7.
Reference ranges are preset when the analyzer is shipped from the factory. The range values
can be changed using the Customizing Reference Range feature described in
Reference Ranges" on page
2.4
Piccolo Xpress System Description
The Piccolo Xpress chemistry system consists of a portable ana-
lyzer and disposable single-use reagent discs. Each reagent disc
contains all the reagents needed to perform a panel of tests on a
single sample. Be sure to become familiar with the system before
running samples.
The Piccolo Xpress analyzer uses centrifugal and capillary forces
to process heparinized whole blood samples and distribute
diluted plasma to the reaction chambers (cuvettes) in the reagent
disc. Serum and heparinized plasma samples are processed in a
similar manner. The analyzer optically measures the chemical
reactions and calculates analyte concentrations from these mea-
surements and from encoded calibration data contained on the bar
code ring on the reagent disc.
Results are stored in memory, and can be printed using the built-in thermal printer or downloaded to an
external personal computer for data management.
The touchscreen display provides easy communication with the analyzer. The touchscreen shows pro-
cedural instructions, indicates the status of the analyzer, and presents any error messages. For details,
see
"Touchscreen and Front Panel" on page
The reagent disc drawer slides out from the front of the analyzer, and transports the reagent disc (see
"Reagent Discs" on page
The analyzer prints results on adhesive-backed thermal paper tape, through its internal printer.
An external power adapter and two power supply cords are provided: one connects the power adapter
to the back of the analyzer, and the other connects the adapter to a surge protector designed for use with
a computer. The analyzer also has several USB connectors: use the top USB connector for connecting
to an external computer (see
The analyzer is easy to carry using the recessed handle incorporated into the top of the unit.
4-2.
2-6.
2-7) into the analyzer and automatically positions it for analysis.
"Connecting a Computer/Printer" on page 10-1
Setup and Description
"Customizing
for details).
2-5