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Today we’re shedding some light on a GE CT reconstruction error set. This is one of the most requested topics, which unfortunately means reconstruction issues can happen more often when compared to the broad range of service issues. Why does this occur? The GE CT global operator console relies on multiple subsystems—such as image storage, reconstruction engines, and HP—working in perfect synchronization to produce vivid images of bone and anatomy. Therefore, when one component fails, it can negatively impact your ability to scan and reconstruct image data.
Our goal is to keep your systems scanning as reliably as possible, this is why we are proudly providing this quick reference guide to help add some clarity to some of the image reconstruction issues you may be experiencing with your GE Lightspeed, Brightspeed, Optima, or Discovery series CT scanner. First, let’s start with the basics:
What Causes a GE CT Reconstruction Error?
GE CT reconstruction errors arise as a result of one or more components within the operator console experiencing hardware, software, or connectivity issues. The main components that can cause reconstruction errors are:
- IG: Image generation computer
- DARC (data acquisition reconstruction computer)
- SDDA (Scan Data Disk Array) Note: Integrated into DARC2 in some console versions
- HP Computer
- Software
- Cabling Issues
While the fix can be as simple as securing a loose cable, or as complex as isolating the trouble component, replacing and then reloading software. Reconstruction errors will most likely require troubleshooting by a qualified service engineer.
GE CT Reconstruction Troubleshooting Tips
The real question everyone wants know is: Can my system scan? Below we have listed system conditions that may apply to your specific situation and provide helpful insight.
1. System boots to applications and then immediately shuts down.
System boots normally and begins the system halt process where it would normally be ready to scan. This indicates system failed to establish secure connection with data acquisition reconstruction computer (DARC). This may indicate issues within the DARC hardware or software. Power system down using the OEM-recommended procedure and ensure all connections to reconstruction subsystem (DARC, SDDA, IG, HP) are secure. Power on CT and attempt to boot to applications. If issue persists, call your CT service engineer to perform DARC hardware and software troubleshooting.
2. System boots to application normally, but reconstruction error messages appear when I try to scan
A. System allows scanning – This indicates issues with your scan data disk array, or JBOD, however your system allows scanning operations to continue. This may indicate one, or more hard drives, is experiencing functionality issues. GE CT systems are designed to operate at full capacity with up to 8 hard drives in a chain (referred to as your scan data disk array, or just a bunch of disks, JBOD), however your system does not require all hard drives to perform scans. as a matter of fact, your system can function with as little as 5 hard drives, out of the available 8. As you may have already experienced, the system will provide error messages when trying to scan though.
It is important to note that if more than 3 hard drives fail (out of 8), the system will not be able to scan and will require immediate service before system can scan. The system error log will provide more specific details regarding your issue. Key takeaway: If you are experiencing scan reconstruction errors, but system still allows you to scan, schedule service for troubleshooting and replace the trouble components before your system goes hard down.
B. System does not allow scanning – This may indicate issues within the scan disk array. Unfortunately, rebooting your system is unlikely to resolve the issue. Scan disk array errors require further troubleshooting by your CT service engineer to isolate trouble component. Possible resolutions include software load, SDDA replacement, hard drive replacement, or a database reset. The system error log will provide details regarding your specific issue. If possible, take pictures of your most recent errors and send them over to your service company for reference.
3. System fails to reconstruct images
Your system boots to applications and scans normally but fails to reconstruct images (with or without error message). This may indicate issues with your IG computer. However, you may be able to recover the images after a system reboot. Sometimes, but not always, IG computers show intermittent failures. While we still recommend replacing the IG in a timely manner, often the images are reconstructed after the next system restart.
What if my images do not get reconstructed due to this error? Will they be lost?
No. As long as your scan data is stored in your disk array (check Retro Recon database), then your images are safe and can be reconstructed as needed, assuming the IG computer is functioning properly.
GE CT Reconstruction Error FAQ
The replacement of GE CT console components vary from as little as 10 minutes (IG replacement) up to a full 8 hours (if a software load is required). However, troubleshooting and isolating the faulty component and getting the parts on site is what takes up the bulk of down time. Expect a few hours to a couple of days of downtime to troubleshoot, replace parts, and finalize system for turnover.
When allowed by the system, scanning operations may continue with limited performance. It is recommended to schedule service as soon as allowable to isolate faulty components. See #2 above.
This may indicate your system is operating under limited capacity with one or more faulty components. This can occur when one or more IG computers fail.
Key Takeaways
Recognizing the symptoms to reconstruction errors, and fixing issues before they snowball into a hard down is absolutely essential to keeping your GE CT scanning reliably. This short troubleshooting reference guide is the first of the series, but you can expect more troubleshooting guides, and updates to this article as new resources are published.
Recommended Article: GE CT Error Messages Explained
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