Company Information

© Copyright 2024. Epredia. All rights reserved. These instruments conform to the general safety and
Epredia makes every attempt to ensure that the performance of:
information contained in this supporting document is • Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations S.I.
correct and clearly stated but does not accept 2016/1101 (UK implantation of LVDD).
responsibility for any errors or omissions. The
• Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
development of Epredia products and services is an
• EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
ongoing process. Please ensure that any published
information you use as a reference is up to date and
relates to the condition of the product. If necessary, check Symbols
with your local Epredia representative.
This document may not, in whole or in part, be copied, The following symbols and conventions may be used
photocopied, reproduced, translated, or converted to any throughout this document and on the instrument:
electronic or other form without prior written consent of
Epredia. All information contained in this manual is This symbol is used on the equipment, or in
proprietary and confidential, and the exclusive property of a document, to indicate that instructions
Epredia and is protected by copyright. must be followed for safe and correct
operation.
This symbol is also used on the instrument,
or in a document, to indicate that irritants or
potentially harmful chemicals are present.
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets for
the products, and always use Good
Laboratory Practice.
If this symbol appears on the instrument
always refer to the operator guide.

Contact address
Manufacturer
LPO FA-Tech Diagnostics Italia
Corporate Headquarters
37, Via Sisto V This symbol is used on the instrument or in a
63074, San Benedetto del Tronto (Italia) document to indicate that the instructions
Tel.+39 0735 592648 must be followed.

Distributor
Shandon Diagnostics Limited, a subsidiary of
Epredia
Tudor Road, Manor Park, Runcorn
Cheshire, WA7 1TA, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1928 534000
Fax: +44 (0) 1928 534001
Web: www. epredia.com
Contents
SlideMate Laser Connection: ............... 17
Company Information 3
Locating the Printer .............................. 17
Symbols ...................................................... 3
Loading the Slides ...................................... 18
Contact address .......................................... 3
Slide Selection ..................................... 19
Distributor .................................................... 3
Chapter 3 - User Interface 20
Contents 4
User Mode – Adding a New User ................ 21
Safety Information 6 To delete a User .................................. 22
Introduction ................................................. 6 To change passwords.......................... 22
General Safety ............................................. 6 User Login .................................................. 23
Safe Setup................................................... 7 To Login .............................................. 23
Electrical Safety ..................................... 7 To Logout ............................................ 23
Mechanical Safety ................................. 7 Home Screen ............................................. 24
FCC ...................................................... 7 Hopper Status ............................................ 25
Optical Laser Safety ..................................... 7 Settings ...................................................... 27
EMC Statement ........................................... 8 About Menu ............................................... 28
Environment ................................................ 8 Language selection..................................... 28
Warranty Statement ..................................... 8 Setting Time & Date .................................... 29
Time .................................................... 29
How to use this Guide 9
Date..................................................... 29
Introduction ................................................. 9
Queue Management ................................... 30
Chapter Summary ....................................... 9
Layouts ...................................................... 31
Chapter 1 - Introducing the To delete a layout................................. 33
SlideMate Laser Printer 10 To edit a layout .................................... 33
Identification of Parts ..................................11 Items explained .................................... 33
LED Indicators .....................................11 Create a new Parser Barcode ..................... 34
Scanner ...............................................12 Create a new LIS parser: ............................ 36
Printer Operation ..................................12 Map a network drive from the printer .... 38
System Specifications .................................13 Setting for LIS cache folder: ........................ 39
Manual print: ........................................ 39
Chapter 2 – Installation and
Setup 14 Template change ................................. 39
List ............................................................. 40
Unpacking and Moving the Instrument ........15
Panels ........................................................ 42
Unpacking............................................15
Adding New Slide / Printing Slides .............. 43
To unpack the SlideMate Laser Printer: 15
Printing Slides ...................................... 43
SlideMate Laser Printer Accessories .....16
Manually Loading a Slide ............................ 45
Setting up the Electrical Connections ..........17

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 4

 Printer Settings ...........................................46
Keyboard Pop Up ................................47
Import-Export machine setup......................48

Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting 49
Troubleshooting Table ................................50
Error Message Table ...................................51
Icon Glossary ..............................................53

Chapter 5 – Cleaning and

Maintenance 54
Cleaning and Maintenance ..........................54
Maintenance ...............................................55
Weekly Maintenance ............................55
Emptying the Debris Tray .....................55
Removal of Marking Dust .....................56
Six months Maintenance ......................57
Filter Maintenance ................................58
Replacing the filter at any point in time..59
Replacing the Filter ...............................60

Appendices 61
Appendix A .................................................62
Laser Hazard Classifications .................62
Control Measures for Laser Classifications
............................................................63
Biological Effects of Laser Irradiation ....63
Table Showing Control Measures .........64
Appendix B .................................................65
Symbol Definition .................................65
APPENDIX C ..............................................66
Labels placement .................................66
APPENDIX D ..............................................67
Warning for users : Diode Lifespan .......67
APPENDIX E ...............................................68
Disposal at the End of Lifecycle ............68
APPENDIX F ...............................................69
APPENDIX G ..............................................70
APPENDIX H ..............................................71
Parser Barcodes Explained ..................71

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 5

Safety Information
Introduction
Epredia instruments are designed for convenient • The instrument is only connected to the
and reliable service; however, improper use or Mains Power Supply using the supplied
handling by a user may damage the instrument power adapter and detachable mains
or cause a hazard to health. The instrument must lead. For replacement power adapter,
not be used in a manner not specified by Epredia. ask your local distributor.
Correct maintenance procedures are essential • Routine maintenance of SlideMate Laser
for consistent performance. It is recommended Printer is required for maintaining system
that users secure a maintenance contract with integrity and proper operation.
our service department. Maintenance must be carried out as
To remain compliant with regulatory specified in this manual. Refer to
requirements, and to ensure that mandatory Chapter 5 maintenance section, for
safety upgrades are performed at the earliest more information.
opportunity, it is strongly recommended that all • Do not attempt to install or re-locate the
service activities are performed by Epredia- SlideMate Laser Printer. Doing so may
factory trained Engineers. Warranty may be result in corruption, of data and/or
voided if service is performed by non-factory malfunctioning instrument. For
trained Engineers. SlideMate Laser installation contact a
Epredia service representative.
Maintenance or repairs that are not performed by
Epredia trained Engineers with proven training • The instrument should be placed on a
may affect the safety, performance, and suitable level surface and not in direct
compliance of the equipment. sunlight.
• Use only factory approved accessories
Please consult your local sales or support teams
or replacement parts within the
for more information about service contracts.
instrument.

General Safety • If this instrument is used in a manner not

specified by Epredia the protection
This instrument, as supplied, provided by the instrument may be
conforms to IEC61010-1 however, impaired.
the addition of chemicals introduces • Any problems and queries should be
potential hazards. Good Laboratory referred to your Epredia supplier.
Practice must be employed, and
• Only use cleaning agents recommended
consideration must be given to the
in the Operator Guide.
potential for hazard when dealing with
these chemicals.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 6

Safe Setup Optical Laser Safety
The following sections contain important INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION
information for the safe setup and use of the AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE
instrument and should be read and understood TO DIRECT OR SCATTERED
by the user before using the instrument. RADIATION CLASS 1 LASER
PRODUCT,
Electrical Safety
• The laser beam Exits the Final lens
• The main power cord for the SlideMate 11.54cm above the slide while it is in the
Laser Printer must be plugged into marking position.
earthed outlet only. Only use the power • Never attempt to operate the SlideMate
cord provided with this product. Laser Printer without the protective
• Be sure to position the SlideMate Laser covers in place.
Printer to allow for easy removal of the • Never attempt to override any of the
main power cord from the back panel. safety interlocks on the instruments.

Mechanical Safety • Never attempt to dismantle or repair the

laser head. In case of malfunction
• Never attempt to operate the SlideMate contact a Epredia Service
Laser Printer without the protective representative.
covers in place.
• Any of the actions mentioned above may
• Never attempt to override any of the result in permanent eye or skin damage.
safety interlocks on the instrument. Refer to Appendix A for more information
• As well as the class 4 laser, the on laser safety.
instrument also contains moving • Always switch off the laser source or
machinery that can cause injury to the operate on the interlock key positioned
user if the advice in this operator guide is at the back of the unit when adjustment
not followed. and/or maintenance are carried out on
the laser source and its optical chain.
FCC
• Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 7

EMC Statement Warranty Statement
This equipment complies with the emissions and Epredia is proud of their quality, reliability and of
immunity requirements of EN 61326-1. our after-sales service. We continuously strive to
improve our service to our customers.
This equipment has been designed and tested to
CISPR 11 Class A. Please ask your distributor or Epredia
representative about service contracts which can
It is intended for use in a laboratory environment
help maintain your instrument in an optimal
by a trained and qualified professional. In a
operating condition.
domestic environment it may cause radio
interference, in which case it may be necessary Warranty provisions necessarily vary to comply
to take measures to mitigate the interference. with differences in national and regional
legislation. Specific details can be found in the
Environment delivery documentation or from your dealer or
representative.
This instrument is required to comply with the
European Union's Waste Electrical and Electronic Please note that your warranty may be
Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2012/19/EU. It is invalidated if:
marked with the following symbol: • This instrument is modified in any way,
or not used as intended by Epredia.
• Accessories and reagents which have
not been approved by Epredia are used.
• The instrument is not operated or
maintained in accordance with
Epredia has contracts with one or more recycling instructions.
/ disposal companies in each EU Member State, • The installation of the instrument was not
and this product and packaging should be conducted by a certified Epredia
disposed of or recycled through them. For further representative.
information, contact your Epredia service
representative.
Any serious incident that has occurred in
relation to the device shall be reported to
the manufacturer and the competent
authority of the Member State in which the
user/or the patient resides.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 8

How to use this
Guide
Introduction Chapter Summary
This document contains basic information on the This Operator Guide is structured to let you start
use and operation of SlideMate Laser Printer and processing quickly and safely with SlideMate
assumes you have received basic training on the Laser Printer.
instrument. Please contact your Epredia
Chapter 1 - Introducing the SlideMate Laser
representative for information not provided in this
Printer.
manual. Before operating the SlideMate Laser
Printer, ensure that you have read and This chapter gives a tour of the instrument and its
understood the Safety Information and the features. It describes the different parts of the
relevant sections in this Operator Guide. instrument and gives general information about
using SlideMate Laser Printer.
Chapter 2 – Installation and Set Up

This chapter is a guide to installing and setting up

SlideMate Laser Printer.

Chapter 3 - User Interface

This chapter describes process of how to setup

the software.

Chapter 4 – Troubleshooting

This chapter is intended to help identify and

resolve common faults and issues.

Chapter 5 – Cleaning and Maintenance

This chapter describes how to clean and maintain
the SlideMate Laser Printer.
Appendices

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 9

Chapter 1 -
Introducing the
SlideMate Laser
Printer
Welcome to the Introduction to SlideMate Laser SlideMate laser is a high-resolution, dual hopper
Printer. histology microscope slide printer that generates
unique alphanumeric characters, symbols and
This chapter introduces SlideMate Laser Printer
barcodes (2D and linear) onto Epredia-approved
and provides an overview of the instrument.
slides, reducing errors in misidentification caused
The following subjects are covered: by illegible handwriting or faded ink from thermal
• Introduction printing.

• Identification of parts Laser histology microscope slide printer with 2

• LED Indicators hoppers holding 72 slides each (144 total).
SlideMate Laser produces a dark permanent
• Scanner and Printer Operation
indelible marking onto Epredia-approved
• System specifications microscope slides. SlideMate Laser is
manufactured with high-quality components built
to last, it is simple to use and improves sample
and patient management in anatomic pathology
labs and is optimised only for on-demand
printing.

This product can only be used with

Epredia ‘SlideMate Laser Slides, the use
of other slides on this product may cause
damage to the instrument, the use of a
non-laser slide will result in the failure to
print information.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 10

Identification of Parts
The following diagrams identify the different
components of SlideMate Laser Printer.

1. Interlock Key
To activate the laser, the interlock must be
turned from the off position to the on position.

2. ON/OFF Switch
Powers the instrument on and off.
3. Power Supply
The provided power supply needs to be
connected to this point on the back plate to
supply the instrument with power.
4. Remote Interlock (AUX)
Enables remote interlock control.
5. Ethernet Port - Internet / LIS Connectivity
Internet connection is to be connected to this
point.
6. HDMI Port
HDMI cables can be connected to the
instrument through this port.
7. USB Ports
USB Port: The SlideMate Laser has 2 USB
ports.
8. Dust Filter
Refer to the Maintenance section for
information on filter maintenance.

9. Serial Number

LED Indicators

LED MEANING
Instrument is READY to print/ printing.
RUN

Instrument is in a PAUSE state PAUSE

Instrument is in ERROR state. If it is ERROR

blinking, operator must verify the
problem and try to fix it

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 11

Scanner Printer Operation
The barcode scanner mounted under the left The front of the unit is a high-definition,
front edge of the screen of the slide printer uses touchscreen display. To operate the unit, press
an LED light source requiring no special eye specific areas of the screen to activate buttons
protection during use of the scanner. The and functions; these functions are intended to be
scanner has a special motion sensor that obvious.
activates the scanner function and illumination. If
Barcodes printed on paper or other objects can
the sensor sees no motion for a period, the
be placed under the scanner for decoding. The
illumination will cycle off - the area under the
barcode scanner intentionally reads only specific
scanner will remain dark. When in this standby
symbols, by default, Datamatrix, QR and Code
mode, the motion sensor continues to monitor
128 will be decoded.
the area and will come out of standby mode as
the Datamatrix code, QR code and Code 128 Before attempting to print slides, the hoppers will
barcodes by default. need to be filled with slides, please refer to
Appendix G to see the list of approved slide types
in the operator guide.

The slides must be loaded with the writing

surface facing up. The slides when loaded
correctly should lay flat in the hopper; there are
finger slots on each side of the hopper to make
loading easier.

It is not possible to load slides while the printer is

in operation.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 12

System Specifications
The specifications of the SlideMate Laser Printer instrument is shown in the following table.

Use safe lifting practices when moving the instrument. SlideMate Laser Printer weighs
approximately 21 kg (47 lb). Help may be required to ensure safe lifting.

Item Description
Communication Port USB

Compatible Barcodes Data Matrix,

QR code,
Code 128,
Dimensions L 456mm (with chutes)/ 404mm (without
chutes) x W 335mm x H387.15mm.
Hopper Capacity 2x hopper of 72, Total 144
SlideMate Laser can hold 2 different types of
Microscope slides
Included Components SlideMate Laser Printer, Power cord, Key,
2 X Hopper, 2 X Chute, Stylus
Max sound level 55dBA
Maximum Altitude 2500m (8202 ft)

Maximum Power Capacity 70w

Operating Temperature Range/Humidity 15°C to 35°C (59 to 95 °F)
10% to 80% non-condensing
Over Voltage Category II
Pollution degree 2
Power Draw (Fuses) 120V 4 Amps / 240V 3 Amps

Power Supply 100V-240V, 50/60 Hz ±10%, output 24VDC 5A

100-240Vac (max range of 90 to 264Vac)
Printing Colour Monochromatic black

Printing Laser YAG Class 4 Sealed Laser - 3 Watts 1064µm

wavelength, with the addition of the protective covers
the laser classification is reduced to a ‘CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
Printing Resolution 600 dpi
Printing Speed Up to 15 slides per minute
All Epredia Laser Microscope slides
Slide Capability 25 x 75 x 1mm, 1 x 3 in

Slide Delivery Frontal Chute

Net Weight 20.7kg

Gross Weight 28kg

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 13

Chapter 2 –
Installation and
Setup
This chapter describes the installation and setup
procedures for SlideMate Laser Printer and
covers the following subjects:

• Unpacking and moving the instrument.

• SlideMate Laser Printer Accessories
• Setting up the Electrical Connections
• Locating the printer
• Loading Slides.
• Slide selection

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 14

Unpacking and Moving the
Instrument
Unpacking
Inspect the packaging. If it is damaged, or the
contents do not match the supplied packing list,
or both, inform your local Epredia representative
then unpack the instrument and inspect it
carefully. Instructions for unpacking are provided
on the packing case.
Ensure that you have all parts on the packing list.
If parts are missing or broken, contact your local
Epredia representative.

Note
Quote the instrument Serial Number, your Order
Number, Invoice Number, Delivery Note (or
Packing Slip) Number and the Date in all
communications. If you need to transport the
instrument, repack using the packaging the
product was delivered in.

Serial Number 7000–D–022–1022

Product Revision Sequence Month &

Type No Year
7000 D 022 1022

To unpack the SlideMate Laser Printer:

Installation requires 2 people. Each person should
pick up one end of the Slide Printer and carefully
lift it out of the box.
1. The SlideMate Laser Printer is packaged in a
cardboard box. Loosen the two straps, cut the
packing tape longitudinally. Once unpacked
the instrument may be transported only in
upright position.

2. Gently move the instrument to the operating

area and place it on a stable laboratory bench
and practically vibration-free floor. Lift out the
Printer and the surrounding foam pieces and
place onto a suitable level surface.

Note
Make sure you retain the packaging including
the inner packaging.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 15

SlideMate Laser Printer Accessories
2 x Slide collector, Single Slide Chute Chute

2 x Slide holder, Slide Hopper. Front view of hopper.

Note: Ensure chutes are correctly located on

retaining pins.- Chutes to be pushed downwards on
pins and aligned vertically.

Retaining pins

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 16

Setting up the Electrical Connections
SlideMate Laser Connection: Locating the Printer
SlideMate Laser must be located on a level
surface capable of supporting the weight of the
instrument.

SlideMate Laser should be positioned so that it

has a minimum of 100 mm (4 in) gap on all sides
to guarantee enough ventilation. Multiple
printers must be located not less than 1m apart.

The SlideMate Laser can select between two

on-board slide hoppers and one manual load
position. Prior to use, the two on-board slide
hoppers should be loaded with slides.

The slide hoppers have a capacity of

approximately 72 slides. The slides should never
be stacked above the top of the hopper as they
could fall from the top if stacked too high. The
slide hoppers will need to be inserted into the
drawer of the SlideMate Laser. The two hoppers
are identical and can be placed on either the left
or right side of the printer.
1. Position the instrument such that it is
possible to interrupt the Mains supply at the
source by removing the plug from the
socket.

2. Connect the Power Lead to the Power

Connector and then plug it in to a suitably
rated Mains Power Supply. The length of the
Mains Cord should not be greater than 3m.

3. Insert the interlock key and turn to the ON

position.
Press the power button, wait for the printer
to run through its initialisation process.

4. This instrument is supplied with a suitable

power cables. If an alternative plug is
required. Call Epredia Service Department

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 17

Loading the Slides
The SlideMate Laser can select between two 1. Pick up approximately 10 slides, the
on-board slide hoppers and one manual load painted end of the slide should be facing
position. Prior to use, the two on-board slide up.
hoppers should be loaded with slides.
2. Keep the stack parallel to the bottom of
The slide hoppers have a capacity of the hopper and lower the slides into the
approximately 72 slides. The slides should hopper.
never be stacked above the top of the hopper
as they could fall from the top if stacked too
high. The slide hoppers will need to be inserted
into the drawer of the SlideMate Laser. The
two hoppers are identical and can be placed
on either the left or right side of the printer.

To load slides into the hopper:

Note: Use gloves or take adequate care

when handling slides.
Note: It is not recommended to load
slides with tissue samples.

3. Once the slides are near the bottom of the

hopper, slightly tilt the stack down at a
slight angle allowing the tab end to
contact the bottom of the hopper first.

Remove the slides from packaging box

and insert into the hopper as per
LaserMate Slide packaging instructions.
Ensure the slide is in the correct position:
tab end towards the front of the hopper
(as shown below) and with the tab facing
upwards.
Front View of Hopper

The colour-end of the slide (tab) should be

to the front of the hopper with the writing
surface up. When the slides contact the
bottom of the hopper, release the slides;
they should flat into the hopper.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 18

4. Add additional slides as necessary until Slide Selection
the hopper is full - the slides should never
This operator guide includes a list of Epredia
be stacked higher than the top of the
laser slides which have been tested and are
hopper. Once slides have been placed
approved for use in the SlideMate Laser. Slides
into the hoppers, press the 'Open' button
that are not listed in this manual as approved
to release the front drawer and insert the
for use in the SlideMate Laser printer may fail
hoppers in position. The Door Open pop
to produce legible printed information. A List of
up should appear on the screen, place the
Approved slides can be found in the Appendix
hoppers into the correct position and
G.
close the drawer. After 20 seconds the
door open pop up will disappear and the
printer will be ready for use. The Home
Screen should display hoppers are
present.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 19

Chapter 3 - User
Interface
This chapter describes process of how-to
setup the software. This will include the
following:

• User Mode – Adding a New User as

Admin (Only for trained personnel)
• User Log in
• Home Screen
• Hopper Status
• Settings
• About menu
• Language selection
• Time and Date
• Queue Management
• Layouts
• Setting Up Parser Barcodes (Only for
trained personnel)
• Setting UP Parser LIS (Only for
trained personnel)
• List (Only for trained personnel)
• Panels (Only for trained personnel)
• Adding Data Entries/ Printing Slides
• Manually Loading a Slide
• Printer Settings (Only for trained
personnel)
• Keyboard Pop Up
• Import-Export machine setup

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 20

User Mode – Adding a New
User

Only for trained personnel 4. A pop up should appear stating the new user
has been added.
To add a new user as an Admin:
1. From the Menu page, select ‘Manage Users’

5. The new user can then Login using the

Username and Password they have just
created through the user login icon.
2. The Manage User screen should appear,
select ‘New Power User’.

3. Enter a new username and password then

select ‘Register User’.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 21

To delete a User To change passwords
1. In Manage Users, select the User you would 1. In Manage Users, select the User you would
like to edit. like to edit.

2. A panel should appear on the right. 2. Type the new password into the text fie

3. To delete the user, select ‘Delete User’ and 3. Select `Change Password’ then confirm the
‘Confirm’. change.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 22

User Login

To Login To Logout
1. Select the Login icon From the settings menu, select the 'Logout' icon

2. Enter Username and Password, then 'Login'

3. If Login has been successful the home

screen should be displayed.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 23

Home Screen
The home screen is used to display the status of
the slide hoppers, add new Data Entries and
control printing.

Button Description Icon

Menu Opens the menu

Home Opens the Home Screen

Power Powers down the printer.

button

Keyboard Enables the pop-up keyboard.

button

New Slide Opens the data entry screen

Queue Opens the print queue

Pause/Play Enables the user to pause, then

play the printing on that specific
side.

Hopper Displays the quantity of slides in

Quantity the hopper, it will indicate when
hopper levels are ≤ 5, empty and
when no hopper has been
detected. See Hopper Status
Section for details/ images.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 24

Hopper Status
The home screen displays the current status of the
slides in the hopper / hopper presence.

If no hoppers are present. If hoppers are full / above low levels.

If hoppers are below 29 slides the slide count is

Only left side of the hopper present. shown as going down.

Only right side hopper present. If 5 slides are remaining in the hopper the
following is shown.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 25

If the hopper is empty, you have the option to
transfer your remaining queue to the other
hopper if the current hopper in use runs out of
slide.

This can be done by pressing the button show

in the red square.

This function is only available if

the same type of slides are in the
other hopper.

Once the transfer of slide to the other hopper

is complete, a pop up should appear that the
remaining slides have been transferred to the
other motor (to the other side).

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 26

 Settings
There are three user menu settings. The settings Setting Menu (top left icon) - Takes the user to
menu is dependent upon the user level. the Menu screen. When any of the settings menu
icons are pressed, the appropriate menu item will
The Admin settings menu page.
open. As a Power User the settings menu will
Only accessible for trained personnel
display: Queue, Data Entries , Layouts, Parser
LIS, Parser Barcode, Time/Date, Select
Language, Logout.

• Time/Date - Here the time and date can

be adjusted to suit the users location.
• Languages - Provides the ability to
change the displayed language. The
default language is English. To select a
different language; select the Globe
(Select Language) icon and choose the
The Power settings menu page
desired language and then confirm
(images needed).
• Queue – From the Queue button you
can manage the current printing queue.
• Data Entry – The Data Entry button
enables manual and scanned data entry
for slide printing.
• Layouts – From the Layouts button,
layouts can be deleted, edited or new
layouts can be added.
• Parser LIS – from Parser LIS button,
parsers for LIS can be deleted, edited,
The Default menu page or added.
• Parser Barcode – from Parser Barcode
button, parsers for Barcodes can be
deleted, edited or added.
• About - The About icon shows
information about your SlideMate Laser
product; the software version, computer
name and the printers serial number.
• Filter change – From the filter change
button the filter can be replaced at a
convenient time

• Home Button - When pressed from any

screen the main printing screen will be
displayed.
• Back Button - When pressed the
previous software screen will be
displayed.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 27

About Menu Language selection
The about menu provides information regarding 1. To set the Language, press the Language
the printer’s software and general information. select icon.
The About Menu shows

• Software version
• Computer name
• Serial number

2. Then select required language.

3. Select Confirm to change the language

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 28

Setting Time & Date
Time Date
1. To set the Time, press the Time/Date icon 1. To set the Date, press the Time/Date icon

2. To change the date:

2. In the time and date screen: To adjust the
time: Use the large arrows to increase / • Select the date section
decrease the hours/minutes accordingly (it is • Select the desired date from the pop up
required to scroll through all of the minutes to calendar.
be able to change the hour).

3. Press Confirm to set date

3. Once time is set select Confirm to make the
changes.

• There is the option to select / deselect the

use of 24 hour time.
• Change the time zone
• After making any changes, press Confirm
to apply the change.

Note
The Date is displayed at the bottom right of
the screen in the following format:
dd/mm/yyyy

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 29

Queue Management
Queue – From the Queue button from either This information is only stored for 5 minutes
the Main Home screen or the Settings Menu, after the slide was printed. After this the stored
you can manage the current printing queue. information is deleted.

1. To reprint the slides :

2. Select the All Printed Slides button.

From this screen the queue can be filtered by

hopper as well as by searching for keywords.

3. Select the information that requires

reprinting.

Note
Only one slide can be reprinted at one time

Individual slides can be deleted by selecting

the tick boxes and then pressing the ‘Delete
Selected’ button.

4. Then select the Redo Print button, as

All slides can be deleted by pressing the soon as this button is pressed the
‘Delete All’ button following pop up will appear and the Data
Entries is added to the print queue.

Additionally, slides previously printed can be

viewed by selecting the ‘All Printed Slides’
button. From here individual slides can be
selected and re printed.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 30

Layouts
Only for trained personnel The item can be:

On the Setting Menu select the Layouts • Text

button, layouts can be deleted, edited or new • A Linear 2D Barcode
layouts can be added. • An Image
• A List

To add a layout
• Select the ‘New’ button
The item can be edited in height, width, pen
darkness, font, style, text length an value.
These can be reset to their default values by
selecting the Reset button in the top right.

The layout editor screen will open

The position of the item can be adjusted using

the arrows. Selecting ‘Coarse’ moves the item
in large movements were as ‘Fine’ moves the
item in small increments.

To add an item to the layout, select the New

Item button:

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 31

Adding in 3 items – Item 3 can be used to store To save the layout, scroll down to the bottom
information about the minor group of the editor screen. Enter a layout name and
then select save.

If 4 items are added – Item 4 can be used to

store information about the major group A pop up indicating the save has been
successful should appear.

To delete an item, select the Item from the side

panel and then select ‘Delete’. Click the back arrow to view the main layout
page; the new layout should appear in the list
of layouts.

To print a sample of the layout, select the

‘Print’ button. Then follow the on-screen
prompts for manual printing.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 32

To delete a layout Items explained
• Select the layout to be deleted and select Type options:
the Delete button.
Text = standard text item
• A pop up asking whether to confirm the
Linear_2D = Set barcode type and size
deletion should appear.
• Selecting Confirm will delete the layout. Image- = Set logo size

To edit a layout List = Set Drop down menu for list to use -stains
etc..
• Select the layout to be edited then select
the ‘Edit’ button. LIS_image = set Image file size sent from LIS
• The layout will then open in the editor software
window enabling editing. • Width Options:
• To save the layout scroll down and select This adjusts the width in mm +/-
the Save button.
• Height Options:
• To receive a sample print of the edited
layout select the Print button. This adjusts the Height in mm +/-

• Pen Darkness Options:

This is darkness of the print on the slide -

Standard/Light/Bold

• Font options:
This is the item text font

• Arial /Times_New_Roman
Style Type Options:

• This is Standard text or Italic text

Text Length Options:

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 33

Create a new Parser Barcode
This option is only accessible to trained
people

To setup a parser a cassette with a printed

barcode will be needed from the customer

1. From the home screen, select menu/login

and type username and password

2. Select Menu again from the home screen

to now access the Parser Barcode icon

3. Select New

4. Scroll down to the Sample input box and

select the window, then scan the cassette
barcode into the printer barcode reader

5. Using the delimited parser commands

complete the Items information

6. This will move the information from the

parser into the layout (Template) Item
positions

ITEM_1+"-"+ITEM_2+"-"+ITEM_3+"-"+ITEM_4+”-“+ITEM_5

7. Complete the Options as shown below

with the name of the Layout to be used.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 34

8. Select The Test icon and the below window
will be shown to confirm the information is
correct.

9. Check there are no error messages shown, if

a command error is displayed, check there
are no spelling mistakes in the Items window.

10. Save the parser by typing the parser name

into the parser name window and select
save Parser.

11. Set the active Barcode Parser:

12. From the home screen select Menu and the

Settings icon

13. Save the parser by typing the parser name

into the parser name window and select
save Parser.

14. Select save settings and confirm, this will

close the software and open again
automatically.

15. Based on the parser a template will need to

have the same amount of items on the
template for the parser to import data into

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 35

Create a new LIS parser:
This option is only accessible to trained
people.

To setup a parser an example text file from

the LIS will be needed.

1. From the home screen, select Menu/login

and type username and password.

2. Select Menu again from the home screen

to now access the Parser LIS icon

3. Select New

4. Using this LIS data string as an example

23-12345-A-1-Smith-0-
23,12345,A,1,Smith

5. Type this information into the Sample

input window.

6. Using the delimited parser commands

complete the items information.

7. This is for the information from the data

string that will be printed on the slide.

8. Adding the hopper information.

9. Position 6 in the data string is the hopper

command :

23-12345-A-1-Smith-0-23,12345,A,1,Smith

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 36

10. Within the Mode mapping windows, type
the hopper commands that the data string
will use for each hopper (it will be 1 and 0 in
this example)

11. Within the Options Mode window set the

position within the data string line to find the
hopper command

12. Within the Options SamlightFile window set

the name of the Layout that the parser will
link with

13. To Test:
Select the Test Icon, if all is setup correct
the information is show below, if there is an
error message, check the data has been
correctly typed.

14. Save the parser by typing the parser name into the
parser name window and select save Parser.

15. Select the home icon.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 37

Map a network drive from the printer
Note: This is an example of mapping and some
customers may want to map from there new work
to the printer

1. On the external PC, create a folder that the LIS will

drop files into and right click on the folder to select
Properties.

2. Select sharing and select share.

3. From the dropdown menu select Everyone and make

it Read/Write PC and password.

4. Close the open windows down.

5. To check the IP address of the external PC, open

command prompt and type ipconfig.

6. IP address shown in the list next to IPv4 Address, note

this down.

7. On the SlideMate, plug an external keyboard into the

printer and power on.

8. Select Ctrl/Alt/Del and select sign out.

9. Left click the mouse and select the Admin user.

10. Type the password.

11. Within Command Prompt type explorer and select

enter.

12. Minus Command Prompt and now Windows is

available.
13. Open file explorer and right click on This PC and
select map network drive.

14. Type the location \\192.168.0.101\folder name (this

is the external PC IP and folder to share to)

15. Select ‘Remember my credentials’

16. Type the account and password of the external PC.

17. Close the SlideMate down.

18. Power on the SlideMate.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 38

Setting for LIS cache folder:
1. From the home screen select Menu/login Manual print:
and type the username and password
If no slides are manually printed from the LIS
2. Select Menu again and select the settings then do not enter and into the Options manual
icon. print window

3. Adjust the folder position that the LIS If slides are going to be printed from the LIS
software will drop the files into that will be manually printed, the data string will
need a manual print command
\\192.168.0.101\folder
In this example the manual print option is
shown in red 22-12345-A-1-Smith-0-
4. Set the Active LIS parser by using the 22,12345,A,1,Smith-1
drop down menu
Set Boolean mapping to 1

5. Select save settings and confirm, this will

close the software and open again Within the data string the manual print
automatically information is located in position 8

Enter this into the Options Manual Print

window.
6. Based on the parser a template will need
to have the same amount of items on the
template for the parser to import data into.

Further options:

There are other options that can be fixed in the Template change
parser or included into the data string
1. If the LIS requires more than one template
to be used the template can be set

2. In this example the template is shown in

red within the data string

22-12345-A-2-Smith-0-12345,A,2,Smith-
Template1

3. This is position 8 within the data string

4. Enter this information into the Options

SamLight File window
List
Only for trained personnel The List Item can then be renamed by
selecting the text field and using the keyboard
Logged in as Admin
feature.
• Select the List Icon from the Menu Add the desired number of list items.
screen to access the Lists Menu.

Within this screen Lists can be created, edited The order of the list can be changed by using
or deleted. the arrows to the side of the list item.

To Create a New List

• Select, + New

The item can also be removed from the list by

using the delete icon.

Then in the New List creation page,

• Select the +Item button to add an Item

into the List

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 40

Then name the list and select Save List 5. Select ‘Add list’ and use the drop down to
select the list create.

6. Select the ‘Save’ icon

A pop-up message will appear to indicate the

list has been saved.

Once saved the List will appear in the Lists

Menu screen.

1. Select the ‘Home’ icon and then the

‘menu’ icon.

2. Select the ‘Layouts’ icon and then select

the Layout you want to add the list into

3. Select the ‘Edit’ icon

4. Select the item name that will be a drop

down list on the layout.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 41

Panels
This option is only accessible to trained people

1. From the home screen, select menu/login 20. Once finished all the parser stains, select the
and type username and password home icon and then the Panels icon

2. Select Menu again from the home screen to 21. Select New icon
now access the Settings icon
22. Select +item icon and select the first stain
3. Scroll down to Chute and Hopper options parser to be use in the panel

4. Select the tick boxes Separate and Different 23. Select +icon and select the second stain
parser to be used in the panel
5. Scroll to the bottom and select Save
Settings and wait for the software to reset 24. Continue for all stains to be included within
the panel
6. A Layout and parser should already created
25. Once complete, type the name of the panel
7. Make sure the layout includes an Item
into the ‘Panel Name’ Window
position for the stain to be printed
26. Now the panel is complete
8. No further adjustment are needed to the
above 27. Select Home and test the panel works

9. Open the parser being used for the layout 28. Scan the cassette barcode and Select the
Panels icon
10. For the item that is used for the stain, type
the stain name into speech marks 29. Select the Panel to be used and select the
Print icon.
11. Decide which hopper to print the slide from
and type this into the Options/Mode window
“LEFT” or “RIGHT”

12. Add the stain item into the barcode if needed

13. Save the parser with the same stain name

14. Each slide within the panel will need its own
parser

15. Click into the item for the next stain name
and add the stain name to be printed

16. Add the stain item into the barcode item

window- if needed

17. Decide which hopper to print the slide from

and type this into the Options/Mode window
“LEFT” or “RIGHT”

18. Save the parser with the stain name to print

on the slide

19. Continue as above so a parser is created for

each stain to be printed on the slide

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 42

Adding New Slide / Printing
Slides
Printing Slides • The requested slides will either be
printed straight away or if printing is
already underway the slides requested
will be added to the print queue.
Note
Item 3 is to be used to store Minor Group
information, typically numerical or alphabetical
information. The Minor Group information can
be edited and enabled by ticking the Minor
Group tick box which enables To and From
data to be entered (e.g. 1 – 10 or A to H)
Enter the Data Entry screen, either from the
Home screen or the Data Entry icon.

From this page select:

• Layout, from the drop down menu Item 4 is to be used to store Major Group
information. The Major Group information can
• Whether the slide is a priority be edited and enabled by ticking the Major
• A manual load Group tick box which enables To and From
data to be entered
• Define the Major and Minor Group
• Input the text into the text fields

After 10 slides have been printed and

dispensed, printing will pause enabling the
chute to be cleared before printing is to be
resumed. A pop up showing that the chute is
full will appear, clear the chute of the slides
and select 'Empty' to resume printing, if
'Empty' is not selected, the printer will remain
in a paused state.

If the chute exceeds the 10 slide

capacity, there is risk of slides
breaking upon ejection.

To Print
Ensure Parser Barcodes and Layouts are
already predefined.
Then either:

• Scan a barcode, which automatically

defines all of the text fields.
• Or manually input information into the
desired text fields.
• Once all data has been input, select
either Print Left or Print Right button.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 43

To Print Including Lists 3. Press print

If a List is desired, in the Data Entry screen

under Layout, select a Layout containing a List
Item

If a List Item is present within the chosen

layout, the List drop down menu will become
visible. Then from this drop down menu select
the required List.

If the chute exceeds the 10 slide

To Print a Panel capacity, there is risk of slides
1. From the Data Entry screen, select the breaking upon ejection.
Panels button.

2. Then from the drop down menu select the

desired panel.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 44

Manually Loading a Slide
Manual Print 4. After selecting Print, printing will take
1. After following the above instructions place.
(Creating a new Data Entry), if the manual
load box has been ticked, once Confirm is
selected the following prompt to insert a
slide will occur:

Ensure the slide is entered tab first

and the tab facing up.

5. Once printing is complete the onscreen

message will prompt the removal of the
slide.

2. Follow the on-screen prompt to achieve

manual printing.

6. If the slide is removed too soon a pop up

will be displayed. There is then the option
to reprint this slide or continue without
reprinting.

3. Once the slide is in position, the option to

Print will appear.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 45

Printer Settings
Only for trained personnel • The slide type being used in the
hoppers can be defined as:
Logged in as an Admin - available from the
settings menu - Settings Cog Icon The same type of glass in both hoppers
• Or different glass being used in the
hoppers (adhesion / non adhesion)

• LIS Preparser can be set to:

• Keep Multi Lines Together
OR

Last to First
• The maximum length of barcode
parsers, QR layouts, Datamatrix’s and
the Barcode Layouts are all displayed.
From ‘Active Parsers and Layouts’ the current
Within the settings page, the set up of the
active Parser LIS, Parser Barcode and Image
printer can be adjusted.
LIS Layout are displayed. Using the drop down
Firstly, paths can be defined this includes arrows next to each section they can be
paths for: changed.
• LIS
Network and Device Information - This shows
• Images
the Computer Name and the current Network
• Layouts
Status.
• Samlight
Information Stored in Memory – this details the
• Service Interval is also visible
serial number, samlight license, the serial
• COM ports for the internal barcode
number of the laser and the software version.
reader and the mainboard are also
visible To edit any of these select ‘Modify Memory’,
• The printers Serial Number will also be text fields should appear
stated. • To save the changes select ‘Write
Chute and Hopper Options Memory’ to save and store these
changes
• The chute capacity can altered, this
will change how many slides will be • After making any changes to the
printed and dispensed before printing settings select ‘Save Settings’
is paused prompting the clearing of
the chute. • Any changes to the settings required
• The chute full pause can also be the instrument to reboot, the prompt
switched off by ticking the tick boxes enabling a system reboot will occur
in the Full Pause section.
• Selecting Confirm will result in a
The chute output can be changed to
reboot. Selecting Cancel will cancel
Separate (individual right and left chutes, the settings change.
9001645 accessories)

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 46

Keyboard Pop Up
To activate the on screen keyboard, select the
Keyboard button at the top of the screen. A
pop up keyboard should appear enabling
manual data entry when required.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 47

Import-Export machine setup
This option is only accessible to trained people

Exporting a setup: Importing a setup:

1. From the Home screen, Select the Menu 1. From the Home screen, Select the Menu
icon and then the login icon. icon and then the login icon.
2. Login as an administrator 2. Login as an administrator
3. Select the menu icon and select the 3. Select the menu icon and select the
Import/Export icon. Import/Export icon.

4. Place a USB stick into the any USB socket 4. Place a USB stick into the any USB socket
on the back panel of the printer. on the back panel of the printer.
5. Select the Export icon 5. Select the import icon

• A message will say the settings have 6. Select Scan

been exported to the USB stick in the
format of :
Serial number-date-time-Slidemate Laser The import file will be displayed on the
settings.fsz (example below) screen , if there are more than one setup file,
all will be shown that is available to import
to select from.

7. Highlight the file to import and select the

6. Remove the USB stick from the printer- copy icon
export completed.

Note:
8. Select confirm to import the setup. The
Path names/Serial numbers/Licences/IP software will close and open with the setup
addresses are not included within the export. imported.

9. Add and IP addresses or path names for LIS

connections.

10. Remove the USB stick.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 48

Chapter 4 –
Troubleshooting
This chapter describes how to troubleshoot
problems that may occur when using SlideMate
Laser Printer and covers the following subjects:

• Troubleshooting Table
• Error Message Table
• Icon Glossary

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 49

Troubleshooting Table
Table 1

Error / Symptom Possible Cause Remedy

Connect the mains lead to the
Mains lead is not connected. instrument, refer to Getting
Started procedure.
Screen is black on switch on
Mains socket is not switched Switch on the mains socket.
on.
Call Epredia Service Department
Fuses in mains lead have blown.
Reset the instrument by turning
Touch screen does not respond it off then back on. If fault
Touch screen may be faulty.
to touch persists then call the Epredia
Service Department.

The slides may have been Check the slides are correctly
inserted back to front oriented in the instrument.
Instrument does not print
Check you are using the
correctly onto the slide The slides being used may not
approved slides in the
be approved for us on the
instrument refer to Appendix G
instrument
for approved slides.

Check you are using the

The slides being used may not
approved slides in the
be approved for us on the
instrument refer to Appendix G
instrument.
Slides jam in the instrument for approved slides.

There may be an obstruction in Carefully attempt to remove the

the slide delivery mechanism. obstruction.

Printing faded Diode lifespan degrading. Call Epredia Service Department

Failure of the motors that drive Call Epredia Service Department

Motor failure pop up
the delivery system.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 50

Error Message Table
Table 2

Error Resolution

Initialisation Error First attempt to re initialise the printer, if the issue persists then
click on 'Open Settings' check the parameters within the
settings page and input correctly and the paths for the files are
correct, then save the changes and restart the printer.

Invalid Barcode Scan Ensure that the barcode being scanned does not contain more
than the maximum character limits. Ensure that the correct
barcode parser is being used in the Settings screen.
If the issue persists, manually enter the data to be printed in
the Data Entry screen.

Laser Failure Restart the printer. If the error appears again call Epredia
Service Department.

Barcode Data Error Ensure that the barcode parser has been defined correctly.
The Data Entry screen will appear enabling manual entry of
the required data.

LIS Data Error Ensure that the LIS parser has been defined correctly.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 51

Error Resolution

Error after Testing the Parser with a Ensure that the LIS parser has been defined correctly check
Sample Input over the values input in the parser, ensuring all the desired
fields have been defined, whether they are required to be
capitals or lower case letters, if commas and semi colons have
been used correctly.

Parsing Error (While trying to add a Ensure that barcode parser has been defined correctly - check
Data Entry) over the values input in the parser, ensuring all the desired
fields have been defined, whether they are required to be
capitals or lower case letters, if commas and semi colons have
been used correctly.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 52

Icon Glossary

Queue Update

Data Entry Date & Time

Layouts Select Language

Parser LIS Logout

Parser Barcode About

Settings Panels

Simulation Lists

Service Filter Change

Reports

User

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 53

Chapter 5 –
Cleaning and
Maintenance
Cleaning and Maintenance
This chapter describes how to clean and maintain
the SlideMate Laser Printer. This covers the
following subjects:

• Cleaning
• Maintenance
 Weekly Maintenance
 Wipe Down
 Emptying the Debris Tray
 Removal Of Marking Dust
 Six months Maintenance
 Laser lens cleaning
 Mechanical testing
 Filter Maintenance

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 54

 Cleaning
• Only use cleaning agents recommended Emptying the Debris Tray
in the Operator Guide.
1. Remove the chutes from the front panel.
• Prevent liquids from entering the unit
while cleaning or during operation. 2. Remove the Debris Tray from under the
• Do not use harmful chemicals or printer by using the handle to pull out the
solvents such as pure alcohol, tray.
detergents containing alcohol, abrasive
cleaning powders, or organic solvents
containing xylene or acetone to clean the
instrument, it is recommended that a
mild detergent / 10% commercial
hypochlorite bleach solution in water is
used for cleaning of the covers.
• Do not wipe down or submerge the
hoppers or chutes with xylene. If these
parts come into contact with xylene
some cosmetic discolouration will occur. 3. Empty the contents in the Debris Tray into
a glass bin and sweep the inside of the
Maintenance tray to ensure all debris is cleared.

Weekly Maintenance 4. Return the tray to the original position.

It is important to carry out a weekly 5. Replace the chutes in the correct position
maintenance schedule as detailed below: on the front panel.
The laser process generates dust
that can be an irritant if inhaled.
We strongly recommend the use
of the proper PPE, for example mask,
gloves and safety glasses, when removing
dust and filters from the printer.
A weekly wipe down of the covers with mild
detergent/ 10% commercial hypochlorite bleach
solution in water along with a weekly brush down
to remove marking dust and to empty the debris
tray

Using the brush provided, sweep around the

hopper cradle, mouth of the hopper cradle, down
the slide rail path and underneath the bridge to
remove any dust build-up. Ensure the underside
of these areas are also cleaned. Dispose of dust
and debris in accordance with your local
regulations and procedures.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 55

Removal of Marking Dust
1. Open the door using the button found on 6. Wipe the outer casing of the instrument
the front panel. with a cloth and 10% hypochlorite bleach
solution.

Door Open
Button

2. If the hoppers are in the hopper cradle,

remove them from the SlideMate Laser.
Note
Do not remove any part(s) of the printer
3. Using the provided brush, sweep around
chassis to gain access for cleaning.
the hopper cradle, mouth of the hopper
cradle, down the slide rail path and
underneath the bridge to remove any dust
build-up. Ensure the underside of these
areas are also cleaned.

4. Brush down the hoppers, focusing on slot

where slides are ejected and return to the
hopper cradle.

5. Close the SlideMate Laser drawer and

remove the chutes. Brush down along the
inside of the chute to remove any dust
build-up and return the chutes to their
original position.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 56

Six months Maintenance
Please contact the Epredia Service Team for
regular service inspection which should be
planned every six months after installation for
laser lens cleaning and mechanical testing.

When service is required, the following pop up is

shown:

Do not to operate the machine

without the covers fitted. This is
because of a risk of mechanical injury
due to trapped fingers when the
mechanism is moving.
Also to prevent the risk of injury due
to exposure to laser energy either
directly or indirectly due to reflected
laser energy

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 57

Filter Maintenance
Replacing the filter will need the appropriate PPE Days before filter change
to be used as described within the filter change Note – Days are only checked once the printer is
document supplied with the replacement filter re-started
The filter needs to be replaced every 3000 prints
or 90 days
1st filter days notification message at 45 Days
The filter must be replaced only when
prompted by the software to do so. • Selecting change filter: Follow the on
screen instructions and then replace the
1st filter notification message at 2000 prints
filter.
A screen message will be displayed to Confirm • Selecting Cancel: Allows to continue
or Cancel the filter change. printing.
• Selecting change filter: Follow the on • If the printer is restarted the message to
screen instructions and then replace the Confirm or Cancel will be displayed
filter.
again.
• Selecting Cancel: Allows printer to
continue printing.
2nd filter days notification message at 90
• If the printer is restarted the message to
Days
Confirm or Cancel will be displayed
again.
• Selecting change filter: Follow the on
screen instructions and then replace the
2nd filter notification message at 2500 prints
filter.
A screen message will be displayed to Confirm
• Selecting Cancel: Allows printing to
or Cancel the filter change.
continue until 3000 prints have been
• Selecting change filter: Follow the on completed, then message is displayed
screen instructions and then replace the
again after every print for 10 more prints
filter.
and then the printer will not allow printing
• Selecting Cancel: Allows printer to
continue printing. to continue unless the filter is replaced.
• If the printer is restarted the message to • If the printer is restarted the message to
Confirm or Cancel will be displayed Confirm or Cancel will be displayed
again. again.

Final filter notification at 3000 prints

A screen message will be displayed to Confirm
or Cancel the filter change.
• Selecting change filter:
Follow the on screen instructions and
then replace the filter.

• Selecting Cancel:
Allows printing to continue, with the filter
change message being displayed after
every print for a grace period of 10
prints and then the printer will not allow
printing to continue unless the filter is
changed.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 58

Replacing the filter at any point in time
The filter can be replaced at a convenient time by
selecting the replace filter icon within the software

1. From the home screen, select the menu icon

2. Select the replace filter icon
3. Select Confirm to replace the filter or cancel

4. After the filter has been replaced the

counters are reset.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 59

Replacing the Filter
The filter pack is to be changed after 3,000 slides 4. Brush down the filter housing and around the
are printed for efficient performance. air extractor. Following guidelines for
handling the dust above.
1. The machine must be powered off following
the machine message to replace the filter

2. Remove the filter housing on the back of the

instrument by loosening x4 thumb screws.
Slide housing upwards to remove.

5. Place a new filter inside the housing and

return the filter housing to its original position
ensuring filter is secured in place. Dispose of
the used and bagged filters in accordance
with your local regulations and procedures.

3. Remove the filter insert from the housing.

Pushing from the rear and place used filter in
a bag before disposal. Do not attempt to
reuse the filter.

Note: -

Do not attempt to operate the instrument without

the filter & housing in place.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 60

Appendices
The appendices provide additional information
about your SlideMate Laser Printer.

The following subjects are covered:

Appendix A

• Laser Hazard Classification

• Control Measures for Laser
Classifications
• Biological Effects of Laser Irradiation
• Table of Control Measures
Appendix B
• Appendix Symbol Definition
Appendix C
• Labels Placement
Appendix D
• Warning for Users Diode Lifespan
Appendix E
• Disposal at the End of Lifecycle
Appendix F
• Part Numbers/Accessories
Appendix G
• List of approved Slides
Appendix H
• Parser Barcodes Explained

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 61

Appendix A
Class 2: This classification applies only to
Laser Hazard Classifications
continuous wave (CW) and repetitive-pulse lasers
The intent of laser hazard classification is to provide and laser systems of the visible part of the
clear distinction of the lasers’ properties and electromagnetic spectrum (400 – 700 nm) that
hazards to users so appropriate protective exceed Class 1 levels, but do not exceed an
measures can be taken. Classification is based on average radiant power of 1 mW.
the maximum output available for the intended use.
Specific labelling requirements indicate that the Class 3a: Lasers and laser systems that have an
class of the laser as well as the emission wave- accessible output between one and five times the
length(s) and any other applicable precautionary Class 1 AEL for wavelengths shorter than 400 nm
instructions must be included on any signage. Laser or longer than 700 nm, or less than five times the
classification is also used for determining Class 2 AEL for wavelengths between 400 and 700
requirements for medical surveillance for those nm. Lasers of this class have intermediate power
individuals working with and around lasers. ranges of 1 - 5 mW.
The Federal United States laser safety standard [21 Class 3b: Lasers and laser systems having the
CFR 1040.10], the ANSI standard [ANSI Z136.1], as power range between 5 - 500 mW. This applies to
well as the international standard [IEC 60825-1: lasers with wavelength ranges from Ultraviolet
2014], divide lasers into five distinct hazard through Far Infrared (180 nm – 100,000 nm +).
categories. These classes are based upon the These lasers or laser systems can produce a hazard
combination of wavelength range, power, and if viewed directly and may produce an eye hazard
emission duration, which are used to determine the when viewing diffuse reflections off a shiny surface
level of risk and the potential to cause biological at angles of less than 5 degrees from the source,
damage to the eye or skin. The definitions compiled however Class 3b lasers should not produce a
from ANSI Z136.1 are as follows: hazardous diffuse reflection from a matte (not shiny)
The SlideMate Laser Printer is rated as follows: surface.

ENCASED CLASS 4 LASER PRODUCT Class 4: Lasers and laser systems having power
greater than 500 mW. This applies to lasers with
Class 1: Any laser, or laser system containing a
laser, with wavelength ranges from Ultraviolet wavelength ranges from Ultraviolet through Far
through Far Infrared (180 nm – 100,000 nm +), that Infrared (180 nm – 100,000 nm +). This class of
cannot emit laser radiation levels exceeding Class 1 laser poses the greatest hazard, and any and all
Accessible Emission Limits (AEL) as defined by precautions should be taken to protect oneself from
ANSI Z136.1. For example, this would compute to exposure to direct or diffuse laser radiation. Direct
exposure (for an eight-hour period) for a 488-nm exposure to the eye from this class of laser can
laser of no greater than 0.2 mW. Basically, the laser cause permanent damage. Stray beams are
radiation level emitted by a device classified as potential fire hazards and combustible material
Class 1 produces no hazard whatsoever to the user should be kept out of beam paths at all times.
during normal operation.

Presently, Class 1 lasers and laser systems are

exempt from all control measures. The Class 1
designation does not apply during times of
maintenance or service where the safety controls of
the device are defeated or otherwise removed. The
Class 1 environment resumes once the device is
returned to its original state with all safety devices
properly reconnected.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 62

Control Measures for Laser Classifications Thermal Injury
ANSI Z136.1 requires specific control measures for The most common cause of laser-induced tissue
each laser classification and the environment in damage is thermal in nature, where the tissue
which they are used. The chart above lists some of proteins are denatured due to the temperature rise
the requirements that may need to be implemented following absorption of laser energy. The thermal
in a laboratory setting. The company Laser Safety damage process (resulting in burns) is generally
Officer, or designee, should reference the associated with lasers operating at exposure times
applicable safety regulations for appropriate control greater than 10 microseconds and in the
measures to implement in the area the instrument wavelength region from the near ultravioletError!
will be used. Bookmark not defined. to the far infrared. Tissue
damage may also be caused by thermally induced
acoustic waves following exposures to sub-
Biological Effects of Laser Irradiation microsecond laser exposures.

Eye Injury Skin Injury

Because of the high degree of beam collimation, a To the skin, UVA (315-400 nm) can cause
hyperpigmentation and erythema (aka: sunburn).
laser serves as an almost ideal point source of
Exposure in the UVB (280-315 nm) range is most
intense light. A laser beam of sufficient power can injurious to skin. In addition to thermal injury caused
theoretically produce retinal intensities at by ultraviolet energy, there is also possibility of
magnitudes that are greater than conventional light radiation carcinogenesis from UVB. The shorter
sources, and even larger than those produced wavelengths are absorbed in the outer dead layers
of the epidermis (stratum corneum) and the longer
when directly viewing the sun. Eye exposure to a
wavelengths have an initial pigment-darkening
direct beam can cause permanent eye damage effect followed by erythema if there is exposure to
including blindness. Protective eyewear should excessive levels. The hazards associated with skin
always be worn when potential exposure to direct exposure are of less importance than eye hazards;
laser beams exist. however, with the expanding use of higher-power
laser systems, particularly ultraviolet lasers, the
Due to the lens-like focusing effect of the human unprotected skin of personnel may be exposed to
eye, it is 100,000 times more vulnerable to injury extremely hazardous levels of the beam power if
than the skin. Laser safety eyewear should always used in an unenclosed system design.
be available for the wavelengths of lasers in use.
Skin burns caused by lasers can happen quite fast
Eye protective equipment, however, should be and with great intensity. Protective clothing should
considered the last line of defence against laser be worn when potential exposure to direct laser
beam exposure – engineering and administrative beams exist.
controls should be used first.
• UVC: 200-280 nm exposure may cause
Remove all jewellery when working with an open erythema (sunburn), skin cancer, and
beam to prevent reflection of the beam in unsafe burns.
directions.
• UVB: 280-315 nm exposure may cause
When possible, use all protective housings, accelerated skin aging, increased skin
interlocks and shields. pigmentation and burns.
Laser Safety Eyewear should always be worn during • UVA: 315-400 nm exposure may cause
laser repair, alignment, or installation, or at any time pigment darkening and skin burns.
when any laser safety control is not in place. • Visible: 400-700 nm exposure may cause
photosensitive reactions and skin burns.
• Infrared 700-100,000 nm exposure may
cause skin burns.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 63

Table Showing Control Measures
Control Class 1 Class 2 Class 3a Class 3b Class 4

Measure

Activation No No No Should have Shall have

requirement requirement requirement
Warning
Systems

Indoor Laser No No No Shall have Shall have

requirement requirement requirement
XE Optics Nominal Nominal
Laser Control Hazard Hazard
Zone Analysis Zone Analysis
Required

Labels Shall have Shall have Shall have Shall have Shall have

Area Posting No No Should have Shall have Shall have

requirement requirement
Nominal Nominal
Hazard Hazard
Zone Analysis Zone Analysis
Required Required

Standard No No No Should have Shall have

requirement requirement requirement
Operating
Procedures

Education and No Should have Should have Shall have Shall have
Training requirement

Authorised No No No Shall have Shall have

requirement requirement requirement
Personal

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 64

Appendix B
Symbol Definition

CAUTION: Consult accompanying documents

Laser Hazard: Consult accompanying

documents

Warning label - LASER RADIATION

CLASS IV INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN

OPEN / WHEN INTERLOCK DEFEATED

AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE TO DIRECT

OR SCAT-TERED RADIATION

Laser Hazard- label indicating precise position of

the LASER LENSE

Description of invisible and laser radiation

Instrument manufacturer

Disposal at end of life

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 65

APPENDIX C
Labels placement
LASER RADIATION Avoid eye or skin exposure to
direct or scattered radiation.
Placement of the Label indicating
presence of a LASER inside the
unit

Laser Radiation is emitted from

this aperture AVOID EXPOSURE!

Do never override the door

interlock. Doing so could possibly
generate eye injury.

• Laser Manufacturer

• Laser Features

• Back of the laser

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 66

APPENDIX D
Warning for users : Diode Lifespan
It is normal for LEDs to degrade
overtime and under heavy
workload conditions they have a
quicker decline in performance or
shut down completely.

IMPORTANT: Leaving the unit

powered ON can accelerate this
process. It is highly
recommendation to turn the
SlideMate Laser OFF from the
main switch positioned on the
back of the unit. Not doing so
could increase spare parts and
service costs.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 67

APPENDIX E
Disposal at the End of Lifecycle
Correct Disposal of this product (According to
Directive 2002/96/EC on WEEE applicable in the
EU and other European countries with separate
collection systems

Unless otherwise agreed in writing between

FATech Diagnostics Europe BV. and the Buyer,
FATech expects the Buyer to be responsible for
financing the collection, treatment, recovery,
recycling and environmentally sound disposal of
all WEEE arising or deriving from the Products and
all WEEE arising or deriving from products already
on the market as of August13, 2005.

Furthermore, FATech Diagnostics Europe BV also

expects the Buyer to comply with all additional
obligations placed upon the users by the WEEE
regulations in the country the Buyer resides in. The
above-mentioned obligations shall be passed on
by successive professional buyers to the final user
of the WEEE, always under the Buyer’s
responsibility.

Noncompliance by the Buyer with the above-

mentioned obligations may lead to the application
of criminal sanctions, as laid down in the
applicable national transposition legislation and/or
regulations.

Under the WEEE directive, FATech Diagnostics

Europe BV will label all systems with the ‘crossed
out wheeled bin’ symbol.

This label indicates the user of the product that

FATech Diagnostics Europe BV products are to
be disposed of and recycled separately from other
and regular waste streams. Only in this way the
environmentally sound and beneficial re-use of
FATech Diagnostics Europe BV.

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 68

APPENDIX F
Part Number Instrument Description

8000048 SlideMate Laser Printer

Part Number Accessories Description

9001644 SlideMate Laser Hopper – 2/Pk

9001645 SlideMate Laser Chute- 2/Pk

4000850 SlideMate Laser Fan Dust filters x5 sets

2000001 SlideMate Laser Brush

2000002 SlideMate Laser Stylus

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 69

APPENDIX G
This operator guide includes a list of Epredia laser
slides which have been tested and are approved for
use in the SlideMate Laser. Slides that are not listed
in this manual as approved for use in the SlideMate
Laser printer may fail to produce legible printed
information. Each pack: 72 slides/pack, 20
packs/case

Non-CE Slides (USA Only)

Non Adhesion Slides Adhesion Slides

LS-4041I-8524-1 White tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-4041I-PS8523-1 White tab, adhesion,

ground edges, 90° corners 25x75x1mm, ground edges, 90° corners

LS-5041I-8524-1 Blue tab, 25x75x1mm, ground LS-5041I-PS8523-1 Blue tab, adhesion,

edges, 90° corners 25x75x1mm, ground edges, 90° corners

LS-6041I-8524-1 Green tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-6041I-PS8523-1 Green tab, adhesion,

ground edges, 90° corners 25x75x1mm, ground edges, 90° corners

LS-7041I-8524-1 Pink tab, 25x75x1mm, ground LS-7041I-PS8523-1 Pink tab, adhesion,

edges, 90° corners 25x75x1mm, ground edges, 90° corners

LS-8041I-8524-1 Yellow tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-8041I-PS8523-1 Yellow tab, adhesion,

ground edges, 90° corners 25x75x1mm, ground edges, 90° corners.

CE Marked Slides (EU)

Non Adhesion Slides Adhesion Slides

LS-4041I-8524-1CE White tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-4041I-PS8523-1CE White tab, 25x75x1mm,

ground edges, 90° corners ground edges, 90° corners

LS-5041I-8524-1CE Blue tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-5041I-PS8523-1CE Blue tab, 25x75x1mm,

ground edges, 90° corners ground edges, 90° corners

LS-6041I-8524-1CE Green tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-6041I-PS8523-1CE Green tab, 25x75x1mm,

ground edges, 90° corners ground edges, 90° corners

LS-7041I-8524-1CE Pink tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-7041IPS8523-1CE Pink tab, 25x75x1mm,

ground edges, 90° corners ground edges, 90° corners

LS-8041I-8524-1CE Yellow tab, 25x75x1mm, LS-8041I-PS8523-1CE Yellow tab, 25x75x1mm,

ground edges, 90° corners ground edges, 90° corners

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 70

APPENDIX H
Parser Barcodes Explained
(Pink star represents common commands)

Using the command Delimited:

D,x,n; D - delimiter control indicator
x - character in use as a delimiter
n - which portion to take (1 = from start to first delimiter; 2 = 1st delimiter to 2nd delimiter etc)

Example data string: 22-12345-A-1

If you want to pick the case number 12345 from the line, you would type

D,-,2;

Using the command Fixed:

F,w; F - fixed position indicator

w - start position within the input data (minimum 1)

Example data string: 22-12345-A-1

If you want to pick the case number 12345-A-1 from the line, you would type

F,4;

Using the command Length:

L,y; L - indicator to limit the length of string to pass to output

y - number of characters (maximum), result will be less if the sub unit is already shorter.

Example data string: 22-12345-A-1

If you want to pick the number 21 from the line, you would type

L,2;

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 71

Using the commands Fixed and Length together:

Example data string: 2212345-A-1

If you want to pick the case number 12345 from the line, you would type.

F,3;L,5;

Using the command Pad:

P,z; P - indicate a fixed length for string - ie Pad to this many spaces “ “ or truncate as needed
z - number of characters or spaces for the output length

Example data string: 22-12345-A-1-12345000000

If you want to pick the number from the line and pad extra characters, you would type

Using with the delimited command

D,-,5;P,5;

Linking commands together:

Example data string: 21-12345-A-1

The data string does not have a section of the string for barcode data so we need to link information
together to create this using the add command

Barcode data needs to be 12345/A/1

Special Case Delimiter:

This is for a delimiter within the data string that is a semi colon ;

In this case you do not need to specify the delimiter within the input box

Example data string: 22;12345;A;1

If you want to pick the case number 12345 from the line, you would type

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 72

Changing the Template:

The template can be changed using the data string and parser.

Do not include the template name extension within the input string

In this example the template is called Liverpool

SlideMate Laser Operator Guide Issue 2 73

Index
A L
About Menu .................................................. 28
Language selection ....................................... 28
Accessories .................................................. 16
Laser Features .............................................. 66
Appendices................................................... 61
Laser Hazard ................................................ 62
C Laser Manufacturer ....................................... 66
Layouts......................................................... 31
CE Marked Slides (EU) .................................. 70
LED Indicators .............................................. 11
Classifications ............................................... 63
levels .......................................... 24, 25, 62, 63
Cleaning and Maintenance ............................ 54
Loading the Slides ........................................ 18
Company Information ...................................... 3
Connect .................................................. 17, 50 M
Contact address ............................................. 3
Mains Power Supply ................................. 6, 17
creation ........................................................ 40
Maintenance ................................................. 55
D O
Datamatrix .............................................. 12, 46
ON/OFF Switch............................................. 11
Date.............................................................. 29
Diode ................................................ 50, 61, 67 P
Disposal ........................................................ 68 position ......................................................... 31
Distributor ....................................................... 3 power cord ............................. 6, 11, 17, 62, 63
Door Open .................................................... 19 Power Supply ............................................... 11
E Printer Operation....................................... 7, 12
Printing Speed .............................................. 13
EMC Statement .............................................. 8
Environment.................................................... 8 Q
Error ............................................................. 51 queue ................................... 24, 26, 27, 30, 43
F Queue Management ..................................... 30

filter............................................................... 11 R
Fuses ...................................................... 13, 50 Remote Interlock........................................... 11
G removed ........................................... 40, 45, 62
reprint ..................................................... 30, 45
General Safety ................................................ 6
Glossary ....................................................... 53 S
H Samlight ....................................................... 46
Scanner ........................................................ 12
HDMI Port ..................................................... 11
sensor .......................................................... 12
Home Screen................................................ 24
Settings ........................................................ 27
Hopper Status .............................................. 25
Slide Selection .............................................. 19
I stacked............................................. 17, 18, 19
Symbols ......................................................... 3
Identification of Parts..................................... 11
System Specifications ................................... 13
interlock key.................................................. 17
Interlock Key ................................................. 11 T
K temperature .................................................. 63
Time ............................................................. 29
Keyboard Pop Up ......................................... 47
Touch screen ................................................ 50 V
transfer ......................................................... 26
ventilation ..................................................... 17
Troubleshooting ............................................ 50
W
U
Warranty ..................................................... 6, 8
Ultraviolet ...................................................... 62
Warranty Statement ........................................ 8
Unpacking .................................................... 15
WEEE ........................................................... 68
USB Ports .................................................... 11
Weight .......................................................... 13
User .................................. 9, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27