Hologic ATEC

Typical Failure Modes

Compiled for this model from its own documentation and established engineering knowledge for this equipment class - not from a verified service record. Confirm against the manufacturer's service manual.

• Vacuum generation failure during biopsy cycle

  High

  Symptoms: System fails to achieve or maintain required vacuum pressure; biopsy cycle aborts or completes with insufficient tissue sample

  Root cause: Leak in disposable tubing set, clogged filter in air motor regulator, or relief regulator pressure out of specified 70-72 PSI range

• Air motor overheating or abnormal noise

  Medium

  Symptoms: Compressor runs continuously; audible grinding or rattling from air motor housing; vacuum pressure drops below operating threshold

  Root cause: Worn internal vanes in air motor, debris ingestion from compromised filter, or inadequate ventilation of console enclosure

• Footswitch intermittent or no function

  Medium

  Symptoms: Biopsy trigger does not activate vacuum; requires multiple presses or specific angle to function

  Root cause: Footswitch internal contact wear, disconnected ribbon cable at console rear, or fluid ingress from inadequate sealing

• Relief regulator pressure drift

  Low

  Symptoms: Vacuum pressure reads outside 70-72 PSI range during operation; system over-pressurizes or under-performs

  Root cause: Regulator knob loosening from vibration, diaphragm fatigue, or contamination in pressure sensing line

Troubleshooting Approach

A starting sequence for this model, compiled from its documentation and engineering knowledge for this equipment class. Follow the manufacturer's service documentation for the actual procedure.