Knowledge Base › Troubleshooting Atlas › Equipment faults
Automated stainer skips or misaligns slides
What it looks like
Slides may show incomplete staining or uneven coverage. Misalignment can cause staining reagents to miss parts of the slide.
Where it usually appears: Typically occurs during routine staining runs, especially with high volumes of slides.
Likely causes
- Incorrect slide placement in the stainer
- Malfunctioning slide transport mechanism
- Dirty or clogged staining chambers
- Improper calibration of the stainer
- Software errors or outdated firmware
Immediate checks
- Verify slide placement in the stainer
- Check for any visible obstructions in the slide transport path
- Inspect for any error messages on the stainer's display
Corrective action
- Realign the slides manually and restart the staining process
- Clean the staining chambers and transport mechanism
- Recalibrate the stainer as per manufacturer's instructions
Preventive action
- Perform regular maintenance on the stainer
- Schedule routine calibration checks
- Train staff on proper slide loading techniques
This atlas is for educational purposes for laboratory professionals. It does not replace your institutional SOPs, manufacturer instructions, validated protocols or pathologist judgment. Adapt any action to your laboratory and equipment.
Unimeditrek supports histopathology laboratories with tissue processors, microtomes, staining and workflow equipment plus service and AMC. Talk to a specialist →