On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting a Skytron 6500 Series surgical table when the hand control or pendant does not operate the table. Common symptoms include:
- No response when buttons on the hand control or foot pendant are pressed
- Indicator lights on the pendant do not illuminate
- Table powers on normally, but no movement occurs
Focus is on external, verifiable checks before considering internal repair.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Visual Inspection
- Check the hand control and pendant for physical damage, loose connectors, or frayed cables.
- Ensure the connector is fully seated in the table control port.
- Why: Loose or damaged connections are a frequent cause of control failure.
Check Power and Table Status
- Confirm the table powers on and indicator lights on the table base are normal.
- Verify the table is not in a locked or maintenance mode that disables movement.
- Why: The hand control may appear nonfunctional if the table itself is not in an active mode.
Cable Continuity Test
- If possible, use a multimeter to check the continuity of the pendant cable from the connector to the hand control.
- Swap the hand control with a known working one, if available.
- Why: Faulty wiring or internal cable breaks can prevent signal transmission.
Battery Check (if applicable)
- Some hand controls use internal batteries. Verify battery voltage and replace if low.
- Why: Weak or dead batteries can prevent button actuation or lights from functioning.
Test Table Response
- With a verified working hand control or pendant, attempt all movement functions.
- Observe any movement or indicator response.
- Why: Confirms whether the issue is isolated to the control device or the table electronics.
If the Problem Persists
Common external causes have been ruled out. The issue is likely internal to the table’s control electronics or the pendant itself.
- Remove the table from service
- Label as Out of Service
- Send for manufacturer repair or bench evaluation
Knowing when to stop avoids unnecessary risk or further damage.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never attempt table movement with a nonfunctional pendant while a patient is on the table.
- Move the patient to a backup table before troubleshooting further.
- Only work on the table when it is safe and de-energized.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“OR staff report that pressing buttons on the hand control or pendant does not move the table.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Visual inspection showed intact cabling; pendant does not respond; table powers on normally.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Hand control/panel swapped with known working unit for verification. Table removed from service and sent for bench evaluation due to likely internal electronics failure.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Table power status confirmed
- Cable continuity tested
- Indicator lights on pendant observed
- Swapped with known working hand control
- Table marked Out of Service
Final Thought
Patient safety and methodical troubleshooting are paramount. Start with simple checks like connections and batteries, confirm table status, and escalate appropriately when internal failures are suspected. Document all steps clearly for future reference.
That is successful troubleshooting.