How to connect Sysmex KX-21N with MedX Automation
MedX Automation connects with the Sysmex KX-21N hematology analyzer using serial communication via the RS-232 port on the rear panel of the machine. The analyzer sends each completed sample to Automation, which uploads the results automatically. You will need an RS-232 to USB adapter cable (or a direct serial cable if your computer has a serial port).
This guide assumes you have already installed the Automation application and added the Sysmex KX-21N. See How to connect medical devices with MedX Automation for more details.
Refer to Configuration of serial port drivers for more information about connecting machines via serial communication
Connecting with a Serial Cable
Locate the 9-pin D-SUB host computer connector on the rear panel of the KX-21N. Connect one end of the serial cable (RS-232) to the machine and the other end to your computer. If your computer does not have a serial port, use an RS-232 to USB adapter.
The KX-21N will not send while its DSR signal (pin 6) is off, so the cable must carry the DTR/DSR handshake lines, not only transmit, receive and ground.
Configuring Serial Communication
On the Automation Application
- Click the settings button on the top right and select the serial port corresponding to the cable you have connected. If you are not sure which one it is, unplug it, check which one is no longer in the dropdown, then reconnect and select the one that reappears.
- Run a sample and check that its result appears in the Results tab.
On the KX-21N
Press SELECT on the Analysis screen, then choose 6: Settings and 5: Host Settings. The settings must match the following values.
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Connect | Use |
| Output Format | KX-21N |
| Auto Output | On |
| Baud Rate | 2400 |
| Data Length | 7 bits |
| Stop Bit | 2 bits |
| Parity Check | Even |
| Protocol | Class A or Class B |
These are the analyzer's factory values, except Connect. The K-1000 and K-DPS output formats are not supported.
Sending Results
With Auto Output on, the KX-21N sends each sample as soon as it is analyzed.
To resend stored results, open the stored data screen, mark the samples you want to send, and choose the output to host option. Samples are sent in the order they were marked.
The KX-21N does not send the time of analysis, so results in Automation show the analysis date only.
Quality control data sent from the X or L-J control programs appears as a result with sample ID "QC" plus the QC file number (for example QC5) and sample type QC X or QC L-J.
Troubleshooting
"Host Comm. Error" on the analyzer
- The computer is off line, the cable is disconnected, or the DSR signal is off. Check the cable and that Automation is running with the correct COM port selected.
- Press 1 on the analyzer to retry, or 3 to stop sending. After stopping, turn the host connection back on in Host Settings.
No data received in the Automation application
- Verify the serial cable is firmly connected to both the machine and the computer.
- Confirm you have selected the correct COM port in the Automation application.
- Ensure the settings on the machine match the values in Configuring Serial Communication above, especially Output Format.
- Check that the appropriate serial port drivers are installed. See Configuration of serial port drivers.
- Ensure no other application is using the same COM port.