Troubleshooting NovaSeq 6000 reagent RFID failures

Note: Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is the default error message for any flow cell issue when loading consumables on the instrument.

To troubleshoot a cartridge RFID failure:

• Load a previously used consumable.

  • If the used consumable is detected as previously used, the sensor is working as expected. In that case, load new reagent/buffer cartridge and contact Illumina Technical Support ([e-mail]) for replacement of the original cartridge. Provide the cartridge product number, lot number, and serial number to Technical Support.

  • If the used consumable replicates "RFID cannot be read" error, the sensor may be offline. If the instrument is idle on the other side, perform a power cycle\*. Once the instrument initializes: - Retry the pre-run check with the same used cartridge to check if the sensor is online. - If the used cartridge is now detected as "used," load the original cartridge and start the pre-run check again. - If the error persists after trying a used consumable and power cycling the instrument, contact Illumina Technical Support for the next steps.

\*For further information, see Knowledge Base article How to Power cycle the NovaSeq 6000 System.

To troubleshoot aflow cell RFID failure:

• Inspect flow cell visually to identify any debris or glass shards on the surface.

  • If debris or glass shards are present, use a new flow cell and contact Illumina Technical Support ([e-mail]) for replacement of the original flow cell. Provide flow cell product number, lot number, and serial number.

  • If no debris or glass shards are found, perform a power cycle on the instrument. - For further information on power cycle, see Knowledge Base article How to Power cycle the NovaSeq 6000 System.

• Once the instrument initializes successfully, clean the bottom of the flow cell and flow cell stage with an alcohol wipe. Pat dry excess alcohol with a lint-free wipe. Make sure only to clean the glass surface of the flow cell.

  • For further information, see Knowledge Base article Troubleshooting NovaSeq 6000 flow cell loading issues video.

• Note: Removing flow cell ID label will not help with this issue.​​​​​​

• Retry the pre-run check after performing the above steps with the same flow cell.

• If the pre-run check fails again with the same error, try setting up the run with a new flow cell.

  • If the run starts successfully, contact Illumina Technical Support for the replacement of the original flow cell.

  • If the same error persists with a new flow cell, contact Illumina Tech Support for the next steps.

For any feedback or questions regarding this article (Illumina Knowledge Article #1297), contact Illumina Technical Support [e-mail].