On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide helps troubleshoot Error: VALVE FAIL, where a hydraulic valve is continuously activated, causing unintended movement or loss of control of table positioning functions.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the table from patient use immediately if unintended movement is observed
- Lower the table to a safe position if possible
- Ensure the table is stable and no longer moving
2. Verify the Reported Error and Behavior
- Power on the table and confirm VALVE FAIL is displayed
- Observe if a function (tilt, height, section movement) is continuously running
- Note if the issue occurs at startup or after user input
- Listen for constant hydraulic valve or pump activity
3. Check Hand Control and Foot Control Inputs
- Inspect all buttons for sticking or physical damage
- Check for debris or fluid intrusion
- Disconnect hand control and test with foot control (if available)
- Reconnect controls one at a time
4. Inspect Control Cables and Connections
- Check cables for pinching, fraying, or exposed wires
- Verify all connectors are fully seated
- Reseat all connections securely
5. Power Cycle the Table
- Turn the table OFF completely
- Disconnect from mains power
- Wait 30–60 seconds
- Reconnect power and restart
6. Isolate External vs Internal Cause
- Observe if valve activation occurs without any user input
- Confirm issue is not tied to a specific control or accessory
- Verify behavior persists after all external checks
If the Problem Persists
External causes such as controls, cables, and temporary logic faults have been ruled out. Persistent VALVE FAIL with continuous activation indicates internal control failure.
- Remove the device from service
- Label the device as Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a surgical table while a patient is on it. If uncontrolled movement occurs, immediately transfer the patient to a safe and stable surface before continuing.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Table displaying VALVE FAIL error with continuous movement of table functions."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Internal control failure suspected after verifying no stuck controls, cables intact, and issue persists after power cycle."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed table from service and sent for repair; motherboard replacement required."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Error codes like VALVE FAIL help identify serious control issues quickly. Always start with external checks, but recognize when persistent behavior points to internal failure. Prioritize safety, logical troubleshooting, and proper escalation.
That is successful troubleshooting.