GeoTest User Manual

► Please download the latest GeoTest version:

► www.geophysik-dr-rauen.de/download/geotest/GeoTest_Setup.exe

Geophysics - Dr. Rauen

GeoTest user manual ● page 1 of 45

Contents
Contents......................................................................................................................................................................... 2
0 Getting started.............................................................................................................................................................. 3
1 Introduction - What is GeoTest?................................................................................................................................... 5
2 Supported hard- and software...................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Computer................................................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.1 How to locate the installed COM port(s)?......................................................................................................6
2.2 Geoelectric equipment.............................................................................................................................................. 6
2.3 GPS Device............................................................................................................................................................... 8
3 Installation of GeoTest................................................................................................................................................. 9
3.1 Installation................................................................................................................................................................. 9
3.2 Registration............................................................................................................................................................... 9
3.3 Hardware key (USB dongle)...................................................................................................................................... 9
4 Using of GeoTest....................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.1 The main form......................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.1.1 The main menu............................................................................................................................................ 11
4.1.1.1 File..................................................................................................................................................... 11
4.1.1.2 Set..................................................................................................................................................... 12
4.1.1.2.1 Setup cables and electrode chains.................................................................................................12
4.1.1.2.2 Setup electrodes and data header.................................................................................................14
4.1.1.2.2.1 Data header............................................................................................................................. 14
4.1.1.2.2.2 Profiling.................................................................................................................................... 14
4.1.1.2.2.3 Mapping................................................................................................................................... 19
4.1.1.2.2.4 Moving electrodes / GPS.........................................................................................................21
4.1.1.2.2.5 Electrodes positions................................................................................................................ 22
4.1.1.2.2.6 Remote electrode positions.....................................................................................................24
4.1.1.2.2.7 Custom made electrode configurations...................................................................................25
4.1.1.2.2.8 Setting electrodes and data header.........................................................................................25
4.1.1.2.3 Setup measurement parameters....................................................................................................26
4.1.1.2.4 Setup program options...................................................................................................................28
4.1.1.3 Measure................................................................................................................................................ 30
4.1.1.3.1 Measure contact resistances..........................................................................................................30
4.1.1.3.2 Measure start / stop........................................................................................................................ 32
4.1.1.4 Data.......................................................................................................................................................33
4.1.1.5 Device................................................................................................................................................... 33
4.1.1.6 Extra...................................................................................................................................................... 34
4.1.1.6.1 Monitoring....................................................................................................................................... 34
4.1.1.6.1.1 Monitoring - "Start / stop".........................................................................................................34
4.1.1.6.1.2 Monitoring - "Read"................................................................................................................. 34
4.1.1.6.1.3 Monitoring - "Save".................................................................................................................. 35
4.1.1.6.1.4 Monitoring - "Status"................................................................................................................35
4.1.1.6.1.5 Monitoring - "List".................................................................................................................... 35
4.1.1.6.2 Simulation mode............................................................................................................................. 36
4.1.1.6.3 Registration.................................................................................................................................... 36
4.1.1.6.4 Language........................................................................................................................................ 36
4.1.1.7 Help .......................................................................................................................................................36
4.1.2 Pseudo sections........................................................................................................................................... 37
4.1.2.1 Profiling mode: pseudo-depth sections.................................................................................................37
4.1.2.2 Mapping mode: horizontal slices...........................................................................................................38
4.1.3 Data list........................................................................................................................................................ 39
4.1.4 Electrode switch box.................................................................................................................................... 41
4.1.5 Frequency settings....................................................................................................................................... 41
4.1.6 Transmitter................................................................................................................................................... 41
4.1.7 Receiver....................................................................................................................................................... 41
4.1.8 Measurement status..................................................................................................................................... 41
4.1.9 Battery power............................................................................................................................................... 41
4.2 Roll-on procedure.................................................................................................................................................... 42
4.3 The GeoTest command line parameters.................................................................................................................44
5 About GeoTest........................................................................................................................................................... 45
5.1 Software agreements.............................................................................................................................................. 45
5.2 Program and manual version.................................................................................................................................. 45
5.3 Program author....................................................................................................................................................... 45
6 References................................................................................................................................................................. 45

GeoTest user manual ● page 2 of 45

0 Getting started

GeoTest is a powerful software tool for data acquisition and controlling of geoelectric equipment using
many electrodes, so called multi-electrode-geoelectrics. Profiling and mapping measurements are
possible, as well as custom made measurements. Moving arrays with GPS position measurements and
completely automatic monitoring measurements are supported also.

Additional inversion software (not part of GeoTest) is used for Geoelectric Tomography.

See chapter 1 for an introduction.

Safety requirements
Be careful in using geoelectric equipment. Geoelectric devices can produce high
electrical voltages of 200 Volts or more.

Be always sure to switch the power off, when you are touching electrodes or
power outlets to avoid injuries.

Read carefully the instruction manuals of the producer of your geoelectric

hardware.

GeoTest user manual ● page 3 of 45

First steps to prepare GeoTest

Step 1 ● Download GeoTest and install

Please first download the latest GeoTest version using the download link displayed on the
title page. After downloading, you have to install the software on your computer. See
chapter 2.1 for computer requirements. See chapter 3.1 for more details about installing
the software.

Step 2 ● Run GeoTest

When GeoTest is launched the first time, a form named "Getting started" will appear and will lead the
user through the following main settings and adjustments, see chapter 4.1.1.2.4.

Step 3 ● Registrate and un-lock GeoTest

After the installation of GeoTest, the program runs in a limited ("locked") mode. In this mode, the
maximum number of electrodes is limited. The user has to registrate the program to
get a legal licence and to have access to all features. The producer of GeoTest will
dispose a registration key. The chapter 3.2. describes the registration procedure.
Optionally, the program GeoTest may be un-locked by the use of a hardware key
(USB dongle).

Step 4 ● Set measurement device

Now the user has to configure the connected devices. He has to configure the computer interface(s) also
to allow communication between the software and the hardware. See chapter 2.2.1. (geoelectric
equipment) and chapter 2.3 (GPS device). All configurations up to this step are done only once after
installation of GeoTest on a new computer.

Step 5 ● Set cable configuration

The last important step is to configure the cables (electrode chains). The user has to set the number of
electrode chains he wants to use. Up to 10 cables are possible. The user has also to set the electrodes
addresses available with each cable. These settings will be displayed in the "setup cables and electrode
chains" window (see chapter 4.1.1.2.1).

Step 6 ● Set Standard profile parameters

The user may set standard values for the data header and the profile parameters. See chapter 4.1.1.2.2.

Step 7 ● Set Standard measurement parameters

The user may set standard values for the measurement parameters. See chapter 4.1.1.2.3.

GeoTest user manual ● page 4 of 45

1 Introduction - What is GeoTest?

GeoTest is a software for controlling geoelectric equipment in combination with many electrodes. This
type of geoelectric measurement is called "Multielectrode Geoelectrics". Using two-dimensional or
three-dimensional inversion techniques additionally for evaluation, this method is known for "Geoelectric
Tomography" or ″Electrical Resistivity Tomography″ (ERT).

Geoelectric tomography is a modern type of 4-point geoelectrics. "4 point" means, for one measurement
always four electrodes are used. Two electrodes serve as current emitting electrodes. These are usually
named A and B (or C1 and C2). Two other electrodes measure the potential difference (= voltage). These
are the M and N electrodes (or P1 and P2).

The measurements can be done in two principal different orientations. GeoTest supports both:

 Profiling: this means measurements, where the electrodes are set along a linear profile on the
earth surface. The measurement profile is 1-dimensional (e.g. in x direction) and the result will be
a 2-dimensional depth section, which is a plane in e.g. x- and z-direction.

 Mapping: the electrodes are set along a 2-dimensional grid or along several parallel profiles on
the earth surface. The measurements are done in a 2-dimensional plane (e.g. in x- and y-
directions). The result will be a 3 dimensional block containing x-, y- and z- coordinates.

The following pictures show some explanation of the technique to measure one geoelectric profile
("profiling").

This is a sketch of the multielectrode

measurement principle. The
displayed example explaines the so
called Wenner configuration. The
electrode distances are integer
multiples of the minimum electrode
separation. Expanding the spread (=
distance of current emitting
electrodes A and B) results in an
increasing investigation depth.

The graphical display of the

measured resistiviteis is called
"Pseudo Section". "Pseudo" ex-
presses, that this is not yet a real
depth section. The pseudo section
will be shown during the measure-
ment on the computer display.

To progress from the "pseudo"

section to the real depth section,
some 2-dimensional evaluation is
necessary. The evaluation includes
topography corrections and calibra-
tions. The shown depth section is
the result of the inversion program
Res2DInv.

For a further explanation of ERT describing the standard comfigurations like Wenner or Dipole-Dipole see
Berktold et al. (1997) or Friedel (1997). The investigation depth definition used in GeoTest is described in
Roy and Apparao (1971) and Barker (1989). Edwards (1977) introduced another definition of the
investigation depth. Newer configurations like the Multiple Gradient Array or the Full Range Gradient
Array″ are described in Dahlin & Zhou (2006) and in Zhou et al. (2020). See references.

GeoTest user manual ● page 5 of 45

2 Supported hard- and software

2.1 Computer

GeoTest runs on desktop or notebook PCs with Windows 95 (TM) or later operating systems. GeoTest
runs on 64 bit systems like Win 10 as well. Communication with the measurement device is done by a
serial (RS232) interface. This RS232 interface may be an original COM1 port or a driver emulated COM
port using an USB-to-serial adapter. In this case, please be sure to install the device driver software
before using the adapter. The computer hardware specifications are not critical. We recommend:
 Windows XP (TM) 32 bit version or later
 at least 512 MB RAM
 1 RS232 serial port or 1 USB port with an adapter USB-to-serial
 in case of GPS measurements: another RS232 serial port or USB-to-serial adapter.

2.1.1 How to locate the installed COM port(s)?

The following explanation refers to the German Windows XP operating system.

► ► ►

►
This example shows 3 installed COM ports: COM1 and COM2 are the standard COM ports of the desktop
computer. COM3 is an additionally installed USB-to-serial converter.

Geotest offers an automatic search for the suitable COM port with connected device (see following
chapter)

2.2 Geoelectric equipment

Erich Lippmann is the manufacturer of this geoelectric equipment consisting of

 "4-Point-Light hp" or "4-Point-Light 10W", a high power, low cost induced polarization (IP) earth
resistivity meter: for Schlumberger soundings to L/2 = 1 km, for mapping, monitoring, geoelectric
tomography, lab work, induced polarization measurements, archeology.
 "ActEle", active electrodes for electrical resistivity tomography with direct interface for 4point light.
Can be used to upgrade existing earth resistivity meters to state-of-the-art tomography systems.
Up to 255 electrodes are possible.

LGM
Erich Lippmann
Kornacker 4
94571 Schaufling
Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 9904 84076
Fax: +49 (0) 9904 8119802
email: [email protected]
http://www.l-gm.de/

GeoTest user manual ● page 6 of 45

Ground electrode GND

This device uses a ground electrode to reference the potential measurements. This ground electrode is
important and absolutely necessary. The ground electrode is not part of the measurement profile or grid.
It has to be placed somewhere nearby the instrument but not near besides one of the profile electrodes.
Be sure to realize low contact resistance of the ground electrode. Connect the ground electrode to the
"GND" input terminal of the instrument. In a laboratory environment without access to the earth surface,
you may connect the GND Terminal to the electrode A terminal.

Computer interface

This equipment needs one serial interface to the computer (RS232). This can be the standard COM1 port
(if the computer has one) or some driver emulated COM port, e.g. by using an USB-to-serial converter.
Due to our experience, the using of the standard COM1 port is without any problems. Not every USB-to-
serial converter works properly. If you get some communication problem, it is most likely a result of not
proper functioning of the USB-to-serial converter. You could fix this problem by either (1) updating the
USB-to-serial converter driver software or by (2) using another converter.

How to configure the computer interface and the hardware setup

Go to the GeoTest main menu → Set → Options → Getting started → Set measurement device.

Device version: The hardware version "4 point light

hp" (older version manufactured until 2007, grey
case, left side) uses a fixed serial baudrate of 1200.
The hardware version "4 point light 10W" (newer
version manufactured since 2007, red and black
case, right side) allows to choose a maximum serial
baudrate up to 38400.
Frequency set: The instruments uses 1 of 2 possible
frequency sets. The used frequency set should be
optimized to the actual mains frequency, because of
the maximum suppression of undesirable
electromagnetic coupling. Be sure to set the "mains
frequency" directly in the device menu also. ("4 point
light 10W" only)
Serial interface COM: (1) COM port number (e.g.
COM1 if you use the standard COM port of your
computer). If your computer does not have any COM
port, you have to install a COM port by an USB-to-
serial-converter before. The question mark ″?″ allows
an automatic search for the suitable COM port with
connected device. (2) COM baudrate. Be sure to set
the correct baudrate directly in the device menu also
("4 point light 10W" only).
Electrode switch boxes: "single channel" =
standard switch boxes mounted on a cable and
connected to the electrodes directly. "multi channel" =
combined switch boxes using 16 channels for 16
electrodes. Be sure to make the correct setting.
Single channel swich boxes will not work using the
"multi channel" setting.

Suggestion for a communication test: Connect the

device with the computer. Prepare the Device like
this: (1) Switch on the device by pressing the "RET"
and the "7" button on the device keyboard. (2) only
for device "4 point light 10W: set the correct frequency setting and the correct baudrate using the menu of
the device. (3) Switch to the remote mode ("RMT") by using the arrow keys. Press again "RET". If the
correct COM port and COM baudrate is set, you should be able to communicate with the device. You can
test the communication this way: Go to the GeoTest main menu → Device → Measuring device. Click →
Initialize form. If no error message appears, and the firmeware version is displayed, all is OK.

GeoTest user manual ● page 7 of 45

2.3 GPS Device

GeoTest supports position measurements done by a GPS device connected to one of the serial data
ports of the computer. The GPS device must be able to send one of the "NMEA-0183" protocols GGA,
GLL, RMC or LLQ. Example of a NMEA-0183 GGA sentence data line:

char position:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012
string:
$GPGGA,121357.00,5226.316328,N,01300.878187,E,2,07,1.1,35.59,M,45.19,M,5.2,0100*75

pos. contents
8 UTC of position fix in HHMMSS.SS format
18 Latitude in DD MM,MMMM format(0-7decimal places)
30 Direction of latitude N or S
32 Longitude in DDD MM,MMMM format(0-7decimal places)
45 Direction of longitude E or W
47 GPS Quality indicator; O= fix not valid; 1=GPS fix; 2=DGPS fix
49 Number of SVs in use, 00-12
52 HDOP
56 Antenna hight, MSL reference
62 M indicates that the altitude is in meters
64 Geoidal separation
70 M indicates that the geoidal separation is in meters
72 Age of differential GPS data record, Type 1. Null when DGPS not used
76 Base station ID, 0000-1023

How to configure the GPS computer

interface:
Go to the GeoTest main menu →Device
→GPS.
Use GPS: GPS position data are recorded and
displayed in the main form too. See chapter
4.1.1.2.2.4.
Serial setup: Set the correct COM port
parameters (port number, baudrate). If your
computer does not have any COM port or no
free COM port, you have to install a COM port,
e.g. an USB-to-serial-converter before.
NMEA sentence: GGA, GLL and RMC contain
position data in terms of latitude and longitude.
GGA contains additionally elevation data. LLQ
is a format containing position and elevation
data in meters.
System time: The computer system time may
be synchronized with the GPS time, which is
UTC = Universal Time Coordinated. The
Windows time zone information is used for
synchronization.
Reading: the actual position, elevation and time data is displayed. Latitude and longitude are displayed in
the original NMEA data format, which is not a decimal data format: "ddmm.m". The displayed example for
latitude means: 4840.8625 = 48 degrees 40.8625 minutes. GeoTest converts this format into degrees
with decimal fractions (example = 48.68104 degrees). The timeout value is used for the timeout error
handling. Using a GPS device, the GeoTest data format is slightly changed (longitude and latitude in
degrees instead of X and Y in meters). See chapter 4.1.3 for information about the used data format.

Suggestion for a communication test: Connect the GPS device with the computer. Switch on the
device and set the correct COM and NMEA values. Let the GPS device send data continuously to the
serial data port. If the correct COM parameters are set, you should see the continously updated positions
in the box "Reading".

GeoTest user manual ● page 8 of 45

3 Installation of GeoTest

3.1 Installation

Complete installation: The user should install the program and all its components using the default
settings. The default settings are:

 program folder = <Windows ProgramFilesDir>\GeoTest

 manual folder = <Windows ProgramFilesDir>\GeoTest\Manual

Updating: For updating the already installed program, it is sufficient to copy the files to be updated into
the <Windows ProgramFilesDir>\GeoTest folder. The already installed files will be overwritten.

The last settings will automatically be saved in the "GeoTest.ini" file, which is located in the folder:
<Windows user application data folder\GeoTest>.

3.2 Registration

After the first installation of the program, it will run in the limited modus. The
limitation refers to e.g. to the limited maximum amount of electrodes. This limited
modus is thought as a demo modus for interested people. Due to this limited
modus, a free copy and distribution of the program is prevented.

It is necessary to registrate the program after installation to get a legal licence.

The user should follow this procedure:

Open the menu "Extra" → "Registration"

Locate the "Computer ID". This is your computer fingerprint. You should tell us this number. You could
use the "-> eMail" button to open your eMail client and to send your computer ID by eMail directly.

I will calculate the "Key" and create the "User name" and will sent these to the user.

The user must type in the "Key" (or copy-paste) and the "User name". After pressing the "OK" button
the key will be saved in the INI file (if the key matches the computer ID). There is no need to type in again
the key after a later starting of the program, nor after a later updating of the program. Nevertheless, I
recommend the user to save this key in a hardcopy paper form for an own reference.

If the user wants to install GeoTest on another computer, again another registration procedure is
necessary.

3.3 Hardware key (USB dongle)

As an alternative to the registration and unlocking procedure (chapter

before), the use of a hardware key is optional. The hardware key is
available on request from the manufacturer of GeoTest.

GeoTest user manual ● page 9 of 45

 4 Using of GeoTest

The program GeoTest can be used in a normal way by double-left-clicking on the GeoTest
icon on the computer desktop. The main form, described in the following chapter 4.1, will
appear. Alternatively, the user may start GeoTest using the command line options
described in chapter 4.3.

4.1 The main form

Electrode
Main menu Pseudo switch box
sections

Frequency
settings

Transmitter

Receiver

Measurement
status

Battery
Data power
list
By clicking on the "mV" label,
the user can switch between
displaying of single voltage or
voltage list.

Display of battery status

(depending on the type
of hardware used):
- geoelectrical device
- external 12 V battery
- notebook

GeoTest user manual ● page 10 of 45

4.1.1 The main menu

4.1.1.1 File

"New": a new data file will be designed. All currently

measured data will be deleted and electrode and profile
settings, if set already, have to be set again.

"Read": a previously measured data file will be read and

displayed.

"Save": the current data file will be saved using the GeoTest
data format (ascii file with the extension *.tx0). All electrode
and cable parameters, settings, measured contact resistances,
error messages and measured data are saved. The saved
data format is explained in the "Data list" chapter.

"Read backup file": This feature restores formerly saved

backup data. The backup data will be saved automatically in
certain time intervals (e.g. 1 min) and additionally after
completing the measurement. The backup saving properties
are set in the "Set - options" menue (see chapter 4.1.1.2.4
Setup program options - more). Restoring backup data may
be very useful to save measured data after a e.g. computer
shut down due to low battery. This option is disabled, when
automatic backup in the "Set - options" menue is disabled.

"Read multiple data files and combine": This option allows

to read multiple data files. These files will be combined to one
single data file. This option is especially useful in:

(a) combining data files of a "roll-on" measurement project

or (b) combining data files, which were measured on the same
profile using different electrode configurations (e.g. Wenner
plus Dipole-Dipole).

"Save in 'Res1D' format": data is saved using the data format

of the 'Res1D' geoelectric inversion program (by 'GeoTomo
software', M. H. Loke, Malaysia, www.geoelectrical.com). This
is a 1 D inversion software for evaluation of Schlumberger or Wenner soundings.

"Save in 'Res2DInv' format": data is saved using the data format of the 'Res2DInv' geoelectric inversion
program (by 'GeoTomo software', M. H. Loke, Malaysia, www.geoelectrical.com). This is a 2 D inversion
software for evaluation of profile measurements of resistivities (done along 1 profile direction).

"Save in 'Res3DInv format": data is saved using the data format of 'Res3DInv' geoelectric inversion
program. (by 'GeoTomo software', M. H. Loke, Malaysia, www.geoelectrical.com). This is a 3 D inversion
software for geoelectrioc measurements done using 2 directional x-y-grids.

"Save in 'SensInv2D' format": This format is used by the 'SensInv2D' program of Geotomography, Dr.
Th. Fechner, Germany (www.geotomographie.de). This is a 2 D inversion software for evaluation of
profile measurements of resistivities (done along 1 profile direction).

"Save in 'ResistivityImager2D' format": This format is used by the 'ResistivityImager2D' program of

Geotomography, Dr. Th. Fechner, Germany (www.geotomographie.de). This is also a 2 D inversion
software for evaluation of profile measurements of resistivities (done along 1 profile direction) and is the
successor of 'SensInv2D'.

"Save in 'DC2dInvRes' format": This format is used by the 2 D inversion software 'DC2dInvRes' of
Thomas Günther (http://www.resistivity.net/dc2dinvres/).

"Save in 'DC2dTree' format": This format is used by the 2 D inversion software 'DC2dTree' of Thomas
Günther and Carsten Rücker (http://www.resistivity.net/dc2dtree/). This software enables the

GeoTest user manual ● page 11 of 45

reconstruction of resistivity on cylinder geometry (trees, borehole cores, subsoil probes) from impedance
measurements.

"Save in 'DC3dInvRes' format": This format is used by the 3 D inversion software 'DC2dInvRes' of
Thomas Günther (http://www.resistivity.net/dc3dinvres/).

"Save in 'EarthImager' format: This format is used by the EarthImager 2D and 3D inversion software of
Advanced Geosciences Inc., USA (www.agiusa.com). Two files will be saved: a *.URF file contains the
measured data and a *.TRN file ("terrain file") contains the topography information.

"Save in 'ZOND' format: This is the format is used by the inversion softwares 'ZondRes2D' and
'ZondRes3D', written by Alex Kaminsky (http://zond-geo.com). Files will be saved using the extension
'z2d' and 'z3d' respectively.

"Save in 'CSV TXT format': This is a simple CSV = "comma separated values" ascii text file. This file
could be used for user made correlations e.g. by Excel.

"Read measured data from device": data measured in the autonomous mode (MON, TOM) of the
geoelectrical device (without controlling by a computer) will be read from the device, transfered into the
GeoTest data format and displayed.

"Save parameter set to device": A list of currently set parameters (electrode configurations and
measurement settings) will be transferred into the geoelectrical device. Afterwards, the device can
measure tomography data in an autonomous mode, using this parameter set , without any computer for
controlling the measurement.

These 2 device options are enabled only when using the "4 Point Light 10W" geoelectrical device. See
the respective hardware manual for more details.

"Exit program": the program GeoTest will be closed. If there is unsaved data, the user will be asked to
save before closing the program.

4.1.1.2 Set

4.1.1.2.1 Setup cables and electrode chains

Electrode chains (electrode address #) means chains (or sequences) of active, addressed electrodes
controlled by a bus system. Each electrode address is unique and fixed physically to one switch box and
one electrode. The addresses may be in increasing or in decreasing order as well. The user can choose
electrode chains by checking the respective check boxes. The actual electrode numbers of each used
cable are shown and can be edited.

GeoTest user manual ● page 12 of 45

 Up to 10 cables are possible. The number of cables displayed here depends on the cable setup
settings. If the user wants to use another amount of cables, he has to do the cable setup again. He can
do this by pressing the "Set new user defaults" button. See chapter "0. Gettings started" and "Step 2.3 -
set cable configuration".

Electrodes used (transformed #): After clicking "Set", GeoTest will

calculate a series of electrode numbers from the active addresses. The
amount of active electrodes is displayed in "Electrodes". The electrode numbers will start with the number
given in "1st" (editable) and will end with the number written in "last".

Electrodes constants: The editable yellow boxes characterize the very 1st electrode in the profile or the
1st electrode in a mapping grid. These values remain constant even during a "Roll-on" measurement.
By clicking the Roll on button, the cable sequence will be changed in
that way, that the first cable will be placed after the last cable.
GeoTest will re-calculate the profile electrode numbers. See the
chapter ″4.2 Roll-on procedure″ for an explanation.
Defaults: The defaults values are: the electrode chains (active or not, adresses) and the electrode
constants (yellow fields).
Set new user defaults will ask for new settings, which will be stored as the new default values.
Reset will use the default values as the new actual settings.
Set will set update actual values.
Example: In the above example, 3 chains are used (chain 1,3 and 5) with the corresponding addresses:
1..20 + 41..60 + 81..100. These are 60 adresses. GeoTest will use 60 profile electrodes. The number of
the 1st electrode is given to 100, therefore the profile electrodes will cover the range from 100 to 159. The
1st profile electrode 100 corresponds to electrode address 1. The last profile electrode 159 corresponds to
electrode address 100. The electrode separation is set to 5 m. The start electrode is the number 1 at
profile position 1 * 5 m = 5 m. The 1 st profile electrode is located at 100 * 5 m = 500 m. The last profile
electrode is located at 159 * 5 m = 795 m.
Check electrode chains: The program
checks the cable connection to the
electrodes and the additionally the mean
cable resistance. The cable test will find e.g.
broken cables. During this test, all electrodes
may have contact to the earth as usually (=
grounded) or not, that means only with the
multi core cable connected to the instrument.
In the latter case the terminal ″A″ has to be
connected with the terminal ″GND″.

The results of the check routine will be saved

into the *.tx0 data file too.

GeoTest user manual ● page 13 of 45

4.1.1.2.2 Setup electrodes and data header

4.1.1.2.2.1 Data header

"Data header": The data name will be used as default for the data file name. Some additional comment
can be given to describe the measurement.
"Data folder": The default values for the disk drive and path (data folder), where data files will be stored.
The user may give another folder or file name during saving.

4.1.1.2.2.2 Profiling

This tab sheet gives access to all settings which are necessary for profiling measurements. A profile is a
linear sequence of electrodes situated along the Earth surface. All electrodes have to be equidistant.

An example: a sequence of 50 electrodes in 5 m separation gives a profile length of 250 m - 5 m = 245 m.

If the 1st electrode is situated at 5 m profile distance, the total profile distances will range from 5 m to 250
m. By default, the profile direction is defined as the X- direction. Y is perpendicular to the profile and Z is
the vertical coordinate.

GeoTest user manual ● page 14 of 45

"Electrodes"
"Electrodes constants": These parameters allways will remain constant, even applying "roll-on"
technique. The number and position of the start electrode and also the electrode separation will not be
changed during using the roll-on technique. The electrode separation gives the distance between two
adjacent electrodes. The Checkbox "equidistant" explains, if all the electrodes have the same separation
or not. Standard profile measurements are equidistant, custom made lists may not.
"Actual measurement": The actual 1st and last electrodes are set. Attention: The program uses
ascenting numbers of electrodes, even if the sequence of electrodes in the used electrode chains is not.
Example: 2 chains are used. Chain 1 contains electrodes 26 to 50. Chain 2 contains electrodes 1 to 25.
The program calculates 50 electrodes from 1 to 50. Electrode number 1 will be the original address 26.
Electrode number 50 will be the original address 25. If "Use roll on technique" is
checked, the number of the 1st "new" electrode will be read. See chapters
"Setup cables and electrode chains" and "Example 2: Wenner tomography
using Roll-on technique" in the extra document Manual_GeoTest_Tutorial.pdf
for detailed explanations.
"Configuration"
"Type": The type of measurement configuration (electrode configuration)
is set. For an explanation of the most common configurations see e.g.
Berktold et al. (1997). Dahlin & Zhou (2006) explain the Multiple Gradient
Array and Zhou et al. (2020) the Full-Range Gradient (FRG) Array. See the
sketch on the next side for an explanation of the most common
configurations. Some configurations use "far" or "remote" electrodes. A
remote electrode is not part of the addressed electrode chain. It is
connected directly to the respective terminal of the earth resistivity meter.
Ideally, the distance of the remote electrodes should be 10 times the
maximum electrode spread used. In case of "Pole-Dipole" or "Wenner half"
configurations, the current emitting electrode "B" is the remote electrode. In
case of "pole-pole" configuration, the current electrode "B" and also the
potential electrode "N" must be remote. In case of "SP" (self potential
measurements) only the voltage electrodes M and N are used, where the electrode N may be remote,
depending on the settings. The "Gradient" array also used 2 voltage field electrodes (M and N) and
supplies current using 2 remote electrodes A and B. The edit fields below show a sketch of the electrode
configuration. The white field shows the used electrodes, the blue field shows the "remote" or "far"
electrode(s). See the Pole-Dipole (= half Schlumberger) example left. The option "[custom made]" gives
access to user created electrode configurations. See the respective chapter following.

Remark: SP (self potential) measurements require the use of unpolarizable electrodes. SP

measurements will not work with standard steel electrodes.

Remark: Gradient measurements with remote A and B electrodes give no resistivity values, if the
remote electrodes are assumed to be infinitely far away. In this case, no geometry factor K is
possible. GeoTest is able to calculate resistivities when using the exact positions of the remote
electrodes.
"Spreads to be used": This box is active only if the Dipole-Dipole or
Schlumberger configuration is chosen. The spread is the length of the
electrode array from the first to the last electrode along the profile. The
spread depends on the actual settings of the dipole separations and the
dipole lengths. The program increases the spread by increasing dipole
separation and dipole length simultanously in different ways:
 only increasing spreads are used (=spreads which are longer than the previous used spreads).
This is the standard option.
 all possible spreads are used (= all dipole separation und length
combinations). This option may result in doubled data point.
 all spreads which differ by at least 1 electrode distance.
 all spreads which differ by at least 2 electrode distances.

"Spread direction": In case of the Wenner configuration, the "normal"

option means AMNB, "reverse" switches the direction of the configuration
to BNMA and "reciprocal" switches current- and potential dipoles to MABN.

GeoTest user manual ● page 15 of 45

"Dipole length, Levels" means the separation between the potential electrodes M and N and/or the
current electrodes A and B in units of electrode numbers. In the Wenner case, this separation is
commonly named "level". The dipole length equals "a" in the following figure.
"Dipole separation" means the separation of the current emitting dipole (A-B) or the nearest current
electrode (A or B) and the potential measuring dipole (M-N) in units of integer multiples of the dipole
length. In case of the ″multiple gradient array″ configuration, this factor means the separation between the
potential dipole (M- N) and the farer current electrode A or B (= s factor, see Dahlin & Zhou, 2006). The
dipole separation equals "n" in the following figure.
Most common geoelectrical configurations with 4 profile electrodes (Wenner, Schlumberger, Dipole-
Dipole), 3 profile electrodes and 1 remote electrode (Pole-Dipole) and 2 profile electrodes and 2 remote
electrodes (Pole-Pole):

GeoTest user manual ● page 16 of 45

Geoelectrical 4-point configurations (4 profile electrodes)
A,B = current electrodes
M,N = potential electrodes
a = electrode separation, level or dipole length
n = dipole separation
x = profile position (m)
z = pseudo depth (m)
fac = pseudo depth factor
rho = resistivity (Ωm)
U = voltage measured (V)
I = current applied (A)
U/I = resistance (Ω)
K = geometry factor (m)

Geoelectric profiling configurations

name A B M N configuration pseudo section resistivity

coordinates rho = U/I ∙ K
Reference

Wenner

A---M---N---B x = (xM+xN)/2 K = 2∙Π∙a

←a→ ←a→ ←a→ z = (xB-xA)∙fac
fac = 0.11
Berkold et al. (1997)

Schlumberger = Sounding

A-----M---N-----B x = (xM+xN)/2 K = Π∙n(n+1)∙a

←n∙a→ ←a→ ←n∙a→ z = (xB-xA)∙fac n > 3
fac = 0.125
Berkold et al. (1997)

Dipole-Dipole = Wenner beta for n=1

A---B-----N---M x = (xB+xN)/2 K = Π∙n(n+1)∙(n+2)∙a

←a→ ←n∙a→ ←a→ z = (xM-xA)∙fac
fac = 0.195
Berkold et al. (1997)

Multiple Gradient Array (GD, MG)

A---M---N-----B x = (xM+xN)/2 K = f(xA,xB,xM,xN)

←a→ ←a→ ←n∙a→ z = min[(xB-x),(x-xA)]∙fac
← (n+2)∙a → fac = 0.5 to 1

A-----M---N---B x = (xN+xM)/2
←n∙a→ ←a→ ←a→ z = min[(xB-x),(x-xA)]∙fac
← (n+2)∙a → fac = 0.5 to 1
Dahlin & Zhou (2006)

Full Range Gradient Array (FRG)

N---M-----A-------------B x = (xM+xN)/2 K = f(xA,xB,xM,xN)

←a→ ←n∙a→ z = (xA-x)∙fac
← (n+2)∙a → fac = 0.5 to 1

A---M---N-----B x = (xM+xN)/2
←a→ ←a→ ←n∙a→ z = min[(xB-x),(x-xA)]∙fac
← (n+2)∙a → fac = 0.5 to 1

A-----M---N---B x = (xM+xN)/2
←n∙a→ ←a→ ←a→ z = min[(xB-x),(x-xA)]∙fac
← (n+2)∙a → fac = 0.5 to 1

A-------------B-----N---M x = (xM+xN)/2
← (n+2)∙a → z = (x-xB)∙fac
←n∙a→ ←a→ fac = 0.5 to 1
Zhou et al. (2020)

Geometry factor K for all configurations

K = 2∙Π / (1/AM - 1/AN - 1/BM + 1/BN) with AM=│xA-xM│, AN=│xA-xN│, BM=│xB-xM│, BN=│xB-xN│
Berkold et al. (1997)

GeoTest user manual ● page 17 of 45

The button "Defaults" will reset levels and dipole separation to default values, depending on the used
measurement type. The button "Calculate max" will calculate the maximum possible level from the given
dipole separation, the number of available electrodes and the used measurement type. The button with
the question mark "?" will show the sketch of the most common configurations (see above).
"Default settings": Some pre-defined settings are available.
By choosing one of the options, the electrode configuration
and corresponding dipole separation lengths and levels will
be set to defaults. The measurement parameters may be set
1
to defaults too. 2
(1) This option will define a Wenner (A.M.N.B) configuration. 3
This type allows relatively high measurement voltages and 4
will give good results in disturbed areas as well. 5
6
(2) This option defines a dipole-dipole (A.B......N.M) con-
figuration. This configuration has some advantages compared to the Wenner configuration: better
horizontal resolution, increased data amount. The main disadvantage is reduced measurement voltages,
which maybe a problem in disturbed (urban) environments. By default, only increasing spreads are used
(see box "Spreads to be used").
(3) This option means the same as the above, but with using of more spreads than only increasing ones
(using of all spreads which differ at least by 1 electrode separation, see box "Spreads to be used"). This
results in a higher data amount as above.
(4) This option is the "half Schlumberger" configuration (A.....M.N) with one electrode (B) being very far
away. This configuration allows an increased depth penetration compared to 4 electrode configurations
(like Schlumberger A......M.N......B).
(5) This option results in an "averaged half Wenner" configuration. This means 2 complete measurement
runs with normal and inverse directions: electrode configurations A...M...N and N...M...A with the
electrode B being very far away. The electrode M remains in the middle of the spread and 2
measurements will be averaged and attached to this point. The resistivities will be averaged by using the
geometric mean [√ (a*b)], the phase angles are calculated by using the arithmetic mean [(a+b)/2]. The
pseudo sections displayed will show the mean values. This configuration delivers a pseudo section quite
similar to the inverted data section. Therefore this option may be useful in cases where no inversion is
available or wishable. See Hennig et al. (2005).
(6) This is the most suitable option for IP measurements. Wenner using special IP sorting is used. This
electrode configuration gives the maximum signal/noise ratio which is best for the expected low out-of-
phase voltages.

"Sorting of data"

By default, the data is sorted by data number. The user can change the type of sorting and also the
direction of sorting.

Remark: Sorting by increasing "A" can be very useful in case of Roll-On

measurements. See the Manual_GeoTest_Tutorial.pdf for an explanation of the roll-
on procedure. Using this type of sorting, a message will apear just below the
electrode switch box as soon as the first used cable (or electrode chain) could be un-plugged. The user is
then able to dis-assemble the first cable with the connected electrodes. He could plant the new electrodes
using the free cable as the extension of the profile. This could be done while the measurement is still
running. This procedure may save measurement time.
Remark: Sorting by "IP" means a special kind of sorting optimized for IP measurements. Electrodes are not
used as potential electrodes immediately after using them as current electrodes. During applying of current,
high self potentials may occur. These high self potentials may reduce data quality of following voltage
measurements.

"Reduce pseudodepths"
The user may confine the pseudodepth values of the data. By checking of
this option, the data will be reduced inside or outside the given depth
interval. Example: Data between 10 m and 20 m pseudodepths will be
reduced to 40 % of the original amount.

GeoTest user manual ● page 18 of 45

4.1.1.2.2.3 Mapping

This tab sheet controls mapping measurements. The electrodes are situated along a 2-dimensional grid
on the Earth surface. The grid can be a regular and rectangular grid with given X- and Y- spacings and X-
and Y- grid sizes. The grid can also be a part of a regular grid (e.g. U-shaped) or can be a circular grid.

"Electrode position (X-Y-Grid)"

This box controls the setup of the measurement grid. The yellow fields within the box " Start electrode
[1,1]" control the coordinates of the starting electrode. The grid sizes and also the spacings are given for
X- and Y- direction separately.

The box "Electrode positions" gives access to the type of the measurement grid.

"Regular loops" and "Regular zig-zag" describe a regular and rectangular grid of electrode positions.
The grid sizes and spacings for the X- and for the Y- direction are given. The examples show a grid of the
dimensions 7 x 7 electrodes, X grid index between 1 and 7, Y grid index between 1 and 7. Starting
electrode[1,1] is located at [1m, 1m]. Last electrode[7,7] is located at [7m, 7 m].

"Regular loops" "Regular zig-zag"

Last electrode at [7,7]

Start electrode at [1,1]

GeoTest user manual ● page 19 of 45

"Rectangle" "U-shaped"

"L-shaped" "Circle"

"From electrodes table": This option reads the electrodes positions from the list in the "electrodes
position" tab.This option may be useful for the setup of a custom made or not regular electrode grid.

Remark: The 3D inversion program Res3DInv does not support all electrode configurations,
which are possible in GeoTest.

Configuration

"Type" selects the electrode configuration type. Pole-Pole uses 2 field electrodes (A and
M) and additionally 2 "remote" electrodes (N and B). The actual positions of the "remote"
electrodes can be given in the tab sheet "Remote electrode positions". If the coordinates are
known, the exact geometric factors can be calculated (see "Program options"). Wenner
(alpha) and Wenner (beta) are linear configurations which are used in profiling
measurements also. Square uses 4 field electrodes in square configuration. Gradient uses
2 field potential electrodes (M and N) and 2 remote current electrodes (A and B). This
setting allows the computation of resistivities only for the case that the exact geometric K-
factors can be calculated from the known positions of the remote A and B electrodes. SP
Self Potential uses only 1 field electrode (M) for measuring the intrinsic voltage, without
applying any current to the ground. [Custom made] gives access to self made electrode
lists (see the respective chapter following).

"Spreads to be used": The direction of the field electrode array is given. The array
can spread in X-, Y- or diagonal direction as well. The
option "all" calculates all available spreads.

"Dipole lengths, Levels": This controls the distances

within the electrode array.

"Reset": This buttons resets all changes to factory default

settings. After pressing the "Set" button, two actions will take
place in sequence: (a) the grid will be calculated and (b) all
electrode configurations will be computed and the pseudo section will be set to blank values.

GeoTest user manual ● page 20 of 45

4.1.1.2.2.4 Moving electrodes / GPS

This tabsheet controls measurements with a moving array of electrodes. This option is only available in
the profiling mode.

The typical example is an array of 20 electrodes mounted on a vehicle. This car transports the electrodes
from position to position and Schlumberger soundings with 9 measurements at each position are
performed. The positions of the soundings are measured by a GPS device. The following explanations
refer to this example.

This checkbox controls if this option is active. If yes, the

program will save the position data read from the GPS
device, not profile coordinates (see chapter 4.1.3 fo more details).

The user can force the GeoTest program to measure GPS positions continu-
ously or to measure one position per geoelectric cycle (default option).

Before starting a new geoelectric measurement, the user can choose to

measure the contact resistances also.

The button "GPS setup" gives access to the GPS settings like
COM port, baudrate or NMEA sentence. The antenna height is
the vertical distance between the GPS antenna and the ground.

The user can

choose how to
handle the z coordi-
nates (altitude). By default, elavation data are computed by: Z (m) = GPS altitude reading (m) - antenna
height (m) - pseudo deph (m).

This box allows the

automatic restart of a new
geoelectric measurement
cycle after the former cycle
at the former position is
completed. If the user
chooses "automatic
saving...", the program will create a filename from the actual data and time readings and save the data
into this file. All soundings from all positions can be saved into one combined single file by choosing the
"combine all data files .." option. "Stop and go" means that the user has to restart a new sounding after
completing the old sounding by pressing a button (ideal for stop - connect electrodes - measure -
disconnect electrodes - move - ..). "Continue" means that no user interaction is necessary. The program
will measure one sounding after the other (ideal for rolling devices measuring during moving).

GeoTest user manual ● page 21 of 45

4.1.1.2.2.5 Electrodes positions

This tab sheet displays the 3-dimensional coordinates of all used field electrodes. In case of profiling
measurements, these are the equidistant profile electrodes, in case of mapping measurements, these are
the electrodes situated in the grid nodes. The remote electrodes, if there are any, are displayed in the
next tab sheet named "Remote electrode positions".

The coordinate system is the same for profile electrodes, grid electrodes and remote electrodes.
The units are meters (can be e.g. Gauss-Krüger coordinates). By default, the X-direction is the
direction of the profile. The Y-direction will run perpendicular to the "left" of the profile and the z-
direction is positive upwards. That means depths below the earth surface will get negative values.

The electrode coordinates table

The table gives the electrode number and the respective X, Y and Z coordinates. The above shown
example displays the electrode positions of a profile line. The line expands in positive x direction and
reaches from 1 m (1st electrode) to 49 m (last electrode). The y coordinates are perpendicular to the
profile direction and are all zero. The z coordinates display the elevation of each electrode and are all
zero too.

The column "type" gives access to more

information about the type of electrodes. Locked
electrodes are indicated by "X" and borehole
electrodes are indicated by "Bx" with x= number of
borehole.

Locked electrodes

A "x" or "X" written in the "type" column will force

the program not to use the respective electrode
(locked electrode). This option may be useful to
exclude electrodes with poor ground contact.

The user may choose to lock all electrodes with odd

or even numbers to reduce the amount of data to
be masured. See the example.

GeoTest user manual ● page 22 of 45

Borehole electrodes

The "type" column serves also as an indicator for

borehole electrodes. Electrodes of the 1st borehole are
indicated by "B1", for the 2nd borehole by "B2" and so
on. See the example displaying electrodes # 12 to # 20
as borehole electrodes. These electrodes have the
same x coordinate but different z coordinates.

This button will open an additional form displaying all electrode coordinates.
This form can be used for "drag and drop" information from e.g. an Excel
spreadsheet.

This button saves the electrode coordinates displayed in the data list. The user
may edit the electrode position table by himself (e.g. in case of custom made
electrode grids or by giving elevations to each electrode position). After doing this,
the user has to press this button to make the changes active.

The "Start electrode" box

These yellow boxes display the start electrode coordinates. During profiling, the start electrode is the 1 st
electrode in the profile, during mapping, this is the electrode situated at the 1 st grid node [1,1].

The "Profiling" box

This box is enabled in the profiling mode only. The box "End electrode" displays the coordinates of the
last electrode used in this electrode setup.

By checking this option, the program will automatically compute the

electrode positions from an equidistant grid beginning at the start
electrode. The user can choose the direction of the profile within the x-y-z coordinate system.
 The options "+x", "-x", "+y" and "-y" will calculate all electrode positions (including the last
electrode position) from the 1st electrode position, profile direction and electrode separation.
 The option "-> last" will calculate the electrode positions as well as the electrode separation from
the 1st and last electrode positions.

The electrode positions table will automatically be updated after clicking the "Set" button after choosing
profiling or mapping parameters.

GeoTest user manual ● page 23 of 45

4.1.1.2.2.6 Remote electrode positions

This tab sheet displays information about the remote electrodes. Remote electrodes are situated far away
from the profile or the measurement grid. Some of the electrode configurations, like Pole-Pole, use
remote electrodes, some others, like Wenner, do not.

"A", "B", "M" and "N" display the positions of the remote electrodes and indicate if these electrodes are
used as remote electrodes. Usually, these remote electrodes are connected directly to the geoelectric
hardware device using e.g. the terminal ″B″. Alternatively, the remote electrode may be realized as an
addressed electrode too.

The above example shows B as the remote electrode of a Pole-Dipole configuration. B is situated at
profile position x = 10 m, with a distance of y = 1000 m perpendicular to the profile. This remote electrode
is connected not by the terminal ″B″ to the device, but as electrode number 201. A direct connection to
the respective terminal is indicated by an address of -1.

"Calculate geometric factors": The user can choose between exact and approximate calculations.
 Approximate means that the remote electrodes are considered to be infinitely far away.
 Exact means, that the real positions of the remote electrodes are used to calculate the geometric
factor. In case of "Gradient" measurements (M and N within the grid, A and B remote), a
resistivity value can only be calculated using the "exact geometric factor" option.

If remote electrodes are used without setting of the positions, only approximate calculations are possible.
If no remote electrodes are used, exact and approximate calculations will give the same results. This can
also be set in the "Program options" menu, see chapter 4.1.1.2.4.

"Save": This button allows to edit and save the remote electrode data. The program will re-calculate
geometry factors und resistivities. Other profile or mapping parameters will not be updated.

GeoTest user manual ● page 24 of 45

4.1.1.2.2.7 Custom made electrode configurations

The user is able to customize the electrode configurations by himself.

The access to custom made electrode configurations is possible from the
"profiling" or the "mapping" mode as well.

After choosing "[ Custom made ]" and

pressing "Set" a new window appears. This
window allows the setting of A, B, M and N
electrode numbers by the user. This example
shows some Schlumberger sounding with
potential electrodes M=10 and N=11. The
user has extended the sounding
configurations by adding values for M=8 and
N=13.

Pressing "Set" will take the configurations for

the current measurement file. The respective
electrode positions (X, Y and Z coordinates)
remain unchanged. The user may change
these positions refering to the "4.1.1.2.2.5
Electrodes positions" chapter.

By pressing "Read" a measurement file (option: program data)

will be read and the electrode numbers will be extracted.
Alternatively a file containing only a list of A B M N values
(option: A B M N list) can be read also.

"Save" will save the electrode configurations into a measurement file (option: program data) or into a
data list (option: A B M N list).

4.1.1.2.2.8 Setting electrodes and data header

"Reset": This buttons resets all changes to factory default settings.

"Read settings from file" allows to read settings from a previously

stored data file. This data file serves as a template for the desired
settings.

"Set" will accept all changes. Please be sure to press this button to accept all
changes made.

GeoTest user manual ● page 25 of 45

4.1.1.2.3 Setup measurement parameters

"How to control current":

Option 1 = The measered voltage will be forced to be between the min and max values given by "Voltage
U limits (mV)". This is done by adjusting the current.
Option 2 = The maximum possible current is used. The maximum current depends on the setting for
"Current (mA) - max", the electrode contact resistances and the maximum available transmitter output
power and will be set automatically.
"Sequence":
Option 1 = do 1 measurement, check the measured voltage, control the current (if necessary) until the
voltage is OK. Then complete the next measurements for one averaging.
Option 2 = do all measurements for one averaging, check the average voltage to be within the min and
max limits and control the current. The option 2 is recommended in disturbed areas with very noisy data.
"Voltage used for controlling":
U = the in-phase (ohmic) part of the complex voltage is used. This is the default option.
U90 = the out-of-phase part of the complex voltage is used. This option may be useful for measuring high
qualitative IP data.
"Voltage U/U90 limits (mV)":
The min and max values of measured voltages. Depending on the user settings in "Voltage used for
controlling", either the in-phase (ohmic) or the out-of-phase part of voltage is used for controlling. This box
is only enabled, if the "How to control current" option 1 is active.
"Measurements/mean":
This box gives access to all parameters concerning averaging. The measurements are repeated until the
deviations of the readings reach the defined "Limit (%)" or the maximum number of measurements is
reached. Averaging is only done if "n min" > 1. If "n min" = 1, the measurement will be finished just after
the first reading.The averaging will be done until at least one of the two conditions is fulfilled:
- number of readings >= "n max" or
- deviation of readings <= "Limit (%)".

GeoTest user manual ● page 26 of 45

"n min" = minimum number of readings for one averaging.
"n max" = maximum number of readings for one averaging.
"Limit (%)" = maximum allowed deviation of readings. This error is defined as = ABS(standard deviation /
(√n * U_mean)) * 100 with n = number of measurements, U_mean = arithmetic mean of measured
voltage (U or U90).
"Averaging method - measure until ...": This box chooses the type of averaging.
Option 1 = measuring is done, until the error of all readings is less than the given limit.
Option 2 = n min values of the voltage are read and the average is calculated. The next voltage will be
read and the mean of the last n min values is calculated. This averaging is done in a moving manner with
a step of 1 measurement.
Option 3 = same as option 2, but the step of the moving average is the same as the length of the moving
average = n min.
Option 4 = no averaging is done.
"At each ABMN position":
"Reset electrodes": This option depends on the usage of single channel or multi channel switch boxes.
Standard single channel switch boxes will reset the electrodes before setting the electrodes, multi
channel switch boxes will not. See chapter 2.2.1 for an explanation.
"Switch on transmitter": the transmitter will be switched on before each measurement. This option is not
recommended for standard measurements, because the transmitter will be switched on only one time at
starting.
″Switch A and B″: Current electrodes A and B will always be switched on a new ABMN position, this is the
default setting. In case of Multiple Gradient or Full-Range-Gradient FRG measurements, this option will
automatically be unchecked to increase the measurement speed. In this case, the potential dipole MN will
be switched, while the current dipole AB remains active.
"Switch on booster": The external votlage supply (so called booster) will be switched on before each
measurement. Dpending on the kind of electrodes hardware, the booster could be necessary for cable
length more than 300 m or 500 m. Recommended = checked.
"Measure transmitter voltage": the transmitter output voltage is measured too. The transmitter voltage
gives information about the electrical power, which the transmitter is applying to the ground. This
parameter may be useful for checking the actual contact resistances. Depending on the option set, the
transmitter current step or transmitter voltage is displayed in the "Transmitter" box of the main form. See
chapter 4.1.6. Recommended = checked.
The "n AB max" number gives the maximum number of measurement trials on one measurement
position. This number avoids an uncontroled duration of measurements in a very noisy area. If this
number is exceeded, the measurement will be stopped and stored, even if the error limit is not reached.
"Default settings":
gives access to pre-defined sets of measurement parameters.
Remark: we recommend to use the "standard" settings.

"Current (mA)":
this box controls the measurement current. The "min" and "max" boxes
limit the minimum and maximum currents. Normally, these boxes display the really available minimum
and maximum current settings. The "now" box displays the start setting. "No current: measure self
potential (SP)": If this checkbox is active, no current will be applied during the measurement. Only the self
potential is measured. Please note: proper self potential measurements require the use of unpolarizable
electrodes (no steel electrodes). This option does not work with all hardware versions.

"Frequency (Hz)":
This box can choose between standard measurements with using of one single frequency or frequency
soundings. The one frequency or the multiple frequencies are set.

Measurement device "4 point light hp". The user should take care of the correct frequency setting. Users
in Europe: We recommend to use 1.04 Hz, 2.08 Hz, 4.16 Hz or 8.33 Hz (these settings give maximum
suppression of the 50 Hz mains frequency as well as the 16.7 Hz railway frequency). Users in the United
States: We recommend to use 1.25 Hz, 2.5 Hz, 5.0 Hz or 10.0 Hz (due to 60 Hz mains frequency).
Measurement device "4 point light 10W". This device is pre-set to one of two frequency sets. One set is
suitable for measurements in Europe, the other set is suitable for measurements in USA. Please notice: The
device frequency presetting (within the device menu) must be the same as the frequencies displayed in the
GeoTest software. See chapter 2.2.1. for details.

The "Set" button will accept all settings. It is necessary to press this button,
otherwise the settings will not be accepted.

GeoTest user manual ● page 27 of 45

4.1.1.2.4 Setup program options

"Getting started"

This program option is useful for

the user who runs GeoTest the
first time. After choosing the
language the user is guided
through the main settings of the
program. It is recommended to
set all defaults from (1) to (5).
Normally, these settings are
done only once when the user
starts to use GeoTest. See also
chapter "0. Getting started".

"Geometric factors + pseudo depths"

"Calculate geometric factors":

The user can choose between
exact and approximate calculations.
"Approximate" means that the
remote electrodes are considered
to be infinitely far away. Using the "Gradient" array and "approximate" remote electrode positions, no
geometry factors and no resistivities can be calculated. In this case, only the measured voltages are
displayed. "Exact" means, that the positions of the remote electrodes are known and are used to
calculate the geometric factors. By using of this option, also Gradient measurements can give resistivity
values. If no remote elctrodes are used, exact and approximate calculations will give the same results.
See also chapter 4.1.1.2.2.5.

Pseudo depths are calculated after

Roy & Apparao (1971) be default. The
user may choose also the calculation
after Edwards (1977), which is also
used in Res2DInv and Res3DInv.

"ResXDInv"

This menu gives access to saving options for users of Res2DInv and
Res3DInv inversion software.
"Include topography": if this option is set, GeoTest will export
topography information into the ResXDinv data file. The topography
results from the settings in the "Electrode positions" section (elevation
= Z coordinate).
"General array data format": This setting exports ResXDinv data in
the so called "general array" data format. This is a useful option for
mixed arrays, that means measurements with different array types like
Wenner and Dipole-Dipole in one single measurement.
If "Save remote electrode positions" is clicked, these positions are saved too. This is useful only if
exact geometric factors are used additionally.
"Data format": The user can choose between rho = resistivities only or rho+phi = resistivities and phase
angles to be saved into the ResXDinv data file.

GeoTest user manual ● page 28 of 45

For further details see the Res2DInv and Res3DInv documentation ('GeoTomo software', M. H. Loke,
Malaysia, www.geoelectrical.com).

"Display"

Pseudo section
The color scale of the boxes
within the pseudosections can
be set. The same color scale will
be used for the resistivity (rho)
and phase angle (phi) display as
well. The colors may be
interpolated for a more detailed
view.

If the checkbox "while mouse

moves over pseudosection.." is
checked, the
program will
display the
rho and phi values by a label
hint near the mouse pointer.
This way, the user can have a
first look at the measured data.

In case of more than 1 data per

position in the pseudo section,
the user may choose to display the mean of 1st and last occurence of this data point (default), min, mean
or max.

Show ...
The user may choose the displays on the right side of the main form. For example,
the checkbox "Date and time" will display the current date and time at the lower right
corner on the right side of the main form.

"more ..."

This tab allows additional user

settings.

Language: Prefered language.

Do automatic backup of data:
The data will be saved into the
displayed file within the <Windows
user application\GeoTest> folder. This
option can be very useful to avoid
data missing due to a sudden
breakdown of the notebook
battery. The backup data can be
read using the main menu by
"File - read backup file".
Measurement sound: Play a sound after each measurement or not.
"Factory reset": All user made settings (except software key) are cleared by deleting the INI file. If there
is a software key, this will not be deleted. The user has to quit and restart the program. During restart all
parameters are set to default values.
The user has to make the programm accept his choices by clicking the "Set" button.

GeoTest user manual ● page 29 of 45

4.1.1.3 Measure

4.1.1.3.1 Measure contact resistances

This form controls the measurement of contact resistances. The contact resistance is the resistance (=
impedance, measured in Ohm = Ω) between one electrode and ground. Although the measurements are
done by pairs of electrodes, the contact resistance of each measured electrode is calculated and shown
against the respective electrode number. For comparison, the respective electrode address is shown too.

The lower the contact resistance, the more current can be applied to the ground. High quality geoelectric
measurements need low contact resistances. Optimal contact resistances are < 600 Ω. Nevertheless,
even much higher contact resistances (> 50'000 Ω = 50 kΩ) may give useable geoelectric measurements.

The measured contact resistances are shown as a data list and in a graphics display. The graphics show
also the maximum allowed contact resistance as a horizontal red line (in the example 10 kΩ).

GeoTest user manual ● page 30 of 45

Settings

Electrodes: The numbers of 1st and last electrodes to be measured can be set. By default, these are the
1st and last available electrodes, formerly set in the "Electrodes and data header" (chapter 4.1.1.2.2.1)
menu. The user may choose only a part of the available electrodes.
Calibration: Three electrodes are used for the calibration measurement. By
default, the calibration electrodes are the first three electrodes. The user
may choose onother electrodes for calibration when one of the three
electrodes has bad ground contact or is locked. The 1 st of the calibration
electrode (Ref) is the reference electrode for all following contact resistance
measurements.
Current: The program uses the test current for the measurement cycle. If ″auto″ is checked, the test
current will automatically be adjusted for proper voltage readings.
Frequency: The test frequency for the mesasurement cycle.
Num: The number of measurements per one averaging.
Maximum contact resistance: The user gives the maximum allowed contact resistance (in the example
10 kΩ).

Measurements

The active A and B electrodes are displayed, as well as the active transmitter voltage

Buttons

"Clear" will clear all displayed values. The table and graphics are
cleared and all measured contact resistances are resetted.
"Show all" will show all measured contact resistance data. This may
be useful after the measurement of only few electrodes.
"min + max" will display a short statistics of measured contact
resistances like to be seen at the right side.
"Reset" will reset all settings to defaults and will reset all measured
contact resistances as well.
"Start ..." will start the measurements (alternativeley pressing the
<RET> key). The button caption will change to "... Stop". Pressing the button now (alternatively pressing
the <RET> or the <ESC> key) will stop the actual measurement.
"Close" will close the form..

Performing of automatic contact resistance measurements

 Calibration: Three electrodes are used for a calibration of the measurement procedure. By default, these
are the first 3 electrodes. One of these 3 electrodes will serve further on as the reference electrode. The
calibration procedure results in the known contact resistance of this reference electrode.
 Measurement: After the auto calibration, resistances are measured between the reference electrode and a
2nd electrode. The 2nd electrode moves fro the beginning to the end of all available electrodes. The reference
electrode and the 2nd electrode are choosen as current emitting electrodes A and B. The test current is
applied. The transmitter voltage is measured. The contact resistance of the 2 nd electrode computes from the
transmitter voltage devided by the transmitter current minus the known contact resistance of the reference
electrode.
 Display: The measured contact resistances are displayed in the data list and in the graphics display. If the
measured contact resistance is less then the maximum allowed value, "OK" will be displayed in the data list.

Re- measuring electrodes

The user is able to re-measure only a part of the available elctrodes

(e.g. after changing the test current) The user may also re-measure
single electrodes (e.g. after improving the ground coupling of this
electrode). The user can do this by a right-mouse-click into the
respective position in the data list or by moving the yellow cursor in
the graphics and a right-mouse-click into the graphics.

GeoTest user manual ● page 31 of 45

4.1.1.3.2 Measure start / stop

After pressing "Start ...", ...

... the form "Start and stop #" will appear. This window controls the
minimum and maximum number of measurements, which will be
performed. By default, the minimum and maximum available
numbers are displayed. The user is able to change these numbers,
for example to limit the range of numbers to be measured.

Alternatively, the user may start the measurement by pressing the

<RET> key.

Pressing the "OK" button will start the measurement.

During running of the measurement, the main menu will display:

By pressing "... Stop", the actual measurement will be interrupted. Re-starting of

the measurement will be done by default using the next available, not yet
measured, number.

Alternatively, the measurement can be stopped by pressing the <RET> or the

<ESC> key.

As an alternative to using the main menu, the

user may start and stop the measurement by
clicking the ″Measurement″ box in the main form.

Active GPS option: In case of an active GPS option the user will be
asked to start the GPS position measurement immediately without
asking for start and stop numbers. The GPS measurements will be
stopped by pressing "Stop".

GeoTest user manual ● page 32 of 45

4.1.1.4 Data

These menues give access to the measured data.

The "Show details" option will display all available information of the actual
data set and all measurerd data sets.

The "Show overview" option will display an overview of the measured data.
Not all available data is displayed. The displayed overview is the same as in
the data list window in the main program form (see chapter "Data list").

"Show error messages" will display a window containing error messages. Errors could be e.g. "voltage
too low" or "overload" or "open".

"Edit" will open a window providing several editing possibilities.

The displayed example allows the user to delete all data, which contain the electrode number 11 as
active potential electrode M or N. After pressing the ″Re-measure″ button, the formerly deleted data
points will be measured again.

4.1.1.5 Device

This menu controls the hardware connected to the computer.

"Measuring device" is the geoelectric device controlling current and measuring
voltage.
"ABMN" is the electrode switching device.
"GPS" is the GPS device, if connected.

GeoTest user manual ● page 33 of 45

4.1.1.6 Extra

4.1.1.6.1 Monitoring

This option allows time dependent measurements. More than one configuration may
be measured. All current settings (cable, profile and measurement parameters) will
be used or, alternatively, the settings from different template files. The
measurements will be triggered automatically, depending on the system time, and
saving will be done automatically as well. The following forms give access to all
settings.

4.1.1.6.1.1 Monitoring - "Start / stop"

"Start monitoring": Date and time of the 1 st

measurement. If "now" is checked, the first
measurement will be done immediately after
pressing the "Start" button.
"Step": The time interval between 2
measurements. The displayed example
shows 1 hour.
"Stop monitoring": Date and time of the last
measurement. If "never" is checked, the
measurements will be continued until the user
presses the "Stop" button.
"measure contact resistances": checking
this option will result in measuring the
electrode contact resistances before starting
each new geoelectric measurement.

"Start" will start the monitoring.

"Stop" will stop the monitoring.
"Defaults" will overwrite the current settings and will reset them to defaults.
"Close" closes this form.

4.1.1.6.1.2 Monitoring - "Read"

This tab offers the options to use the actual

settings or up to 3 template files for
monitoring. A template file may be a blank
data file, the settings will be read out of the
template file. Using different template files
allows realizing of up to 3 configurations of
time series.

GeoTest user manual ● page 34 of 45

4.1.1.6.1.3 Monitoring - "Save"

The user checks which files he wants to be

saved.

"Program data *.tx0": original data file

including all settings and measured data.

For the other files formats see the chapter

″4.1.1.1 File″.

4.1.1.6.1.4 Monitoring - "Status"

"Now": The current date and time is

displayed. The checkbox "Measurement
running" is checked during the active
measurement. It is unchecked during the
waiting period.

"Next measurement": The date and time of

the next scheduled measurement is dis-
played.

4.1.1.6.1.5 Monitoring - "List"

This tab shows the start date and time of all

measurements which are performed until
now. If some problem occured (e.g. missing
data file), this will be shown also.

GeoTest user manual ● page 35 of 45

4.1.1.6.2 Simulation mode

The simulation mode is used to test the

sequence of electrode switchings and
measurements. During running the simulation
mode, all readings and settings are simulated
and not really per formed. This may be a useful
option to test complex measurement arrays.

The simulation mode will open a window to

control the simulated voltages by the user. This
window will always stay on top of the desktop in
order not to forget this modus.

Please pay attention: This simulation mode is not able to

perform real geoelectric measurements.

4.1.1.6.3 Registration

This form controls the registration of the program.

In case of missing registration, the program will run in a limited modus only. in
this limited modus, the maximum amount of electrodes used is limited to 20. The
limited modus is realized to give some interested user the possibility to test the
program in some demo modus.
The registration procedure is described in chapter 3.2. of this manual. After
registration (or usage of a hardware key), the program runs in the free modus
with no limitations. The registration data will be stored on the users computer in
the INI data file.

4.1.1.6.4 Language

The program supports the languages "Deutsch" and "English". Most of the
program captions (boxes, buttons, windows) will immediately switch to the new
language.

4.1.1.7 Help

The "Manual GeoTest" willl display the GeoTest manual as a PDF

document. This document is the same as this document, which you
read now. Depending on the actual language settings, the english
manual or the german Handbuch will be opened.
The "Manual GeoTest - Tutorial" gives some introduction into
performing tomography measurements by using of step-by-step
examples.
The further options (e.g. "Manual 4PointLight hp") will open the
hardware documentation of the connected geoelectric equipment.
"iNet: ..." will launch the default internet browser software and load
the internet website of the programmer of GeoTest.
"FAQ: ..." will launch the internet browser software, load the internet website and jump directly to the
FAQ site concerning the registration procedure.
"eMail: ..." will launch the default eMail client and will automatically create an email which can be sent to
the programmer of GeoTest.
"About .." will display the information about the program, the actual versions and the author.

GeoTest user manual ● page 36 of 45

4.1.2 Pseudo sections

The section which is displayed depends on the actual measurement mode.

 In case of the profiling mode, a depth section will appear. This is a x- z- slice.
 In case of the mapping mode, horizontal x- y- slices are displayed. The (pseudo) depth is
encoded in boxes with different sizes (the smaller, the deeper).

4.1.2.1 Profiling mode: pseudo-depth sections

The pseudo section displays the measured data as colored boxes. The boxes are situated in some table
type refering to the horizontal and vertical positions of the respective measurement. These sections are
called "pseudo", because the vertical positions of the boxes are - of course - not the real vertical positions
of the respective data point. For getting quasi real vertical positions, some evaluation of data is necessary
(computer inversion modelling).
Depending on the type of hardware and type of performed measurement, the user can switch between
different displays.
"rho (Ohmm)" displays the measured resistivities in [Ohm*m] = [m]. These result from the in-phase
component of the measured voltages.
"phi (mrad)" displays the information from the out-of-phase component of the measured voltages. Phi in
mrad is defined as = U90 [mV} / U [mV] * 1000. This option is not availble for all hardware types.
"U (mV)" displays the measured voltages (U and U90 or self potentials). This option is only available for
some measurement configurations (SP or gradient) and not available for all hardware types.
If frequency dependent measurements are performed, 2 additional options are available:
"rho (f)" displays information about the frequency effect. The
displayed values are calculated by = rho(f1) / rho(f2).
"phi (f)" displays the out-of-phase frequency effect. The
definition is = phi(f1) - phi(f2).

The user can handle the pseudosections by mouse actions like this:
<left-click>: The data line in the data list (chapter 4.1.3) corresponding to the
respective box is selected. The data is searched from the beginning (num = 1). If
there are overlapping boxes, the 1st (lowermost) box is used.
<double-left-click> or <shift>+<left-click>: The data line in the data list (chapter
4.1.3) corresponding to the respective box is selected. The data list is searched in reverse direction. If there are
overlapping boxes, the last (uppermost) box is used.
<right-click>: the measurement can be re-measured. Search of data list from the beginning.
<shift>+<right-click>: the measurement can be re-measured. Search of data list from the end.

GeoTest user manual ● page 37 of 45

4.1.2.2 Mapping mode: horizontal slices

The section displays the measured data as colored boxes. The boxes are situated in some table type
refering to the horizontal positions (X and Y coordinates) of the respective measurement. The size of the
boxes depends on the respective pseudo depth. "Pseudo", because the pseudo depths are not the real
depths.

This example displays the blank section of a grid of Pole-Pole- measurements. Blank means, there is not
yet data which fills the boxes.

The selector on the top of the section allows to select the

displayed depth slices. The user can choose to display
all slices or slices of a certain depth.

As in the pseudo section display of the profiling measurements, the user can choose between drawing of
resistivities [rho (Ohmm)] or phase angles [phi (mrad)]. In case of frequency dependent measurements,
also the frequency functions rho(f) and phi(f) are available (see former chapter).

Single measurements can be re-measured by clicking into the pseudosection

using the right mouse button.

GeoTest user manual ● page 38 of 45

4.1.3 Data list

The data list contains the summary of measured data. This is the same data as available by pressing the
"Data" → Show overview" option of the main menu and the same data to be stored into a file. The
displayed data list displays the results of 1 frequency setting. If there exist measurements of more than
one frequency, the user can switch to another frequency by cklicking the "Frequency settings" option.

Explanation of data:

num = number of measurement.

A,B,M,N = number of elctrodes A,B,M,N.
I [mA] = measurement current in [mA].
U [mV] = measured voltage (in-phase part, ohmic part) in [mV].
dU [%] = error of measured voltages in %.
This error is defined as = ABS (standard deviation / (√n * U_mean) ) * 100
with n = number of measurements, U_mean = arithmetic mean of all measured U.
U90 [mV] = measured voltage (out-of-phase part) in [mV].
dU90 [%] = error of measured U90 voltages in %.
This error is defined as = ABS (standard deviation / (√n * U90_mean) ) * 100
with n = number of measurements, U90_mean = arithmetic mean of all U90.
rho [Ohmm] = resistivity in [Ohm*m].
phi [mrad] = Phase angle in [mrad]. This parameter is defined by the U90-to-U-ratio and is given in the
unit mrad = Milli-Radian (see wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radian).
phi[mrad] = U90 [mV] / U [mV] * 1000.
The phase angle may be converted to the unit degrees by this formula:
phi[deg] = phi[mrad] * 0.0572958.
f [Hz] = measurement frequency in [Hz].
n = number of single measurements used for the actual voltage average.
nAB = number of average measurements performed at the actual ABMN position. This number includes
trials for current settings as well.
Profile [m] = profile position in m. This position refers to the mid point of the actual electrode
configuration. This parameter is only valid in the profiling mode. For a definition see chapter ″4.1.1.2.2.2
Profiling″.
Spread [m] = the spread of the actual electrode configuration. The spread is the distance between the
first and the last electrode (profiling mode) or the maximum distance between 2 electrodes of a x-y- grid
(mapping mode).
PseudoZ [m] = Pseudo depth. This is the "investigation depth" as proposed in the paper from Roy and
Apparao (1971). This is not the real depth, therefore it is called pseudo-depth. Real depths will be
calculated later using 2-D or 3-D inversion techniques (not part of GeoTest, see also Barker (1989)).

Please note: there are some different definitions of depths obtained in tomography measurements.
Edwards (1977) introduced the "effective depth" This depth definition is different to the "investigation
depth" definition of Roy and Apparao (1971). ResXDinv inversion software uses the "effective depth"
definition of Edwards (1977).

GeoTest user manual ● page 39 of 45

Positions = X [m], Y [m], Z [m] or Lo [deg], La [deg], Z [m]. The type of position coordinates may be
either X, Y and Z (each in metric units) or longitude, latitude (both in degrees) and Z (metric unit). The
latter is used in case of active GPS readings.
 X [m], Y [m] and Z [m]: This coordinate type is the default type. X,Y and Z are the 3 spatial
coordinates of the measurement point. The coordinate system is a rectangular (cartesian) right-
hand system with metric units (e.g. Gauß-Krüger). In case of profiling measurements, the default
settings are a system with:
X = profile distance [m]. Positive in profile direction.
Y= distance [m] in the direction perpendicular to the profile. Positive to the left.
Z = height [m] = elevation calculated from the elevation of the active electrodes minus pseudo
depth. Positive upwards.
 Lo [deg], La [deg] and Z [m]: These are the 3 spatial coordinates of the measurement point in
case of active GPS measurements. The coordinate data is read from the GPS device using the
NMEA-0183 standard. The original NMEA data format of geographical longitude (Lo) and latitude
(La) is a little "distorted": Lo (dddmm.m) and La (ddmm.m) with d=degrees and m=minutes and
fractions of a minute. GeoTest converts this format into degrees with decimal fractions. Southern
latitudes or western longitudes are saved as negative values. The 3 rd dimension = Z is saved in
meters.
Lo = longitude [deg]. Eastern longitudes are positive, western longitudes are negative.
La = latitude [deg]. Northern latitudes are positive, southern latitudes are negative.
Z = height [m] = GPS reading Z [m] minus antenna height [m] (optionally minus pseudo depth
[m]), see 4.1.1.2.2.4. The height is positive in upward direction.
Time [hh:mm:ss.ss] = This colums contains the time stamp. The time is read from the computer system
time.
U (Tx) [V] = This is the measured transmitter output voltage.

Like in the pseudo sections, one single measurement can be re-

measured by clicking into the respective field using the right mouse
button.

Clicking the left mouse button, the respective data box in the
pseudosection will blink. This makes it easier to find the corresponding
box in the pseudosection.

Remark: the "Edit data" menu gives access to the data (see chapter 4.1.1.4). Within this menu,
the user can see some statistics for each parameter and the user is able to edit each parameter.

GeoTest user manual ● page 40 of 45

4.1.4 Electrode switch box

The currently active electrode numbers are displayed. The white fields display the
electrode numbers calculated by the program. The blue "Address" fields give the real
electrode addresses (in case of active electrodes). The actual number and the actual
address need not to be the same. The slider at the bottom of this box gives a sketch
of the electrode postions. A and B are the current emitting electrodes. M and N are
the potential electrodes.
In case of profiling and suitable data sorting: during the
measurement procedure a message will apear just below the
electrode switch box as soon as the first or last used cable (or
electrode chain) could be un-plugged (see chapter 4.1.1.2.2.2.).

4.1.5 Frequency settings

The actual frequency setting is displayed.

While the measurement is running, the frequency setting can

not be changed by the user. After stopping the measurement,
this frequency box will be enabled. The user can now switch between the
measurerd frequencies. The Data list will be updated immediately.

4.1.6 Transmitter

The current settings of the transmitter are displayed. The needle indicator shows the
current step (or transmitter voltage, depending on the settings, see chapter
4.1.1.2.3), the text box shows the current in mA. The green symbol shows the
proper function of the transmitter. If there is a problem (e.g. open A-B connection),
the green symbol will disappear and an "open" symbol will appear. If the "show
transmitter voltage" option in the measurement parameter section is checked
(chapter 4.1.1.2.3), the needle indicator will display the transmitter voltage (in V), not
the transmitter current step. In this case, one additional measurement (namely the
transmitter voltage) is necessary.

4.1.7 Receiver

This box shows the current voltage measurement. Only the in-
phase part of the voltage is shown. The green symbol in the middle
shows correct voltage readings. Too low or too high voltages will
result in red symbols.

Double-left-clicking into the "mV" label will show an expanded list of

measured voltages.

4.1.8 Measurement status

This box displays the current status of the measurements to be performed. The
extrapolated remaining measurement time is displayed too.

4.1.9 Battery power

The battery power of the geoelectric device is shown. Depending on the hardware
used, also the external 12 V power and notebook battery capacity may be shown.
This display is updated automatically every 30 seconds.

GeoTest user manual ● page 41 of 45

4.2 Roll-on procedure

″Roll-on″ or ″Roll-along″ is the name of the procedure to perform measurements with a total profile length
which is greater than the available cable lengths. Roll-on works using mapping configurations as well. In
the following, the ″Roll-on″ procedure is explained using the profiling configuration as an example:

 The electrodes are set using the standard cable setup.

 The measurement is performed using the standard cable setup.
 After completing of the measurement, the data file has to be saved.
 Then the cable setup is modified: the 1 st cable is disconnected and then re-connected at the end
of the profile. The profile will therefore be extended by the length of the former 1 st cable, which is
now the last cable.
 The next measurement is performed using the modified cable setup. Only these measurements
are done, which use the new electrodes.
 After completing the measurement, the new data file has to be saved again.
 This procedure can be repeated as long as necessary.
 ...
 After finishing all single measurements, all single data files have to be combined to one complete
data file. This can be saved in total and is used for e.g. exporting to Res2DInv data.

The following example explains the procedure in more detail using a profiling configuration. Supposed:
The user wants to perform a 695 m long measurement consisting of 1 standard and 2 roll-on procedures
using the Wenner configuration and 5 m electrode separation using 5 electrode chains with 20 electrodes
each. The user starts by choosing main menu > set > cables / electrodes chains (see chapter ″4.1.1.2.1.
Setup cables..″):

This setup shows in total 100 electrodes. The 1 st electrode in use (address 1) is at profile start = 0 m. The
last electrode number 100 (address 100) is situated at the profile end = 495 m. The user fixes this setup
by pressing ″Set″, sets all profile settings (main menu > set > electrodes and data header) and starts the
measurement (main menu > measure > start ...). After finishing the 1 st measurement, the respective
pseudosection of the example looks like this:

GeoTest user manual ● page 42 of 45

The measurement is saved (main menu > file > save). After, the setup cables form is opened again (main
menu > set > cables / electrode chains). By pressing the ″Roll on″ button, the cable setup is modified:

The 1st electrode now in use is the electrode number 21 (address 21) at position = 100 m. The last
electrode in use is the number 120 (address 20) at position = 595 m. This setup is used for the next
measurement. After the 2nd measurement, the resulting pseudosection looks like this:

The data is saved. The example procedure is repeated again: roll-on + measure + save. After 2 nd roll-on
procedure (in total 3rd measurement), the total profile reaches now up to electrode number 140 = 695 m.

GeoTest user manual ● page 43 of 45

In the last step, the 3 measured data files are combined by reading them using the multiple file option:
Main menu > File > Read multiple data files and combine. The combined profile reaches from electrode 1
= 0 m to electrode 140 = 695 m. The resulting combined pseudo section of the example data is:

4.3 The GeoTest command line parameters

GeoTest can be run using command line parameters. GeoTest will read the command line parameters
immediately after starting the program. The following command line parameters are possible (see the
following example):

 1st parameter (example = "d:\_\test.tx0"): name and folder of the data file to be read.
Automatically read the data file which includes all settings, including electrodes and data header,
measurements parameters, monitoring settings, all series of ABMN settings. The data file may
contain already measured data or may be blank.
 2nd parameter (= "monitoring"): automatically switch into the monitoring mode
 3rd parameter (= "start"): automatically run the measurement in monitoring mode.

If the user copies the GeoTest shortcut with the respective parameter strings into the Windows "Auto-
Start" folder, the program GeoTest will automatically be started after starting (or re-starting) of Windows.
This may be used for completely automatic and autonomous monitoring measurements without the need
for handling by a user.

How to set parameter strings?

Locate the GeoTest icon somewhere on the

Windows destop. Place the mouse cursor on the
icon and click the right mouse button to open the
properties options. See the screenshot of my
German Windows XP:

Set the respective parameter strings in the

"Target" (German: "Ziel") line.

GeoTest user manual ● page 44 of 45

5 About GeoTest

5.1 Software agreements

Licence agreement
The user of the software accepts the following conditions.
The user is allowed:
- to install and use the software on one single computer.
- to make one copy of the program as a safety copy.
- to give the software to a third person only after a written consent of the producer.
The user is not allowed:
- to give under-licences or to sale or to lend the software or parts of the software to third persons.
- to try to get access to the source code of the program by reverse engineering, decompiling or
other methods.
- to use a former version of the software, in the case of getting an upgrade of the software.
Extended licence agreement
The user has the duty to comply with additional licence agreements, which are valid for the delivered additional
software products, if there are...
Guarantee terms
The Author guarantees, that the software is developped carefully. The software is very complex, therefore the author
cannot guarantee the absolute absence of software bugs or errors.
Liability
There is no liability of the author for any possible consequences of this software.

5.2 Program and manual version

This manual (version 17.3.2021) refers to the software program "GeoTest" in version 3.00 (march 2021).

5.3 Program author

This program and the manual were written by:

Geophysik - Dr. Rauen

Dr. Armin Rauen
Ödgarten 12
94574 Wallerfing
Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 9936 902026
Fax: +49 (0) 9936 902027
eMail: [email protected]
iNet: www.geophysik-dr-rauen.de

Comments and suggestions are always welcome.

6 References

Barker R.D. (1989): Depth of investigation of collinear symmetrical four-electrode arrays. Geophysics, vol. 54, No. 8 (august 1989),
1031-1037.
Berktold & 21 Coautoren (1997): Geoelektrik. In Knödel K., Krummel H. & Lange G. (Herausg.): Geophysik. Handbuch zur
Erkundung des Untergrundes von Deponien und Altlasten, Band 3, 65-367, Springer-Verlag.
Dahlin & Zhou (2006): multiple gradient array measurements for multichannel 2D resistivity imaging. Near Surface Geophysics,
2006, 113-123.
Edwards (1977): A modified pseudosection for resistivity and IP. Geophysics, Vol. 42, No 5, 1020-1036.
Friedel S. (1997): Hochauflösende Geoelektrik - Geoelektrische Tomographie. In: M. Beblo (Herausg.): Umweltgeophysik, 131-151,
Berlin.
Hennig Th., Weller A., Canh T. (2005): The effect of dike geometry on different resistivity configurations. Journal of Applied
Geophysics 57, 278-292.
Roy and Apparao (1971): Depth of investigation in direct current methods. Geophysics, Vol. 36, No. 5, P. 943-959
Trimble (1999): AgGPS(TM) 124/132 operation manual. Trimble Navigations Ltd. www.trimble.com.
Zhou et al. (2020): A full-range gradient survey for 2D electrical resistivity tomography. Near Surface Geophysics, 2020, 18, 609-
626.

GeoTest user manual ● page 45 of 45