Abstract:
A sample analyzing system comprising: a first sample analyzer including a first measurement unit for measuring a sample and a first control unit for controlling the first measurement unit; and a second sample analyzer including a second measurement unit for measuring the sample and a second control unit for controlling the second measurement unit; wherein the first control unit is configured to transmit an activation signal for activating the second sample analyzer when a predetermined condition is met for the first sample analyzer; and the second control unit is configured to activate the second sample analyzer when the activation signal is received.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a sample analyzing system and a sample analyzer for analyzing a sample collected from a human or an animal such as a blood sample, a urine sample, or the like, as well as a management method of the sample analyzing system. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A sample analyzer for analyzing blood or urine such as a blood cell counting device, a blood coagulation measurement device, an immune analyzer, a biochemical analyzer, a urine analyzer, and the like is known. 
     In a facility such as hospitals, test centers, and the like where a plurality of the same type of sample analyzers are installed, the sample analyzer to be used is switched every day or every week, for example, and when using some of the plurality of installed sample analyzers, the other sample analyzers are not used. In this case, the sample analyzers that are not used are installed for backup, and thus are in a shutdown state. When abnormality occurs in the sample analyzer being used or when there are a large number of samples and a great amount time is required to complete the analysis of all the samples with the sample analyzers being used, the sample analyzer for backup is activated and used for sample analysis. 
     For example, in the sample analyzer disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2008-32493, when abnormality occurs in the sample analyzer, the occurrence of abnormality is displayed on a screen of the sample analyzer to notify the user. The user manually activates the backup sample analyzer when confirming the occurrence of abnormality of the sample analyzer or when determining that the sample analysis takes time with only the operating sample analyzer. 
     When switching the sample analyzer to be used by time, the operator shuts down the sample analyzer being used by hand and activates the sample analyzer that was not being used when a switching time is reached. 
     However, the operator needs to move to the place where the backup sample analyzer is installed to perform the activating operation in order to activate the backup sample analyzer. The backup sample analyzer may not be installed near the sample analyzer being used, in which case the backup sample analyzer cannot be efficiently activated and the processing may stagnate during such time. If the operator neither notice the abnormality of the device nor notice that a great number of samples is registered beyond the processing performance of the analyzer, the backup sample analyzer may not be activated for a long period of time and the sample processing may stagnate. 
     When switching the sample analyzer to use by time as well, the operator cannot efficiently carry out the switching operation if the sample analyzer to be used next is not installed near the sample analyzer being used. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The scope of the present invention is defined solely by the appended claims, and is not affected to any degree by the statements within this summary. 
     A first aspect of the present invention is a sample analyzing system comprising: a first sample analyzer including a first measurement unit for measuring a sample and a first control unit for controlling the first measurement unit; and a second sample analyzer including a second measurement unit for measuring the sample and a second control unit for controlling the second measurement unit; wherein the first control unit is configured to transmit an activation signal for activating the second sample analyzer when a predetermined condition is met for the first sample analyzer; and the second control unit is configured to activate the second sample analyzer when the activation signal is received. 
     A second aspect of the present invention is a sample analyzing system comprising: a first sample analyzer including a first measurement unit for measuring a sample and a first control unit for controlling the first measurement unit; a second sample analyzer including a second measurement unit for measuring the sample and a second control unit for controlling the second measurement unit; and a management device including a third control unit capable of communicating with the first control unit and the second control unit; wherein the third control unit is configured to transmit an activation signal for activating the second sample analyzer when a predetermined condition is met for the first sample analyzer; and the second control unit is configured to activate the second sample analyzer when the activation signal is received. 
     A third aspect of the present invention is a sample analyzing system comprising a measurement unit for measuring a sample and a control unit for controlling the measurement unit; wherein the control unit is configured to transmit an activation signal for activating another sample analyzer when a predetermined condition is met for the sample analyzer. 
     A forth aspect of the present invention is a method of managing a sample analyzing system including a main sample analyzer and a sub-sample analyzer, the method comprising the steps of having the main sample analyzer in an operating state and the sub-sample analyzer in a standby state; detecting a trouble of the main sample analyzer in the operating state; and changing the state of the sub-sample analyzer from the standby state to the operating state when the trouble of the main sample analyzer is detected. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view showing an overall configuration of a sample analyzing system according to a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first sample analyzer; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing one part of a configuration of a measurement unit of the first sample analyzer; 
         FIG. 4  is a block diagram showing a configuration of the information processing unit of the first sample analyzer; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic view showing a configuration of reagent remaining amount information; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic view showing a configuration of a first abnormality database; 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic view showing a configuration of a second abnormality database; 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram showing a configuration of the information processing unit of a second sample analyzer; 
         FIG. 9  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit of the first sample analyzer according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit of the second sample analyzer according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a view describing setting information; 
         FIG. 12  is a view showing one example of a sub-device activation notifying screen; 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit of the first sample analyzer in the remote shutdown operation; 
         FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit of the second sample analyzer in the remote shutdown operation; 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic view showing an overall configuration of a sample analyzing system according to a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a test information management device; 
         FIG. 17  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the test information management device according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit of the first sample analyzer according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the test information management device according to a third embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit of the first sample analyzer according to a fourth embodiment; and 
         FIG. 21  is a view showing a sub-device activation check screen. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings. 
     First Embodiment 
     Configuration of Sample Analyzing System 
       FIG. 1  is a schematic view showing an overall configuration of a sample analyzing system according to the present embodiment. A sample analyzing system  100  according to the present embodiment includes a first sample analyzer  1  and a second sample analyzer  2 . The sample analyzing system  100  is installed in one of the facilities such as the hospital, the test center, or the like. 
     The first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  are the same type of sample analyzer. In other words, the first sample analyzer  1  is a multi-item blood cell analyzer for detecting white blood cells, red blood cells, blood platelets and the like contained in the blood sample and counting each blood cell, and the second sample analyzer  2  is also a multi-item blood cell analyzer. 
     The first sample analyzer  1  includes a measurement unit  11 , a sample transport unit  12  arranged on a front surface side of the measurement unit  11 , and an information processing unit  13  capable of controlling the measurement unit  11  and the sample transport unit  12 . The first sample analyzer  1  also includes a wireless communication unit  14 . The second sample analyzer  2  also includes a wireless communication unit  24 . The wireless communication units  14 ,  24  comply with a common wireless communication standard IEEE 802.11, and can communicate with each other. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing a configuration of the first sample analyzer  1 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the first sample analyzer  1  transports a sample rack holding a plurality of sample containers with the sample transport unit  12 , and aspirates a sample from the sample container and analyzes the sample with the measurement unit  11 . The sample container T has a tubular shape with the upper end opened. The sample container T interiorly accommodates a blood sample collected from a patient, and the opening at the upper end is sealed with a lid. A barcode label is attached to a side surface of the sample container T. A barcode indicating a sample ID is printed on the barcode label. The sample rack L can hold ten sample containers T in a line. Each sample container T is held in a perpendicular state (upright position state) in the sample rack L. A barcode label is attached to a side surface of the sample rack L. A barcode indicating a rack ID is printed on the barcode label. 
     Configuration of First Sample Analyzer 
     A configuration of the first sample analyzer  1  will be hereinafter described. 
     Configuration of Measurement Unit 
     A configuration of a measurement unit will now be described. As shown in  FIG. 2 , on a front surface of the measurement unit  11  is provided a take-in port for taking in the sample container T to inside the measurement unit  11 , and a sample container take-in portion  11   a  for taking in the sample container T from the sample rack L to the inside of the measurement unit  11  and transporting the sample container T to an aspirating position by a sample aspirating portion. An installing portion  11   b , to which the sample container T can be installed, is arranged in the sample container take-in portion  11   a . In a sampler mode to be described later, the sample container T transported by the sample transport unit  12  is automatically taken into the measurement unit  11  by the sample container take-in portion  11   a , and the sample measurement is carried out. In a manual mode, the sample container take-in portion  11   a  moves forward from the take-in port, the operator installs the sample container T in the installing portion  11   b  and turns ON a measurement start switch provided on a front surface of the measurement unit  11 , whereby the sample container T is taken into the measurement unit  11  and the sample measurement is carried out. 
       FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing one part of a configuration of the measurement unit  11 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the measurement unit  11  includes a detecting section  111 , an ammeter  112 , a water leakage sensor  113 , a pressure sensor  114 , a reagent container  115 , an air bubble sensor  116 , a drainage tank  117 , a liquid amount sensor  118 , and a communication section  119 . The detecting section  111  is configured as an optical detector capable of performing WBC measurement (counting of white blood cells) and DIFF measurement (classification of white blood cells). The detecting section  111  is configured to be able to carry out the detection of WBC (white blood cells), NEUT (neutrophil cells), LYMPH (lymphocytes), EO (eosinocytes), BASO (basocytes), and MONO (monocytes) through a flow cytometry method using a semiconductor laser. 
     The measurement of the measurement specimen in which staining reagent, hemolytic agent, and diluted solution are mixed is carried out by the detecting section  111 , and the obtained measurement data are subjected to analysis processing by the information processing unit  13  to perform the measurement of NEUT, LYMPH, EO, BASO, MONO, and WBC. 
     The detecting section  111  includes a flow cell, and irradiates the measurement specimen fed to the flow cell with semiconductor laser light. The forward scattered light, the side scattered light, and the side fluorescence generated in this case are received, and the forward scattered light intensity, the side scattered light intensity, and the side fluorescence light intensity are detected. The measurement data including each optical information of the forward scattered light intensity, the side scattered light intensity, and the side fluorescence intensity obtained in such manner is transmitted from the measurement unit  11  to the information processing unit  13 , and analyzed by the information processing unit  13 . 
     The ammeter  112  measures the output current of the semiconductor laser irradiating portion of the detecting section  111 . The measurement value of the laser output current is provided to the information processing unit  13 , and determination is made that laser output abnormality occurred when the laser output current value exceeds a predetermined value. 
     The water leakage sensor  113  detects the water leakage inside the measurement unit  11 . When the water leakage sensor  113  detects the water leakage, the detection signal is provided to the information processing unit  13 , and determination is made that the leakage water abnormality occurred. 
     The pressure sensor  114  detects the pressure at a predetermined area inside the measurement unit  11 . The data of the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor is provided to the information processing unit  13 , and determination is made that the pressure abnormality occurred when the pressure value deviates from the normal range. 
     The reagent container  115  contains the reagent (staining reagent, hemolytic agent, diluted solution, etc.) used for the sample measurement. Such reagent container  115  is installed inside the measurement unit  11 , and connected to a fluid circuit connecting to the detecting section  111 . The air bubble sensor  116  is attached to the distribution line of the reagent connecting to the reagent container. The air bubble sensor  116  detects the air bubbles in the distribution line. When the air bubble sensor  116  detects the air bubbles, the detection signal is provided to the information processing unit  13 , and determination is made that reagent remaining amount abnormality of the reagent container  115  occurred. 
     The drainage tank  117  contains the drainage (mixed solution of used sample and reagent, etc.) produced by the measurement of the sample. A distribution line for the drainage is arranged from the detecting section  111  to the drainage tank  117 , so that the drainage produced by the detecting section  111  is discharged to the drainage tank  117 . 
     The liquid amount sensor  118  is installed in the drainage tank  117  to detect the liquid amount of the drainage tank  117 . The detection signal of the liquid amount sensor  118  is provided to the information processing unit  13 , and determination is made that the drainage abnormality (full drainage) occurred when the liquid amount exceeds a predetermined value. 
     The communication section  119  is configured by an input/output interface such as USB, IEEE 1394, RS-232C, and the like. The communication section  119  is connected to the ammeter  112 , the water leakage sensor  113 , the pressure sensor  114 , the air bubble sensor  116 , and the liquid amount sensor  118 , and is configured to receive the signals output from the sensors. The communication section  119  is also connected to the information processing unit  13 , so that the information processing unit  13  and the measurement unit  11  can communicate with each other. 
     A barcode reading section  11   c  is arranged inside the measurement unit  11 . The barcode reading section  11   c  reads the sample ID from the sample barcode of the sample container T taken into the measurement unit  11 . A barcode reading section  12   a  is connected to the communication section  119 , and the read sample ID is provided to the information processing unit  13  through the communication section  119 . The information processing unit  13  acquires the measurement order with the sample ID as the key, and the measurement unit  11  is controlled to perform the sample measurement of the item specified in the measurement order. The sample is aspirated from the sample container T, from which the sample ID is read, at inside the measurement unit  11 , the sample is mixed with the reagent, and the sample measurement is carried out. 
     Configuration of Sample Transport Unit 
     A configuration of the sample transport unit  12  will now be described. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the sample transport unit  12  is arranged on the front side of the measurement unit  11  of the first sample analyzer  1 . Such sample transport unit  12  can transport the sample rack L to supply the sample to the measurement unit  11 . 
     The sample transport unit  12  includes a pre-analysis rack holder  121 , which can temporarily hold a plurality of sample racks L that holds the sample container T accommodating the sample before performed with analysis; a post-analysis rack holder  122 , which can temporarily hold the plurality of sample racks L that holds the sample container T from which the sample is aspirated by the measurement unit  11 , and a rack transporting portion  123  for linearly moving the sample rack L horizontally to traverse the front of the measurement unit  11  and transport the sample rack L received from the pre-analysis rack holder  121  to the post-analysis rack holder  122  to provide the sample to the measurement unit  11 . The barcode reading section  12   a  for reading the rack ID from the rack barcode is arranged proximate to the rack transporting portion  123  of the sample transport unit  12  (see  FIG. 3 ). The barcode reading section  12   a  is connected to the communication section  119  of the measurement unit  11 , and the read rack ID is provided to the information processing unit  13  through the communication section  119 . In the sampler mode, the sample rack L set in the pre-analysis rack holder  121  is moved by the rack transporting portion  123 , and the rack ID is read from the sample rack L of the rack transporting portion  123  by the rack barcode reading section  12   a . The read rack ID is provided to the information processing unit  13 . The sample container T at a predetermined position of the rack transporting portion  123  is taken inside the measurement unit  11  by the sample container take-in portion  11   a  and then the sample is measured. The sample container T after the sample is aspirated is discharged from the measurement unit  11  and returned to the original position of the sample rack L. After the sample is aspirated from all the sample containers held in the sample rack L, the sample rack L is transferred to the post-analysis rack holder  121 . 
     Configuration of Information Processing Unit 
     A configuration of the information processing unit  13  will now be described. The information processing unit  13  is configured by a computer.  FIG. 4  is a block diagram showing a configuration of the information processing unit  13 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , a computer  13   a  includes a main body  31 , an image display unit  132 , and an input unit  133 . The main body  31  includes a CPU  31   a , a ROM  31   b , a RAM  31   c , a hard disc  31   d , a readout device  31   e , an input/output interface  31   f , a communication interface  31   g , and an image output interface  31   h , where the CPU  31   a , the ROM  31   b , the RAM  31   c , the hard disc  31   d , the readout device  31   e , the input/output interface  31   f , the communication interface  31   g  and the image output interface  31   h  are connected by a bus  31   j.    
     The CPU  31   a  is capable of executing the computer program loaded in the RAM  31   c . When the CPU  31   a  executes the computer program  34   a  for the sample analysis and for the control for the measurement unit  11  and the sample transport unit  12  to be described later, the computer  13   a  functions as the information processing unit  13 . 
     The ROM  31   b  is configured by mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, and the like, and is recorded with computer programs to be executed by the CPU  31   a , data used for the same, and the like. The RAM  31   c  is configured by SRAM, DRAM, and the like. The RAM  31   c  is used to read out the computer programs  34   a  recorded on the hard disc  31   d . The CPU  31   a  is used as an operation region of the CPU  31   a  when the CPU  31   a  executes the computer program. 
     The hard disc  31   d  is installed with various computer programs to be executed by the CPU  31   a  such as operating system and application program, as well as data used in executing the computer program. The computer program  34   a  to be described later is also installed in the hard disc  31   d.    
     The read-out device  31   e  is configured by flexible disc drive, CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, or the like, and reads the computer programs or data recorded on a portable recording medium  34 . The portable recording medium  34  stores the computer program  34   a  for causing the computer to function as the information processing unit  13 , where the computer  13   a  can read out the computer program  34   a  from the portable recording medium  34  and install the computer program  34   a  in the hard disc  31   d.    
     The hard disc  31   d  is installed with a multi-task operation system such as Windows (registered trademark) manufactured and sold by US Microsoft, for example. In the following description, the computer program  34   a  according to the present embodiment is assumed to operate on the operating system. 
     The hard disc  31   d  stores reagent remaining amount information  34   b  and the setting information  34   c .  FIG. 5  is a schematic view showing a configuration of the reagent remaining amount information  34   b . The remaining amount of the reagent is stored as the reagent remaining amount information  34   b  for every type of reagent (diluted solution, white blood cells classification hemolytic agent, white blood cells classification stain fluid). The remaining amount of reagent is represented by the number of measurements indicating the number of times the measurement can be carried out. 
     As will be described later, when the first sample analyzer  1  is used for sample analysis, and the second sample analyzer  2  is not used for sample analysis for the backup, the second sample analyzer  2  is automatically activated at the occurrence of a specific abnormality in the first sample analyzer  1 . That is, the second sample analyzer  2  is activated when a specific abnormality occurs in the first sample analyzer  1 , but the second sample analyzer  2  is not activated when an abnormality other than the specific abnormality occurs in the first sample analyzer  1 . The hard disc  31   d  includes a first abnormality database DB 1  and a second abnormality database DB 2  for storing data defining the abnormality to activate the second sample analyzer. 
       FIG. 6  is a schematic view showing a configuration of the first abnormality database DB 1 , and  FIG. 7  is a schematic view showing a configuration of the second abnormality database DB 2 . The first abnormality database DB 1  is a database for defining the abnormality to activate the second sample analyzer  2 . The first abnormality database DB 1  stores in advance information (error code) for identifying the abnormality that requires a serviceman for recovery. For example, the laser output abnormality and the water leakage abnormality are abnormalities that require the serviceman, and such error codes are registered in the first abnormality database DB 1 . When an abnormality occurs in the first sample analyzer  1 , the first abnormality database DB 1  is referenced, and the second sample analyzer  2  is automatically activated if the error code of the abnormality that occurred matches the error code registered in the first abnormality database DB 1 . This is to suppress the sample processing from stagnating as much as possible by activating the second sample analyzer  2  at the occurrence of this type of abnormality since a relatively long time is required for recovery. The abnormality registered in the first abnormality database DB 1  cannot be setting changed by a user. 
     The second abnormality database DB 2  is a database that can be setting changed by the user. The second abnormality database DB 2  includes a field for storing information (error code) for identifying the abnormality that can be recovered by user alone, and a field for storing information (usage set value) indicating whether or not to use for the activation of the second sample analyzer  2 . When activating the second sample analyzer  2  upon occurrence of a corresponding abnormality, the usage set value is set to “1”, and when not activating the second sample analyzer  2  upon occurrence of a corresponding abnormality, the usage set value is set to “0”. The usage set value can be setting changed by the user. For example, the abnormalities such as pressure abnormality, no remaining amount of reagent, and full discarding liquid are abnormalities that can be handled with the user alone, and such error codes are stored in the second abnormality database DB 2 . In the example shown in  FIG. 7 , the usage set value is set to “1” for “pressure abnormality” and “no remaining amount of reagent”, and the usage set value is set to “0” for “full discarding liquid”. When an abnormality occurs in the first sample analyzer  1 , the second abnormality database DB 2  is referenced, and the second sample analyzer  2  is automatically activated if the error code of the abnormality that occurred matches the error code registered in the second abnormality database DB 2  and the usage set value thereof is “1”. If the error code of an abnormality occurring in the first sample analyzer  1  matches the error code registered in the second abnormality database DB 2  and the usage set value is “0”, the second sample analyzer  2  is not activated. This type of abnormality may be an abnormality that requires a relatively long time for recovery or an abnormality that does not require a relatively long time for recovery according to the facility of the user. In the present embodiment, the user can freely set whether or not to activate the second sample analyzer  2  for each abnormality registered in the second abnormality database DB 2 . 
     The input/output interface  31   f  includes a serial interface such as USB, IEEE1394, and RS-232C; a parallel interface such as SCSI, IDE, and IEEE1284; and an analog interface such as D/A converter and A/D converter. The input/output interface  31   f  is connected to the input unit  133  including a keyboard and a mouse, and the operator can use the input unit  133  to input data to the computer  13   a . The input/output interface  31   f  is connected to the measurement unit  11  and the sample transport unit  12 . The information processing unit  13  can control each of the measurement unit  11  and the sample transport unit  12 . 
     The input/output interface  31   f  is connected to the wireless communication unit  14 . The information processing unit  13  can transmit and receive data with the second sample analyzer  2  through the wireless communication unit  14 . 
     The communication interface  31   g  is, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) interface. The communication interface  31   g  is connected to a host computer (not shown) through a LAN. The computer  13   a  transmits and receives data with the host computer connected to the LAN using a predetermined communication protocol by means of the communication interface  31   g.    
     The image output interface  31   h  is connected to the image display unit  132  configured by LCD, CRT, or the like, and is configured to output an image signal corresponding to the image data provided from the CPU  31   a  to the image display unit  132 . The image display unit  132  displays the image (screen) according to the input image signal. 
     Configuration of Second Sample Analyzer 
     A configuration of the second sample analyzer  2  will be hereinafter described. 
     The second sample analyzer  2  is a multi-item blood cell analyzer, same as the first sample analyzer  1 . Therefore, the second sample analyzer  2  can perform sample analysis on the measurement item common with the first sample analyzer  1 . In other words, the second sample analyzer  2  can measure the NEUT, LYMPH, EO, BASO, MONO, and WBC. 
     The second sample analyzer  2  also includes a measurement unit  21 , a sample transport unit  22 , and an information processing unit  23 , same as the first sample analyzer  1 . The configurations of the measurement unit  21  and the sample transport unit  22  of the second sample analyzer  2  are similar to the configurations of the measurement unit  11  and the sample transport unit  12  of the first sample analyzer  1 , and hence the description thereof will be omitted. 
       FIG. 8  is a block diagram showing a configuration of the information processing unit  23  of the second sample analyzer  2 . The information processing unit  23  is configured by a computer. As shown in  FIG. 8 , a computer  23   a  includes a main body  41 , an image display unit  232 , and an input unit  233 . The main body  41  includes a CPU  41   a , a ROM  41   b , a RAM  41   c , a hard disc  41   d , a readout device  41   e , an input/output interface  41   f , a communication interface  41   g , and an image output interface  41   h , where the CPU  41   a , the ROM  41   b , the RAM  41   c , the hard disc  41   d , the readout device  41   e , the input/output interface  41   f , the communication interface  41   g , and the image output interface  41   h  are connected with a bus  41   j.    
     The input/output interface  41   f  includes a serial interface such as USB, IEEE1394, and RS-232C; a parallel interface such as SCSI, IDE, and IEEE1284; and an analog interface such as D/A converter and A/D converter. The input/output interface  41   f  is connected to the input unit  233  including a keyboard and a mouse, and the operator can use the input unit  233  to input data to the computer  23   a . The input/output interface  41   f  is connected to the measurement unit  21  and the sample transport unit  22 . The information processing unit  13  can control each of the measurement unit  21  and the sample transport unit  22 . 
     The input/output interface  41   f  is connected to the wireless communication unit  24 . The information processing unit  23  can transmit and receive data with the first sample analyzer  1  through the wireless communication unit  24 . The wireless communication unit  24  can activate the second sample analyzer  2  in a shutdown state by receiving a predetermined activation signal. The shutdown state is a state in which power is not supplied to the measurement unit  21 , the sample transport unit  22 , and the information processing unit  23 , and power is supplied to the input/output interface  41   f  and the wireless communication unit  24 . In this state, the wireless communication unit  24  can receive the activation signal, where the information processing unit  23  is automatically activated through the input/output interface  41   f  when the wireless communication unit  24  receives the activation signal. When the information processing unit  23  is activated, the measurement unit  21  and the sample transport unit  22  are also activated accordingly and the entire second sample analyzer  2  is activated. In other words, the shutdown state is also a standby state for the second sample analyzer  2  to wait for the reception of the activation signal. When the activation signal is transmitted, the state of the second sample analyzer  2  is changed from the standby state to the operating state. 
     Other configurations of the information processing unit  23  are similar to the configurations of the information processing unit  13 , and thus the description thereof will be omitted. 
     Configuration of Sample Analyzing System 
     The operation of the sample analyzing system  100  according to the present embodiment will now be described. Hereinafter, a case in which the first sample analyzer  1  is the sample analyzer (hereinafter also referred to as “main device”) that is mainly used, and the second sample analyzer  2  is the backup sample analyzer (hereinafter also referred to as “sub-device”) will be described. 
     When sample analysis is carried out by the first sample analyzer  1 , the first sample analyzer  1  is set with the operation mode. The operation mode includes a sampler mode and a manual mode, which are set when the operator operates the input unit  133  of the information processing unit  13 . 
     If the sampler mode is set, the sample rack L holding the sample container T is mounted on the pre-analysis rack holder  121  of the sample transport unit  12  by the operator. The sample rack L mounted on the pre-analysis rack holder  121  is automatically transported by the sample transport unit  12  and transferred on the rack transporting portion  123 . During this time, the rack ID is read from the rack barcode of the sample rack L by the barcode reading section  12   a , and stored in the RAM  31   c  of the information processing unit  13  as the rack ID of the sample rack L, in which the sample container being subjected to sample analysis is held, at this time point. 
     The sample rack is taken into the measurement unit  11  by the sample container take-in portion  11   a  from the sample rack L in the rack transporting portion  123 . In this case, the information of the holding position of the sample rack L from which the sample container T is taken out is stored in the RAM  31   c  of the information processing unit  13  as the holding position where the sample container, on which the sample analysis is being carried out at the relevant time point, is held. That is, the information of the rack ID and the holding position on the sample to be performed with sample analysis at the relevant time point are stored in the RAM  31   c . The barcode reading section  11   c  reads the sample ID from the sample barcode of the sample container T in the measurement unit  11 . The CPU  31   a  of the information processing unit  13  acquires order information corresponding to the sample ID from a job list registered in advance in the hard disc  31   d  or the host computer connected through the communication network. 
     After the order information is acquired, the sample is aspirated from the sample container T, and the sample measurement of the item specified in the order information is carried out by the measurement unit  11 . The sample container T in which the aspiration of the sample is completed is discharged from the measurement unit  11  and returned to the original holding position of the sample rack L. In the sample measurement, the reagent and the sample are mixed to prepare the measurement specimen, and the measurement specimen is optically or electrically measured. The measurement data (raw data) obtained by the measurement is provided to the information processing unit  13 , so that the CPU  31   a  of the information processing unit  13  performs an analysis processing to obtain the analysis result. The obtained analysis result is displayed on the image display unit  132 . 
     Such sample measurement is carried out for all the sample containers T of the sample rack L. After the last sample container T is returned to the sample rack L, the sample rack L is transferred from the rack transporting portion  123  to the post-analysis rack holding portion  122 . Such operation is carried out on all the sample racks L mounted in the pre-analysis rack holding portion  121 . 
     If the manual mode is set, the operator pushes a take-in button (button switch arranged on the front surface of the measurement unit  11 ) that instructs the take-in of the sample container T. The sample container take-in portion  11   a  thereby moves forward from the take-in port. The operator installs the sample container T on the installing portion  11   b , and turns ON a measurement start switch arranged on the front surface of the measurement unit  11 . The sample container T is thereby taken into the measurement unit  11 . 
     After the sample container T is taken inside the measurement unit  11 , the sample ID is read, the order information is acquired, the sample is aspirated, and the sample is measured, similar to the sampler mode. The sample container T from which the sample is aspirated is discharged to outside the measurement unit  11  when the sample container take-in portion  11   a  moves forward from the take-in port. The operator removes the sample container T from the sample container take-in portion  11   a , installs the sample container T accommodating the sample to be measured next in the sample container take-in portion  11   a , and turns ON the measurement start switch. The next sample container T is thereby taken into the measurement unit  11 , and the sample measurement is carried out. 
     The information processing unit  13  of the first sample analyzer  1  monitors the occurrence of abnormality of the first sample analyzer  1 .  FIG. 9  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit  13  of the first sample analyzer  1  in this case. The monitoring of the occurrence of abnormality of the first sample analyzer  1  is carried out by having the CPU  31   a  monitor the output signals of the ammeter  112 , the water leakage sensor  113 , the pressure sensor  114 , and the liquid amount sensor  118 . The CPU  31   a  determines whether or not error is detected (step S 101 ), and again executes the processing of step S 101  if the error is not detected (NO in step S 101 ). 
     If the error is detected in step S 101  (YES in step S 101 ), the CPU  31   a  references the first abnormality database DB 1  and the second abnormality database DB 2 , and determines whether or not the detected abnormality is the abnormality for activating the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device (step S 102 ). If the detected abnormality is not the abnormality for activating the sub-device (NO in step S 102 ), the CPU  31   a  terminates the processing. 
     If the detected abnormality is the abnormality for activating the sub-device (YES in step S 102 ), the CPU  31   a  transmits an activation signal for activating the sub-device to the wireless communication unit  14  (step S 103 ). Thereafter, the CPU  31   a  causes the wireless communication unit  14  to transmit activation check data for checking that activation has been performed to the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device (step S 104 ). After the transmission of the activation check data, the CPU  31   a  determines whether or not response data is received from the second sample analyzer  2  (step S 105 ), and determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the transmission of the activation signal (step S 106 ) if the response data is not received (NO in step S 105 ). If the predetermined time has not elapsed from the transmission of the activation signal in step S 106  (NO in step S 106 ), the CPU  31   a  returns the processing to step S 104  and causes the wireless communication unit  14  to transmit the activation check data again. 
     The operation of the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, will now be described.  FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit  23  of the second sample analyzer  2 . When the wireless communication unit  24  receives the activation signal (step S 201 ), the activation processing is executed by the CPU  41   a  through the input/output interface  41   f  (step S 202 ). The measurement unit  21 , the sample transport unit  22 , and the information processing unit  23  are activated by the activation processing. After the activation processing is finished, the activation check data is received by the wireless communication unit  24  and provided to the CPU  41   a  (step S 203 ). When receiving the activation check data, the CPU  41   a  transmits response data, which is ACK signal with respect to the activation check data, to the wireless communication unit  24  (step S 204 ). 
     The description now returns to the operation of the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device. When the wireless communication unit  24  receives the response data from the sub-device, the response data is provided to the CPU  31   a  (YES in step S 105 ). In this case, the CPU  31   a  transmits the setting information used in the setting of the sub-device to the wireless communication unit  14  (step S 108 ). 
     The setting information includes a case in which the setting information instructing mode setting and setting information instructing order registration are included, and a case in which only the setting information instructing mode setting is included.  FIG. 11  is a view describing the setting information. The setting information instructing the mode setting (hereinafter referred to as “mode setting information”) starts from a mode setting instructing identifier “SU”). A data-delimiter “¥” follows after the mode setting instructing identifier, and then the mode information follows thereto. The mode information is information indicating the mode to set to the sub-device, and is “Sampler” in the case of sampler mode and “Manual” in the case of manual mode. 
     If the mode setting information is information instructing the setting of the sampler mode to the sub-device, the setting information includes setting information instructing order registration (hereinafter referred to as “order registration information”). The order registration information starts from an order registration instructing identifier “JR”. A data-delimiter “¥” follows after the order registration instructing identifier, and then each information of rack ID, position of sample container, sample ID, patient ID, measurement item, order presence/absence follows thereto. The data-delimiter “¥” is inserted between the information. In the example of the order registration information shown in  FIG. 11 , the rack ID is “10001”, the position of the sample container is “01”, the sample ID is “20111124 101 Sampler 001”, the patient ID is “Patient ID 000001”, the measurement item is “WBC”, the order presence/absence thereof is “1”, the next measurement item is “HGB”, the order presence/absence thereof is “1”, the next measurement item is “HCT”, and the order presence/absence thereof is “0”. 
     The order registration information includes order information on all the samples held in the sample rack L on the rack transporting portion  123  at the time point the error occurred (i.e., time point of executing step S 108 ). That is, as described above, if the first sample analyzer  1  is operating in the sampler mode, the RAM  31   c  of the information processing unit  13  stores the rack ID of the sample rack L on the rack transporting portion  123  at the relevant time point. If error occurs in the first sample analyzer  1  in a state the sampler mode is set, the CPU  31   a  generates the setting information including the mode setting information instructing the setting of the sampler mode to the sub-device and the order registration information including the order information of the sample rack L in the middle of the sample measurement at the relevant time point. More specifically, the CPU  31   a  reads out the order information including the rack ID from the hard disc  31   d  of the information processing unit  31  with the rack ID stored in the RAM  31   c  at the relevant time point as the key, and generates the order registration information from the sample ID, the patient ID, and the measurement item in which measurement is specified contained in the order information. 
     If error occurs in a state the first sample analyzer  1  is set to the manual mode, the CPU  31   a  generates the setting information including only the mode setting information instructing the setting of the manual mode to the sub-device. 
     After the setting information generated in such manner is transmitted by the wireless communication unit  14 , the CPU  31   a  displays a sub-device activation notifying screen for notifying the operator that the activation of the sub-device is completed on the image display unit  132  (step S 109 ), and terminates the processing. 
     If a predetermined time has elapsed from the transmission of the activation signal without receiving the response data from the sub-device (NO in step S 106 ), the CPU  31   a  displays activation error information notifying that the activation of the sub-device failed on the image display unit  132  (step S 107 ), and terminates the processing. The operator thus can recognize that the activation of the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, failed by checking the activation error information without moving close to the second sample analyzer  2  to check. 
     The operation of the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, will now be described. After transmitting the response data with respect to the activation check data to the wireless communication unit  24 , the setting information is transmitted from the first sample analyzer  1 . The setting information is received by the wireless communication unit  24  and provided to the CPU  41   a  (step S 205 ). The CPU  41   a  determines which operation mode, the sampler mode or the manual mode, is instructed to be set in the setting information (step S 206 ). If the setting of the sampler mode is instructed (“sampler mode” in step S 206 ), the CPU  41   a  sets the operation mode to the sampler mode (step S 207 ). In this case, the CPU  41   a  determines whether or not the setting information includes the order registration instructing information (step S 208 ), registers the order information in the hard disc  41   d  according to the order registration instructing information (step S 209 ) if the setting information includes the order registration instructing information (YES in step S 208 ), and terminates the processing. If the setting information does not include the order registration instructing information (NO in step S 208 ), the CPU  41   a  terminates the processing as it is. 
     If the setting of the manual mode is instructed in the setting information (“manual mode” in step S 206 ), the CPU  41   a  sets the operation mode to the manual mode (step S 210 ) and terminates the processing. 
     The sub-device activation notifying screen will be described below. In step S 109 , the information to display changes according to the operation setting state of the first sample analyzer  1  at the time point error occurred.  FIG. 12  is a view showing one example of a sub-device activation notifying screen. At the time point error occurred in the first sample analyzer  1 , when the sampler mode is set and the sample rack L is being automatically transported by the sample transport unit  12 , information notifying to move the sample rack L on the rack transporting portion  123  to the sub-device is displayed. In the sub-device activation notifying screen D 1 , the rack ID of the sample rack L on the rack transporting portion  123  is shown, and a message notifying to move the sample rack L to the sub-device is shown. Furthermore, in the sub-device activation notifying screen D 1 , a message notifying to move the sample rack L in which measurement is not yet performed, that is, the sample rack L held in the pre-analysis rack holding portion  121  to the sub-device is shown. Furthermore, graphic information G 1 , which is an illustration, showing to move the sample rack L from the main device to the sub-device, is displayed with such messages. The sub-device activation notifying screen D 1  is created using the rack ID stored in the RAM  31   c . In such sub-device activation notifying screen D 1 , an OK button C 1 , which is a button control, is displayed, so that the sub-device activation notifying screen D 1  is closed when the operator selects the OK button C 1  with the click operation of the mouse, and the like. 
     In addition, the sub-device activation notifying screen including a message indicating that the sub-device is activated is displayed if error occurred in the first sample analyzer  1  operating in the manual mode. 
     When the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, is activated, the operator uses the second sample analyzer  2  to continue the sample analysis. While performing the sample analysis in the second sample analyzer  2 , the operator or the service man can perform the recovery work of the first sample analyzer. 
     After the first sample analyzer  1  is recovered, the sample analysis can be carried out again by the first sample analyzer  1 . In this case, the second sample analyzer  2  for backup is again returned to the shutdown state. In the sample analyzing system  100  according to the present embodiment, the second sample analyzer  2  can be remotely shut down from the first sample analyzer  1  in this case. The remote shutdown operation will be described below. 
       FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a procedure of the operation of the information processing unit  13  of the first sample analyzer  1  in the remote shutdown operation, and  FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit  23  of the second sample analyzer  2  in the remote shutdown operation. In the information processing unit  13 , a screen for remotely instructing the shutdown of the sub-device can be displayed. In this screen, the operator can instruct the shutdown of the sub-device. After the recovery work of the first sample analyzer  1  is finished, the operator operates the input unit  133  of the information processing unit  13  to instruct remote shutdown of the sub-device. The CPU  31   a  determines whether or not the shutdown instruction of the sub-device is received (step S 301 ), causes the wireless communication unit  14  to transmit the shutdown instructing data instructing the shutdown (step S 302 ) when receiving the shutdown instruction of the sub-device (YES in step S 301 ), and terminates the processing. If the shutdown instruction of the sub-device is not received (NO in step S 301 ), the CPU  41   a  terminates the processing as it is. 
     The CPU  41   a  of the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, determines whether or not the shutdown instructing data is received by the wireless communication unit  24  (step S 401 ). If the shutdown instructing data is not received by the wireless communication unit  24  (NO in step S 401 ), the CPU  41   a  again executes the processing of step S 401 . The CPU  41   a  waits for the reception of the shutdown instructing data by repeating the above processing. 
     If the shutdown instructing data is received by the wireless communication unit  24 , the shutdown instructing data is provided to the CPU  41   a . In this case (YES in step S 401 ), the CPU  41   a  executes the shutdown processing of the second sample analyzer  2  (step S 402 ), and terminates the processing. 
     According to the above configuration, when a trouble such as a specific abnormality occurs in the first sample analyzer, which is the main device, the second sample analyzer, which is the sub-device, is automatically activated so that the second sample analyzer can be rapidly activated compared to the prior art. Furthermore, the second sample analyzer is automatically activated and the sample processing can be suppressed from stagnating even when the operator does not notice the occurrence of abnormality in the first sample analyzer or when a great amount of time is required in the determination on whether or not the abnormality that takes time to recover. 
     Since the first sample analyzer  1  transmits the setting information based on the operation setting at the time point of occurrence of error, and the second sample analyzer  2  performs the operation setting of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the setting information received by the second sample analyzer  2 , the activated second sample analyzer can be set to a state preferred at the relevant time point. For example, the operation mode of the second sample analyzer is instructed to be set to the sampler mode in the setting information when the first sample analyzer  1  is operating in the sampler mode, and the operation mode of the second sample analyze is instructed to be set to the manual mode in the setting information when the first sample analyzer  1  is operating in the manual mode. Thus, the operator can use the second sample analyzer  2  similar to the first sample analyzer  1  before the occurrence of error. 
     When the first sample analyzer  1  is operating in the sampler mode, the order information of the sample held in the sample rack L being transported to the rack transporting portion  123  is transmitted to the second sample analyzer  2  by the setting information, and the second sample analyzer  2  registers the order according to the received setting information. The operator then can analyze the sample of the sample rack L being transported without registering the order information in the second sample analyzer  2  by moving the sample rack L on the rack transporting portion  123  of the first sample analyzer  1  to the second sample analyzer  2 . 
     Furthermore, since the sub-device activation notifying screen is displayed on the image display unit  132  of the first sample analyzer  1 , the operator can easily recognize which sample rack L to move to the second sample analyzer  2  by checking the screen. 
     Second Embodiment 
     Configuration of Sample Analyzing System 
       FIG. 15  is a schematic view showing an overall configuration of a sample analyzing system according to the present embodiment. A sample analyzing system  200  according to the present embodiment includes a first sample analyzer  1 , a second sample analyzer  2 , and a test information management device  5 . The first sample analyzer  1  includes the wireless communication unit  14 , and the second sample analyzer  2  includes the wireless communication unit  24 . The configurations of the first sample analyzer  1 , the second sample analyzer  2 , and the wireless communication units  14 ,  24  are similar to the configurations described in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. 
     The test information management device  5  is a device for managing the test information (order information, sample analysis result, etc.) of the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2 .  FIG. 16  is a block diagram showing a configuration of the test information management device  5 . The test information management device  5  is configured by a computer. As shown in  FIG. 16 , a computer  5   a  includes a main body  51 , an image display unit  52 , and an input unit  53 . The main body  51  includes a CPU  51   a , a ROM  51   b , a RAM  51   c , a hard disc  51   d , a readout device  51   e , an input/output interface  51   f , a communication interface  51   g , and an image output interface  51   h , where the CPU  51   a , the ROM  51   b , the RAM  51   c , the hard disc  51   d , the readout device  51   e , the input/output interface  51   f , the communication interface  51   g , and the image output interface  51   h  are connected by a bus  51   j.    
     The communication interface  51   g  is Ethernet (registered trademark) interface. The communication interface  51   g  is connected to the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  through the LAN. The computer  5   a  can transmit and receive data with the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  connected to the LAN using a predetermined communication protocol by the communication interface  51   g.    
     The hard disc  51   d  includes an order information database DB 3  and an analysis result database DB 4 . The order information input from the operator is registered in the order information database DB 3 . The analysis results of the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  are stored in the analysis result database DB 4 . 
     Other configurations of the test information management device  5  are similar to the configurations of the information processing unit  13  described in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. 
     Configuration of Sample Analyzing System 
     The test information management device  5  can register the order information by the input from the operator. When reading the sample ID from the sample container T, the first sample analyzer  1  or the second sample analyzer  2  makes an order inquiry to the test information management device  5  with the relevant sample ID as a key. The test information management device  5  searches the order information that matches the sample ID in the database DB 3  in response to the order inquiry, and transmits the searched order information to the sample analyzer that made the inquiry. The order information is provided to the sample analyzer in such manner. 
     The first sample analyzer  1  or the second sample analyzer  2  performs the sample analysis according to the acquired order information, and transmits the sample analysis result to the test information management device  5 . When receiving the sample analysis result, the test information management device  5  registers the received sample analysis result in the analysis result database DB 4 . 
     A case in which the first sample analyzer  1  is the main device and the second sample analyzer  2  is the sub-device will be hereinafter described. 
       FIG. 17  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the test information management device  5  according to the present embodiment. In this case, the order information is transmitted only to the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, from the test information management device  5 . The CPU  51   a  of the test information management device  5  calculates the number of order information (hereinafter referred to as “number of order registration”) registered in the order information database DB 3 , and determines whether or not the number of order registrations is greater than or equal to a predetermined reference value (step S 501 ). If the number of order registrations is greater than or equal to the reference value (YES in step S 501 ), the CPU  51   a  transmits number of order notifying data indicating the number of order registrations to the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device (step S 502 ), and terminates the processing. If the number of order registration is smaller than the reference value (NO in step S 501 ), the CPU  51   a  terminates the processing as it is. 
       FIG. 18  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit  13  of the first sample analyzer  1  according to the present embodiment. The CPU  31   a  of the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, determines whether or not the number of order notifying data transmitted from the test information management device is received (step S 601 ). If the information processing unit  13  has not received the number of order notifying data (NO in step S 601 ), the CPU  31   a  again executes the processing of step S 601 . The CPU  31   a  waits for the reception of the number of order notifying data by repeating the above processing. 
     If the number of order notifying data is received by the information processing unit  13 , such number of order notifying data is provided to the CPU  31   a . In this case (YES in step S 601 ), the CPU  31   a  references the reagent remaining amount information  34   b , and determines whether or not the remaining amount of reagent is insufficient for the sample analysis of the number of order registrations (step S 602 ). If not determined that the remaining amount of reagent is insufficient (NO in step S 602 ), the CPU  31   a  terminates the processing as it is. 
     If determined that the remaining amount of reagent is insufficient (YES in step S 602 ), determination can be made that the number of order registrations is excessively large with only the first sample analyzer  1 , and thus the CPU  31   a  transmits an activation signal for activating the sub-device to the wireless communication unit  14  (step S 603 ). 
     The processing of steps S 604  to S 609  are similar to the processing of steps S 104  to S 109  described in the first embodiment, and hence the description thereof will be omitted. In the sub-device activation notifying screen displayed in step S 609 , the rack ID of the moving sample rack L is not displayed, and a message indicating that the activation of the sub-device is completed, and that the sample rack L holding the non-measured sample is moved to the sub-device, and the like is displayed. 
     The operation of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the present embodiment is similar to the operation of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. 
     According to the above configuration, if the number of order registrations is excessively large with respect to the processing ability of the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, is automatically activated, and hence the sub-device is efficiently activated and the sample processing ability of the entire sample analyzing system  200  can be rapidly increased. 
     Third Embodiment 
     The second sample analyzer  2  according to the present embodiment has power supplied to the communication interface  41   g  in the shutdown state. In this state, the communication interface  41   g  is able to receive the activation signal, and the power of the information processing unit  23  can be turned ON when the communication interface  41   g  receives the activation signal. The information processing unit  23  is thereby automatically activated. When the information processing unit  23  is activated, the measurement unit  21  and the sample transport unit  22  are also activated accordingly, and the entire second sample analyzer  2  is activated. Other configurations of the sample analyzing system according to the present embodiment are similar to the configurations of the sample analyzing system  200  according to the second embodiment, and hence the same reference numerals are denoted on the same configuring elements and the description thereof will be omitted. 
       FIG. 19  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the test information management device  5  according to the present embodiment. In this case, the order information is transmitted only to the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, from the test information management device  5 . The CPU  51   a  of the test information management device  5  calculates the number of order registration in the order information database DB 3 , and determines whether or not the number of order registrations is greater than or equal to a predetermined reference value (step S 701 ). If the number of order registration is smaller than the reference value (NO in step S 701 ), the CPU  51   a  terminates the processing as it is. If the number of order registrations is greater than or equal to the reference value (YES in step S 701 ), the CPU  51   a  causes the communication interface  51   g  to transmit the activation signal for activating the sub-device (step S 702 ). 
     The processing of steps S 703  to S 708  are processing executed by the CPU  51   a  of the test information management device  5  but are similar to the processing of steps S 104  to S 109  described in the first embodiment, and hence the description thereof will be omitted. The activation check data is transmitted by the communication interface  51   g  in step S 703 , and the response data is received by the communication interface  51   g  in step S 705 . In step S 707 , the CPU  51   a  causes the communication interface  51   g  to transmit predetermined setting information. Further, in step S 708 , the sub-device activation notifying screen is displayed on the image display unit  52  of the test information management device  5 , and in step S 706 , the activation error information is displayed on the image display unit  52 . In the sub-device activation notifying screen displayed in step S 708 , the rack ID of the moving sample rack L is not displayed, and a message indicating that the activation of the sub-device is completed, and that the sample rack L holding the non-measured sample is moved to the sub-device, and the like is displayed. 
     The operation of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as the operation of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. The activation signal is received by the communication interface  41   g  in step S 201 , the activation check data is received by the communication interface  41   g  in step S 203 , the response data is transmitted by the communication interface  41   g  in step S 204 , and the setting information is received by the communication interface  41   g  in step S 205 . 
     According to the above configuration, if the number of order registrations is excessively large with respect to the processing ability of the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, that is, if a trouble in that the sample processing ability is insufficient with only the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, occurs, the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, is automatically activated, and hence the sub-device is efficiently activated and the sample processing ability of the entire sample analyzing system  200  can be rapidly increased. 
     Fourth Embodiment 
     The configuration of the sample analyzing system according to the present embodiment is similar to the configurations of the sample analyzing system  100  according to the first embodiment, and hence the same reference numerals are denoted on the same configuring elements and the description thereof will be omitted. 
     In the present embodiment, one day is divided into two periods, from 0 o&#39;clock to 12 o&#39;clock and from 12 o&#39;clock to 24 o&#39;clock, where the sample analysis is performed by the first sample analyzer  1  in one period and the sample analysis is performed by the second analyzer  2  in the other period. 
       FIG. 20  is a flowchart showing a procedure of an operation of the information processing unit  13  of the first sample analyzer  1  according to the present embodiment. When performing the sample analysis with the first sample analyzer  1 , the operator checks whether the switching time to the second sample analyzer  2  is reached, operates the input unit  133  if the switching time is reached, and gives the shutdown instruction of the first sample analyzer  1  to the information processing unit  13 . The CPU  31   a  determines whether or not the shutdown instruction is received (step S 801 ). If the shutdown instruction is not received (NO in step S 801 ), the CPU  31   a  again executes the processing of step S 301 . The CPU  31   a  waits for the instruction of shutdown by repeating the above processing. 
     If the instruction of shutdown is received (YES in step S 801 ), the CPU  31   a  displays the sub-device activation check screen for checking the activation of the sub-device on the image display unit  132  (step S 802 ).  FIG. 21  is a view showing a sub-device activation check screen. As shown in  FIG. 21 , the sub-device activation check screen D 2  includes a character string “activate sub-device?”. The sub-device activation check screen D 2  includes a button C 21  for instructing the activation of the sub-device and a button C 22  for not instructing the activation of the sub-device. The operator can select either buttons C 21  or C 22  by the clicking operation of the mouse. 
     After displaying the sub-device activation check screen D 2 , the CPU  31   a  determines whether or not the instruction to activate the sub-device is received (step S 803 ). If the operator selects the button C 22  and the CPU  31   a  does not receive the instruction to activate the sub-device (NO in step S 803 ), the CPU  31   a  terminates the processing as it is. If the operator selects the button C 21  and the CPU  31   a  receives the instruction to activate the sub-device (YES in step S 803 ), the CPU  31   a  causes the wireless communication unit  14  to transmit the activation signal for activating the sub-device (step S 804 ). 
     The processing of steps S 804  to S 810  are similar to the processing of steps S 104  to S 109  described in the first embodiment, and hence the description thereof will be omitted. 
     After displaying the sub-device activation notifying screen in step S 810 , the CPU  31   a  executes the shutdown processing of the first sample analyzer  1  (step S 811 ), and terminates the processing. 
     The operation of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the present embodiment is similar to the operation of the second sample analyzer  2  according to the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. 
     According to the above configuration, when switching from the use of the first sample analyzer  1 , which is the main device, to the use of the second sample analyzer  2 , which is the sub-device, the second sample analyzer  2  is automatically activated when the operator instructs the shutdown of the first sample analyzer  1  and instructs the activation of the second sample analyzer, and thus the second sample analyzer  2  is efficiently activated and the switching work can be efficiently carried out. 
     Other Embodiments 
     In the first embodiment described above, the configuration in which the second sample analyzer  2  is set to the sampler mode if error occurs in the first sample analyzer  1  operating in the sampler mode, and the second sample analyzer  2  is set to the manual mode if error occurs in the first sample analyzer  1  operating in the manual mode, but this is not the sole case. When error occurs in the first sample analyzer  1  operating in the sampler mode, the setting information including the setting instructing information of the manual mode may be transmitted to the second sample analyzer  2  to set the second sample analyzer  2  to the manual mode. When the first sample analyzer  1  is operating in the sampler mode, the sample is automatically aspirated from the sample container held in the sample rack L, but in this case, error occurs after the sample is aspirated and before the sample measurement is completed, and hence the sample enough to perform the sample measurement on all the items specified in the order information may not be left in the sample container T if the sample measurement is not completed. In such a case, the order information needs to be reregistered manually to perform the manual measurement, and thus the relevant sample can be efficiently measured by setting the second sample analyzer  2  to the manual mode. 
     In the first embodiment described above, whether or not to use for the activation of the second sample analyzer  2  can be set by the user for each abnormality in the second abnormality database DB 2 , but this is not the sole case. For example, the second sample analyzer  2  may be activated when the abnormality registered in the first abnormality database DB 1  occurs and the second sample analyzer  2  may not be activated when the abnormality registered in the second abnormality database DB 2  occurs, in which case the second abnormality database DB 2  cannot be setting changed by the user. 
     In the first to fourth embodiments described above, a configuration in which the first sample analyzer  1  includes one measurement unit  11  has been described, but this is not the sole case. The sample analyzer may be configured by two or more measurement units and one information processing unit. The measurement unit and the information processing unit may not be separately arranged, and a sample analyzer in which the function corresponding to the measurement unit and the function corresponding to the information processing unit are provided in one housing may be obtained. This is the same for the second sample analyzer  2 . 
     In the first to fourth embodiments described above, the configuration in which the measurement unit  11  does not include a calculation unit such as the CPU, and the like, and the operation control of the measurement unit  11  is carried out by the CPU  31   a  of the information processing unit  13  has been described, but this is not the sole case. A configuration in which the measurement unit includes a control unit including a CPU, a memory, and the like, and the operation control of the measurement mechanism is carried out by the control unit may be adopted. This is the same for the second sample analyzer  2 . 
     In the first to fourth embodiments described above, a configuration in which the second sample analyzer  2  is activated when the first sample analyzer  1  transmits the activation signal by the wireless communication unit  14 , and the activation signal is received by the wireless communication unit  24  has been described, but this is not the sole case. A configuration in which the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  can be communicated by a wired LAN, and the second sample analyzer  2  is activated when the activation signal is transmitted from the communication interface  31   g  of the first sample analyzer  1  and the activation signal is received by the communication interface  41   g  of the second sample analyzer  2  may be adopted. 
     In the first to fourth embodiments described above, the configuration in which a state where power is not supplied to the measurement unit  21 , the sample transport unit  22 , and the information processing unit  23  but a state where power is supplied to the input/output interface  41   f  and the wireless communication unit  24  is the shutdown state of the second sample analyzer  2  has been described, but this is not the sole case. A configuration in which a state where power is not supplied to the measurement unit  21  and the sample transport unit  22  but power is supplied to the information processing unit  23 , the input/output interface  41   f , and the wireless communication unit  24 , and the operating system of the information processing unit  23  is activated but the application program for controlling the second sample analyzer  2  is not activated is the shutdown state of the second sample analyzer  2  may be adopted. 
     In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example of configuring the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  by the multi-item blood cell analyzer for detecting the blood cells contained in the blood sample as white blood cells, red blood cells, blood platelets, and the like and counting each blood cell has been described, but this is not the sole case. For example, the first sample analyzer  1  and the second sample analyzer  2  may be a blood coagulation analyzer, an immune analyzer, or a biochemical analyzer. When such device includes a cooling unit for cooling the reagent and the like, the shutdown state of the second sample analyzer  2  may be a state in which power is supplied to the input/output interface  41   f , the wireless communication unit  24 , and the cooling unit of the reagent, and the temperature of the cooling unit is maintained constant. 
     In the first to fourth embodiments described above, a configuration of executing all processing of the computer program  34   a  by a single computer  13   a  has been described above, but this is not the sole case, and a distributed system in which the processing similar to the computer program  34   a  is executed in a distributed manner by a plurality of devices (computers) may be adopted. This is the same for the second sample analyzer  2  and the test information management device  5 .