Schiller CARDIOVIT AT Series

Asset Type

Electrocardiograph (EKG) Machine

Manufacturer

Schiller

Model

CARDIOVIT AT Series

What This Guide Helps With

Printer not feeding paper, paper jams, blank prints, or poor print quality due to paper loading, incorrect media, or mechanical obstruction.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Ensure Patient Safety First

• If the device is in use, stop ECG acquisition and move the patient to another EKG machine if printing is required.
• Expected: Patient care continues without interruption.
• Why it matters: Printing issues should not delay diagnosis or documentation.

Verify the Reported Issue

• Attempt to print a test ECG or stored report.
• Observe: No paper feed, paper stops mid-print, blank or faded output, error messages on display.
• Expected: Issue is reproducible and clearly identified.
• Why it matters: Confirms whether this is a feed issue, jam, or print quality problem.

Check Paper Supply and Type

• Open the printer compartment and inspect the paper roll.
• Ensure paper is present and not empty.
• Confirm correct thermal paper type for Schiller AT Series.
• Check that paper width matches device requirements.
• Expected: Proper paper is installed.
• Why it matters: Incorrect or missing paper is a common cause of feed and print issues.

Verify Paper Orientation

• Confirm the thermal paper is loaded correctly.
• Ensure paper feeds from the correct direction (thermal side aligned with print head).
• Reload paper if unsure.
• Expected: Paper feeds smoothly when printing.
• Why it matters: Incorrect orientation results in blank prints or no output.

Inspect for Paper Jam or Obstruction

• Check inside the printer compartment.
• Remove any jammed or torn paper.
• Ensure no debris is blocking the feed path.
• Gently clear obstructions without forcing components.
• Expected: Paper path is clear and unobstructed.
• Why it matters: Even small obstructions can prevent proper feeding.

Check Printer Cover and Latch

• Ensure the printer door is fully closed and latched.
• Open and firmly close the printer cover.
• Listen/feel for proper latch engagement.
• Expected: Printer recognizes the cover as closed and allows printing.
• Why it matters: Many units will not print if the cover is not properly secured.

Perform a Test Feed or Calibration

• Use the device’s feed or test print function.
• Press paper feed button (if available).
• Run internal test print if accessible.
• Expected: Paper advances smoothly and prints clearly.
• Why it matters: Helps isolate feed mechanism vs system issue.

Inspect Print Quality (If Feeding Occurs)

• If paper feeds but print is poor:
• Look for faded, uneven, or missing print.
• Clean print head using approved method (lint-free cloth if accessible).
• Replace paper roll with a new one.
• Expected: Clear, legible ECG printout.
• Why it matters: Dirty print heads or degraded paper affect output quality.

Power Cycle the Device

• Restart the EKG machine.
• Turn off the unit.
• Wait 10–15 seconds.
• Power back on and retry printing.
• Expected: Printer resets and functions normally.
• Why it matters: Clears minor system or printer communication faults.

If the Problem Persists

If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (printer mechanism, motor, or control circuitry).

Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.

Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary damage and ensures proper repair handling.

Clinical Use Tip

Do not troubleshoot on an active patient. Move the patient to a backup device first to maintain therapy continuity and ensure safe, uninterrupted care.

Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)

CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution

Complaint

What was reported by the clinical staff.

Example:
"EKG machine not printing; paper not feeding during ECG acquisition."

Cause

What was observed during troubleshooting.

Example:
"Paper roll installed incorrectly, preventing proper feed."

Resolution

What action was taken.

Example:
"Reinstalled paper correctly and verified proper feed and print function."

Helpful Details to Include (If Known)

• Alarm behavior or error messages observed
• Accessories swapped (paper roll, cleaning performed)
• Power behavior during printing attempts
• Environmental factors (humidity, debris, heavy use)
• Indicator lights or printer status messages
• Test print or feed results
• Final device status

Final Thought

Thermal printer issues are often simple external problems like paper loading or jams. A structured approach prevents unnecessary escalation. Always prioritize patient care, verify basics first, and document clearly.

That is successful troubleshooting.