FocusPC

UT and Phased Array Data Acquisition and

Analysis Software
User’s Manual
Software Version 1.0

DMTA-20092-01EN — Rev. D
February 2017

This instruction manual contains essential information on how to use this Olympus product safely and effectively.
Before using this product, thoroughly review this instruction manual. Use the product as instructed.
Keep this instruction manual in a safe, accessible location.
Olympus Scientific Solutions Americas, 48 Woerd Avenue, Waltham, MA 02453, USA

Copyright © 2015, 2016, 2017 by Olympus. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced, translated, or distributed without the express written permission of
Olympus.

This document was prepared with particular attention to usage to ensure the accuracy of the
information contained therein, and corresponds to the version of the product manufactured
prior to the date appearing on the title page. There could, however, be some differences
between the manual and the product if the product was modified thereafter.

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.

Software version 1.0

Part number: DMTA-20092-01EN
Rev. D
February 2017

Printed in Canada

All brands are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners and third
party entities.
 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Table of Contents

List of Abbreviations ...................................................................................... vii

Important Information — Please Read Before Use ..................................... 1

Intended Use .......................................................................................................................... 1
Instruction Manual ................................................................................................................ 1
Software Compatibility ......................................................................................................... 1
Safety Symbols ....................................................................................................................... 1
Safety Signal Words ............................................................................................................... 2
Note Signal Words ................................................................................................................. 3
Warranty Information ........................................................................................................... 3
Technical Support .................................................................................................................. 4

Introduction ........................................................................................................ 5
Using FocusPC with the FOCUS PX ................................................................................... 6
Building Automated Inspection Systems with the FocusPC SDK ................................. 7
FocusControl SDK ................................................................................................................. 9
FocusData SDK .................................................................................................................... 10

1. Getting Started ........................................................................................... 13

1.1 Minimum Computer Requirements ....................................................................... 13
1.2 Compatible Data Acquisition Instruments ........................................................... 14
1.3 FocusPC Editions ...................................................................................................... 15
1.4 Security Hardware Key ............................................................................................ 16
1.5 Installing FocusPC .................................................................................................... 17
1.6 Connecting a FOCUS PX to a Computer ............................................................... 19
1.7 Using the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool ............................................................. 19
1.8 Connecting Multiple FOCUS PX Instruments to a Computer ........................... 27
1.9 Starting FocusPC ....................................................................................................... 27

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

2. User Interface .............................................................................................. 31

2.1 FocusPC User Interface and Software Principles ................................................. 31
2.2 Component Toolbars ................................................................................................ 34
2.3 Dashboard Dialog Box ............................................................................................. 37
2.4 Document Windows ................................................................................................. 38
2.5 Layouts ....................................................................................................................... 39
2.6 UT Settings Dialog Box ............................................................................................ 40
2.7 Scan and Mechanical Settings Dialog Box ............................................................. 41
2.8 View Properties Dialog Box ..................................................................................... 41
2.9 Docking Dialog Boxes .............................................................................................. 42

3. Concepts and Operational Mode ............................................................ 45

3.1 FocusPC Modes ......................................................................................................... 46
3.2 Groups ........................................................................................................................ 47
3.3 Calculator ................................................................................................................... 49
3.4 Scans ............................................................................................................................ 49
3.5 Probe Orientation Conventions .............................................................................. 51
3.6 Layouts ....................................................................................................................... 57
3.7 Views ........................................................................................................................... 58
3.7.1 Data View Types ............................................................................................. 60
3.7.1.1 Basic Views ........................................................................................... 61
3.7.1.2 Volumetric Views ................................................................................ 64
3.7.1.3 Scrolling Views .................................................................................... 69
3.7.2 View Shortcut Menu ...................................................................................... 71
3.8 Readings and Information Groups ......................................................................... 76
3.9 Gates ............................................................................................................................ 77
3.10 Expert Mode .............................................................................................................. 79
3.11 File Formats ............................................................................................................... 80

4. Setup Creation ............................................................................................ 83

4.1 Working with Setup Files ......................................................................................... 83
4.1.1 Loading an .fps Setup File ............................................................................. 83
4.1.2 Saving an .fps Setup File ............................................................................... 84
4.1.3 Default Setup Files ......................................................................................... 85
4.2 Working with Groups ............................................................................................... 85
4.2.1 Adding and Configuring a Phased Array Group ..................................... 86
4.2.2 Adding and Configuring a Conventional UT Group ............................... 94
4.2.3 Adding and Configuring a TOFD Group ................................................... 97
4.2.4 Switching between Groups ........................................................................... 98
4.2.5 Renaming Groups .......................................................................................... 99
4.2.6 Deleting Groups ............................................................................................. 99

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4.3 Calibrating a Phased Array Group ...................................................................... 100

4.3.1 Calibrating the Beam Delays ...................................................................... 100
4.3.2 Calibrating the Sensitivity .......................................................................... 103
4.4 Calibrating a Conventional UT Group ................................................................ 105
4.5 Calibrating a TOFD Group in Setup Mode ......................................................... 107
4.6 Working with Overlay Drawings ......................................................................... 108
4.7 Working with the TCG Curve ............................................................................... 110
4.7.1 Constructing a TCG Curve for a Conventional UT Group .................... 110
4.7.2 Displaying or Hiding the TCG Curve ....................................................... 113
4.7.3 Constructing a TCG Curve for a Phased Array Group .......................... 114
4.7.4 Importing/Exporting a TCG Curve ........................................................... 116
4.8 Working with Layouts ............................................................................................ 117
4.8.1 Applying a Template Layout File .............................................................. 117
4.8.2 Displaying or Changing the View in a Pane ............................................ 118
4.8.3 Saving Layout Files and Defining New Template Layouts ................... 119
4.9 Working with the Readings ................................................................................... 120
4.9.1 Reading Management ................................................................................. 120
4.9.2 Reading Examples ........................................................................................ 122
4.9.3 Hiding or Showing Readings at the Top of a View ................................. 124
4.10 Working with Gates ................................................................................................ 124
4.10.1 Gate Adjustments ......................................................................................... 125
4.10.2 Gate Synchronization .................................................................................. 125
4.10.3 Gates in Analysis Mode .............................................................................. 126
4.10.4 Gates and Amplitude C-Scans ................................................................... 127
4.10.5 Gate Usage Example .................................................................................... 128
4.11 Working with the Alarms ...................................................................................... 129
4.12 Working with the Firing Sequencer ..................................................................... 129
4.13 Working with the Conditional A-Scan ................................................................ 132

5. Performing Acquisitions ........................................................................ 135

5.1 Working with the Different Scan Types ............................................................... 135
5.1.1 One-Line Scan ............................................................................................... 135
5.1.2 Free Running Scan ....................................................................................... 137
5.1.3 Bidirectional Scan ......................................................................................... 137
5.1.4 Unidirectional Scan ...................................................................................... 140
5.1.5 Helicoidal Scan ............................................................................................. 142
5.1.6 Angular Scan ................................................................................................ 144
5.1.7 Custom Scan ................................................................................................. 147
5.2 Working with Encoders ......................................................................................... 147
5.2.1 Encoder Types .............................................................................................. 147
5.2.2 Calibrating an Encoder ............................................................................... 150
5.3 Defining the Automatic Savings Options ........................................................... 151

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6. Basic Analysis Using FocusPC .............................................................. 153

6.1 Opening Data Files in FocusPC ............................................................................ 153
6.2 Working with the Indication Table and Report Component ............................ 155
6.2.1 Adding an Indication to the Indication Table .......................................... 156
6.2.2 Producing an Ultrasonic Inspection Report ............................................. 159
6.2.3 Changing the Logo in the Inspection Report ........................................... 161

List of Figures ................................................................................................. 163

List of Tables ................................................................................................... 167

Index ................................................................................................................. 169

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List of Abbreviations

FFT fast Fourier transform

MFC Microsoft Foundation Class
ML material loss
SDK software development kit
TCG time-corrected gain
USB universal serial bus

List of Abbreviations vii

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viii List of Abbreviations

 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Important Information — Please Read Before Use

Intended Use

FocusPC is a software program designed for FOCUS PX instruments used in

nondestructive inspections on industrial and commercial materials.

Instruction Manual

This instruction manual contains essential information on how to use this Olympus
product safely and effectively. Before using this product, thoroughly review this
instruction manual. Use the product as instructed.

Keep this instruction manual in a safe, accessible location.

Software Compatibility

FocusPC is only compatible with FOCUS PX instruments. For a list of models, see
Table 1 on page 14.

Safety Symbols

The following safety symbols might appear on the instrument and in the instruction
manual:

Important Information — Please Read Before Use 1

DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

General warning symbol

This symbol is used to alert the user to potential hazards. All safety messages that
follow this symbol shall be obeyed to avoid possible harm or material damage.

Shock hazard caution symbol

This symbol is used to alert the user to potential electric shock hazards. All safety
messages that follow this symbol shall be obeyed to avoid possible harm.

Safety Signal Words

The following safety symbols might appear in the documentation of the instrument:

DANGER

The DANGER signal word indicates an imminently hazardous situation. It calls

attention to a procedure, practice, or the like that if not correctly performed or
adhered to will result in death or serious personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a
DANGER signal word until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

WARNING

The WARNING signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation. It calls

attention to a procedure, practice, or the like that if not correctly performed or
adhered to could result in death or serious personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a
WARNING signal word until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

CAUTION

The CAUTION signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation. It calls

attention to a procedure, practice, or the like that if not correctly performed or
adhered to may result in minor or moderate personal injury, material damage,
particularly to the product, destruction of part or all of the product, or loss of data. Do
not proceed beyond a CAUTION signal word until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.

2 Important Information — Please Read Before Use

 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Note Signal Words

The following note signal words could appear in the documentation of the
instrument:

IMPORTANT

The IMPORTANT signal word calls attention to a note that provides important
information, or information essential to the completion of a task.

NOTE

The NOTE signal word calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like,
which requires special attention. A note also denotes related parenthetical
information that is useful, but not imperative.

TIP

The TIP signal word calls attention to a type of note that helps you apply the
techniques and procedures described in the manual to your specific needs, or
provides hints on how to effectively use the capabilities of the product.

Warranty Information

Olympus guarantees your Olympus product to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a specific period, and in accordance with conditions specified in the
Olympus Scientific Solutions Americas Inc. Terms and Conditions available at
http://www.olympus-ims.com/en/terms/.

The Olympus warranty only covers equipment that has been used in a proper
manner, as described in this instruction manual, and that has not been subjected to
excessive abuse, attempted unauthorized repair, or modification.

Inspect materials thoroughly on receipt for evidence of external or internal damage

that might have occurred during shipment. Immediately notify the carrier making the
delivery of any damage, because the carrier is normally liable for damage during
shipment. Retain packing materials, waybills, and other shipping documentation
needed in order to file a damage claim. After notifying the carrier, contact Olympus
for assistance with the damage claim and equipment replacement, if necessary.

Important Information — Please Read Before Use 3

DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

This instruction manual explains the proper operation of your Olympus product. The
information contained herein is intended solely as a teaching aid, and shall not be
used in any particular application without independent testing and/or verification by
the operator or the supervisor. Such independent verification of procedures becomes
increasingly important as the criticality of the application increases. For this reason,
Olympus makes no warranty, expressed or implied, that the techniques, examples, or
procedures described herein are consistent with industry standards, nor that they
meet the requirements of any particular application.

Olympus reserves the right to modify any product without incurring the
responsibility for modifying previously manufactured products.

Technical Support

Olympus is firmly committed to providing the highest level of customer service and
product support. If you experience any difficulties when using our product, or if it
fails to operate as described in the documentation, first consult the user’s manual, and
then, if you are still in need of assistance, contact our After-Sales Service. To locate the
nearest service center, visit the Service Centers page at: http://www.olympus-
ims.com.

4 Important Information — Please Read Before Use

 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Introduction

FocusPC is a powerful and versatile ultrasonic and phased array software designed to
be the centerpiece of automated inspection systems (see Figure i-1 on page 5). Its
flexibility and high-end features enable you to perform inspections that meet the most
stringent inspection criteria and ever increasing industry requirements.

Figure i‑1 Example of a fully automated inspection system1

1. Photo courtesy of SCLEAD.

Introduction 5
DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

FocusPC is a flexible software designed to perform fast and precise inspections on

simple or complex-shaped parts. In order to achieve this, FocusPC can drive one or
many FOCUS PX acquisition instruments.

FocusPC offers a flexible graphical user interface allowing you to customize, save, and
retrieve layouts containing various views. This manual provides instruction on how
to use FocusPC to its full advantage to facilitate your UT inspections.

Using FocusPC with the FOCUS PX

To build systems that reach optimal inspection speeds and detectability, FocusPC is
best used with the FOCUS PX (see Figure i-2 on page 6). The FOCUS PX is a high
speed acquisition instrument that can be used to drive multiple phased array and
conventional UT probes; its features are fully exploited within the FocusPC software.

FocusPC FOCUS PX Phased array probes

Figure i‑2 FocusPC / FOCUS PX system example

Scalability is also a major asset, allowing the adjustment of the number of FOCUS PX
instruments used for a system in order to reach the expected system performances
(see Figure i-3 on page 7).

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 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

FocusPC FOCUS PX Phased array probes

Figure i‑3 FocusPC / FOCUS PX system diagram

Building Automated Inspection Systems with the FocusPC SDK

To allow the automation of systems built with FocusPC, two software development
kits (SDK) were developed by Olympus. These SDKs allow you to customize
inspection systems and upgrade from operator-driven to fully automated systems:

• FocusControl is an SDK that includes program samples and the full source code.
It allows you to create custom programs that you can use to control FocusPC, or
create user interfaces that are dedicated to specific applications (see Figure i-4 on
page 8). For more details, see “FocusControl SDK” on page 9.

Introduction 7
DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

FocusPC + Custom automation program

FOCUS PX (using FocusControl)

Figure i‑4 An example of a system using FocusControl to enable automation

• FocusData is another SDK, which also includes program samples and the full
source code. FocusData lets you create custom programs that you can use to
extract raw inspection data for custom data processing and presentation (see
Figure i-5 on page 8). For more details, see “FocusData SDK” on page 10.

FocusPC data file

Custom data program (using FocusData)

Figure i‑5 An example of a custom data presentation using FocusData

8 Introduction
 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

FocusControl SDK

Phased array inspection systems are often automated to reduce cycle time and
improve system performance. In order to achieve this, custom programs can be built
to communicate with FocusPC and control the inspection process.

The FocusControl SDK establishes the link between FocusPC and custom programs,
giving a direct control of the inspection process. It also allows the creation of user-
defined interfaces that can be built to make the system more convenient to use and
optimize the inspection workflow.

FocusControl is compatible with the C++, C#, VB, MATLAB, and LabView
programming languages and comes with fully developed sample programs provided
with the complete source code (see Figure i-6 on page 10).

NOTE
Refer to the FocusControl User’s Manual for a complete description.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure i‑6 A sample program provided with FocusControl

FocusData SDK

FocusData enables exporting of raw A-scan and C-scan data from FocusPC data files
to Microsoft Excel, MATLAB, or any other external program. The exported data can
then be used to perform processing algorithms and create customized data
representations (see Figure i-7 on page 11).

FocusData is compatible with the C++, C#, VB, MATLAB, and LabView programming
languages and comes with fully developed sample programs provided with the
complete source code (refer to the FocusData User’s Manual for a complete
description).

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 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure i‑7 A sample program provided with FocusData

Introduction 11
DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

12 Introduction
 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

1. Getting Started

This chapter contains information that enables you to quickly begin using FocusPC.

1.1 Minimum Computer Requirements

The minimum computer requirements for FocusPC software are as follows:

• CPU: Intel Core i7 or Xeon E3

• RAM memory: 16 GB (DDR3 or better)
• Data storage drive: SSD
• Network adaptor: Gigabit Ethernet card — dedicated to the acquisition
instrument (for acquisition). The computer needs a second network adaptor if you
want to simultaneously connect it to a local area network and to a data acquisition
instrument.
• 1280 × 1024 or higher display adaptor and monitor resolution
• One USB port for the HASP security hardware key
• A keyboard and a pointing device
• One of the following operating systems:
— Microsoft Windows 8
— Microsoft Windows 7

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

IMPORTANT
You can install FocusPC on a drive other than the drive used for Windows. In that
case, the FocusPC installer still requires 150 MB of the drive where Windows resides,
to install the hardware security key driver, the Direct X updates, the Windows
temporary installation, and the MFC (Microsoft Foundation Class) files.

NOTE

In this document, FocusPC screen captures were taken on a computer running

Windows 7. The look of the screen captures could differ if you are using FocusPC on a
computer running another operating system.

For most examples presented in this document, FocusPC was arbitrarily configured to
use the metric measurement units (refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual to
find how to change measurement units).

1.2 Compatible Data Acquisition Instruments

FocusPC operates with Olympus ultrasonic instruments to acquire data in Inspection

mode and to analyze data files created with these instruments. Table 1 on page 14
provides the list of the compatible instruments.

Table 1 Olympus data acquisition instruments compatible with FocusPC

Family Models

FOCUS PX FPX-UT4 [Q7750033]— 4-channel conventional UT

FPX-1664PR [Q7750034] — 16:64 pulser receiver (PR)

phased array

FPX-16128PR [Q7750035] — 16:128 pulser receiver (PR)

phased array

FPX-32128PR [Q7750036] — 32:128 pulser receiver (PR)

phased array

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1.3 FocusPC Editions

FocusPC is available in three editions:

Inspection
A full-featured mode providing all the inspection and analysis functions. With
the FocusPC Inspection edition license, you can also choose to start the other
FocusPC editions (see “Starting FocusPC” on page 27 for details).
Analysis
Provides all analysis functions but no inspection functions.
FocusPC Viewer
A free viewer that allows you to visualize FocusPC data files.
When you start up the software, you need to select which FocusPC edition you want
to run (see Figure 1-1 on page 15).

Figure 1‑1 The Startup Selection dialog box

The About FocusPC dialog box, accessed by selecting Help > About, reports which
edition of FocusPC is currently running (see Figure 1-2 on page 16).

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Edition currently
running

Figure 1‑2 The About FocusPC dialog box indicating the FocusPC edition

1.4 Security Hardware Key

To operate, FocusPC needs to detect a HASP security hardware key connected to the
computer. The HASP security USB hardware key supplied with your FocusPC copy
contains the authorization code needed to operate the FocusPC edition that you
purchased.

Before starting FocusPC, connect the HASP hardware key (see Figure 1-3 on page 16)
to the USB port of your computer.

Figure 1‑3 The HASP security hardware key

When you start FocusPC with no security hardware key connected to the computer,
FocusPC Viewer is the only enabled edition in the Startup Selection dialog box (see
Figure 1-4 on page 17).

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Figure 1‑4 The Startup Selection dialog box with no security hardware key

If you disconnect the security hardware key while FocusPC is running, the message
shown in Figure 1-5 on page 17 appears 30 seconds later. After clicking OK, when
needed, FocusPC proposes to save unsaved data, and then closes.

Figure 1‑5 Missing hardware key message box

When you purchase both the Inspection and Analysis editions of FocusPC, two
security hardware keys are delivered, one for each edition.

1.5 Installing FocusPC

The installation of FocusPC is simple.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

To install FocusPC
1. On the computer on which you want to install FocusPC, log on with a user
account that has administrator rights.
2. Run the FocusPC installer program from the Olympus distribution disk.
3. Follow the on-screen FocusPC installer wizard steps.
The wizard installs FocusPC, the Calculator, and the FOCUS PX Configuration
Tool.
4. You need to disable the sleep mode on the computer to prevent a connection loss
with the data acquisition instrument:
a) For Windows 8, on the taskbar, click Search, type Power Options, select
Power Options, and then click Change Plan Settings.
OR
For Windows 7, on the Windows taskbar, select Start > Control Panel >
Hardware and Sound > Power Options, and then click Change Plan
Settings.
b) In the dialog box that appears, set both Turn off the display and Put the
computer to sleep to Never (see Figure 1-6 on page 18).
c) Click Save Changes.

Figure 1‑6 Configuring power options for Windows 7 and 8

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NOTE
The FocusPC installer configures the Windows firewall to allow communication
between the acquisition instrument and the FocusPC and FOCUS PX Configuration
Tool programs. If you use a third-party firewall on the computer running FocusPC,
refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual for configuration information.

1.6 Connecting a FOCUS PX to a Computer

Perform the following procedure to connect a FOCUS PX to a computer.

To connect a FOCUS PX to a computer

1. Install FocusPC on the computer (see “Installing FocusPC” on page 17).
2. Using a category 5e Ethernet crossover cable, connect the FOCUS PX Ethernet
connector to the network card of the inspection computer.
3. Use the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool to configure the FOCUS PX connection
(see “Using the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool” on page 19).
4. Turn on the FOCUS PX.

1.7 Using the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool

The FOCUS PX Configuration Tool is included with FocusPC and is used to configure
the connection of your FOCUS PX acquisition instrument(s) and the network card.

To configure the FOCUS PX connection

1. Double-click the desktop icon ( ) to launch the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool.

2. In the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool dialog box, type the serial number of each
FOCUS PX instrument that is connected to your Ethernet card (see Figure 1-7 on
page 20).
The serial number is located on the back of the FOCUS PX.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure 1‑7 The FOCUS PX Configuration Tool

3. Click Apply.

To select the Jumbo Packet setting

1. Open the list of network connections in your Control Panel, and identify the
connection used to connect to the FOCUS PX (see Figure 1-8 on page 21).

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Figure 1‑8 The network connections

2. Right-click the network connection used to connect to the FOCUS PX, and then
click Properties (see Figure 1-9 on page 21).

Figure 1‑9 Selecting Properties

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

3. In the Networking tab, click Configure (see Figure 1-10 on page 22).

Figure 1‑10 Selecting Configure

4. In the Advanced tab, in the Property list, select either Jumbo Packet or Jumbo
Frame (see Figure 1-11 on page 23).
5. In the Value list, select the higher value.

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Figure 1‑11 The settings in the Advanced tab

To configure the network card

1. In Windows, click the Start button, and then select All Programs > Accessories.
2. Right-click Command Prompt, and then select Run as administrator on the
shortcut menu (Figure 1-12 on page 24).

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure 1‑12 Running Command Prompt in the administrator role

3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands (see Figure 1-13
on page 25), pressing ENTER after each line:
netsh int tcp set global chimney=enabled
netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled
netsh int tcp set global congestionprovider=ctcp
netsh int tcp set heuristics disable

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Figure 1‑13 Entering commands in the Command Prompt window

4. Restart your computer.

5. When your computer has rebooted, double-click the desktop icon ( ) to launch
the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool.
6. In the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool dialog box, click Configure Network Card.
7. In the Network Configuration dialog box, select the network card that will be
used to communicate with the FOCUS PX, and then click Configure (see
Figure 1-14 on page 25).

Figure 1‑14 The Network configuration dialog box

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

If the network connection is already being used for another device, a message
appears to inform you that an alternative IP address will be assigned (see
Figure 1-15 on page 26).

Figure 1‑15 The IP Address conflict dialog box

To troubleshoot the connection

 Click Troubleshooting to view a list of possible causes of connection problems,
and follow the instructions provided (see Figure 1-16 on page 26).

Figure 1‑16 An example Troubleshooting dialog box

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1.8 Connecting Multiple FOCUS PX Instruments to a Computer

Perform the following procedure to connect multiple FOCUS PX instruments to a

computer.

To connect multiple FOCUS PX instruments to a computer

1. Install FocusPC on the computer.
2. Using category 5e Ethernet crossover cables, connect the Ethernet connector of
each FOCUS PX to one of the inspection computer’s network cards.
OR
Using category 5e Ethernet crossover cables, connect each FOCUS PX Ethernet
connector to an Ethernet hub, and then connect the hub to the inspection
computer.
3. Use the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool to configure the FOCUS PX connections
(see “Using the FOCUS PX Configuration Tool” on page 19).
4. Turn on each FOCUS PX instrument.

1.9 Starting FocusPC

FocusPC operates with or without a FOCUS PX. When you use FocusPC without an
acquisition instrument, you can only perform analysis tasks on previously saved data
files.

To start FocusPC
1. Connect the security hardware key to the appropriate port of the computer.
FocusPC needs to detect the security hardware key to operate, regardless of
whether or not it is connected to an acquisition instrument.

2. Turn on the computer and wait for Windows to complete its starting process. Do
not start FocusPC yet.
3. Connect the data acquisition instrument to the appropriate network adaptor of
the computer, and then start it (see “Connecting a FOCUS PX to a Computer” on
page 19 for a FOCUS PX).
4. Start FocusPC as follows:

 Double-click the FocusPC icon on the Windows desktop.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

OR
Click Start > All Programs > Olympus NDT > FocusPC n.nn on the Windows
taskbar.
5. In the Startup Selection dialog box that appears (see Figure 1-17 on page 28),
click the button associated with the desired FocusPC edition.

Figure 1‑17 The Startup Selection dialog box

TIP

If you do not want the Startup Selection dialog box to appear each time you start
FocusPC, select the Do not show next time check box.

To reactivate the Startup Selection dialog box, select File > Preferences > General
Settings tab in FocusPC, and then clear the Startup Selection check box under Dialog
Bypass.

The FocusPC splash screen briefly appears, indicating that the application is
starting up.
6. When you start the Inspection edition, the Select Device Configuration dialog
box appears (see Figure 1-18 on page 29). In the dialog box, do one of the
following:
 Select the acquisition instrument or instruments that you want to include in
your configuration, and then click OK.

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NOTE
With its multipod capability, FocusPC can acquire data from up to four FOCUS PX
instruments in parallel (up to four active instruments, with an additional [fifth]
passive instrument), offering up to a fourfold increase in acquisition speed.

OR
When your computer is not connected to an acquisition instrument, click
Work Offline to use FocusPC only in Analysis mode. In this case, Setup mode
and Inspection mode will be unavailable.

Figure 1‑18 Example of the Select Device Configuration dialog box

NOTE
The list in the Select Device Configuration dialog box is empty when FocusPC fails
to detect any hardware devices either because supported acquisition instruments are
not connected, are not turned on, or are not correctly installed. Refer to the FocusPC
Advanced User’s Manual for troubleshooting information.

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7. In the Configuration Selection dialog box that appears (see Figure 1-19 on
page 30), select one of the following setup loading options, and then click OK.
Open the last configuration
Select this option to load the last configuration used, whose name is indicated
in the box below. By default, the box indicates the name of the default
configuration (Default_PA.fps, Default_UT.fps, and more).
Open an existing configuration
Select this option to access the Open dialog box. You can use this dialog box
to browse through the folders and choose a configuration file (with the file
name extension .fps).
Create a new configuration
Select this option to start a new configuration from a default configuration.

Figure 1‑19 The Configuration Selection dialog box

NOTE
A configuration file (.fps) is a complete description of the FocusPC workspace. The
file includes the acquisition instrument hardware setup and the FocusPC layout
environment.

If you click Cancel, the default configuration loads (Default_PA.fps for a phased
array instrument or Default_UT.fps for a UT conventional instrument).
After the selected setup is loaded, the FocusPC window appears.

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2. User Interface

This chapter details FocusPC user interface elements.

2.1 FocusPC User Interface and Software Principles

FocusPC provides features needed to perform nondestructive inspections based on

ultrasonic technology. It combines setup, inspection, and analysis functions in one
software package. FocusPC can also be used in a stand-alone mode to analyze
previously acquired data.

The FocusPC user interface (see Figure 2-1 on page 32) provides toolbars and menus
for quick access to main commands. Using FocusPC, you can conveniently present
data imaging in multiple simultaneous views, such as in the example in Figure 2-1 on
page 32.

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Dashboard Menu bar Toolbar Data views Status bar

Figure 2‑1 FocusPC user interface example

Data views
A data view is a visual representation of an inspection. You can create several types of
views and display them simultaneously to visualize different aspects of your
inspection.

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Splitting data views

You can subdivide a data view into multiple sections. The split sections have the
advantage of being easily resized while maintaining the “tiled” nature of the various
views.

The data views can be user defined to contain any of the possible view types
generated by FocusPC. For further information concerning the different types of
views, see “Data View Types” on page 60.

In FocusPC, the data views also offer flexibility for the location of readings: cursor
positions, statistics, scale settings, etc. These fields can be dynamically placed and
customized within any view. For further information concerning the readings, see
“Working with the Readings” on page 120.

Layout
A layout is a complete set of display-related settings. You can save and load a layout
to quickly return to a desired view configuration. Layout configurations are included
in data files so that recorded data can be viewed through the original layouts that
existed at data-recording time, or through the current system layouts.

Template layouts are also provided as a reference for the most common inspection
types. A menu on the Dashboard provides quick access to existing template layouts
installed in FocusPC (see “Working with Layouts” on page 117 for more information
on using layouts).

Setup
A setup file is a complete set of FocusPC settings that an operator can access while
using the FocusPC interface. Setup files may contain one or more layouts, and they
can be saved and restored on demand.

Normally, a setup represents a procedure for a specific application that is to be

performed with the equipment.

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2.2 Component Toolbars

The FocusPC toolbars at the top of the main window contain buttons to initiate
commands or to access dialog boxes. See Figure 2-2 on page 34 and Table 2 on page 34
for descriptions of the components available in the toolbars. In the menu under
Toolbars, you can show or hide the Advanced Weld and Advanced Aero toolbars by
selecting or deselecting them in the menu.

Advanced Weld toolbar Main toolbar

Advanced Aero toolbar

Figure 2‑2 The component toolbars

Table 2 The toolbar buttons

Icon Component Description

Main toolbar buttons

Dashboard Opens and closes the Dashboard pane, which is

used to manage groups and inspection sequences

UT settings Opens the UT Settings dialog box, which contains

the ultrasonic setup parameters

Part and material Opens the Part Definition dialog box, in which
you define the geometry of flat or cylindrical parts

Scan settings Opens the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog

box, which is used to define the scan and settings
for the mechanical scanning system

Split view vertically Divides the active view into two views with the
same vertical dimension

Split view Divides the active view into two views with the
horizontally same horizontal dimension

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Table 2 The toolbar buttons (continued)

Icon Component Description

Split view in four Divides the active view into four views with the
same horizontal and vertical dimensions

Add view content Opens the Contents dialog box, used to select the
data view types to be displayed in the active pane

Delete view Deletes the active view

View properties Opens the View Properties dialog box, used to

configure the parameters of the active view

Readings 1 Toggles the display of information group 1 in the

active view (by default, readings related to
reference cursors)

Readings 2 Toggles the display of information group 2 in the

active view (by default, readings related to
measurement cursors)

Readings 3 Toggles the display of information group 3 in the

active view (by default, readings related to
reference and measurement cursors)

Readings 4 Toggles the display of information group 4 in the

active view (by default, readings related to the
Zone tool)

PA calibration Calibrates all phased array beams

Signal envelope Toggles the activation of the Envelope mode for

the A-scan view

Firing sequencer Modifies the order in which the ultrasonic beams

are fired

Zoom tool Select and zoom in a specific region on a view

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Table 2 The toolbar buttons (continued)

Icon Component Description

Zone tool Select a region on a top, side, end, or C-scan view

by clicking and dragging
Tip: When the Zone tool is not selected, press and
hold the CTRL key, and then click and drag on a
view to perform the same task.

C-scan merge Opens the C‑Scan Merge dialog box, used to

perform a C-scan merge of recorded data in
Analysis mode

Thickness C-scan Opens the Create Thickness C‑Scan dialog box,

which can be used to create thickness C-scan data
by performing subtractions on data originating
from two gates

Soft gain tool Opens the Gain Information dialog box, used to
set the software gain and dynamically change
color palette maximum and minimum values

Indication table Opens the Indication Table dialog box, used to

manage indication information and create reports

Fast Fourier Opens the Fast Fourier Transforms dialog box,

transform used to calculate values related to the fast Fourier
transform (FFT)

Advanced Weld toolbar buttons

Edit weld Opens the Edit Overlays dialog box, in which you
can rename, relocate, or delete a component

Add weld Opens the Predefined Weld dialog box, in which

you select a weld type and define its geometry

Automatic Performs a volumetric merge of all focal laws for

volumetric merge all groups using the default parameters

Automatic Performs a volumetric merge of all focal laws for

volumetric merge by each corresponding group using the default
group parameters

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Table 2 The toolbar buttons (continued)

Icon Component Description

Volumetric merge Opens the Volumetric Merge dialog box, used to

perform a volumetric merge of recorded data in
Analysis mode

TOFD Manager Opens the TOFD Manager dialog box, used to

analyze time-of-flight diffraction inspection data

Advanced Aero toolbar button

SNR analysis Opens the SNR Analysis Utility dialog box, used
to compute the signal-to-noise ratio

2.3 Dashboard Dialog Box

The Dashboard is where you pilot the operations in FocusPC. The Dashboard
contains the mode, group, scan, and layout parameters that you need to define before
performing an inspection (see Figure 2-3 on page 38).

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Mode button (See “FocusPC Modes” on

page 46.)

Acquisition speed
Calculator
To define probe, wedge, part, and
calculate beams
Add a new group Delete the currently selected group

Set signal to reference

Set start and range

Predefined layouts

Figure 2‑3 Components of the Dashboard dialog box

2.4 Document Windows

FocusPC allows you to open one or more document windows at a time: a separate
window for each file that is opened. However, only one setup can be open at a time.
You can display one or more data views at a time in each window (see Figure 2-4 on
page 39).

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Title bar
Shows name of data
file and layout

Views
Data presented in one
of the view types

View border
Click and drag to
resize the view.

Figure 2‑4 Example of a document window containing three views

You can cascade or manually tile multiple windows. You also can add, remove, or
empty views in a window, using the toolbar. Two or more views appear side by side,
never overlapping. You activate any view by clicking on it.

2.5 Layouts

In FocusPC, a layout is an organization of two or more views appearing in the

window. Layouts offer extensive flexibility in how you present your inspection data.

FocusPC offers a set of ten layouts that are available on the Dashboard for quick
selection (see Figure 2-5 on page 40). You can also select one of the layouts on the
Layout menu. A set of ten layouts is saved in an .rst file.

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Currently selected layout

Set of ten available layouts

Figure 2‑5 The set of ten layouts

2.6 UT Settings Dialog Box

You can click the UT Settings button ( ) on the component toolbar to toggle the
visibility of the UT Settings dialog box. The UT Settings dialog box contains eight
basic tabs: General, Gate, TCG, Digitizer, Pulser/Receiver, Position, Alarms,
Transmitter, and Receiver (see Figure 2-6 on page 40). For more details on the
different tabs of the UT Settings dialog box, refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s
Manual.

Figure 2‑6 The UT Settings dialog box

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2.7 Scan and Mechanical Settings Dialog Box

Clicking the Scan Settings button ( ) on the component toolbar toggles the
visibility of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box, which contains four basic
tabs: Scan, I/O, Encoders, and Data (see Figure 2-7 on page 41). For more details on
the different tabs of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box, refer to the
FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual.

Figure 2‑7 The Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box

2.8 View Properties Dialog Box

Clicking the View Properties button ( ) on the component toolbar toggles the
visibility of the View Properties dialog box. The Information, Display, Palette, Data
Source, and Units tabs are available in the View Properties dialog box, depending on
the data type contained in the active view. For more details on the different tabs of the
View Properties dialog box, refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual.

Figure 2‑8 The View Properties dialog box

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2.9 Docking Dialog Boxes

FocusPC allows you to dock the main dialog boxes on a window border. A docking
dialog box aligns itself with an edge of the window. By dragging its title bar, you can
move the docking dialog box anywhere on the screen as a floating dialog box.
Inversely, you can drag and dock the floating dialog box to one of the window edges
(see Figure 2-9 on page 42).

Double-click the title

bar to dock the dialog
box

Click to float the dialog

box

Figure 2‑9 Floating (top) and docking (bottom) of a dialog box

Using the thumbtack function, you can specify if the dialog box remains displayed or
not when you open other docking dialog boxes. For this purpose, you can click the
thumbtack icon, located in the upper-left corner of the dialog box, to toggle between
the two following options:

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Tacked option icon ( )

The dialog box remains open when you open other docking dialog boxes.
Untacked option icon ( )
The dialog box closes when you open other docking dialog boxes.

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3. Concepts and Operational Mode

The FocusPC user interface shown in Figure 3-1 on page 45 provides toolbars,
dockable dialog boxes, a data display, and a status bar.

Toolbars

Dockable vertical
dialog box

Window with data

display views

Status bar

Dockable
horizontal dialog
box

Figure 3‑1 The main elements of the FocusPC user interface

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3.1 FocusPC Modes

FocusPC has three modes:

Setup
Mode in which you set up the various hardware and software parameters
(ultrasonic, scan, and window layout settings). FocusPC starts in Setup mode
when it is connected to an acquisition instrument.
Inspection
Mode in which you perform data acquisition. Inspection mode is available only
when FocusPC is connected to an acquisition instrument.
Analysis
Mode in which you carry out analysis and produce reports for recorded data.
FocusPC starts in Analysis mode when it is not connected to an acquisition
instrument.
To go from one mode to the another, on the Dashboard, click the mode button (see
Figure 3-2 on page 47). The mode button changes depending on the current mode.

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Setup mode
To configure FocusPC for the setup
and the parts to inspect

Analysis mode Inspection mode

To analyze the acquired data Dashboard mode button To perform the inspection and
acquire data

Figure 3‑2 Switching between modes

The status bar, which remains visible below the views, includes a Mode parameter
that indicates the current mode (see Figure 3-3 on page 47).

Mode

Figure 3‑3 The mode indicated in the status bar

3.2 Groups

In FocusPC, a group is a defined configuration of parameters to generate one or more

ultrasonic beams using a conventional or phased array probe. A group can pulse and
receive on the same probe, or you can use two different probes, one to pulse, and the
other to receive, and a probe can be used by more than one group.

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Assembling different beams in one group allows you to set the same parameters for
all the beams at one time. This also allows you to display images built from all beams
(such as a sectorial scan). Depending on the application, it might be helpful to use
different settings for different beams (for example, different band-pass filters),
justifying the creation of one group per beam.

You can create, delete, select, and configure groups on the Dashboard (see Figure 3-4
on page 48).

Add a group Delete a group

Name of the active group

Basic A-scan parameters

Figure 3‑4 The Group area in the Dashboard

For example, you can create a first phased array group to generate a linear scan, a
second group to generate a sectorial scan, and then display them concurrently in a
layout (see Figure 3-5 on page 49).

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Figure 3‑5 Example of two scans from two different groups

3.3 Calculator

The Calculator is an Olympus software that comes with FocusPC. You start the
Calculator on the Dashboard by clicking the Calculator button ( ). From FocusPC,
use the Calculator to specify the probe and wedge used in the inspection, the
geometry and material of the inspected part, and the beam configuration. The
Calculator calculates the beams and returns the information to FocusPC.

NOTE
Refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual for more details.

3.4 Scans

In FocusPC, you can configure scan parameters and save them as a named scan.
FocusPC comes with useful predefined scans.

You can edit, delete, or create a scan configuration (including predefined scans) using
the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box (see Figure 3-6 on page 50). The scan
configurations are saved in the hardware setup (.fps) file.

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Figure 3‑6 The Scan tab of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box

The following predefined scans are available:

Free running
Scan where data is acquired at the rate specified under PRF on the Digitizer tab
of the UT Settings dialog box. The data is recorded at only one position, at the
origin of the scan and index axes.
Encoded ‑ 1 axis
Scan using one position encoder to determine the position during the acquisition
along a linear path. The data is recorded at every interval (corresponding to the
resolution setting) along the path from the start position to the end position of the
scan axis.
Encoded ‑ 2 axis
Scan using two position encoders to determine the position during the acquisition
on a bidimensional surface scan. The data is recorded at every interval
(corresponding to the resolution setting) along the path from the start position to
the end position of both the scan and index axes.
Inter. clock ‑ 1 axis
Scan using the internal clock (PRF) to determine the position during the
acquisition along a linear path. The data is recorded at every interval
(corresponding to the resolution setting) along the path from the start position to
the end position of the scan axis.
Inter. clock ‑ 2 axis
Scan using the internal clock (PRF) to determine the position during the
acquisition on a bidimensional surface scan. The data is recorded at every interval
(corresponding to the resolution setting) along the path from the start position to
the end position of both the scan and index axes.

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TIP
When you modify or delete predefined scans, you can restore them by opening a
default hardware setup (.fps) file.

3.5 Probe Orientation Conventions

This section describes the conventions used in FocusPC for the probe and the wedge
orientations relative to the axes.

The probes and wedges are illustrated schematically as shown in Figure 3-7 on
page 51. The probe element number of a phased array generally increases from the
back to the front of the probe/wedge assembly.

Probe

Probe/wedge front
Elements

Wedge
Side view

Probe
Beam direction
Elements

Wedge Probe/wedge front

Top view

Figure 3‑7 An example illustration of a probe and a wedge

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NOTE
In applications where the probe connector or wire is physically interfering with other
inspection setup components, you can mount the probe in a reverse position on the
wedge. To notify FocusPC about this, in the Calculator, select the Reverse primary
axis check box under the Probe area. The check box is automatically selected when
you select a reversed wedge model.

The probe skew is defined as the angle between the primary axis of the probe and the
scan axis. The skew has a value of 0° when the beam direction points parallel to the
scan axis in the positive direction. The skew angle increases clockwise.

In the example shown in Figure 3-8 on page 53, the angle beam probe is moving on
the inspected part along the scan axis following a raster scan pattern. The beam
direction is parallel to the scan axis. Consequently, the probe skew is equal to 0°.

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Probe3.31
scan offset
Scan axis
Probe Index Probe skew = 0°
1.20"
Offset
Beam direction

Moving direction
Index axis

Top view

Inspected part

Side view

Figure 3‑8 Raster scan plate inspection with 0° probe skew

In the example shown in Figure 3-9 on page 54, the probe is moving on the inspected
part along the scan axis. The beam direction is along the ultrasonic axis but the beam
electronic scanning direction is parallel to the index axis. Consequently, the probe
skew is equal to 90°.

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2.08po
Probe scan offset
Scan axis
Beam electronic scanning direction

1.46" index
offset

Probe skew = 90°

Probe
Moving direction

Index axis

End view Top view

Figure 3‑9 Plate inspection with 90° probe skew

In the example shown in Figure 3-10 on page 54, the angle beam probe is moving on
the inspected part along the scan axis and the beam direction is parallel to the scan
axis. Consequently, the probe skew is equal to 0°.

Probe scan offset

1.58po
Scan axis
Probe skew = 0°

Beam direction Moving direction

Index axis

Top view

Side view

Figure 3‑10 Rivet inspection with 0° probe skew

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In the example shown in Figure 3-11 on page 55, a mechanical scanner is holding two
angle beam PA probes and two angle beam UT probes. The four angle beam probes
are moving on the inspected part along the scan axis and the along the weld. The
direction of the beam is parallel to the index axis. Consequently, the probe skews are
equal to 90° or to 270°.

2.92po
UT Probes scan offset

Skew = 90°
Scanner moving direction

Scan axis
Weld
Skew = 270°
Index axis

Scanner (assembly of two PA probes

1.28po
PA probes and 2 UT probes)
scan offset
End view Top view

Figure 3‑11 Weld inspection using a scanner with 90° and 270° probe skews

In the example shown in Figure 3-12 on page 56, the angle beam probes are moving
on the inspected disc or wheel circumference along the scan axis. The beam direction
is parallel to the scan axis. Consequently, the probe skews are equal to 0° or to 180°.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

2e°t <0 30.0

Probe
30.0
offs scan
Probe
scan offset
>2° 0
se°t < 0
ca.n9off8 20a.n5off2se°t >
e s9
Probe sc
Prob1 0

0
= Probe
skew skew
Probe ° = 0°
180
° Pr
=0 ob
e
ew 18 skew
e sk 0° =
P rob

Sc
an
axi
s
Figure 3‑12 Disc or wheel inspection with 0° and 180° probe skews

In the example shown in Figure 3-13 on page 57, two facing angle beam PA probes are
moving on the inspected tube along the scan axis along the weld. The scan axis,
represented by the symbol in Figure 3-13 on page 57, is oriented in the third
dimension perpendicular to the plan of the figure and extends in a direction away
from the reader’s point of view. The beam directions are parallel to the index axis.
Consequently, the probe skews are equal to 90° and 270°.

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Probe index
12.08° 12.00°
Probe index
offset < 0
offset > 0

0
Scan axis

Prob
ew = e sk
e sk e
Pr ob 270° w =
90°

In d
ex
axi
s
Figure 3‑13 Tube weld inspection with 90° and 270° probe skews

3.6 Layouts

In FocusPC, a layout is an organization of two or more views appearing in the

window. Layouts offer extensive flexibility in how you present your inspection data.

FocusPC offers a set of ten layouts that are available on the Dashboard for quick
selection (see Figure 3-14 on page 57). You can also select one of the layouts on the
Layout menu. A set of ten layouts is saved in an .rst file.

Currently selected layout

Set of ten available layouts

Figure 3‑14 The set of ten layouts

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The predefined layouts button of the Dashboard allows you to quickly load a set of
predefined layouts adapted to an application (see Figure 3-15 on page 58).

Predefined layouts button

Figure 3‑15 Selecting predefined layouts

3.7 Views

Several types of views can be used to display the data for the current document.
Figure 3-16 on page 58 contains an example of an A-scan data view.

Title bar

Cursor
Zoom bar

Ruler
Note

Gate

Figure 3‑16 Example of an active A‑scan view

A view contains the following elements:

Title bar
The title bar of the active view is highlighted with a light-blue background as
shown in Figure 3-17 on page 59.

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Figure 3‑17 Example of the title bar of an active view

The title bar contains information describing the data in the view:
<Group Number><Group Name>[S: <Skew Angle>, A: <Beam Angles>]
where:
<Group Number>: Sequential number identifying the group (ex.: Gr1).
<Group Name>: Name of the group (ex.: Sectorial 1)
<Skew Angle>: Skew angle of the current group (ex.: 90°) taking into account
the skew angle of the probe and of the beam.
<Beam Angles>: Angle or range of beam angles (ex.: 40° to 60°)
Rulers
The rulers are scales displayed at the left and at the bottom of a view. The color of
the ruler identifies the axis. The units and number of precision digits can be
adjusted using the View Properties > Units tab.
Zoom bar
Zoom bars appear at the left and bottom edges of a view. Each zoom bar contains
a zoom box, which enables you to set the visible part of the view. The zoom box
shows the relative position and the proportion of data currently visible in the data
display area relative to the contents of the entire inspection domain. The color of
the zoom bar identifies the axis on the different views. You can resize the zoom
bar by dragging its ends to zoom in or out and scroll the zoom bar to see other
parts of the data. You can use the mouse wheel with or without the CTRL key to
scroll the zoom bars.
Grid
The grid consists of thin horizontal and vertical lines that are displayed in the
curve area to facilitate measurements and correspondence with the rulers.
Depending on the distance between lines, the grid might be coarse, medium, or
fine. The grid can be activated and customized using the View Properties >
Display tab.
Cursors
The cursors are thin horizontal and vertical lines that are used to measure the data
displayed in views and to identify a region in the view. A label indicates the exact

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measure of each cursor. Two cursor types are available for a view: reference and
measurement cursors.
You can quickly display the reference cursor by double-clicking in a view.
Similarly, double-right-click in a view to display the measurement cursor.

3.7.1 Data View Types

Data views are graphical representations of the ultrasonic data. There are three types
of ultrasonic views:

1. Basic views:
— A-scan
— S-scan
2. Volumetric views:
— Side (B)
— Top (C)
— End (D)
— Polar
3. Scrolling views:
— Scrolling B-scan
— Scrolling strip chart (position)
— Scrolling strip chart (amplitude)
You can select the data view type for a view by selecting the view, and then clicking

or pressing SHIFT+ENTER to open the Contents dialog box (see example in

Figure 3-18 on page 61). In the Contents dialog box, the available data view types
depend on various parameters including the acquisition type (conventional [ ] or
phased array [ ]) and the mode (Setup, Inspection, or Analysis).

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Figure 3‑18 Example of data view types for phased array data

TIP

A view appears empty when its content (conventional [ ] or phased array [ ]) is

not available in the current data file.

3.7.1.1 Basic Views

The following is a description of each type of basic view.

A-scan view
The A-scan view is the basis for all other views. It is a representation (view) of the
received ultrasonic pulse amplitude versus time of flight (ultrasonic path), or a
waveform. The A-scan view is displayed in real time (see example in Figure 3-19 on
page 62). A peak in the signal is associated with the echo of a defect or a discontinuity
in the specimen. Peaks at the start and the end of the ultrasonic axis are generally
associated with the echo of the specimen’s entry surface (front wall) and the back wall.

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Figure 3‑19 Example of an A‑scan view

Sectorial views

NOTE
Sectorial views are only available for phased array channels.

Sectorial views are representations of the juxtaposition of the A-scans associated with
each focal law of a phased array scan. They present a 2-D view of the sector covered
by the scan. Figure 3-20 on page 63 shows the three types of sectorial representation
for a given data set.

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Figure 3‑20 Example of Uncorrected (top‑left), USound corrected (top‑right), and

VC sectorial (bottom‑left) scans

The three sectorial scan view types are:

Uncorrected sectorial scan

View where the A-scan of each focal law (see top-left view of the example in
Figure 3-20 on page 63) is represented by a horizontal line on which the
amplitude is color-coded. The displayed real-time data shows the focal laws
stacked (vertically in the example) in the order that they were generated.
Sectorial scan (Usound corrected)
View similar to the uncorrected sectorial scan except that the A-scans are
corrected for delay and true depth so that their positions are accurate relative to
the ultrasonic axis (see top-right view of the example in Figure 3-20 on page 63).

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VC sectorial scan
Volume-corrected view similar to the uncorrected sectorial scan except that the
A-scans are corrected for delay and refracted angle so that the positions are
accurate relative to the ultrasonic and scan axes. A typical S-scan sweeps through
a range of angles using the same focal distance and elements. The horizontal axis
corresponds to the projected distance (test-piece width) from the exit point for a
corrected image and the vertical axis corresponds to the depth (see bottom-left
view of the example in Figure 3-20 on page 63).
When an azimuthal scan is defined by the calculator, the sectorial-scan view
represents an angular sector where each line of this view corresponds to the A-scan of
a different angle. Therefore, when a linear scan is defined, the sectorial-scan view
represents the beam movement. Each line then corresponds to an A-scan of different
aperture. Finally, when a depth scan is defined, the sectorial-scan view then
represents the beam focusing at different depths. Each line then corresponds to a
different A-scan.

3.7.1.2 Volumetric Views

Volumetric views are color-coded images built from successive A-scans projected on
different planes defined by the ultrasonic, scan, and index axes. The most important
views, similar to 2-D projections of a technical drawing, are presented in Figure 3-21
on page 65.

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Top (C) view

Index axis

is
ax
an
Sc Index axis
is

is

Ultrasonic axis
ax

Ultrasonic axis

ax
an

an
Sc

Sc
Index axis Side (B) view
Ultrasonic axis

End (D) view

Figure 3‑21 Example of ultrasonic views [Top (C), Side (B), and End (D)] with probe
skew angle of 90°

In Figure 3-21 on page 65, if the probe skew angle is 0° (or 180°), the Side (B) view
becomes the End (D) view, and vice versa. The Side (B) view is defined by the depth
and probe-movement axes. The End (D) view is defined by the depth and the
electronic-scan axis.

Side (B)
The Side (B) view (see Figure 3-22 on page 66) is a two-dimensional graphical
representation of the recorded data. One of the axes is the scan axis; the other is the
uncorrected ultrasonic (USound) path. The position of the displayed data is related to

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the encoder positions at the moment of acquisition. At a given position on the

projected image, the color corresponds to the maximum amplitude at this position as
detected in the considered index-axis range.

Figure 3‑22 Example of Side (B) view

Top (C)
The Top (C) view (see Figure 3-23 on page 67) is a two-dimensional graphical
representation of the recorded data displayed as a top view of the test specimen. One
of the axes is the scan axis; the other is the index axis. The position of the displayed
data is related to the encoder positions at the moment of acquisition. At a given
position on the projected image, the color corresponds to the maximum amplitude at
this position as detected in the considered true-depth range.

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Figure 3‑23 Example of Top (C) view

End (D)
The End (D) view (see Figure 3-24 on page 68) is a two-dimensional graphical
presentation of the recorded data. One of the axes is the defined index axis; the other
is the uncorrected ultrasonic (USound) path. The position of the displayed data is
related to the encoder positions at the moment of acquisition. At a given position on
the projected image, the color corresponds to the maximum amplitude at this position
as detected in the considered scan-axis range.

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Figure 3‑24 Example of End (D) view

Polar view

NOTE
The Polar view is available only when the geometry of the specimen is identified as

cylindrical. This can be done by clicking (part and material definition) and then,
in the Part Definition dialog box, defining the part as Cylindrical.

The Polar view (see Figure 3-25 on page 69) is a two-dimensional representation of the
recorded data in a realistic cylindrical geometry. It is used in Analysis mode. The
readings in the Cylindrical Correction category are calculated taking into account the
previously defined specimen.

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Depending on the orientation of the scan axis relative to the cylindrical geometry, and
the skew angle of the considered probe, the Polar view is the cylindrical equivalent of
either the VC-Side (B) view or the VC-End (D) view. Either distance units (mm or in.)
or rotational units (°) can be used and displayed in the circumferential direction of the
cylinder.

NOTE
The Polar view is only supported for skew angles of 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°; however,
for data with other skew angle values, the Cylindrical Correction view information
can be used to calculate the correct position and size of indications.

Figure 3‑25 Example of a Polar view

3.7.1.3 Scrolling Views

Several types of scrolling views are available on FocusPC, as described below.

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Scrolling B-scan
In the Scrolling B-scan view (see Figure 3-26 on page 70), each A-scan is represented
by a horizontal line on which the amplitude is color-coded. The lines are added
consecutively in real time, from the bottom, so that the resulting image scrolls up.
Therefore, the data view shows the real time vertically, versus the time of flight of the
received ultrasonic pulse horizontally.

Figure 3‑26 Example of Scrolling B‑scan view

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Strip charts — amplitude and position scrolling views

NOTE
The amplitude and/or position scrolling views are only available when the options for
the recording of the selected amplitude and/or position data are enabled on the Gates
tab of the UT Settings dialog box (refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual).

In an amplitude or position scrolling view, the data of the signal crossing the
associated gate is represented by a color-coded Scrolling view, which is displayed
inside a Strip Chart view. The Scrolling view can be configured using the
Configuration tab of the View Properties dialog box (available only when a Strip
Chart view is selected).

Figure 3‑27 Example of amplitude scrolling view

3.7.2 View Shortcut Menu

When a data view type is assigned to a view, display options are available from a
shortcut menu. The shortcut menu appears when you right-click the title bar of a view
(see example shown in Figure 3-28 on page 72).

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Figure 3‑28 Example of the shortcut menu for a view

The view shortcut menu changes depending on the view type. The possible view
shortcut menu commands are the following:

Data commands
Set Active Data Group Settings
Provides one or more choices (Active Group, Active Law, and Active Gate) to set
the view to show data for the active item (group, beam, or gate), automatically
following changes of the active selection.
Set Single Slice (Projection)
Toggles between the single- and projection-data displays in the view. The
command is also available in the Data Source tab of the View Properties dialog
box.
Set Data Group Representation
Provides one or more choices for sectorial scans (Sector (S) and TOF), and for
C-scans (Stacked, Single Beam, Strip, and Scrolling Strip).

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Restore Initial Gates

Only available in Analysis mode, this selection is used to reposition all gates
either for the current group or for all groups to the positions where they were
when the data was originally acquired.
Set Dynamic Mode
Only available in Setup and Inspection mode, this selection is used to toggle
between the dynamic state and the analysis state (off-line).

Show commands
Show Info Group
Toggles the appearance of the information groups below the title bar of the view.
Show Gate Selectors
Toggles the appearance of the gate selectors on the selected view.
Show Zoombar and Rulers
Toggles the appearance of the zoom bars and the rulers. The command is also
available in the Display tab of the View Properties dialog box.
Show Echo Dynamics
Toggles the appearance of the echo dynamics signals next to the relevant axis. The
echo dynamic curves show the maximum amplitude (or minimum position)
between the measurement and reference cursors (see example shown in
Figure 3-29 on page 74). The command is also available in the Echo Dynamics tab
of the View Properties dialog box.
Show Skip Overlays
Toggles the appearance of the overlay lines representing the skips. The command
is also available in the Overlay tab of the View Properties dialog box.
Show Rebounds
Toggles the appearance of the rebounds (see example shown in Figure 3-29 on
page 74).

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Echo dynamics Rebound

Figure 3‑29 Examples of shown echo dynamic curves and rebound

Show Gates
Toggles the appearance of the gates. This option is only available for A-scan and
S-scan views. The command is also available in the Overlay tab of the View
Properties dialog box.

Display mode commands

Set 1:1 Ratio Display Mode
Displays the view with the same scale on both axes. The command is also
available in the Display tab of the View Properties dialog box.
Set Smoothing Display Mode
Enables the smoothing function. The command is also available in the Display tab
of the View Properties dialog box.
Set Volume Corrected Display Mode
Toggles the A-scan correction for delay and refracted angle so that the positions
are accurate, relative to the ultrasonic and scan axes.
Rotate View
Rotates the data so that the two axes interchange. The command is also available
in the Display tab of the View Properties dialog box.

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Color palette commands

The following shortcut menu commands are also available on the Palette tab of the
View Properties dialog box. These commands are only available on the menu when
the view supports a color palette.

Select Color Palette

Used to select one of the available color palettes (Rainbow, Gray, Thickness, or
Balanced).
Set Color Palette Compression Mode
Toggles the state of the color palette compression. When you reduce the range for
the 256 colors of a palette without compression, you remove colors from the
palette. With compression, all palette colors are compressed in the new range.
Edit Color Palette
Opens the Palette Editor dialog box, where you can edit existing color palettes or
create new color palettes.

Display preferences commands

Save Display Preference
Saves the current view properties as the default properties.
Apply Display Preference
Applies the default view properties to the currently selected view.

TIP
On the keyboard, press F4 and SHIFT+F4 to respectively activate the Save Display
Preference and the Apply Display Preference commands.

Ultrasonic axis commands

Reverse USound Axis
Reverses the direction of the ultrasonic axis. The command is only available for
the A-scan view. The command is also available on the Display tab of the View
Properties dialog box.

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Change USound True Depth / Half Path

Toggles the ultrasonic axis unit between true depth and half path. The command
is only available for the A-scan view when the ultrasonic axis is set to either true
depth or half path.
Change USound TOFD / Time
Toggles the ultrasonic axis ruler between TOFD and time. The command is only
available for the A-scan view when the ultrasonic axis is set to either time or
TOFD.

TIP
You can set the type and the units of USound axis in the Units tab of the View
Properties dialog box.

Calibrate UT Axis
Only available in Analysis mode, this command opens the dialog box for the
calibration of the True Depth, the Half Path, or the TOFD on the ultrasonic axis.
The command is also available on the Units tab of the View Properties dialog box
and in Setup mode, on the General tab of the UT Settings dialog box.

3.8 Readings and Information Groups

FocusPC computes reading values for various parameters to help you analyze your
ultrasonic data. Readings are calculated using cursor, zone, or acquisition parameters.

You can select to display one or more groups of readings at the top of a view (see
Figure 3-30 on page 77).

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Reading groups

Figure 3‑30 Example of reading groups appearing at the top of a view

See “Working with the Readings” on page 120 for more information on how to
customize the reading groups.

3.9 Gates

A gate is a signal processing tool that isolates a time domain region of the received
ultrasonic signal in order to process it further. In an A-scan view, a gate appears as a
horizontal line with short vertical lines at both ends. The vertical position of the gate
line indicates the signal detection threshold (see Figure 3-31 on page 78). When the
rectification of the receiver is set to RF, the threshold of a gate can be positive or
negative.

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Gate start position

Gate threshold

Gate length

Figure 3‑31 Example of gate A in an A‑scan

In an S-scan view, the gate start and end positions appear as horizontal dashed lines
(see Figure 3-32 on page 78). When the time base mode is set to true depth, the area in
between is the gated zone for all beams. When the time base mode is set to half path,
the area between the dashed lines is the gated zone for the current beam only. The
dashed lines of the gate automatically move to the appropriate location when you
change the current beam.

Gate start

Gate length

Figure 3‑32 Example of gate A in an S‑scan

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FocusPC supports up to five gates (gate I, gate A, gate B, gate C, and gate D), allowing
you to perform complex signal processing. The function of gate I, the interface gate, is
to identify the interface of the inspected part. Gate A, B, C, and D are general purpose
gates (see “Gate Usage Example” on page 128). Each gate has its own color to easy
identification (see Figure 3-33 on page 79).

Figure 3‑33 Gate colors

3.10 Expert Mode

FocusPC includes an Expert mode in which a larger number of readings are available.
The categories of readings available in the Information Groups dialog box when
Expert mode is active are shown in Figure 3-34 on page 79.

Figure 3‑34 The categories of readings in the Expert mode

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To activate/deactivate Expert mode

1. On the main menu bar, select File > Preferences.
2. In the Preferences dialog box, select the General Settings tab.
3. Under Interface, select or clear the Expert mode check box, to respectively
activate or deactivate the Expert mode.

3.11 File Formats

FocusPC can produce, open, and import various data types stored in various file
formats listed in Table 3 on page 80.

Table 3 File formats supported by FocusPC

File type Extension File content

Hardware setup .fps Setup of the acquisition instrument

Data .fpd Data file that contains display setup information

and acquisition setup information

Display setup .rst Display setup: layouts and system preferences

Report .r01 Report information including indication zone data

Calculator setup .xcal Calculator extended setup file

.cal Calculator setup file

.law Calculated beam parameters

.pac Calculated beam parameters readable by FocusPC

Attributes .A01 Attributes: data modified in analysis and associated

with the .fpd file

The hierarchical content of the file formats generated by FocusPC is illustrated in

Figure 3-35 on page 81.

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.fpd file

Raw UT data (amplitude, position)

.fps file

UT Settings
Scan settings
Preferences (see following note)

.xcal file .rst file

Calculator parameters Layouts

Simulation results Indication table customization

.a01 file .r01 file

Volumetric merge parameters Report information

Indication table Indication zone data
TOFD processing
Software C-scan

Figure 3‑35 FocusPC file organization

NOTE
The preferences data saved in the .rst file include view linking options, axis colors,
view colors, tool colors, and the measurement system. By default, the contents of the
.rst file is included in the .fps file.

NOTE
You can customize the default folders for the various data file types (refer to the
FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual for details).

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4. Setup Creation

A FocusPC configuration can be saved in the .fps (acquisition, also referred to as the
setup) file, which can be recalled at any time. This section describes the basic steps for
creating a setup file using FocusPC, starting from the default configuration.

4.1 Working with Setup Files

The following section describes how to create setup files.

4.1.1 Loading an .fps Setup File

The FocusPC configuration can be stored in the .fps file. An .fpd (data) file can also be
recalled to load the .fps configuration that was used at the time when the data was
recorded. You can reload the parameters into the ultrasonic acquisition instrument to
perform acquisition with the same parameters or to display the parameters that were
used for acquisition.

To load a FocusPC acquisition file

1. On the main menu bar, click File > Open to open a setup file.

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Figure 4‑1 The Open dialog box

2. In the Open dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-1 on page 84), proceed as
follows:
a) If a data file was selected, clear the Data (*.fpd) check box.
b) In the File Content section, select the file to be loaded.
c) Click Open.

4.1.2 Saving an .fps Setup File

To save a setup
1. On the main menu bar, click File > Save As to save a setup file.
2. In the Save As dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-2 on page 85), proceed as
follows:
a) For the .fps file to be saved, enter the File Name.
b) In the File Content section, select the elements to be saved.
c) Click Save to save the .fps file.
OR

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Click Set as default to make this setup file the new default configuration.

Figure 4‑2 The Save As dialog box

4.1.3 Default Setup Files

FocusPC comes with a number of default setup files that are designed to provide a
good starting point.

The default setup files are available in the default setup file folder ([Installation
Folder]\OlympusNDT\FocusPCnnn\Setup Files).

4.2 Working with Groups

In FocusPC, a group is a defined configuration of parameters to generate one or more

ultrasonic beams using a conventional or phased array probe. A group can pulse and
receive on the same probe, or you can use two different probes, one to pulse, and the
other to receive, and a probe can be used by more than one group. The following
sections describe how to create and configure phased array and conventional UT
groups (see “Groups” on page 47 for more information on groups).

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4.2.1 Adding and Configuring a Phased Array Group

The following procedure describes how to create a phased array group in FocusPC.
Although some of the steps may not be mandatory for all inspection types, it provides
an overview of the power and flexibility of FocusPC.

To add and configure a phased array pulse-echo group

1. On the Dashboard, click to add a group (see Figure 4-3 on page 86).

Start the Calculator

Add a group
Select the group

Figure 4‑3 Adding or selecting a group

2. In the Group Creation Wizard dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-4 on
page 87), proceed as follows:
a) Select Phased array for the type of group to create.
b) Enter a name for the new group in the Specify name box (for example: Angle
Beam).
c) Click Finish.

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Figure 4‑4 The Group Creation Wizard dialog box

3. On the Dashboard (see Figure 4-3 on page 86), proceed as follows:

a) Select the newly created group.

b) Click to open the Calculator.

The Calculator is where you specify the probe and wedge used for the
inspection, the geometry and material of the inspected part, and the beam
configuration. See “Calculator” on page 49 for details.
4. In the Calculator, perform the following tasks:
a) For an angle beam phased array inspection, click the 1‑D Linear Array tab
(see Figure 4-5 on page 88).

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Figure 4‑5 The Calculator dialog box

b) Under Probe, select the type of probe (Angle Beam) and the probe model (see
Figure 4-6 on page 89).

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Type
Model

Figure 4‑6 Selecting the probe

c) Under Part, select the inspected part geometry type and enter its thickness
(see Figure 4-7 on page 89).

Figure 4‑7 Specifying the inspected part geometry

d) Under Material, select the inspected part material and the Longitudinal or
Transverse ultrasonic wave type (see Figure 4-8 on page 90).

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Figure 4‑8 Specifying the inspected part material

e) Under Wedge, select the type of wedge and the wedge model (see Figure 4-9
on page 90).

Type
Model

Figure 4‑9 Specifying the wedge

f) In the Scan Type list, for an angle beam inspection, select Sectorial, Depth,
Static, or Linear. For more information on the differences between the Scan
Types, refer to the Advanced NDT Series books available for free on the
Olympus website.
g) Under Beam Angles Selection, select Refracted angle, and then specify the
Start value and the Stop and Resolution values if they are available (depends
on the selected Scan Type).

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h) Under Focal Points Selection, set the Focusing type to True Depth, Half
Path, Projection, or Focal Plane, and if desired, select if you want to have
dynamic depth focusing (DDF) activated. Then, define the Focal plane
position, Emission focus position, and Reception focus position if available.
i) Under Elements Selection, select Primary axis aperture, and then enter the
number of elements to use for each focal law. Then, define the Start, Stop, and
Resolution values if available.
j) Under Connection, set the Pulser and the Receiver values. This will define
the element to use as the first element for the transmitter and receiver focal
laws.
k) At the bottom of the Calculator, click Draw.
FocusPC prepares the beam display information.
l) Wait for the progress bar to complete.
m) At the top of the Calculator, click the Beam display info tab.
n) Use the four views and the parameters below the views to validate the
calculated beams (see Figure 4-10 on page 92).

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Figure 4‑10 Example of the Beam display info tab in the Calculator

o) Return to the 1-D Linear array tab, and then, if necessary, make further
adjustment to the parameters.
p) At the bottom of the Calculator, click Replace to calculate the configured focal
laws and send the information back to FocusPC.

To add and configure a phased array pitch-catch or trough transmission group

1. Follow steps 1 to 4.e of the procedure called “To add and configure a phased array
pulse-echo group” on page 86.

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2. Click to open the Calculator:

a) Under Scan Type, select Static.
b) Under Beam Angles Selection, select Refracted angle, and then specify the
Start value for the Pulser.
c) Under Elements Selection, define the Start and Primary axis aperture values.
d) At the bottom of the Calculator, click Replace to calculate the configured focal
laws and send the information back to FocusPC.

3. Click to open the Calculator:

a) Under Beam Angles Selection, select Refracted angle, and then specify the
Start value for the Receiver.
b) Under Elements Selection, define the Start and Primary axis aperture values.
c) Under Probe, define the Probe skew angle for the receiver, if necessary.
d) At the bottom of the Calculator, click Replace Rec to calculate the configured
reception focal laws and send the information back to FocusPC.

4. Click to open the Calculator:

a) In the Phased Array Parameters Source dialog box (see Figure 4-11 on
page 93), select the sector to be edited, and then select Emission and click OK.
The Calculator will open with the corresponding Pulser configuration.
b) In the Calculator, click Add.
This will add a new beam with a similar configuration to the one defined in
step 2.

Figure 4‑11 The Phased Array Parameters Source dialog box

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5. Click to open the Calculator:

a) In the Phased Array Parameters Source dialog box (see Figure 4-11 on
page 93), select the sector to be edited and then select Emission, and then
click OK.
b) Edit the different available parameters, if necessary.
c) At the bottom of the Calculator, click Replace to calculate the configured focal
laws and send the information back to FocusPC.

6. Click to open the Calculator:

a) In the Phased Array Parameters Source dialog box (see Figure 4-11 on
page 93), select the sector to be edited, and then select Reception and click
OK.
b) Edit the different available parameters, if necessary.
c) At the bottom of the Calculator, click Replace Rec to calculate the configured
reception focal laws and send the information back to FocusPC.
7. Repeat steps 4 to 6 until all your beams are properly configured.

4.2.2 Adding and Configuring a Conventional UT Group

The following procedure describes how to create a conventional UT group in
FocusPC. The configuration of a conventional UT group is not performed in the
Calculator as is done for the phased array groups. Therefore, the acoustic
configuration and part definition will need to be performed separately.

To add and configure a conventional UT group

1. On the Dashboard, click to add a group.

2. In the Group Creation Wizard dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-12 on
page 95), proceed as follows:
a) Select Conventional UT for the type of group to create.
b) Enter a name for the new group in the Specify name box (for example,
Conventional Beam).
c) If you want the Conventional UT group to be configured on the phased array
connector rather than the HD connectors, clear the Use HD Connectors check
box.
d) Click Finish.

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Figure 4‑12 The Group Creation Wizard dialog box (conventional UT)

3. On the component toolbar, click (part and material).

4. In the Part Definition dialog box (see Figure 4-13 on page 96), proceed as follows:
a) Under Material Velocity, set the ultrasonic velocities for the Longitudinal
waves and Transversal waves in the part.
b) Under Dimensions, set the values describing your part.
c) For cylindrical parts, under Probe Positioning, select the appropriate
Inspection from and Scan orientation values.
d) Click OK.

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Figure 4‑13 The Part Definition dialog box

5. On the Dashboard, select the newly created group (see Figure 4-14 on page 96).

Select the group

Figure 4‑14 Selecting the UT group in the Dashboard

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6. On the component toolbar, click the UT Settings button ( ).

7. In the UT Settings dialog box, proceed as follows:
a) On the Pulser/Receiver tab, set the connectors for Pulser and Receiver along
with the Pulse width value for your UT probe.
Divide 500 by the probe frequency expressed in MHz to get the pulse width
value expressed in ns (ex.: 500/10 MHz = 50 ns).
b) On the Position tab, under Probe, define the Scan offset and Index offset
values.
c) On the Position tab, under Beam, enter the appropriate Refracted angle and
Skew angle values.

4.2.3 Adding and Configuring a TOFD Group

The following procedure describes how to create a TOFD group in FocusPC. Just as
for a Conventional UT group, the TOFD configuration is not performed in the
Calculator. Therefore, the acoustic configuration is performed separately.

To add and configure a TOFD group

1. On the Dashboard, click to add a group.

2. In the Group Creation Wizard dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-15 on
page 98), proceed as follows:
a) Select TOFD for the group type.
b) Enter a name for the new group in the Specify name box (for example, TOFD
group).
c) If you want the Conventional UT group to be configured on the phased array
connector rather than the HD connectors, clear the Use HD Connectors check
box.
d) Click Finish.

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Figure 4‑15 The Group Creation Wizard dialog box (TOFD)

3. In the UT Settings > Pulser/Receiver dialog box:

a) Under Pulser, set Connector to the value corresponding to the pulser
connector number.
b) Under Receiver, set Connector to the value corresponding to the receiver
connector number.
c) Set the Voltage to the highest value available.
d) Set the Pulse width value for your UT probe.
Divide the number 500 by the probe frequency (expressed in MHz) to obtain
the pulse width value expressed in ns (ex., 500/10 MHz = 50 ns).

4.2.4 Switching between Groups

When you have more than one group in a configuration, you often need to switch the
focus from one group to the other.

To switch between groups

1. Right-click the view header (at the top of the view) and select Active Group (see
Figure 4-16 on page 99).
2. On the Dashboard, change the active group.

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Figure 4‑16 Selecting Active Group

4.2.5 Renaming Groups

To rename a group

1. Click to open the UT Settings dialog box.

2. In the UT Settings dialog box, select the Group you want to rename.
3. Click in the Group box, and then type the new group name.
4. Press Enter.

4.2.6 Deleting Groups

To delete a group
1. On the Dashboard, select the Group you want to delete.

2. Click the Delete button ( ).

A message appears (see Figure 4-17 on page 100), asking you to confirm deletion
of the group.

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Figure 4‑17 The message for deleting a group

3. Click OK to confirm the operation.

4.3 Calibrating a Phased Array Group

The phased array technique requires the calibration and verification of all the UT
beams. The purpose of the calibration is to obtain a setup file that yields correct
results regarding the position and amplitude of a known reflector in a calibration
block.

The following sections present the calibration procedures to calibrate the beam delays
and sensitivity for phased array groups. For the phased array TCG calibration
procedure, see “Constructing a TCG Curve for a Phased Array Group” on page 114.

4.3.1 Calibrating the Beam Delays

The purpose of the phased array beam delay calibration is to adjust the delay of each
beam so that the indication of a known reflector appears at the correct depth for all
beams. This procedure must be performed for each group.

To calibrate the beam delays

1. On the component toolbar, click (Phased Array Calibration).

2. In FocusPC, in a Side (B), End (D), or Sector (S) view, position the Reference (red)
and Measurement (blue) cursors respectively above and below the reference
reflector of the calibration block (see Figure 4-18 on page 101).

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Figure 4‑18 Example of cursors around an indication in a Sector (S) view

3. In the Phased Array Calibration dialog box, proceed as follows:

a) Select the Beam Delays tab (see Figure 4-19 on page 101).
The graph presents the ultrasonic path between the Reference and
Measurement cursors on the vertical axis and the beams on the horizontal
axis.

Straight black line showing the real depth of the known reflector

Red line representing the depth of the highest maximum amplitude obtained for a
given beam during the scan

Distance envelope (blue line) representing the depth of the maximum amplitude for
each beam at a given moment
Dash lines representing the tolerance limits

Figure 4‑19 Curves for the beam delay calibration

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b) Under Calibration, in the Reflector position parameter, enter the true depth
of the known reflector used for this calibration.
c) If the reflector echo is too weak or too strong, adjust the Group gain
parameter.
d) In the Tolerance parameter, enter the acceptable calibration tolerance.
e) Select the Linear interpolation check box to activate the averaging of the
beam delays. The resulting line applies a global correction.
4. During the scan, the distance envelope (blue line) obtained for each beam is
drawn, and a curve representing the position of the maximum amplitude is
constructed (red line).
5. Place the probe on the calibration block and perform a first scan above the
reference reflector.

IMPORTANT
After a scan, the maximum amplitude curve (red line) should already be close to the
tolerance limits. When the maximum amplitude curve shape is significantly different,
revise the configuration of all parameters in the Calculator.

6. In the Phased Array Calibration dialog box, click Clear Trace to clear the data
from the previous scan.
7. Perform a new scan above the reference reflector on the calibration block.
In the graph, the red line might not always appear within the tolerance lines.
8. Click Calibrate.
The graph content is cleared and FocusPC calculates the wedge delay for each
beam so that the reflector indication appears at the requested depth.
9. Perform a new scan above the reference reflector on the calibration block to
validate the calibration by confirming that the red line appears within the
tolerance lines.

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Figure 4‑20 Red line appearing between tolerance lines after calibration

10. If the calibration is not successful, repeat steps 6 to 9.

11. If you need to reset the calibration, proceed as follows:

a) On the Dashboard, click the Calculator button ( ).

b) In the Calculator, click Replace.

4.3.2 Calibrating the Sensitivity

The purpose of the phased array sensitivity calibration is to adjust the gain of each
beam so that the amplitude of a known reflector appears at the same level for all
beams.

To calibrate the sensitivity

1. On the component toolbar, click (Phased Array Calibration).

2. In the Phased Array Calibration dialog box, click the Sensitivity tab.
3. Couple the probe to the calibration block and perform a first scan on the
calibration block above a reference reflector.
During the scan, FocusPC draws the distance envelope (blue line) obtained for
each beam and constructs a curve (red line) representing the position of the
maximum amplitude (see Figure 4-21 on page 104).

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Figure 4‑21 Sensitivity example after a first scan

4. In FocusPC, in a Side (B), End (D), or Sector (S) view, position the reference (red)
and measurement (blue) cursors respectively above and below the reference
reflector of the calibration block (see Figure 4-18 on page 101).
5. In the Phased Array Calibration dialog box:
a) Set the Reflector amplitude parameter to the amplitude (%) at which you
wish to see the reference reflector maximum amplitude appear.
b) In the Tolerance parameter, enter the acceptable amplitude tolerance.
c) If the reflector echo is too weak or too strong, adjust the Group gain
parameter.
d) Click Clear Trace to clear the data from the previous scan.
6. Perform a new scan above the reference reflector on the calibration block.
7. Click Calibrate.
FocusPC clears the graph content and calculates the gain for each beam so that the
reflector echo amplitude appears at the requested level for all beams.
8. Perform a new scan above the reference reflector on the calibration block to
validate the calibration by confirming that the red line appears within the
tolerance lines (see Figure 4-22 on page 105).

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Figure 4‑22 Curves for the sensitivity calibration

9. When the calibration is not successful, repeat steps 6 to 8.

10. If you want to review or reset the beam gains:

a) On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

b) In the Beam list above the tabs, select the desired beam.
c) In the General tab, under Gain, review or edit the Beam gain.
d) If required, reset the sensitivity calibration by clicking Reset Beam.

4.4 Calibrating a Conventional UT Group

You can calibrate the ultrasonic velocity and the wedge delay of a conventional UT
group using the parameters available on the General tab of the UT Settings dialog
box (see Figure 4-23 on page 105).

Figure 4‑23 The General tab of the UT Settings dialog box for a UT group

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You need a calibration block with one known reflector to perform the delay
calibration and a calibration block with two known reflectors to perform the velocity
calibration.

To calibrate a conventional UT group

1. On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

2. On the Dashboard, select the conventional UT group that you want to calibrate.
If necessary, you can create a new group by clicking the Add a new group button
( ) on the Dashboard and selecting the Conventional UT option.
3. In the UT Settings dialog box, select the probe category and model (see
Figure 4-24 on page 106).

Probe category and model Active UT group

Figure 4‑24 Selecting the probe in the UT Settings dialog box

4. Place the probe on the calibration block and position the probe over the two
reflectors with known positions.
5. On an A-scan view, proceed as follows:
a) Select and configure the view to see the echoes of the two reflectors.
b) Position the Reference cursor (red line) on the echo of the first reflector.
c) Position the Measurement cursor on the echo of the second reflector.
6. In the UT Settings dialog box, on the General tab:
a) Under Time Base, set Mode to Half path.
b) Under Auto Values, click Calibrate.
7. In the Time / Half Path dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-25 on page 107),
proceed as follows:
a) Under What Do You Want to Compute, select Compute Velocity and delay.

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b) Set Ref. cursor position to the known position of the first reflector.
c) Set Meas. cursor position to the known position of the second reflector.
d) Click OK.
FocusPC calculates the ultrasonic velocity and wedge delay and sets the
corresponding values in the UT Settings dialog box, on the Position tab.

Figure 4‑25 Calibrating with the Time / Half Path dialog box

4.5 Calibrating a TOFD Group in Setup Mode

Although TOFD groups are generally calibrated in Analysis mode, the following
procedure explains how to calibrate in Setup mode. For more information on how to
calibrate a TOFD group in Analysis mode, refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s
Manual.

To calibrate a TOFD group in Setup mode

1. On the component toolbar, click (add view content) and display the TOFD
group A-scan and Side (B) views.
2. In the UT Settings > General dialog box, under Time Base, set Mode to TOFD.

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3. On the component toolbar, click to open the TOFD Manager dialog box.
4. In the TOFD Manager dialog box, click Calibration.
5. In the TOFD dialog box, proceed as follows:
a) Under What Do You Want to Compute?, define which parameters you want
to compute.
b) Under Scan axis, define the scan axis as either parallel to beam, or
perpendicular to beam.
c) Under TOFD primary value and TOFD secondary value, define the
requested parameters.
d) Click OK.

NOTE
If you select the Compute velocity and wedge delay option under What Do You
Want to Compute? in the TOFD dialog box, the measurement cursor has to be
positioned on a second reference signal (for example, lateral wave).

The ultrasonic axis is now calibrated in Setup mode.

4.6 Working with Overlay Drawings

An overlay is a graphical representation of weld geometry or of a part that is

superimposed over an ultrasonic data view. The overlay helps to visualize where
defects are physically located relative to the weld or to the part geometry. FocusPC
provides predefined customizable overlays.

For weld inspection applications, you can add a weld drawing as an overlay in the
view.

To create a weld overlay

1. On the component toolbar, click (Add Weld), and proceed as follows:

a) In the Predefined Weld dialog box, click the appropriate weld type to open
the Weld Parameters dialog box (see Figure 4-26 on page 109).

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Figure 4‑26 The Predefined Weld and Weld Parameters (for Type 1) dialog boxes

b) In the Weld Parameters dialog box, type appropriate values to define your
weld, and then click OK.
c) Back in the Predefined Weld dialog box, select the Automatic flip check box,
and then click OK.
The weld overlay appears in the view (see Figure 4-27 on page 110).

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Original overlay

First flip

Second flip

Third flip

Figure 4‑27 Example of a weld overlay with three flips

4.7 Working with the TCG Curve

The time-corrected gain (TCG) function operates by modifying the receiver gain
during data acquisition to compensate for the attenuation of the ultrasonic wave in
the material. The TCG curve defines gain values that are added to the group gain.

FocusPC offers two methods to construct a TCG curve. For a UT conventional group
(mono-element probe) or for a linear 0-degree phased array group, you can use the
controls on the TCG tab of the UT Settings dialog box (see “Constructing a TCG
Curve for a Conventional UT Group” on page 110). For a phased array group, use the
Phased Array Calibration component (see “Constructing a TCG Curve for a Phased
Array Group” on page 114).

In order to build a TCG curve, a calibration block is required with same-sized

reflectors at different depths. You can then display the TCG curve as a red line at the
top of the corresponding A-scan view (see “Displaying or Hiding the TCG Curve” on
page 113).

4.7.1 Constructing a TCG Curve for a Conventional UT Group

Use the controls on the TCG tab of the UT Settings dialog box to construct a TCG
curve for a UT conventional group or for a 0-degree linear phased array group to
which the same TCG curve is applied to all laws.

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To define a TCG curve

1. Choose a layout that includes an A-scan view.
2. Enable the TCG function:

a) On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

b) In the UT Settings dialog box, click the TCG tab, and then select the Enable
check box (see Figure 4-28 on page 111).

Figure 4‑28 The TCG tab of the UT Settings dialog box

3. Set Current TCG to either Full Range or High Resolution.

NOTE
Only the High Resolution option is available for UT groups on the HD connectors.

4. Place the probe on a calibration block that has same-sized reflectors at different
known depths.
5. Position the probe to get well-defined echoes on the A-scan (see Figure 4-29 on
page 112).

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Figure 4‑29 The A‑scan before adding the first TCG point.

6. In the UT Settings dialog box, set the Reference level parameter to the amplitude
level for the echo, expressed in percent of the full-screen height. The 80 % default
setting is suitable as a basic setting in most cases.
7. On the A-scan view, position the Reference and the Measurement cursors to the
left and the right of the echo by double-clicking and double-right-clicking
respectively.
8. Maximize the signal amplitude by moving the probe over the indication. Use the
envelope tool to help you find the maximum signal.
9. In the UT Settings dialog box, click Add Point to add the chosen point to the TCG
curve. When needed, click New Line to add an empty line.
FocusPC adjusts the gain to bring the peak of the selected echo to 80 % of the full-
screen height.

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Figure 4‑30 The A‑scan after adding the first TCG point

10. Repeat steps 7 to 9 for each point you want to add to the TCG curve. A minimum
of two points is required to define a functional TCG curve.

IMPORTANT
A Point gain with a negative value is not applied. Ensure to construct your TCG curve
without negative point gains. Point 0 corresponding with the interface is not always
the one with the highest amplitude.

4.7.2 Displaying or Hiding the TCG Curve

The TCG curve can be displayed or hidden using the following steps:

To display or hide the TCG curve

1. Select the A-scan view in which you want to display or hide the TCG curve.

2. On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

3. In the UT Settings dialog box, select the TCG tab.
4. Select or clear the Display check box to respectively display or hide the TCG
curve.

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The TCG curve appears as a red line at the top of the corresponding A-scan view.

TCG curve TCG curve area

Figure 4‑31 Example of an A‑scan view showing the TCG curve

4.7.3 Constructing a TCG Curve for a Phased Array Group

Use the controls in the TCG tab of the Phased Array Calibration dialog box to
construct a TCG curve for a phased array group. For angle beam inspections such as
in weld applications, you need to use the following procedure to calculate the TCG
gain independently for each beam.

To construct the phased array TCG curve

1. Enable the TCG function by proceeding as follows:

a) On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

b) In the UT Settings dialog box, click the TCG tab, and then select the Enable
check box.

2. On the component toolbar, click (Phased Array Calibration).

3. In the Phased Array Calibration dialog box, click the TCG tab.
4. In FocusPC, in a Side (B), End (D), or Sector (S) view (depends on probe skew),
position the Reference (red) and Measurement (blue) cursors respectively above
and below the reflector indication (see Figure 4-18 on page 101).
5. Place the probe on the calibration block and perform a first scan on the calibration
block above one reference reflector.

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During the scan, FocusPC draws the amplitude envelope (blue line) obtained for
each beam and constructs a curve (red line) representing the maximum amplitude
of the envelope (see Figure 4-32 on page 115).

Figure 4‑32 TCG curve construction example after a first scan

6. In the Phased Array Calibration dialog box, proceed as follows:

a) Set the Reflector amplitude parameter to the amplitude (%) at which you
wish to see the reference reflector maximum amplitude appear.
b) In the Tolerance parameter, enter the acceptable amplitude tolerance.
c) Click Clear Trace to clear the data from the previous scan.
7. Perform a new scan on the calibration block.
8. To use this reflector to create a TCG curve point, click Add TCG Point.
FocusPC adjusts the gain for each beam to obtain the required reference
amplitude for the depth corresponding to the inspected reflector.
9. Repeat steps 4 to 8 for each reference reflector used to construct the complete TCG
curve.

TIP
You can review the TCG gain for each beam on TCG tab in the UT Settings dialog
box.

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4.7.4 Importing/Exporting a TCG Curve

The TCG curve points can be easily imported and exported directly from the FocusPC
interface using simple .csv (comma-separated values) files using the following
procedure.

To import a TCG file into FocusPC

1. Create the .csv file containing the different TCG points for a particular group (see
Figure 4-33 on page 116):
a) Generate a line for every beam using the following structure where the
Positions are defined in mm and the Gains are in decibels. Every number is
entered with a three digits decimal precision.
Position 1, Gain 1; Position 2, Gain 2;....
b) Add comments at the end of every line as long as they are preceded by a “#”
symbol.
c) Save or rename the file as a .csv file to be interpreted correctly.

Figure 4‑33 The TCG points import text

2. On the Dashboard, select the group to which you want to apply the TCG points.
3. On the TCG tab of the UT Settings dialog box:
a) Click Import.
b) Select the .csv file containing the TCG points.
c) Click Open.

NOTE
The TCG point positions may differ from the ones defined in the .csv file if the
positions defined in the .csv file do not match the available TCG point-position slots.

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4.8 Working with Layouts

In FocusPC, a layout is an organization of two or more views appearing in the

window. FocusPC offers a set of ten layouts available on the Dashboard for quick
selection. (See Figure 4-34 on page 117.)

Figure 4‑34 The set of ten layouts

4.8.1 Applying a Template Layout File

FocusPC comes with a certain number of template layout files each containing up to
ten layouts that can be selected to modify the current display. Additional layout files
can also be created and defined as template layout files (see “Saving Layout Files and
Defining New Template Layouts” on page 119 for more information).

To apply a template layout

1. On the Dashboard, click to select a Template layout file.

2. From the list of available layouts, choose the most appropriate (see Figure 4-35 on
page 118).

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Figure 4‑35 The list of available layouts

4.8.2 Displaying or Changing the View in a Pane

After a layout has been selected, the views can be modified in order to customize the
display.

To change the view in a pane

1. Activate the pane you want by clicking anywhere in it.

2. Click on the component toolbar (or press SHIFT+ENTER) to open the

Contents dialog box (see Figure 4-36 on page 118).

Figure 4‑36 Example of the Contents dialog box

3. Double-click the view type to display it in the active pane.

4. If required, activate another pane by clicking it, and then select the data and the
view to be displayed in this pane.

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The right section is updated to list the view types that are possible with the
selected data type.

4.8.3 Saving Layout Files and Defining New Template Layouts

The list of template layouts described in “Applying a Template Layout File” on
page 117 matches the content of the layout folder. The default layout folder is
[Installation Folder]\FocusPCnnn\Layouts Files. You can customize the list of
predefined layouts by adding, removing, or modifying the layout files and their
subfolders.

IMPORTANT

Do not modify or delete the following layout files:

[Installation Folder]\FocusPCnnn\Layout Files\Viewer.rst

[Installation Folder]\FocusPCnnn\Layout Files\Composite\Composite.rst

[Installation Folder]\FocusPCnnn\Layout Files\Weld\Weld.rst

Changing or deleting the Viewer.rst file prevents the FocusPC Viewer edition from
starting up. If this occurs, reinstall FocusPC to fix the problem.

To save a set of ten customized layouts

1. On the main menu bar, click File > Save As.
2. In the Save As dialog box that appears (see Figure 4-37 on page 120), proceed as
follows:
a) Select Displays Setup (*.rst) in the Save as type box.
b) Enter the File Name for the .rst file.
c) Click Save.

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Figure 4‑37 The Save As dialog box

4.9 Working with the Readings

FocusPC computes reading values for various parameters for analyzing ultrasonic
data. Readings are calculated using cursor, zone, or acquisition parameters and can be
displayed at the top of a view (see Figure 4-40 on page 123).

4.9.1 Reading Management

You can define four groups of readings using the readings Information Groups
dialog box (see Figure 4-38 on page 121). You can access the Information Groups
dialog box by double-clicking in the reading zone at the top of a view.

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The most frequently used readings are organized by categories under Favorite
Readings in the Information Groups dialog box. Each category has a limited number
of readings with short names. The categories and lists of available readings are the
same for each of the four groups and for all view types.

More readings are available from the Information Groups dialog box when Expert
mode is activated (see “Expert Mode” on page 79 for details).

Figure 4‑38 The Information Groups dialog box — Favorite Readings categories

The reading configuration is saved in an .rst file that is included by default in the .fps
file (see “File Formats” on page 80 for details).

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4.9.2 Reading Examples

The following readings, illustrated in Figure 4-39 on page 122, provide useful
numerical values for an indication’s amplitude and position within the inspected part:

A(r)
The amplitude (%) at the reference cursor position.
D(r)
The true indication depth (always between zero and the part thickness) at the
reference cursor position.
T(r)
The thickness at the reference cursor position.
U(r)
The position of the reference cursor on the ultrasonic axis (expressed in time of
flight [µs], half path [mm] or true depth [mm]).

U A T
Figure 4‑39 Illustration of the A, D, T, and U readings

The following readings provide useful information for corrosion applications:

ML(r)
Material loss (%) at the reference cursor position
T(Zmin)
Minimum thickness inside the zone
S(ZMin)
Position of the minimum thickness inside the zone on the scan axis
I(Zmin)
Position of the minimum thickness inside the zone on the index axis

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Zone

Figure 4‑40 An example of corrosion readings

When you position the pointer over a reading, a tooltip appears, providing a useful
definition of the reading (see Figure 4-41 on page 123).

Figure 4‑41 Example of a reading tooltip

You can display all readings in all views. However, a value only appears when the
measurement can be computed in the view. For example, with an A-scan view, the
amplitude value can be computed and displayed but not a zone value (see Figure 4-42
on page 123).

Empty reading

Figure 4‑42 An example of an empty reading

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4.9.3 Hiding or Showing Readings at the Top of a View

You can quickly hide or show readings configured to appear at the top of a view.

To hide or show a specific reading group at the top of a view

1. Select the view you want to modify.

2. On the component toolbar, select , , , or to hide or show a specific

reading group.

To hide or show all the readings at the top of a view

1. Right-click the title bar of the view.
2. In the shortcut menu, select or clear Show Info Group.

4.10 Working with Gates

The following steps describe how to configure the gates. This procedure must be
independently performed for every group. For reference information on the Gates
tab, refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual.

To define gates

1. On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

2. If not already done, display an A-scan view on the active pane.
3. In the UT Settings dialog box, click the Gates tab and proceed as follows:
a) Position the vertical reference and measurement cursors on the ultrasonic
axis, by double-clicking and double-right-clicking, so as to determine the
starting position and length of the gate.
b) Position the horizontal reference cursor on the amplitude axis so as to
determine the detection threshold level of gate 1.
c) Click Set Gate button.
d) Select the check box to the left of the corresponding gate to enable the creation
of a data group, thereby enabling recording of the position and amplitude of
the C-scan data.
e) Select the POS B ‑ POS A check box to enable the creation of a data group
monitoring the position difference between Gates A and B.

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4.10.1 Gate Adjustments

You can adjust the position and the width of a gate. In the A-scan, this is done by
dragging-and-dropping a part of the gate line. The mouse pointer changes depending
on where you click the gate line, and indicates the task that you can perform (see
Table 4 on page 125 for details).

Table 4 Moving and resizing a gate using the mouse

Task Pointer Action

To resize a gate Drag-and-drop the end of the gate line

To move a gate Drag-and-drop the middle part of the gate

line

To move a gate vertically Press and hold the SHIFT key, and then
only drag-and-drop the middle part of the gate
line

To move a gate Press and hold the CTRL key, and then
horizontally only drag-and-drop the middle part of the gate
line

You can precisely configure the gates by clicking , and then using the parameters
on the Gates tab of the UT Settings dialog box (see Figure 4-43 on page 125).

Figure 4‑43 The Gates tab of the UT Settings dialog box

4.10.2 Gate Synchronization

Synchronizing gates means that the start position of a gate depends on the start
position of another gate. For example, when gate B has a start position of 10 mm and
is synchronized with gate A, gate B starts 10 mm on the right of the start of gate A.

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Synchronizing gates is useful, for example, in an immersed inspection where the

distance between the probe and the inspected part fluctuates in time. Using gate I to
detect the interface echo, and then synchronizing gate A on gate I ensures that gate A
always captures echoes from the same position range in the immersed inspected part.

You can only synchronize the position of a gate with the position of the previous gate.
For example, gate A can only be synchronized with gate I, gate B can only be
synchronized with gate A and so forth.

To synchronize a gate on another gate

1. To synchronize the A-scan starting position on gate I, set Synchro. to Echo (On I/)
on the Digitizer tab of the UT Settings dialog box.
2. To synchronize other gates, set Link to the desired value on the Gates tab of the
UT Settings dialog box.
When FocusPC acquires data, you can also specify a negative start position for a gate
that is synchronized on another gate. This allows you to create anticausal or
presynchronization detection. This feature is useful when you need to detect a weak
echo appearing just before a strong echo. Presynchronization is possible because the
FOCUS PX can generate up to 10 µs of signal prior to a gate. Note that while more
than one pair of gates can use presynchronization, you cannot synchronize a gate to a
synchronized gate that has a negative start position.

4.10.3 Gates in Analysis Mode

You can also adjust the gate position and size in Analysis mode. The modified data is
saved in a companion file (.A01). You can easily come back to the original gate
parameter values by right-clicking the title bar of the view and then selecting Restore
Initial Gates on the shortcut menu.

NOTE
In Analysis mode, when you move a gate on an A-scan or S-scan view while the
ultrasonic axis is in true depth, the new gate position is calculated in true depth.
However, when you move the a gate on an A-scan view while the ultrasonic axis is
not in true depth, the new gate position is calculated in sound path.

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In Analysis mode, when programmed in Half-Path mode, the gated zone on the
S-scan is only for the current beam. The position of the gate limits are automatically
adjusted on the S-scan when you change the current beam (see Figure 4-44 on
page 127).

Current beam Current beam

Figure 4‑44 Automatic adjustment of the S‑scan gate position

4.10.4 Gates and Amplitude C-Scans

You can configure FocusPC to acquire data below the gate level by selecting the
Always record amplitude in acquisition option in the Preferences menu. This option
is activated (selected) by default. If this option is not selected, data under the gate
level will not be acquired.

To configure FocusPC to show data below the gate level in acquisition

1. Select File > Preferences.
2. Under C‑Scan on the General Settings tab, select the Always record amplitude
in acquisition check box.
If you are in Analysis mode after moving the gate, you can also configure FocusPC to
show this signal (see Figure 4-45 on page 128) by repeating the above procedure and
selecting the Always record amplitude in analysis check box.

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Showing data below gate Not showing data below gate

Figure 4‑45 Example of a C‑scan with and without data below the gate

4.10.5 Gate Usage Example

A water immersion inspection is a good way to illustrate the use of multiple gates (see
Figure 4-46 on page 128). Position and size gate I over the area where you expect to
find the echo from the part interface. Position gate A to cover the path inside the
inspected part without detecting the entry and back wall echoes. Finally, position and
size gate B over the area where you expect to find the back wall echo. In an immersion
inspection, the distance between the probe and the part often fluctuates. To
compensate for this fluctuation, the start position of gate A and gate B can be set to
automatically change according to the position of the echo detected in gate I. This
ensures that both gates constantly cover appropriate areas.

Immersed probe

Gate I tracks the echo of the part

interface

Gate A tracks echoes of defects in the Immersed part

part

Gate B tracks the echo of the back wall of

the part

Figure 4‑46 Example of gate usage in a water immersion inspection

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4.11 Working with the Alarms

The following procedure describes how to define the alarms. For reference
information on the Alarms tab of the UT Settings dialog box, refer to the FocusPC
Advanced User’s Manual.

To define the alarms

1. On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

2. On the Alarms tab of the UT Settings dialog box, proceed as follows:
a) In the Output line list, select the alarm output line.
b) Under Conditions, define the alarm condition by selecting the appropriate
options.
c) Repeat these steps for each alarm condition.
A set of indicators (see Figure 4-47 on page 129) appears in the status bar
representing the state of each alarm.

Figure 4‑47 Alarm state indicators

4.12 Working with the Firing Sequencer

The Firing Sequencer dialog box is used to modify the order in which the ultrasonic
beams are fired. For some applications, modifying the firing sequence can help reduce
the effects of ghost echoes due to high recurrence.

For a phased array setup with multiple focal laws and channels, the firing repetition
(recurrence) is very important to maximize the scanning speed without the presence
of interference echoes. This can be critical for immersion techniques with the presence
of signals coming from the water surface.

To activate the Firing Sequencer

1. On the component toolbar, click (UT Settings).

2. In the UT Settings dialog box, select Interleaved.

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3. On the component toolbar, click the Firing Sequencer button ( ).

The Firing Sequencer dialog box appears, which contains the list of all beams
included in the different groups.

Figure 4‑48 The Firing Sequencer (Interleave) dialog box

The following describes the buttons of the Firing Sequencer, which can be used to
modify the firing order of the different beams.

Default
Brings the firing sequence order back to the default sequence (Group 1 - Beam 1,
Group 1 -Beam 2, …, Group 2 - Beam 1, Group 2 - Beam 2, and so on).

Figure 4‑49 The Default button

2 Zones
Creates a firing sequence with interlacing pairs of beams within each group (see
example in Figure 4-50 on page 131).

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Figure 4‑50 Example of firing sequence with 2 Zones interlacing pairs

2 Z. All
Creates a firing sequence with interlacing pairs of beams within all groups (see
example in Figure 4-51 on page 131).

Figure 4‑51 Example of firing sequence with 2 Z. All interlacing pairs

Up
Moves the selected beam or group of beams up in the Firing sequences list.
Down
Moves the selected beam or group of beams down in the Firing sequences list.
Import
Allows you to import a .cfs file containing a firing sequence from a previously
exported configuration.

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Export
Allows you to save the current firing sequence to a .cfs file.

4.13 Working with the Conditional A-Scan

When the Conditional A-scan feature is activated, A-scans are only recorded when an
alarm has been triggered. This ensures that only A-scans of important areas are
stored, which enables much larger areas to be scanned in a single inspection.

To set the conditional A-scan

1. Click the Digitizer tab of the UT Settings panel, and then select the Conditional
check box. See Figure 4-52 on page 132.

Figure 4‑52 The Digitizer tab

2. Click the Alarms tab of the UT Settings dialog box, configure the alarms that will
trigger A-scans to be recorded. Three different alarms can be configured, all of
which will have the same effect. See Figure 4-53 on page 132.

Figure 4‑53 The Alarms tab

3. Click to start an acquisition.

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A-scans will only be recorded in the areas where an alarm was triggered, as seen
in the following figures: Figure 4-54 on page 133 and Figure 4-55 on page 133.

Figure 4‑54 Acquisition with full A‑scan recording

Figure 4‑55 Acquisition with conditional A‑scan recording

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5. Performing Acquisitions

To simplify scan configuration, FocusPC offers predefined scan types with typical
values. You only have to enter the inspected area’s dimensions and set the parameters
of your mechanical system. You can also modify the predefined scans as needed, or
define custom scans.

5.1 Working with the Different Scan Types

FocusPC has several types of available scans: One-line scan, Free running,
Bidirectional, Unidirectional, Helicoidal, Angular, and Custom.

These different scan types are explained in the following sections.

5.1.1 One-Line Scan

The One-line scan type is a linear scan. One position encoder is used to determine the
position during the acquisition.

The linear scan (see Figure 5-1 on page 136) is unidimensional and proceeds along a
linear path. The only settings that must be provided are the limits along the scan axis
and the spacing between acquisitions.

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Probe Probe movement axis

X

Figure 5‑1 Linear scan

Operation mode
The One-line scan operates as follows:

1. The scanner proceeds to the position set in the Scan: Start box of the Scan tab.
2. The scanner then moves on the scan axis to the position set in the Scan: Stop box,
while performing data acquisition.
3. Data acquisition is performed at every interval set in the Scan: Resolution box.
4. The scan is finished when the scanner has reached the position set in the Scan:
Stop box.

Description of the Scan tab

When you select One‑line scan type, the Scan tab in the Scan and Mechanical
Settings dialog box contains the set of options shown in Figure 5-2 on page 136.

Figure 5‑2 The Scan tab for the One‑line scan type

The Scan tab for a One-line scan contains the same options as for a Bidirectional scan
except that it does not include the settings for the index axis.

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5.1.2 Free Running Scan

With the Free Running scan, data acquisition is performed at the rate specified in the
PRF box of the Digitizer tab (UT Settings dialog box). For FocusPC, the data is
recorded at only one position, at the origin of the scan and index axes.

Description of the Scan tab

When you select the Free Running scan type, the Scan tab contains no options or
parameters (see Figure 5-3 on page 137).

Figure 5‑3 The Scan tab for Free Running scan

5.1.3 Bidirectional Scan

The Bidirectional scan type is a bidimensional surface scan (also known as a raster
scan) in which two encoders are used to determine the position on the scan and index
axes during acquisition.

A surface scan uses two axes: (1) the scan axis, which is the mechanical axis of the
scanning lines, and (2) the index axis, which is the mechanical axis of movement
between the scanning lines. At the end of each scan along the scan axis, an increment
is added to the position along the index axis. Data acquisition for bidirectional scans is
carried out in both the forward and backward directions along the scan axis, as shown
in Figure 5-4 on page 138.

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Scan axis

Probe

Index axis

Figure 5‑4 Bidirectional surface scan

The user must supply the limits of the inspection surface as well as the spacing
between acquisitions. Figure 5-5 on page 139 shows the scan-axis and index-axis
parameters in the reference system of the scanning mechanism.

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Scan Axis

Start

Index dimension
Pixel

Index resolution
Index axis

End
Scan resolution

Scan dimension

Scanned surface as displayed on the C-scan

Figure 5‑5 Reference system of the scanning mechanism

Operation mode
The Bidirectional scan operates as follows:

1. The scanner proceeds to the Scan: Start position set on the Scan tab.
2. The scanner proceeds to the Index: Start position set on the Scan tab.
3. The scanner then moves on the scan axis to the position set in the Scan: Stop box,
while performing data acquisition.
4. Data acquisition is performed at every interval of the Scan: Resolution value set
on the Scan tab.
5. The scanner moves on the index axis for the distance set in the Index: Resolution
box.
6. The scanner moves to the Scan: Start position, while performing data acquisition.
7. The scanner moves on the index axis for the distance set in the Index: Resolution
box.
8. The scanner then moves on the scan axis to the position set in the Scan: Stop box,
while performing data acquisition.

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9. Steps 4 to 7 are repeated until the scanner has reached the position set in the
Index: Stop box. Then, the scan is finished when the scanner has reached the
position set in the Scan: Stop box (if the index axis has an odd number of steps),
or when it has reached the Scan: Start position (if the index axis has an even
number of steps).

5.1.4 Unidirectional Scan

The Unidirectional scan type is a bidimensional surface scan (also known as a raster
scan) in which two encoders are used to determine the position during the
acquisition.

A surface scan uses two axes: (1) the scan axis, which is the mechanical axis of the
scanning lines, and (2) the index axis, which is the mechanical axis of movement
between the scanning lines. At the end of each scan along the scan axis, an increment
is added to the position along the index axis. Data acquisition for unidirectional scans
is only carried out in one direction along the scan axis, as shown in Figure 5-6 on
page 141. This type of scan is typically used with scanning mechanisms that have
backlash (free play) in the scan direction.

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Scan axis

Probe

Index axis

Figure 5‑6 Unidirectional surface scan

The user must supply the limits of the inspection surface as well as the spacing
between acquisitions (see Figure 5-5 on page 139).

Operation mode
The Unidirectional scan operates as follows:

1. The scanner proceeds to the Scan: Start position set on the Scan tab.
2. The scanner proceeds to the Index: Start position set on the Scan tab.
3. The scanner then moves on the scan axis to the position set in the Scan: Stop box,
while performing data acquisition.
4. Data acquisition is performed at every interval of the Scan: Resolution value set
on the Scan tab.
5. The scanner returns to the Scan: Start position. No data acquisition is performed
during this step.

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6. The scanner moves on the index axis for the distance set in the Index: Resolution
box.
7. The scanner then moves on the scan axis to the position set in the Scan: Stop box,
while performing data acquisition.
8. Steps 4 to 6 are repeated until the scanner has reached the position set in the
Index: Stop box. Then, the scan is finished when the scanner has reached the
position set in the Scan: Stop box.

Description of the Scan tab

When you select the Unidirectional scan type, the Scan tab contains the set of options
shown in Figure 5-7 on page 142.

Figure 5‑7 The Scan tab for Unidirectional scan type

The Scan tab for a Unidirectional scan type contains the same options as for a
Bidirectional scan type. For a description of these options, see “Bidirectional Scan” on
page 137.

5.1.5 Helicoidal Scan

The Helicoidal scan type is similar to the Bidirectional scan. However, with this type
of scan, the inspection mechanism performs a helicoidal movement around a cylinder.

A Helicoidal scan uses two axes: (1) the scan axis, which is the mechanical axis of the
scanning lines (rotation), and (2) the index axis, which is the mechanical axis
movement between the scanning lines (axial).

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Operation mode
In a Helicoidal scan, the two mechanical axes are driven by two motors controlled by
an external control unit or axes of a manually driven scanner.

The Helicoidal scan type operates as follows:

1. The scanner proceeds to the position set in the Scan: Start and Index: Start boxes
of the Scan tab.
2. The scanner then moves on the scan axis and index axis to the position set in the
Scan: Stop and Index: Stop boxes, while performing data acquisition. There is
simultaneous motion on both axes.
3. Data acquisition is performed at every interval of the Scan: Resolution value set
on the Scan tab.
4. In a Helicoidal scan, the scan axis is projected along the circumference of the
cylinder. The Scan: Start and Scan: Stop values refer to the circumference origin
point (0), in distance units or angular units.
5. A signal or a modulo can be used to reset the scan-axis encoder to the Scan: Start
value after each complete rotation.
6. The scan is finished when the scanner has reached the position set in the Index:
Stop box.

Description of the Scan tab

When you select the Helicoidal scan type, the Scan tab contains the set of options
shown in Figure 5-8 on page 143.

Figure 5‑8 The Scan tab for Helicoidal scan

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The Scan tab for a Helicoidal scan type contains the same options as for a
Bidirectional scan type. For a description of these options, see “Bidirectional Scan” on
page 137. This tab also contains three additional option buttons and one additional
parameter:

Deg/Index
This box defines the distance along the scan axis (in degrees) that is completed for
each index increment. The Index axis inspection speed value is then deduced
from this value, the Scan axis inspection speed, and the Index resolution.
The chosen Deg/Index value is usually slightly larger than 360 degrees, to obtain
sufficient overlap between adjacent Helicoidal scan lines.
Scan reset
Click one of these option buttons to select one of the options used to reset the
scan-axis encoder to position zero:
None: scan-axis encoder is never reset.
Modulo: scan-axis encoder is reset to position zero when a maximum value
(modulo) corresponding to the Scan: Stop value is reached.
Top Turn: a synchronization signal is used to reset the scan-axis encoder to the
Scan: Start value.

5.1.6 Angular Scan

The Angular scan type is a two-dimensional surface scan, where the scan and index
axes do not correspond to the orientation of the mechanical axes, such as in the
Bidirectional and Unidirectional scans. Instead, the scan and index lines form a
certain angle with the orientation of the mechanical axes (see Figure 5-9 on page 145).
Two position encoders are used to determine the position during the acquisition.

A surface scan uses two axes: (1) the scan axis, which is the mechanical axis of the
scanning lines, and (2) the index axis, which is the mechanical axis displacement
between the scanning lines. At the end of each scan along the scan axis, an increment
is added to the position along the index axis. With this scan type, the mechanical axes
work together in such a way as to produce the desired scanning pattern. Data
acquisition for angular scans is carried out in both the forward and backward
directions along the scan axis.

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is
n ax
Sca

e
Prob Angle Mechanical axis
Mechanical axis

is
x ax
Inde

Figure 5‑9 Angular surface scan

Operation mode
The Angular scan type operates as follows:

1. The scanner proceeds to the position set in the Scan: Start and Index: Start boxes
of the Scan tab.
2. The scanner then moves on the scan axis, according to the specified angle, to the
position set in the Scan: Stop box, while performing data acquisition.
3. Data acquisition is performed at every interval of the Scan: Resolution value set
on the Scan tab.
4. The scanner moves on the index axis, according to the specified angle, for the
distance set in the Index: Resolution box.

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5. The scanner moves on the scan axis, according to the specified angle, to the Scan:
Start position, while performing data acquisition.
6. The scanner moves on the index axis, according to the specified angle, for the
distance set in the Index: Resolution box.
7. The scanner then moves on the scan axis, still according to the specified angle, to
the position set in the Scan: Stop box, while performing data acquisition.
8. Steps 4 to 7 are repeated until the scanner has reached the position set in the
Index: Stop box. Then, the scan is finished when the scanner has reached the
position set in the Scan: Stop box (if the index axis has an odd number of steps),
or when it has reached the Scan: Start position (if the index axis has an even
number of steps).

Description of the Scan tab

When you select the Angular scan type, the Scan tab contains the set of options
shown in Figure 5-10 on page 146.

Figure 5‑10 The Scan tab for Angular scan type

The Scan tab for an Angular scan type contains the same options as for a
Bidirectional scan type. For a description of these options, see “Bidirectional Scan” on
page 137. This tab also contains an additional parameter, which is required for this
scan type:

Angle
This box is used to set the angle that the scan line forms with the orientation of the
mechanical axis.

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5.1.7 Custom Scan

Selecting the Custom scan type automatically opens the Load Custom Program File
dialog box (see Figure 5-11 on page 147). This dialog box is used to select and load a
special type of scan predefined in a .gal file.

Figure 5‑11 The Load custom program file dialog box

5.2 Working with Encoders

You can use one or more encoders in your setup to measure the position of the probe
on the scanned area.

FocusPC supports different types of encoders (see “Encoder Types” on page 147).

You need to calibrate each encoder (see “Calibrating an Encoder” on page 150).

5.2.1 Encoder Types

FocusPC supports various types of encoders. You can select the encoder type on the
Encoders tab of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box (see Figure 5-12 on
page 148).

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Figure 5‑12 Selecting the encoder type on the Encoders tab

Each encoder input on your acquisition unit has two channels, A and B, enabling a
dual-channel encoder for a quadrature reading of the resolution.

The available encoder types are as follows:

Clock Dir
Select this option when you use a stepper controller and its documentation
specifies that the position output signal is a clock/direction type (5 V pulse for the
position/speed and 5 V signal for the direction).
Quadrature
Select this option when the attached encoder (5V TTL output) is a dual-channel
output encoder. The channels are generally named A and B. When the encoder is
rotating clockwise (from left to right in Figure 5-13 on page 149), channel B
follows channel A with a 90-degree delay. When the encoder is rotating
counterclockwise, channel A follows channel B with a 90-degree delay. In this
way you can determine if the rotation is clockwise or counterclockwise. The
decoder counts one step each time it detects a rising or a falling edge on
channel A or channel B. This means that if the real encoder resolution is
1000 steps/revolution, the final resolution with the quadrature reading is
4000 steps/revolution.

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Channel A
Channel B

Quadrature reading
Normal reading

Figure 5‑13 Quadrature and normal reading of the resolution

Up
The decoder only reads channel A and increments the counter even if the encoder
is turning counterclockwise. The final resolution is the real encoder resolution.
Down
The decoder only reads channel A and decrements the counter even if the encoder
is turning clockwise. The final resolution is the real encoder resolution.
Clock/Dir Up
The decoder only reads channel A and increments the counter. When the signal of
channel B (direction) is high, the acquisition stops to prevent overwriting the data
while you move the probe back and the counter is decremented.
Clock/Dir Down
The decoder only reads channel A and decrements the counter. When the signal
of channel B (Dir) is high, the acquisition stops to prevent overwriting the data
while you move the probe back and the counter is incremented.
Quad Up
The decoder reads channel A and channel B in quadrature mode (4 times the
encoder resolution) and increments the counter when the encoder rotates
clockwise. When the encoder rotates counterclockwise, the acquisition stops to
prevent overwriting the data and the counter decrements.
Quad Down
The decoder reads channel A and channel B in quadrature mode (4 times the
encoder resolution) and decrements the counter when the encoder rotates
counterclockwise. When the encoder rotates clockwise, the acquisition stops to
prevent overwriting the data and the counter increments.

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5.2.2 Calibrating an Encoder

You need to calibrate an encoder to validate, fine-tune, or determine its resolution.
The resolution of an encoder is the number of steps corresponding to a traveled
distance of 1 mm or 1 in., or 1 degree.

Perform the following procedure for each encoder that you are using.

To calibrate the encoder of an axis

1. On the component toolbar, click the Scan and Mechanical Settings button ( ).
2. In the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box, click the Scan tab, and then
perform the following tasks:
a) In the Type box, select the appropriate scan type for your application. Do not
select Free running as this type does not support encoders.
b) In the Unit box, select the appropriate linear or angular units.
3. On the Encoders tab (see Figure 5-14 on page 150), proceed as follows:
a) In the Type box, select the type of your encoder (see “Encoder Types” on
page 147).
b) Click Calibrate.

Figure 5‑14 The Encoders tab of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box for
an Encoded ‑ 2 axis scan type

4. While in the Calibration of Encoder dialog box (see the example shown in
Figure 5-15 on page 151), proceed as follows:
a) Optionally, move the required encoder (or the mechanical parts attached to
the encoder) to a known position on the axis, and then click Set.
This operation sets the current position to the value of the Preset value box
that has been specified on the Scan tab.

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b) Click Set Begin.

c) Move the encoder over a defined distance on the axis in the direction that is
considered positive. Use the Movement buttons to move the scanner.
d) Click Set End.
e) In the Set Distance box, enter the traveled distance, and then click Set
Distance.
The resulting encoder resolution appears in the Calculated resolution box.
f) When needed, click Clear to reset the parameter values, and then return to
step 4.a.
g) Click OK to apply the calculated encoder resolution.

Figure 5‑15 The Calibration of Encoder dialog box for encoder 1 on the scan axis

5.3 Defining the Automatic Savings Options

On the Options tab of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box, you can use the
File Naming Options section to configure the way the data files will be saved at the
end of the inspection (see Figure 5-16 on page 152).

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Figure 5‑16 The File Naming Options dialog box

To configure the automatic saving options

1. Set Directory to the folder where the files are to be saved.
2. Set Root Name to the name of the data files to be saved.
— The @ character inserts a counter that will automatically increase the file
name by one. For example, entering test@ will generate test0.fpd, test1.fpd,
test2.fpd, and so on.
— The # character adds the desired number of digits for repeats. For example,
typing test@## will generate test000.fpd, test100.fpd, test200.fpd, and so on.
— If a file exists (for example, test000.fpd) then the new file will be saved under
the following name: test001.fpd (first repeat of the test000.fpd file name).
3. Set Counter value to configure the start value of the counter that is inserted in the
file name with the @ character.
4. Select the Automatic, Prompt, or Confirm saving mode.
— The Automatic mode will save the data files without asking for a
confirmation.
— The Prompt mode will deactivate the automatic file naming and ask you to
enter the data file name at the end of every acquisition.
— The Confirm mode will ask you to confirm the file name defined in the Root
name before saving the data file.

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6. Basic Analysis Using FocusPC

After the data acquisition is complete, FocusPC can be used to analyze the resulting
data files. This section describes the basic analysis in FocusPC, demonstrating how
you can manage data files to create simple and convenient reports making the
inspection results easy to understand.

6.1 Opening Data Files in FocusPC

This section describes how to open FocusPC data files and merge data files in order to
combine multiple inspection data to a single file that can then be analyzed and
described in a simple report.

The Open dialog box (see Figure 6-1 on page 154) is used to select and load an
ultrasonic data file as well as the other data types that can be linked to this file.

To open a FocusPC data file

1. In the main menu, click File > Open.
2. Make sure that Data Files is selected in the upper-left section of the Open dialog
box.
3. Select the appropriate File Content and Processing options (see the descriptions
below for more information on these options).
4. Click Open.

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Figure 6‑1 The Open dialog box

The File Content and Processing areas of the Open dialog box contain the following
options:

File Content
You can use the check boxes under File Content to select the appropriate
associated files (for a description of the file types, see “File Formats” on page 80).
For example, an .fpd data file can be saved with an .A01 data file resulting from
analysis processing. You can then either open the original data alone (.fpd file), or
open the original data along with the data modified in analysis (.fpd and .A01
files). The principle of associated files allows the original data to remain intact
after the data file is saved.
Only the file types that are associated with the .fpd file when saving the data can
be selected. The dimmed file types are not available.
Processing
You can use the check boxes under Processing to select optional calculations to be
performed on the file to be opened. After opening the file, FocusPC calculates the
selected processing options and adds the associated data groups to the file.

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— The Merge all check box performs the same calculations as the corresponding
toolbar command ( ).
— The Merge by group check box performs the same calculations as the
corresponding toolbar command ( ).

6.2 Working with the Indication Table and Report Component

The indication table is a key feature of FocusPC (see Figure 6-2 on page 155). Use the
indication table to gather flaw indication information and to create an HTML report.
The following are basic steps for using the indication table:

• Use the cursors and the Zone tool to highlight an indication.

• Open the indication table and add an indication.
• Add comments and extra readings to the table.
• Customize the report.
• Preview and produce the HTML report.

Figure 6‑2 The indication table

NOTE
FocusPC automatically saves the indication table in the display setup file (.RST) and
automatically saves the numerical reading indication information contained in the
indication table in an attribute file (.R01).

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6.2.1 Adding an Indication to the Indication Table

Use the Zone tool and the indication table to quickly select the area corresponding to
an indication and create a record for the indication.

TIP
You can customize the sizing settings in the Preferences dialog box on the General
Settings tab under Flaw‑Sizing Settings.

To add an indication to the indication table

1. Select a layout with views that best illustrate the indications in the part (see the
example shown in Figure 6-3 on page 156).

Figure 6‑3 Example of the indication table, the cursors, and the Zone tool used to
document an indication

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2. On the component toolbar, click the Indication Table button ( ) to display the
Indication Table dialog box.
The first line of the table indicates the current value of the selected readings.
3. Position the Reference and Measurement cursors to mark the indication.
4. Using the Zone tool, draw a zone around a flaw indication.
5. In the Indication Table dialog box, select a predefined reading category (see
Figure 6-4 on page 157) to determine the readings that appear in the table.

Figure 6‑4 Selecting a predefined reading category in the indication table

TIP
You can select a different reading category for each indication table entry. The
indication image is a snap shot of the data display views taken when you click
. When you want to put the emphasis on the defects characteristics,
configure the views accordingly before clicking .

6. In the Indication Table dialog box, click .

The selected flaw indication is added to the Indication Table list and a red
marking rectangle labeled with the indication number appears on the view.
7. As needed, repeat steps 3 to 6, to mark other indications.
8. You can add a comment to an indication:
a) In the Indication Table dialog box, select the indication to which you want to
add a comment by clicking the corresponding line in the table.
b) Click Additional Info.
c) In the Custom Readings dialog box that appears (see Figure 6-5 on page 158),
type your comment for that indication in the Comment box.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

The comment then appears in the Comments section of the report for the
selected indication.

Figure 6‑5 Adding a comment and an additional reading to an indication

9. You can also include additional readings in the indication table (see Figure 6-5 on
page 158):
a) In the Indication Table dialog box, select the line for the Entry# = Auto
indication.

b) In the Custom Readings dialog box, click .

c) In the Readings Selection dialog box that appears, select the check box of one
or more readings that you want to add to the selected indication, and then
click OK.
The selected readings appear in the Custom Readings dialog box, under
Additional readings.

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NOTE
Additional readings appear only for new indications, not for those already entered in
the indication table.

6.2.2 Producing an Ultrasonic Inspection Report

When you have completed the indication analysis using the indication table, you can
produce an HTML ultrasonic inspection report from the Indication Table dialog box.
This report includes the following elements for each defined group of the
configuration:

• Setup information
• Inspected part information
• Scanned area information
• Content of the indication table
• Views for each entry of the indication table
• Customized information

To produce an ultrasonic inspection report

1. Gather indication information in the indication table (see “Adding an Indication
to the Indication Table” on page 156).
2. In the Indication Table dialog box, click General info to open the General
Information dialog box, and customize the HTML report (see Figure 6-6 on
page 160):
a) In the Report Header box, type your report header information.
The text appears at the beginning of the report (see Figure 6-7 on page 160).
b) In the Footnote box, type your report footnote information.
The text appears in the Notes section at the end of the report (see Figure 6-8
on page 161).

c) Click .
d) Type the custom information label in the Field box and the corresponding
value in the Value box.

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The added user fields appear in the second section from the top of the report
(see Figure 6-7 on page 160).
e) Click OK.

Figure 6‑6 Example of the General Information dialog box

Report header text

User field text

Figure 6‑7 Example of a report header and user fields

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Report footer text

Figure 6‑8 Example of a report footer

3. Back in the Indication Table dialog box, click Preview.

The HTML report appears in your Internet browser.
4. Review the report.
5. In the Indication Table dialog box, click Print.
6. In the Print dialog box, select the printer, and then click Print to print the report.

6.2.3 Changing the Logo in the Inspection Report

The Olympus logo appears by default at the top of the inspection report. You can
change the logo.

TIP
Ensure that you change the logo before creating the report. Otherwise, the old image
will appear in the report. You then need to delete the report file (.r01) and add the
indications again.

To change the logo appearing at the top of the inspection report

1. Create a small image of the logo that you want to see at the top of the inspection
report.

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DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

TIP
Use a logo image that is about the same size as the Olympus logo image (200 pixels
wide by 38 pixels high).

2. In the [Installation Folder]\FocusPCnnn folder, proceed as follows:

a) If you do not want to lose the Olympus logo file, rename the logo.jpg file to
Olympus_logo.jpg.
b) Save the image of your logo in the JPEG format using the logo.jpg file name.
Your logo appears at the top of the next inspection report that you generate.

NOTE
For more information on the advanced features of this software and detailed menu
descriptions, refer to the FocusPC Advanced User’s Manual.

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List of Figures

Figure i-1 Example of a fully automated inspection system ........................................... 5

Figure i-2 FocusPC / FOCUS PX system example ............................................................ 6
Figure i-3 FocusPC / FOCUS PX system diagram ............................................................ 7
Figure i-4 An example of a system using FocusControl to enable automation ............ 8
Figure i-5 An example of a custom data presentation using FocusData ....................... 8
Figure i-6 A sample program provided with FocusControl ......................................... 10
Figure i-7 A sample program provided with FocusData ............................................... 11
Figure 1-1 The Startup Selection dialog box ..................................................................... 15
Figure 1-2 The About FocusPC dialog box indicating the FocusPC edition ............... 16
Figure 1-3 The HASP security hardware key ................................................................... 16
Figure 1-4 The Startup Selection dialog box with no security hardware key .............. 17
Figure 1-5 Missing hardware key message box ............................................................... 17
Figure 1-6 Configuring power options for Windows 7 and 8 ........................................ 18
Figure 1-7 The FOCUS PX Configuration Tool ................................................................ 20
Figure 1-8 The network connections .................................................................................. 21
Figure 1-9 Selecting Properties ........................................................................................... 21
Figure 1-10 Selecting Configure ........................................................................................... 22
Figure 1-11 The settings in the Advanced tab .................................................................... 23
Figure 1-12 Running Command Prompt in the administrator role ................................ 24
Figure 1-13 Entering commands in the Command Prompt window ............................. 25
Figure 1-14 The Network configuration dialog box .......................................................... 25
Figure 1-15 The IP Address conflict dialog box ................................................................. 26
Figure 1-16 An example Troubleshooting dialog box ....................................................... 26
Figure 1-17 The Startup Selection dialog box ..................................................................... 28
Figure 1-18 Example of the Select Device Configuration dialog box .............................. 29
Figure 1-19 The Configuration Selection dialog box ......................................................... 30
Figure 2-1 FocusPC user interface example ...................................................................... 32
Figure 2-2 The component toolbars ................................................................................... 34
Figure 2-3 Components of the Dashboard dialog box .................................................... 38
Figure 2-4 Example of a document window containing three views ........................... 39

List of Figures 163

DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure 2-5 The set of ten layouts ......................................................................................... 40

Figure 2-6 The UT Settings dialog box .............................................................................. 40
Figure 2-7 The Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box ............................................... 41
Figure 2-8 The View Properties dialog box ....................................................................... 41
Figure 2-9 Floating (top) and docking (bottom) of a dialog box ................................... 42
Figure 3-1 The main elements of the FocusPC user interface ........................................ 45
Figure 3-2 Switching between modes ................................................................................ 47
Figure 3-3 The mode indicated in the status bar .............................................................. 47
Figure 3-4 The Group area in the Dashboard ................................................................... 48
Figure 3-5 Example of two scans from two different groups ......................................... 49
Figure 3-6 The Scan tab of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box .................... 50
Figure 3-7 An example illustration of a probe and a wedge .......................................... 51
Figure 3-8 Raster scan plate inspection with 0° probe skew .......................................... 53
Figure 3-9 Plate inspection with 90° probe skew ............................................................. 54
Figure 3-10 Rivet inspection with 0° probe skew ............................................................... 54
Figure 3-11 Weld inspection using a scanner with 90° and 270° probe skews .............. 55
Figure 3-12 Disc or wheel inspection with 0° and 180° probe skews .............................. 56
Figure 3-13 Tube weld inspection with 90° and 270° probe skews ................................. 57
Figure 3-14 The set of ten layouts ......................................................................................... 57
Figure 3-15 Selecting predefined layouts ............................................................................ 58
Figure 3-16 Example of an active A-scan view ................................................................... 58
Figure 3-17 Example of the title bar of an active view ...................................................... 59
Figure 3-18 Example of data view types for phased array data ...................................... 61
Figure 3-19 Example of an A-scan view .............................................................................. 62
Figure 3-20 Example of Uncorrected (top-left), USound corrected (top-right), and VC
sectorial (bottom-left) scans .............................................................................. 63
Figure 3-21 Example of ultrasonic views [Top (C), Side (B), and End (D)] with probe
skew angle of 90° ............................................................................................... 65
Figure 3-22 Example of Side (B) view .................................................................................. 66
Figure 3-23 Example of Top (C) view .................................................................................. 67
Figure 3-24 Example of End (D) view .................................................................................. 68
Figure 3-25 Example of a Polar view ................................................................................... 69
Figure 3-26 Example of Scrolling B-scan view ................................................................... 70
Figure 3-27 Example of amplitude scrolling view ............................................................. 71
Figure 3-28 Example of the shortcut menu for a view ...................................................... 72
Figure 3-29 Examples of shown echo dynamic curves and rebound .............................. 74
Figure 3-30 Example of reading groups appearing at the top of a view ........................ 77
Figure 3-31 Example of gate A in an A-scan ....................................................................... 78
Figure 3-32 Example of gate A in an S-scan ........................................................................ 78
Figure 3-33 Gate colors .......................................................................................................... 79
Figure 3-34 The categories of readings in the Expert mode ............................................. 79
Figure 3-35 FocusPC file organization ................................................................................. 81

164 List of Figures

 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure 4-1 The Open dialog box ......................................................................................... 84

Figure 4-2 The Save As dialog box ..................................................................................... 85
Figure 4-3 Adding or selecting a group ............................................................................ 86
Figure 4-4 The Group Creation Wizard dialog box ......................................................... 87
Figure 4-5 The Calculator dialog box ................................................................................ 88
Figure 4-6 Selecting the probe ............................................................................................ 89
Figure 4-7 Specifying the inspected part geometry ......................................................... 89
Figure 4-8 Specifying the inspected part material ........................................................... 90
Figure 4-9 Specifying the wedge ........................................................................................ 90
Figure 4-10 Example of the Beam display info tab in the Calculator .............................. 92
Figure 4-11 The Phased Array Parameters Source dialog box ......................................... 93
Figure 4-12 The Group Creation Wizard dialog box (conventional UT) ........................ 95
Figure 4-13 The Part Definition dialog box ......................................................................... 96
Figure 4-14 Selecting the UT group in the Dashboard ...................................................... 96
Figure 4-15 The Group Creation Wizard dialog box (TOFD) .......................................... 98
Figure 4-16 Selecting Active Group ..................................................................................... 99
Figure 4-17 The message for deleting a group ................................................................. 100
Figure 4-18 Example of cursors around an indication in a Sector (S) view ................. 101
Figure 4-19 Curves for the beam delay calibration .......................................................... 101
Figure 4-20 Red line appearing between tolerance lines after calibration ................... 103
Figure 4-21 Sensitivity example after a first scan ............................................................ 104
Figure 4-22 Curves for the sensitivity calibration ............................................................ 105
Figure 4-23 The General tab of the UT Settings dialog box for a UT group ................ 105
Figure 4-24 Selecting the probe in the UT Settings dialog box ...................................... 106
Figure 4-25 Calibrating with the Time / Half Path dialog box ....................................... 107
Figure 4-26 The Predefined Weld and Weld Parameters (for Type 1) dialog boxes ... 109
Figure 4-27 Example of a weld overlay with three flips ................................................. 110
Figure 4-28 The TCG tab of the UT Settings dialog box ................................................. 111
Figure 4-29 The A-scan before adding the first TCG point. ........................................... 112
Figure 4-30 The A-scan after adding the first TCG point ............................................... 113
Figure 4-31 Example of an A-scan view showing the TCG curve ................................. 114
Figure 4-32 TCG curve construction example after a first scan ..................................... 115
Figure 4-33 The TCG points import text ........................................................................... 116
Figure 4-34 The set of ten layouts ...................................................................................... 117
Figure 4-35 The list of available layouts ............................................................................ 118
Figure 4-36 Example of the Contents dialog box ............................................................. 118
Figure 4-37 The Save As dialog box ................................................................................... 120
Figure 4-38 The Information Groups dialog box — Favorite Readings categories .... 121
Figure 4-39 Illustration of the A, D, T, and U readings ................................................... 122
Figure 4-40 An example of corrosion readings ................................................................ 123
Figure 4-41 Example of a reading tooltip .......................................................................... 123
Figure 4-42 An example of an empty reading .................................................................. 123

List of Figures 165

DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Figure 4-43 The Gates tab of the UT Settings dialog box ................................................ 125
Figure 4-44 Automatic adjustment of the S-scan gate position ..................................... 127
Figure 4-45 Example of a C-scan with and without data below the gate ..................... 128
Figure 4-46 Example of gate usage in a water immersion inspection ........................... 128
Figure 4-47 Alarm state indicators ..................................................................................... 129
Figure 4-48 The Firing Sequencer (Interleave) dialog box .............................................. 130
Figure 4-49 The Default button ........................................................................................... 130
Figure 4-50 Example of firing sequence with 2 Zones interlacing pairs ....................... 131
Figure 4-51 Example of firing sequence with 2 Z. All interlacing pairs ....................... 131
Figure 4-52 The Digitizer tab .............................................................................................. 132
Figure 4-53 The Alarms tab ................................................................................................. 132
Figure 4-54 Acquisition with full A-scan recording ........................................................ 133
Figure 4-55 Acquisition with conditional A-scan recording .......................................... 133
Figure 5-1 Linear scan ........................................................................................................ 136
Figure 5-2 The Scan tab for the One-line scan type ....................................................... 136
Figure 5-3 The Scan tab for Free Running scan .............................................................. 137
Figure 5-4 Bidirectional surface scan ............................................................................... 138
Figure 5-5 Reference system of the scanning mechanism ............................................ 139
Figure 5-6 Unidirectional surface scan ............................................................................ 141
Figure 5-7 The Scan tab for Unidirectional scan type ................................................... 142
Figure 5-8 The Scan tab for Helicoidal scan .................................................................... 143
Figure 5-9 Angular surface scan ....................................................................................... 145
Figure 5-10 The Scan tab for Angular scan type .............................................................. 146
Figure 5-11 The Load custom program file dialog box ................................................... 147
Figure 5-12 Selecting the encoder type on the Encoders tab .......................................... 148
Figure 5-13 Quadrature and normal reading of the resolution ..................................... 149
Figure 5-14 The Encoders tab of the Scan and Mechanical Settings dialog box for an
Encoded - 2 axis scan type .............................................................................. 150
Figure 5-15 The Calibration of Encoder dialog box for encoder 1 on the scan axis .... 151
Figure 5-16 The File Naming Options dialog box ............................................................ 152
Figure 6-1 The Open dialog box ....................................................................................... 154
Figure 6-2 The indication table ......................................................................................... 155
Figure 6-3 Example of the indication table, the cursors, and the Zone tool used to
document an indication .................................................................................. 156
Figure 6-4 Selecting a predefined reading category in the indication table ............... 157
Figure 6-5 Adding a comment and an additional reading to an indication .............. 158
Figure 6-6 Example of the General Information dialog box ......................................... 160
Figure 6-7 Example of a report header and user fields ................................................. 160
Figure 6-8 Example of a report footer .............................................................................. 161

166 List of Figures

 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

List of Tables

Table 1 Olympus data acquisition instruments compatible with FocusPC ............... 14

Table 2 The toolbar buttons ............................................................................................... 34
Table 3 File formats supported by FocusPC ................................................................... 80
Table 4 Moving and resizing a gate using the mouse ................................................. 125

List of Tables 167

DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

168 List of Tables

 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

Index

A B-scan view, Scrolling 70

.A01 file 80 buttons
acquisition Calculator 38
performing 135 Edit view properties 41
speed 38 FFT 36
unit selection 28 Firing Sequencer 35
activating/deactivating expert mode 80 Gain 36
adding mode 38
comments to indications 157 predefined layouts 38
conventional UT group 94 Scan Settings 34
alarms definition 129 thumbtack 42
analysis C
edition 15
.cal file 80
mode 46
Calculator
views
button 38
End (D) 67
description 49
Polar view 68
calibration
Side (B) 65
beam delays 100
Top (C) 66
conventional UT group 105
angle beam probes 55
phased array, purpose 100
Angular scan 144
sensitivity 103
A-scan view 61
TCG curve 114
attributes files 80
CAUTION signal word 2
automated inspection system 7
.cfs file 131
axes
changing the mode 46
index axis 137, 140
color palette commands 75
scan axis 137, 140
commands
B color palette 75
basic data view types 60 data 72
beam delay calibration 100 display mode 74
Bidimensional scan 137 display preferences 75
Bidirectional scan 137, 139 show 73

Index 169
DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

ultrasound axis 75 views 118

comments, adding to indications 157 docking dialog box 42
component toolbar 34 document windows 38
configuration
E
instrument connection 19
network card 23 Edit view properties button 41
PA inspection 86 editions 15, 28
selection 30 Analysis 15
connection Inspection 15
instrument 19 End (D) view 67
multiple instruments 27 expert mode, activating/deactivating 80
cursors 59 F
D Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) button 36
DANGER signal word 2 files
Dashboard button 34 attributes 80
Dashboard, FocusPC 37 default folders 81
changing mode 46 management 153
data opening 153
commands 72 organization 81
files 80 report 80
view 108 setup 33
types 58, 60 files, data 80
deactivating/activating expert mode 80 merging 155
default processing 154
folders 81 files, setup
setup files 85 default setup files 85
defining display setup 80
alarms 129 hardware setup 80
gates 124 Firing Sequencer button 35
TCG curve 111 floating dialog box 42
deleting FOCUS PX 6, 14
channel message box 100 FocusControl 9
group 99 FocusData 10
dialog boxes folders, default 81
docking 42 .fpd acquisition data file 80
Load Custom Program File 147 .fps file 80
Open 84 Free Running scan 137
Scan and Mechanical Settings 41 G
UT Settings 40
Gain button 36
View Properties 41
.gal file 147
display
gates
mode commands 74
adjustment 125
preferences commands 75
analysis mode 126
setup files 80
defining gates for UT 124
TCG curve 113

170 Index
 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

definition 77 multiple connections 27

in amplitude C-scan 127 interface 31, 45
in S-scan view 78
L
synchronization 125
usage example 128 .law file 80
grid 59 layout 33, 39
groups linear scan 135
adding a conventional UT group 94 Load Custom Program File dialog box 147
calibrating a conventional UT group 105 loading hardware setup parameters 83
deleting a group 99 M
description 47
management, files 153
pitch-catch 92
manual, instruction 1
renaming a group 99
merging data files 155
switching between 98
Microsoft Windows, supported editions 13
TOFD 97
minimum computer requirements 13
trough transmission 92
mode
H Analysis 46
hardware button 38
setup files 80 changing 46
setup parameters, loading 83 Inspection 46
HASP security hardware key 16 Setup 46
helicoidal scan 142 moving a gate 125
hiding N
readings 124
network card, configuration 23
TCG curve 113
NOTE signal word 3
HTML reports 155
notes, information signal words 3
I
O
important information 1
Olympus technical support 4
IMPORTANT signal word 3
One-line scan 135, 136
index axis 137, 140
Open dialog box 84
indication table 155
opening data files 153
adding indications 156
operating systems 13
button 36
orientation conventions, probe 51
inspection
overview, software principles 31
angle beam PA configuration 86
edition 15 P
mode 46 .pac file 80
installation, software 17 phased array calibration
Windows 7 18 beam delays 100
Windows 8 18 purpose 100
instruction manual 1 usage of the component 100
instrument usage of the module
configuration 19 sensitivity 103
connection 19 TCG curve 114

Index 171
DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

pitch-catch 92 types 135

Polar view 68 Unidirectional 140, 141
predefined layouts 58 Scan and Mechanical Settings
button 38 dialog box 41, 49
PRF, Free Running scan 50 Scan Settings button 34
principles, software 31 Scan tab
probe Angular scan 146
orientation convention 51 Free Running scan 137
skew definition 52 Helicoidal scan 143
procedures See specific procedure entries One-line scan 136
processing data files 154 Unidirectional scan 142
producing inspection report 159 Scrolling views 69
data view types 60
R
Scrolling B-scan 70
.r01 files 80 Scrolling strip view
raster scan 137, 140 amplitude 71
readings position 71
display 124 sectorial views 62
examples 122 security hardware key 27
hiding 124 selecting custom sequence 147
management 120 sensitivity calibration 103
renaming a group 99 setup
reports 155 creation 83
file 80 default files 85
producing 159 file 33
requirements, minimum computer 13 .fps files 83
resizing gate 125 mode 46
.rst files 80 mode TOFD, calibration 107
ruler 59 saving 84
S working with setup files 83
shortcut menu, view 71
safety
show
signal words 2
See also display
symbols 1
commands 73
saving setup 84
readings 124
scales 59
Side (B) (analysis view) 65
scan 49
signal words
Angular 144
information notes 3
axis 137, 140
IMPORTANT 3
Bidimensional 137
NOTE 3
Bidirectional 137, 139, 140
TIP 3
Free Running 137
safety 2
helicoical 142
CAUTION 2
linear 135
DANGER 2
One-line 135, 136
WARNING 2
raster 137, 140
skew, probe definition 52

172 Index
 DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

sleep mode 18 U
software ultrasound axis commands 75
installation 17 Unidirectional scan 140, 141
Windows 7 18 use, intended 1
Windows 8 18 using TOFD calibration in setup mode 107
principles 31 UT Settings
software development kits (SDK) 7 button 34
software version ii dialog box 40
speed, acquisition 38
splash screen 28 V
splitting views 33 view
starting FocusPC 27 about 58
status bar 47 A-scan 61
strip charts 71 cursors 59
strip views, Scrolling data 108
amplitude 71 displaying views 118
position 71 grid 59
support information, technical 4 Polar (analysis view) 68
switching between groups 98 ruler 59
symbols, safety 1 Scrolling views 69
shortcut menu 71
T
types 60
tab, Scan zoom bar 59
Angular scan 146 View Properties dialog box 41
Free Running scan 137 volumetric views 64
Helicoidal scan 143 data view types 60
One-line scan 136 End (D) 67
Unidirectional scan 142 Side (B) 65
TCG Top (C) 66
curve construction 114
defining a TCG curve 111 W
displaying or hiding the curve 113 WARNING signal word 2
technical support 4 warning symbols
thumbtack function 42 general 2
TIP signal word 3 shock hazard 2
title bar 58 warranty information 3
TOFD weld overlay, definition 108
adding and configuring group 97 Windows
calibration 107 firewall 19
setup mode 107 sleep mode 18
group 97 supported editions 13
in setup mode 107 windows, document 38
toolbars, component 34 working with groups 85
Top (C) (analysis view) 66
Z
trough transmission 92
zoom bar 59

Index 173
DMTA-20092-01EN, Rev. D, February 2017

174 Index