A biomed engineer at a hospital in south Florida encountered a significant issue with an inverter that had previously had its fans replaced due to a malfunction. Unfortunately, during the replacement, the HV connector from the inverter to the HV multiplier was damaged, requiring tape to hold the locking ring together. One of our expert technicians advised the onsite engineer not to use the scanner until the inverter could be replaced to prevent potential irreparable damage to both the inverter and the HV multiplier.
The Request for Onsite Service
Recognizing the urgency, the engineer requested onsite service, prompting us to dispatch one of our engineers. Prior to our engineer’s visit, the customer also reported encountering image artifacts, including multiple rings on their scans. Even though the initial repair request was solely for the fan and HV connector issues, our commitment to excellent service led us to assist further by troubleshooting these new artifacts.
Unraveling the Artifacts Mystery
During our troubleshooting, we aimed to replicate the reported ring artifacts but instead discovered a new type of issue: streaks emanating from outside the field of view in various orientations. This unexpected finding required a detailed analysis.
We thoroughly checked potential sources of the problem, including objects in the X-ray path, the collimator, and the DAS. The most probable causes were identified as the GCIFA or GCIFA-D2 boards. Our engineer proposed ordering these boards for further testing.
To ensure the system was operating correctly, we scanned the TOS phantom, which confirmed that the scanner performed to OEM specifications, validating the proper operation of the scanner despite the artifacts issue.
Highlights and Takeaways
Technical Support: We provided essential tech support to diagnose the issue stemming from the customer’s installation. Our engineering expertise was crucial in pinpointing the problem with the damaged HV connector.
Onsite Service: Our engineer performed onsite service to address the immediate repair needs and confirm the scanner was performing to OEM specifications.
Extended Troubleshooting: Beyond our initial repair scope, our engineer continued to investigate the image artifacts, demonstrating our dedication to resolving complex issues even when they fall outside the primary service request.
This case highlights the multi-faceted approach we take in addressing technical issues, from immediate repairs to thorough troubleshooting and extended support. At Richardson Healthcare, our goal is to ensure that our clients receive not only prompt service but also a comprehensive solution to their challenges.
Contact our sales team at healthcare@rell.com or 704-739-3597 to learn more about how we can support your organization.
