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What This Guide Helps With
Intermittent or poor ultrasound image quality, including dropout, noise, or weak signal caused by probe, connection, or system setting issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If imaging is critical, move the patient to another functioning ultrasound system before troubleshooting.
- Prevents risk of missed or inaccurate clinical findings.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Power on the system and observe the image.
- Check for complete image loss vs partial dropout.
- Determine if the issue is intermittent or constant.
- Identify if the issue occurs with specific probes or all probes.
Check Probe Connection (Most Common Cause)
- Disconnect and reconnect the probe securely.
- Inspect for loose connection, bent or damaged pins, and debris or fluid in the port.
Test with a Known Good Probe
- Connect a different, known working probe.
- If image improves, the original probe is faulty.
- If issue persists, suspect system or port.
Inspect the Probe Cable
- Run your hand along the cable while imaging.
- Check for cuts, kinks, or exposed shielding.
- Watch for image flickering when cable is moved.
Check Imaging Settings
- Verify gain, depth, and frequency settings.
- Ensure no unusual presets or modes are active.
- Reset to a default preset if needed.
Check for Overheating or Extended Use Effects
- Observe if the issue appears after prolonged use.
- Check system fan operation and heat near probe ports.
Inspect Probe Port for Damage
- Look for bent pins, loose connectors, or physical damage.
Perform a System Reboot
- Shut down the system completely and restart.
- Clears temporary software or processing faults.
If the Problem Persists
If all probes show poor image quality or dropout after these checks, common external causes have been ruled out.
The issue is likely internal (beamformer, processing board, or port hardware).
Remove the system from service, label as Out of Service, and send for vendor repair or bench evaluation.
Clinical Use Tip
Never rely on a degraded ultrasound image for diagnosis. Always transition to a known-good system before continuing patient care.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Ultrasound image intermittently dropping out during use on Samsung HM70A."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Faulty linear probe cable causing intermittent signal loss when manipulated."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced defective probe with known good unit; verified normal image quality restored."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm or error behavior during imaging
- Accessories or probes swapped
- Power or stability behavior
- Environmental factors (heat, usage duration)
- Indicator lights or system messages
- Final device status after testing
Final Thought
Image quality issues should always be approached from the outside in—probe, cable, and connection first. Most failures are not internal. Protect patient safety by escalating when needed and documenting clearly.
That is successful troubleshooting.