Thermo Scientific

Excelsior AS
Operator Guide
A82310100 Issue 5
Company Information
© Copyright 2013. Thermo Fisher Scientific. All rights reserved.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (Thermo Fisher Scientific) is the world leader in serving science, offering a unique
combination of innovative technologies. Thermo Scientific is a brand name of Thermo Fisher Scientific.
All other trademarks are the property of Thermo Fisher Scientific and its subsidiaries.
Thermo Fisher Scientific makes every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this supporting
document is correct and clearly stated, but does not accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. The
development of Thermo Scientific products and services is an ongoing process. Please ensure that any published
information you use as a reference is up to date and relates to the condition of the product. If necessary, check
with your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.
This document may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated, or converted to any
electronic or other form without prior written consent of Thermo Fisher Scientific. All information contained in
this manual is proprietary and confidential, and the exclusive property of Thermo Fisher Scientific and is
protected by copyright.

Contact Addresses
Thermo Shandon Limited (Trading as Themo Fisher Scientific), Tudor Road, Manor Park,
Runcorn, WA7 1TA, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1928 534 000; Fax: +44 (0) 1928 534 001
Web: www.thermoscientific.com/pathology

USA Distributor: Anatomical Pathology USA, 4481 Campus Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
Tel: 1-800-522-7270; Fax: +1 269-372-2674
Web: www.thermoscientific.com/pathology

This instrument conforms to the essential requirements of:

In Vitro Diagnostic Directive 98/79/EC
Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC

EMC Statement
This IVD equipment complies with the emissions and immunity requirements of IEC 61326-2-6:2006.
This equipment has been designed and tested to CISPR 11 Class A.
It is intended for use in a laboratory environment by a trained and qualified professional. In a domestic
environment it may cause radio interference, in which case it may be necessary to take measures to mitigate the
interference.
Safety Information
Thermo Fisher Scientific instruments are designed for convenient and reliable service; however, improper use or
handling by a user may damage the instrument, or cause a hazard to health. The instrument must not be used in a
manner not specified by Thermo Fisher Scientific. Correct maintenance procedures are essential for consistent
performance. It is recommended that users secure a maintenance contract with our service department.
Any problems and queries should be referred to your Thermo Fisher Scientific service department.

The following sections contain important information for the safe setup and use of the
instrument, and should be read and understood by the user before using the instrument.

General Safety
This instrument, as supplied, conforms to IEC61010-1 and IEC61010-2-101; however, the
addition of chemicals introduces potential hazards. Good Laboratory Practice must be employed and
consideration must be given to the potential for hazard when dealing with these chemicals.
Do not use the instrument in close proximity to strong electromagnetic radiation, as these may
interfere with the proper operation. The electromagnetic environment should be evaluated prior to
operation of the device.
Good Laboratory Practice must be used when handling tissue samples to prevent cross
contamination and infection. The user should complete a risk assessment to determine any potential
hazards related to tissue handling.

• Do not introduce any source of ignition into, or near, the instrument once it has been loaded
with reagents.

• Do not remove any panels or access covers, unless specifically instructed to do so. The
instrument does not have any user serviceable parts. Potentially lethal voltages are present
inside the instrument.
• The instrument must be properly connected to a good earth (ground) via the Mains input
supply and positioned such that it is possible to interrupt the Mains supply at the source by
removing the plug from the socket.
• Use only factory approved accessories or replacement parts within the instrument.
• Only use reagents recommended in the operator guide.
• If the Excelsior AS is used in a manner not specified by Thermo Fisher Scientific, the
protection provided by the instrument may be impaired.
Disposal of Sealed Lead Acid Batteries
The sealed lead acid batteries within this instrument need to be replaced every three years.
If the instrument has mainly been operated in very low temperatures, or has been exposed to frequent Mains
failures, the batteries should be replaced every year.
The battery manufacturers advise their customers to comply with the relevant regulations within their particular
country regarding disposal of this type of battery.
The battery used within this instrument is:
• 12 V 12Ah, valve regulated, sealed, lead acid type, rechargeable battery.
This battery is classified as "Class 8 & Group III UN No 2800 Batteries, wet, non-spillable, electric
storage, special provision A67", and meets all requirements of the International Air Transport Association
(I.A.T.A) Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Batteries cannot be accessed by the customer and must only replaced by trained service
personnel.

Chemical Safety
The introduction of chemicals creates potential hazards. Thermo Fisher Scientific has adopted the following
position with regard to the subject of volatile chemicals used in laboratories:

• Customers using non-specified chemicals in the instrument, do so at their own risk.

• All chemicals recommended by Thermo Fisher Scientific have auto-ignition temperatures

considerably above any surface temperatures that can be reached during a single fault failure
on the instrument.
• The instrument contains no source of ignition in any areas of the instrument where chemicals
are stored, or likely to leak into, in a single fault condition.
• The operator is fully aware of the contents of the specification documents detailing the
properties of the chemicals they are using.
• The operator has carried out any legally required assessment of chemicals used and is using
Good Laboratory Practice.
• Some chemicals which may be used during operation are flammable - do not use sources of
ignition in the vicinity of the instrument when it is loaded with reagents.
• Harmful chemical vapours such as Xylene or Toluene may be emitted during the normal
operation of some instruments and the operator should be aware of suitable precautions and
safety measures.
Environment
This instrument is required to comply with the European Union's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC. It is marked with the following symbol:

Thermo Fisher Scientific has contracts with one or more recycling / disposal companies in each EU Member
State, and this product and packaging should be disposed of or recycled through them. For further information
contact your Thermo Fisher Scientific service representative.

Warranty Statement
Thermo Fisher Scientific is proud of their quality, reliability and of our after-sales service. We continuously strive
to improve our service to our customers.
Please ask your distributor or Thermo Fisher Scientific representative about service contracts which can help
maintain your instrument in an optimal operating condition.
Warranty provisions necessarily vary to comply with differences in national and regional legislation. Specific
details can be found in the delivery documentation or from your dealer or representative.
Please note that your warranty may be invalidated if:
• This instrument is modified in any way, or not used as intended by Thermo Fisher Scientific.
• Accessories and reagents which have not been approved by Thermo Fisher Scientific are used.
• The instrument is not operated or maintained in accordance with instructions.
Symbols
The following symbols and conventions may be used throughout this document and on the instrument:

This symbol is used on the instrument, or in a document, to indicate that instructions must
be followed for safe and correct operation. If this symbol appears on the instrument, always
refer to the operator guide.

This symbol is used on the instrument, or in a document, to indicate that there are potential
biological risks associated with the instrument and / or with instrument use. Always use
Good Laboratory Practice.

This symbol is used on the instrument, or in a document, to indicate that irritants or

potentially harmful chemicals are present. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets for the
products, and always use Good Laboratory Practice.

This symbol indicates that a surface is hot. If this symbol appears on the instrument, always
refer to the operator guide.

Manufacturer.

This symbol is used on the instrument, or in the document, to indicate that instructions for
use must be consulted.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

How to use this Guide

Introduction
The Thermo Scientific Excelsior AS (referred to as Excelsior AS) is intended for use in pathology laboratories by
operators familiar with tissue processing techniques and laboratory equipment.
Before operating the Excelsior AS, ensure that you have read and understood the Safety Information and the
relevant sections in this Operator Guide.

Chapter Summary
This Operator Guide is structured to let you start processing quickly and safely with Excelsior AS.

Chapter 1 - Introduction to Excelsior AS

This chapter gives a tour of the instrument and its features. It describes the different parts of the instrument and
gives general information about using Excelsior AS.

Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

This chapter is a guide to installing and setting up Excelsior AS.

Chapter 3 - Basic Operation

This chapter explains how to load and process specimens using Excelsior AS on a day-to-day basis.

Chapter 4 - Advanced Operation

This chapter is for advanced users and administrators and describes how to change the instrument's settings and
create processing programs.

Chapter 5 - Cleaning and Maintenance

This chapter describes how to clean and maintain Excelsior AS to ensure that processing is safe, efficient and
reproducible.

Chapter 6 - Troubleshooting
This chapter is intended to help identify and resolve common faults and issues.

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 Table of Contents

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 – Introducing the Thermo Scientific™ Excelsior™ AS ................................................ 15
Introduction to Excelsior AS .......................................................................................................................... 16
IVD Intended Use ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Tissue Cassettes ......................................................................................................................................... 16
Approved Reagents .................................................................................................................................... 16
Identification of Parts ..................................................................................................................................... 17
System Specifications ..................................................................................................................................... 18
Mechanical Specification ........................................................................................................................... 18
Electrical Specification ............................................................................................................................... 18
Interface Connections ................................................................................................................................ 18
Fuses .......................................................................................................................................................... 19
Environmental Specification ...................................................................................................................... 19
The Excelsior AS Interface ............................................................................................................................. 20
Using the Touch Screen ............................................................................................................................. 20
Menus, Options and Buttons ..................................................................................................................... 21
On-screen Help ......................................................................................................................................... 21
The Main Screen and Information Bar ...................................................................................................... 22
Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup ........................................................................................... 25
Unpacking and Moving the Instrument ......................................................................................................... 26
Unpacking ................................................................................................................................................. 26
Moving the Instrument.............................................................................................................................. 26
Instrument Positioning and Setup .................................................................................................................. 27
Centre of Gravity Positions ........................................................................................................................ 27
Levelling the Instrument ............................................................................................................................ 28
Fitting the Filters ........................................................................................................................................... 29
Connections ................................................................................................................................................... 31
Connecting to Mains Power ...................................................................................................................... 31
Connecting a Remote Alarm ...................................................................................................................... 32
Connecting an Autodialer .......................................................................................................................... 33
Connecting to a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) ..................................................... 34
Initial Setup ................................................................................................................................................... 35
Instrument Start-up Procedure .................................................................................................................. 35
Setting the System Time and Date ............................................................................................................. 37
Configuring Reagents..................................................................................................................................... 39

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5
Defining Reagent Names ........................................................................................................................... 39
Setting Reagent Storage Temperatures ....................................................................................................... 40
Setting Use Limits ..................................................................................................................................... 42
Loading Reagents ....................................................................................................................................... 43
Running the Load Sequence ...................................................................................................................... 44
Loading Wax ............................................................................................................................................. 45
Loading Flush Reagents ............................................................................................................................. 47
Flushing the Reaction Chamber ................................................................................................................. 48
Loading Dehydrants .................................................................................................................................. 49
Loading Clearants ...................................................................................................................................... 50
Loading Fixatives ....................................................................................................................................... 52
Making Additional Changes Before Processing............................................................................................... 53
Chapter 3 – Basic Operation ................................................................................................... 55
Routine Processing ......................................................................................................................................... 56
Loading Specimens .................................................................................................................................... 57
Setting the Fill Level .................................................................................................................................. 59
Starting a Program ..................................................................................................................................... 60
Quality Control Checks ................................................................................................................................. 61
Instrument Faults ...................................................................................................................................... 61
Monitoring a Program ................................................................................................................................... 62
Adding Specimens .......................................................................................................................................... 64
Stopping a Process.......................................................................................................................................... 66
Aborting a Program........................................................................................................................................ 67
Completing a Program ................................................................................................................................... 67
Draining the Reaction Chamber ................................................................................................................ 68
Cleaning the Reaction Chamber ................................................................................................................ 69
Flushing the Reaction Chamber ................................................................................................................. 70
Flushing the Instrument ............................................................................................................................ 71
Advanced Processing ...................................................................................................................................... 72
Selecting a Program ................................................................................................................................... 72
Changing Program Parameters ................................................................................................................... 73
Adjusting the End Time ............................................................................................................................ 74
Changing the Start Step ............................................................................................................................. 75
Changing the Delay Settings ...................................................................................................................... 76
Changing the Delay Step ........................................................................................................................... 77
Quality Control, Filter and Reagent Renewal Limits ...................................................................................... 78

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 Table of Contents
Filter and Reagent Usage Information ....................................................................................................... 78
Wax Discard and Reagent Rotation Information ....................................................................................... 79
Renewing Fixative Reagents ........................................................................................................................... 80
Renewing Flush Reagents ............................................................................................................................... 82
Renewing Dehydrants, Clearants and Infiltrants Using Rotation ............................................................... 83
Postponing Reagent Rotation .................................................................................................................... 86
Reagent Rotation Example......................................................................................................................... 87
Chapter 4 - Advanced Operation ............................................................................................. 91
Reagent Management..................................................................................................................................... 92
Configuring and Loading Reagents ............................................................................................................ 92
Reagent and Filter Quality Control ................................................................................................................ 92
Reagent, Wax and Filter Checks ................................................................................................................ 92
Displaying Detailed Reagent Information .................................................................................................. 94
Inspecting reagents and waxes .................................................................................................................... 95
Inspecting a Reagent .................................................................................................................................. 96
Discarding a Reagent after Inspection ........................................................................................................ 97
Loading a Reagent or Wax After a Discard................................................................................................. 98
Rotating a reagent or wax after a discard .................................................................................................... 98
Running and Viewing Reports ................................................................................................................... 99
Reagent Rotation ......................................................................................................................................... 101
Triggers for Reagent Rotation .................................................................................................................. 101
Requesting Reagent Rotation ................................................................................................................... 104
Concept Demonstration .......................................................................................................................... 106
Customisation and Workflow ...................................................................................................................... 107
Customising Your Instrument ................................................................................................................. 107
Setting the Workflow Processing Options ................................................................................................ 109
Programs and Flushes ................................................................................................................................... 111
Viewing Program or Flush Details ........................................................................................................... 112
Creating a New Program or Flush ............................................................................................................ 116
Editing a Program or Flush ...................................................................................................................... 119
Start Type ................................................................................................................................................ 124
Access Code Protection ................................................................................................................................ 125
Enabling Access Code Protection ............................................................................................................. 126
Adding a New System User...................................................................................................................... 127
Granting Access to a Function ................................................................................................................. 128
Removing Access to a Function ............................................................................................................... 128

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5
Deleting a System User ............................................................................................................................ 129
Audio and Remote Alarms ........................................................................................................................... 130
Using Audio and Remote Alarms ............................................................................................................. 130
File Operations ............................................................................................................................................ 132
Saving Programs and Flushes ................................................................................................................... 133
Loading Programs and Flushes ................................................................................................................. 134
Loading and Saving Setup ........................................................................................................................ 139
Setting Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Messages ....................................................... 140
Language ...................................................................................................................................................... 140
Changing the Display Language .............................................................................................................. 140
Customer Services ........................................................................................................................................ 141
Chapter 5 - Cleaning and Maintenance .................................................................................. 143
Cleaning Safety and Tasks ............................................................................................................................ 144
Cleaning Safety ........................................................................................................................................ 144
Clearing Spillages..................................................................................................................................... 145
Daily and Weekly Cleaning Tasks ........................................................................................................... 145
Wax and Wax Baths ..................................................................................................................................... 146
Discarding Used Wax .............................................................................................................................. 146
Cleaning the Wax Bath ............................................................................................................................ 146
Reagent and Flush Bottles ............................................................................................................................ 147
Cleaning the Reagent Supply Bottle Dip Tubes ....................................................................................... 147
Cleaning the Flush 3 Water Bottle ........................................................................................................... 148
General Cleaning and Maintenance ............................................................................................................. 149
Cleaning the Display ............................................................................................................................... 149
Changing Filters ...................................................................................................................................... 149
Regular Maintenance Checks ................................................................................................................... 150
Instrument Shutdown Procedure ............................................................................................................. 150
Unloading Reagents ................................................................................................................................. 151
Chapter 6 -Troubleshooting .................................................................................................. 155
Faults ........................................................................................................................................................... 156
Alert Icons ............................................................................................................................................... 156
Using the Fault Status Screen................................................................................................................... 158
Processing Problems - Soft, Spongy Tissue............................................................................................... 160
Processing Problems - Hard, Brittle Tissue .............................................................................................. 161
Frequently Asked Questions ......................................................................................................................... 162
Appendices ........................................................................................................................... 173

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 Table of Contents
Appendix A - Accessories .............................................................................................................................. 174
Accessories Baskets ................................................................................................................................... 174
Extraction Adaptor Kits ........................................................................................................................... 174
Filters ...................................................................................................................................................... 174
Reagent Bottles and Wax Kits .................................................................................................................. 175
General .................................................................................................................................................... 175
Appendix B - Fitting the Optional Vent Adapters ........................................................................................ 176
Extraction Vent Adapter .......................................................................................................................... 176
Downdraft Extraction Vent Adapter ........................................................................................................ 176
Appendix C – Repacking Instructions .......................................................................................................... 177
Appendix D - Approved Reagents ................................................................................................................ 181
Appendix E - Program Examples .................................................................................................................. 182
Routine Overnight................................................................................................................................... 182
Daytime Rapids ....................................................................................................................................... 183
Standard Flush Program .......................................................................................................................... 183
Extended Flush Program .......................................................................................................................... 183
Appendix F - Screen Maps ........................................................................................................................... 184
Main Screen............................................................................................................................................. 184
Process ..................................................................................................................................................... 185
Flush ....................................................................................................................................................... 186
Quality Control ....................................................................................................................................... 187
Options ................................................................................................................................................... 188
Index .................................................................................................................................... 190

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Chapter 1 – Introducing the Thermo Scientific™ Excelsior™ AS
Welcome to the Excelsior AS Operator Guide.
This chapter introduces Excelsior AS and provides an overview of the instrument.
The following subjects are covered:
• Introduction and compatibility
• System interface
• Identification of parts
• System specifications
• Getting help

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Introduction to Excelsior AS
The Thermo Scientific Excelsior AS is an enclosed automated tissue processor. It combines custom programming
with simple operation and reagent management.
Specimen cassettes are loaded into the instrument in organised or Random baskets. Up to 222 cassettes can be
processed at any one time in Organised baskets; optional accessories allow up to 300 cassettes to be processed
simultaneously.
When you start a processing program, Excelsior AS moves through the process steps, drawing in reagents in turn
and agitating the baskets to stir reagent around the specimens. The instrument can be set up to heat the chamber
and put the chamber under constant or cycled vacuum conditions for individual process steps. Samples can be
processed unattended either overnight or during the day.
For more information and step-by-step instructions, refer to Routine Processing on page 56. If you require more
flexibility, refer to Advanced Processing on page 72 for information on how you can take full control of processing
parameters.

IVD Intended Use

The Excelsior AS is an in vitro diagnostic device.
It is intended to be used in a laboratory environment for the fixation, dehydration, clearing and infiltration of
pathology specimens prior to embedding and sectioning and subsequent processing and diagnosis by a
pathologist.

Tissue Cassettes
These are loaded either into Organised baskets, which are loaded into the instrument in pairs, or a Random
basket, which is ideal for larger specimens. Other baskets, including a 50 cassette Organised basket and a
SecureSette basket are available. Refer to Appendix A - Accessories on page 174 for details.

Approved Reagents
Excelsior AS must be installed, loaded and used ONLY with reagents from the approved
reagent list shown in Appendix D - Approved Reagents on page 181.
You must not use any other reagents with Excelsior AS under any circumstances.

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 Chapter 1 - Introducing Excelsior AS

Identification of Parts
The following diagrams identify the different components of Excelsior AS. Familiarise yourself with the location
of the Reaction Chamber, USB port, filters, wax baths, waste wax tray, fixative and flush reagent bottles and
exchange bottles.
The dehydrants and clearants are stored in the back of the instrument in concealed bottles and cannot be accessed
directly.
1. Touch screen
2. Removable tray
3. Filter compartment
4. USB port
5. Flush reagent bottles
6. Exchange bottles
7. Fixative bottles
8. Wax baths and waste wax tray
9. Reaction Chamber
10. Downdraft filter compartment

Excelsior AS (front view, doors open)

The USB port is for memory sticks only.

Do not connect any other type of USB device to the Excelsior AS.

1. Electrical connections panel

2. Concealed reagent bottles

Excelsior AS (rear view)

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

System Specifications
The specifications of the Excelsior AS instrument are shown in the following tables.

Use safe lifting practices when moving the instrument. Excelsior AS weighs approximately
165 kg (363 lb) when empty and 250 kg (551 lb) when full. At least two people are
required to safely move the instrument.

Mechanical Specification
Width 710 mm (26.5 in)
Depth 580 mm (20.5 in)
Height to working area (with tray) 1080 mm (42.5 in)
Height to top of monitor 1370 mm (54 in)
Weight with no reagents 165 kg (363 lb)
Weight with typical reagents 250 kg (551 lb)

Electrical Specification
Power Supply Voltages 100 - 240 VAC (~)
Maximum supply voltage fluctuations not to
exceed ± 10% of nominal voltage.

Frequency 50 / 60 Hz
Power 1300 VA (maximum) 300 VA (typical)

Interface Connections
Remote Alarm 24 V DC, 3A max, operation non-powered output
The external remote alarm must comply with
IEC60950 or IEC61010-1.

LIMS Serial RS232

Netmon RJ45

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 Chapter 1 - Introducing Excelsior AS

Fuses
Fuses must be replaced by technically competent personnel.

Remote alarm fuses (x 2) F 5A 250V

Environmental Specification
For indoor use only.

Temperature (operating limits) +5°C to +40°C (+41°F to +104°F)

Temperature (recommended operation) +15°C to +30°C (+59°F to +86°F)
Performance may deteriorate when operated outside
this temperature range.
Temperature (transit/storage) -25°C to +55°C (-13°F to 131°F), +70°C (158°F) for
short exposure.
Humidity Maximum 80% RH at 31°C (88°F) decreasing linearly
to 50% RH at 40°C (104°F)
Altitude Up to 2000 m (6500 feet)
Pollution Degree 2
Over Voltage Category II

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

The Excelsior AS Interface

Excelsior AS has a compact and informative user interface that displays the following information:
• Context sensitive help.
• Reaction Chamber status, program details and process status.
• Graphics, showing processing and reagent movement in real time.

Using the Touch Screen

The Excelsior AS touch screen user interface is used to initiate processing and set system preferences and settings.
To use the screen, simply press the button corresponding to the function that you want to use. For some tasks, for
example reviewing quality control information, select the required reagent container, wax bath or filter by
touching the picture that corresponds to the item.

Note
Avoid using sharp or pointed objects to press buttons on the touch screen. Use a finger (with or without gloves), or,
if you require a stylus, use the eraser-tipped end of a pencil.

Number Pad

The on-screen number pad is used to enter access codes and

define some instrument settings.

• To clear the entered value back to zero, press .

• To delete the last digit that you entered, press .

Note The on-screen number pad

If you enter an invalid value it is shown in red text. You will

not be able to press OK on the screen until the value is
corrected.

Keyboard

The on-screen keyboard appears when you need to

define or change the names of reagents, programs,
flushes and system users.
• Press the appropriate keys to edit text in the text
box above the keyboard.
• To save your changes and return to the previous
screen, press OK.
• For special characters, press the Alt key.

The on-screen keyboard

Example special characters

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 Chapter 1 - Introducing Excelsior AS

Menus, Options and Buttons

The touch screen interface lets you perform tasks intuitively, efficiently and consistently. Refer to Appendix F -
Screen Maps on page 184 for a diagrammatic representation of the instrument's menu options and the screens
that are accessible from the touch screen.

OK and Back Buttons

If you change system settings or create new programs, ensure that you press the correct button to exit from the
screen.
Takes you back to the previous screen and saves any changes you made to settings on the
current screen.
Takes you back to the previous screen without saving the changes that you made to any
of the settings on the current screen.

Using the Up and Down Buttons to Set Values

When you are setting the system time and date, you will be presented with a set of up
and down arrow buttons. Press these buttons to set the required time or date.
See Setting the System Time and Date on page 37. Up and down arrow buttons

Selected Settings In Yellow

Some instrument settings can be selected or enabled by
pressing on the required option.
When selected, the text is displayed in yellow rather The selected setting is shown in yellow
than white.
For example, three processing options are available
(Single Program, Daytime Overnight or No Default);
the one in use (Daytime Overnight) is shown in yellow.

On-screen Help
Excelsior AS includes context-sensitive on-screen help to quickly answer any queries you may have about the
operation and setup of the instrument. More detailed information is provided in this Operator Guide.

• To display on-screen help, press the icon which is displayed in the top right of each screen.
• To continue, press OK to close the help window.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

The Main Screen and Information Bar

The Main Screen provides access to all of the functions that are required to initiate programs and flushes, check
the status of the reagents and filters, and configure the instrument to meet the requirements of your own
laboratory.

Note
For a full set of screen maps showing how the instrument's software menus and options are organised, see
Appendix F - Screen Maps on page 184.

Menu Options
The main menu is located on the right side of the Main Screen:

The Main Screen

The following menu options are available:

• Process: This opens either the Reaction Chamber Available screen, from where you can start
a processing program, or the Reaction Chamber Not Available screen, if there are
no reagents loaded or the chamber is not prepared to start.
• Flush: This opens the Select Flush screen. From here you can start programs to flush the
instrument.
• Quality Control: This opens the Quality Control screen. From here you can visually inspect reagents
in the chamber, review use counts for reagents and filters and view and print quality
control reports. Warning triangles provide visual alerts to problems that may affect
processing.
• Options: This opens the Options menu which provides access to menus and settings that
enable the instrument to be customised and configured.

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 Chapter 1 - Introducing Excelsior AS

Information Bar
The Information Bar is located at the bottom of the interface.

System information displayed at the bottom of the interface

It displays the following information:

• System date and time: The current date and time.
See Setting the System Time and Date on page 37.
• Alert icons: These include quality control alerts and hardware issues.
See Alert Icons on page 156.
• Instrument ID and Customised text: Customisable text that can be used to record customer-specific
information about the instrument.
See Customising Your Instrument on page 107.

Gauges, Reaction Chamber Status and Reagent Monitoring

On the left side of the Main Screen is a series of gauges for monitoring the status of reagents and associated
components. The following gauges appear in the top-left position on the Main Screen:
Alcohol Quality

This gauge shows the quality of alcohol used in the A1 bottle. Quality is determined using specific
gravity measurements. When the specific gravity falls beneath a specified value (shown on the
Alcohol Quality Gauge as the red area), you will be prompted to rotate reagents to maintain the
quality of processing. See Alcohol Quality Warning on page 83.
The red area is adjustable up or down in steps of approximately 1.25%. The black line indicates the
factory default setting which is approximately 45%.
Pressure

This gauge shows the pressure in the Reaction Chamber. The value will rise and fall during
processing according to the vacuum conditions specified in the selected program and as reagents are
drawn into and drained out of the Reaction Chamber.
The Reaction Chamber lid can be opened when the value is in the green area of the gauge.
Temperature

This gauge shows the temperature in the Reaction Chamber. The value will rise and fall during
processing according to the conditions specified in the selected program.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Reaction Chamber and Containers

On the left side of the Main Screen is a graphical representation of the Reaction Chamber and various reagent
containers. The level of reagents indicated in these will change during processing, reagent inspection, reagent
renewal and rotation.
The following colours represent the type of reagent in each of the containers:
• Green – Water-based (fixatives and Flush 3)
• Blue – Dehydrants (alcohol and Flush 2)
• Red – Clearants (xylene and Flush 1)
• Yellow – Wax / Paraffin

Reaction Chamber Waste wax tray Wax baths Flush bottles

Exchange bottles Fixative bottles Reagent bottles: dehydrant (alcohol) Reagent bottles: clearant (xylene)

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Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup
This chapter describes the installation and setup procedures for Excelsior AS and covers the following subjects:
• Unpacking and positioning the instrument.
• Fitting the filters into the instrument.
• Connecting the instrument to mains power and switching on.
• Choosing the display language and setting the system time and date.
• Defining and loading reagents in preparation for specimen processing.

Note
If Excelsior AS has already been installed and the required reagents have been loaded, read
Chapter 3 – Basic Operation from page 55 for a description of the routine operation of the instrument.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Unpacking and Moving the Instrument

Unpacking
Inspect the packaging. If it is damaged, or the contents do not match the supplied packing list, or both, inform
your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative then unpack the instrument and inspect it carefully.
Instructions for unpacking are provided on the packing case.
When unpacking the instrument, do not discard the packaging – store it flat for future use.
Ensure that you have all parts on the packing list. If parts are missing or broken, contact your local Thermo Fisher
Scientific representative.

Note
Quote the instrument Serial Number, your Order Number, Invoice Number, Delivery Note (or Packing Slip)
Number and the Date in all communications. If you need to transport the instrument, refer to Appendix C –
Repacking Instructions on page 177.

Moving the Instrument

Use safe lifting practices when moving Excelsior AS.
At least two people are required to move the instrument.
The instrument should not be moved or tilted when it is loaded with reagents and molten
wax.
Excelsior AS weighs approximately 250 kg (551 lb) when fully loaded and 165 kg
(363 lb) when empty.

Moving the instrument when empty

Ensure that the transport handles are fitted. Carefully tilt the instrument back and push it on the rear wheels.

Note
On smooth floors, the instrument can be moved without tilting.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Instrument Positioning and Setup

Centre of Gravity Positions
Where seismic regulations require the instrument to be secured, use the handle locations at the rear of the
instrument (2 x M8 female threads).
The following diagrams illustrate the centre of gravity positions for an empty Excelsior AS and an Excelsior AS
loaded with an average load of reagents:

Empty instrument: Instrument with an average load of reagents:

Centre of gravity position (empty) Centre of gravity position (average load of reagents)

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Levelling the Instrument

Excelsior AS must be level from front to back.
Before loading the instrument with reagents and wax, ensure that it is fully adjusted.

To level the instrument:

• Move Excelsior AS to its final position. The floor should be level and any floor covering must be non-
flammable. There should be at least 95 mm (4 inches) behind the instrument. To maintain this distance,
leave the transit handles fitted.
• Open the Reaction Chamber lid, remove the Random basket from the chamber and close the lid.
• If necessary, adjust the front castors to level the instrument. To do this, using the provided wrench
(spanner) and adjustment rod, loosen the locknut with the wrench and then turn the castor with the
adjustment rod. When the instrument is level, tighten the locknut.

Adjusting the front castors

Note
The factory settings should be sufficient to ensure that the instrument is level when installed.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Fitting the Filters

Excelsior AS is delivered with new filters fitted into the instrument. Plastic wrappers must be removed before use.
For additional information about the filters, refer to Filter and Reagent Usage Information on page 78 and
Reagent and Filter Quality Control on page 92.

Note
The filters fit tightly into their slots for efficient extraction. It is recommended that you change the filters
every 13 weeks.

Fitting Extraction Filters

Both extraction filters must be fitted; it is not possible to operate the instrument if
either filter is missing.

For correct operation of the extraction system, ensure that the doors are closed.

The two main extraction filters, separated by a removable metal baffle, are located in a compartment behind the
right door. The upper filter uses potassium permanganate to extract formaldehyde vapours. The lower filter uses
charcoal to extract solvent vapours.

If you are replacing filters, remove the old filters from the instrument and install new
filters. Dispose of the used filters in accordance with your local regulations and
procedures.

To remove and replace the air extraction filters:

• Open the right door of the instrument, turn the filter door latch 90° clockwise and open the filter door.
• Remove the metal baffle plate.
• Slide out the filters and remove the plastic wrapper from each filter.
• Replace the filters in the correct positions (upper = formaldehyde, lower = charcoal) so that the airflow
arrow on each filter points up.
• Replace the baffle plate, close the filter door securing it with the latch, and then close the right-hand door.

Opening the filter door Removing the baffle plate Removing the filters

Note
The red emergency vacuum release is located behind the baffle plate.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Fitting the Downdraft Filter

The downdraft filter (formaldehyde) is at the back of the instrument, behind the Reaction Chamber.

If you are replacing filters, remove the old filters from the instrument and install new
filters. Dispose of the used filters in accordance with your local regulations and
procedures.

To remove and replace the downdraft filter:

• Open the downdraft filter cover.
• Lift out the filter and remove the plastic wrapper.
• Replace the filter in the correct position, ensuring that the airflow arrow points away from the instrument,
and close the filter cover.

Opening the downdraft filter cover Removing the filter

Optional Vent Adaptors

The optional vent adapters allow fumes to be extracted from Excelsior AS into a fume cupboard or hood, or
vented to the outside atmosphere.
For more information, see Appendix B - Fitting the Optional Vent Adapters on page 176.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Connections
Connecting to Mains Power
Once Excelsior AS has been unpacked and installed, it can be connected to mains power.

Ensure that the mains supply voltage corresponds with the voltage rating on the rating plate
on the back of the instrument.
The ~ symbol on the rating plate indicates that the instrument operates on an alternating
current supply (AC).

To connect the instrument to mains power:

• Ensure that the I/O power switch at the rear of the instrument is switched off (O side of the switch
pushed in).

Mains power connections

• Insert the appropriate mains cable into the mains connector on the rear panel of the instrument.
• Connect the mains supply cable to a local power supply outlet.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Connecting a Remote Alarm

Connections for Remote Alarms 1 and 2 are on the back panel of the instrument. For more information, see
Audio and Remote Alarms on page 130.

Remote alarm connections

Normal operating conditions for these relays are:

• Relay 1 - unpowered state.
• Relay 2 - powered state.

Note
Relay 2 is used as a power fail alarm and is in the alarm condition when the instrument is first switched on.

External circuits must be connected to the remote alarm socket by a technically competent
person. The external circuit should comply with the requirements of either IEC 61010-1 or
IEC 60950, or both.
The cable length is to be less than 3 metres.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Connecting an Autodialer
The following two methods can be used when connecting an autodialer to the instrument for remote alarm
monitoring.
Typically, connection to Alarm 2 is recommended as this gives a positive alarm state if the instrument shuts down.
• Connection to Alarm 1
Closed: Relay fires when an alarm is generated.

Autodialer connection to Alarm 1

• Connection to Alarm 2
Held Closed: Relay closed and released when an alarm is generated.

Autodialer connection to Alarm 2

Note
During power-up, alarms will be active but will go to a normal state once the instrument software has loaded.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Connecting to a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Excelsior AS can be programmed to send user-defined LIMS messages via the serial D-connector (RS-232) on the
back of the instrument when specific events occur.
For details on the type of messages that can be sent and how to set them, refer to Setting Laboratory Information
Management System (LIMS) Messages on page 140.

LIMS Serial D-connector

LIMS specification

• Baud rate: 115200

• Bits: 8
• Parity: None
• Stop bits: 1
• Handshaking: Data Terminal Ready (DTR) and Request To Send (RTS)
• Cable length: To be less than 3 metres

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Initial Setup
Once the instrument has been unpacked, installed in the required location and connected to mains power, you
must then:
• Switch the instrument on.
• Wait for the system software to load.
• Choose the language for the user interface.
• Check the system time and date.
• Configure the reagents that you intend to use.
• Set use limits for fixatives, filters and flush reagents.
• Load reagents into the instrument.

Instrument Start-up Procedure

Once Excelsior AS has been connected it can be switched on.

To switch the instrument on:

• Press the I (ON) side of the I/O power switch.
When Excelsior AS is powered 'ON', you should hear the cooling fans start.
After about 25 seconds, the Thermo Scientific logo is displayed.
After about one minute, the Select a Language screen is displayed.

To select the system language:

• From the Select a Language screen,

press the required language and then
press OK.
• The Main Screen is then displayed.
For a description of the Main Screen
functions, see The Main Screen and
Information Bar on page 22.

Note
Notice that all the containers and
bottles on the left of the display are
empty. When reagents have been loaded
into the instrument, they will appear
full with colour-coded reagents.
Selecting the user interface language
Alert icons are displayed at the bottom
of the screen and must be cleared, see
Clearing the Alert Icons on page 36.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Clearing the Alert Icons

When the instrument is first switched on, alert icons are displayed in the grey Information Bar at the bottom of
the screen. These icons must be cleared before any further operations.

Icon How to clear

Battery Isolation Switch Alert.
Turn on the Battery Isolation switch to restore battery backup and ensure power to the instrument.
Leave the battery switched on and do not switch it off unless instructed to do so. See below for the
location of the switch.
Reaction Chamber Heater Trip Alert
Press the Heater Reset switch to reset the Reaction Chamber heater trip circuit. See below for the
location of the switch.
Quality Control Alert
From the Main Screen, select Quality Control to display the Quality Control Screen.
Load reagents if required. For more information, see Loading Reagents on page 43 and Quality
Control Checks on page 61.
Hardware Issue
Select Options > Faults, or press the wrench (spanner) icon, to display the Fault Status screen.
From here, you can clear or acknowledge any faults.
For more information, see Using the Fault Status Screen on page 158.

Note
On starting the system, this icon is displayed until the Heater Reset Switch has been pressed.

Battery Isolation, Heater Reset and Push to Test Switches

The switches are shown below. The inset shows the view inside the cabinet, behind the right door, above the flush
reagent bottles (the pipes have been hidden for clarity):

1. Battery Isolation switch

2. Heater Reset Switch
3. Push to Test Switch

Battery Isolation, Heater Reset and Push to Test Switches

Note
When the Heater Reset switch is set and the Battery Isolation switch is turned on, the icons disappear
from the display.
When first charging the battery, after switching on both the Main I/O power switch and the Battery Isolation
switch, the instrument should be left for a period of 14 hours (overnight) to ensure the battery is
fully charged.
The Push-to-Test switch can be used to test the operation of the Heater Reset switch.
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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Setting the System Time and Date

Once you have selected the display language, check the system time and date and adjust them if necessary.

Note
It is important to set the time and date correctly so that programs start and end at the correct time and on the
correct day. Both time and date can be changed later, as required.

To set the system time:

• From the Main Screen, press Options to display

the Options menu.
• Press Set Time to display the Options - Set
Time screen. Options menu

• To toggle between 12 and 24 hour time format,

press 12/24.
When selected (yellow text), the time is shown in
12-hour format as 'AM' or 'PM'; when not
selected it is shown in 24-hour format:

Setting the system time - 12 hour format

Setting the system time - 24 hour format

• Press Hour or Minute and use the up and down Moves the time back in 5 minute or 5
buttons to set the required time. hour increments.
• Press OK to save the time setting and return to Moves the time back in 1 minute or 1
the Options screen. hour increments.
• Press OK again to return to the main screen.
Moves the time forward in 1 minute
or 1 hour increments.
Moves the time forward in 5 minute
or 5 hour increments.

Up and down buttons

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

To set the system date:

• From the Main Screen, press Options to display

the Options menu.
• Press Set Date to display the Options - Set Date
screen. Options menu

• Choose the required date format by pressing the

appropriate button. The selected date format is
shown in yellow text.
Available date formats are:
dd/mm/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy
yyyy/mm/dd

The Options - Set Date screen

• Select Year, Month, or Day and use the up and Moves the date back in 5 day, 5
down buttons to set the required date. month or 5 year increments.
• Press OK to save the date setting. Moves the date back in 1 day, 1
• Press OK again to return to the Main Screen. month or 1 year increments.

Moves the date forward in 1 day, 1

month or 1 year increments.
Moves the date forward in 5 day, 5
month or 5 year increments.

Up and down buttons

Note
The time and date are displayed in the bottom left
corner of the Screen:

Time and date display

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Configuring Reagents
Before you load the reagents into the instrument, you must define the following:
• Names of the fixative, dehydrant, clearant, infiltrant and flush reagents that will be used.
• Storage temperatures for the concealed reagents and infiltrants.
• Use limits for fixatives, filters and flush reagents.

Defining Reagent Names

By default, Excelsior AS uses the following reagent names:
• Formalin for the fixatives (fixative bottles Fix 1 and Fix 2).
• Alcohol for the dehydrants (concealed reagent bottles A1–A6).
• Xylene for the clearants (concealed reagent bottles X1–X3).
• Wax for the infiltration reagents (wax containers W1–W3).
• Flush for the flush reagents (flush containers Flush 1–3).
These names can be changed, as required.

To define reagent names:

• From the Main Screen, select Options >

Instrument Setup.
The Options - Instrument Setup menu appears:

The Options - Instrument Setup menu

• Press Reagent Names.

The Instrument Setup - Reagent Names screen
appears:

The Instrument Setup - Reagent Names screen

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

• Press the button corresponding to the name that

you want to change:

Setting reagent names

• Use the on-screen keyboard to type the new

name of the reagent and press OK.

Note
A maximum of 18 characters can be used for reagent
names.

• Change the names of other reagents, as required.

• Press OK to save and return to the Instrument
Defining a reagent name using the on-screen keyboard
Setup - Reagent Names screen.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.

Note
On-screen, the first letter of the name labels for each
of the wax baths, dehydrant bottles and clearant
bottles, will change to match the first letter of the
new reagent name.

Setting Reagent Storage Temperatures

Excelsior AS can heat the concealed reagents for faster, more consistent processing. The default storage
temperatures are 30°C for alcohol and xylene and 62°C for wax. Storage at ambient temperature is available, if
required. The instrument will not cool reagents to temperatures lower than ambient.

Note
Wax storage and program temperatures should be set at 4°C above wax melting temperature.

To set wax storage temperature:

• From the Main Screen, press Options >

Instrument Setup > Storage Temperatures.
The Instrument Setup - Storage Temperature
screen appears:
• Press the Wax Storage Temp. value.

Defining wax storage temperature

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

The Storage Temperature - Set Wax Storage

Temperature screen appears:
• Use the number pad to set the required storage
temperature or press Amb. to set the storage
temperature to ambient.

Note
The wax storage temperature range is 45°C to 65°C
and ambient.

• Press OK to save and return to the Instrument

Setup - Storage Temperature screen.

The Storage Temperature - Set Wax Storage Temperature screen

To set reagent storage temperature:

• From the Main Screen, select Options >

Instrument Setup > Storage Temperatures.
The Instrument Setup - Storage Temperature
screen appears:
• Press the Reagent Storage Temp. value.

Defining reagent storage temperature

The Storage Temperature - Set Reagent Storage

Temperature screen appears:
• Use the number pad to set the required storage
temperature or press Amb. to set the storage
temperature to ambient.

Note
The reagent storage temperature range is ambient
to 35°C.

• Press OK to save and return to the Instrument

Setup - Storage Temperature screen.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.

The Storage Temperature - Set Reagent Storage Temperature screen

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Setting Use Limits

Excelsior AS tracks the usage of fixatives, filters and flush reagents and provides visual warnings when these need
to be changed or renewed on the Quality Control screen. See Quality Control Checks on page 61 and Reagent,
Wax and Filter Checks on page 92 for more information.
Use limits should be set before you start processing. They can be changed later, as required.

Note
The renewal of the infiltrant and concealed processing reagents is managed automatically by the system based on
the default setting for alcohol quality. If you want to change the way in which these reagents are renewed, refer to
Triggers for Reagent Rotation on page 101.

To set use limits:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Reagent Use Limits.
The Instrument Setup – Reagent Use Limits screen appears.
• Press each reagent / filter button in turn, define the required use limit using the number pad and
press OK.
• To turn the use limit off, set the value to zero (0).
• When you have defined all the use limits, press OK to save and return to the Instrument Setup – Reagent
Use Limits screen.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK repeatedly.

The Instrument Setup - Use Limits screen Setting use limits

Note
The use limit for the filters is measured in weeks. The default is 13 weeks.
The flush reagents can only be set from 1 to 5. The default is 5. The use limit for a flush cannot be turned off.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Loading Reagents
Before you can process specimens, you must load Excelsior AS with the required processing reagents. The names
of the reagents that you intend to use are defined using the Reagent Names option (see Defining Reagent Names
on page 39).
When you load reagents, Excelsior AS will guide you through the loading procedure to ensure that the required
reagents are loaded into the correct cabinet positions. You must then insert the colour-coded reagent tubes (with
evaporation cap) and confirm that the required reagents have been loaded into the appropriate positions in the
Reagent Storage Area.
Reagents must be loaded in the following order:
1. Wax
2. Flush (clearing) reagents
3. Dehydrants
4. Clearants
Fixatives are loaded from the Quality Control screen; you will be prompted to load these when you start a
processing run for the first time.

Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets when handling all reagents used with the instrument.
For a full list of approved reagents, see Appendix D - Approved Reagents
on page 181.

The Reagent Storage Area

Make sure that you familiarise yourself with the positions of the reagents in the Reagent Storage Area and the
colour-coded reagent tubes. The tubes are flexible and can be moved as required to ensure that the tubes fit into
the correct reagent container. If you rotate a tube, ensure that it is rotated back to avoid damage or leaks.
When connecting reagent tubes ensure that each pipe is:
• Free of any surface contamination.
• Fully inserted in the relevant bottle and
not bent, twisted, kinked or at an angle.
This diagram shows the colour of the
tube for each reagent position: 1. Fixative 1
2. Fixative 2
3. Exchange 1
4. Exchange 2
5. Flush 1
6. Flush 2
7. Flush 3

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Running the Load Sequence

The Load Sequence takes you through the steps that are required to load reagents into Excelsior AS in the
correct sequence.

Ensure that you load the correct reagent and concentration at each step; the instrument
cannot check that the correct reagents are loaded.

To initiate the Load Sequence:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Load Reagents to display the Instrument Setup - Load Sequence
screen.
Wax bath W1 is highlighted on the display, ready to be loaded:

Starting the Load Sequence

Note
Once reagents are loaded and you have completed the Load Sequence, you will not be able to run the Load
Reagents option again, unless you unload the reagents first. For more information, see Unloading Reagents on
page 151.

If you exit from the Load Sequence before it is complete (by pressing OK), loading will resume when you select the
Load Reagents option again. You will not be able to run programs unless all reagents are loaded. If you try to do
this, you will be prompted to load reagents.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Loading Wax
Wax loading comprises these steps:
• Filling the three wax baths with wax pellets.
• Starting the wax heaters.
• Fitting an empty, consumable waste wax tray and lid.

To load wax:
• Open the instrument's main doors.
• Lift the spring-loaded locking levers and open the two wax doors.
The right-hand wax door (W1 and W2) opens fully; the left-hand wax door (W3) opens to 45°.
• Starting from the right, fill each wax bath with wax pellets.
Use 4.2 kg of wax pellets per chamber to give 5.6 litres of molten wax.

Note
Ensure that the wax pellets are evenly distributed in the wax bath – push them towards the back if necessary.

The wax bath can be filled to within a few millimetres from the top of the dividing wall – the pellets melt to the
final, lower level within 4 to 6 hours. Take care not to spill any wax pellets.

Opening the wax bath doors Filling the wax bath

There is a risk of skin burns from molten wax.

Do not fill the Excelsior AS wax baths with molten wax. Use wax pellets only.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

To start the wax bath heaters:

Note
Before starting the wax bath heaters, make sure you have filled each wax bath with wax.

• On the Instrument Setup - Load Sequence

screen, press Wax Bath Heater ON to switch
on the wax bath heater and melt the wax pellets
in wax bath W1.
Wax bath W1 is now shown filled in yellow on
the screen and wax bath W2 is highlighted.
• Press Wax Bath Heater ON to heat the wax in
W2 and repeat for wax bath W3.
• When the wax has melted, ensure that the level
Maximum and minimum wax levels
is correct. The maximum and minimum levels
are clearly marked in each wax bath.

To fit a consumable waste wax tray and lid:

Note
Do not reuse waste wax trays.

• Ensure that a lid is fitted securely to the consumable waste wax tray.
• Slide the tray into position above the right-hand wax baths.
You may have to wait until the wax has started to melt to fit the waste wax tray into position correctly.
• Close both wax doors.

Do not heat the waste wax tray to above 65°C.

The waste wax tray must not be used with hot water.

Fitting the waste wax tray above Closing the wax bath doors F3 highlighted
W1 and W2

• You can now move on to load the other reagents into the instrument.
The first of the flush (cleaning) reagents (F3) will be highlighted on the screen ready to be loaded.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Loading Flush Reagents

Flush (cleaning) reagents are used to clean the Reaction Chamber between processing runs and also as part of the
reagent loading process. These reagents must be loaded in the following order:
• F3 (water)
• F1 (xylene)
• F2 (alcohol)
For details of approved flush reagents, refer to Appendix D - Approved Reagents on page 181.

Do not use xylene or xylene substitute as the third flush reagent.

Note
Ensure that the colour-coded reagent tubes are fully inserted into the bottles before loading. Excelsior AS uses the
manufacturer's five litre reagent bottles in positions F1 and F2 (1 US gallon bottles can also be used).
After removing reagent bottle caps, keep them in a safe place as they will be needed when the reagent is changed.

The flush reagents in the Reagent Storage Area are located in the following positions:

F3 (water) F1 (xylene) F2 (alcohol)

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

To load flush reagents:

• Fill the Flush 3 (F3) bottle (supplied with Excelsior AS) with water up to the underside of the fill-line and
replace the cap securely.
• Install the F3 bottle in the Reagent Storage Area and put the GREEN reagent tube into the bottle.
• Press Confirm Loaded on the Instrument Setup - Load Sequence screen.
F3 is now shown as full and F1 is outlined on the display.
• Take a new five litre bottle of F1 flush reagent (xylene).
• Place the bottle on top of the F3 bottle, and insert the RED reagent tube (with cap).
• Press Confirm Loaded on the Instrument Setup - Load Sequence screen.
F1 is now shown as full and F2 is outlined on the display.
• Take a new five litre bottle of F2 flush reagent (alcohol).
• Put the bottle on top of the F3 bottle, in front of bottle F1, and insert the BLUE reagent tube (with cap).
• Press Confirm Loaded on the Instrument
Setup - Load Sequence screen.
F2 is now shown as full and you are prompted
to press Start to prepare the Reaction Chamber
so that dehydrant and clearant can be loaded
into the concealed bottles at the back of the
instrument.

Press Start to prepare chamber

Flushing the Reaction Chamber

The Reaction Chamber must be flushed before dehydrants are loaded into the concealed
bottles at the back of the instrument.

To flush the chamber:

• Press Start.
The Reaction Chamber is flushed with flush
reagent, F2, followed by flush reagent, F3.
When the flush cycle is complete, Ex1 and A1
are highlighted on the display.

Flush cycle complete, Ex1 and A1 highlighted

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Loading Dehydrants
The next step in the Load Sequence is to load the dehydrants into the concealed bottles at the back of the
instrument. Various concentrations of dehydrant reagent are required.
Loading dehydrants comprises these steps:
• Place a 5 litre bottle with dehydrant at a specific concentration in the Ex1 position.
• Transfer the dehydrant reagent from Ex1 into the Reaction Chamber and then into the appropriate
concealed bottle at the back of the instrument.

To load dehydrants:

• Fill a 5 litre (or 1 US gallon) reagent bottle with

alcohol diluted to 75%.

Note:
The majority of under-fill problems on Excelsior AS
can be eliminated by using 5 litre reagent bottles.

• Put the bottle in position Ex1, and insert the

BLUE tube (with cap).
• Press Confirm Loaded on the Instrument
Setup - Load Sequence screen to load the first
dehydrant.
Dehydrant in position Ex1

Note
The instrument will check to see if reagent is already loaded in the concealed bottle.

If there is reagent present, press Discard. Ensure that you place an empty bottle into position Ex1 and press
Unload. Otherwise, press Return to transfer the reagent from the Reaction Chamber into bottle A1.

• Load the remaining dehydrants. To do this,

prepare the following solutions and load them
from the Ex1 position into the appropriate
concealed bottle. Press Confirm Loaded to
confirm the correct reagent is in the Ex1
position before loading.
• A2 = 90% alcohol
• A3 = 95% alcohol
• A4–A6 = 100% alcohol
When all of the dehydrants have been loaded, All dehydrants loaded, Ex2 and X1 highlighted
Ex2 and X1 are highlighted on the display.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Loading Clearants
Once the concealed dehydrant bottles have been loaded, you will be prompted to load clearants.
Loading clearants comprises these steps:
• Place a bottle of clearant in the Ex2 position.
• Transfer the reagent from the Ex2 position into the Reaction Chamber and then into the concealed
clearant bottles, X1, X2 and X3.

To load clearants:

• Put a 5 litre (or 1 US gallon) bottle of clearant

in position Ex2 and insert the RED tube (with
cap).
The Ex1 bottle can be removed during this step
to make loading easier.

Note:
The majority of under-fill problems on Excelsior AS
can be eliminated by using 5 litre reagent bottles.

• Press Confirm Loaded on the Instrument

Setup - Load Sequence screen to load X1.
• Repeat to load clearant from Ex2 into the
concealed bottles, X2 and X3.
Clearant in position Ex2

Note
The instrument will check to see if reagent is already loaded in the concealed bottle.

If there is reagent present, press Discard. Ensure that you place an empty bottle into position Ex2 and press
Unload. Otherwise, press Return to transfer the reagent from the Reaction Chamber into bottle X1.

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Flushing the Reaction Chamber

When all of the clearants are loaded, you are prompted to start a flush cycle (F2 followed by F3) to prepare the
Reaction Chamber for use.

To flush the chamber:

• Press Start.
When the flush cycle is finished, the Options - Instrument Setup menu is re-displayed.
• Press OK to return to the Options menu and then OK again to display the Main Screen.
Excelsior AS is now ready for use.

Note
The following bottles must be left in position for use when reagents are rotated and discarded:

• An empty bottle in position Ex2, with the RED tube inserted

• An empty bottle in position Ex1, with the BLUE tube inserted
To prevent reagent evaporation, ensure that the coloured caps are in place over the necks of the flush and
fixative bottles.

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Loading Fixatives
Fixatives in positions Fix1 and Fix2 in the Reagent Storage Area are not loaded as part of the Load Sequence.
Instead, the Quality Control screen is displayed when you attempt to start a process for the first time. This screen
will prompt for fixatives to be loaded into positions Fix1 and Fix2 (if Fix2 is to be used).
To load fixatives before this screen is automatically displayed, select Quality Control from the Main Screen.

Note
You do not have to load two fixative bottles into the instrument. However, the processing programs must be
amended to indicate that you are only using one fixative step. See Programs and Flushes on page 111 for
more information.

To load fixatives:

• Put fixative bottles in positions Fix1 and Fix2 (if

Fix 2 is used).
• Fully insert the GREEN reagent tubes together
with the GREEN caps.

Fixative bottles in position in the Reagent Storage Area

• On the Quality Control screen, press New.

• Press OK to exit from the screen.

The Quality Control screen

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 Chapter 2 - Installation and Setup

Making Additional Changes Before Processing

Once you have set the time and date and defined and loaded the required reagents, Excelsior AS is ready to
process specimens. You may, however, wish to make changes to some of the instrument settings or define your
own programs to ensure that Excelsior AS operates to meet your requirements.
Some of the things you may wish to specify or change include:
• Whether a Level option is available – this allows you to fill the chamber to a specific level when processing
specimens in Organised baskets.
• The preferred end time for overnight processing programs.
• The triggers for reagent rotation.
Refer to Chapter 4 - Advanced Operation on page 91 for details of the options and settings that can be used to
control how Excelsior AS operates and processes specimens.

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Chapter 3 – Basic Operation
This chapter describes how to process specimens using Excelsior AS.
This chapter covers the following subjects:
• Loading specimens into the instrument.
• Setting the fill level, if you are using Organised baskets and have enabled the Level button.
• Starting and monitoring a program.
• Adding additional specimens once a program has been started.
• Stopping or aborting a program.
• Completing a program.
• Running a selected program under user-defined conditions.
• Responding to quality control alerts and renewing processing reagents.

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Routine Processing
If you are using Excelsior AS to process specimens using the same program each day, then all you need to do is
load the specimens into the instrument and start the processing run. The screen that you use to start a program
automatically appears when you lift the instrument’s lid to load specimens.

Note
If this screen has been cancelled, just press Process on the Main Screen to re-display it and start processing.

The routine processing procedure is shown in the following flow chart:

When a run is started, Excelsior AS will automatically begin working through the individual steps so that the
program completes at the specified end time. For example, if you are processing overnight, you can load
specimens into the instrument at any time during the day and then start the program.
Specimens are held in a specified reagent, usually a fixative, until the start time is reached. Excelsior AS will then
process the specimens overnight so that they are ready for the next stage in your tissue processing workflow, the
following morning, at the specified end time.

Note
If you require more flexibility and need to change some of the program parameters for a specific run, refer to
Advanced Processing on page 72 for details.

Tissue should only be added during the fixative step.

If circumstances require tissue to be added after fixation, follow good laboratory practice.

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Loading Specimens
Excelsior AS allows you to process up to three levels of Organised baskets, arranged in pairs, at any one time.
A larger Random basket, which can process up to 300 cassettes, can also be used as an alternative to the smaller
Organised baskets.

Note
For details of the baskets that are available to hold specimen cassettes, refer to Appendix A - Accessories on
page 174.

Be aware of the samples used. They may pose a biohazard.

Observe Good Laboratory Practice when handling tissue.

Opening the Reaction Chamber:

• Open the Reaction Chamber. To do this, push

the handle away from you and lift the lid.
The Reaction Chamber Available screen is
automatically displayed:

Note
When the lid is open, fumes are extracted through
the downdraft filter behind the Reaction Chamber.

Chamber open, downdraft fan on The Reaction Chamber available screen

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Loading Cassettes and Baskets:

• Load the cassettes into the Organised basket.

If you are using a Random basket, tissue cassettes
should be carefully placed into the basket.

Loading cassettes into an Organised basket

• Load baskets (with a basket-lid) into the

chamber, stacked in uniform pairs, and aligned
so they sit properly on the agitation drive pins.
• Close the Reaction Chamber lid, pushing down
on both sides. Pull the handle towards you to
ensure that the lid is correctly latched.

Organised and Random baskets

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Setting the Fill Level

Depending on how Excelsior AS has been configured (see Customising Your Instrument on page 107), a Level
button may be displayed on the Reaction Chamber Available screen. Use this button to select the appropriate
fluid level to cover the specimen baskets that have been added to the Reaction Chamber.

Note
To prevent under-filling within the Reaction Chamber, select a fluid level that corresponds with the number of
baskets added.

If too many levels of baskets are shown, press Level until the correct number is displayed.

Using the Level button; two levels of baskets have been selected

Note
If the Level function has been disabled or you do not set a specific fill level, Excelsior AS assumes a Random basket
has been loaded and fills the Reaction Chamber to the highest level.

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Starting a Program
A program can be started when specimens and baskets are loaded and the fill level has been set (if applicable). The
program will either start immediately or after a delay in fixative or alcohol. The length of the delay will vary
according to the specified end time of the program.
Programs are started from the Reaction Chamber Available screen which is displayed when you open the lid to
load samples. If this screen is not displayed, press Process on the Main Screen.

Note
You can add more sample cassettes or levels of Organised baskets once a process has been started. See Adding
Specimens on page 64 for details.

For details of the default process and flush programs installed on Excelsior AS, see Appendix E - Program
Examples on page 182.

To start a program:
• Ensure that the selected program is correct.
• Check that the displayed End Time and Start Step are correct.
• If the program uses a delayed start, ensure that the Delay Settings and Delay Step are correct.
• Press IMMEDIATE START or DELAYED START to start the program.

Note
If you press the back button, rather than the start button, press Process on the Main Screen to re-display the
Reaction Chamber Available screen and start processing.

Pressing the back button will lose any changes made to the End Time, Start Step, Delay Step and Delay Settings.

Immediate Start Delayed Start

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• Details of the status of the program,

such as the current step and time
remaining until completion, are
displayed on the Monitoring screen
which updates as the program moves
through its defined steps.
For additional information, see
Monitoring a Program on page 62.
• If you are running an overnight
program with a delayed start, the
Reaction Chamber will fill with the
delay step reagent and then hold
until active processing starts to
complete at the specified end time. The Monitoring screen

Quality Control Checks

If the Quality Control screen appears automatically when you press the IMMEDIATE START or DELAYED
START button, this means a usage limit for a reagent, wax or filter has been reached.
The program will not start until all issues shown on the Quality Control screen have been resolved. For more
information on renewing reagents, wax and filters, refer to Quality Control, Filter and Reagent Renewal Limits
on page 78.

Instrument Faults
A program may fail to start if there are faults with the instrument. These will be listed on the Fault Status screen,
which is automatically displayed when faults exist and a program is started. The wrench (spanner) icon will also
appear at the bottom of the Main Screen.
For more information on how to respond when the Fault Status screen appears, refer to Using the Fault Status
Screen on page 158.

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Monitoring a Program
The progress of a running program can be
viewed on the Monitoring screen. It displays
a series of defined steps with the current
program status, step position and reagent all
indicated.
As the program progresses, the highlighted
position moves down through the defined
steps. Any steps that have been disabled are
shown greyed out on the list.
Fluid transfer between the reagent
containers and the Reaction Chamber is
indicated by an animated connecting pipe.

Following the progress of a program

The Monitoring screen shows the following information:

Item Description
Status Shows the status of the current processing operation:
Lid Check Please Wait: The instrument is checking that the lid is closed.
Valve Indexing: The instrument is checking the position of the valve.
First Fill – Please Wait: The instrument is filling with the first reagent.
Drawing in fluid: The Reaction Chamber is being filled with reagent.
Processing: The highlighted step is currently running.
Draining: The Reaction Chamber is draining.
Stopped: The process has been stopped using the Stop button.
Aborting process: The process has been stopped and then aborted using the
Abort button.
Waiting for wax: The wax has not reached the correct temperature.
Process complete: The program has completed.
Lid released The Reaction Chamber lid is released and can be opened.
Start Time The time (and date) that the program was started.
End Time The time (and date) that the program will end.
Immediate Start: Based on the total time and the start time.
Delayed Start: The preferred end time.
See Setting the Workflow Processing Options on page 109.
Time Left The time remaining before the program completes.

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Item Description
Time The time for each step in the selected program. If the start is delayed, the time in the delay
reagent will be adjusted to ensure that the program completes at the specified end time.
When a step is currently highlighted and running, the time value indicates the time left before
the step completes.
When a step has completed, the time displays as 0:00.
Delay/Step The usage temperature for the program or flush step. This can be different from the storage
Temp temperature.

Note
Reagents cannot be cooled.

Vac The vacuum conditions in the Reaction Chamber during each step.
Three settings can be indicated:
On: Specimens are held at atmospheric pressure.
Off: Specimens are held at approximately 650 mbar absolute (350 mbar below atmospheric
pressure).
Cycle: Specimens are held in a increasing/decreasing, 15 minute, pressure cycle that ranges
from approximately 650 mbar absolute (vacuum conditions) through to atmospheric
pressure.

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Adding Specimens
Additional tissue cassettes or Organised baskets can be added after a program has started.

Tissue should only be added during the fixative step.

If circumstances require tissue to be added after fixation, follow good laboratory practice.

Note
To minimise the escape of reagent vapours from the Reaction Chamber when it is open, always press the
Lid Release button before opening the lid. This will start the downdraft fan which draws reagent vapours away
from the Reaction Chamber.
It is not possible to open the lid if the Reaction Chamber is under vacuum; check the Pressure Gauge is in the
green range before attempting to open the lid.

To add additional specimens or baskets:

• Press Lid Release.

Wait for the downdraft fan to start
and for the vacuum to release (if the
step uses vacuum).
• Open the lid.
The Processing screen is displayed.
• Add cassettes or baskets, and then
close the lid.

Lid released and opened, the Processing screen is displayed

Note
If you forget to restart the program, the On Hold Alarm will sound after the specified elapsed time.

For more information about the alarms that can be set, see Using Audio and Remote Alarms on page 130.

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• If you do not add more baskets to the

Reaction Chamber, or you are using a
Random basket, press Restart or
Refill and Restart.
This will allow processing to continue
to the original fill level.
• If you add additional baskets (or
remove baskets) and the level function
is enabled, press Level.
The basket level shown on the screen
will then correspond with the number
of baskets in the chamber.

Lid closed, ready to restart processing

Note
If you have removed baskets and have reduced the level correspondingly, the level of the liquid in the chamber
will not change until the next fill.

• To restart a processing step, press Restart or Refill and Restart.

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Stopping a Process
If required, a program can be stopped. When processing has stopped, different buttons appear on the right of the
Monitoring screen allowing you to:
• Drain the Reaction Chamber.
• Restart the step (if the step was stopped when the status was 'Processing').
The chamber will not be refilled with the selected reagent before the step is restarted.
• Refill and restart from the selected step (if the step was stopped when the status was 'First Fill - Wait' or
'Drawing in fluid' or the chamber was drained).
The chamber will be refilled with the selected reagent before the step is restarted.
• Abort the entire program (for more information, see Aborting a Program on page 67).

Note
You cannot stop a program when the status is shown as 'Draining'. Only actively running programs can be
stopped. If a program that is in a delay step is stopped, the time remaining will continue to decrease, however the
program will not progress any further.

To stop a program:
• Press the Stop button.
The Status changes to 'Stopped' and the following buttons appear under the Quality Control and Options
buttons:
• Drain Next Level
• Drain All
• Restart or Refill Restart
• Abort

To drain the chamber:

• Press the Drain Next Level button to drain a single level or the Drain All button to empty the chamber.
The instrument checks the status of the lid and then drains fluid from the chamber. To stop the draining
process, press the Stop Drain button when it appears.

Note
To continue processing, refill the chamber and restart the step using the Refill Restart button.
The instrument checks the status of the lid, draws in fluid to the defined level, and then resumes processing if the
lid is closed.

To restart a processing step:

• Press the Restart button.
The instrument checks the status of the lid and then resumes processing if the lid is closed.

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Aborting a Program
If a program has been started in error, it can be stopped and then aborted.

To abort a program:

• From the Monitoring screen, press

Stop to stop the active program.
• Press Abort.
After checking the lid, the status is
shown as 'Aborting process'; the
program is aborted, the Reaction
Chamber is drained and the Main
Screen appears.

Aborting process

Completing a Program
When processing has completed, the Process
Complete screen is displayed.
You must then:
• Drain the Reaction Chamber and
remove the baskets.
• Wipe away excess wax from the
Reaction Chamber, lid and seal and
flush the Reaction Chamber.

The process is complete

Be careful, baskets may be hot when you remove them from the Reaction Chamber.

Avoid spilling residual reagent or wax onto the instrument's surface or onto the floor when
removing baskets from the Reaction Chamber.

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Draining the Reaction Chamber

The Reaction Chamber can be
drained one level at a time or drained
completely in one step.

The Draining Screen

To drain the chamber one level at a time:

• Press Drain Next Level.
Wait until draining stops.
• Press Lid Release.
• Open the lid and remove the first level
of baskets.
The red Process Complete screen appears.
• Close the lid.
• Drain the remaining levels one at a time,
removing baskets at each level, until the
chamber is empty.

To drain the chamber in one step:

• Press Drain All.
Wait until draining stops and the red Process
Complete screen appears. Process Complete
• Press Lid Release.
• Open the lid and remove the baskets.

Note
If the Level Key is enabled, press Level to update the display to show the number of baskets remaining in the
chamber.

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Cleaning the Reaction Chamber

Use clean, dry absorbent paper to wipe the Reaction Chamber after each processing run. This should be done
before the flush cycle is started.

Note
Flush reagents will clean more effectively if residual wax is removed from the chamber and baskets before a flush
is carried out.

To clean the Reaction Chamber:

The lid seal and top surface of the Reaction Chamber must be kept clear of wax for the
instrument to operate correctly.
The lid seal cannot be removed for cleaning. Do not try to remove it.

• Open the lid and use the plastic spatula provided to remove any solidified wax from the lid, top and sides
of the Reaction Chamber.
• If necessary, wipe the surfaces of the Reaction Chamber with absorbent paper.
• Use absorbent paper to gently wipe the four level sensors in the Reaction Chamber.

Cleaning recommendations
During cleaning, observe the following recommendations to avoid damaging the instrument:
• Do not use abrasive cleaners other than those provided with the instrument.
• Do not use metal tools to clean or scrape the Reaction Chamber.
• Do not use any chemicals other than those recommended in Appendix D - Approved Reagents on
page 181.
• Do not scrape around the edge of the Reaction Chamber base. If any debris falls into this gap, carefully use
forceps to remove it.

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Flushing the Reaction Chamber

The Drain Complete screen

When there are no more baskets in the Reaction

Chamber and the reagent has been drained, the Drain
Complete screen is displayed.
This screen prompts you to wipe the Reaction Chamber
and level sensors and then flush the Reaction Chamber
before starting the next process.
It is important to wipe the Reaction Chamber with
clean, dry absorbent paper after every flush and to check
for any contamination. Evidence of wax may indicate
that the flush reagents need to be changed.

Note
If you do not flush the chamber you will not be able
to start a new process run. Ensure that you flush the
chamber between processing runs.

The Drain Complete screen

To flush the chamber:

• To run a different flush program to the one

automatically selected, press on the name of the
selected flush and choose the one that you want
to run from the list.

Note
After wax has been used, the instrument will make
you run a standard or extended flush; it is not
possible to set up a shorter flush.

• Press START to start the selected flush program.

The progress of the flush program is displayed
on the Monitoring screen. Once the flush has
completed, the Flush Complete screen is
displayed.
• Press OK.
The instrument is now ready to process the next The Flush Complete screen
batch of specimens.

Note
An 'Extended Flush' should be run in the following situations:
• The first flush after the flush reagents have been renewed.
• If a xylene substitute reagent is used.
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Flushing the Instrument

A separate flush function is available that can be used to run flush cycles outside of routine processing, as required.

If the Process button is not displayed on the Main Screen, you must run a flush program
using the Flush button before you can start a new processing run.

To flush the instrument:

• From the Main Screen, press Flush.
• To run a different flush program to the one automatically selected, press on the name of the selected flush
and choose the one that you want to run.
• Press START to start the selected flush program.

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Advanced Processing
If you are running specimens through a specified program on a routine basis, there is no need to change any of the
program parameters.
If you require more flexibility, use the Reaction Chamber Available screen before processing your specimens.
From here you can select a different program, change the end time, starting step or delay settings.

Note
Any changes that you make to the parameters for a selected program apply only to the current processing run and
are not saved.

Selecting a Program
Excelsior AS can be configured to automatically select a default program on opening of the reaction chamber lid.
The program can be different depending on the time of day (see Setting the Workflow Processing Options on
page 109). Other programs can be selected, as required.

Note
If no default programs are defined (for example, within research laboratories), the Select a Program screen is
displayed when the lid is opened. This allows operators to choose the required program by pressing the appropriate
program button.

To change the currently selected program:

• On the Reaction Chamber Available screen,

press Selected program:

Changing the selected program

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A list of available programs is displayed on the

Select a Program screen:
The currently selected program is shown in
yellow.
The default overnight program is identified with
the 'night' icon.
• Select the program you want to run and then
press OK.
The selected program is displayed on the
Reaction Chamber Available screen.

The Select a Program screen

Changing Program Parameters

Once you have selected the required program and adjusted the fill level (if applicable), you can either start the
program or make changes to some of the available parameters before doing so.

Note
If you make any changes to the default parameters for a selected program, a warning symbol appears next to the
changed parameter. This is for information purposes only and the program will still run when it is started.

• To reset the parameters back to the default

values, press Restore Defaults.

Note
The Restore Defaults button only appears if changes
have been made.

The Level button will only appear if the Level Key

function has been enabled. For more details, see
Customising Your Instrument on page 107.

End Time has been changed - Restore Defaults button is enabled

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Adjusting the End Time

The end time for a program can be changed to a different time or day, as required. The start time will then adjust
so the program ends at the specified end time. The program can also be set to start immediately with no delay.

Note
When the end time for a daytime program is changed, the start will be delayed. Delay settings and delay step can
then be specified. If a program cannot complete at an end time in the current day, it will move forward to the
next day.

To adjust the program end time:

• On the Reaction Chamber Available screen,

press the program's End Time.

Changing the end time for the program

The Reaction Chamber Available - Set End

Time screen is displayed:
• Use the number pad to set the required end
time.
If the system clock is in 12-hour mode, press
am/pm, as required.
• To move the end time back or forward by 24
hours, press Previous Day or Next Day,
respectively.

Note
You should not normally need to move the time
forward if the working week is defined correctly
(see Setting the Workflow Processing Options on The Reaction Chamber Available - Set End Time screen
page 109 for more information). However, if the
selected day is a holiday, you may need to use the
Next Day button.

• Press OK to save the changes.

• Start the selected program by pressing DELAYED START or IMMEDIATE START.

Note
If you want the program to start immediately, select No Delay on the Reaction Chamber Available - Set End
Time screen. Remember that if you do this, the program may complete when the instrument is unattended.

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Changing the Start Step

If required, the starting step for the selected program can be changed. You may want to do this if you are
transferring specimens from another instrument.

To change the first step in the program:

• On the Reaction Chamber Available screen,

press the Start Step button until the required
step in the program is selected.
A warning symbol is displayed, indicating that
you have made a change to the default start step
for the selected program.
The reagents in use remain highlighted:

Reagents in use are highlighted

• To change the start step back to its original

setting, press Restore Defaults.
• Start the selected program by pressing
IMMEDIATE START. Changing the start step

Note
All step start programs are immediate start programs.

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Changing the Delay Settings

By default, the delay settings will hold specimens in the Reaction Chamber at ambient temperature with no
vacuum. These conditions can be changed, as required.

Note
The delay temperature can be set at 1-55°C and ambient.
The instrument will not cool reagents below ambient conditions.

To change the delay temperature:

• On the Reaction Chamber Available screen,

press the displayed Delay Settings temperature
setting:

Changing the delay temperature

The Reaction Chamber Available - Set Delay

Temperature screen is displayed:
• Use the number pad to set the required
temperature. Alternatively, press Amb to hold
the delay reagent at ambient temperature.
• Press OK to save the changes.
A warning symbol is displayed, indicating that
you have made a change to the default delay
temperature. To change the temperature back to
its original setting, press Restore Defaults.
• Start the selected program by pressing
DELAYED START.

The Reaction Chamber Available - Set Delay Temperature screen

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To change the delay vacuum setting:

• On the Reaction Chamber Available screen, press the

displayed vacuum setting (Vac) until the required setting is
selected.
• You can choose from:
Vac: Off: Specimens are held at atmospheric pressure.
Vac: On: Specimens are held at approximately 650
mbar absolute (350 mbar below atmospheric
pressure).
Vac: Cycle: Specimens are held in a increasing/decreasing,
15 minute, pressure cycle that ranges from
approximately 650 mbar absolute (vacuum
conditions) through to atmospheric pressure.
• A warning symbol is displayed if you change the setting. To
change the delay pressure back to its original setting, press
Restore Defaults.
Changing the delay vacuum setting

• Start the selected program by pressing DELAYED START.

Changing the Delay Step

The delay step specifies the reagent in which loaded specimens will be held before the program starts. This will
default to the first step. For programs containing a fixative step the delay step can be changed to occur as part of
the first alcohol step. This may be because the tissue specimens are pre-fixed or delicate.

To change the delay step:

• Press the appropriate button on the Reaction Chamber

Available screen to select the reagent for the delay step.
The selected delay step is shown and can be either the first
fixative step in the program or the first alcohol step.
A warning symbol is displayed if you change
the step.

Note
If the delay step is changed to the first alcohol step, the
temperature and vacuum settings used during the delay will be
the same as those used within the alcohol step.

• To change the delay step back to its original setting, press

Restore Defaults.
• Start the selected program by pressing DELAYED START.
The delay step - changed from the default

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Quality Control, Filter and Reagent Renewal Limits

When filters or reagents need to be changed, the Quality Control screen will appear when a processing run is
started. The screen allows you to do the following:
• See how many weeks of use each filter has had and whether it is due to be replaced.
• Reset the usage value for a filter after it has been replaced.
• See which reagents are due to be rotated.
• Acknowledge prompts to discard or rotate reagents.
• Postpone wax discard or reagent rotation.
A yellow alert triangle is also displayed at the bottom of the screen. Any Quality Control alerts must be
acknowledged or postponed to allow processing to start.

Note
You can check the status of the instrument's reagents and filters at any time by selecting the Quality Control
option from the Main Screen.

Filter and Reagent Usage Information

Usage information is displayed over icons representing the Downdraft, Fixative and Charcoal replaceable filters
and reagent bottles. The use limit count is displayed in weeks for the filters and number of times used for
reagents. These limits can be set on the Use Limits screen (see Setting Use Limits on page 42 for details).
For additional information about swapping filters, refer to Fitting the Filters on page 29 and Reagent, Wax and
Filter Checks on page 92.

Note
The recommended use limit for the filters is 13 weeks. This is set as the system default.

Examples:
The following symbols can be displayed over the filter icons:
The number indicates that the filter has been in use for seven weeks.
The colour green indicates that the filter is within the use limit period, defined on the
Use Limit screen.
The number indicates that the filter has been in use for 12 weeks.
The colour yellow indicates that the filter should be replaced within one week.

The number indicates that the filter has been in use for 13 weeks.
The colour red and the warning triangle indicate that the defined usage limit has been
reached.

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Wax Discard and Reagent Rotation Information

The limits for wax discard and concealed reagent
rotation are set on the Rotation Management screen
(see Triggers for Reagent Rotation on page 101 for
details). Rotation triggers can be based on the
following:
• A1 alcohol quality (recommended)
• Use limits
• Days of the week
Rotation information is displayed on the Quality
Control screen. The information is based on the
defined triggers and limits and informs which reagents
are due to be discarded or rotated and when the discard
or rotation will occur.
Use limits can be set on the Use Limits screen (see
Setting Use Limits on page 42 for details).
Quality Control – alcohol, xylene and wax rotation and discard
Note information
The limit is based on counts only for Fix1, Fix2,
F1, F2, and F3.

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Renewing Fixative Reagents

If a yellow warning triangle alert appears inside the fixative reagent bottles on the Main screen and Information
Bar, change the reagents before running the next process.

Dispose of the used fixatives in accordance with local procedures and regulations.

To change fixatives:

• Open the main doors of the

instrument.
The Quality Control screen appears.
• Take out the Fix1 and Fix2 bottles (if
used) from the Reagent Storage Area.
Replace the caps on the bottles and set
the bottles aside for disposal.
• Press the Fix1 image on the Quality
Control screen to select it.
The Fix1 bottle is outlined in black.
• Press Remove on the Quality Control
menu. Removing Fix1 – Quality Control Screen

The Fix1 bottle image changes to

empty with a warning triangle
displayed within it.

Renewing Fix1 – Quality Control Screen

• If you are using two fixative steps, press the Fix2 image on the Quality Control screen and press Remove
on the Quality Control menu.
The Fix 2 bottle image changes to empty with a warning triangle displayed within it.
• Clean the fixative reagent dip tubes. See Cleaning the Reagent Supply Bottle Dip Tubes on page 147.
• Put new 5 litre (or 1 US gallon) bottles of fixative in positions Fix1 and Fix2 (if used) inside the Reagent
Storage Area and fully insert the bottle dip tubes.

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Note:
The majority of under-fill problems on Excelsior AS can be eliminated by using 5 litre reagent bottles.

• Press the Fix1 image on the Quality Control screen and press New on the Quality Control menu.
The warning triangle inside the image of Fix1 disappears.
• If you are using a second fixative, press the Fix2 image on the Quality Control screen and press New on
the Quality Control menu.
The warning triangle inside the image of Fix2 disappears.
• Press OK to close the Quality Control screen.
• When you have finished replacing the fixative reagents, close the main doors.

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Renewing Flush Reagents

If a yellow warning triangle alert appears inside the flush reagent bottles on the Quality Control screen, change the
reagents before running the next flush cycle.

Dispose of the used flush reagents in accordance with local procedures and regulations.

To renew flush reagents:

• Open the main doors and remove the flush reagent bottles from the Reagent Storage Area.
• Remove F2 first followed by F1 and then F3. Replace the caps on the F1 and F2 bottles and set the bottles
aside for disposal.
• Press the F2 image on the Quality Control
screen to select it.
The bottle is outlined in black.
• Press Remove on the Quality Control menu.
The F2 bottle image changes to empty.

Note
If the reagent use limits have not been reached, a
warning triangle will appear on the bottle and the
Information Bar when Remove is pressed. The
warning triangle will already be present if the
reagent has reached its use limit.
Removing a reagent – Quality Control Screen

• Repeat for F1 and F3.

• Clean the reagent dip tubes and clean and refill the F3 water flush bottle.
For instructions, refer to Cleaning the Reagent Supply Bottle Dip Tubes on page 147 and Cleaning the
Flush 3 Water Bottle on page 148.
• Put the F3 bottle back into the instrument and place new five litre bottles of F1 and F2 flush reagent in
position, on top of the F3 bottle.
• Insert the reagent dip tubes in each bottle.

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• Select each flush reagent in turn on the Quality

Control screen and press New.
• Press OK to close the Quality Control screen.
• If all reagents have been replaced, close the main
doors.

Registering new reagents – Quality Control Screen

Renewing Dehydrants, Clearants and Infiltrants Using Rotation

The Quality Control screen is displayed automatically at the beginning of a process run if dehydrants, clearants or
infiltrants (wax) need to be renewed.

Alcohol Quality Warning

If alcohol quality in bottle A1 has reached the trigger
for rotation, a triangle is displayed above the Alcohol
Quality gauge on the Main Screen:

The Alcohol Quality gauge indicates rotation due

In-process Reagent Rotation

Excelsior AS uses an in-process system of reagent
rotation for managing the renewal of dehydrants,
clearants and infiltrants across twelve containers, using
one rotation procedure. This process operates in the
following way:
• The used reagent from the appropriate
containers (used for the first steps in these
processing groups) is discarded into the
exchange bottles or waste wax tray.
• The rest of the reagents are rotated (A2 becomes
A1, A3 becomes A2, and so on.)
• The last container in each group (A6, X3 and
W3) is left empty ready for fresh reagents to be
loaded.

Reagent rotation and wax discard

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To rotate a dehydrant:

• On the Quality Control screen, press Rotation

due next run to select the group of reagent
bottles which are due to rotate.
Select the reagent to be rotated
Notice that the bottles are highlighted in black.

Highlighted reagent bottles

• From the Quality Control menu, press

Acknowledge.

Acknowledging the reagent rotation request

‘Rotation due next run’ changes to 'Will rotate

next run':

Alcohol will rotate on the next run

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To rotate a clearant:

• Press Rotation due next run to select the group

of reagent bottles which are due to rotate.
Notice that the bottles are highlighted in black. Select the reagent to be rotated

Highlighted reagent bottles

• From the Quality Control menu, press

Acknowledge.

Acknowledging the reagent rotation request

‘Rotation due next run’ changes to 'Will rotate

next run':

Xylene will rotate on the next run

To discard wax:

• Press Discard due next run to select the wax

baths.
Notice that the baths are highlighted in black. Selecting the wax baths

Highlighted wax baths

• From the Quality Control menu, press

Acknowledge.
‘Discard due next run’ changes to 'Will discard Wax will discard on the next run
next run'.

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Postponing Reagent Rotation

Reagent rotation or wax replacement can be postponed. If this is done, you will be prompted to rotate the
reagents and discard wax when you start the next processing run.

Note
Access to the menu options that enable users to override reagent rotations and wax discards can be placed under
access control to prevent unauthorised use. For more information, refer to Access Code Protection on page 125.

To postpone reagent rotation:

• Press Rotation due next run to select the group

of reagent bottles which are due to rotate.
• From the Quality Control menu, press
Postpone Rotation.
• If you change your mind and want to rotate the
reagent, press Cancel Request.
Postponing reagent rotation

To postpone wax discard:

• Press Discard due next run to select the wax

baths.
• From the Quality Control menu, press
Postpone Discard.
• If you change your mind and want to discard the
wax, press Cancel Request.
Postponing wax discard

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Reagent Rotation Example

A typical example procedure where alcohol, xylene and wax are rotated at the same time, triggered by the quality
of alcohol in bottle A1 is described below. The example assumes a schedule of one process run per day.

Day 1

• The alcohol quality has reached its defined limit and a triangle is displayed above the Alcohol Quality
Gauge on the Main Screen.
• The Quality Control screen is displayed automatically when the next processing run is initiated.
• The alcohol and xylene buttons on the Quality Control screen both indicate ‘Rotation due next run’.
• The wax button indicates ‘Discard due next run’.

• Press each label in turn on the display to select the bottles or wax baths and press Acknowledge on the
Quality Control menu.
• Open the instrument's doors and ensure that the exchange bottles, Ex1, Ex2 are empty and that an empty
consumable waste wax tray (WW) is fitted above the wax baths, W1 and W2.
• Close the doors.
• Start processing to continue with the rotation.
Excelsior AS uses reagent A1 as normal and discards it into EX1 at the end of the step. The subsequent
alcohol bottles are used in their usual order but all are moved forward by one position when the alcohol is
returned. For example, the content of A2 becomes the new content of A1.
The xylene and wax is rotated in a similar way; X1 is discarded into EX2, W1 is discarded into WW.

Day 2

• When the processing run has

completed, the display indicates A6,
X3, and W3 are empty; Ex1, Ex2
and WW are full.

Empty and full positions prior to the completion of rotation

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Replace Wax:
• Open the main doors, and carefully take out the
consumable waste wax tray.
The Quality Control screen appears.
• Take a new consumable waste wax tray and slide it into
position above the wax baths. Will not discard button for wax

• On the Quality Control screen, press the waste wax tray

(WW) and then press Remove.
• Add wax pellets to the empty wax bath W3.
• Press the Will not discard next run button. Confirm wax is loaded button
The baths become highlighted.
• Press Confirm Wax is loaded.
• While the wax is heating, replace the alcohol and xylene.

Replacing the Alcohol and Xylene

• Take out containers Ex1 (waste alcohol) and Ex2 (waste xylene) and dispose of the contents, following
local regulations.
• Place new 5 litre (or 1 US gallon) bottles of 100% alcohol and xylene into positions Ex1 and Ex2.

Note:
The majority of under-fill problems on Excelsior AS can be eliminated by using 5 litre reagent bottles.

• On the Quality Control screen, select the Ex1 Bottle and press New.
• Select the Ex2 Bottle on the display and press New.

Note
Before continuing, ensure that the wax level is correct; see Loading Wax on page 45 for details.
Running your next process completes the reagent rotation by transferring the fresh reagents to their new positions.

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Chapter 4 - Advanced Operation
This chapter describes how to take control of the settings and programs which are used by Excelsior AS to process
specimens efficiently and safely. The following subjects are covered:
• Managing and assuring the quality of the reagents and waxes that are used for specimen processing.
• Setting the triggers that prompt operators to change the reagents in order to maintain the quality of
specimen processing.
• Controlling how and when specimens are processed.
• Creating new programs and flushes to meet specific processing requirements.
• Adding access code protection to certain system functions.
• Defining the alarms and alerts that are triggered when particular system events or instrument
malfunctions occur.
• Saving instrument and program settings to removable media.
• Sending specific system event data from the instrument via a LIMS interface.
• Changing the system time, date and display language.

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Reagent Management
Excelsior AS ensures that each reagent is used in the most cost-effective way. When required, you will be
prompted to change fixative and flush reagents and to initiate automated discard and reagent rotation processes
from the concealed bottles. Unless the instrument is being moved or decommissioned, there will not be any need
to remove all of the reagents from the instrument.

Configuring and Loading Reagents

Reagents are configured and loaded when the instrument is set up. For details, refer to Chapter 2 - Installation
and Setup, from page 25.
To load in different dehydrants, clearants and infiltrants, you must unload the current set of reagents using the
Unload Reagents option (see Unloading Reagents on page 151) and then load in the new set of reagents using the
Load Reagents option (see Loading Reagents on page 44).

Reagent and Filter Quality Control

Excelsior AS continually monitors reagents and filters against quality and usage parameters to ensure that
processing is safe, reliable and reproducible. These parameters are set manually and determine when quality
control alerts to change reagents or filters are issued.
All of the options required to check and monitor reagents and filters are in the Quality Control menu. To display
the menu, from the Main Screen select Quality Control.
In addition to viewing the status of all reagents and filters you can:
• Acknowledge, request or postpone rotation prompts.
• Draw a particular reagent into the Reaction Chamber for inspection, sampling, topping-up and, if
necessary, discarding.
• View detailed information about reagents.
• Run and view reports which provide summary and detailed information on reagent usage.

Reagent, Wax and Filter Checks

The status of reagents, wax and filters can be viewed from the Quality Control screen. Here you will see a
combination of colour-coded use counts, warning triangles and rotation status labels indicating which filters or
reagents need to be changed or are due to be rotated.
For additional information about the filters, refer to Fitting the Filters on page 29 and Filter and Reagent Usage
Information on page 78.
The Detailed Information option provides more information on a particular reagent, including loading dates for
concealed bottles and wax, reagent usage count and date of the last reagent rotation. For more information, refer
to Displaying Detailed Reagent Information on page 94.
Where necessary, any concealed reagent or wax can be drawn into the Reaction Chamber for visual inspection or
sampling outside of processing. Refer to Inspecting reagents and waxes on page 95 for more information.

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Note
Information for a specific wax bath or concealed reagent bottle is only available using the
Detailed Information option.

To check the status of the filters, reagents and wax:

• From the Main Screen, press Quality

Control.
The Quality Control screen shows the
status of the filters, fixatives and flush
reagents.
Buttons showing the rotation or
discard status are displayed in the
Quality Control menu.
• Check the status of reagents, wax and
filters and rotate, discard, or change, as
necessary.
• Press OK to return to the Main
Screen.
The Quality Control screen

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Displaying Detailed Reagent Information

The Detailed Information screen shows information about the usage of the reagent bottles and wax baths.

To view detailed reagent information:

• Select Quality Control > Detailed Information.
The Quality Control - Detailed Information screen appears.

Detailed Reagent Information Fields Explained

The following information is displayed on the Quality Control - Detailed Information screen:

Columns Description
The order in which the reagent and wax bottles
Order Used
are used.
The date the reagent was loaded into the
instrument using the Load Reagents option (see
Loaded Used Loading Reagents on page 43) and the number
of times the reagent has been used at its current
position.
The date that the reagent was last rotated and
Rotated Used the number of times it has been used since the
rotation.

Rows Description
Ex1 Exchange bottle – containing discarded reagent
A1, A2, A3,
Alcohol bottle positions
A4, A5, A6
Ex1 Exchange bottle – containing new reagent
Ex2 Exchange bottle – containing discarded reagent
X1, X2, X3 Xylene bottle positions The Detailed Information screen
with fixative adjustment
Ex2 Exchange bottle – containing new reagent
WW Waste wax tray
W1, W2, W3 Wax baths
A1 Quality Percentage used

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Changing the Fixative Use Count

If you are temporarily using different types of fixative, it is possible to reinstall a fixative count rather than
changing it.
• Select the fixative bottle that you want to reinstall.
The bottle is highlighted and an Adjust Count button appears below the A1 Quality information.
• Press the Adjust Count button, enter the required use count using the keypad and then press OK.
A new use count appears on the fixative bottle.
• Press to return to the Quality Control menu and Quality Control screen.
• Press OK to return to the Main Screen.

Inspecting reagents and waxes

In addition to viewing detailed usage information on reagents, you can draw a reagent into the Reaction Chamber
for visual inspection.

Reagents must be inspected in an empty chamber, without baskets.

Once in the Reaction Chamber you can:

• Lift the Reaction Chamber lid and inspect or sample the reagent.
• Check that the volume / fluid level is correct.
When the instrument is loaded from five litre bottles, the chamber fluid level reaches the top of the third
level sensor.
If using 1 gallon (US) bottles, the chamber fluid level reaches mid-way between the second and third level
sensors.
• Add more reagent if the level is too low.

Wax must be present in the Reaction Chamber for a minimum of 10 minutes before returning
to the wax bath.
If wax is drawn into the Reaction Chamber, run a flush before you inspect another reagent or
initiate a processing run.

After inspection, the reagent can either be returned to the reagent bottle or wax bath or discarded. If you discard a
reagent, you will be prompted to load a new reagent into that position.

When you inspect reagents, there is a risk that processing reagents could become
contaminated. Always inspect reagents in an order based upon reagent miscibility and flush
between reagent checks.
After inspecting xylene or equivalent reagents, run a flush before further processing. Refer to
Flushing the Instrument on page 71 for details.

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Inspecting a Reagent
You can inspect any of the instrument's reagents, including the dehydrants (A1–A6) and clearants (X1–X3) in the
concealed bottles at the back of the instrument and the wax in the three wax baths (W1–W3).

Note
You cannot start a processing run when you are inspecting a reagent. After inspection, ensure that you either
return the reagent to its bottle or wax bath or discard it and load a new reagent after inspection.
The Process and Flush buttons are not displayed when inspecting a reagent.

To inspect a reagent:

• Select Quality Control > Inspect

Reagents.
• Select the reagent that you want to
inspect by pressing the bottle or wax
bath on the touch screen.
The reagent bottle or wax container
will become highlighted.
• On the Quality Control - Inspect
Reagents menu, press Inspect
Reagent.

Highlighted reagent at position A1, selected for inspection

The selected reagent is transferred to

the Reaction Chamber:
• Lift the chamber lid and inspect or
sample the reagent, as required.

Reagent transfer from A1 to the Reaction Chamber

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• Check that the fluid level is correct.

If not, more reagent can be added to
ensure that the level in the Reaction
Chamber is correct.
• After checking, choose from one of the
options displayed on the Quality
Control - Inspect Reagents screen.
• Press Return Reagent to keep the
reagent and drain it from Reaction
Chamber back into the same bottle or
wax bath. You can then inspect
another reagent.
- or -
Reagent inspection options
Discard the reagent or wax using the
Discard option.

Note
If you are inspecting different reagent types, inspect them in a logical sequence and ensure that you flush the
Reaction Chamber as necessary to prevent reagent contamination.

Discarding a Reagent after Inspection

Reagents or wax can be discarded after inspection, if required.

To discard a reagent:
• Inspect the reagent in the reaction chamber.
• Press Discard.
• Ensure that you have placed an empty bottle in position Ex1 or Ex2.
• Press Confirm Loaded to drain the reagent from the reaction chamber into the empty exchange bottle.
• Discard the used reagent in accordance with local procedures and regulations.

To discard wax:
• Inspect the wax in the reaction chamber.

Note
Wax must be present in the Reaction Chamber for a minimum of 10 minutes before returning to the wax bath.

• Press Discard.
• Ensure that an empty consumable wax waste tray is installed in the instrument.
• Press Confirm Loaded to drain the wax from the reaction chamber into the wax waste tray.
• Discard the waste wax in accordance with local procedures and regulations.
• Fit a new consumable wax waste tray.

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Loading a Reagent or Wax After a Discard

Reagents or wax can be loaded after a discard, if required.

To load a reagent:
• Highlight the bottle to be loaded.
• Press Load Reagent.
• Ensure that the new reagent is loaded in position Ex1 or Ex2.
• Press Confirm Loaded to draw the reagent into the reaction chamber and then into the highlighted
concealed bottle.

Note
Do not leave the Inspect Reagents screen during reagent transfer.

To load wax:
• Load wax pellets into the required wax bath.
• Highlight the wax bath that has been loaded.
• Press Waxbath Heater ON to start heating.

Rotating a reagent or wax after a discard

Reagents or wax can be rotated manually after a discard, if required.

Note
This option is only available if consecutive bottles are shown as empty while performing an inspection.

To rotate a reagent:
• Inspect the reagent in the reaction chamber.
• Press Rotate Reagent to drain the reagent from the reaction chamber into the next concealed reagent
bottle.
• Inspect the next reagent and follow the same sequence to manually rotate all reagents.

To rotate a wax:
• Inspect the wax in the reaction chamber.
• Press Rotate Reagent to drain the wax from the reaction chamber to the next wax bath.
• Inspect the next wax bath and follow the same sequence to manually rotate all waxes.

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Running and Viewing Reports

Various reports are available to help you assess instrument performance and reagent usage.
Reports comprise a range of different event logs that are presented together in order to provide information on
specific system events, for example, temperature readings. Reports can be generated according to the time at
which events occurred and the event log types.
You can generate a report by selecting a time period and then choosing a report type. Reports can be viewed on
screen or saved onto a USB memory stick for viewing on a computer.

Note
Some reports can be large and may be truncated before they are displayed on screen. To see the full report, save the
report to USB and view it on a computer.

The following time periods can be specified:

• Last Run: Retrieves the event logs for a chosen report that were generated from the
time the last process run was started through to the present time.
• Last 24 Hours: Retrieves all of the event logs for the chosen report that were generated over
the previous 24 hours and up to the present time.
• Last 7 Days: Retrieves all of the event logs for the chosen report that were generated over
the previous seven days and up to the present time.
• All Data Retrieves all of the event logs for a chosen report that were generated from
the last instrument reset up to the present time.

The following reports are available to view:

• Program Printouts:* A list of all programs and their parameters that are currently installed on
the instrument.
• Full Event Log: A log of every event generated from the last instrument reset to the present
time.

Note
This report will be very large.

• Concise Event Log: A reduced version of the full event log containing only process log events.

• Quality Control Status:* A single page report showing information about the usage of the reagent
bottles and wax baths.
• Quality Control History: Rotation and reagent management event logs, for example, specific gravity
readings.
• Temperature Status:* This captures immediate temperature data for the wax and reaction
chamber and current fluid levels.
• Temperature History: Shows a range of temperature readings for process and flush cycles.
• Instrument Setup:* Shows the complete set of configuration settings, in text form, that are
currently being used on the instrument.
* These reports are independent of the specified time period.

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To view reports:

• Select Quality Control > Reports to display

the Quality Control - Reports screen.
• Choose the time period for the report.
• To display a single report on the screen, press
View next to the report that you require.
The report is displayed on the screen.
• Use your fingertip on the touch screen to scroll
down through the report.
• Press OK to exit.

Saving reports:

Note
Before saving reports, ensure that a USB memory
stick is in place in the instrument.
Quality Control – Reports screen

• Select an individual report or multiple reports.

After selection, reports are highlighted in
yellow.
• Press OK to save and exit from the screen.
The light on the USB memory stick flashes
while saving is in progress.
• Press OK to return to the Main Screen.

Note
OK will appear shaded if a USB memory stick is
not inserted.

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Reagent Rotation
Excelsior AS uses an in-process system for maintaining dehydrants, clearants and infiltrants.
Manually-defined triggers are used to inform an operator, via the Quality Control screen, that a defined reagent
has reached its usage limit and should be rotated or discarded. For more information, see Triggers for Reagent
Rotation below.
When a reagent is rotated, Excelsior AS completes the process in the following way:
• The used reagent is discarded from the appropriate containers (used for the first steps in these
processing groups).
• The rest of the reagents are rotated by moving each reagent up by one position.

Note
Be careful to ensure that discarded A1 waste is not accidently reloaded back into the instrument.

• On the next processing run, fresh reagents are used in the last step for the process groups that have been
rotated.
Rotation is automatic and simply requires the operator to acknowledge system prompts, place exchange bottles
into the appropriate positions and to load new reagents when prompted to do so. The usage of fixatives, flush
reagents and filters is also tracked and system alerts are displayed when these need to be changed.
The rotation process and renewal of other reagents and filters occurs as part of routine processing but can be
requested at any time. The process is described in Quality Control, Filter and Reagent Renewal Limits on
page 78.

Triggers for Reagent Rotation

Triggers for reagent rotation can be based on days of the week, usage counts or alcohol quality:
• Days of the week: Prompts to rotate reagents or discard wax are issued on the chosen day(s). Multiple
days can be highlighted.
• Usage counts: Prompts are issued to rotate reagents or discard wax when the defined usage limit for
a reagent or wax is reached.
• Alcohol quality: The specific gravity of alcohol in reagent bottle A1 is monitored. When this falls
below a set level and into the red zone on the Alcohol Quality gauge, the Quality
Control screen is displayed before processing starts. You are then prompted to
acknowledge or postpone reagent rotation / wax discard.

Setting Triggers for Reagent Rotation

The triggers for reagent rotation are set from the Rotation Management screen. When setting triggers based on
alcohol quality, take note of the red zone on the Alcohol Quality gauge on the Main Screen, this will move up and
down as you adjust the quality threshold.

Note
For optimum reagent utilisation and processing, it is recommended that concealed reagent and wax rotations are
based on A1 alcohol quality.

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To set rotation triggers:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Rotation

Management.
The Instrument Setup - Rotation Management
screen is displayed.
The current rotation triggers are highlighted in
yellow. The default trigger is A1 Quality.

Note
It is only possible to have one type of rotation trigger
set for each reagent group. The selected trigger will
automatically override any triggers that were set
previously.

The Instrument Setup - Rotation Management screen

• To base rotation on days of the week, press the

button(s) corresponding to the day(s) on which
you want to rotate the reagents or wax.
The chosen day(s) will be highlighted in yellow.
• Press OK to save.

Rotating based on day of the week (wax on Friday)

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• To base rotation on usage counts, press Use

Limit and set the required limit using the
number pad. To turn the limit off, enter
zero (0).
• Press OK when you have set the required limit.
The Use Limit button will indicate the new limit
in yellow, or will read ‘Off’ if zero has been
entered.

Note
If a use limit of zero is entered, a Quality Control
rotation trigger will not have been set for that
particular group.

Rotation based on use limits

• To base reagent rotation on alcohol quality, press

A1 Quality for each of the reagent groups.
A1 Quality button (for Xylene)

• Use the up and down arrow buttons to adjust

the A1 Quality Threshold for earlier or later
reagent rotations. A1 Quality Threshold up and down buttons
The threshold is represented by the red zone on
the Alcohol Quality gauge (left side of screen).
Each arrow button press expands or contracts
the zone by approximately 1.25% from the
black line (starting at 45%).
• Press OK to save.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
Alcohol Quality Gauge
repeatedly.

Note
The factory default value for the A1 Quality Threshold is 45%. Be careful if you adjust this value as, over a
period of time, any increases or decreases can result in either higher or lower than optimal alcohol concentrations.

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Requesting Reagent Rotation

Rotation schedules are automatically controlled by alcohol quality, use counts or days of the week, however it is
also possible to add in additional manual rotations as required.

Note
The Quality Control screen is displayed automatically at the beginning of a process run if any of the reagents or
filters are due for renewal.

To request rotation of a reagent:

• From the Main Screen, press Quality

Control.
• On the Quality Control screen, press
Will not rotate next run to select a group
of reagent bottles.
Notice that the bottles are highlighted in
black.
• From the Quality Control menu, press
Request Rotation.

Requesting reagent rotation for X1–X3

The label on the reagent’s rotation button

changes to 'Requested to rotate':
Reagents will rotate next run

• To cancel and not rotate the reagents on the

next run, highlight Requested to rotate
and press Cancel Request.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK.

Cancelling the request

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To request wax discard:

• From the Main Screen, select Quality

Control.
• On the Quality Control screen, press Will
not discard next run to select the wax
baths.
Notice that the wax baths are highlighted in
black.
• From the Quality Control menu, press
Request Discard.

Requesting a wax discard

The label on the wax rotation button

changes to 'Requested to discard'.
• To cancel and not discard wax on the next Wax will discard next run
run, highlight Requested to discard and
press Cancel Request.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK.

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Concept Demonstration
The concept demonstration shows you how reagents are transferred during processing. The demonstration
comprises four sections and runs in the following sequence:
1. Loading reagents
2. Processing
3. Discarding reagents
4. Replenishing reagents

Concept Demonstration

Notes:
• The demonstration is not available when the instrument is running a process, flush or inspect.
• The screen lock function will not operate during a demonstration run.
• Any alarms that are generated while the demonstration is running will not be displayed on the screen,
however audible alarms will sound, providing that they have been configured to do so, see Audio and
Remote Alarms on page 130.
• The demonstration will only run in sequence, starting with Load and ending with Replenish.

To run the demonstration:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Concept Demo.
The Concept Demo screen appears and the DEMO icon appears on the Information Bar.
• Press Load.
The demonstration starts. The Load section and the remaining sections in the sequence are greyed out.
• To exit and return to the Options - Instrument Setup screen, press the button.
• To pause or restart the demonstration, press the Pause/Restart button.
• Once the load demonstration has completed, the process, discard and replenish demonstrations can be run
in order.

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Customisation and Workflow

Excelsior AS has default settings that will enable your laboratory to process specimens through typical daily
processing cycles. In addition, it is possible to change some of the available settings to utilise reagents more
efficiently, to change the days of the week that the instrument is available, or to change the programs which are
offered by default at various times of the day. These changes are made using the Customisation option which is
accessed from the Instrument Setup menu.

Customising Your Instrument

You can customise Excelsior AS, adding your own text to appear at the bottom of the screen, next to the Thermo
Scientific logo. You can also specify how the Reaction Chamber is filled, how long a program can be left on hold
before an alarm sounds and define when the instrument goes into power-save (dimmed) mode.

To customise your instrument:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup >

Customisation.
The Instrument Setup - Customisation screen
appears.
• To record information about the instrument or
your location, press the Instrument ID field or
the Customer Text field.
The on-screen keyboard appears.
• Enter the text that you want to display and press
OK.
• Select the required filling options, alarm setting
and shift pattern. See below for details.
• Press OK to save the settings.
Any changes to the Instrument ID and
Customer Text will now be shown in the
The Instrument Setup - Customisation screen
information bar at the bottom of the screen.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.

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Customisation Options Explained

The following table summarises the Excelsior AS customisation options:

Option Description
Instrument ID A text field which can be used to record information about the instrument. A
maximum of 30 characters can be entered. The text is displayed at the bottom of the
Main Screen, next to the Thermo Scientific logo. The text is also added to reports to
help with identification, see File Operations on page 132 for more information.
Customer Text A text field which can be used to record customer-specific information. A maximum of
30 characters can be entered. The text is displayed at the bottom of the Main Screen,
next to the Thermo Scientific logo and under the Instrument ID text.
Level Key When selected (yellow text), a Level button is displayed on the Reaction Chamber
Available screen allowing the Reaction Chamber to be filled to a specific level when
starting a process. See Setting the Fill Level on page 59 for more information.
If this option is not selected, the Reaction Chamber will always be filled to the
Random basket level and a Level button is not displayed on the Reaction Chamber
Available screen.
Restart Level
Note
This option is only available if the Level Key is selected.

When selected (yellow text), Excelsior AS assumes that specimens have been added
whenever the lid is opened during processing and fills the Reaction Chamber to the
Random basket level on restart.
When not selected, the Reaction Chamber is filled to the specified level on restart.
Workflow Setup Opens the Customisation - Workflow Setup screen. See Setting the Workflow
Processing Options on page 109 for details.
On Hold Alarm This setting specifies how long a program can be left on hold before an alarm sounds.
Press the button to set the required time (1–30 minutes or Off).
Shift Start This setting defines the start of the working day; this is when the instrument comes out
of power-save (dimmed) mode. Press the button to specify the shift start time.
Shift End This setting defines the end of the working day; this is when the instrument goes into
power-save (dimmed) mode. Press the button to specify the shift end time.

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Setting the Workflow Processing Options

Excelsior AS can be setup to operate in one of three different processing modes:
Single Program: This option allows you to define a single default program which will be available to
operators at all times of the day.
Daytime Overnight: If specimens are processed overnight and also during the day, this option allows you to
specify the programs that will be available at specific times of the day.
No Default: If there are different groups of operators using the instrument, the default program
option can be removed to allow operators to select the program that they want to use
when the Reaction Chamber lid is opened.

Note
If required, operators can still choose a different program from the displayed default when processing specimens.

To set workflow processing options:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Customisation.

• From the Instrument Setup - Customisation screen, press
Workflow Setup.
The Customisation - Workflow Setup screen appears:
• Select the required options. Additional fields may appear
depending on the options that you choose (see Workflow Setup
Options Explained on page 110).
If you select Single Program, the instrument will assume you
wish to process specimens overnight and offer the default
overnight program.
If you select Daytime Overnight you will be required to specify
the program offered during the day (up until the time that you
select in Available Until) and the overnight program. The Customisation - Workflow Setup screen

• To change any one of the default programs, press the

appropriate program button and choose the required program
from the Select a Program screen.
• Press OK to save the selected workflow options.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK repeatedly.

Daytime Overnight processing option selected

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Workflow Setup Options Explained

The options and settings on the Customisation - Workflow Setup screen are as follows:

Option Description

Working Week Sets the days of the week that the instrument will be in use. Selected days are
shown in yellow.
Start Process Options Sets the process type which is selected when you initiate a processing run.
You can choose from:
Single Program: One program (the default program) is offered by
default at all times of the day. Choose this option if
you only run one type of process.
Daytime Overnight: Different programs can be set for daytime and
overnight processing. Choose this option if you
routinely process specimens during the day and
overnight.
No Default: No program is offered by default and the operator
must manually select the required program. Choose
this option if you are using Excelsior AS to run a
variety of process types.

Default Program If Single Program is selected, the program that is offered at all times of the
day is set here. Press the button to choose the required default program from
the Select a Program screen.

Daytime Program If Daytime Overnight is selected, the program that is offered for daytime
processing is set here. Press the button to choose the required daytime
program from the Select a Program screen.

Overnight Program If Daytime Overnight is selected, the program that is offered for overnight
processing is set here. Press the button to choose the required overnight
program from the Select a Program screen.

Preferred End Time Sets the end time for the chosen delayed start program (does not apply to an
immediate start program).

Available Until The latest time Excelsior AS will offer the daytime program. After this time,
the overnight program will be offered. Press the button to set the time.

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Programs and Flushes

Excelsior AS uses programs and flushes to process specimens or flush the system prior to another processing run.
Programs and flushes are built up from a series of user-defined steps or instructions. Each individual step
comprises a number of parameters which can be set individually or applied to a group of steps using the same
reagent type. Steps can also be disabled if, for example, you want to use only one fixative step or are using xylene-
free processing.
The following step parameters can be changed:
• The temperature of the reagent used in a particular step.
• The time for the processing step.
• The vacuum conditions under which the processing step takes place.
• The time that specimens are allowed to drain between processing steps.

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Viewing Program or Flush Details

You can view details of all of the programs and flushes that have been defined on your instrument. The individual
program or flush steps can be changed, as required. See Editing a Program or Flush on page 119 for more
information on changing programs and flushes.

To view program details:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program to display the Select a Program screen.
• Choose the program that you want to view.

Selecting a program

The Options - Edit Program screen displays

details of the fixative and dehydrant steps in the
selected program.

Note
To display steps for clearants and infiltrants, press
the button.

Fixative and dehydrant step details

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• To return to the Select a Program screen,

press .
• To return to the Main Screen from the Select a
Program screen, press and then OK.

Clearant and infiltrant step details

To view flush details:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Press Flushes and choose the required flush
program from the screen:

Selecting a flush

The Options - Edit Flush screen displays details

of the selected flush:
• Press to return to the Select a Flush screen.
• To return to the Main Screen from the Select a
Flush screen, press and then OK.

Flush details

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Program and Flush Parameter Fields Explained

Each step in a program or flush comprises a set of parameters which can be adjusted independently. These
parameters are explained in the following table:

Parameter Description
Step Number Shows the step number in the program or flush. Each program can have up
to 14 steps. Flushes have three steps.
Selection box Press this box to include or exclude a fixative step or dehydrant / infiltrant / clearant
group from the program or flush. If a step is disabled, it is shown as shaded on the
Monitoring screen during a program or flush run.

Note
The selection box is not available for mandatory flush steps.

Reagent Name / Shows the name of the reagent or reagent group.

Reagent Group Name
For more information on reagent names and storage temperatures, see Defining
Reagent Names on page 39 and Setting Reagent Storage Temperatures on page 40.

Temperature Shows the usage temperature for the program or flush step. This can be different from
the storage temperature.
Press the button to specify the required step temperature.

Note
Reagents cannot be cooled.

Time Shows the time (hours and minutes) for each processing step - the maximum is 99:59.
Press the button to specify the required step time.

Note
The time to transfer reagents is included in this time. Steps should be at least three
minutes long. If a shorter step is entered, and fluid transfers take longer than three
minutes, then the program will overrun its expected end time.

The first wax step in any program should be at least 10 minutes long in order to
minimise wax carry-over on the Reaction Chamber walls, and to allow the level
sensors to warm up to the wax temperature.

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Parameter Description
Vacuum Controls the vacuum conditions in the Reaction Chamber during each step.
Three settings are available, press the button to select the required setting:
On: Specimens are held at atmospheric pressure.
Off: Specimens are held at approximately 650 mbar absolute (350 mbar below
atmospheric pressure).
Cycle: Specimens are held in a increasing/decreasing, 15 minute, pressure cycle
that ranges from approximately 650 mbar absolute (vacuum conditions)
through to atmospheric pressure.
Drain Time Shows the time (seconds) allowed for the specimens to drain before moving to the
next processing step. Press the button to specify the required drain time (minimum of
30 seconds).

Immediate Start When selected, the program will default to an immediate start.

Delayed Start When selected, the program will default to a delayed start.

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Creating a New Program or Flush

New programs and flushes can be defined as required. To make this easier, default step details are loaded when
you select an empty program or flush 'slot'. These can then be amended to create the program or flush that you
require.

Note
Try to make the name of any program or flush that you create as descriptive as possible, but limit the description
to 17 characters. Up to eight programs and eight flushes can be defined.

To create a new program:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Press an empty button on the Select a Program
screen. Programs with a name and time already
have defined program steps:

Empty buttons: 3 to 7

The Options - Edit Program screen is displayed:

Adjust the displayed values as required

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• Enter a name for the new program.

To do this, press the empty program name
button and use the on-screen keyboard to enter
the name. Press to define the program name

Note
A maximum of 17 characters can be used for
program and flush names.

• Press OK to confirm the name.

Using the on-screen keyboard

• The steps are disabled by default; to enable one

or more of these, press the selection box to the
right of the step number.
Steps 1 and 2 enabled (tick in box)
A tick (check mark) will appear in the box and
the corresponding reagent container or
containers will become highlighted.
• Define the program step details, adding in the
individual step and drain times.

Note
The default step time is 10 minutes, and the default
drain time is 30 seconds.

The total time is shown to the right of the

program name.
• Press OK to save the new program.
• Press to return to the Options screen and
then OK to return to the Main Screen.
For more information on changing parameters,
see Changing Program or Flush Step Parameters
on page 120.

Note
If program or flush step parameters are edited, the
Step / Group is automatically enabled.

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To create a new flush:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Press Flushes.
• Press an 'empty' button on the Select a Flush
screen. Flushes with a name and time already
have defined flush steps.
The Options - Edit Flush screen is displayed:
• Enter a name for the new flush. To do this press
the name button and use the on-screen keyboard
to enter the name.
• Press OK to confirm the name.
• Define the flush step details. See Changing
Program or Flush Step Parameters on page 120
for details.
The total time is shown to the right of the flush
name.
• Press OK to save the new flush. Creating a new flush
• Press to return to the Options screen and
then OK to return to the Main Screen.

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Editing a Program or Flush

You can make changes to an existing program or flush so that the steps or conditions match your requirements.

Note
It is recommended that you do not change the default programs and flushes that are provided with Excelsior AS.
Instead, create a new program or flush and change that, as required. See Creating a New Program or Flush on
page 116 for details.
Flush 1 and Flush 2 cannot be omitted from default flush programs.

To edit a program:
• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit Program.
• Select the program that you want to change.
• On the Options - Edit Program screen, make the required changes to the program or step details.
See below for details.
• Press OK to save the changes.

To edit a flush:
• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit Program.
• Press Flushes and select the flush that you want to change.
• On the Options - Edit Flush screen, make the required changes to the flush or step details.
See below for details.
• Press OK to save the changes.

Note
If you have made any changes to a program or flush and press on the Options - Edit Program screen or
Options - Edit Flush screen, you will be asked to confirm that you want to discard unsaved changes. To confirm,
press OK.
If you want to save the changes that you have made or continue working on a program or flush, press to
return to Options - Edit Program screen or Options - Edit Flush screen. To save any changes press OK.

Changing the Program or Flush Name

You can change the name of a program or flush, as required. Try to make names as descriptive as possible, but
limit the description to 17 characters.

To change the name of the program or flush:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit Program.
• Select the program or flush that you want to change.
The Options – Edit Program for the chosen program or flush appears.
• Press the existing name button to display the on-screen keyboard.
• Enter the new name and press OK.

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Changing Program or Flush Step Parameters

Each step in a program or flush comprises several parameters, each of which can be changed. If you change a
parameter for a reagent within a group, it is also possible to copy that change to the other reagents in the group.

Usage Temperature
You can set the usage temperature on an individual basis; 1-55°C for each reagent, 45-65° for wax and a
maximum of 65° for Flush 1.
The temperature cannot be set lower than the reagent storage temperature. Storage temperatures are set using the
Reagent Storage Temperature option. See Configuring Reagents on page 39 for details.
The current usage temperatures for each To use the reagent at ambient temperature
reagent within a program group are displayed (for use with fixatives, dehydrants and clearants).
on the Edit Program or Edit Flush screen
To use the reagent at storage temperature
under the thermometer icon:
(for use with dehydrants, clearants and waxes).
To use the reagent at a specific temperature
(for use with all reagents).

To set the usage temperature for a program or flush step:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Select the program or flush that you want to change.

• In the column labelled with the icon, press the

current usage temperature for the required reagent.

Note
To access the settings for the program clearant and
infiltration groups, press the button.

The current temperature selection is shown at the

top of the screen. Edit Program screen (step temperature highlighted)

• Use the number pad to set the usage temperature.

Alternatively, press Amb. to use the reagent at
ambient temperature or Storage Temp. to use the
reagent at its storage temperature.
• To copy the setting to other members of the reagent
group, select Copy To Group.

Note
Ambient is not available for infiltrants and storage
temperature is not available for fixatives. Copy To
Group is not available for a fixative (steps 1 and 2) or
flush steps.

• Press OK to save your setting and return to the Options The Edit Program - Step Temperature screen
– Edit Program screen. (alcohol and xylene)

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Step Time
You can set the time for each step in a program or flush. The time to transfer reagents is included in the setting
that you choose.
Steps should be at least three minutes long to ensure that all fluid transfers complete on-time.
The first wax step in any program should be at least 10 minutes long in order to minimise wax carry-over on the
Reaction Chamber walls, and to allow the level sensors to warm up to the wax temperature.

To set the time for a program or flush step:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Select the program or flush that you want to
change.

• In the column labelled with the icon, press the

step time for the reagent.

Note
To access the settings for the program clearant and
infiltration groups, press the button.

Edit Program screen (step time highlighted)

The Edit Program - Step Time screen is displayed:

• Use the number pad to set the required step time.
• Select Copy To Group to copy the setting to other
members of the group, if applicable.
• Press OK to save your setting and return to the
Options – Edit Program screen.

Note
The only way to skip a step is to change the step time to
0:00, although the reagent will still be drawn into the
chamber. This is not possible on W1.

The Edit Program - Step Time screen

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Vacuum Setting
Each step in a program or flush can take place at atmospheric pressure or under constant or cycled vacuum
conditions.

To set the vacuum for a program or flush step:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Select the program or flush that you want to
change.

• In the column labelled with the icon, press

the vacuum button for the reagent.

Note
To access the settings for the program clearant and
infiltration groups, press the button.

• Select the required condition:

Specimens are held at atmospheric
Edit Program screen (step vacuum settings highlighted)
pressure.
Specimens are held at approximately
650 mbar absolute (350 mbar below
atmospheric pressure).
Specimens are held in a
increasing/decreasing, 15 minute,
pressure cycle that ranges from
approximately 650 mbar absolute
(vacuum conditions) through to
atmospheric pressure.
• Press OK to save your setting and return to the
Options – Edit Program screen.

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Drain Time
For each step in your program or flush, you can set how long specimens are allowed to drain before moving to the
next step.

To set the drain time for a program or flush step:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > Edit

Program.
• Select the program or flush that you want to
change.

• In the column labelled with the icon, press

the drain time for the reagent.

Note
To access the settings for the program clearant and
infiltration groups, press the button.

Edit Program screen (step drain time settings highlighted)

The Edit Program - Step Drain Time screen is

displayed:
• Use the number pad to set the required drain
time (30-180 seconds).
• Select Copy To Group to copy the setting to
other members of the group, if applicable.
• Press OK to save your setting and return to the
Options – Edit Program screen.

The Edit Program - Step Drain Time screen

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Enabling and Disabling Individual Steps

To adapt programs and flushes to your needs, you can enable or disable steps from any of the following
program sections:
• Individual fixative steps
• Dehydrant group steps
• Clearant group steps
• Infiltration group steps
• Individual flush steps

Example program Display

Step 1 is enabled and step 2 is disabled:

Enabling and disabling program steps

If you disable a step or group, it is also shown

not selected on the Main Screen when you
are editing the program:

Fix2 is disabled and not selected on the display

When the program is run, Step 2 is shown

greyed out and will be skipped:

Step 2 is skipped after Step 1 completes

To enable or disable a program step or group:

• To disable a step or group, press the step selection box to clear the selection marker (tick).
• To enable a step or group, press the step selection box to display a selection marker (tick).
• Press OK to save your changes and return to the Select a Program... screen.
• To return to the Main Screen, press and then OK.

Start Type
You can specify whether you want the program to start immediately or after a delay. Yellow indicates the current
setting:
• Immediate Start – The program will start immediately and run through the chosen steps to completion.
• Delayed Start – The start time of the program will be delayed so that the program can run overnight and
complete at the Preferred End Time, see Workflow Setup Options Explained on page 110.

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Access Code Protection

Access code protection enables the main administrator of the instrument to protect certain system functions. This
helps to restrict the level of access that individual or groups of operators have across all menus and options.
To use access codes, a four-digit Admin Code must first be set by the instrument administrator. Once this is set,
users can be added and their four-digit access code and level of access defined.
When access code protection has been enabled, the following types of padlock icon are displayed:
• On the Information Bar (bottom of screen):
This indicates that the interface is unlocked for the main administrator (ADMIN). This level
of access is protected by the Admin Code.

This indicates that access to the interface is restricted according to the level of access given to
a particular user. Their user name is displayed under the padlock.
• On function buttons:
This indicates that access to the function has been restricted. To gain access, the
operator must enter a four-digit access code.

Note
The Options – Customer Services – Production Services and Reset Options buttons are permanently restricted.
Production Services provides options to assist with fault finding and recovery.
Contact your service representative for assistance with these functions.

Access code protection is available for the following functions:

• Options Access to the Options Menu from the Main Screen.
• Instrument setup Access to the Instrument Setup menu.
• Edit program Access to the Edit Program option.
• Modify start Ability to modify start program parameters on the Reaction Chamber Available screen.
• Inspect reagent Access to the Inspect Reagent option from the Quality Control menu.
• QC override Ability to override QC warnings and postpone rotation.

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Enabling Access Code Protection

The instrument is shipped without any access codes set. To use Access Codes, you must first set an Admin Code.

To set an Admin Code:

• From the Main Screen, select Options >

Instrument Setup > Access Codes.
The Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes screen
appears.
• Press Set Admin Code.
The Set Admin Code screen is displayed.
• Use the number pad to enter a four-digit Admin
access code.
• Press OK.
Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes screen
• Re-enter the access code and press OK.

Note
If you re-enter the code incorrectly, you will be
prompted to re-enter the code twice.

The Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes screen

reappears.
The unlocked ADMIN padlock icon is
shown on the Information Bar:
• To log out of the access level that you are using,
touch the padlock icon.

Note
Always return to the home screen after touching the
padlock icon to prevent unauthorised access to any
unprotected functions.
Set Admin Code screen

To clear an Admin Code:

Note
Clearing the Admin Code will permanently delete all users.

• Press the Clear Admin Code button.

Press OK to confirm that you want to clear the Admin Code and delete all users.

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Adding a New System User

Note
Before adding users to the system, an Admin Code must be set and you will need to have Admin access.
An unlocked ADMIN padlock icon, shown on the Information Bar, indicates this.
See Enabling Access Code Protection on page 126 for details.

To add a new system user:

• From the Main Screen, select Options >

Instrument Setup > Access Codes.
The Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes screen
appears.
• Press Add User.
The Add / Edit User screen appears.
• Press Name and use the on-screen keyboard to
enter the new user's login name.

Note Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes screen

A maximum of 5 characters can be used for user
names.

• Press OK.
The Add / Edit User screen reappears, showing
the new user name on the Name button.
• To change the name, press the Name button
and enter a new name.
• Press Set Code and use the number pad to
define the user's four-digit access code. Press
OK.
• Re-enter the access code and press OK.
Add / Edit User screen Setting the user code
If the code is accepted, the Add / Edit User with user name
screen reappears. If the code is not accepted,
enter a different code.

• Press OK to return to the Set Access Codes

screen. Username row with 3 users added
The new user is listed in the Username row.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.

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Granting Access to a Function

Note
Before granting access to functions, an Admin Code must be set and you will need to have Admin access.
An unlocked ADMIN padlock icon, shown on the Information Bar, indicates this.
See Enabling Access Code Protection on page 126 for details.

To grant access to a function:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Access

Codes.
The Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes
screen appears.
• Press the appropriate buttons on the username /
function table to select (tick) functions that you
want particular users to have access to.
• Press OK.

Note
Adding access to different functions for users
Options must be selected in order for a user to be
able to access Instrument Setup and Edit Program.

Removing Access to a Function

Note
Before removing access to functions, an Admin Code must be set and you will need to have Admin access.
An unlocked ADMIN padlock icon, shown on the Information Bar, indicates this.
See Enabling Access Code Protection on page 126 for details.

To remove access to a function:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Access

Codes.
The Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes
screen appears.
• Press the appropriate buttons on the username /
function table to clear the tick from any
functions that you do not want a user to have
access to.
• Press OK.
Removing access to QC Override for user Test User 1

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Deleting a System User

Note
Before deleting system users, an Admin Code must be set and you will need to have Admin access.
An unlocked ADMIN padlock icon, shown on the Information Bar, indicates this.
See Enabling Access Code Protection on page 126 for details.

To delete a system user:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Access

Codes.
The Instrument Setup – Set Access Codes screen
appears.
• Press the user that you want to delete.
The Add / Edit User screen appears. Deleting the user Test User 3
• Press Delete User.
The Delete User - Confirm screen is displayed.
• To delete the user, press OK.
The Instrument Setup – Set Access Code screen
reappears.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.

Delete User - Confirm screen

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Audio and Remote Alarms

Excelsior AS monitors various system events which can be used to trigger audio and remote alarms. For example,
audio alarms can be set to alert operators that the instrument is on hold (the lid has been opened when processing
has started) or a program has ended.
Remote alarms can be used to alert on-call managers that an instrument has a fault or mains power has failed.
For more information about connecting remote alarms and autodialers, see Connecting a Remote Alarm
on page 32.
External circuits should only be connected to the Remote Alarm socket by a technically
competent person.
The external circuit should comply with the requirements of either IEC 61010-1 or
IEC 60950, or both.

Using Audio and Remote Alarms

The Instrument Setup - Audio Remote Alarms screen
displays a list of system events that can be monitored.
From here you can configure the system to play a
sound and / or trigger a remote alarm should any of the
listed events occur.
• To access the screen, select Options >
Instrument Setup > Audio / Remote Alarms.

The Instrument Setup - Audio Remote Alarms screen

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Changing the alarm settings

You can change alarm sounds, the number of repeats and enable or disable instrument alarms for events.
Up to two remote alarms can be defined for each event and operated for any combination of events.

Note
The careful setting of alarms helps to ensure that processing quality is maintained and that any faults are
identified promptly.

Alarm sound:

• To listen to the current sound, press the symbol next to the event description.
• To change the current sound, press the sound button for an event until the required sound is shown.
The selected sound will play on each press of the sound button.

Alarm repeat:
• Press the repeat button for an event until the required number of repeats is shown:
The sound will play once and not repeat.

The number of times that the sound will repeat after the first play (1 to 5).

The sound will repeat continuously.

Remote alarm (RA) 1 and 2:

• Press the RA1 / RA2 buttons until the required condition is shown:
The RA is enabled and will remain active until it is turned off.

The RA is disabled and will ignore any event that occurs.

The RA is enabled and will remain on for the duration of the alarm sound repeats.

• To save the settings and return to the Instrument Setup screen, press OK.

Remote Alarm Notification Icons

When a remote alarm is triggered an icon displays in the grey bar at the bottom of the interface. The alarm can be
silenced by pressing the bell icon.
The following icons can be shown:

Remote Alarm 1 has been triggered.

Remote Alarm 2 has been triggered.

Both Remote Alarm 1and Remote Alarm 2 have been triggered.

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File Operations
Excelsior AS can save programs, flushes and setup information to a USB memory stick for backup or transfer to
another instrument. You will find the options to save and load information on the File Operations menu.

Note
It is important to save programs and the setup of
your instrument to a USB memory stick.

You can use this information to restore your

instrument should there be a problem, or transfer
the setup, programs or flushes to another Excelsior
AS instrument in your laboratory.

Folder Naming
The name of the USB root folder is taken from the
instrument’s serial number. The report subfolders are
named by date and the identification text on the
reports is taken from the Instrument ID and Customer
Text.

The Options - File Operations menu

Using a USB memory stick with the instrument:

The USB port is for memory sticks only.

Do not connect any other type of USB device to the Excelsior AS.

• Insert a USB memory stick into the USB port. For the location of the USB port, see Identification of Parts
on page 17.

Inserting a USB memory stick will prompt the icon to appear at the bottom of the Main Screen, to
the right of the date and time.
• Press the icon to capture an image of the screen.
Images are saved to the root directory of the USB memory stick in a folder called ScreenDumps.

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Saving Programs and Flushes

Programs and flushes can be saved onto a USB memory stick to provide a backup or for transfer to another
Excelsior AS instrument. This can be done with individual programs and flushes, or all programs and flushes.

Note
Before saving or loading programs and flushes, ensure that a USB memory stick is in place in the instrument. If a
USB memory stick is not in place, the options will appear shaded.

To save a selected program:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File

Operations > Save Programs.
• Select the program(s) that you want to save from
the Select a Program screen.
• Press OK to save and return to the Options –
File Operations screen.

To save all programs:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File
Operations > Save Programs.
• Press Select All to select all programs on the list.
• Press OK to save and return to the Options –
File Operations screen. Select a Program screen

To save a selected flush:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File
Operations > Save Programs.
• Press Flushes.
• Select the flush that you want to save from the
Select a Flush screen.
• Press OK to save and return to the Options –
File Operations screen.

To save all flushes:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File
Operations > Save Programs.
• Press Flushes.
Select a Flush screen
• Press Select All to select all flushes on the list.
• Press OK to save and return to the Options –
File Operations screen.

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Loading Programs and Flushes

The following types of program and flush can be loaded on to the instrument:
• Individual programs or flushes that have been developed and saved from another instrument.
• All programs or flushes from another instrument.

Notes
When all of the programs or flushes from another instrument are loaded on to the instrument, all of the programs
or flushes on the current instrument will be overwritten, after confirmation.

Before saving or loading programs and flushes, ensure that a USB memory stick is in place in the instrument. If a
USB memory stick is not in place, the options will appear shaded.

Programs and flushes are loaded from the Load Programs and Load Flushes screens. Both screens have the
following options:
Select a From here, you can select a source
source folder folder that contains the required
program or flush.
Source folders are labelled with the
instrument serial number.

Note
Any other folders present on the USB memory stick
will also appear on the Select Source Folder screen.

Select a From here, you can select a program

program to load or flush from the selected source
folder.
Select a From here, you can select a program Load Programs screen
destination slot that will be overwritten with the
program slot chosen program or flush. The default
is the next empty program slot.
Load All This enables you to load all
programs or flushes from the selected
source folder.
Flushes / This enables you to switch between
Programs the Load Program and Load Flushes
screens.

Load Flushes screen

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To load an individual program:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File

Operations > Load Programs.
The File Operations - Load Programs screen
appears.
Select a source folder button (Load Programs screen)
• To change the source folder, press the Select a
source folder button and select the required
folder from the list.
The Load Programs screen reappears.
• To select the program that you want to load,
press the Select a program to load button and
choose the program.
• Press OK.
The File Operations - Load Programs screen
reappears and the destination will default to the
next empty program slot. This is indicated on
the Select a destination program slot button.
• To change the destination, press Select a
destination program slot, select the required
slot and press OK. You can overwrite an existing Selecting a source folder from a USB memory stick
program, if required.
• Press OK to load the selected program.
• Press the button to return to the Options
screen and then OK to return to the Main
Screen.

Selecting a program and destination (Load Programs screen)

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To load all programs:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File

Operations > Load Programs.
The Load Programs screen appears.
• To change the source folder, press the Select a
source folder button and select the required
folder from the list.
The Load Programs screen reappears.
• Press Load All.

Loading all programs from USB

You will be prompted to confirm that you want

to overwrite all of the programs on your
instrument.
• To cancel and return to the Load Programs
screen, press .
• Click OK to load all programs.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.

Press OK to confirm

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To load an individual flush:

• From the Main Screen, select Options > File

Operations > Load Programs.
The Load Programs screen appears.
• Press Flushes. Select a source folder button (Load Flushes screen)
The File Operations – Load Flushes Screen
appears.
• To change the source folder, press the Select a
source folder button and select the required
folder from the list.
The Load Flushes screen reappears.
• To select the flush that you want to load, press
the Select a flush to load button and choose a
flush.
• Press OK.
The Load Flushes screen reappears and the
destination will default to the next empty flush
slot. This is indicated on the ‘Select a destination
flush slot’ button.
Selecting a source folder from a USB memory stick
• To change the destination, press Select a
destination flush slot, select the required slot
and press OK. You can overwrite an existing
flush, if required.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK
repeatedly.
Selecting a flush and destination (Load Flushes screen)

To load all flushes:

• Select Options > File Operations > Load

Programs.
The Load Programs screen appears.
• Press Flushes.
The File Operations – Load Flushes Screen
appears.
• To change the source folder, press the Select a
source folder button and select the required
folder from the list.
The Load Program screen reappears.
• Press Load All.

Loading all flushes from USB

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You will be prompted to confirm that you want

to overwrite all of the programs on your
instrument.
• Click OK to load all flush programs.
To cancel and return to the Load Programs
screen, press .

Press OK to confirm

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Loading and Saving Setup

Instrument setup information can be saved to a USB memory stick and then loaded from the stick to other
instruments. The following setup information is saved:
• Reagent names
• Storage temperatures
• Rotation management settings
• Reagent use limits
• Access code settings
Setup data is saved to the instrument’s source folder on the USB stick. Source folders are labelled with the
instrument serial number.

Note
Before saving or loading instrument setup, ensure that a USB memory stick is in place in the instrument. If a
USB memory stick is not in place, the options will appear shaded.

To save instrument setup:

• Select Options > File Operations > Save Setup.
The setup data is saved to the instrument’s source folder on the USB memory stick.

Note
Any existing setup data in the source folder will be overwritten. To save more than one set of setup data, use a
separate USB memory stick.

To load instrument setup:

• Select Options > File Operations > Load Setup.
The File Operations – Load Setup Screen appears. The current source folder is displayed within the Select
a source folder button.
• To change the source folder, press the Select a source folder button and select the required folder from
the list and press OK.
The Options – File Operations screen reappears.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK twice.

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Setting Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Messages

Excelsior AS can be programmed to send user-defined LIMS messages including program start, underfill, alcohol
at limit, filter changed and instrument fault. A maximum of 50 characters can be used for LIMS messages.

Note
The message length is also limited to the maximum number of visible characters that the on-screen keyboard can
display.

For the location of the Excelsior AS LIMS interface, see Connecting to a Laboratory Information Management
System (LIMS) on page 34.

To set LIMS messages:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Set LIMS

Interface.
The SetLIMS screen appears.
• Press to clear any message that has been defined for an
event.
• Press within the Message box to define an outgoing
message using the on-screen keyboard.

Note
A maximum of 50 characters can be used for LIMS messages.

• Press to send the defined message via the LIMS

interface.
• Press OK to save any changes and return to the
Instrument Setup menu. Press to return without
saving. Set LIMS screen

• To return to the Main Screen, press OK repeatedly.

Language
Changing the Display Language
The display language is set when the instrument is setup, but it can be changed, if required.

To change the display language:

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Language Select.

The currently selected language is shown in yellow text.
• Press the button for the required display language and
press OK.
• To return to the Main Screen, press OK repeatedly.
The Instrument Setup - Language Select screen

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Customer Services
This menu provides access to a range of options and settings that are used as an aid to fault finding and recovery.

Note
The functions on this screen should be used with caution. Contact your service representative for assistance with
these functions.

To access the Customer Services menu:

• Select Options > Customer Services.
The Customer Services screen appears.
The following options and functions can be accessed from the Customer Services menu:
• Production Services: Production Services provides options to assist with fault finding and recovery.

Note
This button is permanently restricted.

• Calibrate Touchscreen: This option starts a utility that will automatically adjust the touchscreen for
optimal responsiveness to your touch.
To calibrate the touchscreen:
• Carefully press on the centre of the target (cross).
• Repeat as the target moves around the screen.
• When there are no more targets to press, tap the screen twice to return to
the Customer Services screen.

• Disable Pipes: From this screen you can disable pipes, connecting the reagent containers with
the Reaction Chamber, in order to isolate components.

Note
This facility can be used to remove one reagent in a group from within a
program. It should only be used in the event of a fault until a service
representative can attend.

• Reset Options: From here, you can perform a reset to return the instrument to the factory
installed settings and set the instrument to display a full load of reagents for
testing purposes.

Note
These options are permanently restricted.

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 Chapter 5 – Cleaning and Maintenance

Chapter 5 - Cleaning and Maintenance

This chapter describes how to clean and maintain your Excelsior AS instrument and covers the following subjects:
• Cleaning safety
• Clearing spillages
• Daily and weekly cleaning tasks
• Cleaning reagent bottle dip tubes and the flush water bottle
• Discarding used wax
• Cleaning the touch screen display
• Changing filters
• Checking the instrument on a regular basis
• Taking the instrument out of operation

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Cleaning Safety and Tasks

Cleaning Safety
Normal standards of laboratory hygiene and routine maintenance procedures are all that is necessary to keep the
Excelsior AS in good and serviceable condition.
Before using any cleaning or decontamination method, except those recommended by the manufacturer, users
should check with the manufacturer that the proposed method will not damage the equipment.

Inspect the instrument for obvious damage or wear whenever you clean or use it.

Always wipe up any spills immediately.

In the event of a major spillage, disconnect the instrument from the mains supply
immediately and do not reconnect and switch on until the instrument has been thoroughly
dried out and checked by a Service Engineer.
If biohazardous material is spilt on, or inside, the instrument you must carry out the
appropriate decontamination.

Do not use abrasive compounds or metal components to clean Excelsior AS or its components
and accessories.

Always take the necessary safety precautions when you clean or decontaminate Excelsior AS to
protect yourself against the effects of chemicals.

As with all scientific equipment, due care and Good Laboratory Practice must be employed
when dealing with chemicals, and consideration must be given to the potential for hazard
when dealing with particular chemicals.

Unless otherwise stated, only use reagents that appear on the approved list to clean Excelsior
AS (see Appendix D - Approved Reagents on page 181).

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Clearing Spillages
Any reagent spills within the instrument will be contained. Small spills, such as drips from the reagent tubes when
the reagents are changed, will evaporate and be extracted.

Some chemicals which may be used during operation are flammable – do not use sources of
ignition in the vicinity of the instrument when it is loaded with reagents.

Harmful chemical vapours such as xylene and toluene may be emitted during the normal
operation of some instruments, and the operator should be aware of suitable precautions and
safety measures.

To clean large spills:

• Remove all the reagent bottles from the Reagent Storage Area.
• To access the spillage containment area, lift and remove the metal shelf in the base of the
Reagent Storage Area.
• Clean and dispose of any liquid from this area in accordance with any local procedures or regulations.
• Replace the metal shelf and the reagent bottles.

Note
Ensure that the metal shelf is the correct way up; the folded edge must be on the top.

Daily and Weekly Cleaning Tasks

The following cleaning tasks must be performed on a daily and weekly basis.

Daily
Check the following on a daily basis:
• General instrument cleanliness.
• Reagent bottle contents (front bottles).
• Level sensors; clean as required.

Weekly
Check the following on a weekly basis:
• Spillage containment area.
• Wax bath contents.
• Level sensors; clean with the provided Level Sensor cleaning pad.

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Wax and Wax Baths

Ensure that you wipe out Wax Bath 3 after the wax is rotated and discarded into the waste wax tray.

Discarding Used Wax

When the oldest wax is discarded from the W1 position during a rotation (see Renewing Dehydrants, Clearants
and Infiltrants Using Rotation on page 83), it is discarded directly into the consumable waste wax tray.

Note
For information on how to discard wax after an inspection, see Discarding a Reagent after Inspection on page 97.

To discard used wax:

• Open the wax door and carefully slide the

consumable waste wax tray from the instrument.

The waste wax tray contains hot

molten wax.

• Place the tray in a cool, well-ventilated area away

from the instrument and allow the wax to set.
• When the waste wax has set, discard the entire
waste wax tray and solid wax in accordance with
local procedures and regulations.
• Fit a new consumable waste wax tray into the
instrument above the wax baths and close the
access doors.
Ensure that there is always an empty
waste wax tray in the instrument.
Waste wax tray fitted above W1 and W2

Cleaning the Wax Bath

After a wax rotation has completed, Wax Bath 3 is empty.

To clean the wax bath:

• Open the wax access door on the left.
• Use absorbent paper to wipe out any remaining wax from the wax bath.
Make sure that no paper is left in the wax bath.
The bases of the wax baths are hot.
Always wear protective gloves.

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Reagent and Flush Bottles

Ensure that you clean the reagent dip tubes when reagents are replaced.

Note
The Flush 3 bottle should be cleaned and refilled when flush reagents are renewed.

Cleaning the Reagent Supply Bottle Dip Tubes

The dip tubes supplying the following bottles must be cleaned each time the reagents are changed or discarded:
• Fixative 1 (Fix1)
• Fixative 2 (Fix2)
• Exchange 1 (Ex1)
• Exchange 2 (Ex2)
• Flush 1 (F1)
• Flush 2 (F2)
• Flush 3 (F3)

To clean reagent supply bottle dip tubes during reagent change:

• Carefully remove the dip tubes from the reagent bottles.
• Clean any contamination from the surface of the tubes with a lint-free cloth.
• Remove the bottles from the instrument and replace their caps.
• Dispose of the used reagents in accordance with your local regulations and procedures.
• Replace reagents according to the Quality Control and Reagent Renewal procedures. See Quality Control,
Filter and Reagent Renewal Limits on page 78.

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Cleaning the Flush 3 Water Bottle

The Flush 3 (F3) bottle is located in the cabinet, below the F1 and F2 bottles.

To remove the F3 water bottle:

• Remove the F1 and F2 bottles.
• Remove the green reagent tube from the rear of the F3 bottle and carefully lift and slide the bottle out of
the Reagent Storage Area.
• Remove the cap and dispose of the water in accordance with any local procedures and regulations.
Keep the F3 bottle level to avoid any spillage. The F3 bottle must be cleaned before it is
refilled with water.

To clean the F3 water bottle:

• Rinse the bottle with clean water and mild detergent.
• Use a bottle brush if required.
Do not use temperatures higher than 60°C.

To refill and refit the F3 water bottle:

• Refill the F3 bottle with water up to the

underside of the fill-line (approximately 5
litres).
• Replace the cap.
• Place the water bottle in the Reagent Storage
Area with the cap towards the front of the
instrument.
• Fit the green tube into the open pipe at the rear
of the F3 water bottle.
• Make sure that the tube is fully inserted into the
water bottle (so it sits on the bottom of the
bottle) and that there are no kinks in the
flexible section of tube.
• Replace the F1 and F2 bottles.
F3 Water bottle with the fill-line visible

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General Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Display

The touch screen display should be cleaned on a regular basis. Ensure that the screen is locked before it is cleaned.

To clean the display:

• Lock the screen. To do this, press and hold the Thermo Scientific logo in the bottom right of the screen
until the 'locked screen' icon appears.
• Gently wipe the touch screen with a soft damp cloth.
• Unlock the touch screen. To do this, press and hold the Thermo Scientific logo in the bottom right of the
screen until the 'locked screen' icon disappears.

Do not use solvents to clean the touch screen.

Changing Filters
Change the filters every 13 weeks. To replace the filters, follow the instructions in Fitting the Filters on page 29.

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Regular Maintenance Checks

The following table describes items that should be checked on a regular basis:
Area Item Frequency What to do
Wax baths Level Weekly Check wax levels in all wax baths.

Clean the Reaction Chamber and keep the lid and

Seal After each processing run
seal clear of solid wax deposits.
After each flush cycle Carefully wipe with gauze or paper towels.
Lid/Reaction Level Sensors Clean with tissue or the provided Level Sensor
Chamber Weekly
cleaning pad.
Check that the lid latch operates correctly. The
Whenever the lid is
Latch downdraft system should operate and the display
opened
should show the lid open.
When loading or Check that the flexible parts of the reagent tubes in
Reagent Pipes
unloading reagents the front of the cabinet are not damaged or collapsed.
Press the Push-to-Test switch next to the Heater
Reset Switch in the Reagent Storage Area. The
Heater Reset Switch should operate and the Reaction
Reaction Chamber Heater trip icon will be displayed on the
Chamber Heater Monthly screen.
Trip Press the Heater Reset Switch in fully to reactivate
Reagent the Reaction Chamber heaters. The Reaction
Storage Area Chamber Heater Fault icon will disappear from the
screen.
Check the operation of the Battery Isolation Switch
during a flush cycle.
Battery Isolation When the O side is pressed (OFF), the Battery Fault
Monthly
Switch icon should be displayed.
When the I side of the switch is pressed (ON), the
icon should disappear.

Instrument Shutdown Procedure

For continuous and consistent processing, Excelsior AS should be switched on at all times. However, if the
instrument is to be moved, left unattended for extended periods of time, or decommissioned, carry out the
following steps.
• Ensure that any processing programs have finished.
• Carry out a flush procedure. See Flushing the Instrument on page 71 for details.
• Unload wax and reagents from the instrument. See Unloading Reagents on page 151 for details.
• Press the O (OFF) side of the main I/O power switch to switch off Excelsior AS.
• When the screen goes blank, wait approximately 10 seconds until you hear a ‘click’ sound.
• Press the O (OFF) side of the Battery Isolation Switch to isolate the battery.

Note
If you want to repack the instrument, refer to Appendix C – Repacking Instructions on page 177.

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Unloading Reagents
If required, all of the wax and reagents can be unloaded from Excelsior AS. This should be done in the following
situations:
• If you are changing to a different set of reagents.
• If the instrument is to be moved or left unattended for a long period of time.
Unloading removes all reagents via the Reaction Chamber into the waste wax tray and exchange bottles at
positions Ex1 and Ex2.

Note
The Unload Reagents option is only available when reagents have already been loaded into Excelsior AS. Refer to
Loading Reagents on page 43 for information on loading reagents into the instrument.

Initiating Reagent Unloading

• Select Options > Instrument Setup > Unload Reagents.

The Unload Sequence screen appears.
• To unload the reagents from the instrument, follow the on-screen instructions and then press Unload.

Unloading Wax

Note
Wear gloves during this procedure due to the high temperature of the wax.

• Ensure the consumable waste wax

tray is correctly fitted above wax
baths, W1 and W2.
• Press Unload to pump the wax from
the selected wax bath into the
Reaction Chamber and then discard
it into the waste wax tray.

Note
At this point, you may need to wait for
the wax to reach temperature before the
transfer.

• Repeat this process for the other wax

Unloading wax
baths.
When the last wax bath has been
unloaded, the screen instructions
will prompt you to start a hot rinse
using F1.
• Press Start to flush and remove any
remaining wax from the Reaction
Chamber.

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Unloading Clearants
The unload procedure continues; the Ex2
bottle is highlighted with a red outline and
the first clearant bottle (X3) is highlighted
with a black outline.
• Confirm that bottle Ex2 is empty
and then press Unload to continue
removing the reagents.
The contents of X3 is drawn into the
Reaction Chamber and then
pumped into Ex2.
The Ex2 bottle image changes to
full, with a flashing black outline
and warning triangle displayed
within it. Unloading clearants – Ex2 and X3 outlined

• Remove bottle Ex2 and dispose of its

contents in accordance with local
procedures and regulations.
• Place another empty bottle in the
Ex2 position and press Unload.
• Follow the screen instructions to
continue removing the remaining
clearant reagents.
When all clearants are unloaded you
will be prompted to start a flush to
remove any remaining clearant from
the Reaction Chamber.
• Press Start for a hot F2 rinse.
Unloading clearants – Ex2 full and X2 outlined
• Press Start for a cold F3 rinse.

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Unloading Flush Reagents

• Remove the F1, F2 and F3 bottles

from the cabinet and press Unload.
• Dispose of waste reagents in
accordance with local procedures
and regulations.
• Replace F3 back into the cabinet
after emptying.

Unloading Flush Reagents, F1 highlighted

Unloading Dehydrants
The unload procedure continues; the first
dehydrant bottle (A1) and the Ex1 bottle are
highlighted.
• Follow the screen instructions to
confirm that the bottle Ex1 is empty.
Press Unload to continue to remove
the reagents.
• Remove the Ex1 bottle and dispose
of its contents in accordance with
local procedures and regulations.
• Place another empty bottle in the
Ex1 position and follow the screen
instructions to remove the remaining
dehydrants. A6 dehydrant bottle and the Ex1 position highlighted

Removing Fixatives
• Remove the Fix1 and Fix2 bottles from the cabinet and press Unload.
The Instrument Setup menu is re-displayed.
• Dispose of waste reagents in accordance with local procedures and regulations.
• Press OK to return to the Options menu and then OK again to return to the Main Screen.

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Chapter 6 -Troubleshooting
This chapter describes how to troubleshoot problems that may occur when using Excelsior AS and covers the
following subjects:
• Recognising alert icons and use the Fault Status screen to identify and resolve problems.
• Dealing with instrument malfunctions, should they occur.
• Solving tissue processing problems.
• A list of frequently asked questions with answers.

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Faults
Alert Icons
Excelsior AS places the highest priority on specimen integrity and processing quality. The instrument continually
monitors its status, giving clear visual and audible warnings in the event of a problem, and provides specimen
safety measures.
• Alert icons appear at the bottom of the screen, to the left of the Thermo Scientific logo.
• The Quality Control and Fault Status screens enable quick diagnosis; these are automatically displayed if
you start a program when there are problems with the instrument or reagents. Issues must be resolved
before the program will start. For more information, refer to Quality Control Checks on page 61 and
Using the Fault Status Screen on page 158.
• The rechargeable battery provides backup power if there is a mains power failure.
• A sounding alarm with remote facility can send warnings outside of working hours.

Icon Description

Reaction Chamber Heater Trip

Processing cannot start. Open the right cabinet door and press the Reset switch. This icon is
normally displayed when power is restored after an interruption. See Instrument Start-up
Procedure on page 35.
Reaction Chamber Heater Trip Due to Error
An error has caused the heater to trip. Processing cannot start. Open the right cabinet door and
press the Reset switch.
Access Code
The access code has been entered. The name of the user who entered the code is displayed below
the icon. See Access Code Protection on page 125.
Main Cabinet Doors Open
This condition displays the Quality Control Screen. Close and lock the cabinet doors then press
OK to leave the Quality Control Screen.
Battery Isolation Switch
The battery isolation switch is not on. Open the right cabinet door and turn the rocker switch
ON to restore battery backup and ensure power to the instrument. See Instrument Start-up
Procedure on page 35.
Mains Power Failure
The instrument is running on battery backup power. The available power is displayed as a
percentage. Inspect mains power connections, power cable and mains supply. Some heating
functions are limited when running on battery backup.
Quality Control Alert
Open the Quality Control screen for details.

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Icon Description

Remote Alarm
A remote alarm has sounded. The icon indicates whether it is Alarm 1 or Alarm 2. Press the icon
to silence the alarm.
Netmon Session in Progress
Netmon information is being downloaded and the instrument is being checked.
USB Flash Drive Connected
A USB memory stick has been connected via the USB port on the front of the instrument.
Press the icon to capture an image of the screen. Images are saved to the root directory of the
USB memory stick in a folder called ScreenDumps.
Screen Locked
The screen is currently locked. To lock or unlock the screen, press and hold the Thermo
Scientific Logo at the bottom right of the interface for five seconds. See Cleaning the Display on
page 149.
Concept Demonstration
The Concept Demonstration program is currently active. The screen lock function is not
available in Concept Demonstration mode. See Concept Demonstration on page 106.
Hardware Issue
There is a problem with the instrument which has not been acknowledged. Processing cannot
start. Press Options > Faults to display the Fault Status screen. Pressing the icon will also open
the Fault Status screen. See Using the Fault Status Screen on page 158.

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Using the Fault Status Screen

If the wrench (spanner) icon is displayed, this indicates that there is a
hardware issue that needs to be addressed before processing can start.
You will need to check the Fault Status Screen to find out more
information about the issue.
• To display the screen either select Options > Faults or press
the wrench (spanner) icon.
The Fault Status Screen lists all current warnings and faults and their
status:
• A warning (WARN) indicates the presence of an issue that can
be acknowledged or resolved by the operator.
• A fault (FAULT) indicates the presence of an issue that may
require service intervention.
• To display any warnings or faults that are not listed on the first
page, press Page Down. Fault Status Screen

• To view all active and inactive warnings and faults, press

Show All.
The following information is displayed for each warning and fault:
• Number: Each warning and fault has a predefined number
and is listed in numerical order.
• Status: Reported as OK, WARN or FAULT.
• Name: For example, Specific gravity or Reaction Chamber
(RC) trip out.
• Last: The date and time of the last trigger.
• Count: The number of times that the warning or fault has
occurred.

Note
Some warnings, that can be resolved by the operator, have a
solution displayed at the top of the screen:

Fault Solution

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Acknowledge and Retry

• If the status is WARN, you can select Acknowledge.
• If the status is FAULT, you can select Retry.
These selections clear the alert icon, and you can try to continue
processing. If the problem persists, contact Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Acknowledge button

More Info
For historical information about a fault, select the fault and press
More Info to display the Fault Info screen.
This screen provides details of previous occurrences of the fault
condition and its current status.

Fault Info screen

Underfills and Recovery

Reaction Chamber underfill and overfill events are also displayed on the fault status screen.

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Processing Problems - Soft, Spongy Tissue

Refer to the table below if processing results in soft, spongy tissue.

Note
Excelsior cannot be used for reprocessing.

Problems Possible Causes Solutions

Difficult to section. Inadequate Increase time in fixative.
Section breaks up on the water fixation Use microwave-enhanced technique.
bath. Bisect if encapsulated specimen or produce a
Poor staining. thinner block.

Note
Improper fixation cannot be remedied.

Clearing impossible. Inadequate Increase time in alcohol.

Discoloured cloudy areas within dehydration Make sure concentration of alcohol is correct.
specimen. Adjust solution rotation schedule.
Section breaks up on water Rule out contamination from lipids.
bath.
Bisect if encapsulated specimen or produce a
thinner block.
Re-infiltrate in wax. If inadequate, reverse process
to absolute alcohol and reprocess.
Wax cannot infiltrate. Inadequate Make sure the specimen is completely dehydrated.
Discoloured cloudy areas within clearing Adjust rotation schedule.
specimen. Increase time in clearant.
Section breaks up on the water Use vacuum.
bath.
Bisect if encapsulated specimen or produce a
thinner block.
Re-infiltrate in wax. If inadequate, reverse process
to absolute alcohol and reprocess.
Can feel or smell clearing Inadequate Extend exposure time.
solution. wax infiltration Use vacuum.
No support when sectioned. Bisect if encapsulated specimen or produce thinner
Section breaks up on the water block.
bath. Re-infiltrate. Use vacuum to promote infiltration.

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Processing Problems - Hard, Brittle Tissue

Refer to the table below if processing results in hard, brittle tissue.

Problems Possible Causes Solutions

Obvious drying of all or part of Drying during Use the volume of 20:1 in an appropriately sized
the specimen. transport container of fixative.
Reconstitute the specimen.
Brittle sections that fall out of Excessive Decrease time and/or steps.
block. dehydration Check graduated strengths of alcohol.
Microchatter. Segregate small, delicate specimens.
Do not use heat and/or vacuum.
Soak for short time in chilled water and then
section slowly. Do not trim away the hydrated area.
Excessive clearing Decrease time and/or steps.
Evaluate xylene substitutes.
Segregate small, delicate specimens.
Do not use heat and/or vacuum.
Soak for short time in chilled water and then
section slowly. Do not trim away the hydrated area.
Excessive heat Reduce processing temperature during reagent
steps.
Decrease time and/or steps.
Check temperature reading with thermometer.
Segregate small, delicate specimens.
Soak for short time in chilled water and then
section slowly. Do not trim away the hydrated area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The following frequently asked questions are answered in this section:
• How do I run a process with only one fixative step? – page 163
• How do I drain the Reaction Chamber one level at a time at the completion of a processing run?
– page 163
• What is the recommended way to open the lid during a process run? – page 163
• Why is the minimum time in the first wax 10 minutes? – page 163
• How can a step be deleted in a program? – page 164
• How do I change the alcohol quality rotation setting? – page 164
• How can I abort a processing run? – page 164
• How do I power off Excelsior AS correctly? – page 164
• How do I check an underfill? – page 165
• What level is 3.8 litres / 1 gallon (US) in the Reaction Chamber? – page 165
• How can I start a processing run on a step other than step 1? – page 165
• How can I discard a concealed reagent or wax? – page 166
• How can I load new reagent into one of the back (concealed) reagent positions? – page 166
• How can I manually rotate the concealed reagents and wax baths? – page 167
• Does Excelsior AS automatically update for Daylight Savings Time (DST)? – page 167
• What is an alcohol hydrometer and how do I use it to check alcohol percentages? – page 168
• Can I use the flush cycle to clean my embedding base moulds? – page 168
• Why is my quality control usage limit count red instead of green? – page 169
• Why can I not enter values other than zero on my filters in the QC screen? – page 169
• How can I determine when my last reagent rotation occurred? – page 170
• How can I verify that all reagent / wax positions were used during the last processing run? – page 170
• How do I retrieve my tissues if an instrument malfunction occurs while the instrument is under vacuum?
– page 171.
• I exited the Inspect Reagents screen while loading reagent into a concealed bottle. How can I finish
loading the bottle? – page 171

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How do I run a process with only one fixative step?

• From the Main Screen, press Options > Edit Program.
The Select a Program screen appears.
• Select the required program.
The Options – Edit Program screen appears.
• Disable the Fixative 2 step by removing the checkmark (tick) from its box.
For details, see Editing a Program or Flush on page 119.

How do I drain the Reaction Chamber one level at a time at the completion of a processing run?
• When processing is complete, press the Drain Next Level button.
For details, see Draining the Reaction Chamber on page 68.

What is the recommended way to open the lid during a process run?
• Press the Lid Release button.
• Wait until the status message says ‘Lid released’ and then open the lid.
For details, see Stopping a Process on page 66.

Note
Opening the lid without first pressing Lid Release will result in a Lid Open Alarm fault.

Why is the minimum time in the first wax 10 minutes?

This is to allow sufficient time to heat the surface of the level sensors.
If the surface of the level sensors are not allowed to heat up sufficiently, a covering of wax can be left on them
when the Reaction Chamber is drained. This will cause the instrument to register the presence of wax up to the
affected level and continue to attempt to drain an already empty chamber.
It takes ten minutes to ensure that the level sensors are all up to temperature.

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How can a step be deleted in a program?

Other than for the fixatives, individual steps cannot be removed from a program.

To remove an entire group of reagents (for example, Dehydrant, Clearant or Infiltration):

• Remove the checkmark (tick) from the applicable box.
For details, see Editing a Program or Flush on page 119.

Note
Entering a zero time (00:00) for a step will NOT delete the step. The appropriate reagent will still be drawn into
the chamber and then immediately drained.

How do I change the alcohol quality rotation setting?

• From the Main screen, press Options > Instrument Setup > Rotation Management.
The Instrument Setup – Rotation Management screen appears.
Use the A1 Quality Threshold arrow keys to adjust the rotation threshold up or down in 1.25%
intervals.
For details, see Reagent Rotation on page 101.

How can I abort a processing run?

• From the Process Monitoring screen, press Stop > Abort.
The Status line will say ‘Aborting Process’ while the Reaction Chamber drains.
Once the chamber is empty, the baskets can be removed and another process started, if required.

Note
It is not recommended to abort a rotation run beyond the fixative step(s). All reagents and waxes should be used
in a program when rotations are to take place – otherwise, a scheduled discard or replenishment might not occur.

How do I power off Excelsior AS correctly?

• Ensure that the instrument is not running a process. If it is, wait until the process has completed and then
run a flush before powering off.
• Switch off the main power switch, located at the back of the unit, and wait while the instrument powers
down.
• When the screen goes blank, wait approximately 10 seconds or until a ‘click’ sound is heard.
It is now safe to turn off the battery switch located in the front cabinet.

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How do I check an underfill?

• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
The Quality Control – Inspect Reagents screen appears.
• Select the bottle that you want to inspect from the display on the left of the screen and press Inspect
Reagent.
The reagent is drawn into the Reaction Chamber. Once this is complete, the reagent can be topped-up by
pouring additional reagent directly into the chamber.
• When finished, close the chamber lid and press Return Reagent.
• For the precautions that need to be observed before attempting this procedure, see Inspecting reagents and
waxes on page 95.

The chamber should be empty when inspecting a reagent.

Ensure that the alcohol positions are topped-up with an appropriate percentage (i.e. a
percentage that is close to that recorded during inspection).
The use of an alcohol hydrometer is recommended for accuracy when attempting to
determine percentages.
The use of an inappropriate alcohol percentage has the potential to adversely affect processing
results.

What level is 3.8 litres / 1 gallon (US) in the Reaction Chamber?

If using 1 gallon (US) bottles, the chamber fluid level reaches mid-way between the second and third level sensors.

Note:
The majority of under-fill problems on Excelsior AS can be eliminated by using 5 litre reagent bottles.

How can I start a processing run on a step other than step 1?

• From the Reaction Chamber Available screen, press the Start Step button until the desired step is reached
and then press Immediate Start.
The selected reagent will be drawn into the Reaction Chamber and the remainder of the process will run
as programmed.

Note
A delayed start function is not available when ‘step-starting’ a process run.

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How can I discard a concealed reagent or wax?

• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
The Quality Control – Inspect Reagents screen appears.
• Select the bottle or wax bath that you want to discard from the display on the left of the screen and press
Inspect Reagent.
The reagent or wax is drawn into the Reaction Chamber.
• Once the reagent or wax has been drawn into the Reaction Chamber, press Discard to discard it.

Note
If you are inspecting wax, it needs to remain in the chamber for a minimum of 10 minutes prior to pressing
Discard so that the chamber has sufficient time to heat.

• Check that an empty reagent bottle or waste wax tray is in place and press Confirm Loaded.
The contents of the chamber drain into the appropriate container.
For details, see Inspecting reagents and waxes on page 95 and Discarding a Reagent after Inspection on
page 97.

How can I load new reagent into one of the back (concealed) reagent positions?
• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
The Quality Control – Inspect Reagents screen appears.
• Select the empty bottle that you want to load from the display on the left of the screen and
press Load Reagent.

Note
The Load Reagent button is only available if the selected bottle is empty. If the selected bottle is full, its contents
will need to be inspected and discarded before loading with new reagent.

• Place the new reagent into the appropriate Exchange position (Ex1 or Ex2) and press Confirm Loaded.
The contents of the Exchange bottle will be drawn into the Reaction Chamber and then automatically
drained into the applicable concealed reagent position.

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How can I manually rotate the concealed reagents and wax baths?
• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
The Quality Control – Inspect Reagents screen appears.
• Select the reagent or wax container that you want to discard from the display on the left of the screen and
press Inspect Reagent.
The reagent or wax is drawn into the Reaction Chamber.
• Once the reagent or wax has been drawn into the Reaction Chamber, press Discard to discard it.

Note
If you are inspecting wax, it needs to remain in the chamber for a minimum of 10 minutes prior to pressing
Discard so that the chamber has sufficient time to heat.

• Check that an empty reagent bottle or waste wax tray is in place and press Confirm Loaded.
The contents of the chamber drain into the appropriate container.
For details, see Inspecting reagents and waxes on page 95 and Discarding a Reagent after Inspection on
page 97.
• To rotate the next reagent or wax in the sequence down to the empty position, select that reagent’s image
from the display on the left of the screen and press Inspect Reagent.
The reagent is drawn into the Reaction Chamber.
• Once the reagent or wax has been drawn into the Reaction Chamber, press Rotate Reagent.
The contents of the chamber will drain one position down the reagent or wax line instead of being
returned to its original container.
• Continue this process until all reagents or waxes have been rotated appropriately.

Does Excelsior AS automatically update for Daylight Savings Time (DST)?

No, it does not. If located in an area where DST is observed, the time needs to be manually changed.

To change the time:

• From the Main Screen press Options > Set Time.
The Options – Set Time screen appears.
• To change the hour, press Hour.
The Hour button becomes highlighted in yellow.
• Use the single arrow keys (up or down) to change the time in one-hour increments
• Press OK to save the changes.

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What is an alcohol hydrometer and how do I use it to check alcohol percentages?

A hydrometer is used to measure the specific gravity of liquids. An alcohol hydrometer measures the specific
gravity of alcohol and correlates it to a scale marked on the hydrometer that measures percentage or proof, or
both.

To check the alcohol percentage of a concealed dehydrant position:

• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
The Quality Control – Inspect Reagents screen appears.
• Select the bottle that you want to inspect from the display on the left of the screen and
press Inspect Reagent.
The reagent is drawn into the Reaction Chamber. Once the reagent has been drawn into the Reaction
Chamber, a sample can be removed for testing purposes.
For details, see Inspecting reagents and waxes on page 95.
• Pour the sample into a tall (preferably clear) container such as a graduated cylinder.
• Gently lower the hydrometer into the cylinder – allowing it to come to rest.

Note
It is important that the hydrometer floats freely in the sample and does not touch the bottom or sides of the
container. Choose a container of suitable size and fill it with an appropriate amount of sample reagent so that
the hydrometer floats within it.

• To read the value of the sample, look for the point at which the top of the sample touches the hydrometer
and the corresponding point on the hydrometer’s percentage / proof scale.

Note:
The majority of under-fill problems on Excelsior AS can be eliminated by using 5 litre reagent bottles.

Can I use the flush cycle to clean my embedding base moulds?

No. It is recommended that the flush cycle be used solely to clean the Reaction Chamber and basket(s). Cleaning
base moulds during a flush cycle increases the amount of paraffin in the flush reagents.

Flush reagents can only be used a maximum of five times.

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Why is my quality control usage limit count red instead of green?

Red usage limit count: This indicates that the quality control limit has been reached (or exceeded) for that
particular reagent or filter. A yellow QC triangle will also be shown in this scenario.
Yellow usage limit count: This indicates that there is one use remaining (or in the case of a filter, one week
remaining) until the limit has been reached.
Green usage limit count: This indicates that the count is within the defined use limit period.

To view or edit use limit settings:

• From the Main screen, press Options > Instrument Setup > Reagent Use Limits.
The Instrument Setup – Reagent Use Limits screen appears. From here you can view and define the use
limits for fixatives, filters and flush reagents.

Why can I not enter values other than zero on my filters in the QC screen?
Counts can only be cleared on filters and flush reagents within the Quality Control screen.

To view or edit use limit settings:

• From the Main screen, press Options > Instrument Setup > Reagent Use Limits.
The Instrument Setup – Reagent Use Limits screen appears.

Note
For the flush reagents, use limit settings cannot be increased beyond the default value of five.

If required, fixative counts can be adjusted. For example, if a process run was started and aborted in the first
fixative step, you may wish to adjust the Fix1 count in order to more accurately reflect actual usage.

To adjust a fixative count:

• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Detailed Information.
The Quality Control – Detailed Information screen appears.
• Select the required fixative from the display on the left of the screen.
An Adjust Count button appears within the Detailed Information screen.
• Press Adjust Count.
The Adjust Count – Fixative Use Count screen appears.
• Enter the required fixative count value and press OK to save.

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How can I determine when my last reagent rotation occurred?

• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Detailed Information.
The Quality Control – Detailed Information screen appears.
This screen lists all of the concealed reagents and wax baths and for each one shows the loading date, the
last rotation date and the number of times that it has been used.

How can I verify that all reagent / wax positions were used during the last processing run?
• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Reports > Concise Event Log – View.
An on-screen report appears that shows a listing of the reagent / wax positions used during a particular
processing run, their order of use and the times that each one was drawn into the Reaction Chamber.

Note
The following time periods can be specified for reports:
• The last run
• The last 24 hours
• The last 7 days
• All data

Why are my processing results very poor immediately following a reagent rotation?
Check the quality of your new A6 reagent to ensure that the previously discarded A1 waste has not been
accidently reloaded into the instrument:
• From the Main screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
• Select the A6 bottle by pressing on its image and then press Inspect Reagent.
Once the reagent has been drawn into the Reaction Chamber, it can be visually inspected. For more
details, refer to Inspecting reagents and waxes on page 95.

Note
If waste has been accidentally reloaded, it should be readily apparent once the reagent is visually inspected. If in
doubt, a hydrometer can be used to determine the alcohol percentage. The A6 position should always contain
100% alcohol.

• If it is determined that former A1 waste has been accidentally reloaded, each position from A6 through
W3 should be discarded and loaded with fresh reagent / wax. For more details, refer to Discarding a
Reagent after Inspection on page 97 and Loading a Reagent or Wax After a Discard on page 98.
• In the event of a xylene rotation only (that is, alcohol did not rotate along with xylene), start by inspecting
X3. If it is determined that former X1 waste has been accidentally reloaded, each position from X3
through W3 should be discarded and loaded with fresh reagent / wax.

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How do I retrieve my tissues if an instrument malfunction occurs while the instrument is under
vacuum?
• Press the Lid Release or Stop / Abort options, if available.
If these options are not available, open the right door, remove the metal baffle plate and pull the red
emergency vacuum release. For details, see Fitting the Filters on page 29.
• Remove all specimens from the Reaction Chamber.

I exited the Inspect Reagents screen while loading reagent into a concealed bottle. How can I
finish loading the bottle?
• The reagent will be in the Reaction Chamber. To return to the Inspect Reagents screen, from the Main
Screen, press Quality Control > Inspect Reagents.
• Press Rotate to complete loading the reagent to the concealed bottle.

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Appendices
The appendices provide additional information about your Excelsior AS instrument.
The following subjects are covered:
• Spares and accessories.
• Fitting optional vent adapters.
• Repacking your instrument after it has been decommissioned.
• Approved reagents.
• Program examples.
• Screen maps showing how the instrument's software menus and options are organised.

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Appendix A - Accessories
Accessories Baskets
Item Quantity Part Number
Organised basket 6 A78410025
Random basket 1 A78410021
Divider 1 A78420158
Basket lid 1 A78420156
SecureSette segment basket kit 1 A82310071
Organiser Fifty segment basket kit 1 A82310038
Level Sensor cleaning pad 1 A78410095

Extraction Adaptor Kits

Item Quantity Part Number
Downdraft Extraction Duct Adapter Kit 1 A82310033
Main Air System Duct Adapter Kit 1 A78410024

Filters
Item Quantity Part Number
Vapour filter (carbon) 1 9990610
Carbon 6 7411258
Formaldehyde Filter 1 9990612
Formaldehyde Filter 6 9990612CS

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Reagent Bottles and Wax Kits

Item Quantity Part Number

5 litre Reagent Bottle (empty) 6 A78410026
Wax Waste Tray 5 8300

Note
A range of tissue processing reagents and wax exchange kits are available from your
Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.

General
Item Quantity Part Number
Operator Guide 1 A82310100
Service Manual 1 A82310101
Spatula 1 P09046
1GB USB Flash Drive 1 AP17385

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Appendix B - Fitting the Optional Vent Adapters

The optional vent adapters allow fumes to be extracted from Excelsior AS into a fume cupboard or hood, or
vented to the outside atmosphere.

Do not use the vent adapters to extract the fumes through the building's Heating,
Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system or a common site extraction system.

Extraction Vent Adapter

The main air system duct adapter attaches to the vent outlet on the back of the instrument and vents reagent and
wax fumes away from the instrument through flexible ducting.

Do not remove the main extraction filters when the extraction vent adapter has been
fitted to the instrument.

To fit the extraction vent adapter:

• Fit the extraction vent adapter to the vent outlet

on the rear of the instrument with the fixings
supplied.
• Attach flexible ducting to the vent adapter and
secure with the clip.
• Route the ducting to a vented area.

Fitting the extraction vent adapter

Downdraft Extraction Vent Adapter

The downdraft extraction duct adapter kit attaches to the back of the downdraft filter compartment and vents the
downdraft airflow away from the instrument through flexible ducting.

Do not remove the main extraction filters when the extraction vent adapter has been
fitted to the instrument.

To fit the downdraft extraction vent adapter:

• Open the downdraft filter cover and remove the

downdraft filter. The filter should be replaced
after the adapter has been fitted.
• Fit the downdraft extraction vent adapter to the
back of the instrument using the screws and
gasket provided.
• Attach flexible ducting to the vent adapter,
secure with the clip and route the ducting to a Fitting the Downdraft Extraction Vent Adapter
vented area.

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Appendix C – Repacking Instructions

If the instrument is to be transported, follow these packaging instructions, after unloading ALL reagents and wax
and switching the instrument off. For more information, refer to Instrument Shutdown Procedure on page 150
and Unloading Reagents on page 151.

When moving Excelsior AS , use safe lifting practices. Excelsior AS weighs approximately
165 kg (364 lb) when empty.

At least two people are needed to safely move the instrument.

Note
Use ALL original packaging and keep the instrument upright at ALL times.

• Place the base of the packaging in a clear area.

3.5 metres is required in front of the
packaging for the ramp and approximately
one metre is required behind the packaging.

Note
The wooden piece slots under the plinth.

• Lower the packaging ramp:

• Fit the handles to the back of the instrument:

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• Carefully wheel the instrument up the ramp

until it sits securely in the base:

• Remove the handles and secure them at the

back of the instrument:

• Put the foam pieces in place:

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• Raise the ramp:

• Fit the outer cover:

• Turn the three fasteners to secure the outer cover

in place:

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• Fit the lid over the outer cover:

• Secure the packaging using two bands through

the palette and over the lid:

After packaging, ensure that the instrument is kept upright at all times while it is being
transported.

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Appendix D - Approved Reagents

All the reagents specified by Thermo Fisher Scientific for use with the Thermo Scientific Excelsior AS tissue
processor are listed below. If you want to use a reagent not included in this list, contact your Thermo agent for
advice.

Do not use Bouin's fixative, acetone, formal saline, or any reagents containing calcium
chloride.
Waxes containing DMSO may damage painted surfaces – in particular if the painted surface
is scratched.
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets when handling the reagents.

Type Approved Reagents

Fixatives • 10% neutral buffered formalin (phosphate buffers)
• Richard-Allan Scientific Pen-Fix
Dehydrants • Ethanol
• Reagent grade alcohol (RGA) / industrial methylated spirit (IMS) – up to 5%
methanol in ethanol
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Richard-Allan Scientific Flex 100 (up to 40% methanol in isopropyl alcohol)
Clearants • Xylene
• Toluene
• Shandon Xylene Substitute
• Richard-Allan Scientific Clear-Rite 3
Infiltrants • Shandon Histoplast
• Shandon Precision Cut
• Richard-Allan Scientific Histoplast PE
• Richard-Allan Scientific Histoplast LP
• RA Lamb VA5
• Richard-Allan Scientific Type 1, Type 3, Type 6, Type 9, Type L and Type H
Flush • Any of the named clearants (max 65° C)
• Any of the named dehydrants
• Water
Surface Cleaning • Sodium hypochlorite (10% in water used at ambient temperature)

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Appendix E - Program Examples

The tables in this appendix show the default process and flush programs installed on Excelsior AS. They have all
been validated.

Routine Overnight
Step Reagent Temp (°C) Time (hh:mm) Vac Drain time (sec)
1 10% Formalin Amb. 0:30 Off 30
2 10% Formalin Amb. 0:30 Off 60
3 75% 30 1:00 On 30
4 90% 30 1:00 On 30
Dehydrant
5 Group 95% 30 1:00 On 30
6 (Alcohol) 100% 30 1:00 On 30
7 100% 30 1:00 On 30
8 100% 30 1:00 On 60
9 30 1:00 On 30
Clearant Group
10 30 1:00 On 30
(Xylene)
11 30 1:00 On 120
12 62 1:20 On 120
Infiltration Group
13 62 1:20 On 120
(Wax)
14 62 1:20 On 120

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Daytime Rapids
Step Reagent Temp (°C) Time (hh:mm) Vac Drain time (sec)
1 10% Formalin Amb. 0:10 Off 30
2 10% Formalin Amb. 0:10 Off 60
3 75% 30 0:10 On 30
4 90% 30 0:10 On 30
5 Dehydrant 95% 30 0:10 On 30
Group
6 (Alcohol) 100% 30 0:10 On 30
7 100% 30 0:10 On 30
8 100% 30 0:10 On 60
9 30 0:10 On 30
Clearant Group
10 30 0:10 On 30
(Xylene)
11 30 0:10 On 120
12 62 0:10 On 120
Infiltration Group
13 62 0:10 On 120
(Wax)
14 62 0:10 On 120

Standard Flush Program

Step Reagent Temp (°C) Time (hh:mm) Vac Drain time (sec)
1 Flush 1 60 0:20 On 30
2 Flush 2 45 0:03 On 30
3 Flush 3 Amb. 0:02 On 30

Extended Flush Program

Step Reagent Temp (°C) Time (hh:mm) Vac Drain time (sec)
1 Flush 1 60 0:30 On 30
2 Flush 2 45 0:05 On 30
3 Flush 3 Amb. 0:02 On 30

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Appendix F - Screen Maps

Main Screen

For more information on the Main Screen menu options, see The Main Screen and Information Bar on page 22.

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Process

For more information on the processing options, see Routine Processing on page 56.

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Flush

For more information on flush options, refer to the following sections:

• Flushing the Instrument on page 71.
• Loading Reagents on page 43.
• Running the Load Sequence on page 44.

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Quality Control

For more information about these menu items, refer to the following sections:
• Quality Control, Filter and Reagent Renewal Limits on page 78.
• Wax Discard and Reagent Rotation Information on page 79.
• Detailed Reagent Information Fields Explained on page 94.

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Options

For more information about these menu items, refer to the following sections:
• The Main Screen and Information Bar on page 22.
• Editing a Program or Flush on page 119.
• Setting the System Time and Date on page 37.
• Using the Fault Status Screen on page 158.
• File Operations on page 132.
• Customer Services on page 141.

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Options – Instrument Setup

For more information about these menu items, refer to the following sections:
• Defining Reagent Names on page 39.
• Setting Reagent Storage Temperatures on page 40.
• Loading Reagents on page 43.
• Customisation and Workflow on page 107.
• Reagent Rotation on page 101.
• Setting Use Limits on page 42.
• Access Code Protection on page 125.
• Audio and Remote Alarms on page 130.
• Language on page 140.
• Unloading Reagents on page 151.
• Concept Demonstration on page 106.
• Setting Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) on page 140.

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Index
Abort .................................................................... 67
Spares and Accessories ................................... 174
Access Codes ...................................................... 125
Types............................................................. 174
Setting ........................................................... 128
Unloading ....................................................... 67
Access Codes Icon .............................................. 156
Battery
Accessories .......................................................... 174
Icon ............................................................... 156
Advanced Operation............................................. 91
Battery Icon ....................................................... 156
Advanced Processing ............................................ 72
Battery Isolation Switch ............................... 35, 150
Changing Delay Settings .................................. 76
Battery Isolation Switch Icon ............................. 156
Changing Delay Step ....................................... 77
Blank Screen ...................................................... 107
Changing End Time ........................................ 74
Cabinet Doors Open Icon ................................. 156
Changing Parameters ....................................... 73
Cassettes
Changing Start Step ......................................... 75
Baskets .......................................................... 174
Process Selection .............................................. 72
Loading ........................................................... 57
Air Extraction Filters ............................................ 29
Changing
Alarms ................................................................ 130
Fill Level.......................................................... 59
Audio ............................................................. 130
Filters ............................................................ 149
Displaying Events .......................................... 130
Instrument Settings ....................................... 107
On Hold Setting ............................................ 107
Language ....................................................... 140
Remote .......................................................... 130
Number of Baskets .......................................... 64
Repeat ............................................................ 130
Program Parameters ......................................... 73
Setting ........................................................... 130
Reagent Names ................................................ 39
Sounds ........................................................... 130
Reagents .............................................. 80, 82, 83
Alcohol Quality Gauge ......................... 87, 101, 104
Rotation Triggers .......................................... 101
Alerts .................................................................. 155
Storage Temperature ....................................... 40
Fault Status Screen ......................................... 158
Workflow Options ........................................ 107
Icons .............................................................. 156
Checks ....................................................... 145, 150
Appendices ......................................................... 173
Cleaning ............................................................ 143
Approved Reagents ............................................. 181
Daily ............................................................. 145
Audio / Remote Alarms Option.......................... 130
Dip Tubes ..................................................... 147
Audio Alarms ..................................................... 130
Display .......................................................... 149
Available Until ................................................... 109
Flush 3 .......................................................... 148
Basic Operation .................................................... 55
Reaction Chamber ........................................... 69
Baskets
Reagent Dip Tubes ........................................ 147
Loading ............................................................ 57

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Reagent Supply Bottles................................... 147 Setting Instrument Id .................................... 107
Safety ............................................................. 144 Shift Start and End ........................................ 107
Spillages ......................................................... 145 Workflow Setup ............................................ 107
Wax Baths...................................................... 146 Customisation Option ....................................... 107
Weekly ........................................................... 145 Daily Cleaning ................................................... 145
Cleaning (Flush) Reagents Date
Approved ....................................................... 181 Format ............................................................ 37
Loading ............................................................ 47 Setting ............................................................. 37
Unloading ...................................................... 151 Daytime Program
Cleaning and Maintenance ................................. 143 Selecting .......................................................... 72
Clearants Setting ........................................................... 109
Approved ....................................................... 181 Starting............................................................ 60
Discarding ....................................................... 95 Default Program
Inspecting ........................................................ 95 Changing....................................................... 109
Loading ............................................................ 50 Day - Night ................................................... 109
Name ............................................................... 39 Setting ........................................................... 109
Renewing ......................................................... 83 Starting............................................................ 60
Requesting Rotation....................................... 104 Dehydrants
Rotating ........................................................... 83 Approved ....................................................... 181
Storage Temperature .................................. 39, 40 Discarding ....................................................... 95
Unloading ...................................................... 151 Inspecting ........................................................ 95
Completing Loading ........................................................... 49
Program ........................................................... 67 Name .............................................................. 39
Concept Demonstration ..................................... 106 Renewing ........................................................ 83
Configure Reagents ........................................ 39, 92 Requesting Rotation ...................................... 104
Connecting Rotating .......................................................... 83
Mains Power .................................................... 31 Storage Temperature ................................. 39, 40
Remote Alarms................................................. 32 Unloading ..................................................... 151
Vent Adapters ................................................ 176 Delay Settings
Customer Text ................................................... 107 Changing................................................... 73, 76
Customisation .................................................... 107 Pressure ..................................................... 76, 77
Adding Customer Text .................................. 107 Temperature .................................................... 76
Enabling Level Key ........................................ 107 Delay Step
On Hold Alarm ............................................. 107 Changing................................................... 73, 77
Option ........................................................... 107 Delayed Start ....................................................... 60
Restart Level .................................................. 107 Detailed Information Option ............................... 94

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Excelsior AS Operator Guide Issue 5

Dip Tubes Access Codes ................................................. 126

Cleaning ........................................................ 147 Audio and Remote Alarms ............................. 130
Colour-Coding ................................................ 43 Level Key ....................................................... 107
Disabling End Time ............................................................ 73
Level Key ....................................................... 107 Changing......................................................... 74
Discard Wax Preferred ........................................................ 109
Acknowledging ................................................ 83 Environment........................................................ 19
Postponing ....................................................... 86 Environmental Specification ................................ 19
Requesting ..................................................... 104 Excelsior AS
Discarding Advanced Processing........................................ 72
Used Reagents ................................................ 151 Approved Reagents ........................................ 181
Used Wax ...................................................... 146 Cassettes ........................................................ 174
Display Date and Time ................................................ 37
Cleaning ........................................................ 149 Decommissioning .................................... 26, 151
Language .................................................. 35, 140 Electrical Specification ..................................... 18
Locking .......................................................... 149 Environmental Specification ............................ 19
Unlocking ...................................................... 149 Fuses ............................................................... 19
Disposal Help ................................................................ 21
Batteries ............................................................. 4 Intended Use ................................................... 16
Downdraft Extraction Vent Adapter ................... 176 Interface Connections ...................................... 18
Downdraft Filter Levelling .......................................................... 27
Fitting .............................................................. 30 Mechanical Specification ................................. 18
Replacing ....................................................... 149 Menus ........................................................... 184
Use Limits........................................................ 42 Moving............................................................ 26
Drain Overview ......................................................... 16
Levels ............................................................... 68 Positioning ...................................................... 27
Reaction Chamber ........................................... 68 Purpose ........................................................... 16
Stopping a Program ......................................... 66 Routine Processing .......................................... 56
Drain Time Setup ............................................................... 35
Setting and Changing..................................... 123 Shutdown ...................................................... 150
Viewing.......................................................... 112 Specifications ................................................... 18
Ducting .............................................................. 176 Startup ............................................................ 35
Edit Program Option ......................... 112, 116, 119 Touch Screen ................................................ 149
Electrical Safety ...................................................... 4 Unpacking ....................................................... 26
Electrical Specifications ........................................ 18 Extraction Vent Adapter .................................... 176
Enabling FAQs ................................................................. 162

192
 Appendices
Fault Status Screen ....................................... 61, 158 Name .............................................................. 39
File Operations ................................................... 132 Replacing......................................................... 80
Load Programs ............................................... 134 Unloading ..................................................... 151
Save Programs ................................................ 133 Use Limit ........................................................ 42
Fill Level Fluid Level
Adding Additional Specimens .......................... 64 Draining .......................................................... 68
Draining .......................................................... 68 Level Key ......................................................... 59
Restarting a Program ........................................ 66 Selecting .......................................................... 59
Selecting........................................................... 59 Flush (Cleaning) Reagents
Setting ............................................................. 59 Alerts ............................................................... 82
Starting a Program ........................................... 59 Approved ....................................................... 181
Wax ................................................................. 45 Loading ........................................................... 47
Filters Renewing ........................................................ 82
Air Extraction .................................................. 29 Replacing......................................................... 82
Changing ................................................. 29, 149 Unloading ..................................................... 151
Downdraft ................................................. 29, 30 Flush 1
Fitting .............................................................. 29 Detailed Information ....................................... 94
Instrument Setup ..................................... 29, 176 Discarding ....................................................... 95
Quality Control ............................................... 78 Inspecting ........................................................ 95
Removing ........................................................ 29 Loading ........................................................... 47
Status ............................................................... 92 Renewing ........................................................ 82
Use Limits........................................................ 42 Replacing......................................................... 82
Fitting Unloading ..................................................... 151
Air Extraction Filter ......................................... 29 Use Limit ........................................................ 42
Downdraft Extraction Vent Adapter .............. 176 Flush 2
Downdraft Filter .............................................. 30 Detailed Information ....................................... 94
Extraction Vent Adapter ................................ 176 Discarding ....................................................... 95
Flush Bottles .................................................... 47 Inspecting ........................................................ 95
Waste Wax Tray ...................................... 45, 146 Loading ........................................................... 47
Fixatives Renewing ........................................................ 82
Alerts ............................................................... 80 Replacing......................................................... 82
Approved ....................................................... 181 Unloading ..................................................... 151
Detailed Information ....................................... 94 Use Limit ........................................................ 42
Discarding ....................................................... 95 Flush 3
Inspecting ........................................................ 95 Cleaning ........................................................ 148
Loading ............................................................ 52 Detailed Information ....................................... 94

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Discarding ....................................................... 95 Guided Load Sequence ........................................ 43

Inspecting ........................................................ 95 Hardware Issue Icon .......................................... 156
Loading ............................................................ 47 Heater Reset Switch ..................................... 35, 150
Refilling ......................................................... 148 Help .................................................................... 21
Refitting ......................................................... 148 Immediate Start ................................................... 60
Removing ...................................................... 148 Infiltrant
Renewing ......................................................... 82 Approved Reagents ........................................ 181
Replacing ......................................................... 82 Cleaning ................................................ 146, 151
Unloading ...................................................... 151 Loading ........................................................... 45
Use Limit ......................................................... 42 Name .............................................................. 39
Flush Button ........................................................ 71 Storage Temperature ................................. 39, 40
Flush Reagents Unloading ..................................................... 151
Name ............................................................... 39 Inspect Reagents Option ...................................... 95
Use Limit ......................................................... 42 Inspecting
Flush Steps Reagents .......................................................... 95
Changing ....................................................... 119 Wax................................................................. 95
Viewing.......................................................... 112 Installation ........................................................... 25
Flushes ............................................................... 111 Instrument
Changing ....................................................... 119 Customisation ............................................... 107
Changing Parameters ....................................... 73 Id 107
Creating ......................................................... 116 Malfunctions ................................................. 160
Drain Time .................................................... 123 Menus ........................................................... 184
Editing ........................................................... 119 Positioning ...................................................... 27
Loading .......................................................... 134 Repacking...................................................... 177
Name ............................................................. 119 Setup ......................................................... 27, 35
Saving ............................................................ 133 Troubleshooting ............................................ 160
Step Pressure Setting ...................................... 122 Instrument Id .................................................... 107
Step Time ...................................................... 121 Instrument Setup
Step Usage Temperature ................................ 120 Access Codes ................................................. 125
Viewing.......................................................... 112 Audio / Remote Alarms ................................. 130
Flushing Concept Demonstration ................................ 106
After Processing ............................................... 70 Configure Reagents ......................................... 92
Option ............................................................. 71 Customisation ............................................... 107
Frequently Asked Questions ............................... 162 Initial Setup ..................................................... 27
Fuses ............................................................ 19, 150 Language Select ............................................. 140
General Safety ........................................................ 4 Load Reagents ................................................. 43

194
 Appendices
Reagent Storage Temperature .......................... 40 Flush (Cleaning) Reagents ............................... 47
Reagent Use Limits .......................................... 42 Flushes .......................................................... 134
Rotation Management ................................... 101 Guided Load Sequence .................................... 43
Set Date ........................................................... 37 Programs ....................................................... 134
Set Time .......................................................... 37 Reagents .................................................... 43, 92
Unload Reagents ............................................ 151 Samples ........................................................... 57
Intended Use Statement ....................................... 16 Setup ............................................................. 139
Interface Specimens........................................................ 57
Connections ..................................................... 18 Wax................................................................. 45
Introduction ......................................................... 15 Location .............................................................. 27
Issues .................................................................. 160 Lock .................................................................. 149
Language Mains Power Failure Icon .................................. 156
Changing ....................................................... 140 Mains Power Supply .............................................. 4
Setting ............................................................. 35 Maintenance ...................................................... 143
Language Select Option ...................................... 140 Filters ............................................................ 149
Language Selection ............................................... 35 Fuses ............................................................. 150
Legal Information ................................................... 3 Regular Checks .............................................. 150
Level Maintenance Contract ........................................... 4
Disabling ....................................................... 107 Malfunctions ..................................................... 160
Enabling ........................................................ 107 Mechanical Specifications .................................... 18
Using ............................................................... 59 Menus ............................................................... 184
Levelling Instrument ............................................ 27 Monitoring
Lid Process............................................................. 62
Checks ........................................................... 150 Status .............................................................. 62
Lid Release ................................................. 64, 67 Moving ................................................................ 26
Load Programs Option ....................................... 134 Next Day ............................................................. 74
Load Reagents ...................................................... 92 No Delay ............................................................. 74
Load Reagents Option .......................................... 43 On Hold Alarm ................................................. 107
Load Setup Option ............................................. 139 Options
Loaded ................................................................. 94 Configure Reagents ................................... 39, 92
Loading Customisation ............................................... 107
Baskets ............................................................. 57 Edit Program ................................................. 111
Cassettes .......................................................... 57 Faults ............................................................ 158
Clearants .......................................................... 50 Instrument Setup........................................... 107
Dehydrants ...................................................... 49 Language Select ............................................. 140
Fixatives ........................................................... 52 Load Reagents ................................................. 43

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Reagent Storage Temperature .................... 39, 40 Status .............................................................. 62

Unload Reagents ............................................ 151 Stopping .......................................................... 66
Overnight Program Program Examples ............................................. 182
Setting ........................................................... 109 Program Step Parameters ................................... 111
Starting ............................................................ 60 Drain Time ................................................... 123
Overview .............................................................. 16 Pressure Setting ............................................. 122
Packaging ............................................................. 26 Program Name .............................................. 119
Positioning ........................................................... 27 Setting and Changing .................................... 120
Postponing Step Time ...................................................... 121
Rotation ........................................................... 86 Usage Temperature ....................................... 120
Wax Discard .................................................... 86 Program Steps
Power ................................................................... 31 Changing....................................................... 120
Preferred End Time ............................................ 109 Disabling ....................................................... 119
Previous Day ........................................................ 74 Monitoring ...................................................... 62
Problems Viewing ......................................................... 112
Instrument ..................................................... 160 Programs
Processing .............................................. 160, 161 Aborting .......................................................... 67
Troubleshooting............................................. 155 Available Until .............................................. 109
Process Status ....................................................... 62 Changing Parameters ....................................... 73
Processing Changing Step Parameters ............................. 120
Aborting .......................................................... 67 Completing ..................................................... 67
Advanced ......................................................... 72 Creating ........................................................ 116
Changing Parameters ....................................... 73 Drain Time ................................................... 123
Completing ...................................................... 67 Editing .......................................................... 119
Draining .......................................................... 66 Level Key ......................................................... 59
Failing to Start ................................................. 61 Loading ......................................................... 134
Instrument Faults ............................................. 61 Name ............................................................ 119
Level Key ......................................................... 59 Parameters ..................................................... 120
Monitoring ...................................................... 62 Preferred End Time ....................................... 109
Problems ................................................ 160, 161 Restarting ........................................................ 66
Quality Control Checks ................................... 61 Saving............................................................ 133
Refilling ........................................................... 66 Selecting .......................................................... 72
Restarting ......................................................... 66 Setting Daytime ............................................ 109
Routine ............................................................ 56 Setting Default .............................................. 109
Selecting........................................................... 72 Setting Overnight .......................................... 109
Starting ............................................................ 60 Start Type ..................................................... 124

196
 Appendices
Starting ............................................................ 60 Approved ....................................................... 181
Status ............................................................... 62 Configuring ..................................................... 92
Step Pressure Setting ...................................... 122 Detailed Information ....................................... 94
Step Time ...................................................... 121 Discarding ....................................................... 95
Step Usage Temperature ................................ 120 Guided Load Sequence .................................... 43
Stopping .......................................................... 66 Inspecting ........................................................ 95
Viewing.......................................................... 112 Loading ............................. 43, 47, 49, 50, 52, 92
Purpose ................................................................ 16 Loading Wax ................................................... 45
Push-to-Test Switch ........................................... 150 Renewing ...................................... 78, 80, 82, 83
Quality Control Requesting Rotation ...................................... 104
Detailed Information ....................................... 94 Safety Information ............................................. 4
Fixatives ........................................................... 80 Storage Temperature ....................................... 40
Flush Reagents ................................................. 82 Symbols ............................................................. 7
Inspecting Reagents.......................................... 95 Unloading ..................................................... 151
Process Start ..................................................... 61 Refill .................................................................... 66
Reports ............................................................ 99 Refill and Restart ................................................. 64
Quality Control Alert Icon ................................. 156 Refilling
Quality Control Screen......................................... 61 Flush 3 .......................................................... 148
Reaction Chamber Regular Maintenance Checks ............................. 150
Cleaning .................................................... 67, 69 Remote Alarm Icon............................................ 156
Draining .......................................................... 68 Remote Alarms
Flushing ............................................... 67, 70, 71 Connecting...................................................... 32
Reaction Chamber Heater Trip Icon .................. 156 Overview ....................................................... 130
Reagent Using............................................................. 130
Dip Tubes ...................................................... 147 Removing
Reagent Names..................................................... 39 Flush 3 .......................................................... 148
Reagent Rotation .................................................. 87 Renewing
Reagent Storage Area Fixatives .......................................................... 80
Checks ........................................................... 150 Flush 1 ............................................................ 82
Spillages ......................................................... 145 Flush 2 ............................................................ 82
Reagent Storage Temperature ......................... 39, 40 Flush 3 ............................................................ 82
Reagent Supply Bottles Flush Reagents................................................. 82
Cleaning ........................................................ 147 Repacking .......................................................... 177
Reagent Usage Replacement Parts.................................................. 4
Reports ............................................................ 99 Replacing
Reagents Clearants ......................................................... 83

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Dehydrants ...................................................... 83 Programs ....................................................... 133

Filters ............................................................. 149 Setup ............................................................. 139
Fixatives ........................................................... 80 Screen
Flush Reagents ................................................. 82 Cleaning ........................................................ 149
Fuses .............................................................. 150 Locking and Unlocking ................................. 149
Infiltrants ......................................................... 83 Screen Map ........................................................ 184
Reports ................................................................. 99 Screensaver ........................................................ 107
Reports Option .................................................... 99 Selecting
Restart .................................................................. 64 Flush ............................................................... 71
Restart Level ....................................................... 107 Process............................................................. 72
Restart Process ...................................................... 66 Program .......................................................... 72
Restart Program.................................................... 66 Workflow Options ........................................ 109
Restore Defaults ................................................... 73 Service Contracts ................................................... 4
RoHS Directive ...................................................... 4 Set Access Codes Option ................... 125, 126, 128
Rotated................................................................. 94 Set Date Option .................................................. 37
Rotation ....................................................... 87, 101 Set Time Option.................................................. 37
Management .................................................. 101 Setting
Postponing ....................................................... 86 Access Codes ................................................. 128
Reagents ..................................................... 83, 87 Advanced Processing Options .......................... 73
Requesting ..................................................... 104 Customisation Options ................................. 107
Wax ................................................................. 83 Date ................................................................ 37
Rotation Management Option ........................... 101 Daytime Program .......................................... 109
Safety Default Program ............................................ 109
Cleaning ........................................................ 144 Fill Level.......................................................... 59
Information ....................................................... 4 Fluid Level ...................................................... 59
Samples Flush Parameters ................................... 111, 119
Adding Additional ........................................... 64 Language ................................................. 35, 140
Advanced Processing ........................................ 72 On Hold Alarm ............................................. 107
Loading ............................................................ 57 Overnight Program........................................ 109
Processing Problems ............................... 160, 161 Preferred End Time ....................................... 109
Routine Processing ........................................... 56 Program Parameters ............................... 111, 119
Unloading ........................................................ 67 Reagent Names ................................................ 39
Save Programs Option ........................................ 133 Rotation Triggers .......................................... 101
Save Setup Option.............................................. 139 Shift Times .................................................... 107
Saving Storage Temperature ....................................... 40
Flushes ........................................................... 133 Time ............................................................... 37

198
 Appendices
Workflow Options ......................................... 109 Viewing ......................................................... 112
Working Week............................................... 109 Steps
Setup .................................................................... 25 Disabling ....................................................... 119
Access Codes .................................................. 125 Monitoring ...................................................... 62
Alarms............................................................ 130 Viewing ......................................................... 112
Date ................................................................. 37 Stop Button ......................................................... 66
Flushes ........................................................... 111 Stopping
Instrument ............................................... 35, 107 Program .......................................................... 66
Loading Reagents ............................................. 43 Storage Temperature
Programs ........................................................ 111 Changing......................................................... 40
Time ................................................................ 37 Setting ............................................................. 40
Workflow ....................................................... 109 Storage Temperatures .......................................... 39
Shift End ............................................................ 107 Supply Bottle
Shift Patterns ...................................................... 107 Dip Tubes ..................................................... 147
Shift Start ........................................................... 107 Symbols ................................................................. 7
Shutdown Procedure .......................................... 150 System Specifications ........................................... 18
Spares ................................................................. 174 Time
Specifications........................................................ 18 12 or 24........................................................... 37
Specimens End ................................................................. 74
Adding Additional ........................................... 64 Left .................................................................. 62
Advanced Processing ........................................ 72 Preferred End ................................................ 109
Loading ............................................................ 57 Remaining ....................................................... 62
Processing Problems ............................... 160, 161 Setting ............................................................. 37
Routine Processing ........................................... 56 Start .......................................................... 60, 62
Unloading ........................................................ 67 Step ....................................................... 112, 121
Spillages ............................................................. 145 Time Left............................................................. 62
Start Process Options ......................................... 109 Total Use ............................................................. 94
Start Step Touch Screen
Changing ......................................................... 75 Cleaning ........................................................ 149
Starting Locking ......................................................... 149
Excelsior AS ..................................................... 35 Unlocking ..................................................... 149
Flushes ............................................................. 71 Troubleshooting ................................................ 155
Programs .......................................................... 60 Alert Icons ..................................................... 158
Status ................................................................... 62 Fault Status Screen ........................................ 158
Step Time Frequently Asked Questions .......................... 162
Setting and Changing..................................... 121 Instrument Malfunctions ............................... 160

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Processing Problems ............................... 160, 161 Warnings ........................................................... 4, 7

Unload Reagents Option .................................... 151 Waste Wax Tray .......................................... 45, 146
Unloading Wax
Flush Reagents ............................................... 151 Detailed Information ....................................... 94
Reagents ......................................................... 151 Discard ............................................................ 83
Samples ............................................................ 67 Discarding ....................................................... 95
Specimens ........................................................ 67 Discarding Used ............................................ 146
Wax ............................................................... 151 Inspecting ........................................................ 95
Unlock ............................................................... 149 Loading ........................................................... 45
Unpacking............................................................ 26 Requesting Discard ........................................ 104
Usage Temperature ............................................ 111 Storage Temperature ....................................... 40
Setting and Changing..................................... 120 Unloading ..................................................... 151
Viewing.......................................................... 112 Waste ............................................................ 146
Use Count ............................................................ 94 Waste Wax Tray .............................................. 45
Use Limit ............................................................. 94 Wax Bath 3
Use Limits ............................................................ 42 Cleaning ........................................................ 146
Used Wax Wax Baths
Discarding ..................................................... 146 Checks........................................................... 150
User Interface Cleaning ........................................................ 146
Help................................................................. 21 Heaters ............................................................ 45
Vacuum Setting .................................................. 111 Loading ........................................................... 45
Delay Step........................................................ 76 Used Wax ...................................................... 146
Flush Step ...................................................... 112 Waste Wax Tray ...................................... 45, 146
Program Step ................................................. 112 Wax Storage Temperature.................................... 40
Setting and Changing..................................... 122 WEEE Directive .................................................... 4
Viewing.......................................................... 112 Weekly Cleaning................................................ 145
Vent Adapters..................................................... 174 Workflow Setup Option ............................ 107, 109
Downdraft Extraction Vent Adapter .............. 176 Working Week .................................................. 109
Extraction Vent Adapter ................................ 176 Xylene-free Processing........................................ 111

200
Appendices

201