Facilities that own one or multiple C-Arm systems should be aware that C-arms do not do well in storage.
If you plan on leaving your system dormant for more than a few weeks, you can expect a slight hiccup in the process when you boot up your system.
The culprit: batteries.
Below we cover the top two problems C-Arm batteries have, how to troubleshoot if problems arise, and how to order new parts should your battery components not be salvageable.
Drained Generator Batteries
Like car batteries, the generator batteries on your C-arm will drain and possibly become damaged if they are neglected for a long period of time.
In most cases, this problem can be fixed by simply charging the batteries for about four hours.
Some models, like the OEC 9600 and OEC 9800 might even display an error code prompting the user to charge the batteries. If a recharge does not bring your batteries back to life, it might be a sign that new ones are needed.
If this is the case Block Imaging can assist with providing replacement batteries (part# 5327368).
Dead CMOS Battery
The CMOS battery on your system powers the memory that stores the BIOS settings on the computer. When powering up a dormant C-arm, you may notice the system date and time are incorrect or slow to update.
This is a sign that the battery powering your CMOS is dead or at the end of its life.
These small batteries are inexpensive to replace and widely available at electronics stores but, depending on what model of C-arm you have, the installation process can come with several steps that might be better left in the hands of a biomed or service engineer.
The Takeaway
At some point, any battery will fail. But, in the meantime, you can defer the cost and hassle of replacing them and improve the overall longevity of your C-arm by keeping it plugged in if you'll be using it in the near future.
If your C-arm has already been dormant for some time and is giving you boot-up problems, feel free to contact us. Our team of experienced engineers are ready to help.
If you need replacement battery parts for your C-Arm, click here to view specifications, and place an order.
Gary Strpko: December 17, 2024
