LUMEX INSTRUMENTS

Software
RAPID

USER’S MANUAL

B0300-00-00-000 UM

2020
Please read attentively this Manual before installing or starting the
software. LUMEX INSTRUMENTS shall not be liable for any damages
suffered because of non-compliance with these guidelines.

Read the license agreement enclosed to this Manual before starting

work with the software package.

No part of this Manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any

means neither electronically nor mechanically without the prior written
permission of LUMEX INSTRUMENTS.

Contact us at [email protected]

Welcome to our Website www.lumexinstruments.com

Version 15
Created 16.03.2021
 Contents I

Contents

1 Introduction .............................................................................................. 1
1.1 How to use this Manual .................................................................................................. 1
1.2 General description ........................................................................................................ 1
1.3 Regulatory Compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 ........................................................ 2
1.4 Conventions and abbreviations ...................................................................................... 3

2 The first steps with RAPID software ...................................................... 5

2.1 Starting RAPID software ................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Operation mode selection ............................................................................................... 7
2.3 Exiting the software ........................................................................................................ 7

3 Connecting the instrument and operating with previously stored

data ........................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Connecting the instrument to the software ..................................................................... 9
3.2 Operation with previously stored data .......................................................................... 12

4 Sample analysis ..................................................................................... 15

4.1 Sample analysis dialog (basic functions) ..................................................................... 16
4.2 Setting sample analysis window ................................................................................... 25
4.3 Sample analysis window in the Calibration mode ........................................................ 33
4.3.1 Measuring signal upon sample input ........................................................................ 34
4.3.2 Setting calibration parameters .................................................................................. 35
4.3.3 Setting sample description, reference value and sample mass (volume) ................ 37
4.3.4 Allocation of the peak boundaries and calculation of its area and height ................ 38
4.3.5 Calculating calibration results ................................................................................... 40
4.4 Sample Analysis window in the Analysis mode ............................................................ 46
4.4.1 Measuring signal upon sample input ........................................................................ 47
4.4.2 Selecting working calibration .................................................................................... 47
4.4.3 Entering sample mass (volume) and sample description ......................................... 49
4.4.4 Allocation of the peak boundaries and calculation of its area and height ................ 50
4.4.5 Sample analysis results ............................................................................................ 50
4.4.6 Measurement results view ........................................................................................ 51
4.5 Operating with graph .................................................................................................... 52
4.5.1 Determination of cursor coordinates ........................................................................ 52
4.5.2 Zooming a segment of the graph ............................................................................. 53
4.5.3 Autoscaling Y-axis .................................................................................................... 54
4.5.4 Full screen ................................................................................................................ 55
4.5.5 Moving the graph ...................................................................................................... 55
4.5.6 Cancelling previous scaling ...................................................................................... 55
4.5.7 Legend ...................................................................................................................... 55
II RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

4.5.8 Exporting graph as an image file ............................................................................. 56

4.5.9 Exporting graph as a text file ................................................................................... 56
4.6 Saving results ............................................................................................................... 56
4.7 Viewing saved results .................................................................................................. 58
4.8 Viewing saved calibrations ........................................................................................... 59
4.9 Viewing measurement database .................................................................................. 61
4.9.1 List of measurements. Settings window ................................................................... 63
4.9.2 List of measurements with detailed information ....................................................... 64
4.10 Statistics ....................................................................................................................... 65
4.10.1 Project settings/parameters ..................................................................................... 72
4.10.2 Statistics list ............................................................................................................. 76
4.10.3 R-chart for repeatability conditions .......................................................................... 79
4.10.4 Accuracy check using RM or SRM window ............................................................. 82
4.11 Operation with autosampler ......................................................................................... 86
4.11.1 Sample data ............................................................................................................. 87
4.11.2 Sample analysis in automatic mode ........................................................................ 89
4.12 List of error messages .................................................................................................. 91

5 Settings .................................................................................................. 93
5.1 Settings window ........................................................................................................... 93
5.2 Instrument settings window .......................................................................................... 94
5.3 Instrument diagnostics mode ....................................................................................... 97
5.3.1 Instrument diagnostics window (basic functions) ..................................................... 97
5.3.2 Diagnostics window settings .................................................................................... 99
5.3.3 Instrument diagnostics ........................................................................................... 101
5.3.4 Displaying diagnostics results ................................................................................ 102
5.3.5 Saving results ......................................................................................................... 103
5.3.6 Viewing saved results ............................................................................................ 103
5.4 Factory calibration mode ............................................................................................ 103
5.5 Operating with archives .............................................................................................. 103
5.5.1 Operating with archives window ............................................................................ 104
5.5.2 Selecting data for copying window ......................................................................... 105
5.5.3 Copying window ..................................................................................................... 107
5.5.4 Copying from the archive in working folder RAPID to the external folder .............. 109
5.5.5 Copying from the archive in the external folder to the archive in the working folder
RAPID .............................................................................................................. 110
5.6 Security settings ......................................................................................................... 111
5.6.1 Users accounts managing ..................................................................................... 112
5.6.2 General parameters settings .................................................................................. 116
5.6.3 Audit logs browsing ................................................................................................ 118
5.6.4 Archiving settings ................................................................................................... 119
5.6.5 Digital files signing ................................................................................................. 120
5.6.6 History .................................................................................................................... 121

6 Operating with reports ........................................................................ 123

6.1 Report from Sample analysis and Diagnostics dialog windows ................................. 124
 Contents III

6.2 Report from the Calibration list window ...................................................................... 126

6.3 Report from the Measurement database window ....................................................... 128
6.4 Report from the Statistics list window ......................................................................... 129
6.5 Report from the “R-chart for repeatability conditions” and “Accuracy check using RM
or SRM” windows........................................................................................................ 131
6.6 Quick printing reports from Continuous measurement, Sample analysis, Air Analysis.
Monitoring, Factory Calibration and Diagnostics dialog windows .............................. 132
6.7 Selecting report template by default ........................................................................... 133
6.8 Template editor ........................................................................................................... 135
6.9 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from the Sample Analysis, Factory
calibration and Diagnostics windows .......................................................................... 138
6.10 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from the Calibration list window .... 141
6.11 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from the Measurements database
window ........................................................................................................................ 144
6.12 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from the Statistics list window ....... 146
6.13 Creating a template for reports from the “R-chart for repeatability conditions” and
“Accuracy check using RM or SRM” windows ............................................................ 147

7 RAPID Software installation ............................................................... 151

7.1 System requirements .................................................................................................. 151
7.2 Software installation ................................................................................................... 152

8 License Agreement ............................................................................. 155

 List of figures I

List of Figures

Fig. 2-1 RAPID software icon ................................................................................................................5

Fig. 2-2 RAPID splash screen ...............................................................................................................5
Fig. 2-3 Authorization dialog ..................................................................................................................6
Fig. 2-4 Main window .............................................................................................................................6
Fig. 2-5 Autosampler initialization information window ..........................................................................7
Fig. 3-1 Instrument information dialog ...................................................................................................9
Fig. 3-2 Instrument information dialog with the Autosampler connected ............................................11
Fig. 3-3 Software identification dialog ..................................................................................................11
Fig. 3-4 Instrument information dialog for operation without the instrument .......................................12
Fig. 3-5 Database dialog ......................................................................................................................13
Fig. 3-6 Instrument information dialog with current database .............................................................13
Fig. 4-1 Sample analysis dialog in the Calibration mode ....................................................................16
Fig. 4-2 Sample analysis dialog in the Analysis mode ........................................................................17
Fig. 4-3 Sample analysis window settings dialog ................................................................................26
Fig. 4-4 The RA-915Lab atomizer mode settings window...................................................................30
Fig. 4-5 Sample analysis dialog during measurement ........................................................................35
Fig. 4-6 Calibration parameters dialog ................................................................................................36
Fig. 4-7 Initial data dialog.....................................................................................................................38
Fig. 4-8 Manual selection of boundaries to calculate the peak area and height .................................39
Fig. 4-9 Automatic peak selection to calculate its area and height .....................................................40
Fig. 4-10 Calibration results dialog in the form of a graph ...................................................................41
Fig. 4-11 Calibration results dialog in the form of a table ....................................................................41
Fig. 4-12 Marking a sample as “outlier” on the plot .............................................................................44
Fig. 4-13 Marking a sample as “outlier” in the table ............................................................................44
Fig. 4-14 Marking points to be excluded from calibration on the plot ..................................................45
Fig. 4-15 Marking points to be excluded from calibration in the table .................................................45
Fig. 4-16 Select calibration dialog .......................................................................................................48
Fig. 4-17 Initial data dialog...................................................................................................................49
Fig. 4-18 Sample analysis dialog with the calculated mercury concentration .....................................51
Fig. 4-19 Determination of cursor coordinates ....................................................................................53
Fig. 4-20 Selecting a graph segment for zooming ...............................................................................54
Fig. 4-21 Legend ..................................................................................................................................56
II RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-22 Graph description dialog ...................................................................................................... 57

Fig. 4-23 Select operation mode dialog .............................................................................................. 58
Fig. 4-24 Sample analysis window settings dialog for the saved measurement ................................. 59
Fig. 4-25 Calibration list dialog ............................................................................................................ 60
Fig. 4-26 Calibration results dialog ...................................................................................................... 61
Fig. 4-27 List of measurements (Measurement database) dialog ....................................................... 63
Fig. 4-28 List of measurements. Settings ............................................................................................ 64
Fig. 4-29 List of measurements dialog with detailed information ........................................................ 65
Fig. 4-30 Sample selection in the List of measurements dialog window ............................................ 66
Fig. 4-31 Statistics dialog .................................................................................................................... 67
Fig. 4-32 Statistics dialog. Calculated parameters .............................................................................. 68
Fig. 4-33 Project settings dialog .......................................................................................................... 72
Fig. 4-34 Range dialog ........................................................................................................................ 74
Fig. 4-35 Project settings dialog with completed Ranges table .......................................................... 75
Fig. 4-36 Statistics list dialog ............................................................................................................... 76
Fig. 4-37 Statistics List dialog with detailed information ..................................................................... 77
Fig. 4-38 R-chart for repeatability conditions window ......................................................................... 79
Fig. 4-39 R-chart for repeatability conditions window (in the table view) ............................................ 81
Fig. 4-40 Accuracy check using RM or SRM window ......................................................................... 84
Fig. 4-41 Accuracy check using RM or SRM window (in the table view) ............................................ 84
Fig. 4-42 The Sample data window ..................................................................................................... 87
Fig. 4-43 Example of the Sample data window with filled information for samples ............................ 88
Fig. 4-44 The Sample analysis window with Autosampler connected ................................................ 89
Fig. 5-1 Settings dialog ........................................................................................................................ 94
Fig. 5-2 The RA-915Lab instrument settings dialog ............................................................................ 95
Fig. 5-3 The RA-915Lab instrument diagnostics dialog ...................................................................... 98
Fig. 5-4 The RA-915Lab instrument diagnostics window settings dialog ......................................... 100
Fig. 5-5 Instrument diagnostics during measurement dialog ............................................................ 102
Fig. 5-6 Operating with archives dialog ............................................................................................. 105
Fig. 5-7 Selecting data for copying dialog ......................................................................................... 106
Fig. 5-8 Copying dialog ..................................................................................................................... 108
Fig. 5-9 Copying dialog upon successful completion of the task ...................................................... 108
Fig. 5-10 Browse dialog..................................................................................................................... 109
Fig. 5-11 Finish work dialog .............................................................................................................. 112
Fig. 5-12 The Users tab of the Security settings window .................................................................. 113
Fig. 5-13 The Add a new user dialog ................................................................................................ 113
 List of figures III

Fig. 5-14 The Users tab of the Security setting window: After new user adding ...............................114
Fig. 5-15 The Change password dialog .............................................................................................114
Fig. 5-16 The Change user name dialog ...........................................................................................115
Fig. 5-17 The Language dialog ..........................................................................................................115
Fig. 5-18 Message: The user is locked ..............................................................................................116
Fig. 5-19 The General settings tab of the Security settings window .................................................117
Fig. 5-20 The Events audit tab of the Security settings window ........................................................118
Fig. 5-21 The Archiving tab of the Security setting window ...............................................................119
Fig. 5-22 The Signing files tab of the Security settings window ........................................................121
Fig. 5-23 The History tab of the Security setting window ..................................................................122
Fig. 6-1 ReportViewer window ...........................................................................................................125
Fig. 6-2 Print preview window ............................................................................................................126
Fig. 6-3 Report from the Calibration list dialog window .....................................................................127
Fig. 6-4 Report from the Measurement database dialog window ......................................................129
Fig. 6-5 Report from the Statistics list window...................................................................................130
Fig. 6-6 Report from the R-chart for repeatability conditions window ...............................................132
Fig. 6-7 Report template settings dialog ............................................................................................133
Fig. 6-8 Select template dialog ..........................................................................................................134
Fig. 6-9 Creating a report template for the Calibration list .................................................................135
Fig. 6-10 Creating a report template - Splitting layers at creating report template ............................136
Fig. 6-11 Creating a report template - Adding of a widget.................................................................137
Fig. 6-12 Creating a report template - The content of the widget does not fit the allocated layer size
...........................................................................................................................................................137
Fig. 6-13 Creating a report template - Widget settings ......................................................................138
 Section 1 Introduction 1

1 Introduction

1.1 How to use this Manual

This User’s Manual (hereinafter referred to as the Manual) provides

information and instructions about the installation and operation of the RAPID
software product. We assume that the users have a basic technical
knowledge and computer basics.

If you have any problems or questions, please contact the representative

office of LUMEX INSTRUMENTS in your region.

1.2 General description

RAPID software provides comprehensive and easy-to-use tools to control the

RA-915Lab mercury analyzers during determination of mercury in samples of
potable, natural and waste water, soil, food products, food stock, biological
samples, and hydrocarbons.

The RAPID software is intended for measurement of mercury content.

The Sample Analysis mode is intended for graphical and tabular visualization
of real-time signal measurements carried out with the use of the analyzer (with
or without the autosampler) and for mathematical processing of the signals
and calculating the mercury content in the samples using the previously
established calibrations.
 2 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

1.3 Regulatory Compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11

The RAPID software complies with all requirements of FDA 21 CFR Part 11 of
the Code of Federal Regulations of the United States Food and Drug
Administration (FDA).

The RAPID software is suitable for use within analytical systems complying
recommended principles of manufacturing and quality control (GMP).

Only authorized users can operate with the RAPID software. Access level to
the software functions and interface language for each user are set either by
the group manager created at the software installation or by the
manufacturer’s service engineers.

User’s passwords validity, software inactivity period before locking, number of

characters in the user’s password, permissible number of attempts to enter
the password and other parameters can be managed individually in
compliance with the security policy of the company within requirements of
FDA 21 CFR Part 11.

The RAPID software automatically saves information about all operations of

the user in the software by fixing user’s name, the date and time of event, the
event type etc. in the Audit log.

The RAPID software provides secure data management and digital signing of
all measurement results saved in the archive.

The RAPID software provides operation with all previously saved data with
checking them for forgery.

The RAPID software saves measurement results with binding them to the real
time, sample description, name of the user who performed measurements etc.

Measurement results in the lists can be exported to a text file (*.txt) for further
processing with another application.

The obtained results can be included in the report on the template set in
compliance with the requirements of the company. It is possible to include in
the template text, images, logos and other elements to be embedded in the
report.

The RAPID software provides identification of legally relevant module of the

software verifying its checksum using the MD5 algorithm in compliance with
FDA 21 CFR Part 11.
 Section 1 Introduction 3

1.4 Conventions and abbreviations

In this Manual, the following conventions are used:

Bold print Names of buttons and menu options, e.g.
Turn on, Continuous measurements.
Tabs of dialog windows, text boxes, switches, check
marks, drop-down lists and list boxes, e.g.
Frame time, Open, Show
Bold italic print Names of dialogs of the RAPID software, e.g.
Instrument Information
Printed text Names of files or directories, e.g.
C:\Program Files\Lumex\Rapid
Italic print Names of documents referenced in this Manual, e.g.
The RA-915Lab Operation Manual

The following warning symbols are used in the Manual:

Warning:
Used when there is a danger of the damage to the software or data if
you do not follow the precautions.

Indicates notes and additional information useful for operating

software and/or the analyzer.

The term “Instrument” is used in this Manual as an equivalent to the term

“mercury analyzer RA-915Lab”.

The term “mercury content” is used in this Manual as an umbrella term

signifying, as the situation may require, either “mass concentration” or “mass
fraction” or “mass”.

In the Manual, the term “mass concentration” can be given in a brief form
“concentration” provided the correspondence between these is obvious by
implication.
 Section 2 The first steps with RAPID software 5

2 The first steps with RAPID software

2.1 Starting RAPID software

To start operating the software, do the following:

• Connect to the PC and activate the analyzer according to the

Operation Manual.

• Turn on the computer by using a power on/off switch. The operating

system will load, and the Windows desktop screen will appear.

• Start the RAPID software. To do this, double left-click the software

icon (Fig. 2-1) on the Windows desktop screen or select the
submenu Programs – Lumex – Rapid from the START menu and
click Run Rapid.

Fig. 2-1 RAPID software icon

The software splash screen will appear (Fig. 2-2).

Fig. 2-2 RAPID splash screen

The splash screen will automatically disappear in 5 seconds. If you want to

remove it faster, place the cursor anywhere on the splash screen and left-click
it.
6 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

After the splash screen disappears, the Authorization window opens (Fig.
2-3). Choose the user’s name from the Name (Login) drop down list, enter
the password in the Password text field and press the Entry button. The Exit
button is designed for exiting from the software.

Fig. 2-3 Authorization dialog

Upon start-up, the software automatically establishes connection with the

analyzer.

After the authorization window disappears, the Main window will open (Fig.
2-4).

Fig. 2-4 Main window

If the autosampler is connected to the analyzer, its initialization will start, and
the information window (Fig. 2-5) will be displayed.
 Section 2 The first steps with RAPID software 7

Fig. 2-5 Autosampler initialization information window

2.2 Operation mode selection

The Main Menu (Fig. 2-4) is used to select the operation mode by means of
several buttons:

• The Sample Analysis button to establish the Sample analysis

operation mode (Par.4);

• The Settings button to open the Settings window (Par.5);

• The Instrument information button to get access to the information

on the instrument and to the off-line data treatment without
connection to the instrument (Par.3);

• The Help button to open the Help file of the RAPID software;

• The Exit button to exit the RAPID software.

2.3 Exiting the software

To exit the software, perform the following operations:

• Click the Exit icon or the cross in the top right corner of the
appropriate window provided you are in one of the software
operating windows (Fig. 4-1, Fig. 4-2, Fig. 5-3). The Main window
will appear on your screen (Fig. 2-4).

• Click the Exit button located in the Main window (Fig. 2-4).
8 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Warning:
Do not turn off or restart the PC with the Rapid software activated.
This can disrupt the software.

• If necessary, turn off the analyzer according to the Operation

Manual RA-915Lab.

It is recommended to turn off the analyzer if you do not intend to

operate the instrument for a long time.
 Section 3 Connecting the instrument and operating with previously stored data 9

3 Connecting the instrument and operating

with previously stored data

3.1 Connecting the instrument to the software

To connect the instrument and obtain the information about it, click the
Instrument information button in the Main menu (Fig. 2-4).

The Instrument information dialog window will open (Fig. 3-1).

The instrument connects to the software automatically, provided the

instrument is switched on and connected to the computer via the USB cable. If
not, select the instrument in the dropdown list in the Instrument connection
section and click the Connect button.

Fig. 3-1 Instrument information dialog

10 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Thereafter the information on the instrument connected will appear (Fig. 3-1):

• Instrument type;

• Serial number;

• Mainboard firmware version.

The Atomizer connection section is intended for connection of the analyzer’s

atomizer to the software. If the analyzer is connected to the PC and is
switched on, the atomizer connects to the RAPID software automatically, with
the “RA-915Lab atomizer” message being displayed in the Atomizer
connection section and the Disconnect button being active. If the atomizer
has not connected to the RAPID software automatically, press the Connect
button in the Atomizer connection section.

The Connecting autosampler section is designed for connection of

Autosampler device to the software. If the Autosampler device is on and is
connected to the PC, it will be automatically recognized by the RAPID
software, with “Autosampler” being displayed in the Connecting autosampler
section, and the Disconnect button being active (Fig. 3-2). If the Autosampler
has not connected to the RAPID software automatically, click the Connect
button in the Connecting autosampler section.

To open the Software identification dialog, click the Software identification

button in the Instrument information window (Fig. 3-3). This dialog displays
the following data: the software version, the name of the file comprising legally
relevant module, the checksum of this file and the algorithm for the checksum
calculation. To exit the Software identification dialog, click the Exit button.

The Instrument connection section displays all RA-915-type instruments

with appropriate serial numbers, which are connected to the computer with
USB cables. The operator may connect to any instrument included from this
list.

If any of instruments is connected to the software, the further work in dialog

boxes is possible only with the data obtained by the connected Instrument. To
gain access to the data that were obtained by another Instrument, disconnect
the connected device by selecting the mode No instrument and click the
Connect button (for more details see Par.3.2).
Section 3 Connecting the instrument and operating with previously stored data 11

Fig. 3-2 Instrument information dialog with the Autosampler connected

Fig. 3-3 Software identification dialog

 12 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

3.2 Operation with previously stored data

For each instrument, upon its connection to the software, a database is

automatically created, where the operator can save all data obtained during
measurements. All previously saved data can be viewed and processed. All
databases are saved in the repos folder of the Rapid working folder, which is
located in the folder specified at the software installation (see par. 7.2).

To view previously saved data for another instrument, disconnect the

instrument and select the database of the appropriate instrument. To do this:

• In the Instrument connection section, select No Instrument (Fig.

3-4);

• Click the Connect button;

Fig. 3-4 Instrument information dialog for operation without the instrument

• Click the Select button in the Off-line section;

 Section 3 Connecting the instrument and operating with previously stored data 13

• Select an appropriate instrument by left-clicking the mouse (Fig. 3-5);

Fig. 3-5 Database dialog

• Click the Select button. The serial number of the selected

instrument will be specified in the Current database box of the
Instrument information window (Fig. 3-6);

Fig. 3-6 Instrument information dialog with current database

14 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• Click the Exit button in order to exit the Instrument information

dialog (Fig. 3-6).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 15

4 Sample analysis

The Sample Analysis mode is intended for graphical and tabular visualization
of real-time signal measurements carried out with the use of the analyzer and
for mathematical processing of the signals and calculating the mercury
content in the samples using the previously established calibrations.

In the process of measurement, additional information can be displayed,

namely the value of the D parameter, which is used to check the correctness
of the sample input. This information, which is useful for skilled operators, is
accessible for all RA-915Lab instruments.

The software allows saving all data obtained during the measurement in the
database for the connected instrument with the possibility of their subsequent
viewing in both graphic and a tabular form. Using the data previously saved
for the analyzed samples, you can recalculate the mercury content.

The software provides the possibility to create calibrations and store them in
the instrument database.

The software saves the results of calculations of mercury content in the

analyzed samples for each instrument. It is also possible to save the results
as text files (in TXT format).

The software provides options for statistical data processing with subsequent
storage in the Statistic list.

It is also possible to create Shewhart control charts (R-chart for repeatability

conditions and Accuracy check using RM or SRM) using data stored in the
Statistic list. This option is available for versions 1.00.365 and later.

The software provides control of the atomizer of the RA-915Lab analyzer:

starting the atomizer operation in the selected mode, editing parameters of the
mode and saving them to the software archive. Also, the software controls the
autosampler operation (when operating the analyzer with the autosampler).

The dialog Sample Analysis is accessible when the instrument is both

connected and disconnected.
 16 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

4.1 Sample analysis dialog (basic functions)

The Sample analysis dialog window shown in Fig. 4-1, Fig. 4-2 contains the
Start/Pause/Continue button to start, stop and restart the measurement.

The bottom line of the Sample analysis dialog window is a status bar that
displays information about the software - instrument interaction condition.

If the instrument is connected to the program, the serial number and status of
the instrument are indicated in this line.

If no Instrument is connected to the program, this line indicates the viewing

data mode (see Par.3.2).

Fig. 4-1 Sample analysis dialog in the Calibration mode

 Section 4 Sample analysis 17

Fig. 4-2 Sample analysis dialog in the Analysis mode

If the measurement is being carried out, it displays “Measurement in process”.

If the measurement is stopped by pressing the Pause button, it displays

“Measurement is stopped”.

If during the measurement some parameters exceed the specified limits, an

appropriate red flashing message is displayed in the status bar. The flashing
message will disappear if these parameters get into the limits specified.

The Operating cell section displays the External cell (the built-in cell).

The Operation mode section represents two operation modes:

• Analysis (calculations of the mercury content in a sample using a

previously created calibration);

• Calibration (establishing a linear regression based on analytical

signals for calibration samples).

The Analysis operation mode additionally provides:

• The Choose calibration button to open the Choose calibration

window (for more details see Par.4.4.1);

• The Calibration box displaying the name of the calibration selected

in the Choose calibration window (for more details see Par.4.4.1)
used when calculating mercury content in the sample under analysis
18 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

(for more details see Par.4.4). If there is no calibration name

indicated in this box, therefore, no calibration was previously
created. For more details on calibration plotting, see Par.4.3;

• The Integrate button to calculate the area and peak height within
the time interval specified by the operator. The time interval
boundaries are to be set manually (for more details see Par.4.4.4);

• The Mark button to make visible a marker as a vertical line in the

graph when this button is clicked during measurement. Upon
clicking, the name of this button is altered to the Mark and
Integrate button. The Mark button is active only when the data is
being received from the instrument, i.e. when the analytical signal is
being plotted. It is convenient to use this option to mark the instant
of the sample input (for more details see Par. 4.3.4);

• The Mark and Integrate button for repeated marking as a vertical

line to specify a peak and to calculate the peak area and height
within the time interval limited by the marks (for more details see
Par. 4.3.4);

• The Sample description box to put in the sample description prior

to integration;

• The Mass (Volume) box to put in the mass or the volume of the
sample under analysis depending on the settings prior to the
operation of integration;

• The table with the initial data and results of calculation of mercury
content in the sample consisting of 13 columns:

No. is the sequential sample number;

Sample description is the sample description for the given

calculation. Filled by the operator and is editable;

Mass (Volume) for selecting mass of volume of the sample

(depending on the settings). This parameter may be
edited;

Units for selecting measurements units for mass or volume

of the sample. The column is completed automatically
according to the settings of the Sample analysis
window settings window (for more details see Par.4.2);

Concentration is the calculated value of mercury content in

the sample with the use of the selected calibration,
 Section 4 Sample analysis 19

specified values of the sample mass (volume) and the

calculated value of the analytical signal peak area (or
height);

Units for selecting the measurements units for mercury

content in the sample. The column is completed
automatically according to the settings of the window
Sample analysis window settings (for more details see
Par.4.2);

Mercury mass, ng for the calculated value of mercury mass

in the sample with the use of the selected calibration and
the calculated value of the analytical signal peak area (or
height);

Area is the calculated peak area of the analytical signal for

the specified time interval;

Height is the calculated peak height of the analytical signal

for the specified time interval;

Interval, s is the time interval selected by the operator for

calculation of the analytical signal peak area and height;

Calibration is the name of the calibration for calculation of

the mercury content in the sample;

∆D is the numeric value of the ∆D parameter within the time

interval specified by the operator.

D = Dmax − Dleft , (4.1)

where Dmax is the maximum value of the D parameter within the

interval where the peak area (height) is being calculated;

Dleft is the value of the D parameter at the left limit of the specified
time interval where the peak area is calculated.

Cref is the mercury content reference value for the i-th

sample. This parameter may be edited;

d, % is the relative deviation of the calculated mercury

content from the reference value:

Ci ,calc − Сi,ref
di =  100 (4.2)
Сi ,ref
20 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

where Ci,calc is the calculated mercury content in the sample (from

the Concentration column),Ci,ref is the mercury content reference
value for the i-th sample.

The filled rows appear in the Table only upon clicking either the
Integrate or the Mark and Integrate button.

• The Save button to save all the information selected in the table
rows (entries) in the Measurement database (Par.4.9);

• The Delete button to delete the selected rows (entries) from the
table;

• The Statistics button to view the X mean and the Standard

Deviation (SD) for the concentration, mass and area values, as well
as the Relative Standard Deviation (RSD), the Relative Spread, the
Number of measurements (N) for the selected rows (entries). By
pressing the Save button in the opened Statistics dialog window,
the calculated parameters are saved in the Statistics list with
statistic processing being performed using the By default project
(Par.4.10).

• The Measurement database button to open the Measurement

database window (Par.4.9).

• The Statistics list button to open the Statistics list window

(Par.4.10.2).

In the Calibration mode, there are the following options available in the
Sample Analysis window:

• The Integrate button functioning similar to that in the Analysis

mode;

• The Mark/Mark and Integrate button functioning similar to that in

the Calibration mode;

• Box Sample description to enter the description of the sample prior

to integration;

• The ref.data box to enter the mercury content reference data for
the sample prior to integration;

• The Mass (Volume) box to put in the mass or the volume of the
sample (depending on the settings) prior to integration;
 Section 4 Sample analysis 21

• The Blank checkbox for ticking (tick removal) at the corresponding

sample. The set tick indicates that the data for the ticked samples
will be used as a background in calculation of the calibration plot.
This checkbox can be ticked prior to integration;

• The Calibration settings button to open the Calibration settings

window (Par.4.3.2);

• The table containing initial data to calculate the calibration which

consists of 13 columns:

Checkbox column (the leftmost column) to choose rows

(entries) involved in calculation of the calibration;

No. is the sequential sample number;

Sample description is the description for the sample. The

text is editable;

Blank checkbox for selecting samples that will be used as

blanks in calculation of the calibration plot (the data for
these samples should be also ticked in the leftmost
column). This parameter can be edited;

ref. data is the mercury content reference value for the

sample. This parameter can be edited;

Units to display the measurement units for the reference

data of the mercury content in the sample. The units are
automatically entered according to the settings of the
Sample analysis window settings window (for more
details see Par.4.2);

Mass/Volume is the mass or volume of the sample

(depending on settings). This parameter can be edited;

UM to display the measurements units of the sample mass

or volume. It is automatically completed according to the
settings of the window Sample analysis window
settings (for more details see Par.4.2);

Area is the calculated peak area of the analytical signal for

the specified time interval;

Height is the calculated peak height of the analytical signal

for the specified time interval;
22 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Measurement date/time to display the date and time of the

measurement (start of the data graph plotting);

Interval, s is the time interval selected by the operator for

calculation of the analytical signal peak area and height;

∆D is the output of the numeric value of the ∆D parameter.

The filled rows appear in the Table only upon clicking either the
Integrate or the Mark and Integrate button.

• The Calculate calibration button to open the Calibration results

window (for more details see Par.4.3.5). Calculation is possible only
if samples for the calculation have been selected (checked) in the
table and the reference value and mass (volume) have been
specified for these samples;

• The Calibration list button to open the Calibration list window (for
more details see Par.4.8);

• The Delete button to delete the selected rows (entries) from the
table.

The RA-915Lab atomizer control section of the Sample analysis window is

designed for managing the atomizer operation in the selected mode. Mode is
a set of time intervals, during which values of temperatures of the evaporator
and the analytical cell as well as flow rates of the gas-carrier and the window
protecting gas in the atomizer are maintained at the set levels. The window
protecting gas is a gas which presses the carrier gas from the analytical cell
windows.

Each mode comprises the initial stage and the scenario containing up to 50
numbered stages of opeartion. Duration of the initial stage of each mode is
unlimited. The initial stage implies operation at the default values of
temperatures and flow rates whereas the numbered stages are intended for
the operation with the customized settings.

The RA-915Lab atomizer control section contains the following elements:

• The drop-down list in which a mode can be selected;

• The Start/Stop button – for starting/stopping the atomizer operation at

the initial stage of the selected mode;
 Section 4 Sample analysis 23

• The Start scenario/Stop scenario button – for starting/stopping the

atomizer operation at the numbered stages of the selected mode;

• Table of current values – for displaying current stage, temperatures of

the evaporator and the analytical cell and flow rate of the gas-carrier;

• The Time, s field – for displaying the time remaining to the end of the
scenario stage (the field fills in automatically upon pressing the Start
scenario button).

The table with current values is displayed if the appropriate box

is checked in the RA-915Lab atomizer settings section of the
Sample analysis window settings window

The button located above the table with the initial data in both Analysis
and Calibration operation modes allows expanding the table column with the
initial data for easier viewing. To return the window to its previous state, press
the button appeared right above the expanded table with the initial data.

The Current signal section displays the arithmetical mean value (X mean) for
the analytical signal and the standard deviation calculated by the last N points
of the running measurement. The N value is specified by the operator in
settings of this window (Par.4.2).

The Graph description text box is designed to enter information on the

measurements. To move the cursor to the next line in this text field, use the
Ctrl+Enter key combination. The description of the graph is saved along with
all the data in the database of the Instrument.

There are special icons grouped on the toolbar that are used for fast execution
of certain commands.

Icons to operate with data:

Clear deletes all data from the program window. The icon duplicates the
menu command File/Clear (for more details see Par.4.4.6).

Open opens the measurement database. The icon duplicates the menu
command File/Open (for more details see Par.4.6).

Save saves the measurement results. The icon duplicates the menu
command File/Save (for more details see Par.4.7).
24 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Print prints reports from the Continuous measurements, Sample

analysis and Diagnostics windows. The icon duplicates the menu command
File/Print (for more details see Par.6.3).

Help opens the Help file of the RAPID software. The icon duplicates the
menu command Help/Help.

Data view icons:

Plot displays the data as a graph. The icon duplicates the menu
command View/Plot (for more details see Par.4.4.6).

Table displays the data as a table. The icon duplicates the menu
command View/Table (for more details see Par.4.4.6).

Table below plot displays the data as a graph and as a table located
under the graph. The icon duplicates the menu command View/Table below
plot (for more details see Par.4.4.6).

Table to the right of the plot displays the data as a graph and as a
table located to the right of the graph. The icon duplicates the menu command
View/ Table to the right of the plot (for more details see Par.4.4.6).

Window settings opens the window of the Sample analysis window

settings. The icon duplicates the menu command View/Window settings (for
more details see Par.4.2).

Icons for graphic data display:

The icons are active only with graphic data available in the program window.

Left shift shifts the window to the left by the X axis. The icon duplicates
the menu command View/Left shift (for more details see Par.4.5.5).

Right shift shifts the window to the right by the X-axis. The icon
duplicates the menu command View/Right shift (for more details see
Par.4.5.5).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 25

Full-screen sets the view of all data. The icon duplicates the menu
command View/ Full-screen (for more details see Par.4.5.4).

Y-axis autoscale performs autoscaling by the Y-axis. The icon

duplicates the menu command View/Y-axis autoscale (for more details see
Par.4.5.3).

Undo (scale) returns to the previous view. The icon duplicates the menu
command View/Cancel (scale) (for more details see Par.4.5.5).

Redo (scale) restores the scale. The icon duplicates the menu
command View/Change back (scale) (for more details see Par.4.5.5).

Icon to exit the dialog window:

Exit brings back to the Main program window (Fig. 2-4).

4.2 Setting sample analysis window

To put settings for the Sample analysis window, select the View/Window

settings menu item or click the appropriate icon on the toolbar of the
Sample analysis window (Fig. 4-1, Fig. 4-2). The Sample analysis window
settings dialog window will open (Fig. 4-3).
26 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-3 Sample analysis window settings dialog

In the Data view settings section specify the following parameters:

• Number of points for mean and SD calculation is the number of

points to calculate the X mean and standard deviation (the
reference range for this parameter is from 30 to 300);

• Show warnings during measurements is for setting whether to

display warnings (e.g. if the D parameter exceeds the threshold
value) during the mercury content estimation or not. By default, the
checkbox is checked, and warnings are displayed during
measurements. To prevent messages from displaying, uncheck the
corresponding checkbox.

• Baseline interpolation is selection of baseline type correction in

calculation of the peak area and height:

− By one point – the baseline is a horizontal line drawn through the

point located at the left (starting) boundary of the time interval set
by the operator. Hence, the baseline signal value is equal to the
 Section 4 Sample analysis 27

arithmetical mean of N values of the analytical signal preceding

the left boundary of the specified interval;

− By two points – the baseline is a line drawn through the points

located on the left and right boundaries of the time interval
specified by the operator. Hence, the baseline signal value is
equal to the arithmetical mean of N values of the analytical signal
preceding the boundary of the specified interval and N values of
the analytical signal following after the right boundary of the
specified interval respectively;

− Number of points for averaging is the number of points by which

the average values for calculation of the baseline signal values are
calculated.

• Value (Sample section) is for selecting the value to represent

quantity of the sample (mass or volume). This setting depends on
the type of the cell selected in the Sample analysis window (Fig.
4-1, Fig. 4-2). If an external cell is selected, both mass and volume
will be available as a value;

• Units (Sample section) for selecting of measurement units in which

the chosen quantity (see above) of the sample will be represented.
If the value is mass, the units are mg or g. If the value is volume, the
measurement units are ml, l;

• Decimals (Sample section) the number of decimals to express the

quantity (mass or volume) of the sample. The range is 0 to 6;

• Units (Concentration section) for selection of measurement units

for the mercury content calculated for the sample and for the
reference value entered by the operator. If the sample quantity
value is mass, the following measurement units are available: ppb,
ppm, g/kg, and mg/kg. If the sample value is represented as
volume: mg/l, g/l, ppb, ppm.

• Decimals (Concentration section) is the number of decimals for

the mercury content value (see above). The range is 0 to 6.

In the Plot view settings section set the following parameters:

• Plot view is for selecting the way to draw a plot in the Sample
analysis window. There are three options available from the drop-
down list: Scatter graph, Line, Line and scatter;
28 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• Signal plot is for setting a colour and a style of the output signal
lines. By clicking the button, specify the plot colour and select
the desired line style in the drop-down list;

• D plot is for setting whether to display the D parameter on the plot

or not, setting of colour and type of D parameter lines represented.
To display the D plot, tick the appropriate checkbox. By clicking the
button, set the plot colour and select the desired line style in the
drop-down list;

• PMT current is for setting whether to display the PMT current on

the plot or not, setting of colour and the type of PMT current line
style. To display the PMT current plot, tick the appropriate
checkbox. By clicking the button, set the plot colour and select
the desired line style in the drop-down list.

• Show on measurements is for setting of the time interval in the plot

view. To display all data, tick the All data toggle. To display data
within a specified interval, tick the In the specified interval toggle
and enter the desired interval duration in the Interval duration box
(in minutes);

• Area is setting of a color to shade the peak area of which the

boundaries are marked by the operator. Set the shade color using
the button;

It is possible to change the following parameters in the Sample

analysis window settings dialog during measurements in the Baseline
interpolation, Sample and Concentration sections.
If previously obtained data are stored in the table along with the
initial data and the mercury content in the sample or initial data for
calibration, no recalculation on the basis of new settings will be
performed. The changed settings will be applied only for newly
calculated data on mercury concentration in the analyzed samples.

• Autosave section is for saving the results of the mercury content

determination automatically to the measurement database. To save
the result of integration (mercury content calculation) in the Sample
analysis window (Analysis mode) to the measurement database
(par. 4.9) automatically, check the Automatically save the result
to the List of measurements checkbox. By default, the checkbox
is unchecked. To save the result manually, follow the instructions of
par. 4.4.5;
 Section 4 Sample analysis 29

• Automatic completion of integration is for automatic

determination of mercury content in the Analysis mode. To
calculate the mercury content automatically when the specified time
has elapsed after clicking the Mark button in the Sample analysis
window (Analysis mode), check the Enable checkbox and type
necessary value into the Integration time, s input field (valid range
of values is 10 – 10 000 s). By default, the checkbox is unchecked,
and integration should be done manually according to par. 4.3.4 and
par. 4.4.4.

The PYRO915+ attachment settings section is available only when the

PYRO-915+ attachment is connected to the RAPID software.

Set the following settings in the RA-915Lab atomizer settings section:

• Display current values – when cheking the Display current values

box, the table containing current values of the mode parameters
(temperatures and flow rates) is displayed in the Sample analysis
window. By default, the box is unchecked and the table is not displayed
in the Sample analysis window.

• Modes settings button opens the RA-915Lab atomizer mode settings

window (Fig. 4-4).
30 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-4 The RA-915Lab atomizer mode settings window

The RA-915Lab atomizer mode settings window (Fig. 4-4) contains the list
of modes and the table displaying the parameters of the selected mode. The
table contains the following columns:

• Stage - the column displays stages of the atomizer operation. The

duration of the initial stage is unlumited. To start the initial stage, press
the Start button in the RA-915Lab atomizer control section of the
Sample analysis window. To start numbered stages, press the Start
scenario button in the RA-915Lab atomizer control section of the
 Section 4 Sample analysis 31

Sample analysis window. After completion of the last numbered stage,

the atomizer returns to the initial stage of operation.

• Duration, s – for input of the stage duration (in seconds). The duration of
the initial stage cannot be set. Stages of zero duration will be ignored
when operating at numbered stages by clicking the Start scenario
button;

• Tev – for input of the temperature of the evaporator (in °C);

• Tc – for input of the temperature of the analytical cell (in °C);

• Q, l/min – for input of the flow rate of the gas-carrier (in l/min);

• Window protecting gas flow, % box - for input of the flow rate of the
window protecting gas (in % of the set value of the carrier-gas).

The Control parameters section contains the parameters for additional scenario
control.

Additional scenario control is designed for prevention of signal saturation while

measuring samples with high mercury content.

In order to activate the additional control function, check the box Enable ext
scenario control.

Additional control is performed using feedback from signal magnitude (S-control) or

parameter D (D-control).

Additional control is performed by setting the temperature of the evaporator as zero

and pausing countdown time of atomizer at corresponding stage when signal
magnitude or parameter D cross the set thresholds.

When scenario is created the user can set three thresholds for signal magnitude or
parameter D control:
a. L1 – lower threshold;
b. L2 – upper threshold (L2 must always be higher than L1);
c. R – limiting rate of signal increase.

L1, L2 and R parameters are chosen for every scenario.

The Save button is intended for saving either created scenario or changes made for
the chosen scenario (available only for Service Engineer user). All scenarios for the
connected analyzer are stored in the repos/piro2_db.repos file.

The Add button is designed for creating a new scenario (available only for Service
Engineer user).
32 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

The Delete button is designed for deleting the chosen from the dropdown list
scenario (available only for Service Engineer user).

Checking the Locking the boat sensor box enables operation with the analyzer in
manual mode (when the autosampler is not connected to the analyzer). When the
autosampler is connected to the analyzer the checkbox is disabled and the analyzer
operates in automatic mode.

Set the following settings int the Data view section:

• Carrier gas flow Qc.g. is for setting whether to display the carrier gas
flow on the plot or not, setting the colour and type of the carrier gas flow
lines represented. To display the carrier gas flow, tick the Show
checkbox. By clicking the button, set the plot colour and select the
desired line style in the drop-down list;

• Window protecting gas flow Qw.p.g. is for setting whether to display

the window protecting gas flow on the plot or not, setting the colour and
type of the window protecting gas flow lines represented. To display the
window protecting gas flow, tick the Show checkbox. By clicking the
button, set the plot colour and select the desired line style in the
drop-down list;

• Evaporator temperature Tev is for setting whether to display the

evaporator temperature on the plot or not, setting the colour and type of
the evaporator temperature lines represented. To display the
evaporator temperature, tick the Show checkbox. By clicking the
button, set the plot colour and select the desired line style in the drop-
down list;

• Analytical cell temperature Tc is for setting whether to display the

analytical cell temperature on the plot or not, setting the colour and type
of the analytical cell temperature lines represented. To display the
analytical cell temperature, tick the Show checkbox. By clicking the
button, set the plot colour and select the desired line style in the
drop-down list.

The Save button is intended for saving settings made in the Data view section.

The Help button opens the Help file of the RAPID software.

The Exit button brings back to the Sample analysis window settings window.

To save the specified settings, click Apply in the window Sample analysis
window settings;
 Section 4 Sample analysis 33

To cancel the settings, click Cancel in the window Sample analysis window
settings.

4.3 Sample analysis window in the Calibration mode

Prior to calculating the mercury content in the sample of interest, you need to
calibrate the analyzer. The calibration results in establishing a calibration plot
representing the peak area or height of the signal as a function of the mercury
mass.

The basic operations to obtain the calibration plot are as follows.

1. Select the Calibration mode from the drop-down list in the Operation
mode (Fig. 4-1).

2. Enter the reference value for mercury content in the calibration sample
in the ref. data box (for more details see Par.4.3.3). This value can also
be entered in the ref. data column of the source data table after
calculation of the peak area and height (for more details see Par.4.3.4).

3. Enter mass or volume of the sample in the Mass (Volume) box (for
more details see Par.4.3.3). This value can also be entered in the Mass
(Volume) column of the initial data table after calculation of the peak
area and height (for more details see Par.4.3.4).

4. Enter the description for the sample in the Sample description box (for
more details see Par.4.3.3). The description can also be entered in the
Sample description column of the initial data table after calculation of
the peak area and height (for more details see Par.4.3.4).

5. Tick the Blank box if it is necessary to mark the sample as blank. The
Blank column can also be ticked in the initial data table after
calculation of the peak area and height (for more details see Par.4.3.4).

6. Put in the chosen mass (volume) of the sample into the analyzer and
measure the analytical signal vs. time (for more details see Par.4.3.1)

7. Set the time interval limiting the peak corresponding to the mercury
content in the analyzed sample using a frame or appropriate markers
on the registered signal plot (for more details see Par.4.3.4).
 34 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

8. Click Integrate or Mark and Integrate button (depending on the peak

selection method) to calculate the peak area and height within the
specified time interval (for more details see Par.4.3.4).

To calculate correctly the parameters of the calibration plot, carry

out similar operations with several samples. Be guided on the
required number of samples by the relevant techniques for specific
cases of analysis.

9. In the leftmost column of the table, tick the samples to be taken in

calculation of the calibration plot.

10. In the Blank column, tick the samples to be taken in calculation of the
blank values of Sblank or Hblank, if applicable.

11. Click the Calibration settings button. In the opened New calibration
settings window specify the calibration parameters (the calibration
equation and the regression algorithm) according to Par.4.3.2.

12. Click Calculate calibration to calculate the calibration based on the

parameters specified. The Calibration results window will open (for
more details see Par.4.3.5);

13. Specify the name of calibration (for more details see Par.4.3.5).

14. Save the calculated calibration (for more details see Par.4.3.5).

All calculated calibrations are stored in the calibrations database for the
specified operating cell. This database can be viewed and previously created
calibrations may be recalculated (for more details see Par.4.3.2).

4.3.1 Measuring signal upon sample input

Prior to starting measurement, make all necessary window settings (for more
details see Par.4.2). To perform measurements, do the following:

1. Click the Start button to start measurement. The Instrument goes to

processing (Fig. 4-5).

2. Insert a necessary mass or volume of a reference sample with known

mercury content in the analyzer cell. Wait for the peak to appear on the
plot.
 Section 4 Sample analysis 35

3. To stop measurement, click the Pause button.

4. To restart measurement, click Continue button in the Sample analysis

dialog window (Fig. 4-5).

Fig. 4-5 Sample analysis dialog during measurement

For convenience in examining the data obtained, use the Icons to operate
graphic data (for more details see Par.4.1).

4.3.2 Setting calibration parameters

Before calculating calibration based on the calibration samples marked by the

operator, you need to specify the parameters of the calibration calculated.

To specify the calibration parameters:

1. Click the Calibration settings button in the Sample analysis dialog

window (Fig. 4-5).

2. In the opened dialog window (Fig. 4-6), in the Choose calibration

section, select the New calibration item in the Name list box if you
need to create a new calibration. To edit a previously created
calibration, select its name from this list.
36 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-6 Calibration parameters dialog

3. From the Calibration drop-down list in the Calculation settings

section select the calibration equation type. It is possible to choose one
of two types of calibration equations:

S - S blank = a  m (4.3)

or Н - Н blank = a·m , (4.4)

where S and H are the peak area and peak height, respectively, of
the analytical signal from the calibration samples;

Sblank and Hblank are the peak area and height, respectively, of the
analytical signal for calibration samples marked as blank;

m is the mercury mass in the sample;

a is the regression factor (slope).

The mercury mass is calculated by the formula:

m = m samp  С ref (4.5)

 Section 4 Sample analysis 37

or m = V  С ref (4.6)
,

where m and V are mass and volume of the sample;

Cref is the reference value of mercury content in the sample.

4. Select the algorithm from the Algorithm drop-down list in the

Calculation settings section making choice between two possibilities:

LSM – Least-squares method;

WLSM – Weighted least-squares method.

5. Click Apply in the Calibration settings dialog window to exit with

saving of settings selected.

6. Click Cancel in the Calibration settings dialog window to exit without

saving of settings selected.

In the Calibration settings dialog window, the calibration samples that were
used in the previously saved calibrations can be marked in the table of the
source data in the Sample analysis window. This is a convenient option for
editing the earlier created calibrations.

To do this, you should:

1. Select the name of the required calibration in the Name list box in the
Choose calibration section. Upon this, the date and time of calibration
plotting, calibration equation and values of regression coefficients a and
Sblank (or Hblank) will be displayed in the respective boxes.

2. Click Apply. The leftmost column of the initial data table in the Sample
analysis dialog window will show marks opposite the samples which
were taken in calculation of the selected calibration.

4.3.3 Setting sample description, reference value and sample mass

(volume)

The sample description, its reference value and mass (volume) can be
entered in the boxes Sample description, Cref, and Mass (Volume),
respectively, as well as in the columns Sample description, Cref, and Mass
(Volume) of the table with the initial data in the Sample analysis window (Fig.
4-1). Input of values is possible both before calculation of the peak area and
height and after it.
 38 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Units of measurement and the number of decimals for the entered values
depend on the settings specified in the window Sample analysis window
settings of the Concentration and Sample sections (Fig. 4-3).

All data entered in the columns Sample description, ref. data and Mass
(Volume) are automatically saved in the calibration samples database.

If these parameters have not been specified prior to calculation of the peak
area and height (see Par.4.3.4) and the operator starts the calculation, these
parameters should be entered in the Initial data window (Fig. 4-7), which
opens on clicking the Integrate or Mark buttons in the Sample analysis
window (Fig. 4-1).

Fig. 4-7 Initial data dialog

Click Apply to close the Initial data window (Fig. 4-7) with saving of all
entered values.

Click Cancel to exit from the Initial data window (Fig. 4-7) without saving of
all entered values.

4.3.4 Allocation of the peak boundaries and calculation of its area

and height

To highlight the peak boundaries, you should:

1. Measure the sample of interest to display the peak (for more details see
Par.4.3.1) or fetch a previously conducted and saved measurement
from the database (for more details see Par.4.7).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 39

2. Select the peak of interest using one of two methods:

• Manual peak selection method. To do this,

Using the left button of mouse, select the peak of interest by

frame, with peak boundaries set by positions of left and
right sides of the frame (Fig. 4-8);

Zoom the selected peak by moving the left and right frame
edges using the mouse;

The resulting rectangle can be moved to any area of the plot.

To do this, place the cursor inside the frame, left-click and
hold it down draging the cursor to the desired place;

To undo selecting, left-click outside the frame;

Click Integrate to calculate the peak area and height within

the specified frame. In the table with the initial data the
row appears which displays the values of the peak area
and height.

The manual peak selection can be performed during measurement as

well as when calling up a measurement from the database.

Fig. 4-8 Manual selection of boundaries to calculate the peak area and height

• Automatic peak selection. To do this:

 40 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Click the Mark button during measurement to put the marker

in the form of a vertical line at the initial point of the time
interval (at the moment of sample input). In this case the
button label changes to Mark and Integrate;

Click the Mark and Integrate button to put the marker in the
form of a vertical line at the endpoint of the time interval
and to calculate the peak area and height within thus set
time interval (Fig. 4-9). In the table of the initial data a row
will appear with the values of the peak area and height
displayed.

Automatic peak selection can be performed only during

measurement.

Fig. 4-9 Automatic peak selection to calculate its area and height

4.3.5 Calculating calibration results

To enter the Calibration results window, in the Sample analysis dialog

window (Fig. 4-1) select the samples, which will be involved in the calculation
of the calibration equation by ticking the appropriate lines in the leftmost
 Section 4 Sample analysis 41

column of the table and click Calculate calibration button. The Calibration
results dialog window will open (Fig. 4-10, Fig. 4-11).

Fig. 4-10 Calibration results dialog in the form of a graph

Fig. 4-11 Calibration results dialog in the form of a table

The basic characteristics of a new calibration are as follows:

• Type of the calibration equation indicated in the Calibration box;

• Calculated value of the regression coefficient a;

42 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• Calculated value of Sblank (or Hblank) coefficient.

Parameters characterizing the calibration quality:

• correlation coefficient calculated by the formula:

n

 (C i , ref − Сˆ ref )  (Сi , calc − Сˆ calc )

r= i =1
1/ 2 (4.7)
 n n
ˆ 2 
 ( 
 i =1
(Ci, ref − С ref 
ˆ ) 2  (C
i =1
i , calc − Ccalc ) ) 


1 n 1 n
Сˆ ref =  Ci , ref , Сˆ calc =  Ci ,calc , (4.8)
n i =1 n i =1

where Сi ,ref is the mercury content reference value for the i-th
sample;

Сi ,calc is the mercury content calculated value for the i-th sample;

С̂ ref is the mean value of the reference values;

С̂ calc is the mean value of the calculated values;

n is the number of samples.

• residual standard deviation calculated by the formula:

n

 (C i ,calc − Сi ,ref ) 2
(4.9)
= i =1
.
n −1

The initial data by which the calibration is plotted are displayed as a graph and
as a table. To change between these two options, apply toggles in the Data
view section of the Calibration results window.

The plot view provides mapping the points corresponding to the samples
involved in the calculation of the regression coefficient a as a function of the
mass of mercury in coordinates (S - Sblank) or (H - Hblank).

The calibration equation is also shown in the respective box.

The table view provides information on each sample involved in the calibration
in a separate row of the table. This table consists of seven columns:
 Section 4 Sample analysis 43

• The leftmost nameless column is designed to set or remove the

control tick for the samples to be included in the calibration or
excluded from it respectively;

• No. is the number of the sample in the list;

• Mercury mass, ng is the mercury mass in the sample;

• S-Sblank (or H-Hblank) is the value of the peak area or peak

height, respectively, for the calibration sample;

• Ref.data is the reference value of mercury content in the sample;

• Calc.data is the mercury content in the sample calculated on the

basic of the calibration plot;

• d, % is the relative deviation of the calculated mercury content from

the reference value:

Ci ,calc − Сi,ref
di =  100 (4.10)
Сi ,ref

The Calibration results window also displays the following elements:

• The Calib name box to enter the name of the established

calibration;

• The Outliers section to enter a criterion for assessment of the

relative deviation for each sample. If the d value of a sample
exceeds the value entered in the Outliers box, this sample is
considered to be an outlier. To visualize the outliers, click the Mark
button in the Outliers section. The outliers will be coloured in red in
the plot and the corresponding row will turn red in the table (Fig.
4-12, Fig. 4-13);

• The Mask selected points button to recalculate the calibration

without outliers. You can mask the sample (to remove it from the
calibration) in two ways:

by positioning the cursor at the corresponding point on the

plot and left-clicking it (a square will appear around this
point (Fig. 4-14);

by ticking the leftmost column of the table in the row for the
corresponding sample using the left button of the mouse
(Fig. 4-15). Repeated clicking removes the tick.
44 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-12 Marking a sample as “outlier” on the plot

Fig. 4-13 Marking a sample as “outlier” in the table

 Section 4 Sample analysis 45

Fig. 4-14 Marking points to be excluded from calibration on the plot

Fig. 4-15 Marking points to be excluded from calibration in the table

 46 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• The button Undo changes to cancel all changes in the calibration

and to return to the initial calibration;

• The Save button to save the created calibration plot in the List of
calibrations (for more details see Par.4.8), to close the Calibration
results window and to return to the Sample analysis window (Fig.
4-2).

• The Exit button to close the Calibration results window and to

return into the Sample analysis window (Fig. 4-2) without saving
the calibration.

4.4 Sample Analysis window in the Analysis mode

The main operations to determine the mercury content in the sample under
analysis comprise the following:

1. In the Operation mode section, select the Analysis mode from the
drop-down list (Fig. 4-2).

2. Click Choose calibration. In the opened Choose calibration dialog

window select the working calibration (according to Par.4.4.2)
corresponding to the operating cell by which you are going to perform
the analysis of samples.

3. In the Mass (Volume) line, enter the sample mass (volume) value. This
value may also be entered in the Mass (Volume) column of the initial
data table after calculation of the peak area and height (for more details
see Par.4.4.3).

4. In the Sample description line, enter the description for the sample.
The description may also be entered in the Sample description
column of the initial data table after calculation of the peak area and
height (for more details see Par.4.4.3).

5. Measure the analyzer signal during the sample input in the instrument
(for more details see Par.4.3.1).

6. By using a frame or appropriate markers, specify the time interval that

bounds the peak corresponding to the mercury content in the analyzed
sample on the signal graph (for more details see Par.4.3.4).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 47

7. Click the Integrate or Mark and Integrate button (depending on the

way of peak marking) to calculate the peak area and height within the
specified time interval (for more details see Par.4.3.4).

8. The Mercury mass, ng column will display the value of mercury mas
(in ng). The Concentration column will display the calculated value of
mercury mass concentration or mass fraction in the sample provided
the sample mass (volume) is nonzero.

9. To save the result in the measurement database, select the

measurement using the left mouse button and click Save. The icon
will appear near the saved measurement indicating that this
measurement is saved (for more details see Par.4.9).

You may recalculate the mass (or concentration) for the sample using another
calibration corresponding to the operating cell by selecting the required
calibration from the drop-down list in the Calibration column.

4.4.1 Measuring signal upon sample input

Before starting the signal measurement, apply the required settings (for more
details see Par.4.2). To perform the measurement, proceed as follows:

1. Click the Start button to start the measurement in the Sample

analysis dialog window (Fig. 4-5).

2. To stop the measurement, click the Pause button in the Sample

analysis dialog window (Fig. 4-5).

3. To continue the measurement, click Continue in the Sample analysis

dialog window (Fig. 4-5).

To examine the data conveniently, use the Icons for data display (for more
details see Par.4.1).

4.4.2 Selecting working calibration

To select a working calibration, do the following:

1. Click the Choose calibration button in the Sample analysis dialog

window (Fig. 4-5).
48 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

2. In the opened dialog window (Fig. 4-16), select the name of the
required calibration in the Name list box of the Calibrations section.
Only calibrations corresponding to the previously chosen cell in the
Sample analysis window are listed.

Fig. 4-16 Select calibration dialog

Click the Apply button. The window will be shut down and the selected
calibration name will be displayed in the Calibration box above the table with
the concentration calculation results of the Sample analysis window (Fig.
4-2).

The Select calibration window opens upon clicking the Details… button,
displaying initial data by which the calibration was created as well as the
results of calibration plotting as a graph or as a table (for more details see
Par. 4.7).

To get help in the Select calibration window, click the Help button.

To exit the Select calibration window, click the Cancel button.

 Section 4 Sample analysis 49

4.4.3 Entering sample mass (volume) and sample description

Enter the sample description and the value of its mass (volume) in the boxes
Sample description and Mass (Volume) respectively, as well as in the
columns Sample description and Mass (Volume) of the initial data table of
the Sample analysis window (Fig. 4-2). These values can be entered both
before and after calculation of the peak area and height.

Units of measurement and the number of decimals for the entered mass
(volume) are determined by settings specified in the Sample section the of
Sample analysis window settings dialog window (Fig. 4-3).

If these parameters have not been specified prior to calculation of the peak
area and height (for more details see Par.4.4.4) and the operator has started
the calculation, enter in the Initial data window (Fig. 4-17) which opens upon
clicking the Integrate or Mark and Integrate button in the Sample analysis
window (Fig. 4-2).

Fig. 4-17 Initial data dialog

To exit the Initial data window (Fig. 4-17) and save the entered data, click the
Apply button.

To exit from the Initial data window (Fig. 4-17) without saving the entered
data, click the Cancel button.
 50 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

4.4.4 Allocation of the peak boundaries and calculation of its area

and height

Allocation of the peak boundaries and calculation of its area and height is
similar to the procedure described in Par.4.3.4.

4.4.5 Sample analysis results

The analysis result is the mercury content in the sample automatically

calculated provided the peak height or peak area has been calculated (for
more details see Par.4.4.4) and the mass (volume) value has been entered
(for more details see Par.4.4.3).

The value of mercury mass (in ng) for the analyzed sample is displayed in the
Mercury mass, ng column (Fig. 4-18).

The concentration for each analyzed sample is displayed in the column

Concentration (Fig. 4-18) only if nonzero the sample mass (volume) has
been entered (see Par.4.4.3).

The units, as well as the number of decimals of the displayed mercury

concentration are determined by settings specified in the Concentration
section of Sample analysis window settings dialog window (Fig. 4-3).

The result of analysis can be saved by selecting the respective row with the
left mouse button and clicking the Save button only if the sample description is
entered.

You can make changes in a selected row of the Sample analysis window
settings dialog window in the Analysis mode and save the amended data in
the following cases:

• If a new sample description is entered in the Sample description

column for the sample;

• If a new mass (volume) value is entered in the Mass (Volume)

column with the concentration recalculation for the sample;

• If a new calibration is chosen from the drop-down list of the

Calibration column. In this case, the mercury content will be
recalculated with respect to the new calibration. To do so, left-click
the appropriate item in the Calibration column and select the
 Section 4 Sample analysis 51

required calibration. Be aware that only calibrations corresponding

to the chosen operating cell are included in the drop-down list.

• If a new reference value is entered in the Cref column. In this case,

the mercury content will be recalculated.

Fig. 4-18 Sample analysis dialog with the calculated mercury concentration

4.4.6 Measurement results view

Measurement results are displayed either in the form of a plot or in the table
form, or simultaneously in the form of a plot and a table (depending on the
operator’s choice).

1. To display data as a graph, select the Only graph item from the View

menu or click the icon on the toolbar. The graph shows the
analytical signal as a function of time, as well as the time dependence
of the parameter D, if its display was set.

2. To display data as a table, select the Only Table command item from

the View menu item or click the icon on the toolbar. The table
columns comprise the sample number, the time and date of the
measurement, the signal value and D parameter value provided its
display has been specified in the window settings.
 52 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

3. To display data as the table positioned below the plot, select the Table

below the graph item from the View menu or click the icon on
the toolbar.

4. To display data as the table on the right of the plot, select the Table

right of the graph item from the View menu or click the icon on
the toolbar.

5. To clear the window of measurement data, select the File/Clear menu

item or click the icon on the toolbar. For an unsaved measurement

a warning message will appear, in which click Yes.

WARNING
Upon clearing the screen, unsaved data will be permanently deleted.

4.5 Operating with graph

For a detailed study of a measurement carried out, it is possible to view more

carefully each segment of the graph both during the measurement and on its
completion.

4.5.1 Determination of cursor coordinates

Place the cursor on the graph. Clicking and holding down the left mouse
button will result in appearance of a horizontal and a vertical line passing
through the position of the cursor. In the bottom left corner of the plot window
the cursor location coordinates will appear where X coordinate is the time, and
Y coordinate is the mercury concentration (Fig. 4-19).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 53

Fig. 4-19 Determination of cursor coordinates

To undo this mode, release the left mouse button.

This feature provides rapid determination of the coordinates of the signal

points when the cursor is placed on them.

4.5.2 Zooming a segment of the graph

To zoom a segment of the graph, proceed as follows using the mouse.

Set the cursor in the plot window. Select a segment for zooming. To do this,
left-click one of the corners of the area of interest and holding the mouse
button down drag the cursor to the opposite corner of the area and release the
button. The required area will be circumscribed by a rectangle frame (Fig.
4-20). The size of this frame can be changed by moving its edges using the
mouse.
 54 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-20 Selecting a graph segment for zooming

The circumscribing rectangle can be moved to any region of the graph. To do

this, place the cursor inside the frame, left-click and hold it down draging the
cursor with the frame to the required place.

To undo selecting the segment, left-click outside the frame.

To view the selected segment, place the cursor inside the frame and double
left-click or right-click and choose the Select the viewing area option.

4.5.3 Autoscaling Y-axis

For the zoomed area to be scaled by the ordinate axis, select the menu

View/Y-axis autoscale item or click the icon on the toolbar.

Alternatively, use the contextual menu, which is accessible upon right-clicking
5the graph, by choosing the Y-axis autoscale menu item.
 Section 4 Sample analysis 55

4.5.4 Full screen

To return to viewing all the data, select the menu View/Full screen item or

click the icon on the toolbar. Alternatively, use the contextual menu,
which is accessible upon right-clicking the graph, by choosing the Full screen
menu item.

4.5.5 Moving the graph

To move the graph along the X-axis either to the right or to the left, select the
View/Right shift or View/Left shift menu items respectively or click the

appropriate icon or on the toolbar. Alternatively, use the contextual

menu, which is accessible upon right-clicking the graph, by choosing the
Right shift or Left shift menu items.

4.5.6 Cancelling previous scaling

To undo the zoom, select View/Zoom cancel or click the icon on the
toolbar. To return to a previous view of the graph, click View/Restore (zoom)

or click the icon on the toolbar. Alternatively, use the contextual menu,
which is accessible upon right-clicking the graph, by choosing the Cancel
(scale) or Undo (scale) menu items.

4.5.7 Legend

To identify the graphs displayed on the screen, use a legend. To do this, place
the cursor on the appropriate graph, right-click it, and select the Show legend
item in the contextual menu. The identifying information on the graphs will
appear on the screen (Fig. 4-21).
 56 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-21 Legend

To remove the legend, place the cursor on the graph, right-click it, and in the
contextual menu remove the tick from the Show legend item.

4.5.8 Exporting graph as an image file

In some cases, it is useful to export a graph into a text document. To this

effect, save the graph as an image with one of the possible extensions: *.jpeg,
*.bmp, *.gif, *.png, *.emf.

Place the cursor on the graph image, right click, and select Export Image in
the appeared contextual menu. A standard Windows Save file dialog box will
open. Save the graph.

4.5.9 Exporting graph as a text file

Set of data for a graph can be exported to a text file (*.txt) for further
processing with another application (e.g. MS Excel, MS Word, etc.).

To do this, place the cursor in the window with the graph image (see Par.4.2)
and select the File/Export item in the main menu. A standard Windows Save
file dialog box will open. Enter a File name and click the Save button to
finalize the data export.

4.6 Saving results

All data displayed as a table or a graph can be saved in the instrument

database. To save the data, proceed as follows:

1. Enter a description in the text box of the Graph description section.

 Section 4 Sample analysis 57

2. Select the menu item File/Save or click the icon on the toolbar.
The data will be saved in the measurement database. In this case, the
save command and all buttons to control the instrument will be
unavailable.

3. Clicking the Save button during measurement will stop it with

subsequent data saving.

To modify the graph description for the saved measurement, do the following:

1. Modify the description in the text box of the Graph description section.

2. Select the menu item File/Save or click the icon on the toolbar
and the measurement will be saved with the new description.

To totally replace the graph description, do the following:

1. Select the menu item File/Save or click the icon on the toolbar.
The Graph description dialog window will be opened (Fig. 4-22).

2. Enter the plot description in the blank box.

3. Click OK to exit the Graph description window with saving the graph
and the put-in description. The data will be saved in the measurement
database, whereupon the save command and all the buttons to control
the instrument will be unavailable.

Fig. 4-22 Graph description dialog

To exit the Graph description window without saving, click the Cancel
button.
 58 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

4.7 Viewing saved results

You can view saved results by retrieving the measurement of interest from the
database of a particular instrument. Viewing is prohibited when any
measurement is running.

To view a measurement from the database, proceed as follows:

1. Select the File/Open menu item or click the icon on the toolbar.

2. In the Select operation mode window (Fig. 4-23) select the desired
measurement using the left mouse button.

To delete a measurement from the database, select it and click Delete in the
Select operation mode window.

To exit the Select operation mode window, click Exit.

For the previously saved data displayed in the Sample analysis window you
can choose the graph type, line colour and style, colour of the area, type of
the baseline interpolation, the option to display or not the D parameter and the
PMT current (Fig. 4-24).

Fig. 4-23 Select operation mode dialog

 Section 4 Sample analysis 59

Fig. 4-24 Sample analysis window settings dialog for the saved measurement

4.8 Viewing saved calibrations

You can view saved calibration plots by retrieving a calibration of interest from
the database. Viewing is prohibited when any measurement is running.

To view a calibration from the database, proceed as follows:

1. In the Sample analysis window, select the Calibration operation mode

(Fig. 4-1).

2. Click the Calibration list button. In the opened Calibration list dialog
window (Fig. 4-25), a table consisting of four columns: Created, Name,
Calibration and Operator appears.

You can apply filters to display calibrations established over a certain period of
time. To this effect, tick the Show toggle in the View period section to
activate the drop-down list, in which you can choose a certain period
60 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

(calibrations established today, yesterday, this week, last week, this month,
last month, this quarter, last quarter, this year or last year). If you tick the
Customize toggle, you can set the initial and the end dates from the drop-
down lists for calibrations to be displayed.

You can also apply a filter to display the calibrations for a particular operating
cell. To do this, use the Cell drop-down list where you can select the operating
cell (multipath, single path, external) or browse the non-filtered data (all).

For a more detailed view of a particular calibration, select it using the left
mouse button and click View… The Calibration results dialog window (Fig.
4-26) will open displaying and initial data by which the calibration was created
as well as the results of calibration plotting as a graph or as a table (for more
details see Par.4.3.5).

Click Exit to exit the Calibration results window.

Fig. 4-25 Calibration list dialog

To delete a calibration from the database, select it in the Calibration list

window (Fig. 4-25) using the left mouse button and click the Delete button.

To select a template for the Report view, click the Report templates button
(for more details see Par.6.6).

To view the report on a calibration, select it using the left mouse button and
click the Report button (for more details see Par.6.1).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 61

To get help in the Calibration list window, click the Help button.

To exit the Calibration list window (Fig. 4-25), click the Exit button.

Fig. 4-26 Calibration results dialog

4.9 Viewing measurement database

The stored results of measurements can be viewed by retrieving

measurements of interest from the List of Measurements database.

To view these data in the Sample analysis window, select the Analysis
operation mode (Fig. 4-2) and click Measurement database button. The main
window of the Measurement database will be opened (Fig. 4-27).

The main window contains the table of measurements with information about
the calculated concentration. The columns contain information about the serial
62 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

number of calculation, sample description, the value of the calculated

concentration, and the date of the calculations. (This information is
automatically added to the list when you save the result of calculation).

It is possible to display additional information in the List of measurements

window: calculated, measured, mass/volume, interval, area, height, baseline,
calibration, D, Cref, d, mercury mass and operator. To choose additional
parameters to be displayed click the More... button in the Measurement list
window.

The measurement database provides the option to apply filters to display

measurements carried out over a certain period of time. To this effect, tick the
Show toggle in the View period section to activate the drop-down list, in
which you can choose the time period (measurements made today, yesterday,
this week, last week, this month, last month, this quarter, last quarter, this
year, or last year). If you tick the Customize toggle, you can set the initial and
the end dates from the drop-down lists for measurements to be displayed.

You can apply filter to display the measurements for a particular operating
cell. To do this, use the Cell drop-down list where you can select the operating
cell (multipath, single path, external) or browse the non-filtered data (all).

In the Measurement database dialog window (Fig. 4-27) the following buttons
are available:

• The Help button to open the help section with the description of the
measurement database;
 Section 4 Sample analysis 63

Fig. 4-27 List of measurements (Measurement database) dialog

• The Delete button to delete a selected item from the database;

• The Template settings button to open the Report templates

settings window (for more details see Par.6.7);

• The Report button to open the report on this window (for more
details see Par.6.3);

• The Export button to export data of the current dialog window to a

text file (see Par.4.5.9);

• The Edit button to edit selected items in Sample analysis window;

• The Exit button to close the measurement database and return to

the Sample analysis window (Fig. 4-2).

• The Statistics button to open the Statistics dialog window (for

more details see Par.4.10).

• The button More… to open the List of measurements. Settings

dialog window (for more details see Par.4.9.1).

4.9.1 List of measurements. Settings window

Upon clicking More… in the Measurement database window, the List of

measurements. Settings window will open (Fig. 4-28). You can choose some
additional parameters (for full description ref. to Par.4.1) to be displayed.

The window contains the following functions:

• The Autosave to a text file checkbox. To save the result

automatically to a text file (in TXT format) while saving it to the
measurement database archive, check the Autosave to a text file
checkbox and specify the folder for file saving using the button.
By default, the checkbox is unchecked, and the result can be saved
to a text file manually according to par. 4.5.9.

• The Select all button to select all the parameters to display results.
All check boxes become ticked;

• The Deselect all button to undo the selection and to remove ticks
from all the parameters selected;
 64 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• The OK button to close this dialog window with saving all changes
and to return to the Measurement database dialog window (Fig.
4-2);

• The Cancel button to close this dialog window without saving

changes and to return to the Measurement database dialog
window (Fig. 4-2).

Fig. 4-28 List of measurements. Settings

4.9.2 List of measurements with detailed information

Having ticked the appropriate check boxes (ref. Par.4.9.1), click OK. The List
of Measurements (Measurement database) window (Fig. 4-29) showing
detailed information will open.

The measurement database with detailed information also provides the option
to filter measurements by time and to display data for a particular operating
cell as described in Par.4.9.
 Section 4 Sample analysis 65

Fig. 4-29 List of measurements dialog with detailed information

4.10 Statistics

The RAPID software provides a mechanism to carry out statistical processing

of results stored in the List of measurements.

Statistical processing means computation of metrological parameters by using

results of parallel measurements for an analyzed sample.

Calculations may be performed by taking into account the blank concentration,

the dilution coefficient for each sample and the dilution coefficient specified for
all samples.
66 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-30 Sample selection in the List of measurements dialog window

Statistical processing of the results is implemented in the Statistics dialog

window. To enter the Statistics window, select samples for processing in the
List of measurements window and click the Statistics button (Fig. 4-30).

The Statistics window (Fig. 4-31) containing the Initial data table
representing the data chosen for statistical processing will open. The table
consists of the following columns:

• Tick column (the leftmost column) intended to set (remove) the

control tick for a relevant line (entry). The control tick signifies that
the data of the ticked sample are to be taken during statistical
processing;

• N is the number of the sample in the list;

• Sample description is the description of a particular sample;

 Section 4 Sample analysis 67

Fig. 4-31 Statistics dialog

• Concentration is the concentration value for a particular sample;

• Units to represent measurement units for mercury content;

• Q1 is the dilution coefficient value for each sample. If the Apply Q1

option in the project settings/parameters (see Par.4.10.1) is
selected, you can specify the Q1 value for each sample in this
column. By default, the value of the Q1 coefficient is taken as one.

• Blank sample is intended to designate samples that will be treated

as blanks. To select them, tick the checkbox in the relevant rows.

• Relative deviation, % - the relative deviation of the i-th result from

the mean value. For more details, see below.

Statistical processing is based on a selected project. Project is a range of

settings in algorithm to compute required parameters. Before processing, you
should either select a project among previously created projects in the Select
project drop-down list in the top left corner, or create a new project.

By default, statistical processing of the results is implemented according to the

By default project, in which Xmean, SD, RSD and Relative spread are
calculated. The individual dilution coefficient (Q1) can also be defined for each
68 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

sample and blank concentration, whereas the batch dilution coefficient (Q2) as
well as acceptance criteria for the results (Urel, % and r, %) are not active. The
By default project cannot be deleted and its settings are not editable.

A new project can be created or settings of any existing project can be

changed in the Project settings/ parameters window (see Par.4.10.1). To
enter this window, click the Project settings/parameters button.

Having selected the project, correct the data in the Initial data table:

1. Tick the samples involved in calculation. By default, all samples

selected in the List of measurements window are selected as long as
their measurement units are the same as that of the first sample
selected in the list.

2. If the Apply Q1 item is selected in the project settings, specify the Q1

value for each sample. By default, Q1 = 1.

3. If the Apply blank samples item is selected in the project settings,

check the Blank sample boxes in appropriate samples lines to apply
these samples as blanks.

After settings are applied, start processing by clicking the Calculate button
located under the table (Fig. 4-32).

Fig. 4-32 Statistics dialog. Calculated parameters

 Section 4 Sample analysis 69

Calculated parameters will appear in the Calculation results section:

• X mean ( Х ) is the averaged value of concentration calculated by

the formula:

 ((X − X 0 )  Qi(1) )
N

i
(4.11)
X = i =1
 Q ( 2) ,
N

where Х i is the mercury concentration for the i-th sample taken into
the calculation;

N is the number of samples involved in the calculation of X mean

(equal to number of samples selected in the List of measurements
window minus the number of samples assigned as blanks);

Qi(1) is the dilution coefficient specified in the Initial data table for the
i-th sample;

Q ( 2 ) is the dilution coefficient specified in the project for all samples

(see Par.4.10.1);

Х 0 is the averaged value of the blank concentration, which is

calculated by the formula (4.20) as below.

• Uncertainty (U) is calculated by the formula:

U = 0,01 U rel  Х , (4.12)

where Х is the mercury concentration mean value calculated by the

formula (4.11) as above;

U rel is the relative measurement uncertainty specified in the project

(see Par.4.10.1).

• SD is the SD value calculated by the formula:

 (X − ( X )
N
2
i − X 0 )  Qi(1)  Q ( 2)
(4.13)
SD = i =1
,
N −1

• RSD, % is the relative SD calculated by the formula:

SD
RSD =  100, % , (4.14)
X
70 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• Relative spread ( X (rel.)), % is the relative spread, calculated by

the formula:

X
X (rel.) =  100, % , (4.15)
X

where X is the spread calculated by the formula (4.16) as below.

In the Repeatability test section, the following parameters are displayed:

• Spread (ΔX) is value calculated by the formula:

X = ( Х max  Qmax
(1)
− X min  Qmin
(1)
)  Q( 2 ) , (4.16)

where Xmax and Xmin are the maximum and minimum mercury
concentration values of the N samples selected to calculate X (blank
samples are not included in the N number).

Q (1) max and Q(1) min are dilution coefficients corresponding to

measurements with the maximum and minimum mercury
concentration

• The Acceptable spread (AS) calculated by the formula:

AS = 0,01 r  f  Х , (4.17)

where r is the repeatability limit specified in the project (see

Par.4.10.1);

f is the statistic correction factor for N > 2 results taken into

consideration.

• Verdict is the verdict of the acceptability test on the results

obtained. If

ΔX ≤ AS, (4.18)

the verdict is “pass” - the results are considered to be acceptable.

If

ΔX > AS, (4.19)

the verdict is “failed” - the results are considered to be non-

acceptable (unsatisfactory).

The Rated values section displays such parameters:

 Section 4 Sample analysis 71

• The relative measurement uncertainty (U rel.), % is a rated value

specified in the project by the operator with respect to the
concentration range in which the obtained mean value is included
according to the technique used.

• Repeatability limit (r), % is the maximum acceptable spread for

two results. It is specified in the project by the operator with respect
to the concentration range in which the obtained mean value is
included according to the technique used.

Next to the Calculate button, the following parameters are displayed:

• Blank, mean value ( Х 0 ) is the averaged value of the blank

concentration calculated by the formula:
M

X
j =1
0j
(4.20)
Х0 = ,
M

where Х0j is the mercury concentration for the j-th blank

measurement;

M is a number of blank samples.

• Q2 is the dilution coefficient determined by the operator for all

samples.

The Relative deviation (δ), % values appear in the appropriate column of the
Initial data table. They represent the relative deviation of the i-th result from
the mean value:

( X i − X 0 )  Qi(1)  Q ( 2 ) − X
 =  100 , (4.21)
X

For blank samples and for a single result no relative deviation is calculated
and a dash appears in the respective box instead of the value.

If it is mathematically impossible to obtain a reasonable value for a particular

parameter (e.g. the standard deviation for a single result), a dash appears in
the respective box instead of the value.

To save the calculation results enter a comment in the Comment textbox and
click the Save button. The saved results will be added in the Statistics list
(see Par.4.10.2).

To view the new record, enter the Statistics list window by pressing the
Statistics list button located in the top right corner of the Statistics window.
 72 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

There are more buttons at the bottom of the window:

• The Help button opens the help section for the Statistics window.

• The Exit button closes the Statistics window without saving the
results.

4.10.1 Project settings/parameters

Project is a collection of parameter settings for the algorithm of data

processing in order to:

• Calculate the mercury mean concentration by formula (4.11);

• Calculate the measurement uncertainty by formula (4.12);

• Make decisions as to the acceptability of results using formula

(4.18), (4.19).

To set parameters for a new project with use of the Project

settings/parameters window (Fig. 4-33), proceed as follows:

Fig. 4-33 Project settings dialog

 Section 4 Sample analysis 73

1. In the New project drop-down list at the top of the window, select a
project from the list of the existing projects. You can:

• Use settings of an existing project without any changes. Select

the project and pass to step 9 to save the project under a new
name.

• Edit project settings and save the project under a new name.
Select the project, enter the new name (step 2) and start editing.

• Create a new project with new settings selecting the <New

project> item in the New project list.

2. Put in a new project name in the Project name box.

It is recommended to use a reference to the applied method (e.g. its

identification number) as the project name.

3. Check/uncheck the Apply Q1 checkbox. If this box is checked, you will

be able to specify the dilution coefficient Q1 for a particular sample in
the Initial data table of the Statistics dialog window (Fig. 4-31).
Otherwise, for all samples, processed by this project the Q1 coefficient
will be set as one without possibility of setting another value.

4. Check/uncheck the Apply Q2 checkbox. If this box is checked, you will

be able to specify the dilution coefficient Q2 for all samples treated by
the project. Otherwise, the Q2 coefficient will be set as one. No other
value can be specified. If this is the case, skip step 5.

5. If the Apply Q2 option is selected (step 4), specify the relevant value in
the Q2 box.

6. Check/uncheck the Apply blank samples checkbox. If this box is

checked, you will be able to specify samples treated as blanks.
Otherwise, no sample can be specified as a blank in the Statistics
dialog window and the X0 will be put as equal to zero.

7. Select the sample type in the Sample type drop-down list. Sample
type is an alias for the measurement unit for mercury content. There
are two possibilities: Mass that stands for g/l and Volume for g/kg. If
the sample type (i.e. the measurement unit for mercury content)
indicated in the project does not correspond to that of samples
selected, the “Project settings do not match the samples selected”
message will appear on your screen when you click the Calculate
button in the Statistics window. In this case click OK and select an
appropriate sample type in Project settings/parameters window.
74 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

8. Fill in the Ranges table.

The Ranges table contains data based on measurement ranges that cover
the overall measurement range. The table columns contain values for the
lower and upper limits of each range, the relative measurement uncertainty U
rel., % and the repeatability limit (r), %.

The ranges as well as U rel. and r values for them should be pre-
defined by the user according to procedures established in their
laboratory. This document does not purport to provide any
concise information on this subject. Be guided by relevant
standards and other documents.

You may add up to five measurement ranges. The range limits

must be set in such a way as to cover the overall measurement
range without gaps and/or interceptions. Should it be not the
case, a warning message will appear.

Use the Add, Edit and Delete buttons located under the Ranges table to fill in
this table:

• To add a new range, click Add and the Range window will open
(Fig. 4-34). The Range window contains fields to enter values for
each column of the Ranges table. Having entered the values, click
the OK button to save the new data. To cancel the input, click the
Cancel button.

• To edit an existing range, select it in the Ranges table and click the
Edit button. The Range window (Fig. 4-34) with data for the
selected range will open as above.

Fig. 4-34 Range dialog

 Section 4 Sample analysis 75

• To delete a range, select it and click the Delete button.

9. After the list of values in the Ranges table is completed (Fig. 4-35),
save the project by clicking the Save project button.

Fig. 4-35 Project settings dialog with completed Ranges table

− The Help button opens the help section containing the description of
the Project settings window.

− The Delete project button deletes the project selected at step 1.

− The Save project button saves the project with the settings specified.

− The Exit button closes the Project settings/parameters window

without saving the project
 76 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

4.10.2 Statistics list

The Statistics list window (Fig. 4-36) is called up by pressing the Statistics
list button located in the top right corner of the Statistics window.

Fig. 4-36 Statistics list dialog

The Statistics list table is a table where information on data treatment is

being collected. It consists of four columns headed as №, Sample
description, X mean and Units which represent the sequential record
number, description of the sample, the averaged value of mercury content and
the measurement units for mercury content respectively.

It is also possible to display the additional information in the Statistics list

window like Initial concentrations, Uncertainty (U), Time stamp, SD,
RSD, %, Relative spread, %, Number of measurements (N), Cref and
Operator(Fig. 4-37). To choose the additional parameter to be displayed in
the Statistics list window click the button More… to open the window More…
 Section 4 Sample analysis 77

Fig. 4-37 Statistics List dialog with detailed information

This information is automatically added to the Statistics list when you save
the result of calculation in the Statistics window.

Records in the list are not editable; you can only edit information in the
Sample description column for the record selected.

The Statistics list provides an option to select the time interval to display
records. To do this, tick the Show a fixed period toggle in the View period
section and use the drop-down list, in which you can choose a standard period
(measurements made today, yesterday, this week, last week, this month, last
month, this quarter, last quarter, this year, or last year). If you tick the
Customize data toggle, you can set the initial and the end dates from the
drop-down lists for calculations to be displayed.

Furthermore, you can apply a filter to display the calculations for a particular
project. To do this, use the By project drop-down list where you can select
the required project.

If measurement ranges for a chosen project were specified (see par. 4.10.1), it
is possible to display records related to a certain range. Select the required
range in the By range drop-down list which becomes active only after any
project has been selected in the By project drop-down list.

It is also possible to select data obtained by averaging of the same number of

runs in the By number of measurements in repeateability conditions (N)
78 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

drop-down list, which becomes active only after any range has been selected
in the By range drop-down list.

Furthermore, you can display records, for which nonzero reference values
(Cref) were entered in the Sample analysis window. To do so, check the box
Cref in the Statistics list window.

To view a record of interest, select it in the table and click the Open button
located under the table. The Statistics window will open, which is similar to
the window containing results of statistical processing results (Fig. 4-32). The
Select project list, as well as the buttons Project settings/parameters and
Calculate are not active in this window. When necessary, you may edit a
comment to the calculation. To do this, enter a new comment to the
calculations in the Comments box and then click Save to save the changes.

There are several buttons located at the lower part of the window:

− The Help button to open the help section for the Statistics list
window;

− The Control chart 1 button to open the R-chart for repeatability

conditions window (see par. 4.10.3);

− The Control chart 2 button to open the Accuracy check using RM

or SRM window (see par. 4.10.4);

− The Open button to open the Statistics window containing the

results of computations for the record selected from the Statistics
list;

− The Delete button to delete the record selected from the Statistics
list window;

− The Exit button to shut down the Statistics list window;

− The Report button to open the ReportViewer window with the

preview of the report generated on the template previously
selected by default (see Par.6.4);

− The Report templates button to open the Report template

settings window (see Par.6.7);

− The Export button to export data of the current dialog window to a

text file (see Par. 4.5.8 and 4.5.9).
 Section 4 Sample analysis 79

4.10.3 R-chart for repeatability conditions

The R-chart for repeatability conditions window (Fig. 4-38) is called up by

pressing the Control chart 1 button located in the top right corner of the
Statistics list window in the Control charts section (Fig. 4-36). In the R-
chart for repeatability conditions window a Shewhart chart (Repeatability
control chart) generates automatically using samples, selected in the
Statistics list window. To create the control chart do the following:

1. In the By project drop-down list select samples, calculated according to

the project, specified in the Statistics list window (except the “By
default” project).

2. In the By range drop-down list select samples in the specified range of

the project.

3. In the By number of measurements in repeatability conditions (N)

drop-down list select samples with the same number of parallel runs.
The control chart creating is possible only for samples, calculated using
only two or three parallel measurements.

4. Press the Control chart 1 button.

Control chart will be generated only if there are at least two
samples in the Statistics list. Otherwise the message “Not enough
samples selected” will appear.

Fig. 4-38 R-chart for repeatability conditions window

80 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Shewhart control chart is a plot representing relative spread, % (Relative

spread, %) vs. sequential point number assigned to the samples in the
chronological order starting with number one. Straight line segments are
drawn through neighbouring points on the graph. There are three control limits
on the control chart: Central line, %; Warning limit, % and Action limit, %,
which are calculated by formula (4.22) using coefficients from Table 4-1:

r
Y = A , (4.22)
B

Where r is the repeatability limit (r), %. for the chosen range (see par. 4.10.1);

Coefficients A and B (Table 4-1) are dependant on the number of

measurements (N).

The default view of the chart is the Plot view (Fig. 4-38); to view data as a
table, tick the Table view switch (Fig. 4-39).
Table 4-1 Coefficients for control limits

Number of Central line Warning Action limit

measurements limit
(N)
Coefficient A
2 1,128 2,834 3,686
3 1,693 3,469 4,358
Coefficient B
2 2,8 2,8 2,8
3 3,3 3,3 3,3

In the table view of the R-chart for repeatability conditions window following
columns are displayed:

▪ № - sequential point number.

▪ Time stamp – Time stamp from the Statistics list window.

▪ Sample description – Sample description from the Statistics list

window.

▪ X mean – Xmean from the Statistics list window.

▪ Units – Units from the Statistics list window.

▪ Relative spread,% - Relative spread, % from the Statistics list window.

 Section 4 Sample analysis 81

▪ Note – a warning message either “Above the warning limit” or “Above

the action limit” emerges for the data with the relative spread exceeding
the warning or action limit respectively. Such rows are highlighted with
the same colour as the colour of the overridden limit.

Fig. 4-39 R-chart for repeatability conditions window (in the table view)

There is a summary section below the graph or the table where the following
data are displayed:

o Number of measurements (N).

o Central line, %.

o Warning limit, %.

o Action limit, %.

o Total number of points – the number of samples selected in the

Statistics list window for chart creating.

o Points above the warning limit – the point is counted if its relative
spread exceeds that for the warning limit calculated by formula (4.22).

o Points above the action limit – the point is counted, if its relative
spread exceeds that for the action limit calculated by formula (4.22).
 82 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

There is no option to edit any data in the R-chart for repeatability

conditions window. It is only possible to save the generated control chart and
to print it out as a report (see Par. 6.5).

There are several buttons located at the bottom of the window:

− The Report button to open the ReportViewer window with the preview of
the report generated on the template previously selected by default (see Par.
6.5).

− The Report templates button to open the Report template settings

window (see Par. 6.13).

− The Help button to open the help section for the R-chart for repeatability
conditions window.

− The Exit button to shut down the R-chart for repeatability conditions
window.

4.10.4 Accuracy check using RM or SRM window

The Accuracy check using RM or SRM window (Fig. 4-40) is called up by

pressing the Control chart 2 button located in the top right corner of the
Statistics list window in the Control charts section (Fig. 4-36). In the
Accuracy check using RM or SRM window a Shewhart chart is
automatically generated considering samples selected in the Statistics list
window. To create the control chart do the following:

1. In the Statistics list window (Fig. 4-36) check the box Cref.

2. In the By project drop-down list select samples related to the project

specified in the Statistics list window (except for the “By default”
project).

3. In the By range drop-down list select samples in the specified

concentration range.

4. In the By number of measurements in repeatability conditions (N)

drop-down list select samples with the same number of runs (this
option is accessible N = 2 and 3 only).

5. Press the Control chart 2 button.

 Section 4 Sample analysis 83

Control chart will be generated only if there are at least two

samples in the Statistics list. Otherwise the message “Not enough
samples selected” will appear.

Shewhart control chart is a plot representing relative bias, % (Relative

bias, %) vs. sequential point number assigned to the samples in the
chronological order starting with number one. Relative bias is calculated
according to the formula (4.23):

Х mean − Сref
RelativeBi as = 100 * (4.23)
Сref
Where Xmean is the X mean value taken from the Statistics list window;
Cref is the reference value Cref entered for the sample in the Sample analysis
window.

There are three control limits on the control chart: Central line, %; Warning
limit, % and Action limit, %:

Central line,% coincides with the X axe.

Warning limits, % are calculated using formula (4.24) :

For upper control limit Y = +U rel
(4.24)
For lower control limit Y = −U rel

where Urel is the relative measurement uncertainty, %, from the project (see
Par.4.10.1).

Action limits, % are calculated using formula (4.25):

For upper control limit Y = +1,5 U rel
(4.25)
For lower control limit Y = −1,5 U rel

where Urel is the relative measurement uncertainty, % from the project (see
Par.4.10.1).

The default view of the control chart is the Plot view (Fig. 4-40). You can
switch over to the table view by ticking the Table view switch (Fig. 4-41).
84 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 4-40 Accuracy check using RM or SRM window

Fig. 4-41 Accuracy check using RM or SRM window (in the table view)

In the table of the Accuracy check using RM or SRM window the following
columns are displayed:
 Section 4 Sample analysis 85

▪ Point number - sequential point number.

▪ Time stamp – Time stamp from the Statistics list window.

▪ Sample description – Sample description from the Statistics list

window.

▪ Cref – Cref from the Sample analysis window.

▪ X mean – Xmean taken from the Statistics list window.

▪ Units – Units from the Statistics list window.

▪ Relative bias,% - Relative bias, % calculated using formula (4.23).

▪ Note – a warning message either “Above the warning limit” or “Above the
action limit” emerges for the data with the relative bias exceeding the
warning or action limit respectively. Such rows are highlighted with the
same colour as the colour of the overridden limit.

There is a summary section below the graph or table where the following data
are displayed:

o Number of measurements (N).

o Central line, %.

o Warning limit, %.

o Action limit, %.

o Total number of points – the number of samples selected in the

Statistics list window to generate the control chart.

o Mean relative deviation, % - mean relative bias,%.

o Points above the warning limit – the point is counted, if its relative bias
calculated by formula (4.23) complies with the inequality (4.26):
-Y> Relative bias, %> +Y (4.26)

Where Y is the Warning limit, % value calculated by formula (4.24).

o Points above the action limit – the point is counted, if its relative bias
calculated by formula (4.23) complies with the inequality (4.26), where
Y is the Action limit, calculated by formula (4.25).

There is no option to edit any data in the Accuracy check using RM or SRM
window. It is only possible to save the generated control chart and to print it
out as a report (see Par. 6.5).
 86 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

There are several buttons located at the bottom of the window:

− The Report button to open the ReportViewer window with the preview of
the report generated on the template previously selected by default (see Par.
6.5).

− The Report templates button to open the Report template settings

window (see Par. 6.13).

− The Help button to open the help section for the Accuracy check using
RM or SRM window.

− The Exit button to shut down the Accuracy check using RM or SRM
window.

4.11 Operation with autosampler

Autosampler is a device designed for automated handling of samples into the

atomizer of the analyzer.

The Sample analysis and the Sample data windows provide the following
functions:

• Input and editing of parameters for analyzed samples;

• Random access for samples to be analyzed;

• Running measurement for a set of samples using chosen scenario of

analysis;

• On-line data treatment;

• Information on the current sample analysis.

Detailed description of operation and adjustments of the atomizer is given in

par. 4.1 and 4.2.
 Section 4 Sample analysis 87

4.11.1 Sample data

The Sample data window is called up from the Sample Analysis window by
clicking the Settings button in the Autosampler section (Fig. 4-44).

The Autosampler section in the Sample analysis window is

displayed only when the atomizer and the autosampler are
connected to the software.
The Sample data window with the autosampler connected to the software is
shown in Fig. 4-42:

Fig. 4-42 The Sample data window

The table is designed for input of initial parameters and information on

samples to be analyzed.

The table consists of the following columns:

• Boat number – is a number of the sample boat. Every sample boat is

numbered according to its placement on the sample cassettes;

• Select column is designed to select the sample boat for analysis;

• Sample description column is designed for manual input of the sample

identification information;

• Mass, mg/Volume, ml column is designed for manual input of the

sample mass/volume. The choice of parameter (Mass or Volume) and
88 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

its units is performed in the RA-915Lab atomizer mode settings

window (see par. 4.2);

• Cref column is designed for input of the reference values of the sample
concentration.

Prior to measurements, fill the mandatory Sample description and

Mass/Volume fileds for the samples in the corresponding sample
boats. Cref value is optional. Select the checkbox in the Select column
for the samples to be analyzed (Fig. 4-43).

Fig. 4-43 Example of the Sample data window with filled information for samples

By pressing the Select all button all samples with filled Sample
description, Mass/Volume fileds are selected.

By pressing the Deselect all button selections are removed for all the
samples.

The Clear button is designed for deleting all information for all samples.

The Help button opens the Help file of the RAPID software.

The Exit button brings back to the Sample analysis window with
saving all sample data.
 Section 4 Sample analysis 89

4.11.2 Sample analysis in automatic mode

The Sample analysis window with the connected autosampler is shown in

Fig. 4-44.

Control of the autosampler is performed in the Autosampler section of the

Sample analysis window. This section contains the following elements:

• The Settings button is intended for opening the Sample data

window;

• The Start/Stop button is designed for starting and stopping the

autosampler operation.

Fig. 4-44 The Sample analysis window with Autosampler connected

To carry out measurements of mercury content using the RA-915Lab analyzer

in automatic mode, proceed as follows:

1. Follow the appropriate instructions when preparing samples, selecting

operation modes, and performing sample analysis;

2. Open the Sample analysis window;

3. Select the atomizer operation mode in the drop-down list in the RA-
915Lab atomizer control section of the Sample analysis window;
90 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

4. Click the Start button in the RA-915Lab atomizer control section. The
atomizer heaters and the air pump will start operating according to the
settings of the initial stage of the mode. The Stop button, which
activates the dropdown list for selecting operation mode, appears
instead of the Start button;

Caution:

It takes 40 min to get the analyzer ready for operation after

it started heating the atomizer. Continue operation only
after the specified time has elapsed.

5. Click the Start button in the Sample analysis window to start

measurements of the output signals;

Prior to sample analysis carry out the calibration of the

analyzer for the given sample type and specified working
conditions (i.e. mode) in which sample analysis will be
performed. Calibration should be carried out using
(certified) reference materials with the established
(certified) mercury content.

6. Place the known amount (mass or volume) of samples into the sample
boats, then place the sample boats on the required positions on the
cassettes;

7. Click the Settings button in the Autosampler section of the Sample

Analysis window to open the Sample data window. Enter the samples
description, mass (volume) values and reference values (if required) for
the corresponding sample boats, select the samples to be analyzed
and close the Sample data window;

8. Click the Start button in the Autosampler section, the window

contaning warning message will appear. Click the Yes button to start
measurements. The autosampler will sequentially place the sample
holder (from the selected list of samples) from the position on the
cassette into the atomizer and return it back into its original position;

9. The resulting data will be automatically processed and saved into the
List of measurements after each sample analysis.
 Section 4 Sample analysis 91

When operating the autosampler, the status-bar in the Sample analysis window
indicates information on the active commands.

4.12 List of error messages

Possible causes of errors are represented in Table 4.1. If the same error
persistently repeats, please contact the Lumex Instruments technical support
service or that of the authorized distributor.
Table 4.1 List of messages about possible errors

Message Cause
The results might be incorrect. Contamination of the cell or the sample
The light intensity is too small analyzed
Attention! D > 2 Parameter D is more than 2
 Section 5 Settings 93

5 Settings

The RAPID software provides viewing and modification of the configuration

settings for the connected instrument, diagnostics of the instrument by data
read out from the instrument in real time, adjusting custom dialogs for the
tasks of the operator and copying archive or its part for a chosen instrument.

To enter the Settings window, click on the Settings button in the Main menu
window (Fig. 2-4).

5.1 Settings window

The Settings window (Fig. 5-1) provides a choice of operating modes for the
RAPID software. Each mode is activated by a certain button:

• The Instrument settings button enables entering the Instrument

settings window in which settings are read out from the instrument
with an option to change them (for more details see Par.5.2);

You can operate this window only when the instrument is switched on
and connected to the software

• The Operating with archives button enables to get access to the

Operating with archives window in which it is possible to merge
data obtained by the same device but saved on the different
computers as well as to copy data from an archive to a separate
archive in the external folder (see Par. 5.5.4 and 5.5.5).

• The Diagnostics button enables activating the Instrument

diagnostics operation mode (for more details see Par.5.3).

• The Factory calibration button enables performing an automatic

procedure for setting of some operating parameters (see Par.5.4).

• The Security settings button opens the dialog window that

provides the RAPID software operation in compliance with FDA 21
CFR Part 11 (see par. 1.3). Introduce the required settings in this
window in compliance with the security policy of the company.
 94 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• The Help button opens help for this window.

• The Exit button provides exit to the Main menu.

Fig. 5-1 Settings dialog

5.2 Instrument settings window

The Instrument settings window (Fig. 5-2) displays a set of parameters that
can be read out from the instrument and altered afterwards. The parameters
depend on the type of instrument connected to the PC.

WARNING
The instrument settings can be modified solely by a representative of
LUMEX INSTRUMENTS. Unauthorized changing of the parameters
by the user on their own may lead to failure of the instrument.

The parameters are grouped in the window according to their areas of

application.

The RA-915Lab Instrument settings dialog window is shown in Fig. 5-2.

 Section 5 Settings 95

Fig. 5-2 The RA-915Lab instrument settings dialog

Parameters for signal processing are represented in the Settings for signal
processing section:

• Coefficient A is the calibration coefficient ensuring the

proportionality of the signal to the mercury concentration with
respect to the optical characteristics of the instrument. It is set
during the factory calibration of the instrument;

• Coefficient B is the calibration coefficient that allows for the

linearization of the signal from the instrument at high mercury
concentration. It is set during the factory calibration of the
instrument;

• PMT sensitivity is the parameter used to calculate the D parameter

(see Par. 4.1) set individually for each instrument by the service
engineers.

The Lamp section contains the following parameters:

• Operation mode (mode on default) is the parameter intended to set

the lamp glow mode (1, 2 or 3) in which the lamp operates after its
ignition. The choice of the lamp glow mode is set by the service
engineers.
96 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• Lamp operating time, hours is the operating time of lamp read-out

from the instrument.

The button Reset lamp operating time is intended for resetting (i.e. zeroing)
the operating time of the lamp.

The parameters for assessment of the correctness of the analyzer operation

and/or the correctness of measurements are grouped in the Serviceability
criteria section:

• Minimal allowed light intensity is a criterion for insufficiency of

light intensity in the instrument, which is necessary for adequate
measurements. In this case, the current PMT voltage is compared
with the parameter specified. If the PMT voltage is higher than the
specified parameter, a warning message appears during the
measurement. This check is conducted in the Continuous
measurements, Sample analysis and Air analysis. Monitoring
modes.

• Ignition threshold is a criterion for automatic lamp ignition.

The Instrument settings dialog window (Fig. 5-2) also contains the following
buttons:

• The Add to archive button to save the current instrument settings

to the archive;

• The Open archive button to load settings stored in the instrument

archive;

• The Read instrument settings button to read out settings from the
instrument;

• The Upload instrument settings button to upload the instrument

with the new parameters set by the operator;

• The Exit button to exit the Instrument settings window without

uploading newly set parameters;

• The Help button to open the help section for this window.

The FilterOn check box is intended to switch on the pulse disturbance filter.
This filter can be switched off (i.e. the check box unchecked) for the purpose
of the diagnostics carried out by the manufacturer’s service engineers only.
 Section 5 Settings 97

5.3 Instrument diagnostics mode

The Instrument diagnostics mode is intended for real-time graphic and

tabular visualization of all instrument parameters.

This mode should be used by experienced operators after consultation with

the representative of the manufacturer.

The software also provides viewing the amplifier signal (i.e. the signal before
processing) in real time.

According to the operator’s preferences, additional information can be

displayed namely, photomultiplier tube (PMT) voltage, PMT current and
uncorrected value of mercury concentration.

All data thus obtained can be stored in the database for the current instrument
with a possibility of their viewing both as a graph and as a table.

The Instrument diagnostics dialog window is accessible with the instrument

both turned on and turned off.

5.3.1 Instrument diagnostics window (basic functions)

There are the following buttons in the Instrument diagnostics dialog window
(Fig. 5-3):
98 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 5-3 The RA-915Lab instrument diagnostics dialog

• The Start/Pause/Continue button to start, stop and continue

measurement of the amplifier signal and other parameters set to be
displayed;

• The Install/Remove button is inactive;

• The Turn on/Turn off button is inactive;

• The Install/Remove button is inactive;

• The Turn on/Turn off button of the Lamp section to turn on or off
the lamp;

The bottom line of the Instrument diagnostics dialog window is a status bar
displaying the information on the status of the instrument.

If the instrument is not connected to the program, the status bar is empty.

If the instrument is connected to the program, the serial number and status of
the instrument are displayed:

• If the measurement is running, the inscription “Measurement

underway” appears along with the serial number;
 Section 5 Settings 99

• If the measurement is stopped by the Pause button, the inscription

“Measurement stopped” is displayed.

The Operating cell sectiondisplays the External cell (the built-in cell).

The Graph description text box is used by the operator to enter information
on the measurements. To move the cursor to the next line of this text box, use
the Ctrl + Enter key combination. The graph description is saved along with all
data in the database of the current instrument.

For fast execution of certain commands there are special icons grouped on
the toolbar: Icons to operate data, Data view icons, and Icons to operate
graphic data that are functioning similar to those for the Sample analysis
window, see Par.4.1.

5.3.2 Diagnostics window settings

To provide settings for diagnostics, in the Instrument diagnostics window

select the View/Window settings menu item or click the icon on the
toolbar (Fig. 5-3).

The Diagnostic window settings dialog window will be opened (Fig. 5-4).
100 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 5-4 The RA-915Lab instrument diagnostics window settings dialog

When operating with the RA-915Lab instrument specify the following

parameters:

• Frame time is the time interval during which the analytical signal is
averaged, and periodicity with which data in the graph and (or) in
the table are updated (the range is 1 to 600 s);

• Interval duration is the interwal to display the graph. To display all

data, tick the All data toggle. To display data within the specified
interval, tick the In the specified interval toggle and enter the
required interval width in the Interval duration, min box.

• Plot view is a way to draw a graph in the Continuous

measurements dialog window. From the drop-down list select one
of three options: Scatter graph, Line, Line and scatter.

• Uncorrected concentration graph is to define the colour and line

style for the uncorrected concentration graph. Using the button,
specify the graph colour and select the required line style in the
drop-down list.
 Section 5 Settings 101

• Amplifier signal graph is to set whether to show or hide the

amplifier signal graph and to define the colour and line style for it.
To display the amplifier signal graph, tick the appropriate check box
and using the button, specify the graph colour and select the
required line style in the drop-down list.

• PMT voltage (U) graph is to set whether to show or hide the PMT
voltage graph and to define the colour and line style for it. To display
the PMT voltage graph, tick the appropriate check box and using the
button, specify the graph colour and select the required line
style in the drop-down list.

• PMT current (I) graph is to set whether to show or hide the PMT
current graph and to define the colour and line style for it. To display
the PMT current graph, tick the appropriate check box and using the
button, specify the graph colour and select the required line
style in the drop-down list.

To save the settings, click the Apply button. To cancel the entered settings,
click the Cancel button.

5.3.3 Instrument diagnostics

Prior to starting measurements, provide necessary window settings (for more

details see item 5.3).

This is the measurement procedure:

• Click the Start button to start measurement (Fig. 5-5).

• To stop measurement, click the Pause button in the Instrument

diagnostics dialog window (Fig. 5-5).

• To continue the suspended measurement, click the Continue

button in the Instrument diagnostics dialog window (Fig. 5-5).
 102 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 5-5 Instrument diagnostics during measurement dialog

• During the measurement, it is possible to install/remove the sorption

filter, turn on/off the pump, turn on/off the lamp, install/remove the
test cell. The optical bridge can be switched over only with
measurements stopped.

• To exit the Instrument diagnostics window (Fig. 5-5) click the Exit
icon.

5.3.4 Displaying diagnostics results

Diagnostics results can be displayed as a graph, or as a table, or both

depending on the operator’s choice. Operation with the data obtained is
similar to that described for the Sample analysis window in Par.4.4.6.
 Section 5 Settings 103

5.3.5 Saving results

All data either displayed in the form of a table or as a graph can be saved in
the instrument database.
The procedure of saving is similar to that for the Sample analysis window laid
out in Par.4.6.

5.3.6 Viewing saved results

Operation with saved data is similar to operation with data outlined for sample
analysis results (see Par.4.7).

For the previously saved diagnostics data opened in the Diagnostics results
window, you can choose a graph type, colour and line styles, the option to
show or hide the PMT voltage, temperature of the test cell, gas temperature
and pressure, and battery voltage using the settings in this window (Fig. 5-4).

5.4 Factory calibration mode

The Factory calibration mode is intended for the calibration of the analyzer
and is available for the authorized use only as a tool for service maintenance
conducted by the person(s) authorized by the manufacturer.

5.5 Operating with archives

The Operating with archives mode is intended to copy data from the Rapid
working folder to the external folder as well as to copy data from the archive in
the external folder to the archive in the Rapid working folder. For example:

- To create archive with less amount of data for sending it by email from
the archive containing large amount of data;
 104 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

- To merge in one archive data of several archives obtained from the

instrument connected to different computers.

Archive in the Rapid working folder is a folder with data generated

automatically when operating with the instrument connected to the computer.
The name of the archive comprises instrument type and its serial number, e.g.
the archive «RA915M_SN1621[2]» is generated when operating with the RA-
915Lab instrument with the serial number of 1621. The number in square
brackets ([2]) is information used by service engineers. Never change the
name of the archive!

All archives are saved in the repos folder of the Rapid working folder, which is
located in the folder specified at the software installation (see par. 7.2). By
default the path to the archive is as follows: C:\ Lumex\ Rapid\ repos\
RA915M_SN1621 [2]. It is possible to view and process all previously saved
data when operating with previously stored data (see Par. 3.2) if the archive is
located in the Rapid working folder.

The external folder is a folder on the computer beyond the repos folder. If the
archive is located in the external folder, viewing and processing data is
prohibited.

It is possible to enter the Operating with archives window either when the
instrument is connected to the software or not. In the latter case only
previously stored data are available.

5.5.1 Operating with archives window

There are two sections in the Operating with archives window (see Fig. 5-6).
The Creating a copy of archive or its part section (see Par. 5.5.4) is
intended to copy archive or its part from the working folder RAPID to the
external folder. Merging with archive or its part section (see Par. 5.5.5) is
intended to copy data from the archive in the external folder to the archive in
the working folder RAPID.

Only archives for the same instrument can be merged.

 Section 5 Settings 105

Fig. 5-6 Operating with archives dialog

To select a section and a copy mode, set the specified switch (see Par. 5.5.4
and Par. 5.5.5).

There are some service buttons at the bottom of the window:

• The Help button opens the help section for the Operating with
archives window.

• The Next button provides entering the Selecting data for copying
window (given that the initial and final folders for copying are
selected) (see Par.5.5.2).

• The Cancel button provides cancelling copy procedure and closes

the Operating with archives window.

5.5.2 Selecting data for copying window

To enter the Selecting data for copying window (Fig. 5-7) from the
Operating with archives window (Fig. 5-6), select the initial and destination
folders and press the Next button (see Par. 5.5.4 and Par. 5.5.5).
106 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 5-7 Selecting data for copying dialog

There are two sections in the Selecting data for copying window.

The Archive content section is intended for selecting data according to the
mode in which measurements were carried out. There are following archives
in this section: Factory calibration, Continuous measurements,
Serviceability checkup, Diagnostics, Air Analysis.Monitoring, Instrument
settings and archives from the Sample Analysis modes:

Sample Analysis: Plot – contains graphs saved both in Calibration and

Analysis modes.

Sample Analysis: Measurement list – contains all data saved in the List of
Measurements.

Sample Analysis: Data for calibration – contains data for calibration

calculation from the table in the Calibration mode.

Sample Analysis: Calibration list – contains all data saved in the

Calibration list including calibrations and data used to establish them.

Sample Analysis: Statistics list – contains all data saved in the Statistics
list.
 Section 5 Settings 107

Selected/all column – number of selected samples/number of all samples of

the given type are displayed.

Selecting measurements to copy section is intended to select specified

measurements for copying. There are Time stamp and Description columns
in the section (corresponding the same columns in the Statistic list window).

There are service buttons at the bottom of the window:

• The Help button opens the help section for the Selecting data for
copying window.

• The Back button provides entering the Operating with archives

window (see Par.5.5.1).

• The Next button provides entering the Copying window (given that
at least one measurement in the Selecting measurements to copy
section is selected) (see Par. 5.5.3).

• The Cancel button provides cancelling copy procedure and closes

the Selecting data for copying window.

5.5.3 Copying window

To enter the Copying window (Fig. 5-8) select at least one measurement in
the Selecting measurements to copy section and press the Next button in
the Selecting data for copying window (see Par. 5.5.2). Copying starts
automatically and the progress bar will be displayed (Fig. 5-8).

Upon successful completion of the task, the “Successful copying” message

appears in the Copying window and the Ready! Button becomes active (Fig.
5-9). Press with button to close the Copying window and to enter the
Settings window.
108 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 5-8 Copying dialog

Fig. 5-9 Copying dialog upon successful completion of the task

 Section 5 Settings 109

5.5.4 Copying from the archive in working folder RAPID to the

external folder

To copy data from the archive in the working folder RAPID to the external
folder do the following:

1. Select the Export to a new database option in the Creating a copy of

archive or its part section in the Operating with archives window
(Fig. 5-6).

2. In the Select archive to copy data from drop-down list select archive
in the working folder RAPID, from which data will be copied.

3. Select an external folder or create a new one, in which archive or its part
will be copied. To select the external folder, click the Browse button. In
the opened Browse dialog (Fig. 5-10) select the folder and click the OK
button. To create a new folder in the opened Browse dialog (Fig. 5-10),
click the folder or a disk where the new folder is to be created, then
click the New folder button. Enter the name of the new folder and click
the OK button.

4. Click the Next button. In the opened Selecting data for copying
window (Fig. 5-7) select type of data to be copied in the Archive
content pane.

Fig. 5-10 Browse dialog

 110 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

To cancel data copying, click the Cancel button. The “Operating with
archives” window will close.

5. In the Selecting measurements to copy pane select items by ticking

them or press the Select all button to select all items. To undo the
selection, click the Deselect all button.

6. Repeat items 4-5 for all data types you want to copy. Click the Next
button.

7. The Copying window will open and the progress bar will be displayed
(Fig. 5-8).

8. Upon successful completion of the task, the “Successful copying”

message appears in the Copying window and the Ready! button
becomes active (Fig. 5-9). Press with button to close the Copying
window and to enter the Settings window.

5.5.5 Copying from the archive in the external folder to the archive
in the working folder RAPID

It is possible to copy data (merge archives) from an external archive (i.e. in an

external folder) to the archive in the working folder RAPID only if the data of
these archives correspond to the same instrument indicated by the name of
the archive in the RAPID folder. For example, data for the instrument stored
on the different computers can be merged by this procedure.

To merge archives. do the following:

1. Select the Import from external archive option in the Merging with
archive or its part section in the Operating with archives window
(Fig. 5-6).

2. In the Select archive to merge with drop-down list select archive in the
working folder RAPID to which data will be copied.

3. Select the source of data archive for the same instrument in the external
folder. To do this, click the Browse button, in the opened Browse
dialog (Fig. 5-10) select the desired archive and click the OK button.

4. Click the Next button. In the opened Selecting data for copying
window (Fig. 5-7) select type of data to be copied in the Archive
content pane.
 Section 5 Settings 111

To cancel data copying click the Cancel button. The “Operating with
archives” window will close.

5. In the Selecting measurements to copy pane select items by ticking

them or press the Select all button to select all items. To undo the
selection, click the Deselect all button.

6. The Copying window will open and the progress bar will be displayed
(Fig. 5-8).

7. Upon successful completion of the task, the “Successful copying”

message appears in the Copying window and the Ready! button
becomes active (Fig. 5-9). Press with button to close the Copying
window and to enter the Settings window.

5.6 Security settings

The Securirty settings window (Fig. 5-12, Fig. 5-19, Fig. 5-20, Fig. 5-21, Fig.
5-22, Fig. 5-23) is intended for management of security policies in compliance
with par. 1.3. Only the user with the group manager rights can open this
window. The group manager can be created when installing the RAPID
software (see Par. 7.2) as well as set by the representative of Lumex group
using special service software. The user without group manager rights cannot
open the Securirty settings window.

The Securirty settings window provides the following functions:

• The Users tab. Users’ accounts management (see Par. 5.6.1).

• The General settings tab. Changing parameters which are common for
all users (see Par. 5.6.2).

• The Events audit tab. Events log browsing (see Par. 5.6.3).

• The Archiving tab. Settings of archiving of audit logs (see Par. 5.6.4).

• The Signing documents tab. Signing files, created outside the RAPID
software, in batch mode (see Par. 5.6.5).

• The History tab. Browsing history of modification of working files signed

digitally (see Par. 5.6.6).
 112 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

To exit the Security settings window click the Exit button. The Finish work
dialog containing “Save changes?” question will open (Fig. 5-11).

Fig. 5-11 Finish work dialog

The following buttons are available in the opened window:

• The Yes button allows exiting from the dialog window (Fig. 5-11) with
saving all changes;

• The No button allows exiting from the dialog window (Fig. 5-11) without
saving any changes;

• The Cancel button returns to the Security settings window.

5.6.1 Users accounts managing

The Users tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-12) is designed for
managment of users’ accounts of the group. The group manager can create
new users and delete existing, as well as manage users’ accounts (changing
login, operator’s name, current status, password and language). The group
manager can also manage his own account and change some parameters like
login, operator’s name, language and password.
 Section 5 Settings 113

Fig. 5-12 The Users tab of the Security settings window

The Users tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-12) comprises the
table in which all users of the group are shown and the User section that
provides detailed information on the user selected in the table. This
information corresponds to the data, entered at program installing or in the
Add a new user dialog window (Fig. 5-13).

To add a new user, click the Add button on the Users tab (Fig. 5-12). In the
opened Add a new user window (Fig. 5-13) type in a login. which will be
displayed in the Authorization window, operator’s name, which will be
displayed in the Operator column in all types of lists, and a password, choose
a language from the dropdown list and click the OK button. The row with
information about new user will appear in the table on the Users tab of the
Security settings window (Fig. 5-14).

Fig. 5-13 The Add a new user dialog

114 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

To provide possibility for a user without the group manager rights to change
his password at his/her first entry into the program, select the Request for
changing the password at the first entry checkbox in the Add a new user
window (Fig. 5-13). At the first entry of this user into the program, after
entering the password set by the group manager, the Change password
dialog (Fig. 5-15) will appear in which the user sets his own password.

To cancel addition a new user, click the Cancel button in the Add a new user
window (Fig. 5-13).

Fig. 5-14 The Users tab of the Security setting window: After new user adding

Fig. 5-15 The Change password dialog

To delete a user, select the row of this user in the table of the Users tab (Fig.
5-12) and click the Delete button. This user will be removed from the group
and his/her access to the program will be denied.
 Section 5 Settings 115

To change the user’s name, click the Change button located to the right from
the Login/Operator’s name text field (Fig. 5-12). The Change user’s name
dialog window (Fig. 5-16) will open.

Fig. 5-16 The Change user name dialog

Type in a new login and Operator’s name in the appropriate text fields and
click the OK button in the Change user’s name dialog window (Fig. 5-16).
Click the Cancel button to cancel all changes and return to the Users tab of
the Security settings window (Fig. 5-12).

To change the RAPID software interface language for the selected user, click
the Change button (Fig. 5-12) located to the right from the Change language
text field. The Change language dialog window (Fig. 5-17) will open. Select
interface language from the list and click the OK button. Click the Cancel
button to cancel language changes and return to the Users tab of the
Security settings window (Fig. 5-12).

Fig. 5-17 The Language dialog

To change the password for the selected user, click the Change button
located to the right from the Date of password setting text field (Fig. 5-12).
The Password change dialog window will open (Fig. 5-15).

If the Change password at the start of the next session chekbox of the
Users tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-12) is selected, the
 116 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Password change dialog window will open (Fig. 5-15) at the next entry of this
user, in which the user can change the password by themselves.

To lock the selected user click the Lock button (Fig. 5-12) located to the right
from the Current status text field. In this case, the User is locked message
will appear (Fig. 5-18) at the attempt of entering the program with the locked
user credenza. To activate the locked user, click the Activate button located
to the right from the Current status text field.

Fig. 5-18 Message: The user is locked

The date and time when the user was added to the group are shown in the
Date of creation field (Fig. 5-12).

5.6.2 General parameters settings

The General settings tab of the Security settings window shown in Fig. 5-19
is designated for managing security parameters common for all users.
 Section 5 Settings 117

Fig. 5-19 The General settings tab of the Security settings window

In the Minimum password length (number of characters) field, set the

number below which the length of a password is not valid at new
appointments.

In the Password validity is not more than (days) field, set the value which
limits the time of the password validity. After this time has elapsed, the
changing of the user’s password becomes mandatory.

In the Permissible number of attempts to enter password field, set the

number of attempts of incorrect password entry. After this number of attempts
is used up, the user will be locked.

In the Number of previous passwords in the history field set the number of
previous passwords stored as passwords history. When the user creates a
new password, the previous one will be added to the history list. The software
forbids setting a new password that coincides with any of the passwords from
the passwords history.

In the Number of software operation sessions saved in the history field,

set the number of records in the history of file modification.

In the Inactivity period before locking (minutes) field, set the time after
which the session will be locked in the case of inactivity. To continue
operating, the user has to re-enter their password in the Authorization
window.

If the Check digital signatures when starting the program only (not
recommended) checkbox is selected, the verification of digital signatures of
files created in the RAPID software is executed only at the RAPID software
start. If the checkbox is deselected, the verification of digital signatures takes
place each time the software accesses the file.

If the Authorization only switch is selected:

- Authorization function is enabled (entry in the program using personal

password);

- Function of setting of access levels for different operators (service-

engineer, group manager, operator) is enabled;

- Function of logging of all events in the Audit log is enabled.

- Function of signing of all saved measurements (in the Operator column)

is enabled.
 118 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

If the Full FDA 21 CFR Part 11 support switch is selected, functions of

creation of digital signatures of files and automatic verification of the
signatures are added to the functions listed for the Authorization only switch.

5.6.3 Audit logs browsing

The Events audit tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-20) allows
browsing current and archive event logs using filtration on event type, user
and time intervals.

The Events audit tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-20) comprises
the table with events and information on them (type, date, time, information,
user, role and computer). In the lower section, there is detailed information on
the selected in the table event.

Fig. 5-20 The Events audit tab of the Security settings window

To select events from the log:

1. Select the log of interest from the drop-down list of archive logs in the
Events display settings section.

2. Select the event type of interest from the Event type drop-down list.
 Section 5 Settings 119

3. Select the user of interest from the User drop-down list.

4. Select the period of time to display events (by default the All data option
is active). To select a particular interval select the In the interval option
and set start and end dates of the interval in the from and till fields
respectively.

5. Click the Select button.

To save information of the events log displayed in the table in .txt or .html
format, click the Save button. The standard Save as window will open. Select
file format (.txt or .html) from the File types drop down list, type the file name
in the File name field, select the folder to save the file in the Folders section
(it is possible to save file in the network folder by clicking the Network button)
and click the OK button. To cancel saving the file and return to the Events
audit tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-20) click the Cancel button.

5.6.4 Archiving settings

The Archiving tab of the Security setting window (Fig. 5-21) allows to
specify conditions at which events audit logs are saved to the archive: on
reaching a specified size or at regular time intervals.

Fig. 5-21 The Archiving tab of the Security setting window

To save the current events audit log to the archive automatically:

 120 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• On reaching the specified size:

1. Select the On reaching the size (Kb) switch;

2. Set the limit size of the log in the counter field. When reaching the
set size, the log will be saved to the archive.

• At regular time intervals:

1. Select the At regular intervals (days) switch;

2. Set the number of days in the counter field. After the set period of
time has elapsed, the log will be automatically saved to the archive.

Set the size of archive (folder in which archive logs are saved) in the Storage
space for log archives (Mb) field. When the size of archive exceeds the set
value, the program will delete archive logs beginning from the earliest one.

To manually save the current log in the archive, click the Send the current
log to the archive button. The row with the log name, start and end dates and
size will appear in the List of audit logs in the archive table.

To delete the log from the archive, select it in the List of audit logs in the
archive table and click the Delete archive log button.

5.6.5 Digital files signing

This function is necessary when operating the software in the full support of
the security module mode (the Full FDA 21 CFR Part 11 support switch is
selected on the General settings tab of the Security settings window (Fig.
5-19)).

When operating the software in the full support of the security module mode
all files created in the RAPID software are automatically signed.

If it is necessary to operate in the RAPID software in the full support of the

security module mode with the data archives obtained in the RAPID software
installed on another computer or obtained in the RAPID software operating in
the mode without full support of the security module, this data archives shall
be signed. The Signing files tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-22)
allows signing required files in the batch mode.
 Section 5 Settings 121

Fig. 5-22 The Signing files tab of the Security settings window

To sign files, proceed as follows:

1. Set the path to the folder with the files to be signed in the Folder with
files for signing field (using the Browse button).

2. Select file types and select the Process files in subfolders checkbox (if
needed).

3. Click the Sign button.

Information on successful/unsuccessful files signing is displayed in the Result

of signing table. At signing procedure ending, the message containing
information about the number of files processed and the number of errors
occurred will appear.

5.6.6 History

The History tab of the Security settings window (Fig. 5-23) displays the
history of files signing (see par. 5.6.5) when operating program in the full
support of the security module mode (the Full FDA 21 CFR Part 11 support
switch is selected on the General settings tab of the Security settings
window (Fig. 5-19)). The History tab contains the table comprising Login,
Role and Date and time columns. Each row in the table corresponds to file
122 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

signing at its creation or modification in the RAPID software by the operator,

which name is displayed in the Login column.

Fig. 5-23 The History tab of the Security setting window

To display history of file modification:

1. Click the Browse button. The standard window will open, select the file
of interest in the opened window and click the Open button. The path to
the file will be displayed in the Filepath field.

2. Click the Show all history records button.

 Section 6 Operating with reports 123

6 Operating with reports

General principles of results report generation:

• Upon the operator’s command, the software automatically creates a

report on the basis of a previously created template;

• Created reports can be saved as a file and (or) printed out.

The program provides generation of several types of reports:

• Reports from Continuous measurements, Sample analysis, Air

Analysis.Monitoring, Factory calibration and Diagnostics dialog
windows. These reports can include the following items: the graph
displayed and saved in the window, the tabulated values of the
displayed measured parameters, the date of the report generation,
the type and serial number of the instrument, etc. (for more details
see Par.6.1).

• Report from the Calibration list dialog window. This report may
include the whole or partial information on calibrations stored in the
calibration list; the date of the report; the type and serial number of
the instrument etc. (for more details see Par.6.2).

• Report from the Measurement database dialog window. The report

can include the whole or partial information on the results of sample
measurements stored in the List of measurements, the date of the
report generation, the type and serial number of the instrument, etc.
(for more details see Par. 6.3).

• Report from the Statistic list dialog window. The report can include
the whole or partial information on the results of statistical
calculations stored in the Statistics list, the date of the report
generation, the type and serial number of the instrument, etc. (for
more details see Par.6.4).

• Report from the R-chart for repeatability conditions and

Accuracy check using RM or SRM windows. The report can
include the whole or partial information on the generated control
chart, the date of the report generation, the type and serial number
of the instrument, etc. (for more details see Par. 6.5)

For the each type of the report, the software provides creation of its own types
of templates (see Par. 6.9, 6.10, 6.11, 6.12, 6.13). The number of the created
 124 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

templates is unlimited but the report can be generated only on its own type of
the template.

The report is generated by the operator's command on a template set by

default (see Par.6.7).

6.1 Report from Sample analysis and Diagnostics dialog

windows

To create a report from Sample analysis, Factory calibration and

Diagnostics dialog windows, select the File/Report menu item in the
appropriate window. The ReportViewer window (Fig. 6-1) will appear on the
screen, showing the report created on a previously selected template set by
default (see Par.6.7).

To save the generated report, select the File/Save as menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-1) or click the button.

To print out the generated report, select the File/Print menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-1) or click the button.

To preview the results, select the Print preview menu item in this window

(Fig. 6-1) or click the button. The Windows standard preview window
will open (Fig. 6-2).
To configure Report template, use the Template editor (see Par. 6.8).
 Section 6 Operating with reports 125

Fig. 6-1 ReportViewer window

 126 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 6-2 Print preview window

6.2 Report from the Calibration list window

To generate a report from the Calibration list dialog window, proceed as

follows:

1. In the Sample analysis window select the Calibration operation mode

from the drop-down list (Fig. 4-1).

2. Click the Calibration list button.

3. In the opened dialog window select the required calibration using the
left mouse button.
 Section 6 Operating with reports 127

4. Click the Report button and the ReportViewer window will open (Fig.
6-3), which displays the report generated on the previously selected by
default template (see Par.6.7).

Fig. 6-3 Report from the Calibration list dialog window

10. To save the generated report, select the File/Save as menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-3) or click the button.

11. To print out the generated report, select the File/Print menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-3) or click the button.

12. To preview the results, select the Print preview menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-3) or click the button. The Windows standard

preview window will open (Fig. 6-2).
 128 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

To configure Report template, use the Template editor (see Par. 6.8).

6.3 Report from the Measurement database window

To generate a report from the Measurement database dialog window,

proceed as follows:

1. Select the Analysis operation mode from the drop-down list in the
Sample analysis dialog window (Fig. 4-2).

2. Click the Measurement database button.

3. In the opened dialog window select the required calibration using the
left mouse button.

4. Click the Report button and the ReportViewer window will open (Fig.
6-4), which displays the report generated on the previously selected by
default template (see Par.6.7).

5. To save the generated report, select the File/Save as menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-4) or click the button.

6. To print out the generated report, select the File/Print menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-4) or click the button.

7. To preview the results, select the Print preview menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-4) or click the button. The Windows standard

preview window will open (Fig. 6-2).
 Section 6 Operating with reports 129

Fig. 6-4 Report from the Measurement database dialog window

To configure Report template, use the Template editor (see Par. 6.8).

6.4 Report from the Statistics list window

To generate a report from the Statistics list dialog window, proceed as

follows:

1. Click the Statistics list button in the top right corner of the Statistics
window.
130 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

2. In the opened dialog window set the time interval to display the list of
calculation in the View period section and select the project (see
Par.4.10.2).

Fig. 6-5 Report from the Statistics list window

3. Select the required lines by the left mouse button using the Ctrl and
Shift buttons if necessary.

4. Click the Report button and the ReportViewer window (Fig. 6-5),
which displays the report generated on the template previously
selected by default (see Par.6.7) will open.

5. To save the generated report, select the File/Save as menu item in

this window (Fig. 6-5) or click the button.

 Section 6 Operating with reports 131

6. To print out the generated report, select the File/Print menu item in

this window (Fig. 6-5) or click the button.

7. To preview the results, select the Print preview menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-5) or click the button. The Windows standard

preview window will open (Fig. 6-2).
To configure Report template, use the Template editor (see Par. 6.8).

6.5 Report from the “R-chart for repeatability conditions”

and “Accuracy check using RM or SRM” windows

To generate a report from the R-chart for repeatability conditions and

Accuracy check using RM or SRM windows, proceed as follows:

1. Enter the R-chart for repeatability conditions window or Accuracy

check using RM or SRM window following instructions laid down in Par.
4.10.3 or Par.4.10.4 respectively.

2. Click the Report button and the ReportViewer window (Fig. 6-5) which
displays the report generated on the template previously selected by
default (see Par.6.7) will open.

To save the generated report, select the File/Save as menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-5) or click the button.

To print out the generated report, select the File/Print menu item in this

window (Fig. 6-5) or click the button.

To preview the results, select the Print preview menu item in this window (Fig.

6-5) or click the button. The standard preview window of the operating
system will open (Fig. 6-2).

To configure Report template, use the Template editor (see Par. 6.8).
 132 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Fig. 6-6 Report from the R-chart for repeatability conditions window

6.6 Quick printing reports from Continuous measurement,

Sample analysis, Air Analysis. Monitoring, Factory
Calibration and Diagnostics dialog windows

To print out the report from the Continuous measurement, Sample

analysis, Air Analysis. Monitoring, Factory calibration and Diagnostics
operating dialog windows without preview, apply the File/Print command in

the main menu of the appropriate window or click the icon. The report is
printed out on the template previously selected by default in the Report
template settings window (see Par.6.7).
 Section 6 Operating with reports 133

To print the report, do the following:

1. In the appropriate dialog window select the File/Print menu item.

2. To preview the report before printing, select the File/Report... menu

item.

3. To customize the report templates, select the File/Report Templates

menu item.

6.7 Selecting report template by default

The RAPID Software provides the choice of templates for the report
generation and printout.

To select a template, enter the Report template settings window (Fig. 6-7).

Fig. 6-7 Report template settings dialog

The window can be entered:

• from the File/Report templates… menu item of the Continuous

Measurements, Sample analysis, Air Analysis. Monitoring,
Factory calibration and Diagnostics dialog windows;

• from the Calibration list window (Fig. 4-25) by clicking the

Template settings button;

• from the Measurement database window (Fig. 4-27) by clicking the

Template settings button.

• from the Statistics list window (Fig. 4-36) by clicking the

Templates button.
134 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

In the Report template settings window the Current template box shows
the template selected by default for generating reports.

By clicking the Browse button you can select any other template for the
chosen type of analysis, which will become a template by default.

Depending on from which window the Report template settings window is

opened, templates for a specific analytical task will be offered by clicking the
Browse button. For example, if you enter the Report template settings
window from the Calibration list window, by clicking Browse you can only
select a template (templates) for the output of the calibration results (Fig. 6-8).

Fig. 6-8 Select template dialog

In the Report template settings dialog window the following buttons are
available:

• The Browse button to open a dialog to select a template by default;

• The Edit button to open the Template Editor dialog window (see
Par.6.8) to edit a selected template;

• The New button to open the Template Editor dialog window (see
Par.6.8) to create a new template;

• The Help button to open help for this window;

 Section 6 Operating with reports 135

• The Apply button to close the Report template settings dialog

window with saving the template selected by default;

• The Cancel button to close the Report template settings dialog

window without saving settings.

6.8 Template editor

To open the Template editor window click the Edit or the New buttons in the
Report template setting window (Fig. 6-7). The left part of the Template
editor window contains a palette of widgets that you can use to create report
templates (Fig. 6-9). The list of widgets will vary depending on the type of the
created report template.

Fig. 6-9 Creating a report template for the Calibration list

In order to make out a report containing the necessary information, you should
first create a layer. To do this, select the Add command in the Layer menu or
click the button on the toolbar. A blue frame will appear in the right part of
the screen. If there are several layers, the blue frame highlights the active
layer (Fig. 6-9).
136 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

To insert a new layer between the existing layers, left-click and select the
layer before which the new layer is to be inserted, and select the Insert
command in the Layer menu or click the button on the toolbar.

A layer may be split into parts (maximum four) by using the Split command in
the Layer menu or the button on the toolbar (Fig. 6-10).

Split layers can be merged by the Merge command in the Layer menu or by
clicking the button on the toolbar.

Fig. 6-10 Creating a report template - Splitting layers at creating report template

To delete a layer, select Delete in the Layer menu or click the button on
the toolbar.

To insert a widget into the layer, move the mouse cursor to the required
widget and to drag it into the layer highlighted with the blue frame or to select
the required widget by the left mouse button and click the Add Widget button
located under the widgets palette (Fig. 6-11). You can locate widgets in the
template in any order but only one widget can be inserted in one layer.
 Section 6 Operating with reports 137

Fig. 6-11 Creating a report template - Adding of a widget

If the widget content does not fit the allocated size of the layer, the frame turns
red (Fig. 6-12). If this is a case, change the frame borders using the left
mouse button.

Fig. 6-12 Creating a report template - The content of the widget does not fit the
allocated layer size

If the widget contains text information, the template editor provides setting
vertical and horizontal alignment, font size and background colour of the text
using the Widget setting dialog window which appears by using the Setting
 138 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

command in the Widget menu (Fig. 6-13). In addition, for most widgets with
text information text editing is allowed.

Fig. 6-13 Creating a report template - Widget settings

Save the created report template. To do so, select the Save as command in

the File menu or click the button on the toolbar. The standard window to
save a file will open. Name the report template you have created, then click
the Save button.

To exit the Template Editor window, click the “Close” button in the upper right
corner.

6.9 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from

the Sample Analysis, Factory calibration and
Diagnostics windows

This template is used to print out the report by the File/Print command or by

clicking the icon. To create this template, do the following:

• Enter the File/Report templates… menu item. The Report

template settings window will open (Fig. 6-7).
 Section 6 Operating with reports 139

• Click the New button in this window. The Template editor appears
on the screen displaying a list of widgets to generate the printout
report template.

The following widgets are available:

• If the Put in a text widget is selected, the <put in a text> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. While creating a report
template, you can type in instead of the <put in a text> tag any text
in this layer, which will always appear in any report generated on
this template. You can set the font size of the entered text and its
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the Embed an image widget is selected, the standard window for

the file selection will open in which you can select an image file to
be embedded into this layer. This image will always appear in any
report generated on this template. You can change the image
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the widget Report created… is selected, the <report created>:

[dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] tag appears in the corresponding template
layer. Any report generated on this template will contain the time of
its generation instead of the [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] mask. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Software version widget is selected, the <software version>

tag will appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the firmware name and
number instead of the <software version> tag. This widget can be
inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Instrument name widget is selected, the <instrument name>

tag appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the name of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <instrument name> tag.
This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Serial number widget is selected, the <serial number> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the serial number of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <serial number> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.
140 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

• If the Results widget is selected, the <results> tag will appear in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain a table with results of measurements titled Results. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Plot only widget is selected, an image will appear in the

corresponding layer of the template. When you make out a report,
all graphs with the proper scale and the axes ratio will be displayed
instead of this image. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.

• If the Recalculate to ref. temperature widget is selected, the

<recalculate to ref. temperature> string appears in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain a text - either “Yes” or “No” - instead of the <recalculate
to ref. temperature> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.

• If the Recalculate to ref. pressure widget is selected, the

<recalculate to ref. pressure> string appears in the corresponding
template layer. Any report generated on this template will contain a
text - either “Yes” or “No” - instead of the <recalculate to ref.
pressure> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Operating cell widget is selected, the <operating cell> string

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the type of the operating cell instead of
the <operating cell> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.

• If the Cell pathlength, mm widget is selected, the <cell pathlength,

mm> string appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the pathlength of the
operating cell instead of the <cell pathlength, mm> tag. This widget
can be inserted in the report template only once. This widget is
accessible only for reports generated from the Diagnostics window.

• If the Comment widget is selected, the <comment> tag appears in

the corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this
template will contain the comment, which was entered by the
operator in the Comments to graph section of the Sample
Analysis window, instead of the <comment> tag. This widget can
be inserted in the report template only once.
 Section 6 Operating with reports 141

• If the Operator who obtained the data widget is selected, the

<Operator who obtained the data> tag appears in the corresponding
template layer. Any report generated on this template will contain
the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who obtained the
data> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template only
once. This widget is accessible only for reports generated from the
Sample analysis and Diagnostics windows.

• If the Operator who created the report widget is selected, the

<Operator who created the report> tag appears in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who
created the report> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once. This widget is accessible only for reports
generated from the Sample analysis and Diagnostics windows.

6.10 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from

the Calibration list window

This template is used to print out the report from the Calibration list window.
To create this template, do the following:

1. In the Sample analysis window, select the Calibration mode from the
drop-down list (Fig. 4-1).

2. Click the Calibration list button.

3. Click the Report templates button in the opened dialog window. The
Report template settings dialog window (Fig. 6-7) will open.

4. Click the New button in this window. The Template editor appears on
the screen displaying a list of widgets to generate the printout report
template.

The following widgets are available for the template from the Calibration list
window:

• If the Put in a text widget is selected, the <put in a text> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. While creating a report
template, you can type in instead of the <put in a text> tag any text
in this layer, which will always appear in any report generated on
this template. You can set the font size of the entered text and its
142 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in

the report template.

• If the Embed an image widget is selected, the standard window for

the file selection will open in which you can select an image file to
be embedded into this layer. This image will always appear in any
report generated on this template. You can change the image
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the widget Report created is selected, the <report created>:

[dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] tag appears in the corresponding template
layer. Any report generated on this template will contain the time of
its generation instead of the [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] mask. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Software version widget is selected, the <software version>

tag will appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the firmware name and
number instead of the <software version> tag. This widget can be
inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Instrument name widget is selected, the <instrument name>

tag appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the name of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <instrument name> tag.
This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Serial number widget is selected, the <serial number> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the serial number of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <serial number> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the widget Calibration created is selected, the <calibration

created>: [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] tag appears in the corresponding
template layer. Any report generated on this template will contain
the time of its generation instead of the [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss]
mask. This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the widget Calibration plot is selected, an image appears in the

corresponding layer of the template. When you make out a report,
all graphs with the proper scale and the axes ratio will be displayed
instead of this image. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.
 Section 6 Operating with reports 143

• If the Results widget is selected, the <Results> tag will appear in

the corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this
template will contain a table with results of measurements titled
Results. This widget can be inserted in the report template only
once.

• If the Calibration widget is selected, the <calibration> tag appears

in the corresponding layer of the template. Any report generated on
this template will contain the type of the calibration instead of the
<calibration> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Algorithm widget is selected, the <algorithm> tag appears in

the corresponding layer of the template. Any report generated on
this template will contain the applied algorithm instead of the
<algorithm> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Correlation coefficient widget is selected, the <correlation

coefficient> tag appears in the corresponding layer of the template.
Any report generated on this template will contain the value of the
correlation coefficient instead of the <correlation coefficient> tag.
This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Residual standard deviation widget is selected, the

<residual standard deviation> tag appears in the corresponding
layer of the template. Any report generated on this template will
contain the value of the residual standard deviation instead of the
<residual standard deviation> tag. This widget can be inserted in
the report template only once.

• If the Coefficient A widget is selected, the <coefficient A> tag

appears in the corresponding layer of the template. Any report
generated on this template will contain the value of coefficient A
instead of the <coefficient A> tag. This widget can be inserted in the
report template only once.

• If the S(H)blank widget is selected, the <S(H)blank> tag appears in

the corresponding layer of the template. Any report generated on
this template will contain value of Sblank or Hblank instead of the
<S(H)blank> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Calib name widget is selected, the Calib name: <calib name>
tag appears in the corresponding layer of the template. Any report
generated on this template will contain the name of the calibration
 144 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

correlation coefficient instead of the <calib name> tag. This widget

can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Operator who obtained the data widget is selected, the

<Operator who obtained the data> tag appears in the corresponding
template layer. Any report generated on this template will contain
the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who obtained the
data> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template only
once.

• If the Operator who created the report widget is selected, the

<Operator who created the report> tag appears in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who
created the report> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.

6.11 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from

the Measurements database window

This template is used to print out the report from the Measurements
database window. To create this template, do the following:

1. In the Sample analysis window, select the Analysis mode from the
drop-down list (Fig. 4-2).

2. Click the Measurement database button.

3. Click the Report templates button in the opened dialog window. The
Report template settings dialog window (Fig. 6-7) will open.

4. Click the New button in this window. The Template editor appears on
the screen displaying a list of widgets to generate the printout report
template.

The following widgets are available for the template from the Measurements
database window:

• If the Put in a text widget is selected, the <put in a text> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. While creating a report
template, you can type in instead of the <put in a text> tag any text
in this layer, which will always appear in any report generated on
 Section 6 Operating with reports 145

this template. You can set the font size of the entered text and its
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the Embed an image widget is selected, the standard window for

the file selection will open in which you can select an image file to
be embedded into this layer. This image will always appear in any
report generated on this template. You can change the image
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the widget Report created is selected, the <report created>:

[dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] tag appears in the corresponding template
layer. Any report generated on this template will contain the time of
its generation instead of the [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] mask. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Software version widget is selected, the <software version>

tag will appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the firmware name and
number instead of the <software version> tag. This widget can be
inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Instrument name widget is selected, the <instrument name>

tag appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the name of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <instrument name > tag.
This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Serial number widget is selected, the <serial number> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the serial number of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <serial number> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Results widget is selected, the <results> tag will appear in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain a table with results of measurements titled Results. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Operator who created the report widget is selected, the

<Operator who created the report> tag appears in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who
created the report> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.
 146 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

6.12 Creating a template for reports to be printed out from

the Statistics list window

This template is used to print out the report from the Statistics list window.
To create this template, do the following:

1. Click the Statistics list button in the top right corner of the Statistics
window (Fig. 4-31).

2. Click the Report templates button in the opened dialog window. The
Report template settings dialog window (Fig. 6-7) will open.

3. Click the New button in this window. The Template editor appears on
the screen displaying a list of widgets to generate the printout report
template.

The following widgets are available for the template from the Statistics list
window:

• If the Put in a text widget is selected, the <put in a text> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. While creating a report
template, you can type in instead of the <put in a text> tag any text
in this layer, which will always appear in any report generated on
this template. You can set the font size of the entered text and its
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the Embed an image widget is selected, the standard window for

the file selection will open in which you can select an image file to
be embedded into this layer. This image will always appear in any
report generated on this template. You can change the image
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the Software version widget is selected, the <software version>

tag will appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the firmware name and
number instead of the <software version> tag. This widget can be
inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Instrument name widget is selected, the <instrument name>

tag appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the name of the instrument
 Section 6 Operating with reports 147

connected to the program instead of the <instrument name > tag.

This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Serial number widget is selected, the <serial number> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the serial number of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <serial number> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the widget Report created is selected, the <report created>:

[dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] tag appears in the corresponding template
layer. Any report generated on this template will contain the time of
its generation instead of the [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] mask. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Project name widget is selected, the <project name> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the project name of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <project name> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the The results of measurement widget is selected, the <The

results of measurement> tag will appear in the corresponding
template layer. Any report generated on this template will contain a
table with measurement results headed as The results of
measurements. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Operator who created the report widget is selected, the

<Operator who created the report> tag appears in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who
created the report> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.

6.13 Creating a template for reports from the “R-chart for

repeatability conditions” and “Accuracy check using
RM or SRM” windows

To create template from the R-chart for repeatability conditions and

Accuracy check using RM or SRM windows do the following:
148 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

1. Enter the R-chart for repeatability conditions window or Accuracy

check using RM or SRM window following instructions of Par. 4.10.3
or Par.4.10.4 respectively.

2. Click the New button in this window. The Template editor appears on
the screen, displaying a list of widgets to generate the printout report
template.

The following widgets are available for the template from the Statistics list
window:

• If the Put in a text widget is selected, the <put in a text> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. While creating a report
template, you can type in instead of the <put in a text> tag any text
in this layer, which will always appear in any report generated on
this template. You can set the font size of the entered text and its
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the Embed an image widget is selected, the standard window for

the file selection will open in which you can select an image file to
be embedded into this layer. This image will always appear in any
report generated on this template. You can change the image
alignment on the layer. This widget can be repeatedly inserted in
the report template.

• If the Project name widget is selected, the <project name> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the project name of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <project name> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the The results of measurement widget is selected, the <The

results of measurement> tag will appear in the corresponding
template layer. Any report generated on this template will contain a
table with measurement results headed as The results of
measurements. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Plot widget is selected, an image appears in the

corresponding layer of the template. When you make out a report,
the graph with the proper scale and the axes ratio will be displayed
instead of this image. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.
 Section 6 Operating with reports 149

• If the Number of measurements widget is selected, the <Number

of measurements> tag will appear in the corresponding template
layer. Any report generated on this template will contain the number
of measurements instead of the <Number of measurements> tag.
This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Middle line widget is selected, the <Middle line> tag will
appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the Central line, % value instead of the
<Middle line> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Warning limit widget is selected, the <Warning limit> tag will
appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the Warning limit, % value instead of
the <Warning limit> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.

• If the Action limit widget is selected, the <Action limit> tag will
appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the Action limit, % value instead of the
<Action limit> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Points widget is selected, the <Points> tag will appear in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain the total number of points on the chart instead of the
<Points> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template only
once.

• If the Mean_RD widget is selected, the <Mean_RD> tag will appear

in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this
template will contain the Mean relative bias, % value instead of the
<Mean_RD> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Above warning limit widget is selected, the <Above warning

limit> tag will appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the number of
measurements above warning limit instead of the <Above warning
limit> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template only
once.

• If the Above action limit widget is selected, the <Above action

limit> tag will appear in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the number of
150 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

measurements above action limit instead of the <Above action limit>

tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Software widget is selected, the <software> tag will appear in

the corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this
template will contain the software name and number instead of the
<software > tag. This widget can be inserted in the report template
only once.

• If the Instrument name widget is selected, the <instrument name>

tag appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report
generated on this template will contain the name of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <instrument name > tag.
This widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the widget Report created is selected, the <report created>:

[dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] tag appears in the corresponding template
layer. Any report generated on this template will contain the time of
its generation instead of the [dd.mm.yyyy. hh:mm:ss] mask. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Serial number widget is selected, the <serial number> tag

appears in the corresponding template layer. Any report generated
on this template will contain the serial number of the instrument
connected to the program instead of the <serial number> tag. This
widget can be inserted in the report template only once.

• If the Operator who created the report widget is selected, the

<Operator who created the report> tag appears in the
corresponding template layer. Any report generated on this template
will contain the operator’s name instead of the <Operator who
created the report> tag. This widget can be inserted in the report
template only once.
 Section 7 RAPID Software installation 151

7 RAPID Software installation

7.1 System requirements

To install and use the Software, the following requirements related to the PC
should be met:

• Processor frequency of at least 1.2 GHz;

• At least 512 MB of RAM;

• At least 20 MB of free hard disk space (not less than 20 MB after

the installation of the software for storing data).

• A free USB-port to connect the interface cable;

• A mouse connected to the computer via a PS/2 or USB-port;

• Screen resolution of at least 1024x786 pixels.

Warning:
When installing a lower resolution you may face problems while
trying to resize dialog windows.

• Any of the following operating systems: Windows 7 and higher must

be installed on your computer.

For power supply of the Instrument and PC it is recommended to use

a single phase mains, therefore the PC and RA-915W should be
powered through a surge protector type «Pilot-Pro».
 152 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

7.2 Software installation

For the initial installation of the RAPID software, do the following:

1. Turn on the personal computer;

2. Using a USB interface cable, connect the instrument and the computer
plugging one end of the cable to the USB-port on the instrument panel
and the other end with the computer USB port;

3. Start setup.exe file for software installation from the storage device,
which is a mandatory part of the delivery;

4. In the opened Select language window, select a language for the

interface of the Installshield Wizard software. The documentation in
the pdf format will also be available in the selected language. Click the
Next button;

5. In the User Information window enter the user’s name and the
company name, then click the Next button;

6. In the opened dialog box, indicate the folder to which the RAPID files
will be installed. The path C:\ Lumex\ Rapid is offered by default. To
change the path, click the Change button, select the required folder
and click the Next button.

7. In the next Select setup window, select the type of installation. The
following options are offered:

• Basic to install all components of the program;

• Custom to select a set of components to be installed – it is possible

to install the software with or without documentation.
It is recommended to choose the Basic type. After selection, click
the Next button;

8. In the Add new group window type the group name, login (displayed in
the Authorization window) and operator’s name (displayed in the
Operator column of all types of lists) for the group manager, select the
user’s interface language. To provide possibility for the user to change
his password at the first entry into the program, select the Change
password at the first entry checkbox in the Add new group window.
Click the Next button;

9. In the Select next action window select an option:

 Section 7 RAPID Software installation 153

• The Continue the installation to continue the installation process;

• The Add group to create a new group and enter the information
about the group manager (login, operator’s name, interface
language and password);

• The Add user to create a new user in any existing group and enter
the information about the user (login, operator’s name, interface
language and password).

After selection, click the Next button.

10. In the opened window click the Install button;

11. The Check setup information window will open. Make sure that the
correct information is entered and click the Next button.

12. After the RAPID installation program has performed all operations, a
window to install drivers will open. After closing this window, the
software will be completely installed.

To update the installed version of the RAPID software, do the following:

1. Turn on the personal computer;

2. Using a USB interface cable, connect the instrument and the computer
by connection the USB-port of the instrument to the computer USB port;

3. Start setup.exe file for software installation from the storage device;

4. In the opened Installshield Wizard software window select an option:

- Install for the initial installation of the software.

- Repair to update the RAPID software with version higher than 1.00.432.
Upon the update, all archive data and previously created users remain.

- Remove to remove the software from the computer with saving all
archives data (in the repos folder).

To update the RAPID software with version lower than 1.00.432, first
remove the installed software by selecting the Remove option. Then
install the software following the instructions for the initial
installation.
154 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

Please note that after removing the RAPID software the data archives
remain in the repos folder stored in the folder chosen at the previous
installation.

5. Click the Finish button.

 Section 8 License Agreement 155

8 License Agreement

1. Agreement Contents

1.1 In accordance with this agreement you are granted the right to work with
programs supplied by LUMEX INSTRUMENTS as well as a set of
accompanying documentation. The right of use is exclusive and not
transferable.

1.2 Selection of software and consultations on your intended method of use

under this agreement can only be regarded as supporting guidance and
technical support. You are solely responsible for the choice and applicability of
the program to your planned tasks.

2. Application

Methods of the software application are defined in the documentation referred

to herein. Any other supplementary agreements shall be valid only if
concluded in writing. All program modifications made to meet the customer’s
requirements should be agreed in a separate document. LUMEX
INSTRUMENTS shall not be responsible for operation of the program in
application fields which are not standard in the appropriate industry.

3. Licensing

3.1 This license agreement entitles you to use the software copy purchased
from LUMEX INSTRUMENTS maximum on one computer at any time. If you
are planning a simultaneous use of the program, you must purchase an
additional license. Backup software storage on an auxiliary storage device or
hard disk is admissible. Storing the program on a network server with an
ability to use the program on other computers is not admissible. You are
responsible for providing appropriate conditions for the program under the
above-mentioned conditions.

3.2 You may not sell, resell, lease, rent and provide the software for temporary
use. You may not assign the rights to use the program to third parties.

3.3 Structural analysis of the modules and parts of the program, decompilation
and disassembly are possible only when absolutely required to obtain
necessary information to ensure interoperability of the program with other
software, provided that such information was not published, made available in
the public domain or received from the representatives of LUMEX
INSTRUMENTS on your request. Only with these conditions observed,
156 RAPID User’s Manual B0300-00-00-000 UM

LUMEX INSTRUMENTS allows the program decompilation under the

Copyright Law. In this case, you are obliged to notify LUMEX INSTRUMENTS
on what programs or parts thereof you intend to decompile. The copyright of
LUMEX INSTRUMENTS must not be violated. Access to information on
decompiling the program may be given in the accordance with the
supplementary agreement with LUMEX INSTRUMENTS.

3.4 Reproduction of information materials accompanying the software,

including user manuals and other written documentation, as well as particular
chapters or parts thereof is prohibited.

3.5 You are responsible for ensuring that all users of this software are aware
of and agree with the property rights of LUMEX INSTRUMENTS to this
software product, as well as the restrictions on operation with this program
under this license agreement.

4. Warranty

4.1 LUMEX INSTRUMENTS ensures that the supplied software has all the
functionalities described in the documentation enclosed to the software under
the terms stated herein.

4.2 You can submit warranty claims to LUMEX INSTRUMENTS within 6

months from the receipt of the software product.

4.3 If within the warranty period (6 months) you have detected any defects in
the software, which significantly lower the quality and value of obtained
results, LUMEX INSTRUMENTS undertakes to provide necessary
maintenance updates or new program versions as they become available
without additional costs of the customer. For such corrections to be made in
the program, the following conditions are mandatory: reproducibility of the
program defects, a detailed description of the defects detected and immediate
notification of LUMEX INSTRUMENTS on the defects found.

4.4 LUMEX INSTRUMENTS must satisfy the customer requirements, in

particular by payment of compensation for damage, according to paragraph 5
hereof.

5. Liability of LUMEX INSTRUMENTS

5.1 LUMEX INSTRUMENTS shall be liable in accordance with the legal

regulations and the terms of this License Agreement only for intentionally
caused damage.
 Section 8 License Agreement 157

5.2 LUMEX INSTRUMENTS shall be liable for flagrant negligence committed

in development of programs, as well as in the case of proven violations of the
terms hereof on its part.

5.3 In the case of proven violations of the terms hereof, LUMEX

INSTRUMENTS shall only be liable for damage caused directly by the
program in the standard conditions.

6. Form of Agreements

All agreements and any amendment thereto shall be set out only in writing.