Frequently Asked Questions
Information on the SteriTrace software connection – key questions answered clearly.
What is SteriTrace?
SteriTrace is the paperless batch documentation of the Steri24 Premium autoclaves. The release is carried out directly on the touchscreen in a few clicks, the sterilisation logs are saved automatically and can be transferred to your practice software. This eliminates the handling of USB sticks and paper logs.
How does the paperless batch release with SteriTrace work?
After each sterilisation cycle you check the result on the SteriTrace display and release the batch with a few clicks. The release is documented together with the sterilisation log and transferred automatically to the PC or the practice software. This is RKI compliant and saves time every week compared to paper-based recordkeeping.
Which practice software can SteriTrace be connected to?
SteriTrace, or rather the Steri24 Premium autoclaves, can be connected to common practice and hygiene software, provided the software has a hygiene module. The output log is compatible with common practice software formats, so that almost any software with a suitable interface is supported. Let us know which program you use and we will check the connection.
Can the autoclave be connected to my practice or hygiene software?
Yes, the Premium autoclaves in particular can be connected to common practice and documentation software via LAN, WLAN or a serial interface. The output log is compatible with common formats. The setup is handled by our technician; please let us know which program you use and when you can be reached.
Is the connection established via LAN or WLAN?
The connection of the Premium autoclaves is established either via LAN or WLAN, and with some systems also via a serial interface. This allows flexible integration into your practice IT. We are happy to clarify which option best suits your environment in a consultation.
Are the sterilisation logs transferred automatically?
Yes, every autoclave generates and saves the sterilisation logs with date, program and parameters automatically. With the software connection, the logs are transferred automatically to your practice software; depending on the system, a manual interpretation and batch release may still be required afterwards.
What does automatic log interpretation mean?
With automatic log interpretation, the system itself detects whether a cycle was successful or not. Without this function, the logs are transferred automatically, but a staff member must then assess manually whether the cycle passed. The automatic interpretation can be activated on request for a fee with some systems.
Can I carry out the batch release without a software connection?
Yes. With the Premium autoclave you can carry out the batch release at any time directly on the SteriTrace display and then transfer the released logs automatically to the PC. This is likewise RKI compliant and often makes daily workflows even more efficient; we recommend this approach.
Is documentation with SteriTrace RKI compliant?
Yes, the paperless batch documentation and release with SteriTrace meets the requirements of the RKI recommendations. The release decision is documented traceably for each batch and is audit-proof. This way you are well prepared for inspections and audits.
Why is documentation of reprocessing required at all?
According to the applicable recommendations, reprocessing ends with the documented release of the medical device for use. The process parameters and the release decision must be documented for each batch in such a way that traceability is ensured. SteriTrace implements exactly this requirement in a paperless and audit-proof manner.
How much time does SteriTrace save in daily practice?
Since the logs are transferred automatically and the release takes only a few clicks on the touchscreen, manual typing, printing and filing are eliminated. Many practices save several hours every week this way and avoid transcription errors.
What is the difference between the Pro and Premium autoclaves in terms of documentation?
The autoclave and operation are fundamentally the same. The Premium models additionally offer a fixed water connection, WLAN/LAN connection to the practice software, as well as paperless batch release and documentation directly on the touchscreen with SteriTrace. With the Pro, documentation is done via an integrated printer or USB and manual water filling.
Do I need a Premium autoclave for SteriTrace?
The paperless release on the touchscreen with SteriTrace is part of the Premium models. The Pro models also save the logs automatically and output them via an integrated printer or USB, but without the touchscreen release and the full software connection. You can find out which option suits your workflow in the configurator or in a consultation.
Does SteriTrace also work if my software has no direct interface?
Yes. Provided your software has a hygiene module, a manual linking of the transferred logs is possible. Alternatively, you carry out the batch release directly on the SteriTrace display and transfer the released logs to the PC. This way you are documented in an RKI-compliant manner even without deep integration.
I can't quite picture SteriTrace; what does it look like in practice?
SteriTrace is a paperless batch documentation on the touchscreen: you release each batch in a few clicks, and the logs are saved and transferred automatically. A simple online training shows you all the steps. On the product page and in a consultation we are happy to show you the workflow in detail.
Can I get away from the USB-stick back-and-forth?
Yes, that is exactly what SteriTrace is made for. Instead of transporting logs by USB stick between the autoclave and the PC, SteriTrace transfers the data automatically over the network. This saves time and avoids errors.
How is the SteriTrace touchscreen supplied with power?
There is no longer an external power supply unit; the tablet is supplied with power by the autoclave. The DC-DC cable, or the DC-Y cable if a label printer is also operated on the autoclave, is used.
How do I connect the label printer to SteriTrace?
The label printer is connected to the SteriTrace tablet via an RS232-USB cable. For narrower rolls, remove the inner plastic part, insert the roll, close the cover and press Feed. We will provide you with instructions if required.
What is the label printer used for with SteriTrace?
With the label printer you print labels after the batch release for the traceability of the reprocessed medical devices. These are attached to the packaging and allow the clear assignment of batch, date and release.
Do I have to label individual instruments?
Packaged, autoclaved sets or individual instruments must be labelled, but only on the packaging, not on the instrument itself. For this labelling, the Premium autoclave is equipped with an included label printer.
May people with pacemakers work with SteriTrace?
Yes. However, there are magnets on the base of SteriTrace; we point this out during installation in accordance with the warning symbol. Please observe the appropriate safety distance as indicated.
SteriTrace gives off warning tones, how do I deactivate the sound?
You can adjust or deactivate the warning tone in the SteriTrace settings. If you cannot find the exact location in the menu, we will be happy to help you via the service form at steri24.de/help or by phone.
Who is allowed to carry out the batch release?
The release for use may only be carried out by an authorised and trained person who checks the process parameters and documents the release decision. SteriTrace supports this step on the touchscreen and documents the decision traceably for each batch.
What is recorded in the batch documentation?
The process data essential for reprocessing as well as the release decision for each batch are documented, so that traceability is ensured. SteriTrace saves this information automatically and audit-proof and transfers it to your practice software.
Does the autoclave still print on paper despite SteriTrace?
Many devices have the paper printer deactivated at the factory. You can switch it on or off via the menu. Regardless of this, the logs are saved automatically, for example on SteriTrace or a memory card, and can be exported via LAN, WLAN or USB.
Where can I find templates and forms for documentation and batch release?
We provide free templates for documentation and batch release, for example the handwritten batch-release form at steri24.de/media/Chargenfreigabe_Handschriftlich.pdf as well as a detailed knowledge document in the wiki on steri24.de. Alternatively, use the digital documentation via SteriTrace.
Is SteriTrace also available as an app?
Yes, in addition to the touchscreen solution on the Premium autoclave, digital documentation is possible via the SteriTrace app (Android). This way you can also map the batch documentation on the go or on a tablet.
Does the autoclave create the sterilisation logs itself?
Yes, every autoclave generates and saves the sterilisation logs with date, program and parameters automatically. These can be backed up to USB or a memory card, transferred via LAN/WLAN or printed out.
Are my logs stored permanently?
The sterilisation logs are saved automatically and can be transferred to the practice software, where they are stored in an audit-proof manner. In addition, you can back them up to USB or a memory card, so that traceability is ensured over the long term.
Who sets up the software connection?
The setup of the connection is handled by our technician, usually as part of the on-site installation or commissioning. Please let us know in advance which program you use and when you can be reached, so that we can prepare the configuration accordingly.
Are there additional costs for the software connection?
The standard connection to common software is provided with the Premium autoclaves. Additional functions such as automatic log interpretation can be activated on request for a fee with some systems. We are happy to provide you with the exact conditions in the offer.
Does SteriTrace also support veterinary practices with their own management software?
Yes, provided your software has a hygiene module or a suitable interface, the Premium autoclave can be connected. Otherwise, you carry out the release directly on the SteriTrace display and transfer the logs to the PC. Let us know which program you use and we will check the connection.
Do I have to switch my existing practice software to use SteriTrace?
No. SteriTrace transfers logs in a format compatible with common practice software formats, so you can usually continue to use your existing software. With software that has a hygiene module, a direct or manual linking is possible.
How many clicks do I need for a batch release?
The release of a batch with SteriTrace takes only a few clicks, usually three, directly on the touchscreen. Afterwards, the log and release are documented and transferred automatically.
Do I get training for SteriTrace?
Yes, SteriTrace comes with simple training that we carry out during commissioning or online. This way you and your team quickly become confident in using the paperless release.
Is SteriTrace audit- and inspection-proof?
Yes, SteriTrace documents each batch including the release decision traceably and paperlessly. This way you meet the requirements for batch documentation and traceability and are well prepared for audits and inspections.
What happens if a cycle was not successful?
If a cycle is not successful, the instruments must not be released; the batch must be reprocessed. SteriTrace shows the result on the display, so that you immediately recognise a faulty batch and do not release it by mistake.
Can I retrofit SteriTrace if I already have an autoclave?
The paperless release is part of the Premium autoclaves. Whether and how an existing configuration can be extended depends on the model. Please contact us with your device type and we will check the options for you.
What is the advantage over solutions from other providers?
Steri24 offers paperless, RKI-compliant documentation including a software connection at a significantly fairer price than established expensive manufacturers, combined with a large on-site service network in the DACH region. This way you get premium functions without paying a premium surcharge.
Do I absolutely need a software connection for RKI documentation?
No. You can also carry out the RKI-compliant batch release directly on the SteriTrace display and then transfer the logs to the PC. A direct software integration is convenient, but not strictly necessary for standards-compliant documentation.
How are the logs transferred to my PC?
The transfer is carried out automatically over the network, either via LAN or WLAN depending on the configuration. Alternatively, logs can be backed up via USB or a memory card. The setup of the transfer is handled by our technician.
Can my hygiene officer view the releases centrally?
With a connection to your practice or hygiene software, the transferred logs are stored there centrally and can be viewed by authorised persons. This way your hygiene officer keeps an overview of all batches and releases.
Can SteriTrace be used for several devices in one practice?
Yes, with several Premium autoclaves the logs of the individual devices are each captured and transferred to the practice software. This way a multi-device reprocessing room can also be documented cleanly and centrally. We are happy to advise you on the specific configuration.
What does paperless documentation mean for my retention obligation?
Paperless documentation meets the same requirements for traceability and verifiability as the paper form, but is easier to archive and retrieve. The digitally stored logs are available in an audit-proof manner for the required retention period.
Do I need a fast internet connection for SteriTrace?
No. The transfer takes place within your local network via LAN or WLAN; a fast internet connection is not required for this. All that matters is a stable connection between the autoclave, SteriTrace and your PC.
Which autoclave with SteriTrace suits my dental practice?
For dental practices we usually recommend, depending on the number of practitioners and the volume of instruments, an 18 L or 23 L Class B as a Premium model with SteriTrace and practice software connection. The easiest way to find the right device is via the autoclave configurator or a short consultation.
Does SteriTrace help with the traceability of individual instruments?
Yes. Via the batch release and the label printer, labels can be created for the traceability of the reprocessed medical devices. This way you can always trace which batch a packaged set or instrument was reprocessed and released in.
What happens to the logs when I change my PC or software?
Since the logs are transferred automatically and stored in your practice software, they are tied to its data backup; in addition, they can be backed up to USB or a memory card. In the event of a software or PC change, our service team is happy to support you with setting up the connection again.
How do I find out whether my desired model supports SteriTrace?
The SteriTrace function and the full software connection are part of the Class B Premium autoclaves. Via the autoclave configurator or a short consultation you can quickly find out which model with SteriTrace suits your workflow.
Who do I contact if I have questions or problems with the connection?
If you have questions or problems regarding the software connection, please fill in the service form at steri24.de/help or contact us directly. A technician will then get in touch with a solution or to arrange an appointment; our service network is on site in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.