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Asset Type
Fluoroscopy / Interventional System
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Identifies external causes of generator exposure faults, including interlocks, HV tank conditions, and system readiness issues preventing X-ray generation.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm no patient is on the table and the system is not actively exposing.
- Why: Prevents unintended radiation exposure during troubleshooting.
Verify System Ready State
- Check that the system is fully booted with no active critical errors on the console.
- Expected Outcome: System indicates “Ready” or equivalent status.
- Why: Generator faults can occur if the system is not fully initialized.
Check Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Status
- Inspect all E-stop buttons (room, table, console) and ensure they are fully released.
- Expected Outcome: Releasing E-stop clears interlock-related generator faults.
- Why: Engaged E-stop disables high voltage generation.
Inspect Room and System Interlocks
- Verify all cabinet doors, covers, and access panels are fully closed.
- Check collimator, detector positioning, and gantry clearances.
- Expected Outcome: All interlocks satisfied with no warning indicators.
- Why: Open interlocks prevent HV activation for safety.
Check Table and Positioning Interlocks
- Ensure table is properly locked, brakes are engaged as required, and no movement faults are active.
- Expected Outcome: No table-related interlock warnings present.
- Why: Table positioning faults can inhibit generator exposure.
Verify Footswitch and Exposure Controls
- Inspect footswitch connections and cables for secure connection and damage.
- Test exposure using alternate control (hand switch vs footswitch if available).
- Expected Outcome: Exposure command is recognized by the system.
- Why: Faulty or disconnected switches can mimic generator failure.
Check Generator and HV Tank Area (External Only)
- Visually inspect HV tank cabinet for unusual noises (clicking, humming irregularities).
- Check for overheat indicators or warning lights.
- Inspect for signs of oil leakage or odor.
- Expected Outcome: No visible or audible abnormalities.
- Why: External HV tank issues often present with alarms or physical signs.
Verify Power Stability to Generator
- Check system power source, UPS (if present), and facility power stability.
- Inspect for recent power fluctuations or breaker trips.
- Expected Outcome: Stable power with no recent interruptions.
- Why: HV generator faults can be triggered by unstable input power.
Review System Error Codes or Logs
- Document any generator-related fault codes displayed on the system.
- Expected Outcome: Codes help distinguish interlock vs HV-related faults.
- Why: Accurate fault codes are critical for escalation and service calls.
Perform a Controlled System Restart
- Shut down the system using proper procedure and restart fully.
- Expected Outcome: Temporary faults may clear after reboot.
- Why: Software or communication faults can mimic generator issues.
If the Problem Persists
If all external interlocks, controls, and power conditions are verified, the issue is likely internal to the generator or HV tank.
Remove the system from service, label it Out of Service, and escalate for vendor service or qualified bench evaluation.
Do not attempt internal HV or generator repairs in the field.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot generator or exposure faults with a patient present. Always move the patient to a functioning system before testing.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"System unable to produce exposure; generator fault displayed during procedure setup."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"All external interlocks verified functional; fault persisted indicating likely internal HV/generator issue."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"System removed from service and escalated to GE service for generator evaluation and repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- E-stop status verified
- Interlocks (doors, panels, table) checked
- Footswitch/hand switch tested
- Power source and breakers verified
- Fault codes recorded
- Any unusual noise, heat, or odor noted
- Final system status (in service vs out of service)
Final Thought
Generator faults require disciplined troubleshooting—always rule out interlocks, controls, and power first. Patient safety and proper escalation are critical, especially with high-voltage systems. Clear documentation ensures efficient repair and reduces downtime.
That is successful troubleshooting.