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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting situations where the ACUSON Sequoia fails to boot, freezes during startup, or displays errors preventing normal operation. It focuses on external, easily verifiable checks before considering internal failure or service.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Never attempt troubleshooting on a system in active patient use.
- Move patients to an alternative imaging system first.
- Ensure safe environment before performing any electrical or software tests.
Verify Power Connection
- Ensure the system is plugged into a live, grounded outlet.
- Check for illuminated power indicators on the system.
- Why: Many boot failures are caused by loss of AC power or poor grounding.
Check Power Cables and Surge Protection
- Inspect AC power cord for damage or loose connections.
- Bypass extension cords or surge protectors temporarily to test.
- Why: Faulty cables or overloaded surge protectors can prevent startup.
Check Battery Backup (If Present)
- Some ACUSON Sequoia systems have internal batteries; verify charge status.
- Replace or remove battery and attempt boot with AC power only.
- Why: A failing internal battery can halt boot processes.
Confirm Peripheral Devices
- Disconnect all non-essential peripherals (external drives, USB devices, printers, probes not needed at startup).
- Attempt boot with minimal configuration.
- Why: A failing peripheral can block or freeze the boot sequence.
Observe Error Messages or LED Codes
- Document any displayed error codes or warnings.
- Check the system display for BIOS or software initialization messages.
- Why: Error codes provide guidance on the root cause.
Soft Reset / Power Cycle
- Turn off the system completely. Wait 1–2 minutes, then power on.
- Why: Clears temporary faults that can block boot.
Network and Software Checks
- Disconnect from network if errors appear during network initialization.
- Ensure the system is running supported software versions if a recent upgrade was performed.
- Why: Network or software conflicts can delay or prevent boot.
If the Problem Persists
Common external causes (power, cables, peripherals) have been ruled out. Likely internal causes include motherboard, power supply, or storage/controller failure.
- Remove the system from clinical service.
- Label as Out of Service.
- Send for vendor repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop avoids further damage or patient risk.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never attempt troubleshooting on a system in active patient use.
- Move patients to an alternative imaging system first.
- Ensure safe environment before performing any electrical or software tests.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
System will not complete boot; remains on manufacturer logo.
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
External power verified; all peripherals disconnected; system still fails to boot.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
System removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent to Siemens Healthineers service for evaluation.
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet verified with voltmeter
- Power cord visually inspected
- Battery checked or removed
- Error codes or LED behavior documented
- Peripherals disconnected
- Final device status: Out of Service
Final Thought
Patient safety comes first—do not compromise it to attempt risky troubleshooting. Systematic checks of power, connections, and peripherals save time and clarify when escalation is necessary. Proper documentation ensures continuity of care and supports repair workflows.
That is successful troubleshooting.