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Model
What This Guide Helps With
Table not raising or lowering, intermittent height movement, or inconsistent operation due to power, control, or connection-related issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the table from active patient use before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient safely relocated.
- Why it matters: Unexpected movement or loss of height control can cause injury.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Operate the hi-lo function using all available controls (hand control and/or foot control).
- Expected: No movement, delayed response, or intermittent operation confirmed.
- Why it matters: Confirms whether the issue is consistent and isolated to hi-lo.
Check Power Source (Outlet)
- Confirm the table is plugged into a known working outlet. Test the outlet with another device.
- Expected: Stable power is present.
- Why it matters: Power loss or fluctuation is the most common cause of actuator issues.
- If no power → restore power and retest
Inspect Power Cord and Entry Point
- Check the entire power cord for cuts, fraying, or loose connections where it enters the table base.
- Expected: Cord is intact and securely connected.
- Why it matters: Intermittent power can cause actuator hesitation or failure.
- If damaged → remove from service
Check Hand Control / Foot Control Functionality
- Inspect for stuck buttons, damaged cables, or unresponsive inputs. Try alternate control if available.
- Expected: Controls respond consistently.
- Why it matters: Faulty controls can mimic actuator failure.
- If one control works and the other does not → replace faulty control
Inspect Control Cable Connections
- Check that control cables are securely connected to the table base and not loose or pinched.
- Expected: All connections are tight and undamaged.
- Why it matters: Loose or damaged cables interrupt signal to the actuator.
Check for Obstructions or Mechanical Binding
- Inspect under the table for objects, debris, or components interfering with vertical movement.
- Expected: Clear movement path.
- Why it matters: Physical obstruction can stop or strain the actuator.
- If obstruction found → remove and retest
Verify Load and Weight Distribution
- Ensure weight on the table is within rated limits and evenly distributed.
- Expected: Proper loading conditions.
- Why it matters: Overloading can cause actuator stalling or intermittent movement.
- If overloaded → correct and retest
Listen for Actuator Response
- Activate hi-lo and listen for motor noise (clicking, humming, or silence).
- Expected: Smooth motor sound during operation.
- Why it matters:
- No sound → possible power/control issue
- Humming/no movement → possible actuator stall or internal failure
Power Cycle the Table
- Unplug the table for 30–60 seconds, then reconnect and retest.
- Expected: Normal operation restored if issue was temporary.
- Why it matters: Resets control electronics and clears transient faults.
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (actuator, control box, or internal wiring).
Remove the table from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and reflects proper troubleshooting practice.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a hi-lo issue with a patient on the table. Always transfer the patient first to avoid sudden drops or instability.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Table would not raise or lower during patient setup."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Faulty hand control with intermittent signal to actuator."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced hand control and verified normal hi-lo operation."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet tested and verified
- Power cord condition
- Control type used (hand/foot)
- Indicator lights or lack of response
- Sounds from actuator (none, clicking, humming)
- Obstructions present or not
- Load condition during failure
- Final device status
Final Thought
Effective troubleshooting starts with simple external checks and moves logically toward more complex causes. Patient safety comes first, and recognizing when a failure is internal is just as important as fixing external issues. Proper documentation ensures clarity, accountability, and supports long-term equipment reliability.
That is successful troubleshooting.