FAQ
For issues with the SteriScan™ system not able to connect to the web portal
Click the TECH PAGE link (top right) for troubleshooting information.
What else is required to keep proper records?
There is some information that no data logging system can know…(well now there is, check out our Steri-Scan™ system!) For instance, who is running the sterilizer? What’s in the load? Were the sterilization cycle parameters verified? It is therefore required that a log be kept and filled in by the person doing the sterilizing. To the best of our understanding, this log should, at a minimum, include these items with the cycle number for each load. With this log and the cycle data from the Steridata™, you have complete records. IMPORTANT: You are also required to use class 4/5 bags and BI’s as needed, and recorded by the person in charge of sterilizing.
All this is now available with our newest offering, the Steri-Scan™ system. A complete, integrated, paperless record-keeping system for your sterilizing bay.
How does it work?
The Steridata™ reads the cycle information the sterilizer sends out during the cycle. This information is displayed on the Steridata™ display screen and recorded to the SD card. The current cycle number is displayed on the top line during the entire cycle. All the cycle files are saved as regular text files on the SD card; easily viewed on your computer, and printed out when needed. Our Steridata™ cycle logger operates silently; no more noisy printer disturbing the calm in your office.
Note* Do not remove the SD card during a running cycle or run cycles without the SD card in place as the remaining cycle information will be lost.
Do I need to print out every cycle?
With our Steridata™, you can visually verify the sterilizers’ cycle information right from the display on the Steridata™. This patented feature replays the cycle data after your cycle is complete.
This will replay continuously until you start the next cycle. You do not need to remove the SD card after each cycle. Once your cycle is complete (this includes the Dry Cycle), then the pertinent sterilization phase information is replayed repeatedly on the Steridata™ display screen in 15-second loops.
You are then able to visually verify that all the parameters were met and then you can start the next cycle. The important parts are the minimum temperature and minimum pressure.
These two parameters must be at or above the selected cycle set points.
Example: you have selected a 270° F at 30 psi 5 min cycle. The cycle is complete and the Steridata™ displays “Min 271.7 F 30.4 P”, this is a pass.
These two minimums should be recorded on the log sheet and meets your requirement to visually verify the cycle.
Visual verification is a requirement of the PIDAC guidelines and our patented replay function was designed to ensure your office is meeting the guidelines.
We still recommend removing the SD card weekly and back up the data to your computer. Do not delete the stored cycle information on the SD Card. Many years of cycle information can be held on the SD card. Should you want to use another SD card we recommend a 16 GB brand name card.
Rebooting your Steridata™
Rebooting your Steridata™ may be necessary if you interrupt your sterilization cycle for whatever reason, if you run a cycle without your SD card in the Steridata™ or if you experience a power outage and see odd characters on your display screen. This process just requires you to unplug your sterilizer (ensure the SD card is in the Steridata™ unit), count to 15 seconds and plug the sterilizer back in. This will reset your Steridata™.
What version of Statim does it work with?
The original white Statim cassette sterilizer 2000/5000 with the DB9 plug-in port on the back of the sterilizer and software version R601 or higher will work with the DS-05 SteriData™. The software version of your Statim is shown on the sterilizer’s display when you turn it on. (last 4 digits of the top line) The DS-05 Steridata™ logger just plugs into the back of your sterilizer.
What version of Midmark M3/M9/M11 does it work with?
All of the Midmark/Ritter M11, M9 and M3 sterilizers/autoclaves are supported, including the first Gen (red display) version. Now available for the new white case Midmark sterilizers.
Can I install it myself?
Installing this unit is very simple, and the instructions that are included show how to do it. For the M3 it just plugs into the back printer port of your sterilizer. For the M11/M9 it does require you open the side cover of the sterilizer and connects the same way the paper printer does. That’s why we recommend you have your service tech do the install.
On the Statim sterilizers, you plug it into the back of the sterilizer.
OK, so it’s been installed, How do I use it?
You’re all set to go, once installed the Steridata™ logger sits on top of your sterilizer and displays the cycle number during the entire cycle. The Steridata™ will now display and record all the cycle information as it comes from the sterilizer and save it to the SD card. Additionally, the time and date is automatically saved to each file and optionally, the sterilizer’s serial number and your practice name can be added to each file as well.
Your cycle files are arranged on the SD card under Year and Month folders. We do recommend you make copies of the files to a computer on a regular basis (monthly). You do not need to delete the files from the SD card, many years of cycle data can be stored on the card. If you would like another SD card formatted for use with your Steridata™ we have them for $29.95.
What else is required to keep proper records?
There is some information that no data logging system can know, (well now there is, check out our Steri-Scan system!) who is running the sterilizer? What’s in the load? Was the sterilization cycle parameters verified? It is therefore required that a log be kept and filled in by the person doing the sterilizing. To the best of our understanding, this log should at a minimum include these items with the cycle number for each load. With this log and the cycle data from the Steridata™, you have complete records. Please note that you are also required to use class 4/5 bags and BI’s as needed and recorded by the person in charge of sterilizing.
Why is the time of the saved cycle files behind by 1 hour?
This Steridata™ unit is factory set to your time zone when you order it. The unit does not adjust for Daylight saving time; the time on your cycle files is your local Standard Time (UTC). Daylight saving time is not used everywhere, and many places that do are talking about discontinuing its use. Should you wish to set the time you can check the TECH page for instructions on setting the internal clock.
How does this Steridata™ logger save me money?
When you add up the cost of feeding the paper printer, ink ribbon cartridges, and rolls of paper, you can save hundreds of dollars a year! The Steridata™ Logger will pay for itself in savings.
My computer does not have an SD card slot, How do I read the files from the SD card?
You will need an SD to USB adapter, these card readers allow you to use the USB port on your computer to read the files from the SD card. A card reader adapter can be obtained at your local department/electronics store and are inexpensive, we can supply one for $19.95 when you order if you need it.
Where does this Steridata™ mount on the sterilizer?
Once installed, place the Steridata™ on top of your sterilizer. Do not place the Steridata™ logger in the printer cavity. Always position the Steridata™ back 2 inches from the front of the sterilizer to avoid escaping steam.
For the Statim sterilizer, the top may not be the best place, as that is often used for the cassette when not in use.
The information I’m looking for is not here?
Please contact us with any questions by using the contact link at the top of the page. You can call us too, and yes a human will answer the phone! Unless we’re on the phone with someone, then leave a message and we will get one of our humans to call you back!