The STA Satellite Max® is a fully automatic clinical analyzer intended to be used by professional laboratory personnel for qualitative and/or quantitative in vitro determination and to perform clotting, chromogenic and immunoassay tests on human venous plasmas (3.2% citrate) the results of which aid in the diagnosis of coagulation abnormalities or in monitoring anticoagulant therapy.
Device Story
STA Satellite Max is a fully automatic clinical coagulation analyzer for hospital/central laboratories. It processes human venous plasma (3.2% citrate) samples to perform clotting, chromogenic, and immunoturbidimetric tests. The device uses two primary measurement principles: chronometric (electromagnetic sensors detect ball oscillation changes in cuvettes to measure viscosity/clotting) and photometric (optical density absorbance at 405nm or 540nm). The system automates sample handling, reagent delivery, analysis, and result reporting. A central processing unit manages patient results, quality control, and maintenance. The device is operated by professional laboratory personnel. Output data assists clinicians in diagnosing coagulation disorders and managing anticoagulant therapy. The device is a modernized version of the STA Satellite (K082248), featuring updated industrial PC hardware, increased data storage, and a modular software architecture (GUI and analyzer control) to improve cybersecurity and maintainability while retaining identical analytical and fluidic principles.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical trials were performed. Evidence consists of analytical performance studies including precision/reproducibility (multi-site, 3 sites, 90 samples per assay), linearity, limit of blank/detection/quantitation, and method comparison against the predicate (1,107 samples). Method comparison showed high correlation (Spearman R 0.989–0.999) across all six assays (PT, APTT, Fibrinogen, UFH, LMWH, D-Dimer). Stability studies confirmed sample integrity for frozen plasma.
Technological Characteristics
Fully automated analyzer; chronometric (oscillation of metal ball) and photometric (405/540 nm) measurement principles. Materials include coagulation cuvettes, optical sensors, and reagent cooling units. Connectivity via USB/RJ45. Software architecture: dual-layer (GUI and ESP analyzer control). Industrial PC: Dell Optiplex 3050 (Intel Pentium G4400T, 4GB RAM, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2021 LTSC). Sterilization: N/A (in vitro diagnostic).
Indications for Use
Indicated for professional laboratory use to perform in vitro diagnostic clotting, chromogenic, and immunoassay tests on human venous plasma (3.2% citrate) to aid in the diagnosis of coagulation abnormalities or monitoring of anticoagulant therapy.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A multipurpose system for in vitro coagulation studies is a device consisting of one automated or semiautomated instrument and its associated reagents and controls. The system is used to perform a series of coagulation studies and coagulation factor assays.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). A control intended for use with a multipurpose system for in vitro coagulation studies is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 864.9.
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FDA
U.S. FOOD & DRUG
ADMINISTRATION
# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY
INSTRUMENT ONLY
## I Background Information:
A 510(k) Number
K253658
B Applicant
Diagnostica Stago, Inc.
C Proprietary and Established Names
STA Satellite Max
D Regulatory Information
| Product Code(s) | Classification | Regulation Section | Panel |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| JPA | Class II | 21 CFR 864.5424 – Multipurpose System For In Vitro Coagulation Studies | HE – Hematology |
## II Submission/Device Overview:
A Purpose for Submission:
New device
B Type of Test:
Quantitative, clotting time and enzymatic activity or quantification of factors related to coagulation.
## III Intended Use/Indications for Use:
A Intended Use(s):
See Indications for Use below.
B Indication(s) for Use:
Food and Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
www.fda.gov
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The STA Satellite Max is a fully automatic clinical analyzer intended to be used by professional laboratory personnel for qualitative and/or quantitative in vitro determination and to perform clotting, chromogenic and immunoassay tests on human venous plasmas (3.2% citrate) the results of which aid in the diagnosis of coagulation abnormalities or in monitoring anticoagulant therapy.
## C Special Conditions for Use Statement(s):
Rx – For Prescription Use Only
## IV Device/System Characteristics:
### A Device Description:
The STA Satellite Max is a fully automated clinical laboratory analyzer intended to perform tests on human plasmas designed as a new version of Stago's previously cleared STA Satellite (K082248). The given results aid in the diagnosis of homeostatic disorders and the monitoring of anticoagulant treatment.
Samples and test reagents are loaded into the instrument where sample handling, reagent delivery, analysis and reporting of results are performed automatically. A central processing unit controls the instrument including management of patient results, quality control, system supervision, and support for instrument maintenance and workload optimization.
The instrument performs multiple test methodologies in random access, as selected by the user. These include clotting time or clot-based tests (i.e. chronometric measures) and photometric assays on plasma samples.
### B Instrument Description Information:
1. Instrument Name:
STA Satellite Max
2. Specimen Identification:
Barcode reader or manual entry of specimen identification (ID).
3. Specimen Sampling and Handling:
There are two types of sample loading. The sample carousel can be totally or partially loaded outside the analyzer and placed back into the analyzer. Single loading of the tubes directly into the analyzer via the opening in the sample carousel cover is also possible. Following centrifugation of the collection tubes, the user loads these tubes, without their caps, into the carousel with the barcode label positioned in front of the opening in the carousel. The analyzer automatically detects the tubes loaded into the carousel and their position by the Positive Identification system. For sampling, the rotor rotates to present the tube at the sampling position. The needle then draws the sample volume required for the test to be performed. The tube can be brought to the sampling position several times.
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4. Calibration:
The STA Satellite Max automatically requires calibration for each lot of reagent used. Calibration can be automated by using calibration curves provided with the reagent or performed manually with titrated calibrators depending on the assay. No assays can be run without valid calibration.
5. Quality Control:
Quality controls are defined by the methodology for each test and each methodology defines the number of levels and frequency of QC. For each methodology, it is mandatory to run at least one QC level per day. The system can automatically run QC and flag when control values are outside of pre-determined ranges. Patient sampling starts when all conditions are met, including QC and calibrations within range.
V Substantial Equivalence Information:
A Predicate Device Name(s): STA Satellite
B Predicate 510(k) Number(s): K082248
C Comparison with Predicate(s):
| Device & Predicate Device(s): | K253658 | K082248 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Device Trade Name | STA Satellite Max | STA Satellite |
| General Device Characteristic Similarities | | |
| Intended Use/Indications For Use | The STA Satellite Max is a fully automatic clinical analyzer designed to be used by professional laboratory personnel and to perform tests on human venous plasmas (3.2% citrate) the results of which aid in the diagnosis of coagulation abnormalities or in monitoring anticoagulant therapy. | The STA Satellite Automated Multi-Parametric Analyzer is a fully automatic clinical instrument indicated and intended for the performance of tests on human plasmas, the results of which aid in the diagnosis of coagulation abnormalities or in monitoring anticoagulant therapy. |
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| Sample Matrix | Human plasma, 3.2% sodium citrate | Same |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Regulatory Classification | JPA, Class II System, Multipurpose for in vitro coagulation studies | Same |
| Measurement Principle | Chronometric method (clotting time): measurement of the oscillation of the metal ball placed in the cuvette
Photometric method: light absorption technique provided by a filtered light source (405 nm, 540 nm) | Same |
| Testing environment | Clinical laboratory | Same |
| Control of Fluidic System | PDR (Pipettor Double Resolution) and 3-way electrovalve with a needle kit | Same |
| Needles | One needle for both samples and reagents | Same |
| Operating Environment Temperature | 59-89.5 F | Same |
| User/Patient Data Input | Keyboard and/or barcode scanner | Same |
| Specimen Processing | Automatic pipetting and dilution | Same |
| Random access | Yes | Same |
| Liquid Level Sensing | Yes | Same |
| Stat Testing | Yes | Same |
| Core Analyzer Modules | Coagulation detection cuvettes, optical sensors, reagent cooling units | Same |
| Measurement Outputs | Clotting time (chronometric) and absorbance (photometric) | Same |
| General Device Characteristic Differences | K253658 | K082248 |
| Product vials stocked | Carousel with 16 | Carousel with 16 |
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| | positions of different sizes:
• 4 positions for 10/15/20 mL vials (diam. 30 mm)
• 12 positions for 4/6 mL vials (diam. 23 mm)
Within these positions 4 pre-defined positions can be stirring positions.
• 2 within diam. 30 mm positions
• 2 within diam. 23 mm positions
Use of adapters (provided with the analyzer) for 18 mm diameter vials | positions of different sizes:
• 4 positions for 10/15/20 mL vials (diam. 30 mm)
• 12 positions for 4/6 mL vials (diam. 23 mm)
Within these positions 2 positions can be stirring positions.
Use of adapters (provided with the analyzer) for 18 mm diameter vials |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Data Storage Capacity | 464 GB | 2 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 10 (current)
Windows 10 IoT
Enterprise 2021 LTSC | Windows DOS |
| Connections | USB and RJ45 (current)
Enhanced USB, RS232 (native) and dual RJ45 | Port parallel, floppy disk |
| Dimensions | Height: 483 mm
Width: 530 mm
Depth: 650 mm | Height: 784 mm
Width: 535 mm
Depth: 645 mm |
| Software Architecture | Dual software:
• GUI (user interface)
• ESP (Electronic Software Platform) for analyzer control | Single integrated software handling both user interface and analyzer control. |
| Parameters | PT, APTT, Fibrinogen, D-Dimer, Anti-Xa (UFH, LMWH) | PT, APTT, Fibrinogen, Anti-Xa (UFH, LMWH), D-Dimers, Antithrombin Activity |
| Industrial PC Platform and Software | Dell Optiplex 3050 PC (Intel Pentium G4400T, 4 GB DDR3, 500 GB HDD, fan-cooled, Windows 10) | Legacy PC with Windows DOS, limited storage and connectivity |
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VI Standards/Guidance Documents Referenced:
CLSI EP06: Evaluation of Linearity of Quantitative Measurement Procedures – 2nd Edition
CLSI EP05-A3: Evaluation of Precision of Quantitative Measurement Procedures; Approved Guideline – 3rd Edition
CLSI EP09c: Method Comparison and Bias Estimation Using Patient Samples – 3rd Edition
CLSI EP17-A2: Evaluation of Detection Capability for Clinical Laboratory Measurement Procedures; Approved Guideline – 2nd Edition
CLSI H47-A2: One-Stage Prothrombin Time (PT) Test and Activated Partial Thromboplastin time (APTT) Test, Approved Guideline – 2nd Edition
CLSI H21-A5: Collection Transport and Processing of Blood Specimens for Testing Plasma-Based Coagulation Assays and Molecular Hemostasis Assays
IEC 62304 Edition 1.1 2015-06 Consolidated Version Medical Device Software – Software life cycle processes
IEC 61326-2-6 Edition 4.0 2025-06 Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – EMC requirements – Part 2-6: IVD medical equipment
IEC 60601-1-2 Edition 4.1 2020-09 Medical electrical equipment Part 1-2: General requirements for basic safety and essential performance
VII Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
A Analytical Performance:
1. Precision/Reproducibility:
Repeatability
A single site repeatability study was performed in accordance with CLSI EP05-A3: Evaluation of Precision of Quantitative Measurement Procedures; Approved Guideline – 3rd Edition. Six assays were evaluated: PT (K922040), APTT (K792048), FIB (fibrinogen, K840211), Anti-Xa (UFH (unfractionated heparin), K111822), Anti-Xa (LMWH (low molecular weight heparin), K111822) and D-Dimer (K162227). The study was conducted using five samples per parameter, three patient samples and two quality control samples, covering the measurement range, with one lot of each reagent. The five samples were assayed over 20 days. Two runs were performed per day with two replicates per sample per run. The runs were randomly distributed between two operators. Each assay was performed on three instruments. For each assay, standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation (CV) were calculated to determine the following precision parameters: within-run, between-run, between-day, between-instrument and within-site. The results of the studies met the predefined acceptance criteria.
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PT (STA-Neoplastine CI Plus (sec))
| Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Instrument | | Within-Site | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | CV% | SD | CV% | SD | CV% | SD | CV% | SD | CV% |
| 1 | 240 | 12.9 | 0.133 | 1.0 | 0.043 | 0.3 | 0.067 | 0.5 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.155 | 1.2 |
| 2 | 240 | 38.7 | 0.428 | 1.1 | 0.675 | 1.7 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.199 | 0.5 | 0.824 | 2.1 |
| 3 | 240 | 54.0 | 0.450 | 0.8 | 1.250 | 2.3 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.502 | 0.9 | 1.420 | 2.6 |
| 4 | 240 | 14.0 | 0.122 | 0.9 | 0.090 | 0.6 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.074 | 0.5 | 0.169 | 1.2 |
| 5 | 240 | 24.4 | 0.301 | 1.2 | 0.314 | 1.3 | 0.055 | 0.2 | 0.294 | 1.2 | 0.528 | 2.2 |
APTT (STA-PTTA (sec))
| Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Instrument | | Within-Site | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) |
| 1 | 240 | 31.7 | 0.18 | 0.6 | 0.232 | 0.7 | 0.192 | 0.6 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.351 | 1.1 |
| 2 | 240 | 102.8 | 0.704 | 0.7 | 2.297 | 2.2 | 2.240 | 2.2 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 3.285 | 3.2 |
| 3 | 240 | 129.5 | 1.405 | 1.1 | 3.177 | 2.5 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.752 | 0.6 | 3.554 | 2.7 |
| 4 | 240 | 35.5 | 0.228 | 0.6 | 0.495 | 1.4 | 0.156 | 0.4 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.567 | 1.6 |
| 5 | 240 | 59.9 | 0.856 | 1.4 | 0.838 | 1.4 | 1.025 | 1.7 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 1.577 | 2.6 |
FIB (STA-Fibrinogen $(\mathrm{mg / dL})$
| Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Instrument | | Within-Site | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) |
| 1 | 240 | 548 | 9.311 | 1.7 | 5.635 | 1.0 | 4.563 | 0.8 | 1.553 | 0.3 | 11.903 | 2.2 |
| 2 | 240 | 767 | 10.478 | 1.4 | 6.745 | 0.9 | 5.438 | 0.7 | 3.576 | 0.5 | 14.059 | 1.8 |
| 3 | 240 | 1023 | 13.367 | 1.3 | 15.916 | 1.6 | 15.144 | 1.5 | 6.076 | 0.6 | 26.424 | 2.6 |
| 4 | 240 | 277 | 5.530 | 2.0 | 4.306 | 1.6 | 2.405 | 0.9 | 1.108 | 0.4 | 7.492 | 2.7 |
| 5 | 240 | 110 | 1.712 | 1.6 | 0.662 | 0.6 | 0.538 | 0.5 | 0.304 | 0.3 | 1.937 | 1.8 |
UFH - STA Liquid Anti-Xa (IU/mL)
| Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Instrument | | Within-Site | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) |
| 1 | 240 | 0.23 | 0.010 | 4.3 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.008 | 3.5 | 0.001 | 0.4 | 0.013 | 5.7 |
| 2 | 240 | 0.51 | 0.014 | 2.7 | 0.006 | 1.2 | 0.013 | 2.5 | 0.010 | 2.0 | 0.022 | 4.3 |
| 3 | 240 | 1.00 | 0.024 | 2.4 | 0.005 | 0.5 | 0.022 | 2.2 | 0.034 | 3.4 | 0.048 | 4.8 |
| 4 | 240 | 0.27 | 0.009 | 3.3 | 0.007 | 2.6 | 0.014 | 5.2 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.018 | 6.7 |
| 5 | 240 | 0.70 | 0.017 | 2.4 | 0.013 | 1.9 | 0.024 | 3.4 | 0.020 | 2.9 | 0.038 | 5.4 |
LMWH - STA Liquid Anti-Xa (IU/mL)
| Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Instrument | | Within-Site | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) |
| 1 | 240 | 0.50 | 0.016 | 3.2 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.019 | 3.8 | 0.020 | 4.0 | 0.032 | 6.4 |
| 2 | 240 | 1.40 | 0.038 | 2.7 | 0.022 | 1.6 | 0.027 | 1.9 | 0.035 | 2.5 | 0.062 | 4.4 |
| 3 | 240 | 1.77 | 0.053 | 3.0 | 0.030 | 1.7 | 0.030 | 1.7 | 0.041 | 2.3 | 0.079 | 4.5 |
| 4 | 240 | 0.86 | 0.026 | 3.0 | 0.014 | 1.6 | 0.018 | 2.1 | 0.022 | 2.6 | 0.041 | 4.8 |
| 5 | 240 | 1.58 | 0.052 | 3.3 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.030 | 1.9 | 0.055 | 3.5 | 0.081 | 5.1 |
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D-Dimer (STA-Liatest D-DI $(\mu \mathrm{g} / \mathrm{mL})$
| Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Instrument | | Within-Site | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) |
| 1 | 240 | 0.75 | 0.038 | 5.1 | 0.013 | 1.7 | 0.023 | 3.1 | 0.022 | 2.9 | 0.052 | 6.9 |
| 2 | 240 | 8.43 | 0.215 | 2.6 | 0.057 | 0.7 | 0.052 | 0.6 | 0.372 | 4.4 | 0.436 | 5.2 |
| 3 | 240 | 15.84 | 0.371 | 2.3 | 0.198 | 1.3 | 0.349 | 2.2 | 0.881 | 5.6 | 1.037 | 6.5 |
| 4 | 240 | 0.27 | 0.008 | 3.0 | 0.002 | 0.7 | 0.001 | 0.4 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.008 | 3.0 |
| 5 | 240 | 2.30 | 0.030 | 1.3 | 0.047 | 2.0 | 0.040 | 1.7 | 0.045 | 2.0 | 0.082 | 3.6 |
# Reproducibility
The multi-site reproducibility study was conducted in accordance with CLSI EP05-A3: Evaluation of Precision of Quantitative Measurement Procedures; Approved Guideline - $3^{rd}$ Edition. Six assays were evaluated: PT, APTT, FIB (fibrinogen), Anti-Xa (UFH), Anti-Xa (LMWH) and D-Dimer. The study was conducted at three US sites (one analyzer per site) using two levels quality control samples over five days with two runs per day and three replicates per sample using two operators. For each assay, SD and CV were calculated to determine the following precision parameters, for each assay and for all sites combined: within-run, between-run, between-day, between-site and total precision. The results of the studies met the predefined acceptance criteria.
Multi-site precision: STA Satellite Max (all sites combined)
| Assay | Sample | N | Mean | Within-Run | | Between-Run | | Between-Day | | Between-Site | | Total Precision | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) | SD | CV(%) |
| PT (sec) | CCN+ | 90 | 14.3 | 0.109 | 0.8 | 0.081 | 0.6 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.022 | 0.2 | 0.137 | 1.0 |
| | CCABN+ | 90 | 33.5 | 0.239 | 0.7 | 0.245 | 0.7 | 0.057 | 0.2 | 0.259 | 0.8 | 0.433 | 1.3 |
| APTT (sec) | CCN+ | 90 | 32.7 | 0.211 | 0.6 | 0.485 | 1.5 | 0.129 | 0.4 | 0.498 | 1.5 | 0.738 | 2.3 |
| | CCABN+ | 90 | 61.6 | 0.458 | 0.7 | 0.611 | 1.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.550 | 0.9 | 0.941 | 1.5 |
| FIB (mg/dL) | CCN+ | 90 | 317 | 6.723 | 2.1 | 9.543 | 3.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 4.165 | 1.3 | 12.394 | 3.9 |
| | CCABN+ | 90 | 157 | 3.017 | 1.9 | 1.961 | 1.2 | 0.272 | 0.2 | 0.780 | 0.5 | 3.692 | 2.4 |
| UFH (anti-Xa IU/mL) | QUAL UFH2 | 90 | 0.23 | 0.010 | 4.3 | 0.011 | 4.8 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.018 | 7.8 | 0.022 | 9.6 |
| | QUAL UFH7 | 90 | 0.68 | 0.017 | 2.5 | 0.016 | 2.4 | 0.010 | 1.5 | 0.026 | 3.8 | 0.036 | 5.3 |
| LMWH (anti-Xa IU/mL) | QUAL LMWH8 | 90 | 0.62 | 0.042 | 6.8 | 0.014 | 2.3 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.032 | 5.2 | 0.054 | 8.7 |
| | QUAL LMWH14 | 90 | 1.27 | 0.034 | 2.7 | 0.012 | 0.9 | 0.024 | 1.9 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.044 | 3.5 |
| D-Dimer (μg/mL) | LCN (normal) | 90 | 0.27 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 |
| | LCP (abnormal) | 90 | 2.30 | 0.031 | 1.3 | 0.019 | 0.8 | 0.016 | 0.7 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.40 | 1.7 |
# 2. Linearity:
A linearity study was conducted in accordance with CLSI EP06: Evaluation of Linearity of Quantitative Measurement Procedures - $2^{nd}$ Edition to verify the linear response over the expected measuring range for fibrinogen, Anti-Xa (UFH, LMWH) and D-Dimer assays on
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the STA Satellite Max. The linearity study was performed with one reagent lot and two instruments. Frozen patient plasmas with high and low analyte concentrations near the upper and lower limits of the expected measuring range were used to create 11 dilutions per assay spanning the targeted ranges, with four replicates per dilution. The linear ranges were verified such that all acceptance criteria were met.
| Analyte/Assay | Linear Range |
| --- | --- |
| STA-Fibrinogen (mg/dL) | 66 to 1200 |
| STA-Liquid Anti Xa LMWH (IU/mL) | 0.15 to 2.00 |
| STA-Liquid Anti Xa UFH (IU/mL) | 0.15 to 1.10 |
| STA-Liatest D-DI (μg/mL) | 0.34 to 20.00 |
3. Analytical Specificity/Interference:
Not Applicable
4. Detection Limit and Assay Reportable Range:
The Limit of Blank (LoB) was determined by measuring five deficient patient plasmas with known Anti-Xa level ≤ 0.05 IU/mL for the Anti-Xa assay, tested in four replicates over three days in a single run per day. For the D-Dimer assay, five different lots of STA Owren Koller buffer (diluent) were used. The LoB was calculated as the 95th percentile using the non-parametric method for each lot as the dataset showed non-normal distribution. The claimed LoB was the highest 95th percentile value across the two analyzers.
The Limit of Detection (LoD) was determined by measuring five low patient plasmas with known analyte level ranging from one to five times the estimated LoB value. The samples were assayed over three days with one run per day with four replicates over three days. LoD was calculated as the $\mathrm{LoB} + 1.653 \times \mathrm{SD}$ of the replicates for the samples and the highest LoD across the two analyzers was the LoD claim.
The Limit of Quantitation (LoQ) was determined by measuring five low level plasma samples tested in replicates of four over three days in a single run per day. The study utilized two analyzers and two reagent lots. The final LoQ for each parameter was determined using total error, defined as the sum of bias and imprecision, and compared against predefined allowable limits. For each reagent lot, the LoQ was defined as the lowest concentration of measurand for which all instruments met the acceptance criteria, and the final LoQ for each parameter was defined and the highest LoQ obtained across all reagent lots.
| Analyte/Assay | LoB | LoD | LoQ |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| STA-Liatest D-DI (μg/mL) | 0.10 | 0.20 | 0.34 |
| STA-Liquid anti Xa LMWH (IU/mL) | 0.04 | 0.09 | 0.15 |
| STA-Liquid anti Xa UFH (IU/mL) | 0.04 | 0.09 | 0.15 |
| STA-Fibrinogen (mg/dL) | Not applicable | Not applicable | 0.66 |
A factor sensitivity study was conducted for PT to assess instrument performance. The study was performed for coagulation factors II, V, VII and X using one lot of STA-Neoplastine CI
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Plus reagent on two analyzers. For each of the extrinsic factors, normal pooled plasma was mixed with each of the single factor-deficient patient plasmas to produce eight individual dilutions measured in duplicate. The factor sensitivity was defined as the factor level at which the PT test result rises above the upper limit of the established normal range. The study verifies factor sensitivity for the PT assay at the levels shown in the table below:
| Extrinsic Factor | Mean (%) |
| --- | --- |
| Factor II | 49% |
| Factor V | 48% |
| Factor VII | 49% |
| Factor X | 47% |
## B Comparison Studies:
### 1. Method Comparison with Predicate Device:
The method comparison study was performed and evaluated the performance of the STA Satellite Max by demonstrating equivalence to the cleared STA Satellite (K082248) at three US sites. Samples were collected in 3.2% trisodium citrate anticoagulant. A total of 1,107 samples were analyzed, fresh patient plasmas and frozen plasma samples (thawed). Six assays were evaluated: STA-Neoplastine CI Plus (PT), STA-PTTA (APTT), STA-Fibrinogen (Fibrinogen), STA-Liquid Anti-Xa (UFH), STA-Liquid Anti-Xa (LMWH) and STA-Liatest D-DI (D-Dimer). The samples covered the measuring range of each assay. The results of the method comparison study met the pre-defined acceptance criteria.
STA Satellite Max: Passing-Bablok Regression
| Parameter | N | Sample Range | Intercept (95% CI) | Slope (95% CI) | R Spearman (95% CI) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| PT (sec) | 180 | 12.0 – 82.2 | -0.27 (-0.45, -0.10) | 1.02 (1.01, 1.03) | 0.998 (0.997, 0.998) |
| APTT (sec) | 204 | 23.3 – 151.9 | -0.40 (-0.53, -0.01) | 1.00 (0.99, 1.01) | 0.999 (0.998, 0.999) |
| Fibrinogen (mg/dL) | 198 | 79 - 1194 | -3.50 (-10.92, 2.45) | 0.98 (0.97, 1.00) | 0.989 (0.986, 0.992) |
| UFH (IU/mL) | 192 | 0.10 – 1.09 | 0.00 (0.00, 0.01) | 1.00 (1.00, 1.00) | 0.991 (0.988, 0.994) |
| LMWH (IU/mL) | 155 | 0.10 – 2.00 | 0.02 (0.01, 0.03) | 0.99 (0.98, 1.00) | 0.996 (0.994, 0.997) |
| D-Dimer (μg/mL) | 178 | 0.29 – 19.83 | -0.01 (-0.03, 0.02) | 1.01 (1.00, 1.03) | 0.998 (0.997, 0.998) |
### 2. Matrix Comparison:
Not applicable
## C Other Supportive Instrument Performance Characteristics Data:
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1. Carry-Over
Carry-over studies evaluated potential reagent contamination and the impact of STA-Wash integration when used with STA-Cleaner Solution and STA-Desorb U. The study evaluated the potential for contamination when one lot of a susceptible assay (STA-Liquid Anti-Xa (K111822)) was exposed to one lot each of the following contaminant reagents: STA-Fibrinogen, STA-Neoplastine CI Plus and STA-NeoPTimal. Three lots of STA-Wash were evaluated on six STA Satellite Max analyzers using two samples, STA-Quality HNF/UFH 3 and STA-Quality HBPM/LMWH 8, which are prepared from native human plasma. For each contaminant and each sample, a reference series (contaminable test STA-liquid Anti-Xa heparin assay) and a mixed series (contaminate tests - STA - Fibrinogen 5, STA - Neoplastine CI+, STA - NeoPTimal mixed with contaminable test (STA-Liquid Anti-Xa assay)) were tested. The results were within the predefined acceptance criteria, demonstrating effective decontamination when using STA-Wash with STA-Cleaner Solution and STA-Desorb U.
A second study was performed to confirm that the use of STA-Wash does not affect the performance of the APTT, PT or Anti-Xa assays. The study compared results obtained with the addition of STA-Wash versus without STA-Wash, using one lot of STA-Wash on one STA Satellite Max analyzer. Two levels of QC material were tested for each assay. Two series were tested with 10 replicates in the reference series, followed by 10 replicates of the modified test set up series (needle washing added before the sample and reagent collection). All results were within the predefined acceptance criteria, demonstrating that the use of STA-Wash does not affect the performance of APTT, PT or Anti-Xa assays.
2. Sample Stability Study
A 24-month stability study was performed using 240 fresh whole blood samples collected in 3.2% citrate tubes then aliquoted into one mL plasma samples. The samples were tested within four hours of collection for PT, APPT, Fibrinogen and D-Dimer on the STA R Max. Each aliquot was frozen at ≤-70°C. Ten samples were assayed at timepoints T (months) = 3, 6, 11, 18, 22, and 24 on one analyzer, the STA R Max. Passing-Bablok regression analysis was performed between fresh and frozen samples for all four assays. All four assays met the predefined acceptance criteria confirming that patient plasma stored at ≤-70°C remain stable for up to 22 months for PT, APTT, Fibrinogen and D-Dimer assays.
A 12-month stability study was conducted to assess the stability of Anti-Xa activity in 3.2% citrate plasma. Thirty fresh whole blood samples were collected and processed in one mL aliquots to allow for sets of 7–9 samples to be combined and tested at each timepoint. The samples were tested within four hours from collection for LMWH and UFH using the STA R Max analyzer. Each tube was stored frozen at ≤-70°C immediately after testing. Samples were thawed for testing at their specified times: T= 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. At each timepoint, 7–9 frozen samples were tested. Passing-Bablok regression analysis was performed between fresh and frozen samples. Both assays met the predefined acceptance criteria confirming that patient plasma stored at ≤-70°C remain stable for up to 10 months for LMWH and UFH assays.
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3. Fresh-Frozen Plasma Comparability Study
A fresh-frozen comparability study was performed for citrated plasma samples across six assays: PT, APTT, FIB, UFH, LMWH, and D-DI. A total of more than 50 patient samples per assay were tested, covering the full analytical measuring range. Samples were tested fresh within four hours of collection and then stored at ≤-70°C for one day to four months. Following storage, samples were thawed at 37°C and retested within two hours. Testing was conducted using two STA Satellite Max analyzers Passing-Bablok regression analysis was performed and demonstrated results obtained from fresh and frozen plasmas were comparable and met the predefined acceptance criteria, demonstrating that patient plasma frozen at ≤-70°C are equivalent to fresh samples within one freeze-thaw cycle.
4. Electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing were performed, and the system was found to be acceptable.
5. Software and cybersecurity documentation was reviewed and found to be acceptable.
VIII Proposed Labeling:
The labeling supports the finding of substantial equivalence for this device.
IX Conclusion:
The submitted information in this premarket notification is complete and supports a substantial equivalence decision.
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.