Class II U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Foundation Medicine, Inc. Hamilton Microlab STAR Liquid Handler recall: Software issue that can cause an increase in spontaneous software closures

Recall published 2 months ago

Software issue that can cause an increase in spontaneous software closures.

The hazard: Device malfunction

This is a device recall, and in FDA language that usually means a correction rather than a removal: the device stays in use and the manufacturer fixes, patches or re-instructs.

What the notice says: Software issue that can cause an increase in spontaneous software closures.

Why it matters: The device may not perform as intended — a mechanical failure, a software defect, an inaccurate reading, or an alarm that does not sound. For a device someone depends on, the consequence of the failure is usually worse than the failure itself.

Symptoms and when to call a doctor

If the device supports a vital function, do not disable or remove it on your own judgement. Contact the clinician who prescribed or fitted it, and use the back-up arrangement they gave you. Go to an emergency department if the symptoms the device is meant to manage are getting worse, or if an implanted device gives an unexpected alarm or shock.

This page is general information, not medical advice. If you feel unwell, a clinician who can see you is the only person able to judge your case.

Recall details

Recall number
Z-2951-2026
Published
August 26, 2026
Risk level
Class II
Status
Ongoing
Issued by
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Brand
Foundation Medicine, Inc.
Product type
Medical devices
Units affected
32 units
Distribution
Nationwide
Made in
United States
Lot / code info
Software Version: Protocol Configuration Tool (PCT) v2.0.0; Equipment ID: 100071, 100213, 100355, 102281, 103047, 104154, 104201, 104202, 104204, 104205, 104224, 104503, 104504, 104562, 104885, 105961, 106497, 00016, 00487, 00488, 00489, 00490, 00817, 00491, 00492, 00854, 01173, 01174, 01785, 01337, 01596, 01993.

Products covered by this recall

Hamilton Microlab STAR Liquid Handler; Protocol Configuration Tool (PCT) v2.0.0. Used to conduct F1CDx and F1LCDx.

What to do about Malfunction

Foundation Medicine, Inc. — This is a device recall, and in FDA language that usually means a correction rather than a removal: the device stays in use and the manufacturer fixes, patches or re-instructs.

  1. Match the model, catalogue, lot and serial numbers on your device against the identifiers listed on this page.
  2. Check whether the remedy is a software update, and if so confirm afterwards in the device menu that the version actually changed.
  3. If you are a clinic or facility, quarantine affected stock and record the correction in your recall log.
  4. Report device problems to the FDA through MedWatch — that database is where this recall came from.

Replacements, repairs and reimbursement

Device remedies run through the supply chain, so the route depends on who sold you the unit.

  • Contact the distributor or clinic named on your paperwork and quote the recall number on this page. They will tell you whether the remedy is a repair, a replacement or an instruction update.
  • If the device was billed to insurance or Medicare, the replacement is usually billed the same way; you should not face a second deductible for a recall.
  • Keep every piece of correspondence. If a recalled device caused harm, that paper trail is what a claim rests on.
  • Consumer-purchased devices such as monitors and test kits are normally replaced free, with return shipping paid.

Company contact: Foundation Medicine, Inc. — 150 2nd St, Cambridge, MA, 02141-2115

The official notice

This page summarises a notice published by U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The agency notice is the authoritative version — read it before you act, and treat it as the final word if anything here looks different.

Open the FDA — Device enforcement record U.S. Food and Drug Administration recalls

Questions people ask about this recall

Why was Foundation Medicine, Inc. medical devices recalled?

Software issue that can cause an increase in spontaneous software closures. Software issue that can cause an increase in spontaneous software closures.

How do I know if I have the recalled product?

The notice does not publish package codes for this recall. Compare the product name, size and the purchase window against the official FDA — Device enforcement record, and contact the company if you are unsure.

What should I do with it right now?

Match the model, catalogue, lot and serial numbers on your device against the identifiers listed on this page.

Can I get my money back?

Contact the distributor or clinic named on your paperwork and quote the recall number on this page. They will tell you whether the remedy is a repair, a replacement or an instruction update.

Where was the recalled product sold?

It was distributed nationwide.

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