On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Addresses failed charging caused by the outlet, adapter, cord, dock alignment, contaminated contacts, damage, or internal power faults.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Protect the Patient and Remove Questionable Power Equipment
Do not use a damaged power adapter or charging dock near a patient. Disconnect any accessory showing exposed conductors, sparking, overheating, liquid intrusion, odor, or enclosure damage.
Keep a verified GlideScope system and backup airway method available for clinical use.
Expected outcome: Unsafe power accessories are isolated, and patient care continues with reliable equipment.
2. Confirm the Exact Charging Accessory Failure
Determine whether the dock has no indication, the device does not detect the dock, charging stops intermittently, or the power adapter does not energize the system.
Test the complaint using the exact adapter, cord, dock, and device reported.
Expected outcome: The failing part of the external charging path is clearly identified.
3. Verify the Wall Outlet
Test the outlet according to facility electrical safety practices. Confirm switched or emergency-power receptacles are active and that the plug fits securely.
Expected outcome: The outlet provides reliable power. If the accessory works on another verified outlet, refer the original receptacle for facilities correction.
4. Confirm the Correct Approved Power Adapter
Compare the adapter identification with the equipment configuration and facility records. Do not use an adapter simply because its connector fits.
Inspect the plug, cable, brick, strain reliefs, and connector for damage, heat, or discoloration.
Expected outcome: The correct approved adapter is present and visibly safe.
5. Inspect Dock and Device Contacts
Disconnect power before inspection. Check the charging dock and mating device surfaces for debris, dried residue, corrosion, moisture, recessed contacts, or physical damage.
Clean external surfaces and contacts only through approved methods. Allow them to dry completely before reconnecting power.
Expected outcome: Charging contacts are clean, dry, aligned, and undamaged.
6. Verify Correct Dock Positioning
Place the device in the dock using its normal alignment and retention features. Confirm it sits fully without rocking, interference, or cable tension.
Do not modify the dock, add spacers, or force the device into position.
Expected outcome: The device seats consistently and displays the expected charging indication.
7. Inspect Cable Routing and Connector Retention
Confirm the adapter cable is not sharply bent, trapped behind the cart, pulled sideways, or supporting the weight of the dock. Reseat the adapter connection at the dock and wall outlet.
Expected outcome: All power connections remain secure during normal cart or device movement.
8. Substitute Known-Good External Power Components
Use a known-good approved adapter with the suspect dock, then a known-good compatible dock with the original device. Change one item at a time.
Expected outcome: The failure follows the adapter, dock, or device. Remove the identified defective accessory from service.
9. Test the Suspect Accessory With Another Compatible Device
When available, test the dock or adapter with another verified compatible GlideScope component.
Expected outcome: The comparison confirms whether the external charging accessory itself is defective.
10. Complete Final Charging Verification
Confirm the device recognizes external power, begins charging, remains connected during normal movement, and shows an increasing battery state. Verify safe condition of all cords and connections.
Perform electrical safety testing when required by facility policy or the repair performed.
Expected outcome: Charging remains stable and repeatable. The dock or adapter may return to service only after all required checks pass.
If the Problem Persists
The outlet, adapter identity, cable, dock seating, contacts, routing, and known-good substitutions have been evaluated. The remaining cause may involve the device’s internal power input, charging circuitry, battery communication, or a dock assembly requiring authorized repair.
Remove the affected accessory and device from service as appropriate, label them Out of Service, and send them for qualified bench evaluation using manufacturer documentation and approved test equipment. Do not open power adapters or perform unauthorized internal repairs.
Return-to-service testing must verify stable charging, cord integrity, battery operation, and applicable electrical safety requirements. Stopping when the external power path has been ruled out is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Place charging docks where the device can seat fully without cable tension, fluid exposure, or accidental impact from cart movement.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Clinical staff reported that the GlideScope would not charge when placed in its dock."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering found dried residue on the dock charging contacts that prevented consistent contact."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering cleaned and dried the external contacts according to approved procedures and verified stable charging with an increasing battery indication."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Dock or adapter symptom
- Outlet tested
- Adapter identification
- Cord and strain-relief condition
- Dock alignment
- Contact contamination or damage
- Known-good adapter result
- Known-good dock result
- Charging indicator behavior
- Final device status
Final Thought
Protect the patient from unreliable power, verify the outlet and approved external accessories first, isolate the dock from the device through substitution, and escalate internal charging faults with complete documentation.
That is successful troubleshooting.