Using the proposed NCCLS protocol for evaluation of automated instruments.

We compared four instruments (Sequential Multiple Analyzer Computer (SMAC), AutoAnalyzer II (AAII), StatLyte, and PVA-4) for the determination of Na, K, Cl and CO2 using a protocol (PSEP-1) of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS) for evaluation of precision and accuracy of automated instruments. The protocol was applied concurrently to all four instruments. NCCLS has revised this protocol into three separate protocols by which the manufacturer can make performance claims. Protocols specifically aimed at the user are now under development. Although PSEP-1 is no longer in use, many parts of it have been incorporated into PSEP-2, PSEP-3 and PSEP-4. This article will describe the adaptation of the protocol to evaluate four automated instruments in our laboratory.