On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Troubleshooting image artifacts, poor resolution, shadowing, or inconsistent image quality caused by probes, settings, or external factors.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If image quality is impacting diagnosis, remove the system from patient use and move the patient to a known working ultrasound system.
- Diagnostic accuracy is critical, and poor imaging can lead to clinical risk.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Power on the system and reproduce the issue.
- Observe the image for:
- Lines, dropouts, or streaks
- Grainy or low-resolution image
- Uneven brightness or shadowing
- Expected: Artifact or degradation is visible and repeatable.
- Why it matters: Confirms a real system issue versus user perception or setup.
Check Probe Condition and Cleanliness
- Inspect the probe for:
- Cracks in the lens
- Delamination or bubbling
- Residue, gel buildup, or debris
- Clean the probe using approved methods.
- Expected: Probe surface is clean and intact.
- Why it matters: Probe damage or contamination is the most common cause of image artifacts.
Test with a Known Good Probe
- Swap the probe with another compatible, known working probe.
- Expected:
- If image improves → original probe is faulty
- If issue persists → problem is system-related
- Why it matters: Quickly isolates probe vs system fault.
Inspect Probe Connection and Port
- Disconnect and reconnect the probe firmly.
- Inspect connector for:
- Bent or damaged pins
- Debris or fluid intrusion
- Try a different probe port if available.
- Expected: Secure connection with no visible damage.
- Why it matters: Poor connections can cause signal loss and artifacts.
Check Imaging Settings
- Verify settings such as:
- Gain and depth
- Frequency selection
- Preset (correct exam type selected)
- Reset to a default preset if needed.
- Expected: Image improves with proper settings.
- Why it matters: Incorrect configuration can mimic hardware issues.
Evaluate Environmental and External Factors
- Check for:
- Excessive gel or air gaps
- Poor probe contact with patient
- Electrical interference from nearby equipment
- Expected: Stable image when conditions are optimized.
- Why it matters: External factors can introduce artifacts without device failure.
Reboot the System
- Perform a full system restart.
- Expected: Temporary software-related artifacts may clear.
- Why it matters: Clears minor software or processing faults.
Check for Overheating or System Warnings
- Ensure ventilation is not blocked and system is not overheating.
- Listen for abnormal fan behavior.
- Expected: System operates within normal temperature range.
- Why it matters: Thermal issues can degrade imaging performance.
If the Problem Persists
If probe condition, connections, settings, and environmental factors have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (beamformer, processing hardware, or system electronics).
Remove the system from service, label Out of Service, and send for repair or further bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and ensures proper escalation.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot image quality on an active patient. Always verify performance using a test phantom or non-clinical setting when possible.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Ultrasound image appears grainy with intermittent lines during scanning."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Defective probe identified after testing with a known good probe resolved the issue."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed faulty probe from service and replaced with functional probe; system returned to service."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Probe swapped and results
- Probe condition (cracks, wear, cleanliness)
- Ports tested
- Settings adjusted/reset
- Artifact description (lines, shadowing, dropout)
- System reboot performed
- Final device status
Final Thought
Image quality issues are most often caused by probes, settings, or connections—not internal failures. A structured approach ensures patient safety, avoids unnecessary downtime, and supports accurate diagnosis. Proper documentation also helps track recurring probe failures and system performance trends.
That is successful troubleshooting.