi).

4.2.4.5. Trace Example

STA 16:27:12 [STX]E[46h][ETX]
Host 16:27:12 [NAK]
Trace Example 5 : Line Test (Std-Bi).

54

result =
PASSED

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Host Interface Manual

4.2.5. Termination Phase

4.2.5.1. Objective
The STA analyzer sends an E to the Host to terminate communications. No check is made for
acknowledgment from the Host. The Termination Phase is optional. Its use depends upon the Host
computer.
4.2.5.2. Message Format
Item

Start-of-Text

Frame Type

Checksum

End-of-Text

Length

Trace

[STX]

[45h]

[ETX]

Code

02 hex

45 hex

45 hex

03 hex

Table 14 : Structure of Termination Message (Std-Bi).

4.2.5.3. Data Flow

STA

Termination

Host

Figure 39 : Termination Phase Without Response

4.2.5.4. Flow Chart

Termination
Phase

Send test string:

[STX]EE[ETX]

Figure 40 : Flow Chart of Termination Phase

4.2.5.5. Trace Example

STA

16:27:18 [STX]E[45h][ETX]

Trace Example 6 : Termination Phase (Std-Bi).

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5. ASTM Protocol
Details of the ASTM protocol can be found in the following papers:
ASTM E1381-94 Low Level Protocol:
Specification for Low Level Protocol to Transfer Messages Between Clinical Laboratory Instruments
and Computer Systems.
ASTM E1394-91 High Level Protocol:
Standard Specification for Transferring Information Between Clinical Instruments and Computer
Systems.

5.1. Data Transmission Control (ASTM)

The following chapters describe the complete communication between the STA analyzer and the Host
computer.

5.1.1. Common Transmission Procedure

As required by the ASTM Protocol Specification the STA analyzer recognizes three line modes:
Idle:
No communication in progress.
Tx:

Transmission by STA Analyzer

Rx:

Reception by STA Analyzer

The following procedure is used whenever information is sent over the link by either the STA or the
Host. This procedure has three phases:
Establishment Phase
The link is claimed by the sender (STA or Host).
Transfer Phase
Transmission of the different records making up the message.
Termination Phase
The link is released

The three phases are shown below:

Transfer Phase

Establishment
Phase

Sender

Receiver

ENQ

Record 1

ACK

Record n

ACK

Figure 41 : Transmission Control of Information Exchange (ASTM).

56

Termination
Phase

EOT

ACK

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Host Interface Manual

5.1.2. Communication Phases

5.1.2.1. Establishment Phase (STA to Host)
If the STA is in Idle mode it sends an [ENQ]. The possible responses from the Host are:
1. The Host sends an [ACK].
The STA changes to Transmission Mode. If the STA is in normal mode it initiates the Record
Transfer. Alternatively, if the STA is in Test Mode, it initiates the Termination Phase by sending an
[EOT].
2. The Host sends an [ENQ].
The STA waits 5 seconds and then returns another [ENQ]. This cycle is repeated until a [ACK],
[NAK], or any other character is received.
3. The Host sends some other characters.
The STA waits 10 seconds and then returns another [ENQ]. This cycle is repeated until the
Number of On Error Retries is reached. At this point the STA initiates the Termination Phase by
sending an [EOT] and displays an error message.
4. The Host does not respond.
The STA waits 15 seconds, initiates the Termination Phase by sending an [EOT], and displays an
error message.
5.1.2.2. Transfer Phase (STA to Host)
The STA transmits the first record. The possible responses from the Host are:
1. The Host sends a [ACK] or [EOT].
The STA sends the next record.
Caution! The STA regards the [EOT] as an acknowledgment and continues to transmit records.
2. The Host sends some other characters.
The STA waits 10 seconds and then repeats the transmission of the record. This cycle is repeated
until the Number of On Error Retries is reached. At this point the STA initiates the Termination
Phase by sending an [EOT] and displays an error message.
3. The Host does not respond.
The STA waits 15 seconds, initiates the Termination Phase by sending an [EOT] and displays an
error message.
5.1.2.3. Termination Phase (STA to Host)
The STA transmits an [EOT]. It does not wait for a response. The STA changes to Idle Mode.
5.1.2.4. Receiver Reaction (Host to STA)
The possible responses from the STA to a Host message are:
1. The Host sends a [ENQ]
If the STA is in Idle Mode it replies with an [ACK] and changes to Reception Mode.
2. The Host sends a [EOT]
If the STA is in Reception Mode and a Header Record has been received, the STA goes to Idle
Mode and releases the link. The received records are then analyzed by the STA.
If the STA is in Transmission Mode, the STA regards the [EOT] as an acknowledgment and
continues to transmit records.
3. The Host sends some other characters.
The STA receives the characters as part of a record. When a complete record is transmitted the
STA verifies the checksum. If this is satisfactory, the STA returns an [ACK]. If not, a [NAK] is sent.

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5.1.3. Flow Charts

5.1.3.1. Reception/Transmission Sequence

START
A

No

Message to be
transmitted ?

Yes

Building of record
to send

No

Character on
line ?

Yes

Figure 42 : Flow Chart of Reception/Transmission (ASTM).

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5.1.3.2. Reception of a Record

Poll RS232

Send [ACK]
Yes

No

Record received ?

Checksum
ok ?

Yes

Yes

Frame no.
ok ?

No

No

No

[EOT] ?

Error:
Checksum
incorrect

Error:
Frame no.
incorrect

Yes

Dispatch in
database

Send [NAK]

Figure 43 : Flow Chart of Reception of a Record (ASTM)

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5.1.3.3. Establishment Phase

Reset Retry
Counter

Send [ENQ]

Start Timer

Poll RS232

Yes

No
Anything received
?

Yes

[ACK] ?

No

No

Timeout
(10 sec) ?

[ENQ] ?

Yes

Line Test ?

Yes

Wait 10 sec

No
Yes
Wait 10 sec

Error:
No answer from
host

No

Error: Impossible
to get on line

Increment retry
counter

Error:
Answer different
from [ACK]

Figure 44 : Flow Chart of Establishment Phase (ASTM).

60

Yes

Cnt > x ?
(x=1 to 9)

No

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Host Interface Manual

5.1.3.4. Transfer Phase

F
No
Reset Retry
Counter

Send Record

Start Timer
No

Poll RS232

No
Anything received
?

Yes

[ACK] or
[EOT] ?

Yes

Send next record

Last Record ?

No
No
Wait 15 sec
Timeout
(10 sec) ?

Yes

Increment retry
counter

Cnt > x ?
(x=1 to 9)

Yes

Error:
No answer from
host

Error:
Answer different
from [ACK]

Yes

Figure 45 : Flow Chart of Transfer Phase (ASTM).

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Host Interface Manual

5.1.3.5. Termination Phase

Send [EOT]

Figure 46 : Flow Chart of Termination Phase (ASTM).

62

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5.1.4. Message Structure

There are three different messages sent between the STA and the Host. Each of these contains a
different record structure:
(Refer to ASTM-1394-91 specifications):

Request for Worklist Message:

Record ID
H
Q
L

(STA to Host)

Record name
Message Header Record
Request Info. Record
Message Terminator Record

Worklist Message:

(Host to STA)

Record ID
H
P

Record name
Message Header Record
Patient Record 1
Test Order Record 1

O
...

Patient Record n (optionally)

Test Order Record n (optionally)

Message Terminator Record

O
L

Result Message:

(STA to Host)

Record ID
H
P
O
R
M
...
R
M
L

Record name
Message Header Record
Patient Record
Test Order Record
Result Record 1
Manufacturer Information Record 1
...
Result Record n
Manufacturer Information Record n
Message Terminator Record

A worklist is normally sent in response to a worklist request, although, the ASTM protocol also allows
the sending of a modified worklist for an already existing sample entry at the STA without first sending
a request.
for STA and STA-C:
If the operator identifies and positions the samples in routine so fast that the worklist request for the
next sample is earlier than the worklist from the host for the previous sample the request from the STA
has higher priority and the host must buffer the request until he gets the line for sending the worklist.
Depending on the speed of the operator it could happen that the host must buffer all requests of one
drawer.
When the host gets the line for worklist transmission the host can send the methods for all buffered
samples within one worklist transmission by repetition of the Patient and Test Order records (see
Worklist above)

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5.2. Record Structure

5.2.1. Record Types
Table 15 lists the different record types with their identification characters and the included information.
No

Name

Rec ID Sender

Contents (STA specific)

ASTM
Spec

Message Header

STA/Host

Delimiters, Station no., Version no.,

Date, Time

7.1.

Patient Information

STA/Host

four Info fields

8.1.

Request Information

STA

Sample ID

Test Order 1

Host

Sample ID, selected Methods

9.4.

Test Order 2

STA

Sample ID

9.4.

Result

STA

Method no, Result, Unit,Date and

Time (if control result)

10.1.

Manufacturer
Information

STA

Error and Alarm code

15.1.

Message Terminator

STA/Host

12.1.

13.1.

Table 15 : Record Types (ASTM)

5.2.2. General Record Format

All the above listed records have the same record format. This is shown below in Table 16. The data
section consists of several data fields containing the information. The format of these data fields is
defined in the ASTM specification.
Item
Length

Start-of-text
[STX]

Frame Number

Record Type

Data
Section

End Code
[ETX] CH CL [CR][LF]

variable

Table 16 : General Record Format (ASTM)

If the record length (Record Type + Data Section) exceeds 240 characters the record is divided into
several parts. Each part, except the last, replaces the [ETX] character with [ETB].

5.2.3. Checksum Calculation (ASTM)

The checksum is the sum of all the character codes starting with the frame number ending with [ETX]
or [ETB]. The checksum is the least significant 8-bits of the result, in hexadecimal format.
Example:
Sum of all character codes:
Hexadecimal Format:

122
7A

(decimal)
(hexadecimal)

The two characters 7 and A are transferred as the checksum characters CH and CL
respectively.

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Host Interface Manual

5.2.4. Record Details

5.2.4.1. Header Record
In the following tables only the marked data fields are used.
Upload Example:
[STX]1H|\^&|||99^2.00|||||||P|1.00|19950112104500[CR][End-code]

Download Example:
[STX]1H|\^&|||99^2.00[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Workl. Request
/ Result

Worklist

STA > Host

Host > STA

max.
Length

ASTM
Spec.

[STX]

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID

7.1.1

7.1.2

H = Header record
|\^&

Delimiter definition
| = field delimiter
\ = repeat delimiter
^ = component delimiter
& = escape delimiter
Field 3 and 4 not used

7.1.5

Sender Name or ID
99
^
2.00

Station number (1 to 99)

Defined in GLOBAL OPTIONS
^
Version of STA implementation

Fields 6 to 11 not used

P

Processing ID

7.1.12

7.1.13

14

7.1.14

P = Production
Q = Quality Control
1.00

Version No
ASTM protocol version, currently
1.00

19950112
104500

Date and time of message

[CR]

Carriage return

1394

[End-code]

End-of-text, Checksum,
Carriage return,
Line feed

1381

Format: YYYYMMDDHHMMSS

Table 17 : Record Header Structure (ASTM)

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5.2.4.2. Patient Record

Upload / Download Example
STA, STA-C
[STX]1P|1|||Info 1^Info 2^Info 3^Inf4[CR][End-code]

STA-R
[STX]1P|1|||Info 1^Info 2^Info 3^Inf4||19941213[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Result

Worklist

STA > Host

Host > STA

max.
Length

ASTM
Spec.

[STX]

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID

8.1.1

8.1.2

P = Patient record
1

Sequence Number
Field 3 and 4 not used

8.1.5

Patient ID No.3
Info 1
^Info 2
^Info 3
^Inf4

16
12
6
4

Information no. 1 (e.g. name)

^Information no. 2 (e.g. forename)
^Information no. 3 (e.g. bed no)
^Information no. 4 (e.g.
department)
Field 6 and 7 not used

19941213

BirthDate
Format: YYYYMMDD

only
STA-R
Extended

only
STA-R
Extended

8.1.8

[CR]

Carriage return

1394

[End-code]

End-of-text, Checksum, Carriage

return,
Line feed

1381

Table 18 : Patient Record Structure (ASTM)

Notes:
Field 5: Empty information fields do not overwrite existing information fields at the instrument.

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5.2.4.3. Request Record

[STX]1Q|1|^100001[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Wl Request
STA > Host

[STX]

max.
Length

ASTM
Spec.

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID

12.1.1

12.1.2

Q = Request record
1

Sequence Number

12.1.3

Starting range ID number

^100001
[CR]

Computer System Patient ID

^Specimen ID

16

Carriage return

1394

1381

[End-code] End-of-text, Checksum,

Carriage return,
Line feed
Table 19 : Request Record Structure (ASTM)

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5.2.4.4. Test Order Record

Upload Example
[STX]1O|1|100001|||R[CR][End-code]

Download Example
[STX]1O|1|100001||^^^10\^^^11\^^^12|R[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Result

Worklist

STA > Host

Host > STA

max. ASTM
Length Spec.

[STX]

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID

9.4.1

Sequence Number

9.4.2

Specimen ID

16

9.4.3

3 per
rank

9.4.5

9.4.6

O = Order record
1
100001

sample barcode
^Rack ID (only patient result)
^Rack Position (only pat. Res)
^Lot Number (only QC result)

only STA-R Ext

only STA-R Ext
only STA-R Ext

Field 4 not used

Universal Test ID
^
^
^10

Universal Test ID Part 1

^Universal Test ID Name
^Universal Test ID Type
^Manufacturers or Local Code
(= Transmission rank of the
main unit of the test to be
performed.)

\^^^11
\^^^12

If there is more than one test,

the following tests will be
separated by the repeat
delimiter
Priority

R = Routine
S = STAT

[CR]

Carriage return

1394

[End-code]

End-of-text, Checksum,
Carriage return,
Line feed

1381

Table 20 : Test Order Record Structure (ASTM)

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5.2.4.5. Result Record

[STX]1R|1|^^^10|100|%||||F||||19950112134500[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Result
STA > Host

[STX]

max.
Length

ASTM
Spec.

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID

10.1.1

10.1.2

R = Result record
1

Sequence Number

3 per
rank

Universal Test ID
^
^
^10

Universal Test ID Part 1

^Universal Test ID Name
^Universal Test ID Type
^Manufacturers or Local Code
(= Transmission rank of the
measured data)

100
%

Data Measurement or Value

10.1.4
10.1.5

Units
Fields 6 to 8 are not used

10.1.9

14

10.1.13

Carriage return

1394

End-of-text, Checksum,
Carriage return,
Line feed

1381

Result Status
F = Final results
Fields 10 to 12 are not used

19950112
134500
[CR]
[End-code]

Date / Time Test completed

Format:
YYYYMMDDHHMMSS

If STA,
only for control
results

Table 21 : Result Record Structure(ASTM)

Field 5: Units
Units

Result Format

sec

xxx.x

%, mg/dl

xxxxx

OD, OD/min

x.xxx

Ratio, g/l, ng/ml, U/ml, IU/ml

xx.xx

UA1, UA2, UA3

0 to 3 decimals

Table 22 : List of Units

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5.2.4.6. Manufacturer Information Record for Error / Alarm Codes

A Manufacturer Information record always follows a result record to indicate the error and alarm codes
of the result.
[STX]1M|1|A|@[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Result
STA > Host

[STX]

max.
Length

ASTM
Spec.

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID

15.1.1

M = Manufacturer Information
record
1

Sequence Number

15.1.2

Error Code

15.1.3

15.1.4

1394

1381

A = validated (see tables below)

@

Alarm Code
@ = no alarm (see tables below)

[CR]

Carriage return

[End-code] End-of-text, Checksum,

Carriage return, Line feed

Table 23 : Structure of Manufacturer Information Record for Error/Alarm codes (ASTM)

5.2.4.6.1. Definition of Error Codes

Character
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
A

ASCII Code Error Code Definition

31 hex
32 hex
33 hex
34 hex
35 hex
36 hex
38 hex
41 hex

to be confirmed
technical error
> Tmax
< Tmin
margin > tolerance
QNS
R < R min. /colorimetry
confirmed

Result from STA

Result value
no result (0.0)
no result (0.0)
no result (0.0)
no result (0.0)
no result (0.0)
no result (0.0)
Result value

Table 24 : Definition of Error Codes (ASTM)

Notes:
In error case of 'Quantity not sufficient' the STA sends an error code 2.

70

Remark

only STA-C and STA-R

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5.2.4.6.2. Definition of Alarm Codes

Character

ASCII Code Alarm Description

@
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H

40 hex
41 hex
42 hex
43 hex
44 hex
45 hex
46 hex
47 hex
48 hex

No alarm:
Result:
Calibration Control:
Quality Control:
Quality Control:
Arm #3:
Arm #2:
Arm #1:
Result:

I
J
K
L
M
N
O

49 hex
4A hex
4B hex
4C hex
4D hex
4E hex
4F hex

Result:
Result:
Reagent drawer:
Syringe Arm #3:
Syringe Arm #2:
Syringe Arm #1:
Tolerance

Remark
Confirmed with T>max.
Overridden
Out of range or not done
Overridden
No level detection
No level detection
No level detection
Value in primary units skewed
(results cut to limit value)
Dilution change (in rerun)
Rerun test
Temperature out of limit
Maintenance date overdue
Maintenance date overdue
Maintenance date overdue
Duplicate measure
Only STA-R Ext.

Table 25 : Definition of Alarm Codes (ASTM)

Notes:
If there are multiple alarms for a result, the highest priority code is transmitted. Alarm codes are
classified from @ to N/O. The highest priority is code @.

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5.2.4.7. Termination Record

Upload / Download Example
[STX]1L|1|N[CR][End-code]

Example

Content

Wl. Request /
Result
STA>Host

[STX]

Start-of-text

1381

Frame number from 0 to 7

1381

Record Type ID
L = Terminator record

13.1.1

Sequence Number

13.1.2

Terminator Code
N = Normal end of
message

13.1.3

[CR]

Carriage return

1394

[End-code]

End-of-text, Checksum,
Carriage return, Line feed

1381

Table 26 : Structure of Termination Record (ASTM)

5.3. Trace Examples (ASTM)

The following definitions are used to aid readability:
Code

Meaning

02 hex

Start of Text

[STX]

03 hex

End of Text

[ETX]

04 hex

End of Transmission

[EOT]

05 hex

Enquiry

[ENQ]

06 hex

Acknowledge

[ACK]

0A hex

Line Feed

0D hex Carriage Return

Mnemonic

[LF]
[CR]

15 hex

Not Acknowledged

[NAK]

17 hex

End of Transmission Block

[ETB]

Table 27 : Replaced Control Characters in Example Traces (ASTM)

72

Worklist

max. ASTM
Length Spec.

Host>STA

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Host Interface Manual

5.3.1. Worklist Request from STA to Host

STA 12:38:42 [ENQ]
Host 12:38:42 [ACK]
STA 12:38:42 [STX]1H|\^&|||99^2.00|||||||P|1.00|19950307123642[CR][ET
X]28[CR][LF]
Host 12:38:42 [ACK]
STA 12:38:42 [STX]2Q|1|^001[CR][ETX]AB[CR][LF]
Host 12:38:42 [ACK]
STA 12:38:43 [STX]3L|1|N[CR][ETX]06[CR][LF]
Host 12:38:43 [ACK]
STA 12:38:43 [EOT]

Analyzer initiates Worklist request transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
99
2.00
P
1.00
19950307
123642
Request Record
Q
1
001
Termination Record
L
1
N

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Production
Version level of ASTM specs. (E1394-91)
Date (Format: YYYYMMDD)
Time (Format: HHMMSS)
Request record
Request number
Sample Identification
Termination record
Sequence no.
Normal end

Trace Example 7 : Worklist Request (ASTM)

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5.3.2. Worklist from Host to STA (STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host

12:38:43
12:38:43
12:38:43
12:38:44
12:38:44
12:38:44
12:38:45
12:38:45
12:38:45
12:38:45
12:38:45

[ENQ]
[ACK]
[STX]1H|\^&|||99^2.00[CR][ETX]E9[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]2P|1|||Info 1^Info 2^Info 3^Inf4[CR][ETX]B8[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]3O|1|001||^^^6\^^^9|R[CR][ETX]11[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]4L|1|N[CR][ETX]07[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[EOT]

Host initiates Worklist transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
99
2.00
Patient Record
P
1
Info 1
Info 2
Info 3
Inf4
Test Order Record 1
O
1
001
6\9
R
Termination Record
L
1
N

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Patient record
Patient number
Info field 1
Info field 2
Info field 3
Info field 4
Test order record
Test order record number
Sample Identification
Selected methods : 6, 9
Routine sample
Termination record
Sequence no.
Normal end

Trace Example 8 : Worklist (ASTM/STA,STA-C, STA-R Strict)

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5.3.3. Worklist from Host to STA (STA-R Extended)

Host
STA-R
Host
STA-R
Host

14:21:28,35
14:21:28,37
14:21:28,41
14:21:28,42
14:21:28,48

STA-R
Host
STA-R
Host
STA-R
Host

14:21:28,49
14:21:28,53
14:21:28,54
14:21:28,57
14:21:28,58
14:21:28,59

[ENQ]
[ACK]
[STX]1H|\^&|||99^2.00[CR][ETX]E9[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]2P|1|||Inf1^Inf2^Inf3^Inf4|||19941213[CR][
ETX]1D[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]3O|1|0009||^^^2\|S[CR][ETX]F3[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]4L|1|N[CR][ETX]07[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[EOT]

Host initiates Worklist transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
99
2.00
Patient Record
P
1
Inf1
Inf2
Inf3
Inf4
19941213
Test Order Record 1
O
1
0009
2
S
Termination Record
L
1
N

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Patient record
Patient number
Info field 1
Info field 2
Info field 3
Info field 4
Birthdate 13th of December 1994
Test order record
Test order record number
Sample Identification
Selected method : 2
STAT sample
Termination record
Sequence no.
Normal end

Trace Example 9 : Worklist (ASTM/STA-R Extended)

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5.3.4. Routine Result Transmission (STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

STA 11:16:09 [ENQ]
Host 11:16:09 [ACK]
STA 11:16:09 [STX]1H|\^&|||72^2.00|||||||P|1.00|19950614111501[CR][ET
X]17[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:09 [ACK]
STA 11:16:09 [STX]2P|1|||STAT^^^[CR][ETX]09[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:09 [ACK]
STA 11:16:10 [STX]3O|1|000012|||R[CR][ETX]A4[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:10 [ACK]
STA 11:16:10 [STX]4R|1|^^^17|14.7|Sek||||F||||[CR][ETX]4C[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:10 [ACK]
STA 11:16:10 [STX]5M|1|A|@[CR][ETX]B8[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:10 [ACK]
STA 11:16:11 [STX]6R|2|^^^18|0.84|Ratio||||F||||[CR][ETX]2C[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:11 [ACK]
STA 11:16:11 [STX]7M|2|A|@[CR][ETX]BB[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:11 [ACK]
STA 11:16:11 [STX]0L|1|N[CR][ETX]03[CR][LF]
Host 11:16:11 [ACK]
STA 11:16:12 [EOT]

Analyzer initiates result transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
72
2.00
P
1.00
19950614
111501
Patient Record
P
1
STAT
Test Order Record 2
O
1
000012
R
Result Record 1
R
1
17
14.7
Sek
F
Manufacturer Info Record 1
M
1
A
@
Result Record 2
R
2
18
0.84
Ratio
F
Manufacturer Info Record 2
M
2
A
@
Termination Record
L
1
N

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Production
Version level of ASTM specs. (E1394-91)
Date (Format: YYYYMMDD)
Time (Format: HHMMSS)
Patient record
Patient number
Info field 1 (Info fields 2 to 4 are empty)
Test order record
Record number
Sample Identification
Routine
Result record
Result number
Main unit rank
Result for main unit
Unit
Final result
Manufacturer information record
Sequence number
Error code
Alarm code
Result record
Result number
Secondary unit rank
Result for secondary unit
Unit
Final result
Manufacturer information record
Sequence number
Error code
Alarm code
Termination record
Sequence no.
Normal end

Trace Example 10: Result Transmission (ASTM/STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

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5.3.5. Routine Result Transmission (STA-R Extended)

STA-R 14:27:01,98 [ENQ]
Host 14:27:01,99 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,05 [STX]1H|\^&|||88^2.00|||||||P|1.00|199902101431
25[CR][ETX]21[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,06 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,12 [STX]2P|1|||Inf1^Inf2^Inf3^Inf4|||19941213[CR][
ETX]1D[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,12 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,17 [STX]3O|1|0009^501057^2|||S[CR][ETX]6B[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,17 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,23 [STX]4R|1|^^^2|75|%||||F||||19990210143124[CR][
ETX]88[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,24 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,27 [STX]5M|1|A|@[CR][ETX]B8[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,27 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,33 [STX]6R|2|^^^3|1.25|INR||||F||||19990210143124[
CR][ETX]AA[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,34 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,37 [STX]7M|2|A|@[CR][ETX]BB[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,38 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,44 [STX]0R|3|^^^1|14.9|Sec.||||F||||19990210143124
[CR][ETX]09[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,44 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,47 [STX]1M|3|A|@[CR][ETX]B6[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,48 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,50 [STX]2L|1|N[CR][ETX]05[CR][LF]
Host 14:27:02,51 [ACK]
STA-R 14:27:02,54 [EOT]

Analyzer initiates result transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
72
2.00
P
1.00
19990210
143125
Patient Record
P
1
Inf1
Inf2
Inf3
Inf4
19941213
Test Order Record 2
O
1
0009
501057
2
S
Result Record 1
R
1
2
75
%
F
19990210143124
Manufacturer Info Record 1
M
1
A
@

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Production
Version level of ASTM specs. (E1394-91)
Date (Format: YYYYMMDD)
Time (Format: HHMMSS)
Patient record
Patient number
Info field 1
Info field 2
Info field 3
Info field 4
Birthdate
Test order record
Record number
Sample Identification
Rack no.
Position no.
STAT
Result record
Result number
Main unit rank
Result for main unit
Unit
Final result
Test completed 10th of February 1999, 14:31:24
Manufacturer information record
Sequence numberError code
Alarm code

Same for the other result records

Trace Example 11: Result Transmission (ASTM/STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

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5.3.6. Quality Control Result Transmission (STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA
Host
STA

13:37:59
13:37:59
13:37:59
13:38:00
13:38:00
13:38:00
13:38:00
13:38:01
13:38:01
13:38:01
13:38:02
13:38:02
13:38:02
13:38:02
13:38:03

[ENQ]
[ACK]
[STX]1H|\^&|||99^2.00|||||||Q|1.00|19950307133600[CR][ETX]24[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]2P|1|||[CR][ETX]B3[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]3O|1|11073|||R[CR][ETX]7D[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]4R|1|^^^6|50|%||||F||||19950307104300[CR][ETX]81[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]5M|1|A|@[CR][ETX]B8[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[STX]6L|1|N[CR][ETX]09[CR][LF]
[ACK]
[EOT]

Analyzer initiates result transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
99
2.00
Q
1.00
19950307
133600
Patient Record
P
1
Test Order Record 2
O
1
11073
R
Result Record
R
1
6
50
%
F
19950307
104300
Manufacturer Info Record
M
1
A
@
Termination Record
L
1
N

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Quality Control
Version level of ASTM specs. (E1394-91)
Date (Format: YYYYMMDD)
Time (Format: HHMMSS)
Patient record
Patient number
Test order record
Record number
Control Identification
Routine
Result record
Result number
Main unit rank : 1
Result for main unit : 50
Unit
Final result
Date
Time
Manufacturer information record
Sequence number
Error code
Alarm code
Termination record
Sequence no.
Normal end

Trace Example 12 : Quality Control Result Transmission (ASTM/STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)

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5.3.7. Quality Control Result Transmission (STA-R Extented)

STA-R 14:18:57,94 [ENQ]
Host 14:18:57,95 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,01 [STX]1H|\^&|||88^2.00|||||||Q|1.00|199902101423
20[CR][ETX]1E[CR][LF]
Host 14:18:58,02 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,05 [STX]2P|1|||^^^|||[CR][ETX]41[CR][LF]
Host 14:18:58,06 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,10 [STX]3O|1|11380^^^681068|||R[CR][ETX]D5[CR][LF]
Host 14:18:58,11 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,17 [STX]4R|1|^^^11|115|mg/dl||||F||||1999021010234
2[CR][ETX]8E[CR][LF]
Host 14:18:58,18 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,21 [STX]5M|1|A|@[CR][ETX]B8[CR][LF]
Host 14:18:58,21 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,24 [STX]6L|1|N[CR][ETX]09[CR][LF]
Host 14:18:58,24 [ACK]
STA-R 14:18:58,26 [EOT]

Analyzer initiates result transmission.

Header Record
H
|\^&
88
2.00
Q
1.00
19990210
142320
Patient Record
P
1
Test Order Record 2
O
1
11380
681068
R
Result Record
R
1
11
115
mg/dl
F
19990210
102342
Manufacturer Info Record
M
1
A
@
Termination Record
L
1
N

Header record
Delimiter Definition
Station number
Version level of Stage instrument implementation
Quality Control
Version level of ASTM specs. (E1394-91)
Date (Format: YYYYMMDD)
Time (Format: HHMMSS)
Patient record
Patient number
Test order record
Record number
Control Identification
Control Lot Number
Routine
Result record
Result number
Main unit rank : 1
Result for main unit : 50
Unit
Final result
Date
Time
Manufacturer information record
Sequence number
Error code
Alarm code
Termination record
Sequence no.
Normal end

Trace Example 13 : Quality Control Result Transmission (ASTM/ STA-R Extended)

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6. Figures and Tables

6.1. List of Figures
Figure 1 : Data Cable Wiring Diagram
Figure 2 : STA Global Options Screen (Std-Bi)
Figure 3 : STA Global Options Screen (ASTM)
Figure 4 : Setup-Tests, Test List
Figure 5 : Test Setup Screen
Figure 6 : Transmission Numbers List
Figure 7 : Sample Loading Screen in MANUAL MODE
Figure 8 : Sample Loading Screen in AUTO MODE
Figure 9 : Profile Modification Screen
Figure 10 : Info Field Window on Reception of Worklist
Figure 11 : The Status Menu
Figure 12 : Sample List Screen
Figure 13 : Results Screen
Figure 14 : Entering the Access Code
Figure 15 : Main Menu of User Maintenance.
Figure 16 : User Maintenance Parameters and Test Functions (Std-Bi).
Figure 17 : Main Menu of User Maintenance.
Figure 18 : User Maintenance Parameters and Test Functions (ASTM).
Figure 19 : Main menu of Service Maintenance
Figure 20 : External Line Test function within Service Maintenance
Figure 21 : STA-R - Setup/Communications screen
Figure 22 : STA-R - Setup/Printout/Trans. screen
Figure 23 : STA-R - List of Transmission Ranks
Figure 23 : STA-R - Patients/Unloading screen
Figure 24 : STA-R - Patients/Test Panel screen
Figure 25 : STA-R - Setup/Global Options screen
Figure 26 : STA-R - Patients/Test Panel screen
Figure 27 : STA-R - Buffer File screen
Figure 27 : STA-R - Quality Control screen
Figure 27 : STA-R - Screen with Host alarm window
Figure 28 : Establishment Phase with Successful Response.
Figure 29 : Flow Chart of Establishment Phase (Std-Bi).
Figure 30 : Worklist Request and Worklist Response
Figure 31 : Flow Chart of Worklist Request (Std-Bi)
Figure 32 : Result Transmission with Positive Acknowledgment.
Figure 33 : Flow Chart of Result Transmission (Std-Bi).
Figure 34 : Line Test with Correct Response.
Figure 35 : Flow Chart of Line Test (Std-Bi).
Figure 36 : Termination Phase Without Response
Figure 37 : Flow Chart of Termination Phase
Figure 38 : Transmission Control of Information Exchange (ASTM).
Figure 39 : Flow Chart of Reception/Transmission (ASTM).
Figure 40 : Flow Chart of Reception of a Record (ASTM)
Figure 41 : Flow Chart of Establishment Phase (ASTM).
Figure 42 : Flow Chart of Transfer Phase (ASTM).
Figure 43 : Flow Chart of Termination Phase (ASTM).

80

8
10
12
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
41
42
44
45
50
51
53
54
55
55
56
58
59
60
61
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6.2. List of Tables

Table 1 : Pin-Out Descriptions
Table 2 : Transmission Specification
Table 3 : Control Character Definitions used in Std-Bi Example Traces
Table 4 : Typical Text Format for the Std-Bi Protocol.
Table 5 : Structure of Worklist Request Message (Std-Bi).
Table 6 : Structure of Worklist Message Without Info. (Std-Bi).
Table 7 : Structure of Worklist Message With Info. (Std-Bi).
Table 8 : Structure of Result Message (Std-Bi).
Table 9 : Units and Division Factors
Table 10 : Error Codes (Std-Bi).
Table 11 : Error and Alarm Codes (Std-Bi).
Table 12 : Alarm Code Descriptions (Std-Bi).
Table 13 : Structure of Line Test (Std-Bi).
Table 14 : Structure of Termination Message (Std-Bi).
Table 15 : Record Types (ASTM)
Table 16 : General Record Format (ASTM)
Table 17 : Record Header Structure (ASTM)
Table 18 : Patient Record Structure (ASTM)
Table 19 : Request Record Structure (ASTM)
Table 20 : Test Order Record Structure (ASTM)
Table 21 : Result Record Structure(ASTM)
Table 22 : List of Units
Table 23 : Structure of Manufacturer Information Record for Error/Alarm codes (ASTM)
Table 24 : Definition of Error Codes (ASTM)
Table 25 : Definition of Alarm Codes (ASTM)
Table 26 : Structure of Termination Record (ASTM)
Table 27 : Replaced Control Characters in Example Traces (ASTM)

8
9
40
40
43
43
43
47
48
49
49
50
53
55
64
64
65
66
67
68
69
69
70
70
71
72
72

6.3. List of Trace Examples

Trace Example 1 : Establishment Phase
Trace Example 2 : Worklist Request and Worklist with Info Fields (Std-Bi).
Trace Example 3 : Result transmission with error codes (Std-Bi)
Trace Example 4 : Result transmission without error codes (Std-Bi)
Trace Example 5 : Line Test (Std-Bi).
Trace Example 6 : Termination Phase (Std-Bi).
Trace Example 7 : Worklist Request (ASTM)
Trace Example 8 : Worklist (ASTM/STA,STA-C, STA-R Strict)
Trace Example 9 : Worklist (ASTM/STA-R Extended)
Trace Example 10: Result Transmission (ASTM/STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)
Trace Example 11: Result Transmission (ASTM/STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)
Trace Example 12 : Quality Control Result Transmission (ASTM/STA, STA-C, STA-R Strict)
Trace Example 13 : Quality Control Result Transmission (ASTM/ STA-R Extended)

42
46
52
52
54
55
73
74
75
76
77
78
79

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Appendix A - Alarm Messages (STA, STA-C)

No

Title

Text

12.01.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Incorrect station number

Message not taken into account

12.02.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Identity not found in database

Message not taken into account

12.03.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

All transmitted ranks unknown

Message not taken into account

12.03.01

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Duplicated rank transmitted

Message not taken into account

12.04.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Buffer tempo writing impossible

12.05.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Buffer tempo reading impossible

12.06.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

NACK transmission impossible

12.07.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Incorrect checksum

12.08.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

ACK transmission impossible

12.09.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

No response

12.09.01

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Defective transmission
(NACK response)

12.09.02

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Work list not returned

12.10.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

File transmission impossible

12.11.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

No result for this identification

12.12.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

STA not connected

Please connect

12.13.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

Identity not found in database

12.14.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

Invalid identity
> 8 characters

12.15.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

Invalid Result format

12.20.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

Impossible to open line

12.21.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

Response different of ACK

12.22.00

SYSTEM HOST TRANSMISSION

No response

12.23.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Incorrect sequence number

12.24.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Incorrect sequence checksum

12.25.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Incorrect instrument number

12.26.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Incorrect version number

12.27.00

SYSTEM HOST RECEPTION

Returned identity unknown

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Appendix B - Alarm Messages (STA-R)

Category

Sub-Category

Message

5120

STA-R => HOST

Unknown Message

5120

HOST => STA-R

Incorrect Checksum

5120

HOST => STA-R

Incorrect Frame Number

5120

HOST => STA-R

Line Feed received without Message

5120

STA-R => HOST

Not an Acknowledge received (Establishment phase)

5120

STA-R => HOST

No answer from Host (Establishment phase)

5120

STA-R => HOST

Impossible to open line

5120

STA-R => HOST

Not an Acknowledge received (Transfer phase)

5120

STA-R => HOST

No answer from Host (Transfer phase)

5120

HOST => STA-R

P record not found

5120

10

HOST => STA-R

H record not found

5120

11

HOST => STA-R

O record not found

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Appendix C - ASCII Chart

Char

Char

Char

Char

Char

Char

Char

Char

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

Hex Dec

NUL
00

DLE
0

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

10

1A

11

1B

12

1C

13

1D

14

1E

15

1F

SOH
01

84

36

34

37

35

38

36

39

37

40

38

41

39

26

42

3A

2B

43

3B

28

2C

44

3C

29

2D

45

3D

30

2E

46

3E

31

2F

47

3F

42

51

43

52

44

53

45

54

46

55

47

56

48

57

49

58

4A

59

4B

60

4C

61

4D

62

4E

63

4F

66

52

67

53

68

54

69

55

70

56

71

57

72

58

73

59

74

5A

75

5B

76

5C

77

5D

78

5E

79

5F

83

63

84

64

85

65

86

66

87

67

88

68

89

69

90

6A

91

6B

92

6C

93

6D

94

6E

95

6F

72

99

73

100

74

101

102

103

104

^
_

o
111

121

z
7A

122

{
7B

123

|
7C

124

}
7D

n
110

120

y
79

m
109

119

x
78

l
108

118

w
77

k
107

117

v
76

j
106

116

u
75

i
105

115

114

113

98

112

71

97

70

62

>

82

p
96

61

<

81

60

80

51

65

50

US

50

P
64

27

41

*
2A

49

RS

SI
0F

29

GS

SO
0E

25

FS

CR
0D

28

ESC

FF
0C

33

24

SUB

VT
0B

35

40

27

EM

LF
0A

23

32

&
26

CAN

HT
09

22

34

@
48

%
25

ETB

BS
08

21

31

$
24

SYN

BEL
07

20

33

#
23

NAK

ACK
06

19

30

"
22

DC4

ENQ
05

18

32

!
21

DC3

EOT
04

17

DC2

ETX
03

Space
20

DC1

STX
02

16

125

~
7E

126

DEL
7F

127