OsmoTECH®

Single-Sample
Micro-Osmometer
User Guide

135005EN Rev 3
 

Copyright and trademarks

© 2020 Advanced Instruments

This user guide is copyrighted by Advanced Instruments with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not
be reproduced in any form, in whole or part, without the prior written consent of Advanced Instruments. The following are
trademarks of Advanced Instruments:

• OsmoTECH®
• Hot-Line™
• Protinol™
• Clinitrol™

Employees of Advanced Instruments have reviewed this guide thoroughly. Although material contained within is believed
reliable, the accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed or warranted, and are not intended to be representations or
warranties concerning the product described. Screenshots and images included in this manual are for purposes of example
only and may not be an exact match with the screens you see.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 2

Contents

Contacting Advanced Instruments...............................5 3.6 Changing hardware options.........................................................28

Changing the audio click tone................................................28
Supplies, standards and controls..................................6 Changing the screen brightness.............................................28
Quality control................................................................... 7 Turning on the barcode scanner.............................................28

3.7 Changing the probe resistance...................................................28

Safe use...............................................................................9
3.8 Establishing control limits.............................................................29
Foreword........................................................................... 12 Editing a control...........................................................................29

Chapter 1: Installation and setup................................ 16 Deleting a control.........................................................................29

Displaying a Control Monitoring chart.................................29
1.1 Selecting a location for the instrument....................................16
Setting up warnings for a control......................................... 30
1.2 Unpacking the shipment................................................................16
3.9 Setting up networking communications................................ 30
1.3 OsmoTECH components................................................................ 17 Configuring a LAN connection.............................................. 30
1.4 Connecting to the printer (optional)......................................... 17 Setting up OPC-UA communication.................................... 30

1.5 Placing a test kit on the instrument........................................... 17 Enabling the web server.............................................................31
Connecting to a LIS......................................................................31
1.6 Connecting to a network (optional).......................................... 17
Send-results mode.......................................................................32
1.7 Powering up the instrument.........................................................18
3.10 Updating the instrument...............................................................32
1.8 Configuring the OsmoTECH settings........................................19
3.11 Managing your data........................................................................32
Chapter 2: User interface............................................. 20 Exporting data...............................................................................32
To backup the database............................................................33
2.9 Touchscreen.......................................................................................20
To maintain the database (administrators only)..............33
2.10 Common screen elements............................................................20
To import a results and user data (administrators only).. 33
2.11 Home screen....................................................................................... 21 To export a single result ...........................................................33
Getting system information....................................................... 21
3.12 Assigning user restrictions...........................................................34
Viewing error messages............................................................. 21
Understanding the status icons............................................... 21
Configuring calibration access and optional calibration.
34
2.12 Main menu........................................................................................... 22 Changing password settings....................................................34
2.13 User interface icons.........................................................................23 Requiring IDs for testing............................................................35
Adding or restricting comments............................................35
Chapter 3: Configuring settings................................. 24 Requiring reasons for all changes ........................................35
3.1 The Settings screen.........................................................................24 Setting timeouts...........................................................................35
Logging in from the Settings screen....................................24
Chapter 4: Testing samples......................................... 36
3.2 Setting the date and time.............................................................25
4.1 Daily procedure.................................................................................36
Synchronizing to a network time server.............................25
Entering the date and time manually...................................26 4.2 Sample preparation......................................................................... 37

3.3 Changing the language..................................................................26 4.3 Best practices.................................................................................... 37

To change the language............................................................26 4.4 Preparing the OsmoTECH for testing...................................... 37
3.4 Setting up user accounts..............................................................26 4.5 Testing procedure............................................................................38
Adding a user................................................................................. 27 Logging in and entering a sample ID...................................38
Editing a user................................................................................. 27 Testing a sample...........................................................................38
Deleting a user.............................................................................. 27 Preparing the instrument for the next test........................ 40
3.5 Connecting to an LDAP server................................................... 27 4.6 Repeatability tips..............................................................................41

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 3

 

Chapter 5: Calibration.................................................. 42 Appendix A: Product specifications..........................57

5.1 Factory calibration...........................................................................42 Appendix B: Performance characteristics................58
5.2 When to recalibrate.........................................................................42
Appendix C: Known limitations.................................. 59
5.3 Calibration procedure.....................................................................42
Appendix D: Regulatory notices................................ 60
5.4 Canceling calibration..................................................................... 44
Canceling the test in progress................................................ 44 Appendix E: Supplemental Network information.. 62
Canceling the entire calibration............................................. 44 Setting up OPC-UA......................................................................62
5.5 Calibration errors............................................................................. 44 Configuring the LAN connection...........................................62
Setting up LIS communications..............................................62
Chapter 6: Results......................................................... 45
6.1 Working with results.......................................................................45
Appendix F: Product disposal and recycling.......... 63

6.2 Sorting the results list.....................................................................45 Appendix G: Warranty and warranty duties............ 64
6.3 Filtering the results list...................................................................45

6.4 Exporting the results......................................................................46

6.5 Applying an action to results......................................................46

6.6 Adding Comments...........................................................................46

Chapter 7: Diagnostics..................................................47
7.1 Accessing the Diagnostics menu...............................................47

7.2 A/D........................................................................................................47

7.3 Consumables......................................................................................48

7.4 Sample probe....................................................................................48

7.5 Barcode................................................................................................49

7.6 Events...................................................................................................49

7.7 Printer...................................................................................................49

7.8 LCD....................................................................................................... 50

7.9 Solenoid.............................................................................................. 50

Chapter 8: Maintenance and troubleshooting......... 51

8.1 Who should perform service........................................................51
8.2 Issues that require a service technician....................................51

8.3 ESD precautions................................................................................51

8.4 Maintenance....................................................................................... 52
Chamber cleaning........................................................................ 52
Solenoid maintenance................................................................ 52
Fuse replacement.........................................................................53
Sampler plunger wire replacement and verification.......54

8.5 Troubleshooting................................................................................56
General errors................................................................................56
Errors during calibration............................................................56
Errors during testing...................................................................56

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 4

Contacting Advanced Instruments

General inquiries

• US or Canada
• Toll free phone: 800-225-4034 from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern time

• Outside the US or Canada:

• Phone: +1 781-320-9000
• Email: [email protected]
• Web: aicompanies.com

Customer Service/Orders
To order supplies for your OsmoTECH, contact the Customer Service department.

• US or Canada
• Toll free phone: 800-225-4034 from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern time

• Outside the US or Canada:

• Phone: +1 781-320-9000
• Email: [email protected]

Hot-Line™ Technical Service

For any questions or problems related to operation or service, contact the Hot-Line Technical Service department.

• US or Canada
• Toll free phone: 800-225-4034 from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern time;
after normal business hours, follow prompts

• Outside the US or Canada:

• Phone: +1 781-320-9000

• Email: [email protected]

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 5

Supplies, standards and controls

To order supplies, standards, and controls email or call customer service. See Contacting Advanced Instruments.

General supplies Other standards

Item Part #
Item Part #
100 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3LA011
TECH250 test kit (1 box of 250 sampler tips (ten 5-mL ampules)
TECH250
and chamber cleaners, and 1 plunger wire)
200 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA020
Replacement plunger wire 3M0828A (ten 2-mL ampules)

20-μL Ease-Eject™ Sampler 3M0825 400 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA040

(ten 2-mL ampules)
Replacement sample probe 135061R
500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3LA051
OsmoTECH User Guide USB drive 135005UG (ten 5-mL ampules)
OsmoTECH Service Manual 136006EN 900 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3LA091
(ten 5-mL ampules)

1000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA100

Calibration standards (ten 2-mL ampules)
Item Part 1500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3LA151
(ten 5-mL ampules)
0 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA000
(ten 2-mL ampules)

50 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA005 Accessories

(ten 2-mL ampules)
Item Part #
850 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA085
(ten 2-mL ampules) Compatible dot matrix printer and cable 135022
2000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard 3MA200 Printer paper AN2TP5
(ten 2-mL ampules)

IMPORTANT: Advanced Instruments cannot guarantee

Reference solutions and controls the stated instrument performance specifications and
accuracy of test results unless Advanced Instruments
Item
brand consumables are used with the instrument. Use of
Clinitrol™ 290 Reference Solution 3MA029 consumables from manufacturers other than Advanced
(ten 2-mL ampules)
Instruments is not recommended and may adversely
Osmolality Linearity Set (5 levels) 3LA028 affect system calibration, performance, operation, and
(ten 2-mL ampules)
accuracy of test results.
Protinol™ Protein-Based Serum Controls 3MA028
(3 levels) (nine 5-mL vials) Sample tips and cleaners are single-use consumables;
sample cross-contamination can occur if sample tips
and cleaners are re-used.

For information on obtaining these standards and

controls, contact Advanced Instruments. (See
Contacting Advanced Instruments).

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 6

Quality control

This page describes quality control materials recommended by Advanced Instruments for use with the OsmoTECH.
Advanced Instruments recommends that you incorporate these materials into your quality control management system.

Regulatory Guidance We recommend using Clinitrol 290 Reference Solution

and Protinol Protein-Based Serum Controls. Use these
• United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Standard 785:
reference solutions and controls:
Confirm the instrument calibration with a solution such
that the osmolality of the Standard Solution lies within • Daily, prior to testing samples, to verify instrument
50 mOsm/kg of the expected value of the Test operation and confirm calibration
Solution or the center of the expected range of
• After performing a recalibration
osmolality of the Test Solution.1

• European Pharmacopeia (EP) and Japanese Verifying linearity

Pharmacopeia (JP) may also be referenced.2,3
Verify the linearity of the OsmoTECH using the
Osmolality Linearity Set. Use the linearity set:
Calibration standards, reference solutions, and controls
• To verify the linearity and reportable range of the
Advanced Instruments calibration standards, reference
instrument
solutions, and controls consist of stable sodium chloride
solutions of known freezing points which bracket those • After performing a recalibration
of the expected unknowns. These standards are
traceable to the National Institute of Standards and
Technology (formerly the National Bureau of Standards). Strengthen your laboratory’s Quality Control program
by using products made specifically for your
If you use your osmometer to test biological solutions,
osmometer. Use Advanced Instruments reference
you should also test the osmometer using actual solutions and controls to evaluate the performance and
biological solutions or controls formulated to simulate precision of your osmometer:
biological solutions. Contact your Advanced Instruments
• Clinitrol™ 290 Reference Solution: Clinitrol is a true
representative to obtain Protinol Protein-Based Serum
reference designed specifically for osmometers. It
Controls.
provides results that approximate the osmolality of
In addition, Advanced Instruments recommends that you normal serum.
check with your professional associations and regulatory • Protinol™ Protein-Based Osmolality Controls Protinol
bodies for their guidelines, rules, and regulations. Controls are formulated to mimic serum at 240, 280,
and 320 mOsm/kg H2O.
Verifying calibration daily • Osmolality Linearity Set: Helps laboratories easily
Verify the accuracy of the OsmoTECH daily using monitor osmometer performance specifications.
Advanced Instruments reference solutions and controls.
Compare the test results produced by the instrument to
expected values. Recalibrate the instrument if the test
results are outside of the expected ranges. After
recalibrating, re-run the reference solutions and controls
to verify that you obtain the expected results.

1 United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Standard 785 Osmolality and Osmolarity (2009). United States Pharmacopeia.
2 European Pharmacopeia (EP) Standard 7.3, Section 2.2.35 Osmolality (2012). European Pharmacopeia.
3 Japanese Pharmacopeia (JP) Standard XVI, Section 2.47 Osmolarity Determination, Japanese Pharmacopeia

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 7

 Quality control

Interpreting results

Data generated using Advanced Instruments standards and reference solutions may be analyzed according to the accuracy
and precision specifications of the instrument (see Performance characteristics).

Laboratories may choose to employ one, two, or three standard deviations (SD) for accuracy based on what is relevant in
their laboratories. For normally distributed data, approximately 68% of the individual data values will fall within one
standard deviation of the mean, approximately 95% within two standard deviations, and approximately 99.7% within three
standard deviations.

Accuracy (mOsm/kg H2O)

Advanced Instruments Standards
and Reference Solutions Precision 1 SD 2 SD 3 SD

Clinitrol™ 290 Reference Solution Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O 288–292 286–294 284–296

0 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O 0-2 0-4 0-6

50 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O 48–52 46–54 44–56

100 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O 98–102 96–104 94–106

200 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O 198–202 196–204 194–206

400 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O 398–402 396–404 394–406

500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coefficient of variation ≤0.5% 497.5–502.5 495–505 492.5–507.5

850 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coefficient of variation ≤0.5% 845.75–854.25 841.5–858.5 837.25–862.75

900 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coefficient of variation ≤0.5% 895.5–904.5 891–909 886.5–913.5

1000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coefficient of variation ≤0.5% 995–1005 990–1010 985–1015

1500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coefficient of variation ≤1% 1485–1515 1470–1530 1455–1545

2000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coefficient of variation ≤1% 1980–2020 1960–2040 1940–2060

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 8

Safe use

WARNING: To reduce the risk of bodily injury, electric shock, fire, and damage to your instrument, please read and observe
all precautions in this User Guide.

Only operate this product in accordance with the equipment design, operating instructions, and manufacturer
recommendations; to do otherwise may impair the instrument function or create a safety hazard.

Do not attempt to perform electrical work if you are not fully qualified. This manual is not a substitute for electrical
training.

General cautions

• Only power this instrument with the source specified • Route power cords so that they will not be walked on,
on the product electrical ratings label. Refer to the tripped on, or pinched by items placed upon or
installation instructions. against them. Pay particular attention to the plug,
electrical outlet, and the point where the cord exits the
• If the power cord provided is replaced for any reason
product.
or if an alternate cord is used, the cord must be
approved for use in the local country. The power cord • Do not pull on cords and cables; grasp the
must be approved for the product listed operating corresponding connector to unplug it.
voltage and be rated at least 20% greater than the
• Do not install or use this product in any area subject to
volt-ampere (VA) ratings marked on the product’s
extreme short-term temperature variations, or
electrical ratings label. The cord end that connects to
locations that exceed the specified operating
the product must have an IEC 60320 connector.
environment temperatures.
• Plug the product into an approved grounded electrical
• Never use this product in a wet area.
outlet. Exposure to AC voltage could lead to electric
shock, burn or electrocution. Please be aware of any • To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this
exposure of AC voltage in the power cord. product in an explosive atmosphere.

• Do not disable the power cord grounding pin. • Do not install or use the product on an unstable,
non-level work surface.
• If an extension cord or power strip is used, make sure
that the cord or strip is rated for the product, and that • Do not operate this product with the covers removed
the total ampere ratings of all products plugged into or unsecured.
the extension cord or strip do not exceed 80% of the
cord or strip rating limit.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 9

 Safe use

Symbol conventions

The list of symbols below is for reference only. Some symbols shown below might not appear on the instrument or in the
accompanying documentation.

Symbol Description

! This symbol alerts the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions.

This symbol alerts the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosure that may
constitute risk of electric shock to persons.

This symbol alerts the user to the presence of internal components that could be damaged by static electricity.

This symbol alerts users to the presence of biological substances that may pose a threat to the health of living
organisms, primarily that of humans.

This symbol indicates potential puncture hazards; users keep hands clear.

This symbol alerts the user to the presence of a specific component that could be damaged by static electricity.

This symbol indicates the presence of alternating current (AC).

This symbol indicates the presence of a fuse.

This symbol indicates the presence of protective earth ground.

This symbol indicates the power is ON.

This symbol indicates the power is OFF.

Read the manual.

Keep dry.

Do not reuse.

Sufficient for 250 uses.

LOT Lot number.

Manufactured by.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 10

 Safe use

FCC Statement
BIOHAZARDOUS MATERIAL CAUTION
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the WARNING: Handle all biohazardous materials according
equipment. to established good laboratory practices and follow
your institution exposure control plan. Persons handling
This equipment has been tested and found to comply blood and body fluid samples must be trained in
with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to blood-borne hazards and should observe Universal
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to Precautions for Preventing Transmission of Bloodborne
provide reasonable protection against harmful Infections as defined by the Centers for Disease Control
interference when the equipment is operated in a and Prevention (CDC). The Universal Precautions
commercial environment. This equipment generates, guideline provides infection control by treating all
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not blood and body fluids as if known to be infectious. Use
installed and used in accordance with the instruction
personal protective equipment such as gloves, gowns,
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
etc., to prevent exposure. Store biohazardous materials
communications. Operation of this equipment in a
in regulated waste containers and dispose of these
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in
which case the user will be required to correct the materials in a safe and acceptable manner that is in
interference at his own expense. compliance with all country, state and local
requirements.

If a biohazardous material is spilled on or inside the

Industry Canada Statement
equipment, decontaminate the equipment using a 1%
CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly bleach solution, or as outlined by those policies and
approved by the party responsible for compliance could procedures established within your institution.
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this
ATTENTION: Tout changement ou modification non product in an explosive atmosphere.
expressément approuvé par la partie responsable de la
Use caution and appropriate personal protective
conformité pourrait annuler l’autorisation de l’utilisateur
equipment (PPE) if you must put your hands inside the
d’utiliser l’équipement.
osmometer. Placing hands into the opening could result
in skin punctures or other injuries.
This device complies with Industry Canada license-
exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause
interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie

Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de
licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions
suivantes: (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de
brouillage, et (2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter
tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le
brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le
fonctionnement.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 11

Foreword

Intended use point of pure H2O is precisely +0.010 °C. One mole of a
non-dissociating solute (a substance which does not
Advanced Instruments osmometers use the technique of
dissociate into ionic species), such as glucose dissolved
freezing point depression to measure osmolality.
in 1 kilogram (kg) of water, depresses the freezing point
Osmolality is the total solute concentration of an
of the water by 1.858 °C. This change is known as the
aqueous solution. Osmometers measure the number of
freezing point depression constant for water. The
solute particles irrespective of molecular weight or ionic
freezing point depression also depends on the degree of
charge.
dissociation of the solute. If the solute is ionic, each ionic
Osmolality information is useful to the following species depresses the freezing point by 1.858 °C. For
disciplines: example, if one mole of sodium chloride (NaCl) were to
completely dissociate into two ionic species (Na+ and
• Medical research
Cl-) in 1 kg of water, the freezing point would be
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical research and depressed by 3.716 °C. However, dissociation is never
manufacturing complete. Interference between solute molecules
reduces dissociation by a factor called the osmotic
• Academic research
coefficient.
• Industrial applications
In a simple solution (for example, glucose or sodium
NOTE: OsmoTECH is not for patient diagnostic use. chloride in water), the freezing point can be measured
and the unit concentration easily determined from an
Osmolality is a valuable in-process test that provides a
equation or a reference table. However, the equation is
reliable and repeatable value that reflects overall solute
unique for each solute. In a more complex solution, all
content of a solution. Osmolality is a critical indicator
ionized and non-dissociated species contribute to the
used throughout the bioproduction process to assure the
freezing point depression. The concentration of each
highest quality and yield of biologics. It should be a
solute cannot be easily determined.
routine and frequent check to prevent costly loss of
product or suboptimal production and to ensure the Each of the colligative properties has a similar problem.
process is within specification. Though each of the colligative properties changes in
direct proportion to the solute concentration, each
Principles of freezing point depression requires a different mode and unit of measurement.
Osmolality is a common unit of concentration
When a solute is dissolved in a pure solvent, the measurement that relates all the colligative properties to
following changes in the solution’s properties occur: each other, and to other concentration units. Because of
• Freezing point is depressed its universality, most osmometry applications regularly
use osmolality, expressed as “mOsm/kg H2O,” as the
• Boiling point is raised common unit of concentration rather than applying
• Osmotic pressure is increased further conversion factors.

• Vapor pressure is lowered

Instrumentation

Advanced Instruments Osmometers measure the

These are the so-called “colligative” or concentrative
freezing point of an aqueous solution to determine
properties of the solution which, within reasonable limits,
solute concentration. Advanced Instruments
change in direct proportion to the solute concentration
Osmometers utilize high precision thermistors to sense
(the number of particles in solution).
the sample temperature, to control the degree of super
Of the colligative properties, measurement of the cooling and freeze induction, and to measure the
freezing point easily permits the precise determination freezing point of the sample. The thermistor can
of the concentration of an aqueous solution. The freezing determine differences of ±1 mOsm/kg H2O.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 12

 Foreword

Freezing-point thermodynamics

The quickest and most precise way to measure the freezing point of a solution is to supercool it several degrees below its
freezing point and inducing crystallization of the solution via mechanical agitation. The sudden liberation of energy (heat
of fusion) causes the sample temperature to rise toward a plateau temperature, where a liquid/solid equilibrium occurs.
The equilibrium temperature is the freezing point of the solution.

The duration of the liquid/solid equilibrium phase is a function of the speed at which the heat of fusion is liberated versus
the speed at which it is dissipated to the surrounding environment. This ratio can be slowed to prolong the equilibrium
time, giving a distinct plateau measurable to 0.001 °C.

Sensitive thermistor probes monitor the sample temperature and control the thermoelectric cooling element.
Microprocessor control and automated operation minimize imprecision introduced by operator technique.

The standard freezing curve shown below illustrates the temperature of a sample as it progresses through the freezing
cycle and shows the action of the osmometer at each stage of the cycle.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 13

 Foreword

Definitions

Following are key terms relevant to the science of osmolality.

Avogadro’s number
The number of molecules in one mole (gram molecular weight) of a substance. One mole of non-ionic solute (such as
sucrose) dissolved in one kilogram of water will yield Avogadro’s number (6.022 x 1023) of molecules. One mole of
ionic solute dissolved in one kilogram of water will yield almost twice Avogadro’s number of particles.

Colligative properties
The properties of solutions depend on the number of particles in each volume of solvent, not the mass of the particles.
Colligative properties include: vapor pressure, boiling point, freezing point and osmotic pressure (see also
Concentrative Properties).

Concentration
The relative amount of solute in a solution. This can be expressed in many ways: solute to solvent, solute to solution,
mass to mass, mass to volume, etc.

Concentrative properties
When a solute is dissolved in solvent, certain properties of the solvent—freezing point, boiling point, vapor pressure,
and osmotic pressure—are changed nearly in proportion to the concentration of the solute, expressed in dissolved
particles. Avogadro’s number of particles, regardless of their size or shape, when dissolved in a kilogram of water, will
change each of the concentrative properties a specific amount.

Freezing point osmometers

Instruments which measure the osmotic strength of solution by using freezing point depression.

Freezing point depression

The phenomenon where the freezing point of a liquid (a solvent) is depressed when another compound is added,
meaning a solution has a lower freezing point than a pure solvent.

Ionic solution
Certain molecules, when dissolved, dissociate into charged particles called ions. A good example is sodium chloride
(NaCl), which dissociates in solution to sodium ions (Na+) and chlorine (Cl-) ions.

Membrane osmometers
Instruments which measure the osmotic pressure of a solution separated by a semi-permeable membrane.

Molality
Molal concentration – grams of solute per kilogram of solvent.

Molarity
Molar concentration – grams of solute per liter of solution.

Mole
Molecular weight expressed in grams. Each mole contains Avogadro’s number (6.022 x 1023) of molecules. One mole
of sodium chloride weighs 58.44 grams.

Molecular weight
The sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in a molecule.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 14

 Foreword

Non-ionic solution
Certain molecules, when dissolved, do not dissociate or ionize into charged particles. Good examples are glucose and
urea.

Osmol (or Osmole)

The standard unit of osmolality based on a one molal concentration of an ion in a solution.

Osmolality
The number of osmoles of solute per kilogram of solvent (temperature independent).

Osmolality equation
Osmolality is the number of osmoles of solute particles per kilogram of pure solvent. Since most ionic species do not
completely dissociate, osmolality is a unit of concentration, which must take into account the dissociative effect.
Osmolality is usually expressed in mOsm/kg H₂O. One milliosmole (mOsm) is 10-3 osmoles. The osmolality equation is:

Osmolality = ϕnC = osmole / kg H₂O

where:
ϕ = osmotic coefficient, which accounts for the degree of molecular dissociation
n = number of particles into which a molecule can dissociate
C = molal concentration of the solution

Osmolarity
The number of osmoles of solute per liter of solution (temperature dependent).

Osmotic pressure
The hydrostatic pressure produced by a difference in concentration between solutions on two sides of a surface such
as a semi-permeable membrane.

Solutes
The minor components of a solution which is dissolved into the solvent.

Solutions
The homogeneous mixture of solutes in a solvent.

Solvent
The major liquid component of a solution and the substance into which a solute is dissolved.

Vapor pressure osmometers

Instruments which measure the concentration of osmotically active particles which reduce the vapor pressure of the
solution.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 15

 Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Installation and setup

To set up your instrument properly, it is important to read and carefully follow the steps in this section. Also read
Testing samples before attempting to run your instrument.

1.1 Selecting a location for the instrument 1.2 Unpacking the shipment
Select a location for the OsmoTECH based on the The following table lists the items contained in your
following space and electrical requirements. shipment.

Qty Description
OsmoTECH dimensions
1 OsmoTECH Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer
• Not including test kit:
1 20-µL Ease-Eject™ Sampler
15" D x 14" W x 10" H
(38 cm D x 36 cm W x 25 cm H) 1 Power cord

1 User Guide on USB drive

• Including test kit:
15" D x 14" W x 11.5" H NOTE: Advanced Instruments cannot guarantee the
(38 cm D x 36 cm W x 29 cm H) stated instrument performance specifications and
accuracy of test results unless Advanced
Recommended clearance Instruments brand consumables, standards, and
controls are used with the instrument.
Allow 6 inches (15 cm) of clear space on each side of the
• For information on obtaining Advanced Instruments
instrument.
brand items, see Supplies, standards and controls.
Do not block the exhaust fan airflow on the back panel • For information about Advanced Instruments references
or underneath the instrument. and controls, see Quality control.

NOTE: Use of consumables, standards, or controls from

Electrical requirements manufacturers other than Advanced Instruments is
not recommended and may adversely affect
Your instrument must be located within five system calibration, performance, operation, and
feet of a properly grounded, three-prong accuracy of test results.
electrical outlet capable of continuously
supplying 0.5 amperes at 100–240 VAC Carefully unpack the instrument, accessories, and
(50–60 Hz). supplies and inspect them for shipping damage. Use the
enclosed packing list to verify that all items are received.
If the instrument is not grounded properly, its
operation may be impaired and a safety hazard 1. If any item on the packing list appears to be missing
may exist. Verify that the outlet is appropriate from your shipment, please search carefully through
before operating your instrument. and under all packing materials. If you don't find the
item, notify your receiving department immediately.
Do not disable the grounding plug.
Advanced Instruments can only be responsible for
items reported missing within 10 days of a shipment
arrival.

2. Save the shipping boxes and packaging material for

future use if transport of the instrument becomes
necessary.

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 Chapter 1 Installation and setup

3. If you receive any damaged items, save the cartons 1.4 Connecting to the printer (optional)
and packing material for inspection by the insurer.
You can connect an Epson dot matrix printer to the
You must notify both the dealer and Advanced
OsmoTECH (optional). Purchase the printer through
Instruments within 24 hours to ensure that your
Advanced Instruments. See Accessories.
warranty and insurance can be applied. Ask the
transportation company to inspect the items, 1. Refer to the printer’s manual to set up the printer.
complete a “Report of Concealed Damage” and then
NOTE: Make sure you read the safety instructions.
file your claim. Contact Advanced Instruments
immediately for repair or replacement of the items. 2. Connect the printer to a USB port on the OsmoTECH.

3. Power on the printer.

4. Complete the online warranty card to register your
product. You’re ready to print.

1.3 OsmoTECH components 1.5 Placing a test kit on the instrument

The image below identifies the major components of A test kit must be in placed on the instrument before
your osmometer, including: testing can begin.

• Sampler Orient the box so the chamber cleaners are in the front
and the box opens away from you.
• Sampler holder (a convenient resting place for the
sampler when it is not in use)

• Operating cradle An error message appears if the test kit is not in place
when you attempt to run a test. Once you’ve run 250
• Cooling chamber (inside) tests, you must replace the test kit; otherwise, you won’t
• Touchscreen be able to run a test.

• Barcode scanner

• Printer (accessory)

• Micro sample test kit

Micro-Sample Cooling chamber

Test Kit (inside)

Sampler tips Sampler

Chamber
cleaners Sampler holder

Operating
cradle

Touchscreen

Barcode scanner

1.6 Connecting to a network (optional)

To connect the OsmoTECH to a laboratory information
system (LIS), a local area network (LAN), or to enable

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 17

 Chapter 1 Installation and setup

the web server, plug an Ethernet cable that’s connected 1.7 Powering up the instrument
to your network into the Ethernet port on the back of
1. Connect the power cord to the back of the
the OsmoTECH.
instrument (Figure 1) and insert the plug into the
NOTE: You must also configure the communication power outlet.
settings in the OsmoTECH software. For more
information, see Connecting to a LIS and
2. Turn on power to the instrument using the rocker
Configuring a LAN connection.
switch on the back. Depress the side marked with
the | symbol.
USB 2.0
Type A port
When the instrument powers up, the splash screen
USB 2.0 displays.
Type B port
Power switch
Ethernet port Plug for power
cord

3. After a few moments, the OsmoTECH Home screen

displays.

From the Home screen, you can initiate sample

testing and view the results. Initially, the instrument
status shown in the green status banner is
Osmometer Ready.

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 Chapter 1 Installation and setup

1.8 Configuring the OsmoTECH settings 6. If desired, configure the OsmoTECH to communicate
with your laboratory information system (LIS).
This section outlines the instrument settings you should
review and/or configure before using the OsmoTECH. NOTE: For instructions, see Connecting to a LIS.
Each step directs you to the relevant instructions in the
Configuring settings chapter. 7. If desired, configure the OsmoTECH to connect to
your local area network (LAN).
1. From the Home screen, navigate to the Settings NOTE: For instructions, see Configuring a LAN
menu. connection.
NOTE: For instructions, see Configuring settings.
8. If desired, configure the OsmoTECH to connect to an
2. If the instrument language is not set appropriately Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture
for your site, change the language settings. (OPC-UA) client.

NOTE: For instructions, see Changing the language. NOTE: For instructions, see Setting up OPC-UA
communication.
3. If the date or time displayed on the instrument is
9. If desired, set up control limits.
incorrect, set the current date and time.
NOTE: For instructions, see Establishing control
NOTE: For instructions, see Setting the date and
limits.
time.

10. When you have finished configuring the instrument,

4. If desired, set up user accounts.
press the Home button on the Settings menu to
NOTE: User accounts enable you to track which return to the Home screen.
users perform which functions, and allow you
to restrict access to some functions. If you
want to use either of those capabilities, you
Setup for the OsmoTECH is now complete. If you want
must set up user accounts.
to begin testing with the OsmoTECH right away, you
NOTE: For instructions, see Setting up user can skip to Testing samples.
accounts.

5. If desired, perform any or all of the following tasks:

• Assign restrictions for operator-level accounts.

• Set the password expiration period.

• Configure the system to calibrate using only the

default 50 and 850 mOsm/kg H2O calibration
standards, or enable additional calibration using
0 and/or 2000 mOsm/kg calibration standards.

• Configure the system to require a User ID and/or

Sample ID before beginning a test.

NOTE: For instructions, see Assigning user

restrictions.

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Chapter 2: User interface

This section describes elements and icons that appear in 2.10 Common screen elements
the OsmoTECH user interface.
The following table lists elements that appear on many
screens.
2.9 Touchscreen
The OsmoTECH provides a touchscreen on the front Item Description/Use
where you will interact with the instrument. From there, Status indicator:
you can set parameters, enter commands, view data, and • Green: Normal operation
perform other OsmoTECH functions. • Red: System error condition
• Yellow: Test in progress
• Orange: IDs required

Current date and time

Touchscreen Sampler-tip status:

• White: Displays number of

sampler tips remaining in
box (while count is 50 or
higher).

• Yellow: Displays “<50” when

the number of sampler tips
remaining is less than 50.

System tray may contain:

• Legend of status icons

• Assistance contact info and

system info

• Message alert
To use the touchscreen, gently press your selection using • LAN connected
the tip of your finger. Avoid pressing with the flat of your • LAN not connected
finger; the screen is designed to read gentle finger
Press icon to display contents.
pressure.
Press to display the Home
CAUTION: Never use sharp objects, fingernails, pens, screen (not displayed on the
pencils, or anything that would leave a mark on the Home screen)
screen or damage it.

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 Chapter 2 User interface

2.11 Home screen Item Description/Use

The Home screen is the screen from which you perform Press the button to display a
sample testing. keyboard and activate the barcode
scanner; then use the keyboard or
barcode scanner to enter the
sample ID.
The color of the button indicates the
Sample ID status:
Latest test
• Blue: Sample ID is optional.
Enter sample ID
Progress bar • Orange: Sample ID is required.
(See Requiring IDs for testing.)
Warning message Display Main
menu

Example of a warning message

The following table lists interface elements that are

This screen also provides access to system information
specific to the Home screen.
( ), status icon information ( ), error information ( i ),
NOTE: The Home screen goes dim after 10 minutes of and the main menu ( ).
inactivity. If a user was logged in to the Home
screen, the system logs out that user.
Getting system information

Item Description/Use Press to display system information, including

Login button distributor and manufacturing information, software
NOTE: The color of the Login button revisions, LAN and MAC address, system history, serial
indicates the login status: number.
• Gray: No one is logged in.

• Blue: A user is logged in. The Viewing error messages

username displays next to the
icon. If an error occurs, press i to view error information.
To log in: Press the Login button
(gray or orange) to display the user Understanding the status icons
list. Then select your username from
the list and enter your password.
On the Home screen, press to open the LEGEND
To log out: Press the (green) Login screen which describes each status icon.
button.
Icon categories are explained on three tabs—Testing,
LAN/LIS, and Access levels.
Latest test sample osmolality
reading, sample ID, date and time of • Press the Testing tab for information on the following
last test
icons that appear when testing tubes.

Test progress bar

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 Chapter 2 User interface

Item Description 2.12 Main menu

Test count
Test count The Main menu provides a button for each major
Test count is low (less than 50)
function: Calibration, Results, Settings, and Diagnostics.
• Press the LAN/LIS tab for information on the
following icons that indicate the status of an
instrument connected to a local area network (LAN)
or a Laboratory Information System (LIS).

The following table provides an overview of each

function.

Function Description/Use

Item Description Calibration Displays the Calibration screen; see Calibration

for details.
Gray: Disabled
NOTE: The OsmoTECH has been calibrated at
LIS Red: Enabled and disconnected the factory. However, you should recalibrate it in
certain circumstances. See When to recalibrate
Green: Enabled and connected
for more information.
Green: Connected
LAN Results Displays a list of test results; see Results for
Gray: Disconnected details.

Settings Displays the Settings menu for access to

• Press the Access levels tab for information on the
configuration options; see Settings for details.
following icons that indicate the access levels of
instrument users. Diagnostics Displays the Diagnostics menu for access to
system tests and performance data; see
Diagnostics for details.

Item Description
Red: Administrator
Yellow: Supervisors, administrators
Access levels
White: Operators, administrators

Yellow, white: All users

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2.13 User interface icons

The following table lists the user interface icons used on OsmoTECH screens.

Icon Description Icon Description

Keyboard input Select date

USB thumb drive Clear selection

Define filter Clear filter

Top of list End of list

Page up Page down

Move page left Move page right

Go to Home screen

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 Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Configuring settings

3.1 The Settings screen Function Description/Use

Use the Settings screen to customize your instrument. Data • OPC-UA support to easily integrate
Management test results into a data management
The instrument ships with a default Administrator system and/or batch records
account. Use this account to set up your instrument
• Export data to PDF or CSV locally to
using the following functions: USB drive or remotely to a network
folder

Function Description/Use • Database backup to protect your data

Date & Time Set format, date, time • Enable or disable storage of test
results, users, events, and/or controls
Language Set user interface language data on the system
Users Add, edit, delete user accounts • Import/restore results and
configuration data from backup USB
H/W Options Set audio tone and volume; adjust screen drive (Administrator access only)
brightness; adjust barcode scanner
settings System Update Perform system software updates
Probe Resistance Enter/change probe resistances Function access is indicated by key color:
Controls Add, edit, delete, chart, action
- Gold Key: Supervisor
Networking • Configure a local area network (LAN)
- White Key: Operator
connection

• Configure a connection to an Open - Red Key: Administrator (can log in to any screen)
Platform Communications Unified
Architecture (OPC-UA) client
Logging in from the Settings screen
• Enable the embedded web server on
the instrument Each time you select a function, you must log in with
• Configure a connection to a medical your user name and password. If your user name does
Library Information System (LIS) not appear, you may not have access.
Restrictions • Set supervisor-level access NOTE: If user accounts are not configured, log in to
• Set operator-level access Admin.

• Set password expiration period 1. From the Home screen, press > SETTINGS.
• Change calibration points

• Change control information

• Set database export format

• Enable/disable adding comments

• Enable/disable requirement to enter

the User ID and Sample ID for testing

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

2. Press the function that you want to run. 3.2 Setting the date and time
3. Log into your account. Your instrument has a built-in real time clock (RTC) to
keep track of the current date and time.
NOTE: If you enter an incorrect password five times, your
account becomes locked and an administrator or You can use a network time server to synchronize the
supervisor must unlock it. time on your instrument to a network server or you can
Default user accounts set the time locally for each instrument.
• Admin: Reserved for administrative use. If you are
setting up user accounts, use Admin to configure the Synchronizing to a network time server
accounts. (See Setting up user accounts.)
The Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP) synchronizes
• Service: For use by qualified service personnel. the clock to a server that is already synchronized to a
source, such as a radio, satellite receiver, or modem. The
NOTE: If your site does not have user accounts, all
server sends a timestamp in Coordinated Universal Time
operators use the Admin account.
(UTC), and time zone information is needed to set the
NOTE: The default password for the Admin account is correct local time.
password1. You can change the Admin password.
See Editing a user. 1. Press DATE & TIME and login (see Logging in from
the Settings screen).

2. Select the Use Time Server checkbox [A] to

synchronize the instrument time with the server.

3. Enter the SNTP Server Name.

4. Select a Time Zone.

5. Select a date and time format:

• To automatically set the date and time formats

based on the language settings on the instrument,
select Use Regional Format Settings (see Changing
the language).

• Otherwise, change the Date , Year, and Time

formats, and the Delimiter as needed.

6. Press SAVE.

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

Entering the date and time manually 3.3 Changing the language
To enter the date and time manually (without The language is set to English at the factory. You can
synchronizing to a server): change it to one of nine other languages.

1. Press DATE & TIME and login (see Logging in from

the Settings screen). To change the language

1. Press LANGUAGE and log in (see Logging in from

2. Deselect the Use Time Server checkbox if it is
the Settings screen).
selected.

3. Enter the Date.

2. Select a language and press SAVE.
4. Enter the Time.
3. Press Exit to return to the Settings menu.
5. Select a date and time format: NOTE: If the system detects unsaved changes, it
• To automatically set the date and time formats prompts you to save the changes before
based on the language settings on the instrument, exiting.
select Use Regional Format Settings (see Changing
the language). 4. Power off the OsmoTECH and wait 10 seconds; then
power on the instrument.
• Otherwise, change the Date , Year, and Time
formats, and the Delimiter as needed. NOTE: This step is required for the language change
to take affect
6. Press SAVE.
3.4 Setting up user accounts
All users must log in to the instrument to access the
Settings screens regardless of access level.

There are three levels of access:

User account Description

Administrator • Set up and manage accounts

Supervisor • Assign access to features

• Unlock accounts

• Reset passwords
Operator • Use the instrument

NOTE: For more information, see Assigning user

restrictions.

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

Press USERS and log in (see Logging in from the 3.5 Connecting to an LDAP server
Settings screen).
You can connect your instrument to an LDAP server to
enable users to log into any instrument on the network
with their Windows® credentials.

Your IT administrator can set up this feature for you.

NOTE: For more information on LDAP settings, refer to

the OsmoTECH Family Data Management Guide
(p/n CL00122).

1. Connect the OsmoTECH to the network with the

Ethernet connector on the rear of the device.

2. From SETTINGS, press USERS > LDAP.

NOTE: A DISABLE button may appear in place of the

DELETE button depending on how a user is set up
(see Configuring calibration access and optional
calibration).

Adding a user

1. Press ADD.

2. Press next to the ID field, type the ID. Press Enter.

3. Press next to the Password field, type the

password and then retype to verify. Press Enter.
3. Select LDAP Enabled.
4. Select access level.
4. Enter the information provided by your IT
5. Press SAVE. administrator.

Editing a user 5. Enter the group names for the Administrator

Security Group, Supervisor Security Group, and/or
1. From the USERS screen, select a user.
Operator Security Group.
2. Press EDIT.
6. Press TEST to log in to a Windows account in order
3. Change the user password and access level as
to verify the information entered.
needed (see Setting up user accounts).

You cannot edit the user ID.

4. Press SAVE.

Deleting a user

1. From the USERS screen, select a user.

2. Press DELETE or DISABLE to delete/disable a user

(see Configuring calibration access and optional
calibration).

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

3.6 Changing hardware options Turning on the barcode scanner

You can change the instrument’s audio, screen You can enable or disable the barcode scanner and
brightness, and barcode scanner settings. adjust the scanner brightness.

Press H/W OPTIONS and log in to open the H/W To change the barcode scanner settings:
Options screen log in (see Logging in from the Settings
1. Press the Barcode tab.
screen).

2. Press Enable and change the scanner brightness as

Changing the audio click tone needed, or press Disable.
Click tones sound when you press a button on the
3. Press Save.
screen.

To change the click tone and adjust its volume:

3.7 Changing the probe resistance
1. Press the Audio tab.
Do not change the probe resistance setting unless you
are replacing the sample probe or block probe.

NOTE: If you change the sample or block probe

resistance, you must recalibrate the instrument.

1. Press PROBE RESISTANCE.

2. Log into your account.

2. Select a click tone and then a volume to test the

combination.

NOTE: Select OFF to disable click tones.

3. Press Save to save the selected tone and volume.

NOTE: To test/hear the tone that sounds when an error

occurs, press . The error tone/volume cannot 3. Press next to the field you want to change.
be changed.
4. Make your changes and press SAVE.
Changing the screen brightness

To change the brightness of the LCD screen:

1. Press the LCD tab.

2. Move the slider right to increase brightness, or left to

decrease brightness.

3. Press Save to save the selected value.

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

3.8 Establishing control limits Editing a control

You can establish control limits to use with your 1. From the Controls screen, press a control to select it.
instrument.
2. Press EDIT.
1. Press CONTROLS and log in (see Logging in from
the Settings screen).
3. Edit the settings for the selected control and press
SAVE (refer to Establishing control limits).

Deleting a control

1. From the Controls screen, press a control to select it.

2. Press DELETE.

Displaying a Control Monitoring chart

Your instrument can generate Control Monitoring charts

for controls with standard deviation (SD) bands.
2. Press ADD.
1. From the CONTROLS screen, select a control and
press CHART.

Figure 1:

3. Enter the ID or scan it in with the barcode scanner.

4. Press next to the Lot Number field to enter the

2. Press EXPORT to export the chart to a USB drive.
lot number manually.
3. When you have finished viewing (and/or exporting)
5. Press next to the Expiration Date field and select
the chart, press Exit to close the chart and return to
the expiration date.
the Controls screen.
NOTE: Expiration dates on Advanced Instruments
controls include the month and year. The
system requires the day. Use the last day of
the month as the expiration day.

6. Enter the nominal value and standard deviation

range.

The system populates the nominal value and the

standard deviation range for Advanced Instruments
controls.

7. Press SAVE.

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

Setting up warnings for a control 4. Select one of the following network protocols:

Administrators and supervisors can configure the system • Static IP (recommended for best results):
to issue a warning or stop the entire test run if a sample Assigning an unchanging static IP address to the
result is outside the control limits. instrument makes it easier for other devices to
contact the instrument over the network.
NOTE: This works only if you use Sample IDs during
testing. a. Press and enter the IP Address.
1. From the CONTROLS screen, press ACTION > Issue b. Press and enter the Subnet Mask.
Warning.
c. Press and enter the Default Gateway.
2. Select the range limit for action (1SD, 2SD, 3SD). • DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): A
DHCP server dynamically assigns an IP address and
3. Press SAVE. other network parameters to the instrument.
The system issues a warning if a sample result falls
outside the range limit. The IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway
are entered automatically, and can change each
time the instrument connects to the network.
3.9 Setting up networking communications
Your IT administrator can help you set up your 5. Enter the host name (up to 32 characters)—
instrument to connect to a network in order to send especially if more than one OsmoTECH is connected
data, back up files, or use a network time server. to the network.

6. Press Save.
Configuring a LAN connection

The instrument can connect to a computer or other Setting up OPC-UA communication

devices over a local area network (LAN).
NOTE: For more information about OPC UA settings,
1. Plug an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet connector. refer to the OsmoTECH Family Data Management
Guide (p/n CL00122).
2. Press NETWORKING and log in (see Logging in from
the Settings screen). 1. Press NETWORKING and log in (see Logging in from
the Settings screen).
3. Press the LAN tab.
2. Press OPC-UA.

3. Press Enable.

4. Enter the server port, device name, and minimum

sample interval (in msec).

5. Press SAVE.

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

Enabling the web server Connecting to a LIS

Use the embedded web server to view and print The LIS status icon [B] indicates connection status. See
information—such as results, status, and data logs—from Understanding the status icons.
a network computer or mobile device.
1. Press the LIS tab.
1. Connect the instrument to the network using an
Ethernet cable. 2. Log into your account.

2. Press NETWORKING and log in (see Logging in from

3. Press the LIS Enabled checkbox [C].
the Settings screen).
B
3. Press the WEB SERVER tab.

4. Press next to Server IP Address and enter the IP

address.
4. Select Web Server Enabled.

5. Press to change the number of records (5 - 1000) 5. Press next to Server Port and enter the port
to display and press SAVE. number.

6. Power off the instrument and wait 15 seconds. 6. Press PING to test the server connection.

• Successful connection: PING icon turns from green

7. Power on the instrument. to gray.

8. Press and select LAN to display the web server IP • Unsuccessful connection: PING icon is red.
address.
7. Select other settings for your lab and press SAVE.
9. Enter the IP address into the address bar of any web • Mode: Client or Server
browser to display, save, and print the data.
• Send Results: See Send-results mode

• LIS Mode: Bidirectional or Unidirectional

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

Send-results mode 3.11 Managing your data

You can configure the system to send results to the LIS You can export data from the Results, Events, Users,
system using one of these modes: and Controls databases:

• In automatic mode, the system sends results • to a .csv or .pdf file

immediately after each test. If the communication link
• to a USB drive or to a network folder
becomes disconnected, the results store as LIS
Pending, indicated by a number in the LIS indicator • automatically or manually for data backups
circle. When the link is restored, the data is sent, and
You can also clear data from one or more databases,
the indicator number goes to 0.
and export a single result record to a network folder.
• In manual mode, the system accumulates test results
in the results database until a user sends it to the LIS
Exporting data
from the Results screen.
You can export data to a USB drive or to a network
folders. You can also schedule automatic backups, or
3.10 Updating the instrument export a single result record to a network folder.
If a system update is needed, Advanced Instruments will
1. From the DATA MANAGEMENT screen, press
send you a USB drive with the software update.
EXPORT.
To update the system from the Settings screen:

1. Select SYSTEM UPDATE and log in (see Logging in

from the Settings screen).

2. Log into your account.

2. Insert the USB drive with the updated software into 3. Select the Data EXPORT Enabled checkbox.
a USB port.
4. Select the format for the exported data file.
3. Follow the instructions provided with your update.
5. Select the location of the exported data.
4. Press START.
• To save the data to a USB drive, select USB and
Wait for the system to complete the update. insert a USB drive into the instrument’s USB port.

• To save the data to a network folder:

5. Power off the instrument and wait 15 seconds.
a. Select Network.
6. Power on the instrument.
b. Press FOLDER.

c. Enter the network folder information.

d. Select the Require LOGIN for EXPORT

checkbox to require users to login before
exporting data.

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

6. Press SAVE. To import a results and user data (administrators only)

NOTE: For more information on exporting data to a Use the import feature to import/restore results records
network folder, refer to the OsmoTECH Family and/or configuration records (events, controls, users)
Data Management Guide (p/n CL00122). from a USB drive.

1. Insert a USB drive containing a results and/or

To backup the database
configuration database file (.db).
1. From the DATA MANAGEMENT screen, press
DATABASE BACKUP. 2. Press the IMPORT tab.

2. Select the data file format and location for the

exported data.

NOTE: For more information, refer to the OsmoTECH

Product Family Data Management Guide (p/n
CL00122).

To maintain the database (administrators only)

The Database Maintenance tab is only available to

administrator-level users

1. From the DATA MANAGEMENT screen, press

DATABASE MAINTENANCE. 3. Press IMPORT .DB.

The data is imported into the system.

2. Select the data to clear (results, users, events, and/
NOTE: For more information on importing data, refer to
or controls).
the OsmoTECH Family Data Management Guide
(p/n CL00122).
3. Select the Stop Recording checkbox to stop saving
records to the Results database.
To export a single result

Use the single result export feature to export a PDF

containing a result record to a connected network
folder selected by the user.

1. Select the Single Result PDF Export Enabled

option.

2. Press FOLDER.

3. Enter the network folder information.

NOTE: For more information on single result PDF

exports, refer to the OsmoTECH Family Data
Management Guide (p/n CL00122).

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 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

3.12 Assigning user restrictions Configuring calibration access and optional calibration

Administrators can set which features supervisors and Administrators and supervisors can configure which
operators can access before or after adding users to operator-level users can perform calibrations, and can
the instrument. also enable optional 0 and/or 2000 mOsm calibrations.

Features include networking, calibration, control 1. Click on the Calibration tab.

information, data management, changing probe
resistance, date and time, system updating, and 2. Select the Calibrate checkbox if you want operators
changing user accounts. to be able to perform that function.

1. Press SETTINGS > RESTRICTIONS. 3. Select one or both of the optional 0 and 2000
mOsm calibration points.
2. Log into your account.

3. Press SUPERVISOR ACCESS to select features

supervisors can access.

Changing password settings

Users can change the password strength requirements

for user passwords, such as:
4. Select OPERATOR ACCESS to select features
operators can access. • Required length (number of characters)

• Minimum number of lower case characters

• Minimum number of UPPER case characters

• Minimum number numeric characters.

• Minimum number of special characters (#, ~, !, etc.)

1. Press SETTINGS > RESTRICTIONS > PASSWORDS.

5. Press SAVE.

2. Set passwords to expire at 30 days, 60 days,

90 days, 180 days, or never.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 34

 Chapter 3 Configuring settings

3. Select the Pre-expire passwords on creation Adding or restricting comments

checkbox to make users change their password the
The system includes a feature to add comments to
first time they log in.
results database records. This feature is disabled by
default.
4. Select the Allow deletion of users checkbox to
delete user information when a user is removed 1. Press RESTRICTIONS > COMMENTS.
from the active list.
2. Select users who can add comments:
5. Select the password strength options.
• None (comments not supported)

6. Press SAVE. • Supervisors Only

• All Users
Requiring IDs for testing
NOTE: To add a comment (when enabled), press
By default, the system does not require users to enter RESULTS from the main menu, press and hold the
the user ID or sample ID before testing. description of a result record. Then login and type
the comment and press Enter.
1. Press RESTRICTIONS > TESTING.

Requiring reasons for all changes

You can require users to document the reason they are

changing settings. Settings changes and comments are
stored in the events database.

1. Press SETTINGS > RESTRICTIONS > COMMENTS

2. Press Require Reason for all changes in Settings.

Setting timeouts

You can set the instrument to logout after a set time of

2. Select User ID to require users to enter an ID before inactivity. You can also set the screen to dim after a
testing. specified time.

3. Select the Enable Administrators access to perform 1. Press SETTINGS > RESTRICTIONS > TIMEOUTS.
testing to allow all administrator-level users to
perform tests and calibration. 2. Select an Automatic logout time and Screen
dimming time.
4. Select Sample ID to require users to enter an ID
before testing. • 3 minutes

• 5 minutes
5. Select 0 mOsm to enable 0 mOsm/kg H2O
Automatic logout time • 10 minutes
calibration.
• 15 minutes

6. Select 2000 mOsm to enable 2000 mOsm/kg H2O • Never

calibration. • 5 minutes

• 10 minutes
7. Press SAVE.
Screen dimming time • 20 minutes

• 30 minutes

• Never

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 35

Chapter 4: Testing samples

4.1 Daily procedure

Read and follow all instructions carefully.
Your OsmoTECH was factory-calibrated, so you can
begin using it as soon as you have unpacked it and
completed the installation and setup steps described in
Installation and setup.
BIOHAZARDOUS MATERIAL CAUTION
As outlined below, your daily procedure should include
WARNING: Handle all biohazardous materials verifying the calibration by testing control and/or
according to established good laboratory practices and reference solutions. For information about
follow your institution exposure control plan. Persons recommended controls and reference solutions, see
handling blood and body fluid samples must be trained Quality control.
in blood-borne hazards and should observe Universal 1. Prepare the osmometer for testing.
Precautions for Preventing Transmission of Bloodborne
Infections as defined by the Centers for Disease NOTE: See Preparing the OsmoTECH for testing.
Control and Prevention (CDC). The Universal
Precautions guideline provides infection control by 2. Verify the calibration:
treating all blood and body fluids as if known to be a. Test an appropriate control or reference solution
infectious. Use personal protective equipment such as (Quality control).
gloves, gowns, etc., to prevent exposure. Store NOTE: Follow the instructions in Testing
biohazardous materials in regulated waste containers procedure.
and dispose of these materials in a safe and acceptable
manner that is in compliance with all country, state and b. Evaluate the results of the control test:
local requirements. • If the results are within the expected
range: Continue to step 3 to begin testing
If a biohazardous material is spilled on or inside the
samples.
equipment, decontaminate the equipment using a 1%
bleach solution, or as outlined by those policies and • If the results are not within the
procedures established within your institution. expected range: Recalibrate the OsmoTECH as
directed in Calibration; then repeat step 2.1 and
To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this step 2.2 to verify the calibration.
product in an explosive atmosphere.

Use caution and appropriate personal protective IMPORTANT: Do not proceed to step 3 until
equipment (PPE) if you must put your hands inside the appropriate controls and/or reference solutions yield
osmometer. Placing hands into the opening could result values in the expected range.
in skin punctures or other injuries.

3. After verifying the calibration, test samples as

directed in Testing procedure.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 36

 Chapter 4 Testing samples

The following flowchart illustrates the recommended daily procedure.

1. Prepare 2. Verify
osmometer calibration

2.1
Test
appropriate
controls or Yes
reference
solutions

Troubleshoot/
No
correct errors

2.2
Results
Run
within Passed
No Recalibrate calibration
expected calibration?
routine
range?

Yes

3. Test
samples

4.2 Sample preparation 4.4 Preparing the OsmoTECH for testing

Sample preparation is not required. Before starting a test, verify that:

• The OsmoTECH is displaying the Home screen.

4.3 Best practices
• The empty operating cradle is in the furthest position
For best results, adhere to these guidelines when testing: from the sample port.

• Avoid testing in drafty areas. • Any cleaner from a previous test is removed from the
port and discarded.
• Verify that the sample is thoroughly mixed.
• The test kit is properly installed.
• Keep sample fluids covered if possible to minimize
evaporation or contamination. The test kit must be in the appropriate place on the top
left of the instrument before testing can begin. Orient
• Never re-run a previously-used sample.
the box so the sampling tips are in the front.
• Do not re-use sample tips or cleaners.
Make sure the sampler tip status indicator shows that
additional tests are available. Otherwise, you may need a
new consumable box to run a test.

For more information, see Placing a test kit on the

instrument.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 37

 Chapter 4 Testing samples

4.5 Testing procedure c. Use the keyboard to type the password for the
selected user account; then press Enter.
Use this procedure to test all samples (including
calibration standards, reference solutions, and controls).
4. If applicable: Enter the Sample ID.
Be sure to discard the used sampling tip and clean the NOTE: Check the color of the Sample ID button to
testing chamber as instructed after each sample. determine whether Sample ID is optional or
required:
Logging in and entering a sample ID • Blue: Sample ID is optional
• Orange: Sample ID is required
1. If the Home screen is not currently displayed,
a. Press the Sample ID button.
press to display the Home screen.
A keyboard displays and the barcode scanner on
the front of the instrument activates.

b. Either type the sample ID and press Enter, or scan

the sample label with the barcode scanner.
The keyboard closes. On the Home screen, the
Sample ID field is now populated.
NOTE: If sample ID was required (orange
button), the button turns blue after you
enter the sample ID.

Testing a sample

2. From the Home screen, check the status indicator 1. Place a new sampling tip on the sampler with the
and take the appropriate action: plunger wire inserted carefully into the middle of the
tip.
• Green (Osmometer Ready): Go to step 3.
Verify that the tip is straight and firmly seated.
• Orange (IDs Required): Go to step 3.

• Yellow (Testing in progress): Wait for the current

test to complete.

• Red (error condition): Refer to Maintenance and

troubleshooting.

3. If applicable: Log in with your User ID.

NOTE: Check the color of the Login button to

determine Login status:
• Gray: Login is optional
• Blue: A user is already logged in—the Login
button shows the username. Press Login to
log out that user.

a. From the Home screen, press the Login button.

The Select User screen displays.

b. Select the appropriate username from the drop-

down list and press Enter.
A keyboard displays.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 38

 Chapter 4 Testing samples

2. With your thumb on the plunger top and fingers

Meniscus
grasping the barrel, depress the plunger; then insert
the tip into the liquid sample at least 1/4" (6 mm)
below the surface. Sample

Gently release the plunger to load a 20-μL sample. Plastic

disposable tip

Teflon
plunger tip

Before wiping Acceptable

Unacceptable

5. Holding the sampler by the barrel, carefully insert the

tip into the sample port; then rest the sampler body
in the operating cradle.

3. Look at the sample you have just drawn. If there are

voids or bubbles in the sample, discard it and load
another sample that does not contain voids.

4. Remove any sample on the outside of the tip using a

clean, lint-free, non-ionic paper. Quickly swipe the
end of the sampler tip to remove any excess sample
protruding beyond the tip.

6. Grasp the operating cradle and push it slowly

forward until you feel a positive stop. The test starts
when the cradle reaches the forward position.

When the test begins, the progress bar on the screen

begins to fill. The status bar at the top of the display
is yellow, and the status is TESTING.

NOTE: Be careful not to remove any of the sample below

the acceptable meniscus line (proper sample level
shown below).

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 39

 Chapter 4 Testing samples

7. Wait while the OsmoTECH performs the test. 4. Insert a clean, dry chamber cleaner into the sample
port until you feel a positive stop. Rotate four or five
The OsmoTECH first cools the sample. After a
times in one direction while applying forward
moment, you will hear the solenoid impact several
pressure.
times during the last stages of testing. This is normal
operation.

When the test completes, the resulting osmolality

displays in the middle of the screen. The software
provides the instruction to remove the sampler and
clean the chamber.

Test results are stored in the Results database.

NOTE: If you want to cancel a test, you can

withdraw the sample operating cradle at any
time. If an error occurs during a test, you will
hear a beep, and a message displays on the
screen.

5. Withdraw the cleaner and use the other end to clean

the probe again in the same manner.

Leave the cleaner in the sample port until the next

test.

NOTE: If you want to confirm that you cleaned the

instrument correctly, remove the cleaner and
inspect it. Each end of the cleaner should
have a small puncture hole, indicating proper
cleaning. If you have finished testing samples
for the time being, insert the cleaner back
into the port after inspecting it.
Preparing the instrument for the next test
6. Test more samples or exit:
1. Withdraw the operating cradle and remove the
sampler from the cradle. • To test additional samples, repeat this procedure
beginning with step 4 on pg. 38.
2. Grasp the sampler tip and depress the plunger to • If you have no more samples to test and if you are
help remove it. Discard the sampler tip. logged into the instrument, press the Login button
to log out. Confirm that the Login button changes
3. Wipe the plunger tip with a soft, non-lint, non-ionic from blue to gray or orange.
paper, being careful not to dislodge the Teflon® tip.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 40

 Chapter 4 Testing samples

4.6 Repeatability tips

• Treat all samples, standards, and reference solutions
uniformly before the test.

• Discard ampules after use. Do not store open ampules

with Parafilm®.

• Keep sample containers closed when not in use.

Micro-samples are more susceptible to contamination
and evaporation than larger samples. Cold samples are
susceptible to condensation; warmer samples are
susceptible to evaporation.

• Only use the sampler that was supplied with your

instrument or one that is listed in the parts and
accessories section of this User Guide. Each sampler
comes with specific operating instructions and
re-order information.

• Cross-contamination from previous samples can affect

the result obtained from a subsequent test. To
minimize this effect when testing samples whose
expected range is appreciably different from that for
previous tests, run two or more replicates of the new
sample and disregard the first result. Also, be sure to
clean the cooling chamber and sampler properly after
each test.

• If an occasional sample produces irregular results but

the instrument has been producing accurate readings,
discard the irregular readings and repeat the sample in
question.

• For repeat runs, use additional samples from the same

source.

• Proper cleaning of the cooling chamber between tests

is very important. Follow the procedure given in this
chapter. Never inject anything into the cooling
chamber.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 41

Chapter 5: Calibration

5.3 Calibration procedure

IMPORTANT: Calibrate the OsmoTECH only with
Advanced Instruments Calibration Standards. The OsmoTECH has a built-in calibration function that by
default guides you through testing five samples each of
Using calibration standards that are not manufactured
50 and 850 mOsm/kg H2O calibration standards.
by Advanced Instruments may yield inaccurate results
and is not recommended. You can also configure the instrument to perform
optional calibrations using the 0 and/or 2000 mOsm/kg
H2O calibration standards.
5.1 Factory calibration
NOTE: Supervisors can choose to allow all operators to
Your OsmoTECH was factory-calibrated with 0, 50, 850, perform calibrations, or they can restrict access to
and 2000 mOsm/kg H2O calibration standards before it supervisor-level only.
shipped. The factory calibration is stored within its Supervisors can also configure the optional
0 and/or 2000 mOsm/kg H2O calibrations on the
memory. Therefore, you do not need to calibrate the
Testing tab of the Restrictions screen. For more
instrument upon installation.
information, see Assigning user restrictions.

To perform a calibration:
5.2 When to recalibrate
1. From the Home screen, press
Advanced Instruments recommends that you recalibrate
the OsmoTECH in any of the following cases: The Main menu displays.

• If the test results for the reference solutions are out of

specification
NOTE: Advanced Instruments recommends that you
test appropriate reference solutions daily to
verify the calibration. For more information,
see Daily procedure.

• If the instrument has been serviced (especially if any

instrument hardware was replaced)

• If the ambient temperature has changed more than

5 °C since the last calibration

• In any other circumstances where calibration is

recommended or required based on the regulations 2. From the Main menu, press Calibration.
that govern your laboratory
The system prompts you to log in.

3. Select yourself from the list of available users.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 42

 Chapter 5 Calibration

4. Enter your password and press Enter.

The Calibration screen displays.

The following example shows the Calibration screen

for an instrument that is configured for 0, 50, 850,
and 2000 mOsm/kg H2O calibration.

The rows for the 0 and 2000 mOsm/kg H2O

calibration standard only appear if each have been
enabled (see Configuring calibration access and
optional calibration).

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to test samples

from each specified standard five times.

NOTE: You will test samples of known standards:

• 50 and 850 mOsm/kg H₂O by default
• 0 mOsm/kg H₂O if enabled 6. Click OK to close the success (or failure) message.

• 2000 mOsm/kg H₂O if enabled • When you close a success message, the system
NOTE: Use the method for sample testing described returns you to the Home screen.
in Testing procedure. • When you close a failure message, the system
clears all checkmarks and returns you to the
• After each successful calibration test, a green Calibration screen. From there, you can restart the
checkmark appears in the calibration matrix and calibration or exit to the Home screen.
the instrument prints “DONE” for that calibration
test. When calibration is successful, the instrument calculates
• If a single calibration test fails or is canceled, the a new calibration slope and intercept and saves those
system prompts for a retest using a new sample. values to memory.

If a calibration test fails or is canceled for any reason,

• If two failures occur within the same standard
the instrument does not save that calibration data;
group, that calibration fails and the screen displays
instead, it maintains the last successful calibration.
the message “Two replicate failures”.
The date of the last successful calibration is displayed
• Upon completion of the last calibration test, the on the Calibration screen.
system displays a “Calibration successful” message
or the reason for failure.

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 Chapter 5 Calibration

5.4 Canceling calibration 5.5 Calibration errors

You can cancel the calibration test in progress or the The following table lists errors that can occur during
entire calibration procedure at any time by pressing Calibration.
press .
Error Possible cause/Suggested action

Canceling the test in progress Calibration failed Action: Repeat calibration.

Calibration Cause: A significant maintenance event

To cancel the particular test in progress, retract the required has occurred (for example, the probe
sample handler cradle. The system prompts you to retest resistance has been changed).
with a new sample. Action: Recalibrate the instrument.

NOTE: You can cancel individual tests as often as Calibrator out of Cause: Too much variation in the
range: replicates for the calibrator group.
necessary. Cancellation of an individual test does
0 mOsm/kg,
not count toward the limit of two failures within a Action:
50 mOsm/kg,
calibration set. 850 mOsm/kg, or • Confirm good technique.
2000 mOsm/kg • Confirm sample handler is in good
condition.
Canceling the entire calibration • Check for particulates in sample.

If you cancel the entire calibration, the instrument Out of range: Low Cause: The result for the calibrator is
below/above the expected range for
maintains the last successful calibration. Out of range: High that calibrator group.
1. To cancel the entire calibration, press . Action: Make sure you are using the
correct calibrator.
A confirmation prompt appears. Sample did not See Maintenance and troubleshooting.
freeze

Sample pre-freeze See Maintenance and troubleshooting.

Test timeout See Maintenance and troubleshooting.

Two replicate Cause: Two individual test failures

failures occurred within the same calibrator
group.
Action: Repeat calibration.

Wrong calibrator: Cause: The result for the calibrator was

2. At the confirmation prompt, press Yes to confirm 0 mOsm/kg, above or below the expected range for
cancellation, or No to continue calibration. 50 mOsm/kg, that calibrator group two times.
850 mOsm/kg, or
Action: Make sure you are using the
If you press Yes to confirm cancellation, the system 2000 mOsm/kg
correct calibrator.
discards any data from this calibration and returns
you to the Home screen.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 44

Chapter 6: Results

Test results are stored in the instrument’s database. You 6.2 Sorting the results list
can view, sort, filter, generate reports, and export to a
You can press the gray arrow in the Date/Time column
network server or USB drive. You can also print results.
header to sort entries in either ascending or descending
timestamp order.
6.1 Working with results
From the Main menu, press Results. The list of test
6.3 Filtering the results list
results is displayed.
To make the results list more manageable, you can filter
C
A B the results to display only a subset of results.

1. From the Results screen, press the magnifier icon at

the top of the screen to display the Filter screen.

F E D

In a busy lab, this list might contain several hundreds of

results. You can use the navigation buttons at the top
left of the screen to scroll through the list: 2. Enter filter criteria in one or more parameter fields:

– Scroll the list up or down one record at a • Sample ID: Press the keyboard icon; then enter ID.
time.
• User ID: Select from drop-down list.
– Scroll the list one page at a time.
• Date Range: Press the respective calendar icons to
– Scroll the page left or right (if Description select start and end dates.
field causes page to widen off the screen).
Called out functions are listed below. • Test Details (for example, Test Canceled, Error, and
so on): Select from drop-down list .
A. Press a column header to sort data by that column.
Press twice to toggle sorting by ascending/descending. 3. Press Search. Filtered results of the search display in
B. Shows the number of results selected a new list in the Results screen.

C. Press Total to change the number of results listed 4. If you want to clear the current search filter, press
D. Display a chart for a selected control the magnifying glass with a red X at the top of the
Results screen.
E. Statistics of up to 20 results

F. Send results to LIS network.

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 Chapter 6 Results

6.4 Exporting the results Once you have selected the particular row or rows you
are interested in, press the button for the action you
You can export the results to a USB drive in .csv or .pdf
want to perform.
format. You can then move the file to a computer and
open it in a spreadsheet program or as a PDF. NOTE: The buttons are located on the bottom of the
Results screen.
NOTE: If you have filtered the results list (see Filtering the
results list), the system exports the filtered data. If • Print: Prints the selected results (if printer is
you have not applied filters, the system exports connected)
the full results list.
• Statistics: Performs statistics on up to 20 selected
results and displays a report. From the Statistics
display, you can press Print to send the statistics
report to the printer (if connected). Press Exit to close
the Statistics display and return to the Results list.

• Chart: Displays a Control Monitoring chart for a

control. From there, you can press the Export button
to export an image file of the Control Monitoring chart
to a USB drive. When you have finished viewing (and/
or exporting) the chart, press Exit to close the chart
and return to the Results list.

6.5 Applying an action to results

You can select particular results on which to perform an
action.

• To select results: Press the row or rows so that they

are highlighted.

• To deselect results: Press the row again to clear the

highlight. You can also press (clear selection).

6.6 Adding Comments

1. To add a comment to a result, press and hold (for
more than two seconds) the Details field.

A screen prompts you to select user from a drop-

down list

2. Select the appropriate username from the list and

enter the password.

A keyboard screen appears.

3. Add or edit comments.

A maximum of 48 characters comment is allowed.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 46

Chapter 7: Diagnostics

This chapter describes basic diagnostic procedures that 2. From the Main menu, press Diagnostics.
you can perform.
The Diagnostics menu displays.

7.1 Accessing the Diagnostics menu

The Diagnostics menu provides access to the functions
listed in Table 1.

Function Description/Use

A/D Analog to digital circuit testing

Consumables Test kit reader test

Sample Probe Measure the sample probe resistance

Barcode Test the barcode scanner

Events View/export system events log

From the Diagnostics menu, you can press a button to
Printer Test the printer
select a function, (described in the following sections),
LCD Inspect screen for dead pixels
or you can press the Home button to return to the Home
Solenoid Executes multiple impacts screen.
Table 1: Diagnostics menu buttons

7.2 A/D
To access the Diagnostics menu: The A/D function tests the performance of the analog to
digital converter (A/D), sample probe, block probe,
1. From the Home screen, press
cooling assembly, and the efficiency of heat transfer
The Main menu displays. between the components of the cooling assembly.
Results are presented as resistance (ohms), temperature
(°C), and power level %.

1. From the Diagnostics menu, select A/D to open the

A/D Diagnostics screen.

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 Chapter 7 Diagnostics

2. Select a set point temperature from the drop-down • When the sampler tip count is between 250 (new box)
menu at the top of the screen. and 50, the Consumables screen shows the current
count of consumables and the Status field is empty.
Testing begins.
• When the count is below 50, the Consumables screen
3. After five minutes, the block temperature should shows the current count of consumables in yellow as a
roughly equal the set point temperature. warning that the sampler tips are low. The Status field
displays the message, “Replace AI Consumable Box.”
NOTE: Power level is expressed as a percentage,
indicating how much power the • When the system does not detect a test kit, the
thermoelectric cooler uses to reach a current count of consumables is empty and the Status
temperature set point sensed by the block field displays the message, “AI consumable box not
probe. An increasing power level requirement
detected.” When this message appears, place a new
indicates deteriorating performance of the
consumables box on the instrument to run a test.
cooling assembly.

4. If you select Fixed Resistance, the test runs with Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.
known resistor values, (bypassing the cooling
circuitry) to verify that the A/D is operating
7.4 Sample probe
correctly.

NOTE: When testing in this mode, appropriate From the Diagnostics menu, select Sample Probe to
readings are 6200 ohms ±50 ohms. Readings open the Sample Probe diagnostics screen (Figure 1).
outside this range might point to issues with You will be prompted to test a sample of deionized
the A/D. Contact Advanced Instruments
water; the test results display in Ohms on this screen.
Hot-Line Technical Service.
NOTE: The result should be close in value to the Sample
5. When you are finished working on this screen, press Probe Resistance value set in Changing the probe
Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu. resistance.

Test progress shows in the indicator while the test is in

7.3 Consumables progress.

The Consumables function allows you to check the Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.
status of the instrument’s consumables (test kit).

NOTE: The test kit must be positioned correctly on the

OsmoTECH for this diagnostic to function
properly. (See Placing a test kit on the
instrument.)

From the Diagnostics menu, select Consumables to open

the Consumables status screen.

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 Chapter 7 Diagnostics

7.5 Barcode
From the Diagnostics menu, select Barcode to open the
Barcode diagnostics screen.

To test if the barcode scanner is working properly, place

any barcode of a supported type a few inches in front of
the barcode scanner. If successful, you will hear a beep
and the barcode information displays on screen.

Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.

7.7 Printer
From the Diagnostics menu, select Printer to open the
Printer diagnostics screen (Figure 4).

From the Printer screen, press Test to initiate a built-in

print test of all alpha-numeric characters. The status
display is Ready if the printer is functioning properly.

Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.

7.6 Events
From the Diagnostics menu, select Events to open the
Events log.

An “event” is defined as any action that occurs with the

instrument, including (but not necessarily limited to):

• System errors
• Settings changes
• User added or deleted
• Power up
• Controls added or deleted
• Calibration results
• Consumables box (test kit) not placed correctly

You can scroll or navigate through the Events log using

the icons at the top of the screen, create a filter to
narrow to events of interest, and/or export the events in
the .csv file format.

Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.

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 Chapter 7 Diagnostics

7.8 LCD
From the Diagnostics menu, select LCD to open the LCD
diagnostics screen.

From the LCD screen, you can initiate a pixel test to

check the screen for “dead pixels” of various colors.

You can also test the LCD backlight using the brightness
test slider.

Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.

7.9 Solenoid
From the Diagnostics menu, select Solenoid to open the
Solenoid diagnostics screen.

You can test that the instrument solenoid is working

from this screen. To activate the solenoid test, press
Impact.

Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 50

Chapter 8: Maintenance and
troubleshooting

This chapter describes basic maintenance and 8.2 Issues that require a service technician
troubleshooting procedures that you can perform.
If the product requires service for any of the following
If you need assistance with service procedures after reasons, unplug the product from the electrical outlet
reading this chapter, contact Hot-Line Technical Service and refer service to a qualified service technician:
(see Contacting Advanced Instruments). For efficiency,
• The power cord, extension cord, power strip, or power
have the model and serial number from the bottom of
input module is damaged.
the instrument available when you speak to a technician.
• Liquid has spilled into the interior of the product.
If you need to send your OsmoTECH for servicing, a
Hot‑Line™ Technical Service representative will provide • A foreign object has fallen into the product.
you with an RMA number. Units are not accepted for
• The product has been dropped or damaged by a
service without an RMA number.
falling object.

• There are noticeable signs of overheating or a burning

odor.

• The product does not operate normally when you

follow the operating procedures.

CAUTION: Do not open or remove the instrument • The main supply fuse(s) or any internal fuse(s)
covers unless you are advised to do so by a service continually fail.
engineer. If you are advised to open or remove the
instrument covers, always unplug the power cord first. 8.3 ESD precautions
You could be exposed to electric shock, excessive
temperatures, or mechanical hazards A discharge of static electricity from contact with the
human body or other conductor can damage system
boards or static-sensitive devices. Never perform internal
maintenance without following recommended
8.1 Who should perform service
electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection procedures.
Operators of the OsmoTECH should not undertake any
service or maintenance procedure that is not detailed in
this User Guide.

Service or maintenance procedures that are not included

in this User Guide should be performed only by a
qualified service technician.

Service or maintenance procedures that are detailed in a

Service Manual should be performed only by a qualified
service technician.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 51

 Chapter 8 Maintenance and troubleshooting

8.4 Maintenance 1. Open the section of instrument housing above the

cooling chamber to access the solenoid in the
Keep your OsmoTECH clean on the exterior and free of
OsmoTECH.
spills, debris, and dust.

• Periodically wipe the instrument with a barely-damp

cloth. Use either warm soapy water or isopropyl
alcohol to dampen the cloth.

• Make sure the fan on the back has not accumulated

dust and debris that could impede air flow. Dirty air
vents can cause instrument overheating and reboots.

Complete other service to your OsmoTECH following

instructions in this section.

Chamber cleaning

If you experience multiple Sample Pre-freeze errors, or if

you suspect contamination of the sample probe, clean
the cooling chamber with a chamber cleaner that has 2. Insert a disposable chamber cleaner into the sample
been dampened with water. probe opening until you feel a positive stop.

3. Unscrew the two solenoid retainer bracket screws

Solenoid maintenance
and gently remove the bracket.
A dirty solenoid can cause Sample Did Not Freeze errors
and can affect instrument accuracy and repeatability. 4. Being careful not to lose any small parts, grasp the
enclosed solenoid plunger assembly, lift it up, and
If you suspect the solenoid function has degraded, follow
then withdraw it from the body cylinder.
the instructions below to inspect, clean, or replace it.
NOTE: Leave the body cylinder in place inside the
You should also clean the solenoid periodically as part of instrument.
routine maintenance:

• If the instrument is used daily: Clean the solenoid

monthly.

• If the instrument is used only occasionally: Clean the

solenoid every three months.

This area of this instrument comes into contact 5. Dampen the wooden end of a cotton-tipped
with biohazardous materials. Take appropriate
precautions. applicator with a 70% isopropanol solution; then
insert it down through the solenoid body into the
smaller diameter plunger hole until it reaches the
chamber cleaner you inserted in step 2.

Move the applicator in and out to scrub the sides of

the hole.

6. Clean the smaller diameter plunger of the solenoid

assembly with a 70% isopropanol solution on a soft
cloth.

Do not use any abrasive for this cleaning procedure.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 52

 Chapter 8 Maintenance and troubleshooting

7. Inspect the solenoid plunger for excessive wear and Fuse replacement
deposits.
Tools required:
• If the plunger shows signs of fouling (Figure 3), • Small flat screwdriver
clean it with a lint-free cloth dampened with • Static Grounding Wrist Strap
isopropyl alcohol or a cleaning solution for protein
removal. (Thermo Scientific Orion Cleaning
WARNING: Hazardous Voltage
Solution, part number 900021 is recommended.)

• If the plunger does not show signs of wear,

WARNING: Internal components may be
continue to step 8. damaged by static electricity.

CAUTION: Improper connections may cause

damage to the instrument.

CAUTION: A discharge of static electricity from

contact with the human body or other
conductor may damage system boards or static
Black
sensitive devices. NEVER UNPACK, TOUCH OR
Filings deposits HANDLE ANY PCB WITHOUT WEARING A
present on shaft GROUNDING (EARTHING) STRAP TO MINIMIZE
YOUR STATIC DISCHARGE.

Plating is
uneven, with a
1. Power off the OsmoTECH.
dull, hammered
appearance
2. Unplug the instrument and remove the power cord
from the instrument.

3. Use a small flat screwdriver to open the Fuse Holder

Door located on the Power Entry Module.

Screwdriver

No black

deposits
Fuse Holder
on shaft

No filings

present
Fuse Holder
Door (open)

Plating is

even, bright,

and shiny

4. Remove the Fuse Holder; then remove the two fuses.

8. Return the cleaned solenoid plunger, including

spring, retainer and any washers, to the solenoid
body. Screw in the retainer bracket screws. Replace
the instrument cover, and remove the chamber
cleaner.

9. If necessary, recalibrate the OsmoTECH.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 53

 Chapter 8 Maintenance and troubleshooting

5. Insert two replacement fuses into the Fuse Holder. Sampler plunger wire replacement and verification

NOTE: Use replacement fuse P/N 70011: To ensure proper instrument operation, you should
Fuse, 1.0A 250V SB 5 x 20 mm. replace the sampler plunger wire every 250 tests (or
NOTE: Double-check the values marked on the new each time you empty a TECH250 test kit).
fuses before you install them. The instrument NOTE: A sampler plunger wire is included with each test
automatically adjusts for voltages between kit.
100 VAC and 240 VAC, but appropriately
rated fuses must be installed. Failure to replace the plunger wire may affect instrument
accuracy and repeatability.

Calibration
gauge and key

Shaft bushing
Shaft

Finger grip

Calibration
set-screw
Body
access
6. Re-install the Fuse Holder into the back of the
instrument.

7. Close the Fuse Holder Door.

8. Reconnect the power cord to the OsmoTECH and

plug it into an outlet.

9. Power on the OsmoTECH.

Wire

Tip

Sampler tip

Key

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 54

 Chapter 8 Maintenance and troubleshooting

To replace the sampler plunger wire: Fixing a too-tight fit

1. Unscrew the calibration gauge and key. 1. Place the wire end into the back end (large
diameter) of the sampler tip.
2. Rotate the sampler shaft until the calibration
setscrew appears beneath the access hole in the side
of the sampler body.

3. Place the key end of the calibration gauge in the

access hole and turn counter-clockwise to loosen the Sampler tip

setscrew.

4. Carefully remove the old sampler plunger wire. Sampler

plunger
wire tip
5. Place a sampler tip on the sampler to help you place
new wire correctly.

6. Slip the sampler plunger wire into the sampler tip so 2. Install the sampler plunger wire and tighten.
the Teflon plunger tip protrudes about 1/16" or
1.6 mm from the end of the sampler tip. 3. Move the sampler tip in a back-and-forth motion
over the plunger wire and tip until the fit is
NOTE: If the sampler plunger wire cannot be placed
acceptable.
into the sampler tip without using excessive
force, follow the instructions under Fixing a
too-tight fit. 4. Remove both parts and re-assemble normally.

7. Using the key end of the calibration gauge, push the Verifying the sampler calibration
sampler plunger wire into the sampler as far as it will
Perform this verification procedure after you replace the
go.
sampler plunger wire, or any time you want to confirm
that the sampler is calibrated correctly.
8. Tighten the calibration set-screw with the calibration
gauge. 1. Place a new sampler tip on the sampler.

9. Screw the calibration gauge and key back into the 2. Unscrew the calibration gauge and key.
top of the sampler.
3. Insert the key end of the calibration gauge into the
sampler tip.
Your 20-μL sampler is now calibrated and ready to use.

NOTE: For best results, follow the instructions under 4. Visually inspect the position of the end of the
Verifying the sampler calibration to confirm that sampler plunger wire tip and the end of the
the sampler is calibrated correctly. calibration key.

NOTE: There should be no gap between the two.

5. If necessary, reset the sampler plunger wire as

described above.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 55

 Chapter 8 Maintenance and troubleshooting

8.5 Troubleshooting Errors during testing

If you encounter a system error message on the screen If an error occurs during a test, a message displays on
during operation, you may be able to fix the problem. the screen and is recorded in the events database.
For example, you might need to close the printer door or
Discard the sample, carefully clean the plunger, and then
take some other simple action.
try a new sample. If the error occurs again, refer to
If you are unable to resolve the system error, contact Table 3 for a possible remedy.
Advanced Instrument Hot-Line Technical Service for
Error Possible cause/Suggested action
assistance.
Cause: The sample might be outside the range
of the instrument:
General errors • Out of range Low indicates the measured
Out of reading is below -10 mOsm.
Table 2 lists general errors that the system can detect. range Low
• Out of range High indicates the measured
Out of reading is above 2200 mOsm.
Error Suggested action
range High
Action:
AI consumable box
• Place a test kit on the instrument. • Test a control such as Clinitrol.
not detected
• Check for particulate matter in the sample.
• Close printer door
Cause: The sample might be above the range of
Printer offline • Replace printer paper the instrument.

• Connect printer Action:

• Confirm sample is present in the sampler.
Table 2: General errors Sample did
not freeze • Test the solenoid. (See Solenoid
maintenance.)
• Test a control such as Clinitrol to see if the
Errors during calibration issue persists.
• Clean the sample probe.
For a list of errors that can occur during calibration, see
Calibration errors. Cause: The sample froze prematurely.

Action:
• Re-run a new sample using a known control
Sample
such as Clinitrol.
pre-freeze
• Check for particulate matter in the sample.
• Clean the sample probe with a chamber
cleaner dampened with water.

Cause: The instrument was unable to complete

the test within the allotted time.

Action:
• Check for particulate matter in the sample.
Test timeout
• Test a control such as Clinitrol to see if the
issue persists.
• If the issue persists, the sample might be
outside the range of the instrument.

Table 3: Testing errors

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 56

Appendix A: Product specifications

Sample type Aqueous based solution

Units of measure mOsm/kg H2O

Sample volume 20 ± 1 μL

Sample capacity Single sample

Test time 90 seconds (typical) to test single sample

Power requirement 100 to 240 VAC (50/60 Hz) / 0.5 A

Power consumption: 60 W max.
Fuses (2): 250 V time delay (Type T) 1-Amp

Memory backup Integral lithium cell; 10-year life (unpowered); not user-replaceable

Classifications Protection class: I

Over-voltage category: II
Pollution degree: 2
Moisture protection: IPXO (ordinary)

Communications USB 2.0 Type A ports (2)

USB 2.0 Type B ports (1)
Ethernet 10/100, RJ45 connector port (1)

Operating conditions Temperature: 18 °C to 35 °C (64 °F to 95 °F)

Humidity: 5% to 80% relative humidity (non-condensing)

Storage temperature -20 °C to 45 °C (-4 °F to 113 °F)

Dimensions (D x W x H) Not including test kit: 15" x 14" x 10" (38 cm x 36 cm x 25 cm)
Including test kit: 15" x 14" x 11.5" (38 cm x 36 cm x 38 cm)

Net weight 6.0 kg (13.3 lbs.)

Shipping weight 11.4 kg (25 lbs.)

Warranty One-year limited warranty on workmanship and parts

Certifications

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 57

Appendix B: Performance
characteristics

Definitions

Accuracy
Closeness of agreement between a test result and the accepted reference value (ISO 5725-1)

Repeatability
Precision under conditions where independent test results are obtained with the same method on identical test items
in the same laboratory by the same operator using the same equipment within short intervals of time (ISO 5725‑1:1994)
Source: Harmonized Terminology Database at http://clsi.org

Characteristics

Reportable Range
0 to 2000 mOsm/kg H2O

Resolution
1 mOsm/kg H2O

Accuracy 1 (AI standards and reference solutions)

±2 mOsm/kg H2O from nominal value between 0 and 400 mOsm/kg H2O (1 SD)
±0.5% from nominal value between 400 and less than 1500 mOsm/kg H2O (1 SD)
±1% from nominal value from 1500 to 2000 mOsm/kg H2O (1 SD)

NOTE: For more information about accuracy, see Quality control.

Within-Run Repeatability 1 (AI standards and reference solutions)

Standard deviation ≤2 mOsm/kg H2O between 0 and 400 mOsm/kg H2O
Coefficient of variation ≤0.5% between 400 and less than 1500 mOsm/kg H2O
Coefficient of variation ≤1% from 1500 to 2000 mOsm/kg H2O

Temperature Effects
Less than 1 mOsm/kg H2O for every 5 °C (9 °F) ambient temperature change
Operating Conditions: Temperature 18 °C to 35 °C (64 °F to 95 °F); 5% to 80 % relative humidity (non-condensing).

1 Performance at Reference Conditions: 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F); 40 to 60% relative humidity.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 58

Appendix C: Known limitations

• Additives such as anticoagulants from collection tubes may contribute to the measured osmolality.

• Particulate matter can cause premature crystallization, such as sample pre-freeze. The particulate matter may be
eliminated by centrifugation. It may also be eliminated in urine by filtration.

• Samples with air bubbles do not freeze reliably and may yield inaccurate results.

• Samples allowed to evaporate will yield higher osmolality values.

• Non-aqueous solutions will not yield accurate results. The OsmoTECH is intended to test aqueous solutions only.

• Highly viscous solutions may not freeze reliably and may yield inaccurate results.

• High concentrations of ethanol, acetone, methanol, isopropanol, ethylene glycol, diethyl ether, paraldehyde,
trichloroethane, or propylene glycol may not freeze reliably and may yield inaccurate results.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 59

Appendix D: Regulatory notices

This product has been designed and manufactured to meet the intent of U.S., Canadian, and European regulatory
requirements as outlined below. Modifications made to this product that are not expressly approved in writing by the
manufacturer will void the user’s authority to operate this product, previously issued factory approvals, and the user’s
rights under the warranty.

The distributor or dealer may have applied additional local, national, or international approvals to this product. Consult the
distributor or dealer for more information and documentation.

Connections to this product must be made with industry-standard cables.

Symbol conventions

This symbol indicates conformity to relevant European directives.

This symbol indicates the product was tested to conform to relevant

Canadian and U.S. safety standards by Intertek Testing Services NA,
Inc. The ETL mark is approved in the United States as a Nationally
Recognized Testing Lab (NRTL) by OSHA, and in Canada by the
Standards Council of Canada.

This symbol indicates the product conforms to the Restriction of

Hazardous Substances Directive.

This symbol indicates the product conforms to the requirements of EU

Directive 2012/19/EU on “Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment”
when disposed of in accordance with the provisions of Product
disposal and recycling.

Regulatory Notices

Regulatory
approval type Description

U.S. Safety This product was listed by ETL testing laboratories as being in compliance with the requirements of UL 61010-1,
“Electrical Equipment for Laboratory Use; Part 1: General Requirements.” The “US” in the lower right of the ETL
mark demonstrates this listing.

Canadian Safety This product was listed by ETL testing laboratories as being in compliance with the requirements of CAN/CSA
C22.2 No.61010-1, “Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use;
General Requirements.” The “C” in the lower left of the ETL mark demonstrates this listing.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 60

 Appendix D 

Regulatory
approval type Description

CE Declaration of This product meets the intent of Directive 2014/53/EU, the Radio Equipment Directive. Compliance was
Conformity: Radio demonstrated using the following standards as listed in the Official Journal of the European Communities:
Equipment Directive
(RED) Safety:

• EN 61010-1, “Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use -
General Requirements”

• EN 61010-2-101, “Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use

Emissions & Immunity: Class A Digital Device:

• EN 61326-1, “Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General
Requirements”
• EN 61326-2-6, “Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use, Part 26

• ETSI EN 301 489-1, “Electromagnetic Compatibility Standard for Radio Equipment & Services, Part 1: Common
Technical Requirements”

• ETSI EN 301 489-3, “Electromagnetic Compatibility and Radio Spectrum Matters, Standard for Radio
Equipment & Services, Part 3: Specific Conditions for Short-Range Devices (SRD)”

• ETSI EN 300 330, “Short Range Devices (SRD); Essential Requirements of article 3.2 of Directive”

Consult the Declaration of Conformity certificate shipped with the product (if required) for the latest update.

FCC: Part 15, Subpart This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device
B & C, Class A may not cause harmful interference, and this device must accept any interference received, including interference
which may cause undesired operation.

Canadian: ICES-003 This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

Japan VCCI This Class A digital apparatus complies with VCCI technical requirement V-3.

RFID Statement This product contains an RF Module:

FCC ID: E36-0005
IC: 20739-BISM410
Frequency: 13.56MHz
Tx Power: <68 dBuv @ 3.0 m

EC Declaration of This product meets the intent of Directive 2012/19/EU for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE).
Conformity: WEEE Consult the Declaration of Conformity certificate shipped with the product (if required) for the latest update.

EC Declaration of This product meets the intent of Directive 2011/65/EU for “Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances
Conformity: RoHS in Electrical and Electronic Equipment.”

CB Certificate A copy of the certificate is available upon request.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 61

Appendix E: Supplemental Network
information

You can connect your instrument to use one of the For best results, use a dedicated, direct Ethernet
following systems to exchange information: connection and assign a static IP address to the
instrument.
• Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture
(OPC-UA)
LIS
• Local area network (LAN)

• Laboratory Information System (LIS) to exchange The LIS host computer must be running software
configured to communicate with the instrument per the
The instrument supports bidirectional and unidirectional
separate description in the LIS Interface Specification
communication protocols.1,2
section of the OsmoTECH Product Family Data
NOTE: For more information, refer to the OsmoTECH PRO Management Guide (p/n CL00122).
Data Management Guide (p/n CL00122).
The communication link allows the host computer to
transmit work orders to the instrument and accept test
OPC-UA results transmitted from the instrument. The host work
Use the OPC-UA feature to set up an OsmoTECH PRO as orders provide sample information to the instrument,
an OPC-UA server to send data to OPC-UA clients. including which test to perform.
OPC-UA clients can access test results, test details, and The instrument can be configured to automatically
other test, user, and system information from the transfer available results to the host, or manually transfer
instrument; results to permit the operator time to review the data.

In bi-directional mode, the instrument can receive work

Setting up OPC-UA
order information from the LIS as needed. The LIS may
1. Connect the instrument to the network with the initiate sending work order information to the instrument
Ethernet connection on the rear of the instrument. in advance of sample runs. The information is parsed and
stored in the system for later use.
2. Set up the OPC-UA connection (see Setting up
OPC-UA communication).
Setting up LIS communications

LAN 1. Configure the instrument’s computer for a LAN

connection.
The OsmoTECH PRO can communicate over a LAN using
a static IP address or by connecting to a DHCP server. 2. Set up the LIS connection (see Connecting to a LIS).

Configuring the LAN connection

1. Connect the instrument to the network with the

Ethernet connection on the rear of the instrument.

2. Set up the LAN connection (see Configuring a LAN

connection).

The physical network connection must ensure that the

host computer can communicate with the instrument’s
computer.
1 CLSI LIS01-A2 Specification for Low-Level Protocol to Transfer Messages between Clinical Laboratory Instruments and Computer Systems; Approved Guideline-Second Edition
(2008).
2 CLSI LIS2-A2 Specification for Transferring Information between Clinical Laboratory Instruments and Information Systems; Approved Guideline-Second Edition (2004). Disclaimer:
CLSI standards were used for software development purposes only. OsmoTECH PRO is not for patient diagnostic use.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 62

Appendix F: Product disposal and
recycling

International concern about environmental pollution resulting from improper disposal of products and materials at the
end of their useful life has resulted in an increase in legislation to control the methods and procedures used to handle
waste electrical and electronic equipment. While the regulatory status in some regions of the world has progressed to the
point where formal legislation is already in effect, many other regions are in the process of creating similar legislation or
adopting that already in existence in other areas. The result in the years ahead will be more stringent control over
disposal of products and recycling of their components once they are withdrawn from use.

Since regulations governing the disposal of your instrument and accessories may vary depending upon your geographic
location, the following guidelines are provided to assist you in identifying the options available to you once the decision
has been made to replace or dispose of this product:

• Contact the supplier who sold you the product. Whether you purchased the product from Advanced Instruments or
from one of its authorized dealers, this supplier should be knowledgeable about the national and local regulations
governing disposal and recycling of products in your area. In some cases, this supplier may be legally obligated to
accept the product from you and arrange for proper disposal or recycling with no further involvement on your part.
Alternately, the supplier can provide you with specific instructions for actions that you can take to dispose of the
product properly.

• Contact your local government agency responsible for waste collection and disposal. They can identify procedures and
restrictions in effect to ensure proper disposal, and available locations where products can be sent.

• Contact Advanced Instruments Hot-Line Technical Service. (See Contacting Advanced Instruments). Technical Service
personnel will provide you with contact information for local disposal, or instructions for returning the product directly
to Advanced Instruments.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 63

Appendix G: Warranty and warranty
duties

By accepting and operating this instrument, the user and Advanced Instruments agree to the following responsibilities
which constitute contractual warranties and conditions between the seller and the user for the maximum benefit and
usefulness of the instrument.

LIMITED WARRANTY CONDITIONS MODEL NUMBER: _____________

SERIAL NUMBER: _____________
INSTALLATION DATE: _____________

Advanced Instruments warrants that for 12 months from THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
date of shipment, each new product sold or WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS AND CONDITIONS
manufactured is free from defects in material and OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED IN FACT OR BY
workmanship under normal installation, use and service. LAW. IN NO EVENT SHALL ADVANCED INSTRUMENTS
BE LIABLE UNDER THIS WARRANTY OR OTHERWISE IN
Advanced Instruments agrees that such defects will be ANY MATTER FOR ANY REMOTE OR CONSEQUENTIAL
remedied or new parts furnished in exchange for any DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE BREACH OF THIS
defective part delivered by the owner, transportation WARRANTY OR CONDITION IMPLIED BY LAW OR
charges prepaid, to the factory for our examination. If, OTHERWISE, OR FOR ANY DAMAGE TO THE
in our judgment, the part contains any such defect it INSTRUMENT OR ANY PART THEREOF CAUSED BY
will be replaced, charging only for transportation. IMPROPER INSTALLATION, UNAUTHORIZED REPAIR OR
ALTERATION, NEGLIGENCE, ABUSE OR MISUSE
This warranty does not extend to any instrument INCLUDING USE OF IMPROPER GLASSWARE OR
subjected to negligence, accident, abuse, misuse or REAGENTS, ACCIDENT, OR ACT OF GOD.
other improper operation, or which has been tampered
with, altered or repaired by anyone other than Attention is called to the user’s responsibility regarding
Advanced Instruments or its authorized service reasonable use, useful life of the instrument and
representatives. Nor does this warranty extend to any immediate notification of accident outlined in the
consequential damages caused by defects or improper warranty duties section of the user guide and/or
use, or secondary damage resulting from prior service manual.
problems.
No person is authorized to assume for us any other
The above provisions do not extend the original liability in connection with the sale or service of
warranty period of any instrument or part thereof this equipment.
which has been replaced or repaired thereunder.
Advanced Instruments reserves the right, at any time
Remedies made under the terms of this warranty in no without notice, to make changes in price, color, material,
case include any obligation or responsibility for specifications and models without incurring liability to
transportation charges or arrangements. modify products previously produced, and to add or
discontinue models and accessories.
All results, calibrations, effectiveness checks and
interpretations are the responsibility of the user. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Al1YW REV 0

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 64

 Appendix G 

Advanced Instruments warrants that it: The user warrants that:

1. Produced equipment equal to or exceeding any 1. The instrument will be used reasonably.
competitive product in the same price range in
standards of design, material and workmanship. 2. The instrument will be regularly maintained
according to this manual, including a log of all
2. Knows of no defects in design or materials which service, tests and repairs performed on the
may cause bodily injury. equipment, and records will be kept of all requests
for repair made to Advanced Instruments where such
3. Endeavors to advise the user of changes or repairs were beyond the ability of local service
improvements in the instrument as they are personnel.
developed, so that the user may take steps to
improve the safety and performance of his 3. The instrument will not be altered without written
equipment throughout its useful life. approval from Advanced Instruments.

4. Replaces or repairs equipment according to the 4. Advanced Instruments will be notified immediately if
guarantee on the attached warranty. any injury occurs in any association with the
instrument and will be allowed prompt and thorough
5. Cooperates closely in common defense of any examination of the instrument in question.
accident involving this equipment, or third-party
suit against the user or operating personnel, if 5. Advanced Instruments will be held harmless in cases
advised immediately by the user of the occurrence of injury arising (see definitions below):
of any accident.
• Beyond the useful life of the equipment.

• From unreasonable use.

• When Advanced Instruments is not immediately

notified of said injury.

• From interpretation of results.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 65

 Appendix G 

Definitions

Useful life Immediate notification

• The same as the depreciation life in the Internal • Recognition that time is of the essence when any
Revenue Service guidelines, whether or not the user accident, malpractice or product liability arises which
actually depreciates the instrument, but not to exceed involves Advanced Instruments equipment.
10 years from date of delivery to the user.
• Notification to Advanced Instruments immediately
• Only during the time the equipment has been (the same day, if possible) in the event of injury to any
maintained on a regular basis as prescribed by person in circumstances involving Advanced
Advanced Instruments. If the user is in an area which Instruments equipment in which Advanced
has no local service, Advanced Instruments may Instruments might be named as a defendant in any
require a local service person (understood to mean the form of litigation.
person actually performing the “hands-on” service of
• Allowing Advanced Instruments or its representatives,
the equipment) to attend and pass a reasonable
immediate, full, and thorough examination of
maintenance and repair course.
Advanced Instruments equipment, and all records
• Only during the time when the user has not altered the pertaining to such equipment.
equipment in any way without written approval from
Advanced Instruments.

• Only during the time when the user has not loaned,
leased or resold the equipment to any third party.

Reasonable use

• According to the instructions supplied by Advanced

Instruments (assuming English-reading personnel or
supervision). If neither the supervisor nor the operator
reads English, the user agrees to obtain accurate
translations of the instrument labels, instructions, user
guides and/or manuals provided.

• Under direct, on-the-job supervision of the supervisor

or other professional in charge.

• In which there are no known defects or uncorrected

repairs.

• Only for the purpose stated in the instructions

provided with the instrument.

• In which the equipment has been maintained

according to the instructions provided.

OsmoTECH® Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide 66

Two Technology Way | Norwood, MA 02062 The management system governing the manufac-
turing of this product is ISO 9001 certified.
For more information | 800-225-4034 | +1-781-320-9000
Online | aicompanies.com | [email protected]

Hot-Line Technical Service Advanced Instruments and worldwide distributor network provides 24/7 comprehensive customer service and technical support.
This user’s guide is copyrighted by Advanced Instruments with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not be reproduced in any form, in whole or part, without the prior written consent of
Advanced Instruments.
© 2020 Advanced Instruments. OsmoTECH is a trademark of Advanced Instruments. All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.