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EPOCH XT

Users Manual

910-264-EN Revision G
June 2011

Olympus NDT, 48 Woerd Avenue, Waltham, MA 02453, USA


2006, 2007, 2010, 2011 Olympus NDT, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, translated, or distributed without the express
written permission of Olympus NDT, Inc.
This document was prepared with particular attention to usage to ensure the
accuracy of the information contained therein. It corresponds to the version of the
product manufactured prior to the date appearing on the title page. There could,
however, be some differences between the manual and the product if the product
was modified thereafter.
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
Part number: 910-264-EN
Revision G
June 2011
Printed in the United States of America
All brands are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners and
third party entities.

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table of Contents

Labels and Symbols ........................................................................................... 1


Important Information Please Read Before Use ..................................... 5
Intended Use .......................................................................................................................... 5
Instruction Manual ................................................................................................................ 5
Instrument Compatibility ..................................................................................................... 5
Repair and Modification ....................................................................................................... 6
Safety Symbols ....................................................................................................................... 6
Safety Signal Words ............................................................................................................... 7
Notes Signal Words ............................................................................................................... 8
Safety ....................................................................................................................................... 8
Warnings ................................................................................................................................. 8
EMC Directive Compliance .................................................................................................. 9
Warranty Information ......................................................................................................... 10
Technical Support ................................................................................................................ 10

1. Preface .......................................................................................................... 13
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7

Product Description ..................................................................................................


About This Document ..............................................................................................
Audience ....................................................................................................................
If You Have Documentation Comments ...............................................................
Revision History .......................................................................................................
Technical Help ...........................................................................................................
Service or Repair .......................................................................................................

13
14
15
15
15
16
16

2. EPOCH XT Physical Features .................................................................. 17


2.1
2.2
2.3

Transducer Connections .......................................................................................... 17


Optional Hardware Input/Output Port ................................................................. 18
Pipestand/Handle ..................................................................................................... 18

Table of Contents

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10

Bidirectional Hand Strap .........................................................................................


Battery Door and Compartment .............................................................................
Computer Connection Compartment ....................................................................
O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals ....................................................................
D-Ring Clips for Chest Harness Use ......................................................................
Display Protection .....................................................................................................
IP 67 Environmental Rating ....................................................................................

19
19
20
20
21
21
21

3. Operating the Power Supply ................................................................... 23


3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6

Using AC Line Power ...............................................................................................


Using Battery Power .................................................................................................
Operating Time for the Battery ...............................................................................
Replacing the Battery ................................................................................................
Charging the Battery ................................................................................................
Using C-Cell Alkaline Batteries ..............................................................................

23
24
24
25
25
26

4. Managing Basic Operations ..................................................................... 27


4.1
4.2

4.3
4.4

4.5
4.6

4.7

4.8

iv

Powering Up ..............................................................................................................
The EPOCH XT Keypad ...........................................................................................
4.2.1
Adjustment Using Enter and Slewing Keys ...............................................
4.2.2
Direct Access Adjustment Using Parameter and F Keys ..........................
4.2.3
Direct Entry of Parameter Values .................................................................
Summarizing Keypad Functions ............................................................................
Display Arrangement ...............................................................................................
4.4.1
Full-Screen Display ........................................................................................
4.4.2
Split-Screen Display .......................................................................................
4.4.3
Display Flags and Markers ...........................................................................
Menu Navigation ......................................................................................................
Instrument Setup Menu ...........................................................................................
4.6.1
General Tab .....................................................................................................
4.6.2
Editable Parameters (EditPara) Tab .............................................................
4.6.3
Status Tab .........................................................................................................
4.6.4
Owner Information Tab .................................................................................
Display Setup Menu .................................................................................................
4.7.1
Color Tab .........................................................................................................
4.7.2
A-scan Tab .......................................................................................................
Measurement Setup Menu .......................................................................................
4.8.1
EPOCH XT Measurements ...........................................................................
4.8.2
Meas Tab ..........................................................................................................
4.8.3
Gates Tab .........................................................................................................
4.8.4
Options Tab .....................................................................................................

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27
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43
44
46
46
47
48
49
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54
57
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61

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

5. Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver ................................................................. 63


5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4

Adjusting the System Sensitivity (Gain) ................................................................


Using the AUTOXX% Feature ..............................................................................
Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain ..........................................................
Pulser Adjustment ....................................................................................................
5.4.1
Pulse Repetition Frequency ..........................................................................
5.4.2
Pulser Frequency Selection (Pulse Width) .................................................
5.4.3
Pulse Energy ...................................................................................................
5.4.4
Damping ..........................................................................................................
5.4.5
Test Mode ........................................................................................................
5.5 Receiver Adjustment ................................................................................................
5.5.1
Digital Filters ..................................................................................................
5.5.2
Waveform Rectification .................................................................................
5.6 Custom Filter Sets .....................................................................................................

63
64
65
65
66
67
67
67
68
69
69
70
70

6. Managing Special Waveform Functions ................................................ 71


6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4

Reject ...........................................................................................................................
Peak Memory .............................................................................................................
Peak Hold ...................................................................................................................
Display Freeze ...........................................................................................................

71
72
73
74

7. Gates ............................................................................................................. 75
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9

Positioning Gates 1 and 2 .........................................................................................


Gate Measurement Modes .......................................................................................
Taking Thickness Readings .....................................................................................
Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings .............................................................
Locating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer ................................................
Measuring Signal Amplitude ..................................................................................
Operating in Time-of-Flight Mode .........................................................................
Using the Zoom Feature ..........................................................................................
Gate Alarms ...............................................................................................................
7.9.1
Threshold Alarms ..........................................................................................
7.9.2
Minimum-Depth Alarm ................................................................................
7.9.3
Minimum Depth Alarm with a Single Gate ...............................................
7.9.4
Minimum-Depth Alarm with Gate 2 Tracking ..........................................
7.9.5
Alarm-Condition Storage ..............................................................................

75
76
76
76
77
78
80
81
81
81
82
82
83
83

8. Input and Output Features ....................................................................... 85


8.1
8.2
8.3

VGA Output .............................................................................................................. 85


Analog Output .......................................................................................................... 86
Trigger Input and Output ........................................................................................ 88
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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

9. Calibrating the EPOCH XT ...................................................................... 91


9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5

Getting Started ........................................................................................................... 92


Calibrating with a Straight Beam Transducer ....................................................... 93
Calibration with a Delay Line Transducer ............................................................ 97
Calibration with a Dual Element Transducer ..................................................... 101
Calibrating with an Angle Beam Transducer ...................................................... 106
9.5.1
Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP) ......................................................... 107
9.5.2
Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta) ......................................................... 109
9.5.3
Calibrating for Distance .............................................................................. 110
9.5.4
Calibrating for Sensitivity ........................................................................... 114

10. Managing the Instrument Data Logger ............................................... 117


10.1 Data Logger Storage Capacity ..............................................................................
10.2 Data Logger Menu ..................................................................................................
10.2.1 Creating Data Files .......................................................................................
10.2.2 Data File Types .............................................................................................
10.2.3 Opening Data Files .......................................................................................
10.2.4 Saving to Data Files ......................................................................................
10.2.5 File Summary and Review ..........................................................................
10.2.6 Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibration) ...............................................
10.3 Reporting ..................................................................................................................
10.3.1 Report Header Setup ...................................................................................
10.3.2 Printing ..........................................................................................................
10.3.3 Instrument Resets .........................................................................................

118
119
119
120
137
139
140
143
145
145
146
149

11. Software Features and Options ............................................................. 151


11.1 Defining Active/Inactive Options .........................................................................
11.2 DAC/TVG .................................................................................................................
11.2.1 Description ....................................................................................................
11.2.2 Option Activation and Reference Correct ................................................
11.2.3 ASME & ASME-3 DAC/TVG ......................................................................
11.2.4 ASME-3 DAC Setup Example ....................................................................
11.2.5 Gain Adjustment Options ..........................................................................
11.2.6 Curve Adjustment GainAlso Called DAC Gain or TVG Gain ..
11.2.7 Transfer Correction ......................................................................................
11.2.8 JIS DAC ..........................................................................................................
11.2.9 20 %80 % DAC Option ..............................................................................
11.2.10 Custom DAC Curves Option ......................................................................
11.2.11 TVG Table Option ........................................................................................
11.2.12 TVG Table Setup ...........................................................................................
11.3 DGS/AVG .................................................................................................................

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153
153
154
155
156
161
163
164
165
165
166
169
170
173

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

11.3.1 Description ....................................................................................................


11.3.2 Option Activation ........................................................................................
11.3.3 Relative Attenuation Measurement ..........................................................
11.4 AWS D1.1/D1.5 ........................................................................................................
11.4.1 Overview .......................................................................................................
11.4.2 AWS D1.1/D1.5 and the EPOCH XT .........................................................
11.4.3 Operating the AWS D1.1/D1.5 Software ...................................................
11.5 B-scan ........................................................................................................................
11.5.1 Description ....................................................................................................
11.5.2 Choosing an Encoder and Accessories .....................................................
11.5.3 Getting Started ..............................................................................................
11.5.4 Performing A-Scan Calibration and Setup ...............................................
11.5.5 Selecting a B-Scan Mode .............................................................................
11.5.6 A-Scan Storage Settings ..............................................................................
11.5.7 Operating the B-Scan Software ..................................................................
11.5.8 Reviewing Depth and Distance Traveled (DT) Information ..................
11.5.9 Operating Minimum Depth Alarm ...........................................................
11.5.10 Operating Scan Speed Alarm .....................................................................
11.5.11 Operating Floating Gate and B-Scan .........................................................
11.5.12 Operating Echo-to-Echo Detection ............................................................
11.5.13 Saving B-Scan Data ......................................................................................
11.5.14 Viewing and Recalling Stored B-Scans .....................................................
11.5.15 Scan Color Palette ........................................................................................
11.6 Floating Gate ...........................................................................................................
11.6.1 Description ....................................................................................................
11.6.2 Option Activation ........................................................................................
11.6.3 Operating in 6 dB Mode ............................................................................
11.6.4 Operating in 12 dB Mode ..........................................................................
11.6.5 Using Gate Alarms .......................................................................................
11.7 Advanced Filters .....................................................................................................
11.7.1 Description ....................................................................................................
11.7.2 Option Activation ........................................................................................
11.7.3 Filter Setup Example ...................................................................................

173
174
179
180
180
181
181
185
185
186
187
187
188
193
193
195
195
196
197
199
199
200
200
201
201
201
203
203
204
205
205
206
208

Appendix A: Cable Assembly ..................................................................... 211


Appendix B: Sound Velocities ..................................................................... 213
Appendix C: Glossary ................................................................................... 217
Appendix D: EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications ............. 227
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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Appendix E: Parts List ................................................................................... 269


Index ................................................................................................................. 273

viii

Table of Contents

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Labels and Symbols

Safety-related labels and symbols are attached to the instrument at the locations
shown in the following figure and described in Table 1 on page 2. If labels or symbols
are missing or illegible, please contact Olympus.

Operation
instruction label

Serial number label

Labels and Symbols

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 1 Content of the rating plate label


Operation
instruction label

Serial number
label

Contains:

The WEEE symbol indicates that the product must not be


disposed of as unsorted municipal waste, but should be
collected separately.

Labels and Symbols

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 1 Content of the rating plate label (continued)


The China RoHS mark indicates the products Environmental
Friendly Usage Period (EFUP). The EFUP is defined as the
number of years for which listed controlled substances will not
leak or chemically deteriorate while in the product. The EFUP
for the EPOCH XT Series has been determined to be 15 years.
Note: The Environmental Friendly Usage Period (EFUP) is not
meant to be interpreted as the period assuring functionality
and product performance.

Labels and Symbols

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Labels and Symbols

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Important Information Please Read Before Use

Intended Use
The EPOCH XT instrument has been designed to perform nondestructive inspections
of industrial and commercial materials.

Do not use the EPOCH XT instrument for any purpose other than its intended use,
particularly for the inspection or examination of human or animal body parts.

Instruction Manual
This instruction manual contains essential information on using this Olympus
product safely and effectively. Before use, thoroughly review this instruction manual
and use the product as instructed.
Keep this instruction manual in a safe, accessible location.

Instrument Compatibility
Only use the EPOCH XT instrument with the following ancillary equipment:

Rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack (PN: EPXT-BAT-L)

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Optional standalone external battery charger (PN: EPXT-EC)

Charger/adaptor (PN: EP-MCA)

Handheld portable scanner with an internal encoder (EP4/ENC)

Using incompatible equipment can result in a malfunction and/or in equipment


damage.

Repair and Modification


The EPOCH XT instrument does not contain any user-serviceable parts.

Do not disassemble, modify, or attempt to repair the instrument to prevent human


injury and/or equipment damage.

Safety Symbols
The following safety symbols may appear on the instrument and in the instruction
manual:

General warning symbol:


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

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

High voltage warning symbol:


This symbol is used to alert the user to potential electric shock hazards higher
than 1,000 volts. All safety messages that follow this symbol shall be obeyed to
avoid possible harm.

Safety Signal Words


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Notes Signal Words


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

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

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

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

Safety
Before applying power to the EPOCH XT, verify that the correct safety precautions
have been taken (see the following warnings.) In addition, note the external markings
on the instrument that are described in the Important Information Please Read
Before Use section.

Warnings

General Warnings

Carefully read the instructions contained in the users manual prior to powering
on the instrument.

Keep the users manual in a safe place for further reference.

Follow the installation and operation procedures.

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

It is imperative to respect the safety warnings on the instrument and in the users
manual.

If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the


protection provided by the equipment could be impaired.

Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the


instrument.

Service instructions, when applicable, are for trained service personnel. To avoid
a dangerous electric shock, do not perform any service unless qualified to do so.
For any problem or question regarding this apparatus, contact Olympus or an
authorized Olympus representative.

Before powering on the instrument, you must connect the protective earth
terminal of the instrument to the protective conductor of the (mains) power cord.
The mains plug shall only be inserted in a socket outlet provided with a
protective earth contact. Never negate the protective action by using an extension
cord (power cable) without a protective conductor (grounding.)

Whenever it is likely that the ground protection is impaired, you must power off
the instrument and secure it against any unintended operation.

The instrument must be connected only to a power source corresponding to the


type indicated on the rating plate.

EMC Directive Compliance


FCC (USA) Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own
expense.

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

ICES-001 (Canada) Compliance


This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-001.
Cet appareil numrique de la classe A est conforme la norme NMB-001 du Canada.

Warranty Information
Olympus guarantees your Olympus product to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period and conditions specified in the Olympus terms and
conditions, available at http://www.olympus-ims.com/en/terms/.
The Olympus warranty only covers equipment that has been used in a proper manner
as described in this instruction manual and has not been subjected to excessive abuse,
attempted unauthorized repair, or modification.
Inspect materials thoroughly on reception for evidence of external or internal damage
that might have occurred during shipment. Notify the carrier making the delivery
immediately of any damage, since the carrier is normally liable for damage in
shipment. Preserve packing materials, waybills, and other shipping documentation in
order to establish a damage claim. After notifying the carrier, contact Olympus for
assistance with the damage claim and equipment replacement, if necessary.
This instruction manual attempts to teach the proper operation of your Olympus
product. The information contained herein is intended solely as a teaching aid and
shall not be used in any particular application without independent testing and/or
verification by the operator or the supervisor. Such independent verification of
procedures becomes more important as the criticality of the application increases. For
this reason, Olympus makes no warranty, expressed or implied, that the techniques,
examples, or procedures described herein are consistent with industry standards nor
that they meet the requirements of any particular application.
Olympus reserves the right to modify all products without incurring the
responsibility for modifying previously manufactured products.

Technical Support
Olympus is firmly committed to providing the highest level of customer service and
product support. If you experience any difficulties when using our product, or if it
fails to operate as described in the documentation, first consult the users manual, and

10

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

then, if you are still in need of assistance, contact our After-Sales Service. The list of
Olympus After-Sales Service centers is available at http://www.olympusims.com/en/service-and-support/service-centers/.

Important Information Please Read Before Use

11

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

12

Important Information Please Read Before Use

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

1. Preface

The preface contains the following introductory topics:

Product Description

About This Document

Audience

If You Have Documentation Comments

Revision History

Technical Help

Service or Repair

1.1

Product Description
The EPOCH XT is a high-performance, lightweight, and portable ultrasonic flaw
detector. This detector offers excellent ultrasonic performance, large dynamic range,
superior measurement resolution, a color-liquid crystal display, and an all-new user
interface. The EPOCH XT sets a new performance benchmark for portable flaw
detection and is a new instrument offering many performance, durability, and
operational enhancements when compared to previous EPOCH flaw detectors.
Enhancements include:

Case sealed to IP67 to assure environmental durability.

Complies with EN12668-1.

High Performance PerfectSquare Pulser Technology The instrument electronics


control both the leading and trailing edges of the pulse for precise width control
and excellent near-surface resolution while maintaining the superior penetration
power expected with a square wave pulser.

Preface

13

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

A 100 % digital, high dynamic-range receiver design with unprecedented TVG


performance.

Digital filters: Broadband, Narrowband, and High-pass filters for application


flexibility.

Five customizable measurement-display locations for time and amplitude


measurements from either Gate 1 or Gate 2.

New rapid parameter adjustment methods maximizing effectiveness of operator


inputs.

Large data logger for instrument setups and inspection data. Allows operator to
use corrosion thickness-gage file types.

USB client port for high-speed data transfer to a PC.

USB host port for printing and for USB drive storage.

Optional hardware I/O port for alarm outputs, trigger in/out, and encoder
compatibility.

We suggest reading through the information completely at least once with your
EPOCH XT in hand so that you can combine reading the descriptions and examples
with the actual use of the instrument. The technical specification for the EPOCH XT
flaw detector is available at: http://www.olympus-ims.com.

1.2

About This Document


This document is the Users Manual for the EPOCH XT. This manual describes
routine tasks for operating the EPOCH XT. These tasks include:

14

Operating the power supply

Managing basic operations

Adjusting the pulser receiver

Managing special waveform functions

Using the gates

Calibrating the EPOCH XT

Managing the data logger and data communication features

Using software options

Chapter 1

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

1.3

Audience
This document is intended for any operator using the EPOCH XT. Olympus
recommends that all operators have a thorough understanding of the principles and
limitations of ultrasonic testing. We assume no responsibility for incorrect operational
procedure or interpretation of test results. We recommend that all operators seek
appropriate training prior to using this equipment. Olympus offers a full range of
training courses including Level I and Level II Ultrasonic Testing, Advanced
Detection and Sizing, and Ultrasonic Thickness Gaging. For further information
regarding training courses, contact Olympus.
While the EPOCH XT is a continuously self-calibrating instrument, you must
determine regulatory requirements. Olympus offers calibration and documentation
services. Contact Olympus or your local representative with any special requests.

1.4

If You Have Documentation Comments


Olympus is always interested in improving its documentation. We value your
comments regarding this manual and other Olympus documentation.
Complete the survey at the back of this manual and send your documentation
comments to Olympus by using one of the following methods:

1.5

Send comments to Olympus. Attention: Technical Publications

Contact us at: info@Olympus-ims.com.

In all your correspondence, please include the title of the document, its part
number, release date, and the specific section upon which you are commenting.

Revision History
This document might require updating because of corrections or changes to the
product. Publication dates are updated when a change is made to the document. In
addition, the document number is also changed to reflect the revision.
The following table shows a list of revisions for this document.

Preface

15

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 1 Revision history


Date

1.6

Issue

Release version

August 2006

910-264A-EN

First release

October 2006

910-264B-EN

Update

January 2007

910-264C-EN

Update

February 2007

910-264D-EN

Update

February 2010

910-264-EN

Revision F

June 2011

910-264-EN

Revision G

Technical Help
For technical assistance, please contact Olympus. A list of our service locations with
full contact information is available online at: http://www.olympus-ims.com/.

1.7

Service or Repair
For calibration and repair status, call 877-225-8380.

16

Chapter 1

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

2. EPOCH XT Physical Features

The EPOCH XT has many physical features that are either completely new or
improved compared to previous EPOCH flaw detectors. It is important for the
operator to be familiar with the use and maintenance of these items.
This section covers the following topics:

2.1

Transducer Connections

Optional Hardware Input/Output Port

Pipestand/Handle

Bidirectional Hand Strap

Battery Door and Compartment

Computer Connection Compartment

O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals

D-Ring Clips for Chest Harness Use

Display Protection

IP 67 Environmental Rating

Transducer Connections
The EPOCH XT is supplied with either BNC or large LEMO transducer connectors.
The type of transducer connector is chosen when the instrument is ordered. If
necessary, it is possible to change the type of transducer connection at the factory for a
small charge.
While the selection of transducer connector is typically based on the operators
preference, it is important to note that the performance of these two connector types is
not equal. The environmental durability of the EPOCH XT depends in part on the

EPOCH XT Physical Features

17

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

connector style chosen because the BNC connectors are sealed and the large LEMO
connectors are not. The EPOCH XTs IP 67 environmental rating is applicable to
instruments with BNC connectors only. Instruments with large LEMO connectors
have not been certified to any IP environmental rating.

2.2

Optional Hardware Input/Output Port


EPOCH XT instruments are available with an optional 16-pin LEMO hardware
input/output (I/O) port next to the transducer connections. This port serves the
following functions:

B-scan for details see section 11.5 on page 185

Alarm Outputs for details see section 7.9 on page 81 and Appendix A: on
page 211

Trigger In/Out for details see section 8.3 on page 88

This LEMO connection is sealed to an IP 67 environmental rating when the supplied


cap is in place (and in good condition) or when the mating connector is plugged in. If
the connector is left open then it is not sealed and liquids might enter the instrument.
Olympus offers an EPOCH XT hardware I/O cable as an accessory with the
EPOCH XT with part numbers EPXT-C-16HW-6 (6 ft.) and EPXT-C-16HW-20 (20 ft.).

2.3

Pipestand/Handle
The EPOCH XT has a new pipestand/handle design chosen for its light-weight,
compact design, durability, and ease of adjustment. To adjust the position of the
pipestand/handle, the ball-detent mechanisms that locate the pipestand/handle allow
the position to be adjusted simply by pulling on the lower part of the
pipestand/handle.
The pipestand/handle is removable. This requires a 0.5 in. Crescent wrench to remove
the locator pins on both sides of the instrument. Once these have been removed, you
can slide the pipestand/handle out of the ball-detent mechanisms and then replace
them with the locator pins. This arrangement allows to use the D-rings for a chest
harness and removes the weight of the pipestand/handle.

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2.4

Bidirectional Hand Strap


The EPOCH XT has been designed with a bidirectional hand strap so that the
instrument can be held in the operators left or right hand. There are three mounting
points for the hand strap on the instrument: left, right, and bottom-center. The
bottom-center point should not need to be adjusted except for the removal or
replacement of the hand strap.

To reverse the hand strap

2.5

1.

Peel back the outer leather area that is held with Velcro to the adjustment strap
and the center leather section.

2.

Peel the adjustment strap upward to remove it from the center leather section.

3.

Replace the outer leather section now that the adjustment strap has been
removed.

4.

Gently pull the adjustment strap downward to remove it from between the pin
and the body of the instrument.

5.

Pull the adjustment strap under the instrument and around to the opposite-side
pin and place it between the pin and body of the instrument in the upward
direction.

6.

Peel back the outer leather area (formerly the inner leather area).

7.

Adjust the hand strap to a comfortable position by pulling the adjustment strap
and sliding the leather section.

8.

Attach the adjustment strap to the center leather section and close the other
leather section over the adjustment strap.

Battery Door and Compartment


The EPOCH XT battery door allows you to quickly access the battery compartment
without the need for tools. There are two quick-release buttons on the battery door
(on the left when looking at the back of the instrument). To open the door, these
buttons must be pressed fully and released, then the door can be slid out to the left. It
is important to do this carefully to avoid damaging the four plastic tabs that hold the
right side of the door in place.

EPOCH XT Physical Features

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

When returning the battery door to its place, these steps are reversed. It is important
to slide the door all the way to the left before attempting to re-engage the quick
release connectors. You must also take care to keep the battery door seal in place or
the instruments environmental seal could be damaged causing malfunctions.
The battery door also has a small hole that is covered on the inside by an
environmentally sealed membrane vent. This vent is a safety feature that is required
in the event that the instrument battery fails and emits gas. There is also a sticker on
the outside of the battery door explaining that this location contains a membrane vent.
This vent must not be punctured because it is part of the instruments environmental
seal.
The EPOCH XT has been designed to accept three battery types: lithium ion, nickel
metal hydride, or alkaline C-Cells. The instrument is supplied with a foam block to
help hold C-Cell type batteries in place, but this is not required for their use.

2.6

Computer Connection Compartment


On the lower-right side of the EPOCH XT there is a door that covers all of the
instruments office-type connections. The door has an integral O-ring seal to keep
liquids away from the unsealed connections behind the door. These connections are
the AC adaptor input, USB client port, and USB host port.
The computer connection compartment is held in place by two thumb screws. You can
also use a hexagonal wrench to manipulate these thumb screws as needed.

2.7

O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals


The EPOCH XT contains seals that are used to protect the instruments internal
hardware from the environment. These include:

20

Battery door seal

Computer connection compartment seal

Membrane vent

The main O-ring seal between the top and bottom halves of the case

The O-ring seal under the transducer connector plate

The gaskets located in the transducer connector plate assembly

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These seals must be maintained to assure environmental durability. Instrument seals


are evaluated and replaced as needed during the instruments annual calibration. This
should be performed by an authorized Olympus service center.

2.8

D-Ring Clips for Chest Harness Use


The EPOCH XT has four D-ring clips that can be used as mounting points for a chest
harness. These D-ring clips have been mounted at ruggedized locations to ensure
their integrity and prevent instrument damage. If a chest harness is being used, then
you must use all four points to support the weight of the instrument. You must not
expect that two D-rings can reliably support the instrument.
The D-rings can be removed if they are not required. The mounting points do not
penetrate the instrument case, so the instruments seal rests intact without the D-rings.

2.9

Display Protection
All EPOCH XT gages are shipped from the factory with a clear plastic sheet
protecting the instrument display window. It is advised that the operator leave this
sheet in place. Replacements are available in packages of ten with part number
EPXT-DP.
The display window in the EPOCH XT is permanently bonded to the upper half of the
instrument case to fully seal the instrument. If the display window becomes
damaged, the entire upper half of the case must be replaced along with the
instrument keypad.
Olympus also offers a rubber protective case with an integrated (and replaceable)
plastic display shield. Contact Olympus or your local representative for more
information.

2.10 IP 67 Environmental Rating


The EPOCH XT has been designed to provide customers with an extremely rugged
and durable instrument that can be used in harsh environments. In order to classify
the instruments durability in wet or damp environments, many manufacturers,
including Olympus, have adopted the IP (Ingress Protection) system to rate how well
the instrument is sealed.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

The EPOCH XT has been tested to the requirements of IP 67 environmental rating. All
instruments ordered with BNC transducer connectors are designed to meet this level
of ingress protection when they leave the factory. In order to maintain this level of
protection, the operator is responsible for the proper care of all routinely exposed
seals, O-rings, membranes, etc. (discussed in section 2.7 on page 20). Additionally,
you are responsible for returning the instrument to an authorized Olympus service
center each year to ensure that the instrument seals are properly maintained.
Olympus cannot guarantee any level of ingress protection performance once the
instrument seals have been manipulated. You must use sound judgment and take
proper precautions before exposing the instrument to harsh environments.

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3. Operating the Power Supply

This chapter contains sections describing how to operate the EPOCH XT using
different power supply options. The topics are as follows:

Using AC Line Power

Using Battery Power

Operating Time for the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Charging the Battery

Using C-Cell Alkaline Batteries

3.1

Using AC Line Power


AC line power is supplied by means of the charger/adaptor (part number EP-MCA).
The EP-MCA has a universal AC power input, so it operates with any line voltage
from 100 VAC to 120 VAC or 200 VAC to 240 VAC and with 50 Hz to 60 Hz line
frequency.

To use AC line power


1.

Connect the power cord to the charger/adaptor unit and to an appropriate line
power source.

Operating the Power Supply

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Use only the AC power cord supplied with the EPOCH XT. Do not use this AC power
cord with other products.
2.

Open the sealed Computer connection compartment on the right side of the
EPOCH XT.

3.

Connect the DC output power cable from the charger/adaptor to the charger/AC
adaptor input jack inside the door (top connection).

4.

Turn on the EPOCH XT using the keypad.

5.

Proceed with normal operation.

3.2

Using Battery Power


The EPOCH XT is offered with the choice of lithium-ion (Li-ion) or nickel metal
hydride (NiMH) batteries. Alkaline C-Cell batteries can also be used. All EPOCH XT
instruments have been designed to accept these three battery types without any
modifications or adjustments.
The battery-life symbol is always present at the upper-right corner of the instrument
display. The battery indicator contains five bars to communicate the remaining
battery life. Each bar represents 20 % of life remaining: 5 bars equals 100 %, 4 bars
equals 80 %, and so on. The battery indicator is accurate after 5 to 10 minutes of use.

3.3

Operating Time for the Battery


Battery operating time depends on the type of battery being used, the age of the
battery, and the instrument settings. In order to provide realistic battery operating
times, we have tested the EPOCH XT with mid-level operating parameters: pulse
energy 200 V, pulse frequency (width) 5.00 MHz, PRF 500 Hz, and display brightness
50 % (default setting). The nominal battery operating times for new batteries are:

24

Li-ion: 910 hours

NiMH: 45 hours

C-Cell: 12 hours

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It might take several cycles of complete charging and discharging of the battery to
bring the battery to full capacity. This conditioning process is normal for these types
of rechargeable batteries.

3.4

Replacing the Battery

The EPOCH XT charger/adaptor is designed to charge EPOCH XT batteries only. Do


not attempt to charge any other batteries. Doing so might cause an explosion and
injury. Do not attempt to charge other electronic equipment. This will cause
permanent damage.

To replace the EPOCH XT battery, follow the steps in section 2.5 on page 19 of this
manual. Be careful to avoid any damage to the door seal or membrane vent. The
battery should be removed by pulling the top of the battery away from the
instrument.
To insert a new battery, put the top of the battery in first to assure proper connection
with the instrument and then drop the bottom of the battery into the compartment.
The battery door should be returned to its place with care as described in section 2.5
on page 19.

3.5

Charging the Battery


The EPOCH XT battery can be charged internally using the EP-MCA charger/adaptor
or externally using the optional standalone battery charger with part number
EPXT-EC.
To charge the battery internally, you must open the computer connection
compartment and plug in the EP-MCA charger/adaptor. The battery charges when the
instrument is ON or OFF, but the charge rate is slower when the instrument is ON.
Operating the Power Supply

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

When the EPOCH XT is connected to AC power and powered ON, the battery
indicator displays a lightning bolt symbol instead of the standard indicator with
5 bars showing the remaining battery life.
You can also choose to use the external battery charger, EPXT-EC, to charge one
battery, while using another in the instrument. For more information regarding this
external charger, contact Olympus or your local sales representative.
If the battery is used daily (or frequently), connect it to the charger/adaptor when not
in use. Whenever possible, the battery should remain connected to the EP-MCA
charger/adaptor (overnight or over a weekend), so that it achieves 100 % full charge.
The battery must reach full charge on a regular basis for proper capacity and cycle-life
maintenance.
Recharge discharged batteries as soon as possible after use. Give a full recharge, as
described above.

Never place discharged batteries in storage without a full recharge.

Store batteries in a cool and dry environment. Avoid long-term storage under sunlight
or in other excessively hot places such as an automobile trunk. While in storage, fully
recharge batteries at least once every two (2) months.

3.6

Using C-Cell Alkaline Batteries


EPOCH XT instruments are shipped with the positive and negative contact points
inside the battery compartment for housing standard alkaline C-Cell batteries. These
batteries cannot be recharged using the EP-MCA charger/adaptor.
The EPOCH XT also ships with a foam block that can be inserted to hold C-Cell
batteries in place when the battery door is removed. This foam block is not required
for C-Cell battery use.
The EPOCH XT automatically recognizes that alkaline C-Cell batteries are being used.
No special settings or adjustments are required. When the EPOCH XT is using
Alkaline C-Cells, the symbol ALK appears in the place of the battery meter-level icon.

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4. Managing Basic Operations

This chapter describes how to get started with the basic EPOCH XT operation. Topics
are as follows:

4.1

Powering Up

The EPOCH XT Keypad

Summarizing Keypad Functions

Display Arrangement

Menu Navigation

Instrument Setup Menu

Display Setup Menu

Measurement Setup Menu

Powering Up
Pressing the [ON/OFF] key causes an initial beep. The instruments startup screen
appears. The instrument then goes through a series of self-tests for 45 to 60 seconds
and then starts up.

4.2

The EPOCH XT Keypad


The keypad functions have been grouped and color-coded according to function.
Most major instrument setup parameters can be accessed by pressing the
corresponding key or by pressing [2ND F] and the corresponding key.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

The most commonly used keys on the keypad ([GAIN], [FREEZE], [SAVE], [ENTER],
[MEAS/RESET], and the arrows) are located in a group next to the operators left
thumb. This arrangement is similar to the EPOCH 4 series and EPOCH LT.
The keys on the right side of the keypad that are surrounded by the gray line, are used
for access to their setup parameters as labeled and also as an alphanumeric keypad.
The top row of keys are the [F1] through [F5] software function keys used for direct
access to various parameter settings.
There are three methods for adjusting the instrument setup parameters in the
EPOCH XT:

Adjustment using the [ENTER] and slewing keys

Direct access adjustment using the parameter keys and F keys

Direct entry of parameter values

4.2.1

Adjustment Using Enter and Slewing Keys

These keys can be used to control all instrument functions that appear on the main
screen. The [ENTER] key toggles from one setup parameter to the next and then
cycles through them again. By pressing [2ND F] then [ENTER], you can go back one
setup parameter.
Each setup parameter can be adjusted with the left and right or down and up arrow
keys. For most parameters, left and right provide a fine adjustment and the down and
up provide a coarse adjustment. This new feature has been developed to allow a more
rapid adjustment of parameters.

4.2.2

Direct Access Adjustment Using Parameter and F Keys

Most commonly used parameters have their own assigned key or a second function
position on the instrument keypad. These keys are a direct access to the given
parameter. This method allows operators to quickly locate and activate a given
instrument function for adjustment. Once a parameter has been selected, you can
adjust its value using the slewing keys as described in section 4.2.1 on page 28 or by
using the preset function [F1][F5] keys on the top of the instrument keypad. The
function keys appearing below preset the values used for the selected parameter.

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4.2.3

Direct Entry of Parameter Values

The EPOCH XT rapid parameter adjustment method is called direct entry. This
method should be used when you know the exact value to use for a selected
parameter. To execute a direct entry of a value, press the appropriate parameter key,
press the [ALPHA/NUM] key, enter the parameter value on the instruments
alphanumeric keys, and then press [ENTER].

To set the instrument range to 650 mm (an example)

4.3

1.

Press the [RANGE] key.

2.

Press the [ALPHA/NUM] key.

3.

Type 6,5,0 on the alphanumeric keypad.

4.

Press [ENTER].

Summarizing Keypad Functions


The EPOCH XT is available with five different keypads. The most common are the
English keypad and the international keypad. Chinese and Japanese versions are also
available. The white keypad is the same as the English keypad but with a different
color palette. It was designed to reduce internal unit temperature in extremely hot
environments.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure 4-1 The EPOCH XT English keypad

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Figure 4-2 The EPOCH XT international keypad

Table 2 Keys
English

Intl

Color
BLUE

Function
Adjusts system sensitivity.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 2 Keys (continued)


English

32

Chapter 4

Intl

Color

Function

BLUE

Locks reference gain level and allows


scanning gain to be used.

GRAY

Accesses instrument setup menu to


control operator preferences, local
settings, clock, startup screen setup,
and provides instrument status
information.

GRAY

Accesses setup area for measurement


boxes, gate setup, and software
option setup.

GRAY

Accesses setup menu for the


instrument display and A-scan
appearance.

GRAY

Toggles between full-screen display


mode and split-screen display mode.

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 2 Keys (continued)


English

Intl

Color

Function

BLUE

Display freeze holds the displayed


waveform until [FREEZE] is pressed
again.

PURPLE

Saves instrument measurements,


setup parameters, and A-scans to
selected file and ID.

PURPLE

[MEAS/RESET] is a general purpose


key to get back to the live
measurement screen. Can be used to
escape from menus and to accept
parameter adjustments.

PURPLE

[ENTER] moves from one parameter


to the next and also accepts parameter
adjustments.

RED

[GATES] allows you to control both


instrument gates on screen.

RED

[2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS)


activates threshold or min. depth
alarms for both instrument gates.

ORANGE

[PULSER] toggles through pulser


parameters.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 2 Keys (continued)


English

34

Chapter 4

Intl

Color

Function

ORANGE

[RCVR] toggles through receiver


parameters.

RED

[PEAK MEM] allows to continuously


accumulate peak envelope data with
the live waveform.

RED

(PEAK HOLD) Allows to capture the


A-scan while viewing live waveform
on top of the captured A-scan.

YELLOW

[CAL] initiates the EPOCH XT


auto-calibration feature.

YELLOW

[ZERO] adjusts the instruments


calibrated zero position.

YELLOW

(ZOOM) zooms in to Gate 1 Width.

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 2 Keys (continued)


English

Intl

Color

Function

YELLOW

Adjusts the instruments material


sound velocity.

YELLOW

Displays linear reject

YELLOW

Adjusts the instruments range


according to the sound velocity
setting.

YELLOW

Display delay that does not affect the


calibrated Zero Offset.

YELLOW

Adjustment for refracted angle within


the test material. Used for the angle
beam sound path calculator.

Managing Basic Operations

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 2 Keys (continued)


English

36

Chapter 4

Intl

Color

Function

YELLOW

Adjusts part thickness settings. Used


for the angle beam sound path
calculator.

BLUE

With [ID] you can manually enter or


adjust an ID within the currently
active file.

BLUE

Accesses the instruments data logger.

BLUE

[ALPHA/NUM] begins direct entry of


parameter values on the live screen.

BLUE

Print function allows to print directly


to compatible USB printers (PCL5).

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

4.4

Display Arrangement
The EPOCH XT main screen can be displayed in two different modes: split-screen and
full-screen A-scan views. The split-screen display simultaneously shows the live
A-scan, measurements, and all instrument setup parameters. The full-screen A-scan
display shows a large A-scan, measurements, and the active setup parameter (based
on the operators selection).
When the EPOCH XT is powered on and has completed its self test procedure, the
split-screen view opens to allow you to review the setup parameters.
To switch between the split-screen and full-screen A-scan displays, press [2ND F], then
[DISPLAY SETUP].

4.4.1

Full-Screen Display

The full-screen A-scan display presents a large, high-resolution A-scan, up to five


user-selected measurements, time base information, the gain setting, the velocity
setting, and the active parameter, as selected by the operator.

Top of the screen

The filename, ID, measurements, battery indicator, and units (metric, US or


Imperial, s) are constantly displayed.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

The measurement boxes are customized by you, the operator. Each of the
measurement locations (up to 5) displays a symbol that lets you know what
type of measurement is being displayed.

Middle of the screen

The A-scan waveform is displayed.

A grid is typically displayed behind the A-scan. You can choose between
several grid modes based on application needs and/or preference.

Gate measurement icons are displayed on the right side of the screen. These
icons tell you the measurement mode for each gate and also flash when an
alarm is triggered.

On the right side of the display and below the gate measurement icons, the
instrument displays flags and markers that notify you when options are
active, when [FREEZE] is active, and other such conditions.

Bottom of the screen

4.4.2

Delay (Dly) and Range (Rng) always appear under the A-scan. These tell you
where in time the display window begins and ends.

Gain (Ref) and Velocity (Vel) are always displayed.

The active function (if not Dly, Rng, Gain, or Vel) is displayed.

Preset values for the selected instrument parameter are displayed on the
bottom of the screen.

Split-Screen Display

The split-screen display presents a condensed waveform along with all instrument
setup parameters. This screen is useful when establishing the initial instrument setup
as it enables a quick check of all setup information and allows to rapidly adjust while
viewing the live A-scan.

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The instrument setup parameters have been arranged into three main columns. The
left column contains calibration settings. The center column contains pulser settings
and can be directly accessed using the [PULSER] key. The right column contains
receiver information and can be directly accessed using the [RCVR] key. Gate settings
are displayed below these three columns of setup parameters.

4.4.3

Display Flags and Markers

To indicate when particular display functions are active, the EPOCH XT displays a set
of flags, or markers, to the right of the A-scan display. Table 3 on page 39 shows these
flags and provides a description of each.

Table 3 Display flags and markers


Flag

Description
This indicates that the [2ND F] key has been pressed.

Gate 1 is in Peak Measurement mode.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 3 Display flags and markers (continued)


Flag

Description

Gate 2 is in Peak Measurement mode.

Gate 1 is in Edge (or Flank) Measurement mode.

Gate 2 is in Edge (or Flank) Measurement mode.

Gate 1 is in First Peak Measurement mode.

Gate 2 is in First Peak Measurement mode.

[PEAK MEM] is active.

[2ND F] [PEAK MEM] Peak Hold (Ref Echo) is active.

Display [FREEZE] is active.

The Recall Freeze is active. Press [MEAS/RESET] to deactivate.

(ZOOM) is active.

The gate alarm has been triggered. Flashes on and off alternating
with gate measurement indicator.

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Table 3 Display flags and markers (continued)


Flag

Description
DAC/TVG is active.

DGS/AVG is active.

AWS D1.1/D1.5 is active.

Manual B-scan mode is active.


Unidirectional B-scan mode is active.
Bidirectional B-scan mode is active.
Battery life indicator when running on battery power.

Battery indicator when running on AC adaptor.

4.5

Menu Navigation
The three setup menus in the EPOCH XT have been designed to permit a rapid access
to important instrument setup functions. All of these menus share a general
navigation philosophy using the [ENTER] key and the up, down, left, and right arrow
keys. The menus themselves are constructed with tabs, sublevel tabs, control groups,
and parameters.
Tabs These are used for group-related functions within a setup menu. When you
enter a menu, there is a row of tabs running across the top of the screen. Use the left
and right arrow keys to select the desired tab. Once the proper tab has been
highlighted, press the [ENTER] key to enter the tab.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Sublevel tabs In some of the tabs that you select, there are other subgroups of tabs.
These tabs run vertically from the top to the bottom of the display. The OPTIONS tab
in the [MEAS SETUP] menu and the EditPara tab in the [INSTR SETUP] menu are
examples of this. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the desired sublevel tab.
Once the proper sublevel tab has been highlighted, press the [ENTER] key to enter the
sublevel tab.
Control Groups The parameters inside a tab are organized into control groups
containing related functions. These control groups are surrounded by a box to divide
one control group from another. You must use the [ENTER] key to move from a tab to
the first control group, then the next control group. When the last control group in a
tab is active and press the [ENTER] key, the instrument highlights the tab again. You
can also use [2ND F], [ENTER] to move back one control group.
Parameters Parameters are found within the control group. When you select a
control group with the [ENTER] key, the instrument automatically selects the first
parameter in the group. Use the up and down arrow keys to select a parameter and
the left and right arrow keys to adjust the parameter value. In some cases the
parameter does not have fixed selections, and you can use the alphanumeric keys to
manually enter text or values.

4.6

Instrument Setup Menu


The EPOCH XT Instrument Setup menu contains functions that set up the instrument
according to local requirements and based on your user preferences. This menu also
allows you to lock instrument functions if required, check the status of the
EPOCH XT, and edit the instrument startup screen with your company information
(Owner Info).
There are four individual tabs in the Instrument Setup menu. When the menu is
accessed, the first tab, General, is highlighted. Use the left and right arrow keys to
move from one tab to the next. To enter a selected tab, press the [ENTER] key. Once
the tab has been accessed, use the [ENTER] key to move from one control group to the
next and the arrow keys to select and adjust parameters.
To exit the instrument setup menu, press [MEAS/RESET] or the [INSTR SETUP] key.

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The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH XT menu at any time. This
key returns to the live screen from any location within the instruments user interface.

4.6.1

General Tab

Pulser

Square Standard tunable square wave pulser.

Spike Locks the pulser to a narrow width to allow to use with all
transducers. This setting is used to simplify the instrument setup when
the performance advantages of the tunable pulser are not required.

Filter Group

Standard Standard accesses the standard instrument filters when you


press the [RCVR] key on the live screen.

Other Filter Groups Olympus produces other custom filter groups


based on customer requirements. These can be selected here. When an
alternative filter group is selected, you are only able to use the custom
filters when the [RCVR] key is pressed on the live screen.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

4.6.2

Language Standard languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian,


Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Korean, Norwegian, Swedish, and Custom
language.

Key Beep When active, the instrument beeps whenever a key is pressed.

Alarm Beep Toggles the alarm horn on and off.

All Lock When active, this function locks all keys other than [2ND F],
[DISPLAY SETUP], and [ON/OFF]. A padlock symbol appears on the live
screen when this function is active.

Cal Lock When active, this function locks the following keys: [GAIN],
[CAL], [ZERO], [RANGE], [VEL], [ANGLE], [PULSER], and [RCVR].

Temp Cal Used to select the automatic or manual temperature calibration.

Locale Used to select the global location. The instrument uses this
information to properly format numeric displays (radix) and the date.

Date Sets the instrument date.

Time Sets the instrument time.

Editable Parameters (EditPara) Tab

Editable parameters are standard on all EPOCH XT instruments. With this feature
you can customize the values that appear above the function [F1][F5] keys for the
setup parameters below. These items are listed as sublevel tabs, and each contains 13
control groups with parameters.

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Gain

Gain Step Universal setting for the coarse (up and down arrows) and fine (left
and right arrows) gain adjustment

Reject

Zero Offset

Freq (Frequency) Pulse-width setting

Vel (Velocity)

Rng (Range)

Dly (Delay) Display delay

Angle

Thickness

AutoXX Customizable value for the AUTO80 % feature discussed in chapter 5


on page 63 of this manual

Parameters that contain text, such as rectification, cannot be adjusted. Also,


parameters that are limited by hardware and/or software constraints, such as
damping, cannot be adjusted.

To setup the editable parameters


1.

Press the [ENTER] key to select the EditPara tab.

2.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select a sublevel tab for the parameters to be
adjusted.

3.

Press the [ENTER] key to move to the control group and then use the up and
down arrow keys to select the parameter to be adjusted.

4.

Press the left and right arrow keys to adjust the setting.

5.

Press the [ENTER] key to move to the next control group or to the sublevel tabs.

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4.6.3

Status Tab

The instrument Status tab provides you with useful information related to
internal-temperature, battery capacity, and hardware/software versions. This
information might be used by Olympus to help support the product.

4.6.4

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Owner Information Tab

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The owner information screen (Owner Info) tab allows you to customize the
EPOCH XT startup sequence. At the end of the startup sequence there is a splash
screen where the information entered here appears. This is typically used to enter the
instrument owners company information and contact information. An example is
shown below.

4.7

Display Setup Menu


The EPOCH XT Display Setup menu contains functions that control the EPOCH XTs
display appearance. These functions include color scheme, display brightness, and
A-scan appearance.
There are two individual tabs in the Display Setup menu. When the menu is accessed,
the first tab Color is highlighted. You can use the arrow keys to move from one tab to
the next. To enter a selected tab, you must press the [ENTER] key. Once the tab has
been accessed, use the [ENTER] key to move from one setting to the next and the
arrow keys to adjust settings.
To exit the Display Setup menu, you should press [MEAS/RESET] or the [DISPLAY
SETUP] key.

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The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH XT menu at any time. This
key returns you to the live screen from any location within the instruments user
interface.

4.7.1

Color Tab

With the Color tab you can set the display brightness and choose the color scheme for
the instrument. There are four color-scheme choices:

Factory Use of full color display for an interesting outdoor presentation

EL Display Similar in appearance to electroluminescent displays

Outdoor White background with dark text to maximize visibility in sunlight as


shown above

Monochromatic Black, white, and grey monochromatic colors

When you select a color scheme, the instrument displays an example of the color
scheme within the tab.
It is important to note that the display brightness can greatly affect the instruments
battery life. The default brightness setting is 50 %.

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The gradient is a color fading option behind all parameters and text when viewing the
A-scan display. This can be turned on or off based on the your preferences.

Scan Palette settings are for use with the EPOCH XT B-scan option. Please see section
11.5 on page 185 regarding the B-scan software option for more information.

4.7.2

A-scan Tab

The A-Scan tab is used to modify the appearance of the EPOCH XTs A-scan to meet
application needs or your preferences.
The available settings are listed below:

Live A-Scan Display

Outline The live A-scan is drawn as a single line.

Filled The A-scan outline is filled in with the A-scans color (except in
RF mode). This helps to increase visibility in certain lighting conditions.

Envelope Display This setting affects the appearance of A-scans and Peak
Envelopes that are captured with the Peak Hold and Peak Memory functions.
Peak Hold captures a single reference A-scan, and the live A-scan is displayed

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in the foreground. Peak Memory tracks the highest peak on the live A-scan
and draws an envelope across the peak positions.

Outline Captured A-scans and Peak Envelopes are drawn as a single


line.

Filled Captured A-scans and Peak Envelopes are filled.

X-Axis Grid Mode The EPOCH XT has four display modes for the X-Axis
grid. These four settings are designed to provide you with a convenient
display mode for the application. The modes and examples are shown below:

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Grid Off No grid lines are displayed. 010 appear along the bottom of
the A-scan.

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Standard 10 equally spaced grid lines.

SoundPath 5 equally spaced grid lines with sound path values.

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Y-Axis Grid Mode The EPOCH XT always measures amplitude up to 110 %


full-screen height. You can choose to display the Y-Axis on the A-scan display
from 0100 % or from 0110 % FSH. Examples are shown below:

52

Leg Up to 4 grid lines showing sound path legs (half paths) based on
part thickness and angle.

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4.8

110 % Grid

Basement Break This feature modifies the appearance of the EPOCH XTs
A-scan in fullwave rectified mode. When Baseline Break is active, the
instrument locates all zero cross points in the RF waveform and forces the
fullwave rectified mode to display these zero cross points by pulling the
A-scan to the baseline. This feature helps you to see small defects that are
close to the back surface of the test piece, especially at large ranges.

Measurement Setup Menu


The EPOCH XT Measurement Setup menu allows you to choose how the EPOCH XT
takes and displays measurements. Use this menu to select which measurements to
display for the application, to choose how the gates perform their measurements, and
to set up special measurement features and options such as DAC/TVG and DGS/AVG.
There are three individual tabs in the Measurement Setup menu. When the menu is
accessed, the first tab (Meas) is highlighted. You must use the left and right arrow
keys to move from one tab to the next. To enter a selected tab, you must press the
[ENTER] key. Once the tab has been accessed, you can use the [ENTER] key to move
from one control group to the next, the up and down arrow keys to select parameters
within a control group, and the left and right arrow keys to adjust parameters values.
To exit the Measurement Setup menu, you should press the [MEAS SETUP] key.

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The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH XT menu at any time.
Pressing this key returns the display to the live screen from any location within the
instruments user interface.

4.8.1

EPOCH XT Measurements

The EPOCH XT can display up to five (5) measurements on the live screen. You have
the ability to choose which measurements to display in each of the five measurement
locations. The measurement locations are shown in the screen below.
Reading 1 Reading 2 Reading 3 Reading 4

Reading 1 Reading 2 Reading 3 Reading 4


Reading 5

If you choose to leave measurement location #5 OFF in the Measurement Setup menu,
then the instrument displays measurement #4 in large numerals. If measurement #5 is
turned ON, then location #4 is split in half horizontally to accommodate both
measurements. Measurement location #5 is typically used to display specialized
measurements for DAC/TVG, DGS/AVG, or AWS D1.1 defect sizing, but it can be
used for any measurement as needed.

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The EPOCH XT is capable of making several types of measurements using either


Gate 1 or Gate 2. The two gates are completely independent of each other unless you
choose to take an echo-to-echo measurement. The list of available measurements and
their icons from the live screen are shown in Table 4 on page 55.
Table 4 Measurements and icons
Measurement

Icon

Description

Gate 1 THICKNESS

Thickness in Gate 1. Not used with Angle.

Gate 2 THICKNESS

Thickness in Gate 2. Not used with Angle.

Gate 1 SOUNDPATH

Sound path (Angular) distance in Gate 1.

DISTANCE

Gate 2 SOUNDPATH

Sound path (Angular) distance in Gate 2.

DISTANCE

Gate 1 DEPTH TO

Depth to reflector in Gate 1. Used with Angle.

REFLECTOR

Gate 2 DEPTH TO

Depth to reflector in Gate 2. Used with Angle.

REFLECTOR

Gate 1 SURFACE
DISTANCE

Gate 2 SURFACE
DISTANCE

Gate 1 SURFACE DIST


X VALUE

Gate 2 SURFACE DIST


X VALUE

Gate 1 MINIMUM
DEPTH

Horizontal distance to reflector in Gate 1. Used


with Angle.
Horizontal distance to reflector in Gate 2. Used
with Angle.
Horizontal distance minus X-value (distance
from beam index point to front of wedge) in
Gate 1. Used with Angle.
Horizontal distance minus X-value (distance
from beam index point to front of wedge) in
Gate 2. Used with Angle.
Minimum Depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

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Table 4 Measurements and icons (continued)


Measurement

Gate 2 MINIMUM
DEPTH

Gate 1 MAXIMUM
DEPTH

Gate 2 MAXIMUM
DEPTH

Gate 1 CURRENT
AMPLITUDE

Gate 2 CURRENT
AMPLITUDE

Gate 1 MAX
AMPLITUDE

Gate 2 MAX
AMPLITUDE

Gate 1 MIN
AMPLITUDE

Gate 2 MIN
AMPLITUDE

56

Icon

Description
Minimum Depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.
Maximum Depth in Gate 1. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.
Maximum Depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.
Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays
as % of full-screen height (FSH).
Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays
as % of full-screen height (FSH).
Maximum Amplitude in Gate 1. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.
Maximum Amplitude in Gate 2. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.
Minimum Amplitude in Gate 1. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.
Minimum Amplitude in Gate 2. Resets on gate
adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments,
and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

Gate 1 AMP TO CURVE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays


echo height as a percentage of DAC/TVG
curve height.

Gate 2 AMP TO CURVE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays


echo height as a percentage of DAC/TVG
curve height.

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Table 4 Measurements and icons (continued)


Measurement

Description

Gate 1 DB TO CURVE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays


echo dB value compared to curve height where
the curve equals 0 dB.

Gate 2 DB TO CURVE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays


echo dB value compared to curve height where
the curve equals 0 dB.

Echo-to-Echo (Gate 2 -

Gate 2 thickness minus Gate 1 thickness


(echo-to-echo measurement).

Gate 1)

4.8.2

Icon

AWS D1.1/D1.5 WELD


RATING (D)

D rating calculated for the gated echo.

FLAT BOTTOM HOLE


SIZE (FBH)

Flat-bottom hole (FBH) size (equivalent


reflector size) for DGS/AVG evaluation.

OVERSHOOT (OS)

Overshoot value in dB comparing echo height


to DGS/AVG curve.

Meas Tab

The first control group in the Meas tab allows you to select the Auto or Manual
measurement selection. In the Auto selection, the relevant measurements are
automatically displayed based on the type of inspection and setup parameters (for
example, straight beam, angle beam, AWS, B-scan). When Auto measurement mode is
selected, you cannot access the second control group in the tab. When the Manual
measurement mode is selected, use the second control group in the tab to choose
which measurements to display and in which location to display them on the live
screen. This tab is shown below.

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The third control group in the Meas tab contains several settings that can affect the
measurements taken by the EPOCH XT. Descriptions of these settings are shown
below:

58

Unit Select from Inches, Millimeters, or Microseconds.

Amp Resolution You can select the number of decimal places to be displayed
for amplitude measurements. The EPOCH XT measures amplitude to 0.25 % FSH
(x.xx). You may change this to 0.5 % (x.x) or 1 % (x) if desired.

X Value This is the distance from the Beam Index Point on a wedge to the front
of the wedge. When using Gate 1 Surface Dist X Value or Gate 2 Surface Dist
X Value measurements, this number is the correction that is used for the
displayed measurement.

Outer Dia. User entered value for Curved Surface Correction calculations.

TH Resolution You can select the number of decimal places to be displayed for
thickness measurements (x, x.x, x.xx, x.xxx).

Calibration The EPOCH XT allows you to perform an angle beam calibration


using the Sound Path reflector or the Depth to a reflector as the known reference.

Curved Surface Correction (CSC) This is a standard feature on all EPOCH XT


instruments. This feature is used when inspecting with an angle beam transducer
on a surface that is curved in the direction of the sound path. This feature corrects
the horizontal distance and depth to reflector measurements based on part
thickness and outer diameter. This function currently works on the outer
diameter only.

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4.8.3

Trigger Choose between Internal, External, and Single. For most applications,
this setting should be left on Internal.

Gates Tab

The Gates tab allows you to set up measurement modes for Gate 1 and Gate 2. Gate 1
and Gate 2 can be used independently as required by you, or Gate 2 can track the echo
in Gate 1 allowing Gate 1 to act as an interface gate. The selections within the Gates
tab are detailed below:

Gate1 Measurement Mode and Gate2 Measurement Mode: The EPOCH XT


permits three different measurement modes for each gate. The three modes are
Peak, First Peak, and Edge (also known as FLANK). The following screens show
examples of the three modes:

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Peak Measurement

First Peak Measurement

Edge (Flank) Measurement

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Gate1 RF Setup and Gate2 RF Setup: When the EPOCH XT rectification is set to
RF, you have three choices for Gate Positioning: Positive, Negative, or Dual Gate.
In Positive mode, the gate appears above the baseline. In Negative mode, the gate
appears below the baseline. In Dual Gate mode, the gate is mirrored above and
below the baseline.

Gate1 % Amp Measurement and Gate2 % Amp Measurement: When the


measurement mode for either Gate1 or Gate2 is set to Edge, you can select First
Peak or Highest Peak measurement mode for the % Amplitude measurement.
(First Peak and Highest Peak modes are explained above.)

Gate2 Tracking: This is typically used for taking echo-to-echo thickness


measurements. You can set up Gate 1 and Gate 2 on the display with a specific
distance between Gate1 and Gate2 Start.

4.8.4

Options Tab

The Options tab allows you to set up software features and options such as
DAC/TVG, DGS/AVG, AWS D1.1/D1.5, B-scan, Floating Gate (FGate), and Advanced
Filters. Details regarding these software features/options are found in chapter 11 on
page 151 of this manual. The Options tab is shown in the screen as follows:

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5. Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver

This chapter describes how to adjust the EPOCH XTs Pulser/Receiver. The topics are
as follows:

Adjusting the System Sensitivity (Gain)

Using the AUTOXX% Feature

Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain

Pulser Adjustment

Receiver Adjustment

Custom Filter Sets

5.1

Adjusting the System Sensitivity (Gain)

To adjust the system sensitivity


1.

Press [GAIN].

2.

Use one of the three adjustment methods to adjust the gain setting:

Arrow Keys Up and down for coarse adjustment; left and right for fine
adjustment.

Function Keys Jump to preset values defined in the Editable Parameters tab
(EditPara).

Direct Entry Press the [ALPHA/NUM] key, enter the desired gain value on
the keypad, and then press [ENTER].

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The total system sensitivity is 110 dB.

5.2

Using the AUTOXX% Feature


The AUTOXX% feature was formerly known as the AUTO80 % feature in the
EPOCH 4 Series. The default setting for AUTOXX% in the EPOCH XT is 80 %
full-screen height (FSH). Using the EditPara feature described in section 4.6.2 on
page 44 in this manual, you can adjust the value to meet the application needed. In the
remainder of this section, AUTOXX% is described as AUTO80 % for simplicity.
The AUTO80 % feature is used to quickly adjust the instruments gain (dB) setting to
bring the gated peak echo to 80 % FSH. AUTO80 % is especially useful for bringing
the echo from a reference indication to 80 % FSH to establish the instruments
Reference Gain Level (see section 5.1 on page 63).
You can use the AUTO80 % feature to bring an echo to 80 % FSH in either Gate 1 or
Gate 2.

To use AUTO80 % with Gate 1


1.

Press the [GATES] key.

2.

Use the arrow keys or the direct entry method to position the gate over the
desired echo. It is not necessary for the echo to break the gate threshold.

3.

Press [F5]. The highest peak within the gate is brought to 80 % FSH automatically
by adjusting the instruments gain setting.

To use AUTO80 % with Gate 2

64

1.

Press the [GATES] key twice. This selects Gate 2.

2.

Use the arrow keys or the direct entry method to position the gate over the
desired echo. It is not necessary for the echo to break the gate threshold.

3.

Press [F5]. The highest peak within the gate is brought to 80 % FSH automatically
by adjusting the instruments gain setting.

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You can use AUTO80 % when an echo exceeds the desired amplitude. The echo can
be either above or below 80 % FSH. If a signal is very high in amplitude (above 500 %
FSH), it might be necessary to activate the AUTO80 % function more than once. To
do this, simply press the [F5] key again.

5.3

Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain


To establish the current system gain as the reference (base) level, press [2ND F], [GAIN]
(REF GAIN). This is useful for inspections that require the establishment of a
reference gain level and then the addition or subtraction of scanning gain.
After accessing the reference gain function, the gain display reads: REF XX.X + 0.0 dB.
You can now add or subtract scanning gain as needed, independent of the reference
level.
To add scanning gain, use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment (default
6.0 dB) and the left and right arrow keys for fine adjustment (default 0.1 dB).
While using the reference gain and scanning gain, the following functions are also
available:

5.4

[F1] (Add) key Adds the scanning gain to the reference gain and deactivates the
reference gain feature.

[F2] (Scan dB) key Toggles the scanning gain from the active level to 0.0 dB
(reference level) allowing a direct amplitude comparison to the reference
indication.

[F3] (Off) key Exits the reference gain function without adding the scanning
gain to the base instrument gain.

Pulser Adjustment
The pulser settings in the EPOCH XT are accessed by pressing the [PULSER] key on
the instrument keypad. Alternatively, you may press the [ENTER] key as needed to
reach the pulser parameter settings. The pulser setup parameters are:

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Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF)

Pulser frequency selection (pulse width)

Pulse energy

Damping

Pressing the pulser key multiple times accesses the functions listed above, in the same
order.

5.4.1

Pulse Repetition Frequency

Pulse repetition frequency (PRF) is a measure of how often the transducer is being
pulsed by the electronic circuitry in the EPOCH XT. PRF is typically adjusted based
on the test method or test piece geometry. For parts with long sound paths, it is
necessary to lower the PRF to avoid wrap-around interference that results in spurious
signals on the display. For applications with rapid scanning, it is often necessary to
use a high PRF rate in order to assure that small defects are detected as the probe
moves past the part.
The EPOCH XT allows you to adjust the PRF from 10 Hz to 1000 Hz in steps of either
10 Hz (fine adjustment with left and right arrow keys) or 50 Hz (coarse adjustment
with up and down arrow keys). You may also use the direct entry method to set the
PRF.
When the PRF setting is selected, you can press the [F1] (Optimum) key. The
instrument selects the optimal PRF for the instrument range (Rng) setting. This
optimum setting is for typical applications. It might be necessary for you to adjust
from this optimum setting for certain applications.

The EPOCH XT is a single-shot instrument. This means that the instrument


acquires, measures, and draws the complete A-scan with each pulse rather than using
multiple acquisitions to construct a full waveform. The measurement rate in the
EPOCH XT is always equal to the PRF rate unless you are using a multiplexer.

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5.4.2

Pulser Frequency Selection (Pulse Width)

Pulser Frequency Selection, which sets the Pulse Width, is applicable only when the
Pulser Square selection is active in the General tab of the [INSTR SETUP] menu. This
frequency selection is designed to tune the square wave pulser to obtain the best
performance from the transducer being used. In general, the best performance is
achieved by tuning the Pulser Frequency as close to the center frequency of the
transducer being used as possible.

Actual results can vary due to the test material and/or variation in the
transducer-center frequency. It is recommended trying various settings with a
transducer and test piece to maximize the ultrasonic performance.

5.4.3

Pulse Energy

You can adjust the pulse energy from 50 V to 475 V in increments of 25 V. Because of
this flexibility in adjustment, you only use the necessary level of energy to perform
the test while also providing a very high-power pulser for the most difficult materials.
To maximize instrument battery life and transducer life, it is recommended that you
use lower energy settings when the application permits it. For most applications, the
energy setting does not need to exceed 200 V.

5.4.4

Damping

The damping control lets you optimize the waveform shape for high resolution
measurements by using an internal resistive circuit. There are four damping settings:

50

63

150

400

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Generally, the lowest ohm setting increases the system damping and improves
near-surface resolution, while the highest ohm setting decreases system damping and
improves the instrument penetration power.
Selecting the correct damping setting fine tunes the EPOCH XT in order to operate
with a particular transducer selection. Depending on the transducer being used, the
various damping settings either improve near-surface resolution or improve the
instruments penetration power.

To select a damping option


1.

Press [PULSER] to access the damping parameter.

2.

Use the function keys for direct access, or the up and down keys to toggle through
the four available damping selections.

5.4.5

Test Mode

The EPOCH XT can operate in three test modes:


Pulse-Echo: Single element transducers are used, and can be connected to either
transducer connector.
Through: Two separate transducers are used, typically on opposite sides of the test
specimen. The right connector is marked T/R and is designated as the transmitter.
The left connector is marked R and is designated as the receiver.
Dual (Pitch and Catch): One Dual transducer containing two elements is used; one
element acts as a transmitter, the other as a receiver. The right connector is marked
T/R and is designated as the transmitter. The left connector is marked R and is
designated as the receiver.

To select a test mode

68

1.

Press [PULSER] to access the test mode parameter.

2.

Use the function keys for direct access, or the up and down keys to toggle through
the three selections.

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To compensate for the one-way sound path in Through mode, the EPOCH XT does
not divide transit time by two when calculating thickness measurements.

5.5

Receiver Adjustment
The receiver settings in the EPOCH XT are accessed by pressing the [RCVR] key on
the instrument keypad. Alternatively, you may press the [ENTER] key as needed to
reach the receiver parameter settings. The receiver setup parameters are:

Digital filters

Waveform rectification

Pressing the receiver key multiple times accesses the functions listed above in the
same order.

5.5.1

Digital Filters

The EPOCH XT has a total instrument bandwidth of 26.5 MHz at 3 dB. The
instrument has several broadband, narrow-band, and high-pass digital filter settings.
These settings provide the dynamic range (dB) required by EN12668-1 and also
improve the instruments signal-to-noise ratio by filtering out unwanted high and/or
low frequency noise outside of the test frequency spectrum.
The Digital Filter setting is accessed by pressing the [RCVR] key on the instrument
keypad. The available settings are:

2.0 MHz to 21.5 MHz (broadband 1)

0.2 MHz to 10.0 MHz (broadband 2)

0.2 MHz to 1.2 MHz

0.5 MHz to 4.0 MHz

1.5 MHz to 8.5 MHz

5.0 MHz to 15.0 MHz

8.0 MHz to 26.5 MHz (high-pass)

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In most cases, you should select either a broadband filter or a narrowband filter that
covers the frequency of the transducer being used. For example, with a 5 MHz
transducer you should use either one of the broadband settings or the 1.5 MHz to
8.5 MHz setting. Due to the shifting of the frequency spectrum in most materials, it
might be necessary to adjust the filter settings to maximize instrument performance.
Every material is different, therefore you must optimize the receiver settings based on
the application.
If the Advanced Filters option has been activated on the EPOCH XT, the additional
filter options appear in the list of filters. Please refer to chapter 11 on page 151 for
more information.

5.5.2

Waveform Rectification

The EPOCH XT can operate in one of four different rectification modes:

Full-wave

Half-wave positive

Half-wave negative

RF (unrectified)

The RF mode is not active while operating in DAC mode or when using the Peak
Memory feature.

To select a waveform rectification mode

5.6

1.

Press [RCVR] once to display the current screen rectification. This is highlighted
and displayed at the bottom of the screen.

2.

Use the function keys for direct access, or the up and down keys to toggle through
the different waveform rectification modes.

Custom Filter Sets


As discussed in section 4.6.2 on page 44 of this manual, the EPOCH XT is capable of
storing custom filter sets that are developed by Olympus at a customers request. For
more information, contact Olympus.

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6. Managing Special Waveform Functions

This chapter describes how to manage special waveform functions. The topics are as
follows:

Reject

Peak Memory

Peak Hold

Display Freeze

6.1

Reject
The Reject function eliminates unwanted, low-level signals from the display. The
Reject function is linear and adjustable from 0 % to 80 % FSH. Increasing the reject
level does not affect the amplitude of the signals above the reject level.

The REJECT function can be used in RF Display mode.

To access the REJECT function


1.

Press [2ND F], [VEL] (REJECT).

2.

Use the function keys, arrow keys, or the direct entry method to set the reject
level.

The reject level is displayed as a dashed horizontal line on the instrument display (or
two lines in the case of the RF Display mode) as shown in the screens below.

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REJECT 0 %

6.2

REJECT 15 %

Peak Memory
The Peak Memory function enables the display to capture and store, on the screen,
the amplitude of each display point. The display updates each pixel if a signal of
greater amplitude is acquired. When a transducer is scanned over a reflector, the
signal envelope (echo dynamic as a function of transducer position) is held on the
screen. In addition, the current, live waveform is displayed at the appropriate place
within the echo envelope.
This function is useful when it is necessary to find the peak from an indication during
an angle beam inspection.
An example is shown as follows:

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The [PEAK MEM] function cannot be activated in the unrectified, RF display mode.

To activate Peak Memory


1.

6.3

Press [PEAK MEM]. A P symbol appears at the right side of the display to
indicate that the function is active.

2.

Scan over a reflector to acquire the echo envelope.

3.

Press [PEAK MEM] again to turn off the peak memory function.

Peak Hold
The Peak Hold function is similar to Peak Memory in that it captures the current
screen that is displayed on the EPOCH XT when the function is accessed. The
difference is that with Peak Hold, the captured waveform is frozen on the screen and
does not update even if the live waveform exceeds the frozen waveforms amplitude.
Peak Hold is useful when you want to obtain a waveform from a known sample and
compare it to a waveform from an unknown test piece. Similarities and/or differences
in the waveforms can be noted to help determine the unknown materials
acceptability status.
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To activate Peak Hold


1.

Obtain an echo on the EPOCH XT screen that you want to capture.

2.

Press [2ND F], [PEAK MEM] (PEAK HOLD). This captures the screen and still
allows to view the live waveform. A PH appears on the right side of the A-scan
display indicating that the function is active.

3.

Select the captured waveform to view as a single trace by pressing [F1], or as a


filled-in trace by pressing [F2].

4.

Press [2ND F], [PEAK MEM] (PEAK HOLD) again to shut off the Peak Hold
function.

6.4

Display Freeze
The Display Freeze function holds or freezes the information on the screen at the
moment the [FREEZE] key is pressed. Once Freeze is activated, the pulser/receiver of
the EPOCH XT becomes inactive and does not acquire any further data. An F symbol
appears on the right side of the screen indicating that the function is active.
This function is useful when storing waveforms as it holds the current A-scan
allowing the transducer to be removed from the test piece. Once the display is frozen,
you can use a variety of instrument functions.
These include:

Gate Movement Used to position the gate(s) over area(s) of interest to obtain
measurement data.

Gain Used to amplify signals of interest or to reduce the amplitude of signals


when high scanning gain values are being used.

Range, Delay, and Zoom The EPOCH XT time base can be manipulated to focus
on areas of interest. The total instrument range can not be increased.

Data logger

Printing

When Freeze is active, the following parameters cannot be accessed/changed:

Zero (Offset)

Range (cannot be increased)

Pulser/Receiver settings other than Gain

To disable Freeze and return to normal operation, press [FREEZE] again.

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7. Gates

This chapter describes how to use the gates in the EPOCH XT. The topics covered are
as follows:

7.1

Positioning Gates 1 and 2

Gate Measurement Modes

Taking Thickness Readings

Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings

Locating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer

Measuring Signal Amplitude

Operating in Time-of-Flight Mode

Using the Zoom Feature

Gate Alarms

Positioning Gates 1 and 2


The EPOCH XT has two independent flaw gates. Both gates can be used to take
thickness measurements with straight beam transducers, sound path measurements
with angle beam transducers, measure signal amplitude, measure time-of-flight in
microseconds, or to trigger threshold and minimum-depth alarms. The gates can also
be used together to take echo-to-echo thickness measurements.
Gate Positioning is controlled using the [GATES] key.
To access the Gate 1 controls, press [GATES] once. You can then use the [ENTER] key
or the [F1]-[F3] keys to access Gate Start (G1St), Gate Width (Wd), and Gate Level
(Lv). The [F5] key controls the AUTOXX% function discussed in section 5.2 on
page 64 of this manual.

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To access the Gate 2 controls, press the [GATES] button twice. If Gate 2 is not turned
on, you can press the [F4] key to turn it on and then use the [ENTER] key or the [F1]
[F3] keys to access Gate Start (G2St), Gate Width (Wd), and Gate Level (Lv). The [F5]
key controls the AUTOXX % function discussed in section 5.2 on page 64 of this
manual.
To adjust the position of a gate, you must access the appropriate gate function and use
the arrow keys or the direct-entry method to move the gates. The up and down arrow
keys are used for a rapid adjustment in coarse increments and the left and right arrow
keys are for a fine adjustment.

7.2

Gate Measurement Modes


See section 4.4.3 on page 39 in this manual for details regarding the three
gate-measurement modes available for each gate (Peak, First Peak, and Edge).

7.3

Taking Thickness Readings

To take a thickness reading with Gate 1


1.

In [MEAS SETUP] > Meas tab Select Gate 1 Thickness as one of the active
measurements in the 5 measurement display locations. Typically, this would be
displayed in measurement location 4, and location 5 would be turned off.

2.

In [MEAS SETUP] > Gates tab Set up the Gate 1 Measurement mode to Peak,
First Peak, or Edge as required by the application.

3.

On the live screen Position Gate 1 over the echo of interest. The echo does not
need to break the gate for Peak measurements. It must break the gate for First
Peak or Edge measurements.

To take a thickness reading with Gate 2, the previous steps are the same but the Gate 2
controls are used and the Gate 2 Thickness Measurement must be selected.

7.4

Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings


You can take echo-to-echo thickness measurements with the EPOCH XT whenever it
is required for an application. This is a standard feature in the EPOCH XT.

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To take an echo-to-echo thickness measurement


1.

In [MEAS SETUP] > Meas tab Select Gate 2-1 as one of the active measurements
in the 5 measurement display locations. Typically this is displayed in
measurement location 4, and location 5 is turned off.

2.

In [MEAS SETUP] > Gates tab Set up Gate 1 and Gate 2 measurement modes to
Peak, First Peak, or Edge as required by the application. These modes are
typically the same for both gates, but not required.

3.

On the live screen Position Gate 1 over the first echo of interest and Gate 2 over
the second echo of interest. The echo does not need to break the gate for the peak
measurements. It must break, however, the gate for First Peak or Edge
measurements.

You can choose to activate Gate 2 Tracking in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Gates tab.
As discussed in section 4.4.3 on page 39 of this manual, this function allows Gate 2
Start to track the position of an echo in Gate 1 in order to maintain the preset blanking
period between Gate 1 Start and Gate 2 Start.

7.5

Locating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer


During an angle beam inspection, you can obtain accurate and reliable sound path
information using the EPOCH XTs high-resolution distance calculator.
If a refracted angle is entered into the EPOCH XT and you have chosen Sound path,
Surface Distance, and Depth measurements to be displayed in the measurement
display locations (or put the measurement mode in Auto), then the instrument
automatically displays all angular sound path components once you place the gate
over the echo of interest (see following screen).

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Amplitude

Depth

Surface distance

Sound path

Leg indicator

The sound path leg indicator is displayed in the lower-right corner of the instrument
display. It is created using the following information in this order: gate number (1),
L (which stands for leg), and the sound path leg (2). Examples: 1L2 means Gate 1
Leg 2, 2L2 means Gate 2 Leg 2. In order to properly display the sound path leg and
the depth to reflector, you must enter the proper part thickness. This is accomplished
by pressing [2ND F], [ANGLE] (THICK) and entering the value.
The screen also displays the sound path leg as part of the A-scan grid. This is set up in
the [DISPLAY SETUP] menu > Ascan tab as detailed in section 4.7.2 on page 49 of
this manual.

7.6

Measuring Signal Amplitude


When estimating the discontinuity size, the instrument is adjusted so that a particular
gain setting and screen height represent the echo amplitude produced by a known
size reflector in a reference standard. In general, a signal with a smaller amplitude can
indicate a smaller reflector and a signal with higher amplitude can indicate a larger
reflector than the reference standard.

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To measure the signal amplitude, you must select either Gate 1 Current Amplitude or
Gate 2 Current Amplitude as a displayed measurement in the [MEAS SETUP] menu
> Meas tab depending on which gate is to be used for the measurement.
The EPOCH XT can also display Min amplitude and Max amplitude measurements
for each gate. If you wish to use these measurements for inspection, they can be
activated as well. These measurements track the minimum and maximum
measurements in the gate and are reset by adjusting the gate, gain, pulser/receiver, or
by pressing the [MEAS/RESET] key.
The Gate Measurement Mode affects how the EPOCH XT measures signal amplitude:

Peak mode:

Amplitude measurement is made on highest peak in gate.

Signal does not have to break gate threshold.

First Peak mode:

Amplitude measurement from first peak in gate

Signal must break gate threshold.

Edge mode:

Amplitude measurement from highest peak in gate

Signal must break gate threshold.

Once you have set up the displayed measurements and the gate measurement modes,
you need to position the gate over the echo of interest. The echo-amplitude
measurement(s) is then displayed. The following screen shows some amplitude
measurements along with a part thickness to reflector measurement (defect depth).

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Current
amplitude

7.7

Max
amplitude

Min
amplitude

Thickness

Operating in Time-of-Flight Mode


The EPOCH XT is capable of displaying time-of-flight (TOF) sound path data for an
echo that breaks Gate 1 or Gate 2. Time-of-flight is the location of the reflector in
terms of microseconds (s).
When the time-of-flight mode is activated by going to the [MEAS SETUP] menu >
Meas tab > Unit = s, all distance measurements in the EPOCH XT are displayed in
microsecond values instead of inches or millimeters.
Time-of-flight mode does not divide the reading by two. The entire time-of-flight
through the test piece in both directions, is displayed.
As a reminder, when taking thickness measurements, the EPOCH XT must divide the
product of material velocity and time-of-flight by two in order to calculate the
thickness of the part. If this is not done, then the unit would display twice the actual
thickness because the sound energy passes through the part twice.

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7.8

Using the Zoom Feature


To zoom in on an indication, position Gate 1 over the area of interest and press [2ND F],
[RANGE] (ZOOM). The instrument automatically uses screen delay to bring the
point that corresponds to the gate start to the left side of the screen and also adjusts
the displayed range to match the gate width. The new range equals the unzoomed
gate width. The lowest achievable value of the expanded range is equivalent to the
minimum range of the instrument at the current material-velocity setting.
Zoom is especially useful in certain flaw detection applications. For example, when
detecting branches of cracking such as intergranular stress-corrosion cracking
(IGSCC), your job can be complicated by the geometry of the test specimen and also
by the specific characteristics of the defect itself. In instances where the pipe
counterbore is close to the weld root, it is possible to have three signals that all appear
quite close to each other (the weld root, the counterbore, and the crack itself). Use the
Zoom function to improve the visual resolution of the EPOCH XT display so that each
individual signal can be more easily identified.
When evaluating a crack signal, your attention is usually focused on the leading edge
of an indication. By observing the number and location of small peaks along the
leading edge of the signal, it is possible to make some assumptions regarding the
presence and location of different branches of cracking. Use the Zoom function to get
a much more detailed view of an indication and to make better judgements regarding
flaw location and depth.
Zoom is useful when inspecting particularly large or thick components when detail is
lost due to using long-screen ranges. Use the Zoom function to look at small sections
of the test piece without disturbing the instruments original calibration.

7.9

Gate Alarms
The EPOCH XT features a variety of alarm configurations for Gate 1 and Gate 2. In RF
mode, these alarms can be used in Positive, Negative, or Dual Gate modes. The three
types of gate alarms are Positive Threshold, Negative Threshold, and Minimum
Depth.

7.9.1

Threshold Alarms

Threshold alarms can be set on Gate 1 and/or Gate 2.

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To set a threshold alarm on Gate 1


1.

Press the [GATES] key and use the Start, Width, and Level parameters to
position the gate over the desired area.

2.

Press [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS). The alarm options are now displayed above
the function keys.

3.

Press [F2] for positive logic or [F3] for negative logic. A positive logic alarm is
triggered when a signal breaks the gate threshold. A negative logic alarm is
triggered when a signal drops out of the gate threshold. Gate 1 and Gate 2 can
both be set to either positive or negative logic.

When you set a threshold alarm on Gate 1 or Gate 2, the appearance of the tick marks
at the end of the gate change. For positive logic alarms, the tick marks point upward
and for negative logic alarms they point downward.
To setup a threshold alarm on Gate 2, you must follow the steps above with the
exception of pressing [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS) twice to access Gate 2 alarms.
To deactivate an alarm, access the gate alarm control and press [F1].

7.9.2

Minimum-Depth Alarm

The EPOCH XT is equipped with a minimum-depth alarm that is triggered whenever


the current thickness reading falls below an operator-defined level. The minimum
depth alarm can be used either with a single gate or with two gates in Echo-to-Echo
Measurement mode.

7.9.3

Minimum Depth Alarm with a Single Gate

Minimum depth alarms can be set on either Gate 1 or Gate 2.

To set a minimum depth alarm on Gate 1

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1.

Press the [GATES] key and use the Start, Width, and Level parameters to
position the gate over the desired area. Ensure that the Gate Start position is set to
cover a range below the minimum-depth alarm value.

2.

Press [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS) to display the alarms in the function boxes at
the bottom of the screen. Press [F4] to activate the minimum-depth alarm.

3.

Use the arrow keys to set the desired minimum value. The range of
minimum-depth values is limited by the Gate Start and Gate Width settings. This
minimum-depth alarm value must be greater than the Gate Start value and less

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than the Gate Width value. Once activated, a marker appears on the gate to
indicate the current setting. Any indication that exceeds the gate threshold to the
left of the marker triggers the alarm.
4.

7.9.4

Press [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS) followed by the [F1] key to turn off the alarm.

Minimum-Depth Alarm with Gate 2 Tracking

You can use the minimum-depth alarm when making echo-to-echo thickness
measurements with Gate 2 tracking as well. Whenever Gate 2 tracking is active
(located in [MEAS SETUP] menu > GATES tab) all Gate 2 settings (Start, Width,
Depth, and Min Depth Alarm Threshold) are relative to the position of the echo in
Gate 1. Gate 2 moves side-to-side, tracking the position of an echo in Gate 1. When
you set up a minimum-depth alarm on Gate 2 with Gate 2 tracking activated, the
value for the alarm threshold is the distance from Gate 1 Start or the distance from the
echo being measured by Gate 1.

To setup a minimum depth alarm on Gate 2


1.

Press the [GATES] key twice and use the Start, Width, and Level parameters to
position Gate 2 over the desired area. Ensure that the Gate 2 Start position is set to
cover a range below the minimum-depth alarm value.

2.

Press [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS) twice to display the Gate 2 alarms in the
function boxes at the bottom of the screen. Press [F4] to activate the
minimum-depth alarm.

3.

Use the arrow keys to set the desired minimum value. The range of
minimum-depth values is limited by the Gate 2 Start and Gate 2 Width settings.
This minimum-depth alarm value must be greater than the Gate 2 Start value and
less than the Gate 2 Width value. Once activated, a marker appears on the gate to
indicate the current setting. Any indication that exceeds the gate threshold to the
left of the marker triggers the alarm.

4.

Press [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS) twice followed by the [F1] key to turn off the
alarm.

7.9.5

Alarm-Condition Storage

When an alarm is active on a gate, the gate indicator flashes between the
measurement mode icon and a red A symbol. Alarm conditions are stored in the
EPOCH XT data logger. All saved IDs with an active alarm display A1 for Gate 1
alarm and/or A2 for Gate 2 alarm.

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8. Input and Output Features

This chapter describes the input and output features of the EPOCH XT. The topics
covered are as follows:

VGA Output

Analog Output

Trigger Input and Output

8.1

VGA Output
The VGA output on the EPOCH XT lets you view the full color-screen display on a
PC monitor, projector, or a heads-up display. As of October 2008, all EPOCH XTs are
shipped standard with a VGA output port under the side office door of the
instrument. Connect the EPOCH XT to the external device with a cable attached to the
VGA port inside the door on the right side of the unit.
The default setting for the VGA output is OFF.

To turn on the VGA output


1.

Press [DISPLAY SETUP] to enter the Display Setup menu.

2.

Scroll to the VGA tab and press [ENTER].

3.

Press [F2] (On) to turn VGA output on.

4.

Scroll down and press [F2] (On) to have the EPOCH XT automatically turn on in
VGA output mode. If this parameter is set to [F1] (Off) the unit turns on in
normal mode.

To connect the EPOCH XT to a standard projector, monitor, or other VGA-compatible


device, a new cable is available: EPXT-C-VGA-6.

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The EPOCH XT consumes a slightly greater amount of power when the VGA circuitry
is turned on, reducing battery operating time.

8.2

Analog Output
The EPOCH XT offers an optional analog output. This analog output option is a
hardware option, and allows the EPOCH XT to continuously output depth or
amplitude information to an external device, such as a strip chart recorder or a PC
outfitted with an Analog/Digital converter card. The information is outputted as a
voltage, either on a 01 V or 010 V scale. The EPOCH XT is connected to the external
device by means of the analog output LEMO 00 connector on the right side of the
instrument.

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The Analog Output option is only available for EPOCH XT units manufactured after
October 2008.
Instruments requiring the addition of the analog output must be returned to an
authorized Olympus service center for hardware upgrade. Contact your local
Olympus sales representative for more details.

To access the Analog Output setup tab:

Press the [MEAS SETUP] key

Use the arrow keys to highlight the A-Out tab

Press [ENTER] to enter the Analog Output setup menu

Figure 8-1 Analog Output Configuration

In this menu, you can select the following:

Reading - The measurement (time of flight/thickness or amplitude) being


represented and output through Analog Out

Output Voltage - The range of voltage output from the unit (0 V1 V or 0 V10 V)

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Mapping - The scale of the output. You can select to output representative voltage
based on either Full Screen Range or Gate Width

Device Load - The value of the impedance of the peripheral device measuring the
analog output of the EPOCH XT.

Matching the impedance of the output from the EPOCH XT with the impedance of
the input to the peripheral device allows the EPOCH XT to properly offset the analog
output to produce predictable output voltages based on screen measurements. For
example, a measurement on the EPOCH XT of 10 mm on a 100 mm screen range, with
an analog output range of 0 V to 10 V, should produce an analog output of 1 V.
Without impedance matching, the value can be skewed above or below the expected
1 V output value (0.95 V or 1.02 V, etc).

8.3

Trigger Input and Output


The EPOCH XT offers trigger syncing capabilities to allow the instrument to be used
in conjunction with other devices/instruments in a system. This triggering capability
governs the timing of each instrument pulse based on the selected method and, where
applicable, external input. The EPOCH XT trigger input and output signals are
accessed using the optional hardware Input/Output (I/O) port on the top of the unit
(see section 2.2 on page 18 for more information).

To select a Trigger mode

88

1.

Press the [MEAS SETUP] key.

2.

Press [ENTER] to enter the Meas tab.

3.

Press [ENTER] until the cursor is selected on the third control group in the tab.

4.

Use the down arrow to select the Trigger parameter.

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Figure 8-2 Trigger selection

The Trigger parameter has three selections:

Internal Standard operational mode. This selection allows the instrument to


control the pulse timing and frequency internally, and is not affected by external
input. While in the Internal mode, the EPOCH XT outputs a synchronization
pulse, allowing the instrument to trigger other devices at the same rate and
timing as the EPOCH XT is sending a pulse to the connected transducer(s).

External This selection allows an external device to control the pulse timing and
frequency of the EPOCH XT using the optional hardware I/O port on the top of
the unit. When no input pulse is provided, the instrument does not send any
pulse to the connected transducer(s) and appears frozen.

Single This selection allows the instrument pulse timing and frequency to be
manually controlled by the user or by PC commands. When in Single mode, the
instrument does not send a pulse to the connected transducer(s) until the
[MEAS|RESET] key is pressed (directly or by a remote method). If the
[MEAS|RESET] key is not pressed, the instrument appears frozen.

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9. Calibrating the EPOCH XT

This chapter describes how to calibrate the EPOCH XT. Calibration is the process of
adjusting the unit so that it measures accurately on a particular material, using a
particular transducer at a particular temperature. You must adjust the Zero (Offset)
and Velocity parameters of the EPOCH XT during calibration. Zero (Offset)
(sometimes referred to as probe delay) compensates for the dead time between the
firing of the main bang and the entry of the sound into the test piece. The unit must be
programmed with the correct Velocity setting so that it matches the material velocity
of the test piece.
The EPOCH XT has an advanced Auto Calibration feature, which enables a fast and
easy calibration process. The following section details the procedure to calibrate the
EPOCH XT when using the four basic transducer configurations: straight beam, delay
line, dual element, and angle beam.

Do not use the Auto Calibration feature when the EPOCH XT is in the following
modes: Microsecond time-of-flight, DAC, or TVG.

Calibration is explained in detail in following sections:

Getting Started

Calibrating with a Straight Beam Transducer

Calibration with a Delay Line Transducer

Calibration with a Dual Element Transducer

Calibrating with an Angle Beam Transducer

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9.1

Getting Started
Until you are completely comfortable operating the EPOCH XT, we recommend that a
basic review and setup procedure be performed prior to starting the actual
calibration. The split-screen feature of the EPOCH XT is useful for this as it lets you
simultaneously view the waveform display and all instrument calibration data.

To set up the EPOCH XT before calibrating

92

1.

Press [2ND F], [DISPLAY SETUP] (FULL/SPLIT) to select the split-screen display.

2.

Press [2ND F], [VEL] (REJECT) to set the reject level to 0 %. Press [F1] or use the
slewing keys to adjust the value to zero.

3.

Press [GAIN] to select an initial gain value that is appropriate for the calibration
and adjust the value by using the direct access function keys or the slewing keys.
If the appropriate gain level is unknown, set the initial gain at 20 dB and adjust it
as necessary during calibration.

4.

Press [VEL] to enter an approximate velocity for the test material and adjust the
value with the function keys or the slewing keys. If the velocity value is unknown,
find a value for the material being tested in Appendix B on page 213 of this
manual.

5.

Press [RANGE] to set the range and then adjust the value using the function keys
or the slewing keys. It is important to ensure that the range is large enough to
show both the thin and the thick sound path values on the screen.

6.

Press [2ND F], [ANGLE] (THICK) to set the material thickness to 0.00 in. or
0.00 mm. Press [F1] or use the slewing keys to adjust the value to zero.

7.

Press [ZERO] to set the zero offset value to 0.00 sec. Press [F1] or use the slewing
keys to bring the initial pulse to the left side of the instrument screen.

8.

Press [ANGLE] to enter the correct refracted angle for the probe (0 for a straight
beam or 90 probe, 45 for a 45 probe, etc.) Use the function keys to access preset
values or adjust in 0.1 adjustments using the slewing keys.

9.

Once the transducer is coupled to the block, adjust the pulser and filter settings to
create a clean A-scan. Press [PULSER] multiple times to permit access to the
various pulser functions. Press [RCVR] to go directly to the filter settings. Adjust
each function with the function keys or the slewing keys.

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Refer to section 5.4 on page 65 and section 5.5 on page 69 in this manual for
information on adjusting the Pulser Receiver.

9.2

Calibrating with a Straight Beam Transducer


Use Olympus transducer (part number A109S-RM), with a frequency of 5.0 MHz and
an element diameter of 0.50 in. (12.7 mm) to perform the sample straight beam
calibration. The calibration requires a test block with two known thicknesses made
from the material being measured. Ideally, the two thicknesses should represent
thicknesses that are both below and above the expected thickness of the material
being inspected.
For this example, we are using Olympus standard 5-step steel test block (part
number 2214E). The steps measure 0.100 in., 0.200 in., 0.300 in., 0.400 in., and 0.500 in.

If the EPOCH XT is set to metric units, the calibration process is exactly the same,
except that the entries below are in millimeters rather than inches.

To calibrate using a Straight-Beam transducer


1.

Follow the initial setup procedure outlined above. Connect the transducer to an
appropriate cable and then connect the cable to either of the transducer posts on
the EPOCH XT.

2.

Press [CAL]. A calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying
the EPOCH XT is in the Auto Calibration mode. To exit the Auto Calibration
mode at any point, press [CAL] again.

3.

Couple the transducer to the THIN calibration block step. For this example, the
transducer is coupled to the 0.200 in. step (depending on the frequency of the
contact transducer being used, it might be impossible to obtain a proper reading
on very thin material).

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4.

Position Gate 1 so that the first back-wall echo from the known thickness step is
exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is
at approximately 80 %.

Figure 9-1 Calibrating for a thin block using a straight beam transducer

5.

94

A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan. Once a steady reading
is achieved, press [ZERO]. The screen freezes and a pop-up box appears on the
screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the
test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [2] [0] [0], or [.] [2]. The entry appears in
the pop-up box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO|DELETE] key
multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness. Press [F1] to
continue.

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Figure 9-2 Entering a thin standard value

6.

Couple the transducer to the THICK calibration block step. In this example, the
transducer is coupled to the 0.500 in. step.

7.

Position Gate 1 so that the first back-wall echo from the known thickness step is
exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is
approximately 80 %.

Figure 9-3 Calibrating for a thick block using a straight beam transducer
Calibrating the EPOCH XT

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8.

A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan. Once a steady reading
is achieved, press [CAL], then [VEL]. The screen freezes and a pop-up box
appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact
known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.][5] [0] [0], or [.]
[5]. The entry appears in the pop-up box. If you enter an incorrect number, press
the [ZERO|DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the
correct thickness.

Figure 9-4 Entering a thick standard value

9.

Press [F2] to calculate and complete the calibration. The Zero (Offset) and
Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct thickness reading of any
gated echo displays on the screen. Note that the range might have changed
slightly due to the change in velocity during the calibration.

It is possible to use the Auto Calibration feature on a single test block of known
thickness. You can use multiple back-wall echoes instead of coupling on both a thin
step and a thick step. You can leave the transducer coupled on the thin step, move the
gate over to one of the multiple back-wall echoes, and enter the correct sound path
thickness (2, 3, 4, etc. multiple of the first back-wall echo) during the velocity portion
of the calibration.

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9.3

Calibration with a Delay Line Transducer


The sample delay line calibration described below is performed using Olympus
transducer part number V202-RM, with a frequency of 10.0 MHz and an element
diameter of 0.25 in. (6 mm). The calibration requires a test block with two known
thicknesses, made from the material being measured.
Ideally, the two thickness measurements are both below and above the expected
thickness of the material being inspected.
For this example, we are using Olympus standard 5-step steel-test block, part number
2214E. The steps measure 0.100 in., 0.200 in., 0.300 in., 0.400 in., and 0.500 in.

If the EPOCH XT is set to work in metric units, the calibration process is exactly the
same, except that the entries below are in millimeters, rather than inches.

To calibrate using a Delay Line Transducer


1.

Follow the initial setup procedure outlined in section 9.1 on page 92. Connect the
transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to the transducer
post on the EPOCH XT. With a zero offset of 0.000 s, the main bang (or excitation
pulse) should appear on the left side of the screen. Increase the zero offset until
the main bang moves off the left side of the screen and the interface echo from the
end of the delay line tip appears on the screen. Verify that the echo represents the
end of the delay by tapping a finger on the end of the couplant-coated delay line.
This dampens the signal and the echo should jump up and down on the screen.
Use the zero offset to move this echo to the left side of the screen so that it is
barely visible.

2.

Press [CAL]. A calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying
that the EPOCH XT is in the Auto Calibration mode. To exit the Auto Calibration
mode at any point, press [CAL] again.

3.

Couple the transducer to the THIN calibration block step. For this example, the
transducer is coupled to the 0.100 in. step.

4.

Position Gate 1 so that the first back-wall echo from the known thickness step
exceeds the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is
approximately 80 %. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

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Ensure that it is the first back-wall echo being gated, not a multiple echo from the end
of the delay line tip.

Figure 9-5 Calibrating for a thin block using a delay line transducer

5.

98

Press [ZERO] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a pop-up box
appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known
thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [1] [0] [0]. The entry
appears in the pop-up box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the
[ZERO|DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct
thickness.

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Figure 9-6 Entering a thin standard value

6.

Press [F1] to Continue.

7.

The display returns to the live A-scan. Couple the transducer to the THICK
calibration block step. For this example, the transducer is coupled to the 0.500 in.
step.

8.

Position Gate 1 so that the first back-wall echo from the known thickness step
exceeds the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is
approximately 80 %. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

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Figure 9-7 Calibrating for a thick block using a delay line transducer

9.

100

Press [CAL], then [VEL] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a
pop-up box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter
the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [5] [0]
[0]. The entry appears in the pop-up box. If you enter an incorrect number, press
the [ZERO|DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the
correct thickness.

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Figure 9-8 Entering a thick standard value

10. Press [F2] to calculate and complete the Auto Calibration. The Zero (offset) and
Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct thickness reading of any
gated echo is displayed on the screen. Note that the range might have changed
slightly due to the change in velocity during the calibration.

It is possible to use Auto Calibration on a single test block of known thickness. You
can use multiple back-wall echoes instead of coupling on both a thin step and a thick
step. You can leave the transducer-coupled on the thin step, and instead move the gate
over to one of the multiple back-wall echoes and then enter the correct sound path
thickness (2, 3, 4, etc. multiple of the first back-wall echo) during the velocity portion
of the calibration.

9.4

Calibration with a Dual Element Transducer


The sample dual element calibration described below is performed using Olympus
transducer (part number DHC711-RM) with a frequency of 5.0 MHz and an element
diameter of 0.25 in. (6 mm). The calibration requires a test block with two known
thicknesses made from the material being measured. Ideally, the two thicknesses
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should represent thicknesses that are both below and above the expected thickness of
the material to be inspected. For this example, we are using Olympus standard 5-step
steel test block, part number 2214E. It has steps measuring 0.100 in., 0.200 in.,
0.300 in., 0.400 in., and 0.500 in.

If the EPOCH XT is set to work in metric units, the calibration process is exactly the
same, except that the entries below are in millimeters, rather than inches.

Due to the acoustic characteristics of dual transducers, a nonlinearity in the distance


calibration occurs as the thickness of the material decreases. The point of maximum
sensitivity is determined by the roof angle of the particular dual transducer. We
recommend that the distance calibration is carried out using a step block that covers
the range of interest. Be careful when interpreting thickness readings made outside
the calibrated range. The EPOCH XT does not have V-Path Correction; therefore,
there might be some nonlinearity within the calibrated range depending on the
minimum thickness used in the calibration process.

The zero offset value of dual element transducers can vary significantly at extreme
temperatures. If the temperature changes more than a few degrees from the
temperature at which the zero offset value was established, recheck its value. If
thickness measurements are to be made over a wide temperature range, we strongly
recommend the use of Olympus dual transducers that are designed for
high-temperature applications and that have built-in delay lines with a stable sound
velocity that does not change significantly with temperature. Specific
recommendations are Olympus D790-SM and D791 dual element transducers.

To calibrate using a Dual Element transducer


1.

102

Follow the initial setup procedure outlined in section 9.1 on page 92. Connect the
transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to the transducer
posts on the EPOCH XT. Change the test mode to Dual. Also, when using a dual
element transducer, the Gain setting is generally set very high so that the leading
edge of the back wall echoes appear as nearly vertical lines on the screen. The
leading edge is then used when making thickness measurements. For this reason,

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the EPOCH XT should be set to Edge Detection mode (in the Gates tab under the
MEAS SETUP menu).
2.

Press [CAL]. A Calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying
that the EPOCH XT is in the Auto Calibration mode. To exit the Auto Calibration
mode at any point, press [CAL] again.

3.

Couple the transducer to the THIN calibration block step. For this example, the
transducer is coupled to the 0.100 in. step. As noted above, a higher Gain setting
is required to produce a clean leading edge of the signal. Do not be concerned
with the jagged peaks of the echo. Concentrate on the leading edge only.

4.

Position Gate 1 so that the leading edge of the back-wall echo from the known
thickness step exceeds the gate threshold. A thickness reading appears in large
text above the A-scan.

Figure 9-9 Calibrating for a thin block using a dual element transducer

5.

Press [ZERO] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a dialog box
appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known
thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [1] [0] [0]. The entry
appears in the dialog box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the
[ZERO|DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct
thickness.

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Figure 9-10 Entering a thin standard value

104

6.

Press [F1] to continue.

7.

The display returns to the live A-scan. Couple the transducer to the THICK
calibration block step. For this example, the transducer is coupled to the 0.500 in.
step.

8.

Position Gate 1 so that the leading edge of the back-wall echo from the known
thickness step exceeds the gate threshold. A thickness reading appears in large
text above the A-scan.

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Figure 9-11 Calibrating for a thick block using a dual element transducer

9.

Press [CAL], then [VEL] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a
pop-up box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter
the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [5] [0]
[0]. The entry appears in the pop-up box. If you enter an incorrect number, press
the [ZERO|DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the
correct thickness.

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Figure 9-12 Entering a thick standard value

10. Press [F2] (Calculate) to complete the Auto Calibration. The Zero (Offset) and
Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct thickness reading of any
gated echo is displayed on the screen. Note that the range might have changed
slightly due to the change in velocity during the calibration.

9.5

Calibrating with an Angle Beam Transducer


The sample angle beam calibration described below is performed using Olympus
transducer part number A430S-SB with a frequency of 2.25 MHz and an element
diameter of 0.625 in. 0.625 in. The transducer is mounted on a 45 wedge, part
number ABWS-6-45. We recommend using either an ASTM E-164 IIW Type I or a U.S.
Air Force IIW Type II calibration block for this calibration procedure. The steps below
use Olympus IIW Type I carbon-steel calibration block, part number TB7541-1.

To calibrate using an angle beam transducer

106

1.

Follow the initial setup procedure outlined in section 9.1 on page 92. Connect the
transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to the transducer
post on the EPOCH XT.

2.

Enter the correct refracted angle for the transducer/wedge combination. For this
example, enter 45.

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3.

Enter the approximate shear wave velocity of the material being inspected. For
this example using carbon steel, enter a velocity of 0.1280 in./s (3,251 mm/s if
working in metric units).

4.

Enter an appropriate range for the test block being used. For this example, enter a
range of 10.00 in. (250.00 mm if working in metric units).

Review sections 9.5.1 on page 107 to 9.5.4 on page 114 for the following procedures:

Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP)

Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta)

Calibrating for Distance

Calibrating for Sensitivity

If the EPOCH XT is set to work in metric units in each procedure listed above, the
calibration process is exactly the same, except that the entries are in millimeters,
rather than inches.

9.5.1

Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP)

To locate the BIP


1.

Couple the probe to the test block at the 0 mark.

IIW TYPE 1
Reference Block

Figure 9-13 Reference block displaying the 0 mark

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2.

Manipulate the probe until a high-amplitude signal appears on the screen after
the main bang. This is the reflection from the large arc of the block that is located
on the Type I block at 4 in. (101 mm).

3.

Move the probe forward and backwards to bring the echo to its maximum
amplitude (peak). Ensure that the echoes do not exceed 100 %. Reduce the Gain
setting if necessary.

The Peak Memory feature on the EPOCH XT is an excellent tool to help find the BIP.
Press [PEAK MEM] to turn on the feature. This feature draws and collects the echo
envelope of the signal while also drawing the live waveform. Match the live
waveform with the maximum point corresponding to the previously accumulated
echo-dynamic curve. Refer to Figure 9-14 on page 108 for a detailed schematic for
using the Peak Memory feature to find the BIP. Press [PEAK MEM] again to turn off
the feature.

Figure 9-14 Locating the beam-index point

4.

108

Hold the probe stationary once you have peaked up the signal and mark the side
of the transducer wedge directly over the 0 mark on the block. This is the BIP
the point at which the sound leaves the wedge and enters the material with
maximum energy.

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9.5.2

Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta)

The refracted angle of the probe should already have been entered in the EPOCH XT
in the initial steps of the calibration procedure. Although the wedge might be marked
45, for example, the actual refracted angle could be slightly different due to the
properties of the test material or the amount of wear on the wedge. It is necessary to
verify the actual angle. This ensures that the EPOCH XTs sound path calculations are
accurate.

To verify the refracted angle


1.

Position the probe over the appropriate angle mark on the block, which is 45 in
this example.

IIW TYPE 1
Reference Block

Figure 9-15 Verifying the refracted angle

2.

Move the probe forward and backwards to peak up the echo coming from the
large circular hole in the side of the block. The circular hole may be filled with an
acrylic plug, but the procedure is the same.

The Peak Memory feature on the EPOCH XT is an excellent tool to help find the peak
of the signal.
3.

Hold the probe stationary once you have peaked up the signal. Note the degree
mark on the block that lines up with the BIP, which you marked on the side of the
wedge in the previous step. This is the actual refracted angle (Beta) for this
particular transducer and wedge in steel. If this value for Beta differs from the
value entered previously, enter the corrected angle now using the [ANGLE] key
and the slewing keys.
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9.5.3

Calibrating for Distance

This step differs depending on which type of IIW calibration block is used.

The ASTM E-164 IIW Type I Block, which has a crescent cut in the side, produces
echoes at 4.0 in. (101.1 mm) and 9.0 in. (228.6 mm) on the screen. The U.S. Air Force
IIW Type II Block, which has a large cutout in the side, produces echoes at 2 in. and
4 in. on the screen. The procedure to follow uses the Olympus IIW Type I carbon steel
calibration block, part number TB7541-1.
We recommend that the EPOCH XTs Range parameter be set to 10 in. (254 mm) for
this step. Regardless of whether a Type I or Type II Calibration block is used, this
should ensure that the echoes from the block are visible on screen.

To calibrate for distance

110

1.

Couple the probe to the block so that the BIP is directly over the 0 mark on the
ASTM test block (or the Air Force block). Do not move the transducer from this
point during this step.

2.

Press [CAL]. A calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying
the EPOCH XT is in Auto Calibration mode. To exit the Auto Calibration mode at
any point, press [CAL] again.

3.

Position Gate 1 so that the echo reflection from the 4 in. arc (this should be the
first large echo after the main bang) is exceeding the gate threshold.

4.

Adjust the Gain setting so that the echo amplitude is approximately 80 %. A


thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

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Figure 9-16 Calibrating for distance

5.

Press [ZERO] (Offset) once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a dialog
box appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known
sound path distance for this arc. For this example, press [4] [.] [0] [0] [0]. The entry
appears in the dialog box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the
[ZERO|DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct
thickness.

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Figure 9-17 Entering a thin standard value

6.

Press [F1] to continue. The display returns to the live A-scan.

7.

Position Gate 1 so that the echo from the 1 in. crescent exceeds the gate threshold.
This echo is generally located at approximately the ninth or tenth screen division
and is usually the third echo after the main bang.

8.

Adjust the Gain setting so that this echo amplitude is approximately 40 %. A


thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

Another echo might be present on the screen at approximately the eighth or ninth
screen division. Disregard this echo as it is usually the result of beam spreading and
sound bouncing off the side of the block. Ensure Gate 1 is not over this echo.

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Figure 9-18 Adjusting the gain

9.

Press [CAL], then [VEL] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a
dialog box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the
exact known sound path distance for this crescent. For this example, press [9], [.],
[0], [0], [0]. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO|DELETE] key
multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

Figure 9-19 Entering a thick standard value

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10. Press [F2] to calculate and complete the Auto Calibration. The Zero (Offset) and
Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct sound path readings of
any gated echoes are displayed on the screen. Note that the range might have
changed slightly due to the change in velocity during the calibration.

9.5.4

Calibrating for Sensitivity

The final step in the angle beam calibration is to calibrate for sensitivity. This lets you
set up a reference gain level.

To calibrate for sensitivity


1.

Couple the probe to the IIW calibration block so that the transducer is aimed at
the 0.060 in. diameter side-drilled hole, which is used as a reference reflector.

IWW TYPE 1
Reference Block

Figure 9-20 IIW calibration block with 0.060 in. diameter drilled hole

2.

Move the probe forward and backwards until you have peaked up the return
signal from the hole (that is, found the maximum amplitude). Do not confuse the
reference-reflector echo from the side of the block.

The Peak Memory feature on the EPOCH XT is an excellent tool to help find the signal
peak.
3.

114

Adjust the system sensitivity (Gain) up or down once the echo is peaked up to
bring the reference reflector signal to a predetermined reference line on the
screen. In this example, the echo is brought to 80 % of full-screen height.

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4.

Press [2ND F], [GAIN] (REF GAIN) to lock in the reference-gain level. Scanning
gain can now be added/subtracted from this reference gain level.

5.

Press the function keys once the reference-gain functions are activated to select
between adding or subtracting in 0.1 dB or 6.0 dB increments.

Figure 9-21 Locking the reference gain to add/subtract scanning gain

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10. Managing the Instrument Data Logger

This chapter describes how to manage the EPOCH XTs internal data logger. Olympus
has designed the data logger for ease of use and a wide range of file types and
features for flaw detection and corrosion-thickness gaging requirements. The data
logger includes the following capabilities:

Data organized by file and identifier (ID) codes

Alphanumeric filenames and identifier (ID) codes

File Description, Inspector ID, and Location Note field for every file

File types similar to corrosion-thickness gages:

Calibration files

Incremental files

Sequential files

Sequential files with custom point

2-D Matrix Grid files

2-D EPRI

2-D Matrix Grid Files with custom point

3-D Matrix Grid files

Boiler files

Ability to edit files and add and delete IDs, rename files, clear file contents,
and delete files

On-screen review of all file contents

File summary screen for measurement review without A-scan and setup

Ability to transfer data between the EPOCH XT and a PC or printer

The titles for the following sections are as follows:

Data Logger Storage Capacity

Managing the Instrument Data Logger

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Data Logger Menu

Creating Data Files

Data File Types

Opening Data Files

Saving to Data Files

File Summary and Review

Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibration)

Reporting

Report Header Setup

Printing

Instrument Resets

10.1 Data Logger Storage Capacity


The EPOCH XT data logger is designed to store the following information every time
you press the [SAVE] key:

File name

Identifier (ID) code

Alarm conditions

Gate measurement modes

Sound path leg for each gate

0 to 5 measurements Instrument saves all active measurements selected by


the operator to display on the instrument screen.

A-scan waveform

Peak Memory envelope or Peak Hold waveform, if active

Complete setup parameters

Flag status ([FREEZE], (ZOOM), [PEAK MEM], etc.)

Active software feature(s) (DAC/TVG, DGS/AVG, AWS D1.1/D1.5)

The EPOCH XT data logger can store up to 10,000 IDs with the information listed
above. All data is stored for every ID that you choose to save.

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10.2 Data Logger Menu


The EPOCH XTs data logger menu is accessed by pressing [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). Doing
so brings you to a tabbed menu similar to the [DISPLAY SETUP], [MEAS SETUP],
and [INSTR SETUP] menus discussed in this manual. The EPOCH XT data logger
menu has four tabs organizing data logger functions: Open, Create, ReportSetup,
and Resets. These tabs are covered in detail in the sections that follow. When you first
enter the data logger, you see a screen similar to the screen below:

10.2.1

Creating Data Files

You must create a data file before any information can be stored in the EPOCH XT.
This can be done onboard, or the file(s) can be created in the GageView Pro interface
program and downloaded to the instrument. To create files onboard the instrument,
enter the Data logger menu and access the Create tab shown in the following
illustration:

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On this screen you perform the following operations:

Choose file type to create

Enter a file name File names in the EPOCH XT are 8 characters

Enter an ID prefix ID prefixes in the EPOCH XT are up to 11 characters

Create IDs based on the file type selected

Enter a File description, if desired

Enter an inspector ID (Ins Id), if desired

Enter a location note (LOC-NT), if desired

Once you have entered all of the desired information in the Create tab, you can press
[F1] (Create) to create the data file and place it in the instruments list of available files
shown in section 10.2 on page 119 of this manual.

10.2.2

Data File Types

The EPOCH XT allows you to create many file types based on application
requirements. The file types that are available are similar to the EPOCH 4 series of
ultrasonic flaw detectors and to the Panametrics 37DL PLUS corrosion thickness
gage from Olympus. The following sections provide information regarding each file
type.

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10.2.2.1

Calibration

A Calibration file is a special file type designed specifically for storing calibration
setups. Calibration files have space to store one single ID with its corresponding
waveform and data. Users often create separate calibration files for the different
transducers, materials, or test parts that are being used. The advantage to storing
setup data in calibration files is that the data can then be quickly recalled to the live
screen using the Quick Recall function (see section 10.2.6 on page 143 for further
information).

To create a Calibration file


1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the calibration (CAL) file type. To
continue, press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Starting ID. To continue, press
[ENTER].

7.

Enter file header information, if desired.

8.

Press [F1] to Create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

If the calibration file already contains saved information, the EPOCH XT displays the
prompt below to warn you and to ask if the existing data should be overwritten. You
can also enter the data logger and clear the ID in the Calibration file and then save
data into the open ID.

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10.2.2.2

Incremental

After entering a starting ID number (up to 11 alphanumeric characters in the ID Prefix


and up to 10 alphanumeric characters in the ID number itself), the EPOCH XT
automatically increments the subsequent ID numbers using the following
incrementing rules:

Only that portion of an ID number consisting of digits and letters (no


punctuation marks) beginning with the right-most character and extending
leftward to the first punctuation mark or to the left-most character (whichever
comes first), can increment.

Digits are cycled 0, 1, 2, ..., 9, 0, etc. The 9 to 0 transition is done only after
incrementing the character to the left. Letters are cycled A, B, C, ..., Z, A, etc.
The Z to A transition is done only after incrementing the character to the left.
In either case, if there is no character to the left or if the character to the left is
a punctuation mark, then the ID number cannot increment.

If an ID number cannot increment, then after a reading is saved, an error beep


sounds and the momentary message CANNOT INCREMENT is shown on
the display above the function keys. Subsequent saves overwrite readings if
you do not manually change the ID number first.

To make the instrument increment through a range of numbers several digits wide
while beginning with a single digit ID number, the maximum number of digit
positions must be entered initially using leading zeroes. See Figure 10-1 on page 123.

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Figure 10-1 Example of automatically generated incremented ID number series

To create an incremental file


1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the incremental (INC) file type. To
continue, press [ENTER].
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4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Starting ID. To continue, press
[ENTER].

7.

Enter file header information, if desired.

8.

Press [F1] to Create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.3

Sequential

A sequential file is defined by a starting and an ending ID number. The resulting file is
inclusive of the starting and ending points and all points in between.

Table 5 Example of start ID# = ABC123


Start ID# = ABC123
End ID# = ABC135
Resulting file would contain the
following list of ID numbers:
ABC123
ABC124
ABC125
.
.
.
ABC135

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Table 6 Example of start ID# = XY-GY


Start ID#
End ID# =
Resulting
following
XY-GY
XY-GZ
XY-HA
.
.
.
XY-IB

= XY-GY
XY-IB
file would contain the
list of ID numbers:

To create a sequential file


1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the sequential SEQ file type. To
continue, press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the up and down arrow keys to enter the desired increment step.

7.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

8.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

9.

Enter file header information if desired.

10. Press [F1] to Create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.4

Sequence with Custom Point

A sequential file with Custom Points is defined by a starting and an ending ID


number plus a series of custom points. The resulting file is inclusive to the starting
and ending points and all points in between. In addition, multiple measurements per
ID number location are assigned using the assigned custom points.
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The following example describes measurements along a pipe or tube where at each ID
number location you can take a measurement at top, bottom, left, and right of the
pipe.
Table 7 Example of starting ID# = XYZ1267
Starting ID# = XYZ1267
Ending ID# = XYZ1393
Custom Points = TOP
BOTTOM
LEFT
RIGHT
Resulting file would contain the following
list of ID numbers:
XYZ1267TOP
XYZ1267BOTTOM
XYZ1267LEFT
XYZ1267RIGHT
XYZ1268TOP
XYZ1268BOTTOM
XYZ1268LEFT
.
.
.
XYZ1393RIGHT

You can enter up to 20 custom points. The total number of characters in an ID with
Custom Points is 19.

To create a Sequential with Custom Points file

126

1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the sequential with Custom Points
(SEQ+CPT) file type. To continue, press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the up and down arrow keys to enter the desired increment step.

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7.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

8.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

9.

Enter the first custom point with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the
custom point into the list below the entry box.

10. To enter another Custom Point, edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and
press insert. Repeat until all custom points are entered. The list can be reviewed
using the [F2] (PREVIOUS) and [F3] (NEXT) keys. Use [F4] (DELETE) to remove
a custom point.
11. When all custom points have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue.
12. Enter file header information, if desired.
13. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.5

2-D Matrix Grid

A grid is a sequence of ID numbers arranged to describe a path through a 2-D or 3-D


matrix. Each part of the ID number corresponds to a particular matrix dimension.
A 2-D (two-dimensional) sequence begins with the ID number that refers to the first
column and the first row. Then the column (or row) increments one value at a time
until the sequence reaches the last column (or row) value while the other dimension
value stays constant. At this point, the other dimension increments from its first to its
next value. This continues until the ID number that refers to the last column and last
row is reached.

Either the columns or the rows can be selected to increment first. Refer to the
following figure.

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How is a grid used? A grid structure can associate one dimension of the grid (for
example, the columns) with the physical parts whose wall thickness is to be
measured. The particular measurement points on each part are then associated with
the other dimension of the grid (for example, the rows). See Figure 10-2 on page 129.

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Measurement location

ID number

Row
Column

Figure 10-2 One grid for 75 identical parts

Alternatively, the rows and columns of a grid can refer to 2-D map measurement
points on the surface of one part. In this case, a different grid is made for each part.
See Figure 10-3 on page 130.

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Name: Elbow
Rows: 01 through 10
Columns: A through E
IDs: Elbow/A0 through Elbow/E10

Name: Tee
Rows: 1 through 4
Columns: 1 through 3
IDs: Tee/11 through Tee/34

Figure 10-3 Different named grid for each part

To create a 2-D grid file

130

1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the 2-D grid 2D file type. To continue,
press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

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6.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

7.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

8.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start row (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

9.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end row (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

10. Select the pattern type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue,
press [ENTER].
11. Select the increment order (Row or Column). To continue, press [ENTER].
12. Enter file header information if desired.
13. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.6

2-D Matrix Grid with Custom Point

A grid is a sequence of ID numbers arranged to describe a path through a 2-D or 3-D


matrix. Each part of the ID number corresponds to a particular matrix dimension. See
section 10.2.2.5 on page 127 in this manual for more information.
Custom Points allow multiple readings per grid ID number to be assigned.

Table 8 Example of 2-D matrix grid with custom point


Start Column A
End Column J (Start Grid Coordinate = A01)
Start Row 01
End Row 17 (End Grid Coordinate = J17)
Custom Points = LEFT
CENTER
RIGHT
Resulting file would contain the following
list of ID Numbers:
A01LEFT
A01CENTER
A01RIGHT
A02LEFT
.
.
.
J17RIGHT

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To create a 2-D grid with custom points file


1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the 2D Grid with Custom Points
(2D+CPT) file type. To continue, press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

7.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

8.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start row (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

9.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end row (ID). To continue press
[ENTER].

10. Select the pattern type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue,
press [ENTER].
11. Select the increment order (Row or Column). To continue, press [ENTER].
12. Enter the first custom point with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the
custom point in the list below the entry box.
13. To enter another custom point, edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and
press insert. Repeat until all custom points are entered. The list can be reviewed
using the [F2] (PREVIOUS) and [F3] (NEXT) keys. Use [F4] (DELETE) to remove
a custom point.
14. When all custom points have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue.
15. Enter file-header information, if desired.
16. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.7

3-D Matrix Grid

A 3-D matrix grid is a sequence of multipart ID numbers arranged to describe a path


through a 3-D matrix. Each part of the ID number corresponds to a particular matrix
dimension.

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A 3-D (three-dimensional) sequence begins with the ID number that refers to the first
column, the first row and the first point. Then the point (or column, or row)
increments one value at a time until the sequence reaches the last point (or column, or
row) value while the other two dimension values stay constant. At this point another
dimension increments from its first to its next value. This continues until the ID
number that refers to the last column, last row and last point is reached. You can select
either columns, rows, or points to increment first and one of the remaining two
selections to increment second.
How is a 3-D grid used? A 3-D grid structure can associate two dimensions of the grid
(for example, the columns and rows) with the physical coordinates on the part whose
wall thickness is to be measured. The particular measurement points on each part are
then associated with the third dimension of the grid. This scenario allows multiple
readings to be stored at each grid coordinate.
Table 9 Example of 3-D grid
Start Col =
End Col = F
Start Row =
End Row = 4
Start Point
End Point =

A
1
= X
Z

Resulting file would contain the following


list of ID numbers:
A1X
A1Y
A1Z
A2X
.
.
.
A4Z
B1X
B1Y
.
.
.
F4Z

To create a 3-D Grid file


1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens. ([ID])

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2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the 3D Grid (3-D) file type. To
continue, press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start point (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

7.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end point (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

8.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

9.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end column (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].

10. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start row (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].
11. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end row (ID). To continue, press
[ENTER].
12. Select the Pattern Type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue,
press [ENTER].
13. Select which ID component with increment first. To continue, press [ENTER].
14. Select which ID component with increment second. To continue, press [ENTER].
15. Enter file-header information, if desired.
16. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.8

Boiler

A Boiler file is a special file type designed specifically for boiler applications. A
common method for identifying a thickness measurement location is by a 3-D
approach. The first dimension is Elevation, which refers to the physical distance from
the bottom to the top of the boiler. The second dimension is Tube Number, which
refers to the number of boiler tubes that need inspection. The third dimension is the
Custom Point, which refers to the actual thickness reading location at the specified

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elevation on the specified tube. When these three dimensions are combined, a single
ID number is formed to precisely identify the exact location of each thickness reading.
For example:
Table 10 Example of Boiler
Elevations = 10ft-, 20ft-, 45ft-. 100ftStart Tube = 01
End Tube = 73
Custom Points = L,C, R (left, center, right)
The resulting file would contain the following list of ID numbers:
10ft-01L
10ft-01C
10ft-01R
10ft-02L
.
.
.
10ft-73R
20ft-10L
.
.
.
100ft-73C
100ft-73R
(This example assumes that you have chosen to increment the custom
points first, tube number second, and elevation third. You can
choose alternate incrementing methods.)

To create a Boiler file


1.

Press [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The Data Logger menu opens.

2.

Press [F1] (NEXT) to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create
tab.

3.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the boiler (BOILER) file type. To
continue, press [ENTER].

4.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press
[ENTER].

5.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press
[ENTER].

6.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the start tube. To continue, press [ENTER].

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7.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the end tube. To continue, press [ENTER].

8.

Select the Pattern Type for ID incrementing (Standard or Zigzag). To continue,


press [ENTER].

9.

Select which ID component with increment first. To continue, press [ENTER].

10. Select which ID component with increment second. To continue, press [ENTER].
11. Enter the first custom point with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the
custom point into the list below the entry box.
12. To enter another custom point edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and
press insert. Repeat until all custom points are entered. The list can be reviewed
using the [F2] (PREVIOUS) and [F3] (NEXT) keys. Use [F4] (DELETE) to remove
a custom point.
13. When all custom points have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue.
14. Enter the first elevation with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the
elevation into the list below the entry box.
15. To enter another elevation, edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and
press insert. Repeat until all elevations are entered. The list can be reviewed using
the [F2] and [F3] (NEXT) keys. Use [F4] (DELETE) to remove a elevation.
16. When all elevations have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue.
17. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter start column (ID). To continue press
[ENTER].
18. Enter file header information, if desired.
19. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument returns to the Open tab. Once the file
has been placed in the file list, you can use the file for data storage.

10.2.2.9

2-D EPRI

The 2-D EPRI file type is the same as the standard 2-D grid file type except for a minor
change in the way alpha characters increment:

136

1.

Standard 2-D Grid File: Refers to the standard incrementing columns that start at
A and extend past Z. Example: Start Column: A; End Column: AD; Column
Result: A, B, C...X, Y, Z, AA, AB, AC, AD.

2.

EPRI 2-D Grid File: Refers to custom incrementing columns that start at A and
extend past Z. Example: Start Column: A; End Column: CC; Column Result: A, B,
C...Z, AA, BB, CC.

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10.2.3

Opening Data Files

The EPOCH XT lists all files that have been created or downloaded to the instrument
in a list within the Data Logger menu > Open tab. This screen provides you with a list
of files, their file type (INC, SEQ, 2D, etc.), the date and time of creation, and any file
header information that was entered when the file was created.
The screen below shows the Open tab:

The highlighted file TEST is an incremental file. To open this file, you simply need
to press the [F1] (Open) key. This brings you back to the live screen and the active file
is now TEST. This is illustrated as follows:

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The Open function does not recall any instrument setup or calibration to the live
screen. This function simply opens the selected file so you can save data.

Once the file has been opened, you can begin saving data by pressing the [SAVE] key.
The EPOCH XT attempts to save data to the ID displayed. In most cases the ID does
not already contain data. However, in some cases the ID already contains saved
information. If this happens the EPOCH XT displays the prompt below to warn you
and to ask if the existing data should be overwritten.

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When there is an active file open and you press the ID key, there are four choices that
are displayed above the function keys (shown above):

First Jumps to the first ID in the active file.

Last Jumps to the last ID in the active file.

Find You are able to enter an ID number and have the instrument search for
it within the active file. If it is located, the instrument jumps there.

Insert You are able to insert a new ID within the active file. If you attempt to
insert an ID when there is no active file, the EPOCH XT displays a message
No Survey Selected at the bottom of the display.

10.2.4

Saving to Data Files

The EPOCH XT allows you to save data whenever there is an active file (survey) and
an ID has been entered. Files are created in the Data Logger menu (as described in
section 10.2.1 on page 119 of this manual) or in GageView Pro and then transferred to
the EPOCH XT.
In order to save data within a file, press the [SAVE] key. If there is no active ID then
the instrument displays the error message No active ID at the bottom of the display.
You must have an active file (survey) and an ID entered before saving data.
When you press the [SAVE] key, the EPOCH XT saves the following information:

Filename
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ID

Up to 5 measurements (operator selected)

A-scan waveform

All instrument setup parameters

Alarm information

Any display flags

Gate measurement mode icons

Leg indicators for both gates

Any displayed peak memory envelopes or peak hold A-scans

Software feature/option setups

10.2.5

File Summary and Review

The EPOCH XT allows you to review inspection data and calibrations on the
instrument. There are two main methods for this: File Summary and File Review.

File Summary shows you a table that lists IDs and all saved measurements in
each ID location. This view does not show the instrument setup or the A-scan.
This feature is typically used to review data files where the inspector is
primarily interested in thickness measurements. This function is also used to
review saved measurements for other applications since the EPOCH XT is
capable of storing many measurement types and up to 5 measurements can
be saved within each ID.

File Review is typically used to review instrument setups (calibrations) and to


examine captured A-scans along with measurements, software
option/features, echo envelopes, etc. This view displays everything that has
been saved with each ID within the selected file.

To access File Summary and File Review, you must enter the Data Logger menu >
Open tab and then select the file to review. This is shown in the screen below:

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To enter the File Summary screen, you must press [F3] (Summary). To enter the File
Review screen, press [F2] (Contents).
The File Summary screen is shown below:

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Each set of two rows in the File Summary screen represents data from one ID. In the
example above there are 5 saved IDs: ID001, ID002, ID003, ID004, and ID005. Each ID
was saved with 4 measurements listed in separate columns with their measurement
icon. For each ID, the unit (in., mm, s) is also displayed in the fourth column, upper
row.
Within this view, you have the option to [F1] (CLEAR), [F2] (DELETE), and [F5]
[CANCEL]. (CLEAR) removes all ID data from the file. (DELETE) deletes the entire
file, and (CANCEL) returns you to the previous screen.
The File Review screen is shown below:

This window is scrollable using the up and down arrow keys. The left and right arrow
keys are used to jump from one ID to the next. Alternatively, you can use the [F1]
(First), [F2] (Last), and [F5] (Find) functions to jump to particular areas within the file.
This is useful when many IDs have been saved within a file. The [F4] (Clear) function
clears the data from the selected ID. The ID itself remains so that new data can be
saved in that location.
The full file review screen for the example file shown in the screen above has been
combined and displayed below. The entire instrument setup and all other data are
displayed for operator review.

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The EPOCH XT is capable of printing each ID individually to a USB memory stick in


an .htm format for quick and easy report exporting.

10.2.6

Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibration)

To recall a stored instrument setup (calibration), you can either access the File Review
screen discussed in section 10.2.5 on page 140 of this manual (previous section), or use
the quick recall calibration function.
Once you have selected the file of interest and entered the File Review screen, you
must select the ID that contains the instrument setup to be recalled. The File Review
screen is shown below:

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You must locate the proper ID by using the left and right arrow keys or the [F1]
(First), [F2] (Last), and [F5] (Find) functions to jump to particular areas within the file.
Then press [F3] (Recall).
Calibration (CAL) file types can also be recalled through the Recall Setup function on
the unit. Pressing the [2ND F], [CAL] keys brings up a list of all the calibration (CAL)
file types that are stored on the unit. Once you have selected the calibration file to be
recalled, press [F1] (Recall) to recall the file.
Once the file has been recalled, you are brought back to the main instrument screen
and the instrument setup is displayed. The setup is not active. The state of the display
is now RECALL FREEZE. An R flag indicates this. To return to the live screen, press
the [MEAS RESET] key. See following screen:

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At this point, the EPOCH XTs stored setup has been recalled, and you can begin to
use the instrument. It is always recommended that you recheck the calibration as
probe and wedge wear, temperature changes, and other factors that can affect the
accuracy of the calibration.

10.3 Reporting
The EPOCH XT has been designed to allow you to create basic reports on the
instrument and print them out in the field over the instruments USB host port. In
order to generate on onboard report, you must be able to set up the report header, set
up the printer output, and have access to a PCL5 compatible USB printer.

10.3.1

Report Header Setup

You can set up the report header in the Data logger menu > ReportSetup tab. The
Data logger menu is accessed by pressing [2ND F], [ID] (FILE). The ReportSetup tab is
illustrated as follows:

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You can customize all of the header titles and data. The information displayed above
is just an example. The information in the header is placed at the top of the reports
that are printed from the instrument.

10.3.2

Printing

The EPOCH XT is designed to directly print to any PCL5 compatible USB printer. You
must set up the printer in the Data Logger menu > ReportSetup tab shown below:

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You can choose between PCL Laser or PCL Inkjet printer types. Draft Mode allows
you to print with less ink/toner if desired. You can also choose to print in color or
black and white.
Reports may be printed either from the live A-scan screen or from the File Review and
File Summary areas by pressing [2ND F], [ALPHA/NUM] (PRINT). If you print from
the live screen, a preview that looks like the file review screen appears first. An
example report is shown as follows:

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10.3.3

Instrument Resets

The EPOCH XT can be reset to factory parameters if needed. The instrument resets
are located in the Data Logger menu > Resets tab. There are five choices available:

Master/Database Resets all instrument setup parameters to factory settings


and clears the instrument data logger.

Parameters Resets all instrument setup parameters to factory settings.

Database Clears the instrument data logger.

Editable Parameters Returns all function-key presets to factory defaults.

Probe Library Resets DGS probe library to factory defaults.

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11. Software Features and Options

The EPOCH XT comes standard with DAC/TVG and has five onboard software
options: DGS/AVG, AWS D1.1/D1.5, B-scan, Floating Gate, and Advanced Filters.
These features are accessed within the [MEAS SETUP] menu under the Options tab.
The screen below shows this location:

11.1

Defining Active/Inactive Options

All of the available options are listed in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. If an
option is active in the instrument, then you are able to highlight it and see the option
setup parameters on the right side of the tab. If the option is not active, the instrument
displays a red line through the option, and the option is not available.

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The software options can be added to the EPOCH XT at an additional cost. This
activation can be performed at the factory before the instrument is shipped or it can be
done remotely with an access code. You must contact Olympus to have access codes
generated. These codes are entered in the [INST SETUP] menu > Status tab shown as
follows:

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11.2
11.2.1

DAC/TVG
Description

A distance amplitude correction (DAC) curve is used to plot amplitude variations of


signals from reflectors of the same size, but at different distances from the transducer.
Normally, these reflectors produce echoes of varying amplitude due to material
attenuation and beam spread as the sound beam travels through the part. The
purpose of the DAC curve is to graphically compensate for material attenuation
nearfield affects, beam spread, and surface roughness.
After plotting a DAC curve, reflectors of the same size as those used for creation of the
curve produce echoes that peak along the curve despite different locations within the
test piece. Similarly, reflectors that are smaller than those used to create the curve fall
below the level, while larger reflectors exceed the curve level.
When a DAC curve is created in the EPOCH XT, the instrument also creates a
time-varied gain (TVG) setup. TVG is used to compensate for the same factors as
DAC, but the presentation is different. Instead of drawing a curve across the display
that follows the reference reflector peaks downward as sound is attenuated, the TVG
setup amplifies the gain as a function of time (distance) to bring the reference
reflectors to the same screen height (80 % FSH).

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The EPOCH XT DAC/TVG feature allows you to toggle between DAC and TVG views
in many of its modes, giving freedom to use both techniques during a single
inspection. When you switch from DAC to TVG view, the DAC curves are displayed
as TVG lines across the screen. The time-varied gain effectively amplifies the signals
across the time base to make the DAC curves appear as straight lines across the
screen.
You can customize DAC/TVG setups to their unique application requirements using
the flexible DAC/TVG software feature for the EPOCH XT. The DAC/TVG feature
incorporates several DAC/TVG modes that adhere to ASME, ASME-3, and JIS sizing
codes. The software offers direct control of gain, range, zero offset, and delay, as well
as scanning gain and transfer correction. In addition, the DAC/TVG option provides
new features such as 20 % to 80 % DAC curves, customizable DAC curves, and a
user-defined TVG table to meet advanced and unique inspection needs.

11.2.2

Option Activation and Reference Correct

Prior to the activation of any options associated with DAC/TVG, the instrument must
be properly calibrated to the material being inspected. The DAC/TVG option is
located under the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. To begin the activation
process, enter the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab, highlight DAC/TVG and
press the [ENTER] key. Use the arrow keys or the function keys to highlight the
desired DAC/TVG function. An example of this is shown as follows:

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You can also choose to apply a feature known as reference correction (REF
CORRECT) to the digital analysis of the live A-scan and DAC/TVG option. The
reference correction feature, when activated, permits full gain manipulation of either
the live echo peaks or the DAC curve while providing the % amplitude or dB
comparison of the actual peak-to-curve ratio. In this way, you can use scanning gain,
while maintaining an accurate digital measurement of the ratio of the gated peak to
the DAC curve for sizing purposes. The gated echo amplitude is corrected back to the
Reference Gain level for amplitude evaluation compared to the DAC curve.
Once you have selected the type of DAC/TVG setup for the application, press the
[MEAS RESET] key to return to the live A-scan screen to begin DAC/TVG setup.
In the sections below, all DAC/TVG modes are covered. The DAC/TVG setup
procedure is the same for all modes with the exception of TVG table. The setup is
covered in detail in the ASME / ASME-3 section to follow. Any differences in the
procedure to set up other DAC/TVG modes are discussed in the pertinent section for
that particular mode.

11.2.3

ASME & ASME-3 DAC/TVG

The ASME DAC mode is a single DAC curve drawn from peak to peak on reference
reflectors. The ASME-3 mode draws three DAC curves: one main curve from peak to
peak on the reference reflectors and two warning curves at 6 dB and 14 dB
compared to the main curve.

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11.2.4

ASME-3 DAC Setup Example

Once you have entered the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab and selected
ASME-3 as the DAC/TVG mode, press [MEAS/RESET] to return to the live
instrument screen. The instrument screen appears as follows:

To capture DAC points, you must move Gate 1 to the echo, press [F5] (AUTO80 %) to
bring the echo to 80 % FSH, and press [F1] to capture the point. The screen below
shows the first point captured. An symbol has been placed on the echo peak.

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The screen as follows shows the EPOCH XT display when the second point has been
captured:

The instrument has drawn the three DAC curves from the first point to the second.
The AUTO80 % function has been used to bring the second point to 80 % full-screen
height. This assures that the point is captured accurately because amplitude
resolution is better at greater echo heights. This also pushes the first captured echo
over 110 % FSH so the Main DAC curve and the 6 dB warning curve extend
downward to the second point from off-screen.
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While you are capturing DAC points (after 2 have been captured), you have the
option to:

[F2] (Delete) Delete the last captured point.

[F3] (Erase) Erase the entire DAC setup.

[F4] (Done) Complete the DAC setup.

The following screen shows the DAC setup after 5 points have been captured. All
points were brought to 80 % FSH before capture.

If you would like to continue from the point and capture additional points, you can
increase the instrument range or increase the display delay to view echoes further out
in time. If the setup is complete, then press [F4] (Done) to complete the setup. The
instrument returns to its base gain and displays the DAC setup. This is shown below:

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Now that DAC is active, the instrument has some special settings available for
adjustment:

Amp to Curve and dB to Curve You can now use Amplitude-to-Curve


and dB-to-Curve measurements. These are activated in the [MEAS SETUP]
menu > Meas tab. See section 4.8.1 on page 54 for more details. You can
always select these measurements, but they do not display measurements
unless a DAC/TVG or DGS/AVG curve is on-screen. In the screen above, the
Gate 1 Amp-to-Curve measurement is active in measurement location 5.

TVGView [F1] key You can press [F1] to activate the TVG view for the
active DAC/TVG setup. The TVG view for the setup above is shown below:

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The DAC curves have become TVG lines across the screen.

DACGain above [F2] This is a gain setting that affects the DAC curves and
the onscreen echoes allowing to compare amplitude at code compliant screen
levels across the time base. More details are given in section 11.2.5 on
page 161.

GainStep above [F3] This setting selects the step (0.1 dB, 1 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB,
12 dB) for the DAC GAIN adjustment.

NextDAC above [F5] With this setting you can cycle through the available
DAC curves (if more than one is available) for amplitude comparison with
on-screen echoes.

While DAC/TVG is active, you have full control of the Range, Delay, and Zoom
settings. With this you can focus on areas of interest within the DAC setup. The
following screen shows a reduced range with delay:

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11.2.5

Gain Adjustment Options

The DAC/TVG software features three separate types of gain adjustment for each
DAC/TVG setup. These gain adjustments allow to inspection more precisely, with
easier manipulation of curves and live peak information, and transfer correction.
In order to quickly find and identify potential defects, it is commonly required by
code to increase the gain (scanning gain) on the EPOCH XT from the Reference
(calibration) Gain for scanning purposes. However, once a potential defect is
identified, this gain is usually removed to view the reflector at REF Gain level, set at
calibration. The DAC/TVG software for the EPOCH XT is fully capable of adding
temporary scanning gain for inspection purposes. This scanning gain only affects the
live A-scan and does not adjust the level of the DAC curve(s) set up on screen.

To add temporary scanning gain


1.

Press the [GAIN] key.

2.

Use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment or the left and right arrow
keys for fine adjustment to bring the scanning gain to the desired level. The
scanning gain is displayed at the lower-left area of the screen.

3.

Once the desired scanning gain level is set, you can press [GAIN] and use the
Scan DB function key ([F2]) to toggle between the base (reference) gain or the
adjusted scanning gain.

4.

Scanning gain is disabled by pressing [GAIN] and then [F3] (Off).

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The screen below shows an ASME DAC setup with 3 dB of scanning gain added:

When reference correction is active, the digital comparison between a captured


reflector and the DAC curve is accurate even with scanning gain applied to the
inspection provided that the gated echo is not saturated. The screen below shows the
same setup as above but with Reference Correction active. Notice that the scanning
gain has been removed from the dB-to-Curve measurement in location 5. The
instrument compares the echo height to the DAC curve, compensates for the added
scanning gain, and reports the true-amplitude comparison.

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11.2.6

Curve Adjustment GainAlso Called DAC Gain or TVG Gain

The overall gain level of the entire DAC curve and TVG line setup can be adjusted
higher or lower from the Reference Gain. Most inspection codes do not permit
reflectors to be sized below 20 % of FSH. Therefore, to inspect beyond a certain
depth/sound path time within a part, it is necessary to raise the gain of both the live
A-scan and the DAC curve to continue the inspection. This is accomplished on the
EPOCH XT using the DAC Curve Adjustment Gain.
This gain adjustment is displayed below the live A-scan next to the Delay setting at all
times.

To adjust the gain


1.

Press the [F3] (GainStep) key to choose the increment of the gain adjustment
desired.

2.

Press the [F2] (DACGain) key and use the up and down arrows to adjust the
Curve Adjustment Gain by the selected increment either positive or negative.

The screen below shows a DAC setup with DAC gain in use to provide accurate echo
amplitude measurement by placing the echo close to 80 % FSH.

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11.2.7

Transfer Correction

Transfer Correction is an adjustment in the Reference Gain setting during calibration


of the instrument, and is typically added when the surface conditions between a
calibration block and test piece are different. The coupling conditions on the test
surface can often cause signal loss after calibrating a DAC curve, which results in
inaccurate comparisons of the test reflectors with the calibrated DAC curve. The
EPOCH XT can easily adjust for this potential difference by adding transfer correction
to the calibrated base gain after completing the DAC curve setup.

To add transfer correction to a completed DAC curve

164

1.

Press the [GAIN] key.

2.

Use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment or the left and right arrow
keys for fine adjustment to bring the scanning gain to the desired level for
Transfer Correction. The scanning gain is displayed at the lower-left area of the
screen.

3.

Once the desired scanning gain is displayed, press the Function Key [F1] (ADD)
to add the scanning gain to the base gain and to apply the transfer correction.

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11.2.8

JIS DAC

The Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) DAC mode is designed to meet the
requirements of JIS Z3060. The JIS DAC curve setup is identical to the standard
DAC/TVG setup. However, there are some minor functionality differences when
compared to other DAC/TVG modes:

11.2.9

Only the main DAC curve is viewable in TVG mode.

Any of the six curves can be used to trip the alarm when in the JIS DAC mode.
Additionally, you can set the alarm to positive or negative. To select which
curve to be used as the alarm reference level, first activate JIS DAC and then
use the [F5] function key to select which curve to use for the alarm threshold.
The selected curve appears as a double thickness line. Once a curve has been
selected, an alarm can be activated and set to be either positive or negative
threshold detection by pressing [2ND F], [GATES] (ALARMS) and following
the prompts.

20 %80 % DAC Option

This DAC/TVG mode incorporates a combination of the DAC curve and TVG
techniques. For most sizing and inspection codes that utilize a DAC curve, the
inspector cannot interrogate a potential defect that does not rise above 20 % of FSH. In
the past, scanning gain is added to inspect these defects that appear further into a part
and only reflect below 20 %. The necessary gain adjustment is then noted to calculate
the flaw size.
The 20 %80 % DAC feature takes advantage of the TVG functionality of DAC/TVG to
create a DAC curve that only falls between 20 % and 80 % screen height. Any echo
that falls below 20 % FSH during setup has 12 dB added to it automatically. A new
DAC curve section starting at 80 % FSH is created. This setup divides the screen into
12 dB DAC Gain regions. The DAC Gain is displayed based on the location of the
gated echo in time.

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The setup procedure for the 20 %80 % DAC is the same as the ASME & ASME-3
setup described earlier. The only difference is that you cannot use the AUTO80 %
function during the setup. The instrument automatically compensates for falling-echo
amplitude once an echo is captured below 20 % screen height.
Once the 20 %80 % DAC curve is completed, you can toggle between DAC and TVG
views, manipulate Range, Delay, Zero (Offset) and Angle, and also to add necessary
scanning gain or transfer correction. 20 %80 % DAC also incorporates the reference
correction functionality, if desired.

11.2.10 Custom DAC Curves Option


The DAC/TVG software option for the EPOCH XT features a customizable DAC
curve setup that allows you to define up to three additional reference curves from the
primary curve at varying levels from 24 dB to 10 dB. The Custom DAC Curves
option is ideal for unique sizing inspections and procedure development. The Custom
DAC Curve function also gives the option of either a straight-line connection or a
curved, polynomial connection of each point of the DAC curve to meet various
international or customer-specific requirements. The custom DAC setup features a
total of 6 additional curves.

To activate and set up the customized curves

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1.

Enter the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab.

2.

Select DAC and press the [ENTER] key. Select the Custom DAC mode.

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3.

Select the curve type Polynomial (curved) or Straight-line segments.

4.

Select the Number of Warning Curves to be used in addition to the Main Curve
(for example, when three (3) curves are activated, you see 4 curves in total).

5.

Set the dB level for each warning curve compared to the main curve.

6.

Press [MEAS/RESET] to return to the live screen and begin capturing DAC
points.

The Custom DAC/TVG setup and functionality are the same as ASME & ASME-3
discussed earlier in this section. The following screen shows a completed Custom
DAC/TVG.

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Once the Custom DAC Curve points have been captured and completed, you have
full capability of toggling between DAC and TVG views, manipulating Range, Delay,
Zero (Offset), and Angle, and also adding necessary scanning gain, curve gain
adjustment or transfer correction. The TVG view of any Custom DAC Curve includes
the user-defined reference curves as well as the primary DAC curve. Custom DAC
Curve also incorporates the reference correction functionality, if desired.

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11.2.11 TVG Table Option


DAC/TVGs TVG Table option for the EPOCH XT is a powerful tool designed to
facilitate manual definition of TVG setups, including gain manipulation, fine gain
adjustment, and TVG point addition or deletion. The TVG Table option is the only
feature in DAC/TVG that is exclusively TVG and does not toggle between a DAC and
TVG view. The TVG Table function of the EPOCH XT visually displays the slope of
the change in gain across the defined screen range using a line, allowing you to easily
visualize the relationship between the indications and any custom gain modifications
made during the TVG Table setup. The EPOCH XT TVG Table function has a number
of primary uses.

11.2.11.1

Immersion Inspection

One of the main uses for the TVG Table function is in immersion setups. A standard
TVG curve can be created using a reference block to aid in flaw sizing prior to
immersion inspection. However, the interface echo during an immersion inspection
can be very high in amplitude, which can severely decrease the near-surface
inspection capabilities of the instrument. When using a TVG Table, you can manually
adjust the gain in the screen range right around the interface echo to suppress the
effects of the interface echo. Other echoes near the surface are then easier to see and
size.

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11.2.11.2

Manual TVG Setup

In many circumstances, a part must be inspected for flaws using a TVG curve to
determine the rejectability of any flaws found within the part, but the part is too large
or expensive to have a reference block of equal size and composition. The TVG Table
feature allows you to manually add points along the TVG curve and manipulate the
gain slope across the screen range to create an accurate TVG curve without a reference
block (typically this is accomplished using the DGS diagram that corresponds to the
particular material and transducer being used).

11.2.11.3

Highly Attenuating Material

In many highly attenuating materials, such as many composites, it takes a large


amount of gain to successfully penetrate to the back wall of a particular part. This
high level of gain can cause significant noise in nearer areas of the part and
completely obscure any potential defects in the beginning half of the inspected
material. A TVG Table can be used to modify the gain throughout the part allowing
clear visibility of the back wall for thickness measurement and clearer inspection of
near-surface reflectors. An initial gain can be established and a slope defined to ramp
the gain up from the interface of the part to the back wall.

11.2.12 TVG Table Setup


The TVG Table option can be used simply to define a TVG curve using a test block
and size reflectors without ever entering and/or editing specific TVG points. This
operation is similar to any of the DAC setups described earlier in this section.

To activate and define the TVG Table feature of DAC/TVG, including customized TVG point
setup
1.

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Enter the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab.

2.

Select DAC and then press the right arrow key.

3.

Select TVG Table and then press the [MEAS/RESET] key to return to the live
screen.

4.

You may now begin capturing points using Gate 1 and the [F1] key. This is shown
in progress in the following screen:

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Alternatively, press the [F5] (Edit) key to enter the TVG Table:

The previous screen shows the live A-scan with an empty TVG Table below it.

To build a TVG Table


1.

Press [F1] (Add) to add a point to the TVG Table. This becomes Point No. 1.

2.

Press [ENTER] to select the position adjustment. The instrument shows depth in
time-of-flight (TOF) and in the selected unit (in. or mm). These are tied together
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for adjustment purposes. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor across the top of
the screen to the first TVG point.

172

3.

Press [ENTER] to select the gain adjustment (dB from REF). Use the arrow keys to
adjust the gain from REF setting. A TVG line appears on the screen as a visual
reference to show the gain level. In relation to the TVG line, the Y-Axis scale is
0 dB to 110 dB, or the total dynamic range of the TVG system.

4.

You may continue to Add or Insert points as needed to complete the TVG Table.
The following screen shows a TVG Table with 19 points. You can setup as many as
50 points.

5.

The TVG Table displays each point (from left to right on the screen) in sequential
order from top to bottom in the table. The points corresponding sound path time
(s), distance measurement (in in. or mm, if applicable), and gain level is
displayed across the screen.

6.

At any time during the TVG Table setup, you may press [F5] (Exit) to return to the
live screen with the TVG Table in its current state. This allows Range, Delay, Zero
(Offset), etc., to be adjusted as needed. You can then press [F5] (Exit) again to
return to the TVG Table setup.

7.

Once the TVG Table has been created, you must press [F5] (Exit), followed by [F4]
(Done). This completes the setup and locks the table. It cannot be edited further.
An illustration of a completed TVG Table follows in two screens. This setup is
designed to permit good near- and far-surface resolution by minimizing the initial
pulse size and the back-wall echo size. This setup also permits easy monitoring of
the back-wall echo amplitude using Gate 2.

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11.3
11.3.1

DGS/AVG
Description

The Onboard DGS/AVG option in the EPOCH XT permits complete DGS/AVG setups
to be performed on the instrument. With the DGS/AVG method you can size defects
based upon a calculated DGS/AVG curve for a given transducer, material, and
reflector size. This method requires that you have only one reference reflector in order

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to create a DGS curve for flaw sizing. This is much different than the DAC or TVG
method that requires that you have representative defects at various depths within a
part in order to create a curve for flaw sizing.
In order for you to setup DGS/AVG curves on the instrument very quickly, Olympus
has developed a transducer library that is stored in the instruments memory. This
library contains the entire Atlas Series European specification transducers as well as
several other transducers that are commonly used by inspectors. The library includes
five categories:
1.

Straight Contact (includes protected face)

2.

Angle Beam Transducers

3.

Dual Transducers

4.

Custom Straight Contact

5.

Custom Angle Beam

All required data for building DGS/AVG curves is stored in the instruments memory
for each transducer in the library. If an operator would like to use a probe that is not in
the default library, he/she can enter the required transducer characteristics in the
GageView Pro interface program and download them to the EPOCH XT. Probes that
are downloaded to the instrument appear in the Custom Transducers section of the
Transducer library.
The onboard DGS/AVG option provides you with rapid setup times and easy
flaw-size evaluation. This software option has been designed to meet the
requirements of EN 583-2:2001. It is extremely important that you be familiar with this
specification and others, and qualified according to local standards to properly use
this instrument function. Since the curves used for defect sizing are calculated based
upon many variables, a proper instrument setup is required for accurate results.

11.3.2

Option Activation

Before activating the DGS/AVG option, you must properly set up the EPOCH XTs
Pulser/Receiver settings for the transducer that is to be used. You should also perform
an instrument calibration.

To activate the DGS/AVG option after the instrument is properly setup and calibrated
1.

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The DGS/AVG option is activated in the EPOCH XTs [MEAS SETUP] menu >
Options tab. Select DGS, press the [ENTER] key, and then press [F2] (On).

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2.

You must then choose the transducer and reference reflector that is to be used for
the DGS AVG setup. You can navigate through the Transducer library easily.
a)

Under Probe Type, select the proper library. For the example used in this
manual, we have selected Library Straight Beam. Press down to continue.

b)

Under Probe List, the instrument displays all probes in the selected library.
You must scroll through the list and select the probe. Press down to continue.

c)

Under Reflector Type, you find all of the potential reference reflectors for the
chosen probe.
For straight beam and dual probes, the available reflectors are:

Back wall

Side-drilled hole (SDH) You must enter the reflector size.

For angle beam probes, the available reflectors are:

K1-IIW Block Arc If this option is selected, you are prompted to enter a
Delta Vk value later in the setup procedure. This value comes from the
DGS Diagram for the selected probe.

K2-DSC Block Arc If this option is selected, you are prompted to enter a
Delta Vk value later in the setup procedure. This value comes from the
DGS Diagram for the selected probe.

Side-drilled hole (SDH) You must enter the reflector size.

Flat-bottom hole (FBH) You must enter the reflector size.

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3.

176

You must now adjust several DGS/AVG setup parameters so the instrument can
draw the curves accurately. A screen of this menu is shown as follows:

DeltaVk (not shown above, used for Angle Beam Setup) Correction
value for angle beam transducers. This value is located on the DGS/AVG
diagram for the selected transducer.

DeltaVt Transfer Correction. This value is used to compensate in


amplitude differences as a result of coupling variation (surface condition)

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from the calibration block to the test piece. EN 583-2:2001 provides


methods for calculating transfer correction.

Registration Level This is the height of the main DGS/AVG curve. The
curve represents the amplitude from a flat-bottom hole with a diameter of
the Registration Level at different depths. This is usually equal to the
critical flaw size for the application.

Warning Level This is the position of the secondary DGS/AVG


warning curve compared to the position of the main DGS/AVG curve.
If this value is set to zero, the warning curve is turned off.

AcvSpecimen This is the attenuation value in dB/m for the test piece
(specimen). In some cases, it is necessary to calculate the relative
attenuation within the test piece and enter the value here.

AcvCalBlock This is the attenuation value in dB/m for the calibration


block. In some cases, it is necessary to calculate the relative attenuation
within the calibration block and enter the value here.

Trained operators must be aware of when it is necessary to apply values to


AcvSpecimen and AcvCalBlock. These values affect the shape of the DGS/AVG curve
and, therefore, affect the accuracy of defect sizing. A suggested method for the
measurement of relative attenuation can be found later in this manual.
Use the up and down arrow keys to move from one parameter to the next.
The left and right arrow keys are used for adjusting the individual settings.
When this is complete, press the [MEAS/RESET] key to continue.
4.

Capture the reference reflector.

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After pressing [MEAS/RESET] at the DGS/AVG Setup menu, you are brought to the
live A-scan screen similar to the previous screen. You must bring the echo from the
reference reflector to 80 % full-screen height and press the [F1] (Ref) key to capture
the echo. Once the reference echo has been captured, the instrument adjusts the gain
as needed and draw the DGS/AVG curves on the screen. This is shown in the
following screen:

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Equivalent flat-bottom-hole size measurement is being used. This is established in the


[MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab. You may also use the Overshoot (OS)
measurement to compare echo height to the DGS/AVG curve in dB. Transfer
Correction (DeltaVt) is adjustable on the live screen. Registration Level (Reg) is
adjustable on the live screen.

In the view above, the instrument range has been adjusted to properly position the
DGS/AVG curves on the screen. This screen shows the main DGS/AVG curve and a
warning curve at 6 dB.

11.3.3

Relative Attenuation Measurement

There are several methods for measuring the ultrasonic attenuation within a material.
Often the procedure is designed to measure absolute attenuation in a material. This
usually requires an immersion test setup and a time-consuming set of measurements.
For the purpose of flaw sizing with the DGS/AVG method, it might be suitable in
many conditions to measure relative attenuation in the test piece or calibration block
as needed. This section outlines one method of relative attenuation measurement that
is simple and has been found to be generally effective. There might be more suitable

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methods available. You must decide the most appropriate method to arrive at the
values for AcvSpecimen and AcvCalBlock based on the application and local
requirements.
Measurements:
Vg = Gain difference between two successive back-wall echoes (d and 2d)
Ve = From DGS/AVG diagram. Gain difference on back-wall curve from 1st to 2nd

back wall (d to 2d)


Calculations:
Vs = Vg - Ve [mm]

Sound Attenuation Coefficient = Vs / 2d * 1000 [dB/m]

11.4

AWS D1.1/D1.5

11.4.1

Overview

The AWS D1.1 Software Option for the EPOCH XT has been created to assist
operators performing inspections covered under the American Welding Society D1.1
(or D1.5) Structural Welding Code for steel. This code provides you with a method to
classify discontinuities found in welds using ultrasonic inspection. This code uses the
following formula to develop an indication rating for a reflector found during an
inspection:
ABC=D
A = Discontinuity Indication Level (dB)
B = Reference Indication Level (dB)
C = Attenuation Factor: 2*(sound path in inches 1 in.) (dB)
D = Indication Rating (dB)
The AWS D1.1/D1.5 inspector must take the Indication Rating (D) that is calculated
based on A, B, and C to an Ultrasonic Acceptance Rejection Criteria table
produced by the AWS in order to classify the severity of the discontinuity that has
been located. As an inspection is performed, you are required to develop an AWS

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report that lists the values for all variables listed above as well as transducer
information, discontinuity length and location, and your overall evaluation of the
discontinuity.
For further details regarding the test equipment, methods, interpretation, and
classification requirements for these inspections, please refer to the AWS D1.1/D1.5
Code Book.

11.4.2

AWS D1.1/D1.5 and the EPOCH XT

Olympus has developed the AWS D1.1/D1.5 Software Option for the EPOCH XT with
the goal of simplifying inspector tasks and lowering the overall inspection time. This
is accomplished by having the EPOCH XT perform some required calculations
automatically and also by permitting you to document discontinuities in the
EPOCH XTs data logger for reporting purposes.
The EPOCH XT can also transfer inspection data to the GageView Pro Interface
Program to aid in report generation. This program allows you to view the
instruments setup parameters, the waveform generated by a discontinuity, the
discontinuitys sound path and location information, and all values for the AWS
D1.1/D1.5 formula variables.

11.4.3

Operating the AWS D1.1/D1.5 Software

The first step in operating the EPOCH XT for AWS D1.1/D1.5 inspections is to
calibrate the instrument for the transducer and test conditions. For information on the
Angle Beam Calibration of the EPOCH XT, see the calibration section of this manual
or the appropriate guidelines from the American Welding Society.
The AWS D1.1/D1.5 Software Option is activated in the [MEAS SETUP] menu >
Options tab as shown below:

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When AWS D1.1/D1.5 is activated, the function keys on the EPOCH XT take the
following assignments:

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[F1]: REF You can store the REF B dB value from a reference reflector.

[F2]: No function.

[F3]: No function.

[F4]: Scan dB You can toggle the scanning gain between an operator-selected
value and zero dB.

[F5]: AUTO80 You can bring a gated signal to 80 % FSH.

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After activation, you must set a REF B value in order to begin an inspection. This
number represents the gain level necessary to bring the echo from a reference reflector
to 80 % full-screen height (FSH). The reference reflector often is a side-drilled hole in
the calibration block used for the angle beam calibration. Other reference reflectors
may be used provided that they meet AWS requirements for these inspections.
In order to store a REF B value, you must gate the echo from the reference reflector
and bring the echo to 80 % FSH. This can be done by pressing [GAIN] and adjusting
the gain with the up and down arrow keys, or by pressing [F5] to automatically adjust
the gain to bring the echo to 80 % FSH. Once the echo has the appropriate amplitude,
press [F1] to store the value.

11.4.3.1

Adding Scanning Gain

AWS codes require that you enter a certain amount of scanning gain to the REF B dB
value. In doing so you can locate flaws that might be smaller or deeper in the test
piece than the reference flaw. By pressing [GAIN], you can enter the amount of
scanning gain necessary to perform the inspection as outlined by the AWS Code. Once
the scanning gain has been set up, press [F3] to turn off the scanning gain. Scanning
gain can also be turned on by [2nd F] followed by [GAIN].
When a discontinuity has been located within the test piece, the EPOCH XT provides
you with a D value corresponding to the discontinuity. However, in order to display a
D value, the gated echo must peak at an amplitude less than 110 % FSH. Often, you
will simply have to press the [F3] key to turn off the scanning gain to bring the echo
peak onto the screen. In some cases, further gain adjustments may be necessary.
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11.4.3.2

Calculating A and C Values

When a gated echo, whose peak is below 100 % FSH, is present, the EPOCH XT
automatically calculates the A and C values necessary to provide a D value. For A, the
EPOCH XT automatically calculates the required dB value to bring the gated echo to
80 % FSH. To calculate C, the EPOCH XT uses the data in the sound path calculator to
generate an attenuation factor.

In order for this calculation to be accurate, enter the correct thickness for the test
piece. The EPOCH XT displays the value for D in the measurement box chosen for the
AWS D1.1 rating. This is setup in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab. An example
of this is seen in the following illustration.

11.4.3.3

Documentation

By pressing [SAVE] on the EPOCH XT, you can now save the data for this
discontinuity in the EPOCH XT data logger. At the bottom of an ID saved with AWS
D1.1 active, you see the values for A, B, C, and D. This data is viewable in the File
Review window.

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While using the EPOCH XT and the AWS D1.1 Software Option, it is your
responsibility to take into account any inspection conditions that could cause
variation in the displayed Indication Rating (D value). It is your responsibility to
interpret the meaning of echo indications and reported D values corresponding to
these indications properly.

11.5
11.5.1

B-scan
Description

The B-scan software option allows you to generate an easy to understand cross
sectional profile of test material. This view is used to verify acquired thickness
measurements, and also to provide a visual reference showing areas on the part with
critical thickness values.
A scanner equipped with an internal encoder mechanism maps the thinning areas by
providing transducer-location information (distance traveled) along with the
thickness reading. This feature increases the functional value of the B-scan as relative
location in the material is directly correlated with the depth at that location.
The B-scan has three separate operating modes:

Bidirectional Encoded Mode: this mode requires the use of a bidirectional


encoder that keeps track of location information as data is collected in both
forward and backward directions.

Unidirectional Encoded Mode: this mode requires the use of a bidirectional or


unidirectional encoder that keeps track of location information as data is collected
in the forward direction only.

Manual Mode: this mode does not keep track of location information and does
not require the use of an encoder. This mode provides a continuous scan of
thickness data with no correlation to its location along the scan. Readings are
timed from 1 up to 1000 readings per second (controlled by the PRF setting) and
are not related to transducer movement.

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EPOCH XTs must be equipped with the hardware I/O port to accept the encoder cable
used for B-scans. The hardware I/O port is located to the right of the BNC or LEMO 01
transducer connectors. If required, installation of this port must be performed at an
authorized Olympus Service Center.

11.5.2

Choosing an Encoder and Accessories

Olympus offers a handheld portable scanner with an internal encoder (EP4/ENC) for
use with the B-scan option, which is well suited for a variety of applications. The
scanner and general B-scan package (EPXT-BSCAN-KIT-XX) are available with the
following optional accessories:

Magnetic Wheels (EP4/MW)

Extension Pole Bracket (EP4/EPB)

Extended Probe Holder Wear Cap (EP4/EWC)

Transducer and Encoder Cables of various lengths (XCMD-316-YB,


EPXT-ENC-CBL-*Z)

X = connector type indicating BNC or large LEMO. Replace X in the part number
with B to indicate a BNC connector, or L1 to indicate a large LEMO connector.
Y = transducer cable length indicating 10 ft., 25 ft., 50 ft., or 100 ft. Replace Y in the
part number with the desired cable length.
*Z = encoder cable length indicating 10 ft., 25 ft., 50 ft., or 100 ft. Replace Z in the part
number with the desired cable length.
You can use other encoders that have a standard TTL quadrature position encoder
and a four-conductor connection with a single +5 V power supply. You can also use a
remote control scanner to provide a more automated inspection.

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11.5.3

Getting Started

To configure the EPOCH XT and encoder cart


1.

Secure the selected transducer, with attached cable, in the encoder carts probe
holder using the two tightening screws.

2.

Connect the transducer cable into the BNC or LEMO connector on the
EPOCH XT. This cable provides the ultrasonic information from the transducer to
the EPOCH XT.

3.

Attach the LEMO connector of the encoder cable into the encoder cart. The 16-pin
connector plugs into the 16 pin hardware I/O port on the top of the EPOCH XT.

4.

You can also connect a couplant feed to the couplant feed port on the scanner,
which allows for continuous transducer coupling when used with a water pump
or pressurized couplant dispenser.

11.5.4

Performing A-Scan Calibration and Setup

Before entering the B-scan mode, it is extremely important that the EPOCH XT is
calibrated and set up properly in the A-scan screen.

To perform an A-scan calibration and setup


1.

Calibrate the EPOCH XT for the appropriate transducer and material. (See
chapter 9 on page 91 for proper calibration procedures.)

2.

Position Gate 1 so that the start of the gate is positioned prior to the minimum
expected thickness or at zero. NOTE: do not capture the initial pulse or interface
echo in Gate 1.

3.

Position the end of Gate 1 after the maximum expected reading. NOTE: an echo
must break the gate for the EPOCH XT to detect it and display a B-scan data
point.

Upon entering the B-scan mode, the Gate Start and Gate End positions determine the
vertical scale of the B-scan. For the best resolution, position the gate as near as
possible near the minimum and maximum values expected. Use a slight buffer to
include potential unexpected values. When entering the B-scan mode, the EPOCH XT
automatically zooms the gate and expands the range until the gate represents a full
screen.

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11.5.5

Selecting a B-Scan Mode

To select a B-scan mode


1.

Press [MEAS SETUP] to enter the Measurement Setup menu.

2.

Under the Options tab, scroll down to highlight B-Scan, and then press the
[ENTER] key.

3.

Press [F2] (On) to activate the B-scan option. Scroll down to select one of the
following Encoder Modes: Manual, Unidirectional, or Bidirectional.

Figure 11-1 Selecting B-scan from the Options menu

11.5.5.1

Setting Up the Manual Mode

To set up the Manual mode


1.

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Select the Manual B-scan option as the Encoder Mode.

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Figure 11-2 Selecting the Manual Update Rate Option

2.

Press [ENTER] to select the Direction. This determines the direction that the data
is updated on the EPOCH XT screen. The EPOCH XT allows the Manual Scan to
run from either left to right or right to left (choosing 'Left to Right' causes the data
to start at the left of the screen and scroll to the right).

3.

Set the Stop on Loss of Signal (LOS) condition. In doing so, the scan stops if there
is no signal in the gate. When a signal reappears the instrument inserts a blank
line in the scan. Press [F1] for (Off) or [F2] for (On).

4.

Press [ENTER] to access the A-scan storage settings. See section 11.5.6 on
page 193 for further information.

5.

Press [MEAS|RESET] to return to the live screen to begin a B-scan inspection.

11.5.5.2

Setting Up the Unidirectional Mode

To setup the Unidirectional mode


1.

Select the Unidirectional B-scan option for Encoder Mode. (See section 11.5.5 on
page 188.)

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Figure 11-3 Selecting the Unidirectional Encoder Pulses Option

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2.

Press [ENTER] to select the Direction. This determines the direction that the data
is updated on the EPOCH XT screen. The EPOCH XT allows the Unidirectional
Scan to run from either left to right or right to left (choosing 'Left to Right' causes
the data to start at the left of the screen and scroll to the right.)

3.

Press the down arrow to set the Encoder Pulses. The Encoder Pulses setting
defaults to the factory setting of 50 pulses/in. (2 pulses/mm), which matches the
specification of the scanner included with the Olympus B-scan kit. If you are
using the Olympus EP4/ENC encoder car, do NOT change this value. (See note in
the Bidirectional setup screen if it is necessary to change this selection.)

4.

Press the down arrow to set the Take Reading Every parameter. This value is the
resolution of the B-scan. (See note in the Bidirectional setup screen for entering
the proper resolution.)

5.

Press the down arrow to set the Start Co-ordinate for the B-scan. Use the slewing
keys to enter the appropriate value for the starting point of your inspection. This
value represents the first Distance Traveled (DT) value of the B-scan. For example,
if you are beginning the scan at the end of a pipe or plate, you might want to enter
a value of zero. If you are beginning a scan that is at a certain distance from the
end of the test piece, enter an appropriate value for that position. You might want
to mark the location on your material to indicate where you started the inspection
for later reference.

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6.

Press [ENTER] to access the A-scan storage settings. See section 11.5.6 on
page 193 for further information.

7.

Press [MEAS|RESET] to return to the live screen to begin a B-scan inspection.

11.5.5.3

Setting Up the Bidirectional Mode

To set up the Bidirectional mode


1.

Select the Bidirectional B-scan option for Encoder Mode. (See section 11.5.5 on
page 188.)

Figure 11-4 Select Directional Encoder Pulses Option

2.

Press the down arrow to set the Encoder Pulses. The Encoder Pulses setting
defaults to the factory setting of 50 pulses/in. (2 pulses/mm), which matches the
specification of the scanner included with the Olympus B-scan kit. If you are
using the Olympus EP4/ENC encoder car, do NOT change this value. (See note
below if it is necessary to change this selection.)

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If you are using a different scanner with a different optical encoder specification, you
should adjust the Encoder Pulses value accordingly. Adjust the pulses/in. value using
the slewing keys to select the correct number of encoder pulses per inch (millimeters)
specific to the encoder that you are using. Consult the encoder specification to
determine the appropriate encoder pulses value for your encoder.
3.

Press the down arrow to set the Take Reading Every parameter. This value is the
resolution of the B-scan. Use the slewing keys to enter the desired resolution for
the B-scan based on the encoder resolution in pulses per in./mm. (See below for
entering the proper resolution.)

The desired B-scan resolution is limited to increments of the encoder resolution that
you are using. For example, if the encoder resolution is 50 pulses/in. (2 pulses/mm),
then the best resolution possible is 0.020 in. (0.5 mm). Each pulse from the encoder is
capable of taking readings in increments of 0.020 in. (0.5 mm). It is possible to take a
reading every other pulse, every third pulse, every fourth pulse, etc. Therefore, the
resolution can be changed in increments as follows:
0.020 in. (0.5 mm) - Take reading every 1 pulse
0.040 in. (1.0 mm) - Take reading every 2 pulses
0.060 in. (1.5 mm) - Take reading every 3 pulses
0.080 in. (2.0 mm) - Take reading every 4 pulses
0.100 in. (2.5 mm) - Take reading every 5 pulses, etc.

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4.

Press the down arrow to set the Start Co-ordinate for the B-scan. Use the slewing
keys to enter the appropriate value for the starting point of your inspection. This
value represents the first Distance Traveled (DT) value of the B-scan. For example,
if you are beginning the scan at the end of a pipe or plate, you might want to enter
a value of zero. If you are beginning a scan that is a certain distance from the end
of the test piece, enter an appropriate value for that position. You might want to
mark the location on your material to indicate where you have started the
inspection for later reference.

5.

Press [ENTER] to access the A-scan storage settings. See section 11.5.6 on
page 193 for further information.

6.

Press [MEAS|RESET] to return to the live screen to begin a B-scan inspection.

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11.5.6

A-Scan Storage Settings

The B-scan software can automatically save A-scans that are of interest to you while
performing a B-scan. The EPOCH XT can be set up to save A-scans corresponding to
the minimum depth (thickness reading) in a B-scan, to save A-scans when a
user-defined alarm is triggered during a scan, or to save all A-scans during the B-scan.
Select the A-scan storage mode by pressing the arrow keys. For each of the A-scan
storage modes below (except No Storage) the number of A-scans to be stored must be
selected. The maximum number of A-scans that can be saved is 200. With A-scan
storage active the maximum scan rate (PRF) is limited to 60 meas./s (60 Hz).

11.5.7

Operating the B-Scan Software

Once you have selected the proper settings for your inspection and returned to the
live screen, you are ready to begin your B-scan inspection.
The selected mode is indicated along the left edge of the B-scan. If this is not the
proper mode, return to the B-scan setup screen under the Options tab in the MEAS
SETUP menu. (See section 11.5.5 on page 188.)

Figure 11-5 Viewing the selected mode

You are now ready to begin collecting data. While in the collect mode, the EPOCH XT
function keys [F1] [F4] are set up to perform the following actions:
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[F1] (Start): Start the collection of B-scan data. While the B-scan data is being collected,
the function over the [F1] key changes to Stop. This allows you to stop the data
collection during or at the completion of a B-scan.
[F2] (AScan): View the current live A-scan waveform. This can be done while the
B-scan is running or while the B-scan is stopped. While the A-scan is being viewed,
the function over the [F2] key changes to BScan, allowing you to toggle back to the
B-scan screen.
[F3] (A&BScan): View both the B-scan and the A-scan screens simultaneously in a
split-screen manner. The A-scan appears on the top-half of the screen, and the B-scan
replaces the instrument setup parameters on the bottom-half of the screen.
[F4] (New Scan): Initiate a new scan. A new scan clears any information in the
memory buffer. Be sure to save the B-scan before starting a new scan to avoid data
loss. (See section 10.1 on page 118.) After pressing [F4], you are prompted to verify
that this is the desired course of action.
To begin collecting data, press [F1]. As the scanner is moved, data is collected and
displayed as a cross-sectional image of the test material. The number of data points is
based on the movement of the encoder wheel in increments of the resolution entered
in the setup screen. The Bidirectional mode allows the scanner to move backwards;
B-scan data points are updated accordingly. This is especially useful when verifying
thin-material areas where an alarm condition exists.

Figure 11-6 Viewing a manual B-scan

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While collecting data, the information is temporarily stored in a memory buffer. The
EPOCH XT is capable of storing a maximum of 150,000 B-scan data points (thickness
readings) before the buffer is full. When the buffer becomes full, the scan stops. You
are then prompted to save the scan or start a new one. To prevent the loss of encoded
data, the DT reading flashes as a warning when the buffer is within 500 readings of
being full.

11.5.8

Reviewing Depth and Distance Traveled (DT) Information

It is possible to stop the B-scan and review depth information and correlating
distance-traveled values. At any time during the encoded B-scan, press [F1] to stop
the data collection.
A marker arrow appears in the place of the cursor on the display. Use the left and
right arrow keys to move this marker along the scan.
In Manual mode, the depth recorded at each data point is displayed. In one of the
encoded modes, the thickness reading along with the DT value at that point is shown.
Press [F1] again to restart the scan. The scan resumes at the cursors last position.
Once a B-scan is stopped, you can go back and review the saved B-scan data using the
slewing keys. When an A-scan has been saved for a corresponding B-scan point, the
A-scan is displayed on the A-scan screen (when the B-scan is being reviewed in
split-screen mode).

11.5.9

Operating Minimum Depth Alarm

The EPOCH XT is equipped with a minimum depth alarm, which is triggered


whenever the current thickness reading falls below an operator-defined level. The
minimum depth alarm appears as a cursor on Gate 1 in single-gate mode or on Gate 2
in Echo-to-Echo mode. The alarm level is displayed as a horizontal line across the
B-scan. The alarm is noted by a flashing A on the display and a continuous audible
tone. (See section 7.9.3 on page 82 for further information.)
When an area of signals triggers the minimum depth alarm, the color of the B-scan
changes. The color that the B-scan changes to is dependent on the color scheme and
scan-palette selections. This provides you with an additional alert that the current
thickness readings are below the minimum depth.

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You can only activate or modify the minimum-depth alarm prior to activating the
B-scan software. The minimum depth alarm cannot be manipulated after the B-scan
has been activated.

Figure 11-7 on page 196 shows a split A-scan / B-scan in review mode. Notice that an
automatically saved A-scan appears in the upper-half of the screen because the
minimum depth alarm on Gate 1 was triggered at the A-scans corresponding point in
the B-scan.

Figure 11-7 Viewing a split A-scan / B-scan

11.5.10 Operating Scan Speed Alarm


When acquiring B-scan data in one of the encoded modes, an alarm is triggered if the
scanner is moved too fast for the EPOCH XT to acquire and display data. The
encoders current scan rate (SR) is displayed on the top of the screen in the
measurement locations when operating in the B-scan mode. The scan rate for a B-scan
inspection is limited by the PRF of the scan.

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The maximum scan rate for B-scan inspections is 1000 meas./s (1000 Hz).

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When the Floating Gate option is active, the maximum scan rate and PRF are
limited to 500 meas./s (500 Hz).

With any of the A-scan storage methods active, the maximum scan rate and PRF
are limited to 60 meas./s (60 Hz).

If the encoder is moved too fast and exceeds these values, a scan speed alarm
condition is noted by an audible beep. Encoded Distance Traveled (DT) data is kept in
sync with the scanner, but no thickness data is drawn on the screen. The Bidirectional
mode allows the scanner to move in the opposite direction at a slower speed to
redraw these thickness values.

For fine scan resolution, move the scanner at a slower rate to avoid missing data
points. You can adjust the resolution in the B-scan mode selection screens.

11.5.11 Operating Floating Gate and B-Scan


The Floating Gate software option is included with the purchase of the B-scan
software option in the EPOCH XT. Floating Gate is used to track the peak echo
amplitude at between 6 dB and 14 dB of an echo. By using the floating gate, the
EPOCH XT provides a more consistent and accurate thickness reading particularly
when using the Edge measurement mode.

When Floating Gate software is active during a B-scan, the scan rate (PRF) of the
B-scan is limited to 500 meas./s (500 Hz).

Use this feature in either Peak or Edge measurement modes. In Edge mode, the
floating gate tracks the highest amplitude echo breaking the gate (100 % screen height
or less), but takes the measurement from the left-most echo breaking the gate. In the
Options menu, the Floating Gate is activated as shown in Figure 11-8 on page 198.

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Figure 11-8 Activating / deactivating the floating gate

When Floating Gate is active for Gate 1 or Gate 2, the EPOCH XT displays the selected
gain level under the gate level indicator (depending on the chosen settings). See the
example screenshot below showing the Floating Gate active with Gates 1 and 2 set at
6 dB.

Figure 11-9 Active floating gate with two gates

In order to use the Floating Gate option with a B-scan, the Floating Gate must be set
up and active before the B-scan is activated. (See section 11.6 on page 201.)

In order to review the Depth and Distance Traveled information while Floating Gate
is active in B-scan mode, the gates do not appear on the instrument display when the
B-scan is stopped.

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11.5.12 Operating Echo-to-Echo Detection


The EPOCH XT is capable of acquiring a B-scan inspection while in Echo-to-Echo
detection mode as well as the standard Mode 1 measurement. This functionality
allows you to create cross-sectional images of a single layer within a part while
ignoring another layer such as a paint coating.
To set up the EPOCH XT to generate a B-scan in Echo-to-Echo mode, follow the
instructions on section 7.4 on page 76. Then, simply follow the steps detailed earlier in
this section and be sure to position both gates in order to capture anticipated
waveforms.

11.5.13 Saving B-Scan Data


The EPOCH XT internal data logger has the memory capacity to store individual file
IDs with up to 150,000 B-scan and 200 A-scan readings. B-scan files and
corresponding A-scans can be stored in any file type in the EPOCH XT. The most
common are calibration (CAL) files which are used for storing B-scan setups, and
incremental (INC) files, which are used for most B-scan inspection data storage.
In order to save B-scan calibration or inspection data (and corresponding A-scans) a
file must be created and opened in the instruments data logger. (For details on how to
create and open files, see chapter 10 on page 117.) Once the desired file has been
created and opened, press [SAVE] to save data into the open file. You can save B-scans
in either the Start or Stop mode. In the B-scan mode, there are two choices for saving
data:

Save Screen [F1]: This saves a screenshot of the B-scan along with the instrument
setup. This saved instrument setup can be recalled as a setup if desired.

Save Full [F2]: This saves the entire B-scan along with stored A-scans and the
instrument setup. This can be recalled as a setup if desired.

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Figure 11-10 Saving B-scan data

11.5.14 Viewing and Recalling Stored B-Scans


View stored B-scans, along with corresponding setup parameters, in the Review
screen in the Data Logger menu. The review screen can be accessed by pressing the
[2ND F] then [ID] keys, selecting the desired file in the Open tab, and pressing [F2]
(Contents.) When a Full B-scan has been saved, the instrument displays a compressed
B-scan view in the Review screen. When a B-scan screenshot has been saved, the
instrument displays an uncompressed view of the B-scan in the Review screen.
To recall the B-scan file and scan through the stored data, press [F3] (Recall) from the
Review screen, and then press [MEAS|RESET] to unfreeze the recalled data. Once
the B-scan file is recalled to the live screen, use the slewing keys to move the marker
along the scan to review thickness values. If the scan was done in an encoded mode,
relative Distance Traveled (DT) values correlate to the thickness measurements. Press
[F1] (Start) to re-start the scan at the cursors last position when the scan was saved.

11.5.15 Scan Color Palette


The EPOCH XT has three color scheme options for the B-scan color palette:

200

Solid Color: thickness measurements are shown in a solid color for all thickness
ranges of the B-scan.

Gray Scale: thickness measurements are displayed in a gray scale palette.

Colored: thickness measurements for the B-scan are colored on a gradient scale
from red, for thin measurements, to blue, for thick measurements.
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To select a scan color palette, press [DISPLAY SETUP], and then select the Scan
Palette from the Color tab.

Figure 11-11 Scan palette selection

11.6

Floating Gate

11.6.1

Description

The Floating Gate software option is used to track the peak echo amplitude at a
specified gain level below that amplitude (6 dB to 14 dB in 1 dB increments). The
Floating Gate option can be used in either Peak or Edge measurement modes (see
section 4.8.3 on page 59 for more information regarding the Gate modes). The
Floating Gate option provides a more consistent and accurate thickness reading,
particularly when using the Edge mode. In Edge mode, the Floating Gate tracks the
highest amplitude echo breaking the gate, but reports a digital measurement from the
edge of the first echo breaking the gate.

11.6.2

Option Activation

To activate and set up the Floating Gate software:

Press the [MEAS SETUP] key

Use the arrow keys to highlight the Options tab

Press [ENTER] to enter the Options tab menu


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Use the down arrow to select the FGate option

Figure 11-12 Activating Floating Gate software

Select the desired gate(s) and press [F2] (On) to activate Floating Gate for the
selected gate.

Press the down arrow to select the Level parameter. Select the desired gain level
by using the slewing keys (values range from 6 dB to 14 dB). The gate always
floats at this specified level below the amplitude of the signal within the gate.
When G1 Float or G2 Float is set to Off, that particular gate height can be adjusted
manually in the live screen through the gate level parameter.

Once the desired gate levels have been selected, press the [MEAS/RESET] or
[MEAS SETUP] key to go back to the main screen.

When Floating Gate is active, the gate level display in the parameter section of the
EPOCH XT screen shows the setting for that particular gate. The figures below detail
an example in which Gate 1 is floating at the 6 dB point and Gate 2 at the 12 dB
point.

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Figure 11-13 Gate 1 Floating at 6 dB/Gate 2 Floating at 12 dB

11.6.3

Operating in 6 dB Mode

In 6 dB mode, the desired gate floats at 6 dB below the peak echo amplitude in the
gate. This corresponds to 50 % of the echos maximum height. The screen below
depicts Gate 1 with Floating Gate active in the 6 dB mode. Note that the gate is
exactly at 50 % of the echo peak amplitude (which is at approximately 80 %).

11.6.4

Operating in 12 dB Mode

In 12 dB mode, the desired gate floats at 12 dB below the peak echo amplitude in the
gate. This corresponds to 25 % of the echos maximum height. The screen below
depicts Gate 1 with Floating Gate active in the 12 dB mode. Note that the gate is
exactly at 25 % of the echo peak amplitude (which is at approximately 80 %).

Software Features and Options

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

The Floating Gate option is not valid in RF mode. Also, Floating Gate cannot be
turned on or off while the screen is frozen.

Figure 11-14 Example of 12 dB mode

11.6.5

Using Gate Alarms

Individual gate alarms can be set while the Floating Gate is active. The minimum
depth alarm is most commonly used to monitor for thinning areas in the material
when Floating Gate is active and the Gates are in edge-detection mode.

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11.7
11.7.1

Advanced Filters
Description

The Advanced Filters Option takes advantage of the EPOCH XT's unique digital
receiver design and allows unprecedented filtering flexibility. This option allows you
to choose from 37 different filter settings. Such flexibility is nearly impossible in
instruments that have analog (hardware) filters due to the cost of additional
components and the board space required.
There are several distinct performance advantages that result from this option.
Specific performance improvements include:

Performance improvement with low-frequency probes that are commonly used


for inspection of composites and plastics. Greater sensitivity and reduced
distortion are easily observed.

Improved initial pulse (main bang) recovery with new DC coupled setups
compared to the standard lower frequency band-pass filter settings (0.2 MHz
10 MHz, 1.5 MHz8.5 MHz, etc.).

Optimized broadband response from mid to high frequency transducers.

Use of very low-frequency transducers (50 kHz100 kHz range) for specialized
applications.

The filter selections that are now available in the EPOCH XT are listed below.
Standard Filters - Available in all EPOCH XTs

2.0 MHz21.5 MHz

0.2 MHz10.0 MHz

0.2 MHz1.2 MHz

0.5 MHz4.0 MHz

1.5 MHz8.5 MHz

5.0 MHz15.0 MHz

8.0 MHz26.5 MHz

Advanced Filters - Available only with the Advanced Filters Option - Listed with an
A in front of the frequency range.

A DC MHz1.2 MHz

A DC MHz4.0 MHz

Software Features and Options

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

A DC MHz8.5 MHz

A DC MHz10.0 MHz

A DC MHz15.0 MHz

A DC MHz26.5 MHz

A BYPASS This setting turns off all digital filtering

A BYP_EXTSame as above. Used at extended ranges

A 0.2 MHz4.0 MHz

A 0.2 MHz8.5 MHz

A 0.2 MHz15.0 MHz

A 0.2 MHz26.5 MHz

A 0.2 MHzBYP

A 0.5 MHz8.5 MHz

A 0.5 MHz10.0 MHz

A 0.5 MHz15.0 MHz

A 0.5 MHz26.5 MHz

A 0.5 MHzBYP

A 1.0 MHz3.5 MHz

A 1.5 MHz10.0 MHz

A 1.5 MHz15.0 MHz

A 1.5 MHz26.5 MHz

A 1.5 MHzBYP

A 2.5 MHz7.0 MHz

A 5.0 MHz10.0 MHz

A 5.0 MHz26.5 MHz

A 5.0 MHzBYP

A 6.0 MHz12.0 MHz

A 8.0 MHz15.0 MHz

A 8.0 MHzBYP

11.7.2

Option Activation

A new setup option has been created to allow you to setup the Advanced Filters in the
EPOCH XT. You can go to this tab to view all of the filters available in the instrument.

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To view this new Filters tab

Press the [MEAS SETUP] key

Use the arrow keys to highlight the Options tab

Press [ENTER] to enter the Options tab menu

Use the down arrow to select the Filters option

Press [ENTER] to enter the option

Use the down arrow key to scroll through the list of filters.

The first 7 selections listed are the standard EPOCH XT filters, the remaining 30
selections come with the Advanced Filters Option.

The EPOCH XT has been designed to meet all of the requirements of EN12668-1.
EN12668-1 contains many requirements that limit the bandwidth of a compliant flaw
detector. The seven standard filters on the EPOCH XT have been tested and are fully
compliant with the requirements of EN12668-1.
The remaining 30 Advanced Filter sets have not, and will not be tested according to
EN12668-1. Because of the stringent requirements of EN12668-1, some of the more
broadband filter settings in the Advanced Filter set are unlikely to pass the EN12668-1
test requirements.
If an inspection requires absolute compliance with EN12668-1, then the Advanced
Filters option should not be purchased or activated. Whenever an Advanced Filter is
in use consider that the EPOCH XT might not be compliant with EN12668-1.

Upon activation, all of the available filters are listed as Enabled. Enabled filters
are accessible through the live, main screen of the EPOCH XT by pressing the
[RECEIVER] key and highlighting the Filters group. All Enabled filters appear
over the F function keys for review and activation.
Since most operators do not need to use all of the available filters for their
application(s) it is possible to turn off the filter sets that are not needed. To disable a
filter:

In the Filters menu in the [MEAS SETUP], highlight the filter to be disabled.

Use the Left or Right Arrow key to change the selection from ENABLED to
DISABLED.

Repeat as necessary to disable or enable other filter sets.

Software Features and Options

207

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure 11-15 Filters activation tab with enabled and disabled filters

11.7.3

Filter Setup Example

In the example below, only the filters for low-frequency transducer applications have
been enabled. All other filters have been disabled. Note that in the live screen, only
the activated filters appear above the F keys for activation. This is an easy way to
customize an instrument to meet the needs of a customer and it is much easier than
scrolling through 37 choices to find the desired filter.

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure 11-16 Filter setup example

Software Features and Options

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210

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Appendix A: Cable Assembly

Cable Assembly

211

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

212

Appendix A

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Appendix B: Sound Velocities

Table 11 on page 213 lists the ultrasonic velocity in a variety of common materials.
This is only a guide. The actual velocity in these materials might vary significantly
due to a variety of causes, such as composition, preferred crystallographic orientation,
porosity, and temperature. For maximum accuracy, establish the sound velocity in a
given material by first testing a sample of the material.

Table 11 Ultrasonic Velocities in a Variety of Common Materials


Material

V (in./s)

V (m/s)

Acrylic resin (Perspex)

0.107

2730

Aluminum

0.249

6320

Beryllium

0.508

12900

Brass, naval

0.174

4430

Copper

0.183

4660

Diamond

0.709

18000

Glycerin

0.076

1920

Inconel

0.229

5820

Iron, Cast (slow)

0.138

3500

Iron, Cast (fast)

0.220

5600

Iron oxide (magnetite)

0.232

5890

Lead

0.085

2160

Sound Velocities

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910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 11 Ultrasonic Velocities in a Variety of Common Materials (continued)


Material

214

V (in./s)

V (m/s)

Lucite

0.106

2680

Molybdenum

0.246

6250

Motor oil (SAE 20/30)

0.069

1740

Nickel, pure

0.222

5630

Polyamide (slow)

0.087

2200

Nylon, fast

0.102

2600

Polyethylene, high density (HDPE)

0.097

2460

Polyethylene, low density (LDPE)

0.082

2080

Polystyrene

0.092

2340

Polyvinylchloride, (PVC, hard)

0.094

2395

Rubber (polybutadiene)

0.063

1610

Silicon

0.379

9620

Silicone

0.058

1485

Steel, 1020

0.232

5890

Steel, 4340

0.230

5850

Steel, 302 austenitic stainless

0.223

5660

Steel, 347 austenitic stainless

0.226

5740

Tin

0.131

3320

Titanium, Ti 150A

0.240

6100

Tungsten

0.204

5180

Water (20 C)

0.0580

1480

Zinc

0.164

4170

Zirconium

0.183

4650

Appendix B

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

References
1.

Folds, D. L. Experimental Determination of Ultrasonic Wave Velocities in


Plastics, Elastomers, and Syntactic Foam as a Function of Temperature. Naval
Research and Development Laboratory. Panama City, Florida, 1971.

2.

Fredericks, J. R. Ultrasonic Engineering. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1965.

3.

Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. Cleveland, Ohio: Chemical Rubber Co., 1963.

4.

Mason, W. P. Physical Acoustics and the Properties of Solids. New York: D. Van
Nostrand Co., 1958.

5.

Papadakis, E. P. Panametrics - unpublished notes, 1972.

Sound Velocities

215

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

216

Appendix B

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Appendix C: Glossary

Table 12 Glossary
Term

Definition

Acoustic
Impedance

A material property defined as the product of sound velocity (C)


and the materials density (d).

Acoustic
Interface

The boundary between two media of different acoustic


impedance.

Acoustic Zero

The point on the CRT display that represents the entry surface of
the specimen.

Amplifier

An electronic device that increases the strength of a signal fed


into it by obtaining power from a source other than the input
signal.

Amplitude

Referring to an indication on the CRT screen, the vertical height


of an indication measured from the lowest to the highest point on
the indication. In wave motion, the maximum displacement of the
particles of the material.

Angle Beam
Transducer

A transducer that transmits or receives the acoustic energy at an


angle to the surface to set up shear waves or surface waves in the
part being inspected.

A-scan

Pulse-echo format wherein the CRT display shows the pulse


travel time in the horizontal direction (left to right) representing
the corresponding sound paths. The vertical direction (bottom to
top) displays the maximum value of the acoustic pressure echo
amplitude received by the probe.

Glossary

217

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Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term

218

Definition

Attenuation

The loss in acoustic energy that occurs between any two points of
travel. This loss may be due to absorption, reflection, and other
phenomena.

Attenuation
(M.L.A.)

The loss of sound pressure in a travelling wavefront caused by


the scattering of some of the waves sound pressure by the grain
structure and/or porosity of the medium, and by absorption, a
conversion of sound energy into heat.

Back or backwall echo

The echo received from the side of the specimen opposite the side
to which the transducer is coupled. This echo represents the
thickness of the specimen at that point.

Background
noise

Extraneous signals caused by sources within the ultrasonic


testing system and the material being tested.

Beam index
point

The point on the base of an angle beam probes wedge from


which the sound leaves the wedge and enters the specimen.

Cal block
velocity

Material sound velocity for the calibration block.

Couplant

A material (usually a liquid or gel) used between the transducer


and the test specimen to eliminate air from this space and thus
facilitate the passage of sound waves into and out of the
specimen.

Critical defect

Either the largest tolerable defect or the smallest intolerable


defect. The critical defect size is usually given by a specification
or code.

Cross talk

An unwanted condition affecting dual element transducers in


which acoustic energy travels from the transmitting crystal to the
receiving crystal by routes other than the intended path through
the material.

Appendix C

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term
Damping
(control)

Definition
A variable resistance across the pulser circuit output which
shapes the excitation pulse. Typically it is used to change pulse
characteristics to optimize either penetration (low damping) or
near surface resolution (high damping).
Note: High damping = Low damping ohms (50 )
Low damping = High damping ohms (400 )

Damping
material

Any gel, rubber-like substance, or other material which, when


used in the transducer, results in a shorter ringing time of the
piezoelectric crystal.

Decibel (dB)

A unit which compares levels of power. Two power levels P1 and


P
P1

P2, are said to differ by n decibels when: n = 10 log10 -----2-


This unit is often used to express sound intensities. In this case,
P2 is the intensity of the sound under consideration and P1 is the
intensity of some reference level.
In the case of the displayed voltages on a cathode ray tube screen,
the relationship becomes:
V
n = 20 log10 -----2-
V1

Delay control

Subcircuit of the sweep generator that permits a variably


adjustable time period from the sending of the trigger pulse to the
start of the sweep across the CRT.

Detectability

The ability of a test system (instrument and transducer) to detect


or see a given size reflector. This is also known as sensitivity.

Distance
amplitude
correction
(DAC)

A method of flaw evaluation that uses a test block with a known


size reflector at varying known distances from the transducer.
This allows you to plot a curve on the CRT screen that represents
the amplitude of that size reflector throughout a given distance
range. This curve compensates for the loss of energy due to beam
spreading and attenuation.

Dual element
probe

A probe containing two piezoelectric elements, one which


transmits and one which receives.
Glossary

219

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term

Definition

Dynamic range

The ratio of maximum to minimum reflective areas that can be


distinguished on the cathode ray tube (usually based on decibel
ratios).

Electronic zero

The point in time when the pulser fires the initial pulse to the
transducer and the point on the cathode ray tube screen where
the electron beam leaves the baseline due to the initial pulse
signal coming from the transmitter.

First critical
angle

The minimum incident angle in the first medium at which the


refracted longitudinal wave is eliminated from the test specimen.

Flaw

A discontinuity that may be undesirable but does not necessarily


call for rejection.

Frequency

The number of complete cycles undergone or produced by an


oscillating body in one second.

Gain

Used in electronics with reference to an increase in signal power;


usually expressed as the ratio of the output power (for example,
of an amplifier) to the input power in decibels.

Gain (control)

Selects the amount of calibrated gain (dB) available within the


instrument. Usually consists of a coarse gain control (additions at
20 dB increments), and a fine gain (additions at 1 dB or 2 dB
increments).

Gate

An electronic baseline display used to electronically monitor


portions of the displayed range with reference to distance or
amplitude.

Hertz (Hz)

The derived unit of frequency defined as the frequency of a


periodic phenomenon of which the period is one second; equal to
one cycle per second.
Symbol Hz
1 kilohertz (kHz) = 103 cycles per second
1 megahertz (MHz) = 106 cycles per second.

Horizontal A

220

Appendix C

The smaller length (if rectangular) of the actual crystal. The


software computes the affective length automatically.

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term
Immersion
testing

Definition
A test method, useful for testing irregularly shaped parts, in
which the part to be tested is immersed in water (or other liquid)
so that the liquid acts as a couplant. The search unit is also
immersed in the liquid, but not in contact with the part being
tested.

Incidence, angle The angle between a sound beam striking an acoustic interface
of
and the normal (that is, perpendicular) to the surface at that
point. Usually designated by the Greek symbol (alpha).
Indication

The signal displayed on the screen signifying the presence of a


sound wave reflector in the part being tested.

Indication
(defect) level

The number of decibels of calibrated gain which must be set on


the instrument to bring the indication (defect) echo signal to peak
at the reference line on the screen.

Initial pulse (IP)

The pulse of electrical energy sent by the pulser to the transducer.

Leg

In angle beam testing, the path the shear wave travels in a straight
line before being reflected by the opposite surface of the material
being tested.

Linearity,
vertical, or
amplitude

The characteristics of an ultrasonic test system indicating its


ability to respond in a proportional manner to a range of echo
amplitudes produced by specified reflectors.

Linearity,
horizontal, or
distance

The characteristics of an ultrasonic test system indicating its


ability to respond in a proportional manner to a range of echo
signals, produced by specified reflectors, variable in time, usually
a series of multiple back reflections.

Longitudinal
wave

Mode of wave propagation characterized by particle movement


parallel to the direction of wave travel.

Main bang

Term used to describe the initial pulse voltage.

Mode
conversion

Changing a portion of a sound beams energy into a wave of a


different mode due to refraction at incident angles other than
zero degrees. In NDT, this usually involves conversion of
longitudinal waves into shear waves or surface waves.

Glossary

221

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term

222

Definition

Peaking up

Maximizing the height of any indication displayed on the CRT


screen by positioning the main axis of the sound beam directly
over the reflector.

Penetration

The ability of the test system to overcome material loss


attenuation, that is, the ability of the sound beam to bypass small
reflectors such as grain boundaries and porosity in the specimen.

Piezoelectric
elements

A family of materials (such as lead metaniobate, quartz, lithium


sulfate) that possess the characteristic ability to produce: a)
voltage differential across their faces when deformed by an
externally applied mechanical force, and b) change in their own
physical configuration (dimensions) when an external voltage is
applied to them.

Probe

Another name for transducer or search unit.

Pulse repetition
rate or pulse
repetition
frequency

The frequency with which the clock circuit sends its trigger
pulses to the sweep generator and the transmitter, usually quoted
in terms of pulses per second (pps).

Range

The distance represented by the entire horizontal CRT screen


display.

Receiver

That circuit of a flaw detector that receives both the initial pulse
voltage from the transmitter and the returning echoes (as
voltages) from the transducer. By passing these incoming signals
through certain subcircuits, the signals are rectified, filtered, and
amplified with the results send to the screen for display.

Reference echo

The echo from a reference reflector.

Reference level

The number of decibels of calibrated gain which must be set on


the instrument to bring the reference reflector signal to peak at
the reference line on the screen.

Reference line

A predetermined horizontal line (usually dictated by


specifications) on the screen representing some percentage of
total screen height, at which reference echoes and indication
echoes are compared.

Appendix C

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term
Reference
reflector

Definition
A reflector of known size (geometry) at a known distance, such as
a flat-bottom hole.

Refraction, angle The angle of sound reflection in the wedge which is equal to the
of
angle of incidence (also in the wedge.) The angle of reflectance is
measured from the normal to the reflected sound beam.
Registration

The minimum detectable flaw size.

Reject (control)

Also known as suppression, it limits the input sensitivity of the


amplifier in the receiver. Grass or scattering noise can be
reduced or eliminated from the screen by its use. On most analog
instruments it also destroys the vertical linearity relationship
between echo heights.

Resolution

The ability of the test system (instrument and transducer) to


distinguish reflectors at slightly different depths.

Scanning level

The number of dBs of calibrated gain above the reference level


added to insure seeing potentially significant reflectors at the end
of the V-path in a weld inspection.

Second critical
angle

The minimum incident angle in the first medium at which the


refracted shear wave leaves the body of the test specimen.

Sensitivity

The ability of the test system (instrument and transducer) to


detect a given size reflector at a given distance.

Signal-to-noise
ratio

The ratio of amplitudes and indications from the smallest defect


considered significant and those caused by random factors, such
as grain scattering or instrument noise.

Single element
probe

A probe containing only one piezoelectric element, which is used


to both transmit and receive sound.

Skip-distance

In angle beam testing, the surface distance, which represents one


V-path of sound in the material.

Sound beam

The characteristic shape of the ultrasonic wave sent into the


material.

Glossary

223

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term

Definition

Sound path
distance

The distance from the transducer beam index point to the


reflector located in the specimen, measured along the actual path
that the sound travels. Sometimes referred to as angular distance
in angle beam testing.

Straight beam
probe (normal
beam probe)

A probe which transmits the sound into the material


perpendicular to the entry surface.

Surface wave

Mode of wave propagation characterized by an elliptical


movement of the particles (molecules) on the surface of the
specimen as the wavefront moves forward, this movement
penetrating the specimen to a depth of one wavelength.

Through
transmission

A test method in which the vibrations emitted by one search unit


are directed toward, and received by, another search unit. The
ratio between quantity of vibration sent and received is a measure
of the integrity, or quality of the material being tested.

Time varied gain Circuit that automatically adjusts gain so that the echo amplitude
(TVG)
of a given size reflector is displayed at a constant screen height
regardless of the distance to that given size reflector.

224

Transducer

A device that transforms one form of energy into another.

Transmitter

Circuit of the flaw detector that sends the initial pulse voltage to
both the transducer and receiver.

Ultrasonic

Of or relating to frequencies above the human audible range; for


example: above 20,000 cycles/s (Hertz).

Ultrasonics

Study of pressure waves which are of the same nature as sound


waves, but which have frequencies above the human audible
limit, for example: above 20,000 cycles/s (Hertz).

V-path

The angular distance sound travels, measured from the top


surface of the material to the bottom, and reflecting back up to the
top surface.

Vertical B

The larger length (if rectangular) of the actual crystal. The


software computes the affective length automatically.

Appendix C

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 12 Glossary (continued)


Term
Wavelength

Definition
The distance between like points on successive wavefronts; for
example: the distance between any two successive particles of the
oscillating medium that are in the same phase. It is denoted by
the Greek letter (lambda).

Glossary

225

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

226

Appendix C

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Appendix D: EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical


Specifications

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Instrument
Size

in.

10.91
7.35 2.79
4.5

Weight

w/battery

lb

Storage temp.

w/battery

20

60

wo/battery

40

70

Operating temp. w/battery

30

50

Warmup period

@25 C

min.

Power supplies

Battery
(main)

30

External
power

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

227

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Acceptance
criteria

Units

Min

Typical

Max

10.8

12

NiMH
battery

10

12

14

6 C pack
alkaline
battery

9.5

6 C pack
NiMH
battery

7.2

8.4

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Symbol

Technical
specification

Instrument (cont.)
Voltage range
for battery
operation

Li-ion battery

Voltage range
with external
power supply

23.5

24

24.5

Power
consumption

11

Environmental
protection

IP67

Shock
resistivity

Tests to be
performed

TBD

Vibration

Tests to be
performed

TBD

Battery Operating Time


Li-ion battery
(Smart)

hour

NiMH

hour

6 C-cell
alkaline

hour

6 C-cell
NiMH

hour

2.3

Stability after
warmup time

228

9.5

10

10.5

After 30 min. 9.3.2

Amplitude

<|2|

0.5

0.5

|1|

Time-of-Flight

<|1|

0.02

0.02

0.05

|5|

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Battery Operating Time (cont.)


Stability against
temperature
variation

8.2

<|5|

%/10 C

0.5

|2.5|

8.2

<|1|

%/10 C

0.002

0.05

0.03

|5|

<|2|

0.5

0.5

0.5

|1|

<|1|

0.002

0.002

0.05

|0/5|

Stability against Amplitude


9.3.4
voltage
variation
Time of flight 9.3.4
Low battery
warning

No warning
w/C-cell
batteries

yes

Type of Sockets
Probe
connection

BNC/
LEMO

I/O interface

USB
client/host

Alarm outputs

16-pin
LEMO
connector

External power
supply

Minipower
jack

Switchcraft
712A

Case

VALOX

Plastic

Documentation

Technical
reference
manual

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

229

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Transmitter
Shape

Square wave
pulse

Frequency band

230

MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz

10

MHz

12.5

MHz

20

Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure D-1

(F=1.0 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure D-2

Energy=475 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure D-3

Energy=475 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure D-4

Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure D-5

(F=2.0 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure D-6

Energy=475 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure D-7

Energy=475 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure D-8

Appendix D

Max

Technical
specification

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Transmitter (cont.)
Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure D-9

(F=4.0 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-10

Energy=475 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-11

Energy=
475 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-12

Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-13

(F=5.0 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-14

Energy=475 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-15

Energy=475 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-16

Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-17

(F=10.0 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-18

Energy=475 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-19

Energy=475 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-20

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

231

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Transmitter (cont.)
Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-21

(F=12.5 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-22

Energy=300 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-23

Energy=300 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-24

Spectrum for
square

Energy=50 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-25

(F=20.0 MHz)

Energy=50 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-26

Energy=300 V;
Damp=50

8.3.4

Figure
D-27

Energy=300 V;
Damp=400

8.3.4

Figure
D-28

Damping

232

Appendix D

50

63

150

400

Max

Technical
specification

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Transmitter (cont.)
Energy

Pulse repetition
frequency

Pulse repetition
frequency in
manual mode

Operating
modes

8.3.2

50

100

150

200

300

400

475

Hz

10

Optimum

1000

Range<8 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

999.9

1000

1000.1

1000

Range
<200 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

529.9

540

540.1

540

Range
<500 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

259.9

260

260.1

260

Range
<1000 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

139.9

140

140.1

140

Range
<2000 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

69.9

70

70.1

70

Range
<3000 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

39.9

40

40.1

40

Range
<4000 s

8.3.2

20 %TS

Hz

29.9

30

30.1

30

Pulse-echo
test mode
Dual test
mode
Through test
mode

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

233

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

275

250

225

25010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

275

250

225

25010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

EN12668-1

Characteristics of transmitter pulse


Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

234

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Appendix D

10

<25

15

<25

<25

<25

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

225

250

275

25010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

225

250

275

25010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

450

495

550

50010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

EN12668-1

Characteristics of transmitter Pulse (cont.)


Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
1 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

10

<25

18

<25

10

<25

<25

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

235

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

270

295

330

30010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

270

295

330

30010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

EN12668-1

Characteristics of transmitter Pulse (cont.)


Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

236

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
10 Hz

Appendix D

12

<25

15

<25

10

<25

<25

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

270

295

330

30010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

270

295

330

30010 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

9.4.2

10 %TS

| V50|

29

32

35

3210 %

9.4.2

<maxTS

tr

ns

9.4.2

10 %TS

td

ns

45

50

55

5010 %

8.3.3

20 %TS

Z0

24

30

36

3020 %

EN12668-1

Characteristics of transmitter Pulse (cont.)


Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Pulse voltage
Pulse rise time
Pulse duration
Effective output
impedance

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

Damping =
50 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
475 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

Damping =
400 ;
energy=
50 V;
freq=
10 MHz;
PRF=
1000 Hz

15

<25

15

<25

10

<25

<25

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

237

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Receiver
Crosstalk
damping from
transmitter to
receiver
Accuracy of
calibrated
attenuator

8.4.2

>=80

dB

83

90

92

>80

Fine gain
attenuator

9.5.4

<|1|

dB

0.2

0.2

|0.5|

Course gain
attenuator

9.5.4

<|2|

dB

|0.1|

|0.2|

|0.33|

|1.5|

Amplifier frequency
Filter 0.2 MHz1.2 MHz
Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

0.2

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

0.57

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

1.21

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

0.49

0.48

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

1.02

1.0

Filter 0.5 MHz4 MHz

238

Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

0.47

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

2.25

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

4.06

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

1.39

1.4

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

3.59

3.6

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Filter 1.5 MHz8.5 MHz


Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

1.49

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

4.85

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

8.46

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

3.55

3.6

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

6.97

7.0

Filter 5.0 MHz15.0 MHz


Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

4.80

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

9.89

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

14.86

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

8.45

8.45

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

10.00

10

Filter 8.0 MHz26.5 MHz


Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

7.9

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

15

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

26.4

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

14.44

14.6

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

18

18.0

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

239

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Amplifier frequency (cont.)


Filter 2.0 MHz21.5 MHz - Broadband
Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

1.87

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

6.6

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

21.0

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

6.27

6.3

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

19.1

19.5

Filter 2.0 MHz - Axle inspection FR


Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

1.69

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

2.22

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

2.74

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

2.16

2.2.

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

1.05

1.1

Filter 3.0 MHz - Axle inspection FR

240

Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

2.8

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

3.42

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

4.04

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

3.37

3.4

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

1.24

1.2

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Amplifier frequency (cont.)


Filter 5.0 MHz - Axle inspection FR
Lower
frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

4.25

Max frequency

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

5.04

Upper
frequency range

9.5.2

MHz

6.53

Center
frequency range

9.5.2

5 %TS

f0

MHz

5.27

5.2

Bandwidth

9.5.2

10 %TS

MHz

2.28

2.2

106

Dynamic range
Fo= 0.5 MHz

Filter
0.2 MHz1.2 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

120

Fo= 1.4 MHz

Filter
0.5 MHz4.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

117

Fo= 3.6 MHz

Filter
1.5 MHz8.5 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

114

Fo= 8.45 MHz

Filter
5.0 MHz15.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

115

Fo= 14.6 MHz

Filter
8.0 MHz26.5 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

109

Fo= 6.6 MHz

Filter
2.0 MHz21.5 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

109

Fo= 2.2 MHz

Filter
2.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

121

120

Fo= 3.4 MHz

Filter
3.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

121

120

Fo= 5.3 MHz

Filter
5.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

121

120

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

241

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Equivalent input noise

242

Fo= 0.5 MHz

Filter
0.2 MHz1.2 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

38.4

44.1

Fo= 1.4 MHz

Filter
0.5 MHz4.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

25.3

46.6

Fo= 3.6 MHz

Filter
1.5 MHz8.5 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

26.7

49.3

Fo= 8.45 MHz

Filter
5.0 MHz15.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

29.1

50

Fo= 14.6 MHz

Filter
8.0 MHz26.5 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

33.5

56

Fo= 6.6 MHz

Filter
2.0 MHz21.5 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

28.5

49.2

Fo= 2.2 MHz

Filter
2.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

29.5

30.9

Fo= 3.4 MHz

Filter
3.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

27.4

35.6

Fo= 5.3 MHz

Filter
5.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

27.6

33.2

Appendix D

72

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

2.0

Dead time after transmitter pulse


Fo= 0.5 MHz

Filter
0.2 MHz1.2 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.27

1.00

Fo= 1.4 MHz

Filter
0.5 MHz4.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.27

1.00

Fo= 3.6 MHz

Filter
1.5 MHz8.5 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.25

0.27

Fo= 8.45 MHz

Filter
5.0 MHz15.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.28

1.00

Fo= 14.6 MHz

Filter
8.0 MHz26.5 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.54

1.00

Fo= 6.6 MHz

Filter
2.0 MHz21.5 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.28

0.54

Fo= 2.2 MHz

Filter
2.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.02

0.25

Fo= 3.4 MHz

Filter
3.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.04

0.25

Receiver input impedance


Dual mode, Through mode
Rmax@Gain=
Max
Rmax@Gain=
Min
Cmax@Gain=
Max
Cmax@Gain=
Min

|RmaxRmin|/
Rmax=
R_D<=0.1
@F=4 MHz
|CmaxCmin|/
Cmax=
C_D<=0.15
@F=4 MHz

8.4.5

Rmax

461

464

8.4.5

Rmin

461

464

8.4.5

Cmax

pF

104

8.4.5

Cmin

pF

103

R_D<=
0.05

105

C_D<=
0.075

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

243

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

<=0.1

Rmax

152

162

Rmin

152

162

Cmax

pF

128

132

Cmin

pF

128

132

Max

Technical
specification

Receiver input impedance (cont.)


P/E mode
Rmax@Gain=
Max
Rmax@Gain=
Min
Cmax@Gain=
Max
Cmax@Gain=
Min

|RmaxRmin|/
Rmax=
R_PE<=0.1
@F=4 MHz
|CmaxCmin|/
Cmax=
C_PE<=0.15

8.4.5
8.4.5
8.4.5
8.4.5

<=0.15

R_PE<=
0.1

C_PE<=
0.075

Monitor
Number of
gates

Alarm logic

Off
Pos
Neg
Mindep

Alarm warning

Beeper,
alarm
outputs,
visual

Audio

Gate
measurement
points

edge
peak
first peak

Start (gate)

244

Steel
longitudinal
velocity

mm

within
range

12700

Steel
longitudinal
velocity

in.

within
range

500

within
range

4500

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Acceptance
criteria

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Steel
longitudinal
velocity

mm

0.12

within
range

12700

Steel
longitudinal
velocity

in.

0.005

within
range

500

0.04

within
range

4500

mm

1.82

12700

in.

0.072

500

0.63

4500

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Symbol

Technical
specification

Monitor (cont.)
Width (gate)

Zoom

Full-screen
width

Gates with adjustable threshold


Switching
hysteresis with
adjustable
threshold

Filter
2.0 MHz21.5 MHz
for Gate 1,
Gate 2

Hold time for


PRF=
switched output 10 Hz
PRF=
1000 Hz

8.5.3

<|2|

0.25

0.5

<|1.0|

8.5.4

20 %TS

ms

101.25

100

8.5.4

20 %TS

ms

0.9854

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

245

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

8.5.2

N/A

Impedance of
proportional
gate output

8.6.1

N/A

Linearity of
proportional
gate output

8.6.2

N/A

Frequency of
proportional
gate output

8.6.3

N/A

Noise of
proportional
gate output

8.6.4

N/A

Influence of
signal position
within the gate

8.6.5

N/A

Effect of pulse
shape on
proportional
gate output

8.6.6

N/A

Rise, fall, and


hold time

8.6.7

N/A

Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Units

Min

Typical

Monitor (cont.)
Gates with fixed threshold
Switching
hysteresis with
fixed threshold

No analog
output

Display
Type

Active, color
QVGA
Full and
split-screen

Display
dimensions

Resolution

246

Number of
pixels

Appendix D

mm

74.76H x
101.28W

in.

2.943H x
3.987W
320 240

Max

Technical
specification

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Display (cont.)
Backlight

Yes

A-scan display
Linearity of
vertical display

All meas
w/ Gain=
40 dB
Filter
0.2 MHz 1.2 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
0.5 MHz 4.0 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
1.5 MHz 8.5 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
5.0 MHz 15.0 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
8.0 MHz 26.5 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
2.0 MHz 21.5 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
2.0 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
3.0 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
5.0 MHz

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

Filter
2.0 MHz 21.5 MHz
All ranges

9.6

<|1|

0.1

<|0.5|

Amplitude

9.3.3

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|1|

Position

9.3.3

<|1|

%FSW

0.002

<|0.1|

Linearity of
base time

Display jitter

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

247

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Measurement Resolution
Sound path

0.001
999.99

mm

0.01

1000.0
9999.9

mm

0.1

10000.0
12700

mm

0.001
99.999

in.

0.001

100.00
500.00

in.

0.01

0.001
99.999

0.001

100.00
999.99

0.01

1000.0
4500.0

0.1

Temporal resolution
tA1
tA2
Display width
(range)

Display delay

248

Filter
2.0 MHz 21.5 MHz
Steel
longitudinal
velocity

Steel
longitudinal
velocity

Appendix D

8.4.7

ns

130

135

144

8.4.7

ns

150

135

161

mm

1.82

within
range

12700

in.

0.072

within
range

500

0.63

within
range

4500

mm

57.7

within
range

12700

in.

2.272

within
range

500

20

within
range

4500

Technical
specification

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Temporal resolution (cont.)


Automatic
calibration

Zero offset
and velocity

Yes

Material
velocity

Resolution
0.000 in./s

in./s

0.025

0.6

Resolution
1 m/s

m/s

635

15240

Resolution
0.1

grad

10

85

grad

0.1

to calc. sound
reflec. path
data

mm

635

in.

25

with curved
surface
correction
SW option

mm

10

7620

in.

0.4

300

Trigonometry
Angle of
refraction
Increments
Thickness

Pipe outside
diameter

Image processing
Reading to be
displayed

For Gate 1,
Gate 2

Time-of-flight

Yes

Sound path
difference

Yes

Surface
distance

Yes

Depth position

Yes

Amplitude in.
% curve

Yes

Amplitude in
dB

with
reference
gain

Yes

Alarm

For Gate 1,
Gate 2

Yes

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

249

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Image processing
Evaluation
curve (DGS)

Yes

Evaluation
curve
(DAC/TVG)

Yes

Legs
calculations

Change of
grid lines and
leg indicator
for each gate

Yes

Signal Display Mode


A-scan and
envelope

outline
filled

Signal processing
Screen freeze

Yes

Peak memory

Yes

A-scan compare with peak


hold

Yes

Envelope mode

Yes

with peak
memory

Peak hold
Zoom

Yes
A-scan on
full-screen
width

Yes

Status
information

Yes

Dialog
languages

11

Function lock

Yes

Amplitude evaluation
DAC

250

Distance
amp.
correction

Appendix D

8.4.6

<|1.5|

dB

Max

Technical
specification

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

50

Technical
specification

Amplitude evaluation (cont.)


Number of
reference
echoes
Dynamic range

For TVG

Slope max

dB

110

dB/s

600

DGS

Distance gain
sizing

Number of
probes

Straight
beam

ea

13

Angle beam

ea

37

Dual

ea

14

Custom
programable
w/GageView
SW

ea

14

Reference
reflectors

Yes

Back wall

Sidedrilled
hole
K1-IIW
Block Arc
K2-DSC
Block Arc
Flat
Bottom
Hole
Attenuation
correction

Yes

Transfer
correction

Yes

Quadrant
correction
(Delta Vk)

Yes

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

251

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Amplitude evaluation (cont.)


DAC Mode

Yes

Curve

Evaluation
curve

Yes

TVG

Depth
compensation

Yes

Additional
curves

Curve offset

Yes

Data processing
A2D conversion
Sample
frequency

MHz

Storage of data

252

100
Yes

Number of data
sets

Waveforms/
Thickness

Content of
datasets

A-scan +
identifiers +
setup +
readings

10000

Dataset
description

Alphanumeric

String length
(dataset name)

Identifier

20

Description

32

Inspector ID

32

Location notes

32

Date and time

Yes

Appendix D

Max

Technical
specification

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Data processing (cont.)


Measurement results
Sound path
(TOF)

For Gate 1,
Gate 2

Yes

Trigonometrical values

Selectable

Amplitude

Selectable

Function list

For Gate 1,
Gate 2

Yes

Test report

Yes

Interfaces
Beeper

For Gate 1,
Gate 2

Yes

USB host

USB host
port

Yes

USB client

USB client
port

Yes

Gate alarm
outputs
Gate 1, 2, and
combined

Two gates
standard

Yes

Digital interface

Additional Tests for Digital Ultrasonic Instruments


Linearity of
time-base

Filter
8.0 MHz 25.0 MHz
all ranges

8.7.2

<|1.5|

0.1

0.2

|0.5|

8.7.3

<|5|

0.5

1.5

2.5

|5|

Filter
2.0 MHz 21.5 MHz
(Fo=MHz)
Digitization
sampling error

Rect. mode:
RF and
FULL
(all filters)

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

253

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 13 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued)


EPOCH XT Technical Specifications
Description
Test parameter

Condition
and comment

EN12668-1

Acceptance
criteria

Symbol

Units

Min

Typical

Max

Technical
specification

Additional Tests for Digital Ultrasonic Instruments (cont.)


Response time
(does not
depend on the
filter settings by
design)

PRF=
10 Hz

8.7.4

Manuf. spec

ms

100

PRF=
100 Hz

8.7.4

Manuf. spec

ms

10

PRF=
1000 Hz

8.7.4

Manuf. spec

ms

Figures

Figure D-1

254

Appendix D

1/PRF
10 %

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-2

Figure D-3

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

255

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-4

Figure D-5

256

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-6

Figure D-7

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

257

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-8

Figure D-9

258

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-10

Figure D-11

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

259

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-12

Figure D-13

260

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-14

Figure D-15

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

261

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-16

Figure D-17

262

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-18

Figure D-19

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

263

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-20

Figure D-21

264

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-22

Figure D-23

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

265

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-24

Figure D-25

266

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-26

Figure D-27

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

267

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Figure D-28

268

Appendix D

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Appendix E: Parts List

Table 14 EPOCH XT Ultrasonic Flaw Detector


Part

Description

EPXT-BHA-UE-L

EPOCH XT Flaw Detector with BNC connectors, HW I/O,


Analog Out, US power supply, English keypad, and lithiumion battery

EPXT-LH-UE-L

EPOCH XT Flaw Detector with LEMO 00 connectors, HW


I/O, US power supply, English keypad, and lithium-ion
battery

Table 15 Items Included with the EPOCH XT (spares can be purchased)


Part

Description

EPXT-BAT-L

Lithium-ion battery

EPXT-BAT-N

NiMH battery

EP-MCA-X

Mini Charger Adaptor (X= Power Cord Configuration)

EPXT-CELL

C-Cell Battery Foam Block

EPXT-MAN

Instruction Manual

EPXT-TC

Plastic Transport Case

EPXT-PS

Stainless Steel Pipe Stand

EPXT-HS

Hand Strap
Parts List

269

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 16 Instrument Software Options


Part

Description

EPXT-AWS

AWS Weld classification software

EPXT-DGS-AVG

Onboard DGS/AVG option

EPXT-BSCAN

B-scan software option

EPXT-FG

Floating Gate software option

EPXT-FILTERS

Advanced Digital Filters option

Table 17 GageView PRO Interface Program and Accessories


Part

Description

GAGEVIEWPRO-KIT-USB

GageView PRO Interface Program (includes EP4P/C-USB-6


PC interface cable)

GAGEVIEWPRO

GageView PRO Interface Program (software only)

Table 18 Optional Hardware Accessories


Part

270

Description

EP4P/C-USB-6

USB Connection Cable

EPXT-EC

External Stand-Alone Battery Charger

EPXT-RPC

Rubber Protective Carrying Case

EPXT-RPC-W

White Rubber Protective Carrying Case

EPXT-SS

Sunshade

EP4/CH

Chest Harness

EPXT-DP

Screen Protective Cover (Qty. 10)

EPXT-BNC-CAPS

Set of two (2) BNC Connector Caps

Appendix E

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Table 18 Optional Hardware Accessories (continued)


Part

Description

EPXT-LEMO-CAP

Rubber Cap for LEMO Transducer Connectors

EPXT-HWIO-B

HW I/O Option with BNC Connector Plate

EPXT-HWIO-L

HW I/O Option with LEMO Connector Plate

EPXT-C-16HW-6

HW I/O Cable, 6 ft

EPXT-C-16HW-20

HW I/O Cable, 20 ft

EPXT-C-25PRL-6

Parallel Port Cable (25 pin to 25 pin)

EPXT-ENC-CBL-10

B-scan Encoder Cable, 10 ft

EPXT-ENC-CBL-25

B-scan Encoder Cable, 25 ft

EPXT-ENC-CBL-50

B-scan Encoder Cable, 50 ft

EPXT-ENC-CBL-100

B-scan Encoder Cable, 100 ft

EBXT-BSCAN-KIT-10

B-scan kit (Includes EPXT-BSCAN Software, EP4/ENC


Encoder, EPXT-ENC-CBL-10)

EBXT-BSCAN-KIT-25

B-scan kit (Includes EPXT-BSCAN Software, EP4/ENC


Encoder, EPXT-ENC-CBL-25)

EBXT-BSCAN-KIT-50

B-scan kit (Includes EPXT-BSCAN Software, EP4/ENC


Encoder, EPXT-ENC-CBL-50)

EBXT-BSCAN-KIT-100

B-scan kit (Includes EPXT-BSCAN Software, EP4/ENC


Encoder, EPXT-ENC-CBL-100)

Parts List

271

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

272

Appendix E

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

Index

Numerics
12 dB Mode 203
2-D (two-dimensional) 127
2-D EPRI 136
2-D grid 127
2-D grid file 130
2-D matrix grid with custom point 131
3-D (three-dimensional) 133
3-D grid 132
3-D grid structure 133
3-D matrix grid 132
6 dB mode 203

A
A value 184
about the document 14
absolute attenuation 179
access Reject function 71
accessories choice, for encoder 186
activate
peak hold 74
peak memory 73
active file (survey) 139
active/inactive options 151
adding
gain 161, 168, 183
transfer correction 164
adjusting
gain 163
pulser/receiver 63
system sensitivity 63
adjusting system sensitivity 63
adjustment with enter and slewing keys 28

advanced filters 205


improved initial pulse 205
optimized broadband response 205
option 70
performance improvement 205
very low-frequency transducers 205
advanced filters option 205
alarm
condition storage 83
conditions 83
minimum depth 82
alarm, minimum depth 83
alkaline C-Cell batteries 26
amp to curve 159
amplitude resolution 157
amplitude-to-curve 159
analog output 86
angle beam
calibration 106
inspection 77
transducer calibration 106
annual maintenance 22
Appendix A 211
cable assembly 211
Appendix B 213
sound velocities 213
Appendix C 217
glossary 217
Appendix D 227
technical specifications 227
Appendix E 269
parts list 269
A-scan

Index

273

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

calibration 187
display
full-screen 37
split-screen 37
storage settings 193
tab 49
waveform 38
ASME 154
ASME DAC mode 155
ASME-3 154
ASME-3 DAC mode 156
ASTM
E-164 IIW type I block 110
attenuating materials 170
attenuation
calculations 180
measurement 179, 180
audience 15
AUTO80 % 64
with Gate 1 64
with Gate 2 64
AUTOXX%
feature, use of 64
AWS D1.1 180
EPOCH XT 181
software 181

B
back-wall echoes 101
bandwidth 69
battery
C-Cell alkaline use 26
charging the 25
compartment 19
door seal 20
insert new 25
operating time 24
replacing the 25
storage 26
type 20
warning 25
battery-life symbol 24
beam index point location 107
bidirectional
hand strap 19
mode 194

274

Index

bidirectional hand strap 19


BNC connectors 18
boiler applications 134
boiler file 134
B-scan 185, 193
A&BScan 194
AScan 194
color palette 200
mode
bidirectional encoded 185, 191
manual 185, 188
unidirectional encoded 185, 189
New Scan 194
resolution 192
selection 188
software 193
start 194
stored 200
building TVG table 171

C
C value 184
calculating values 184
calibrating
for distance 110
for sensitivity 114
with angle beam transducer 106
with delay-line transducer 97
with dual element transducer 101
with straight-beam transducer 93
calibration 91, 121
angle beam 106
delay line 97
dual element 101
files 121, 199
zero (offset) 91
calibration block
type I 110
type II 110
Canada, ICES-001 compliance 10
caution note
use compatible equipment 6
chapters
adjusting pulser/receiver 63
calibrating EPOCH XT 91
EPOCH XT physical features 17

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

gates 75
input and output features 85
managing basic operations 27
managing instrument data logger 117
managing special waveform functions 71
operating power supply 23
preface 13
software features and options 151
charger, external 26
charger/adaptor 23, 26
part number EP-MCA 23
charging battery 25
chest harness 21
China RoHS 3
color palette 200
B-scan 200
color, tab 48
comments 15
common parameters 28
compartment, battery 19
compatibility with instrument 5
completed DAC curve 164
compliance
EMC directive 9
FCC (USA) 9
ICES-001 (Canada) 10
computer connection compartment 20
copyright ii
corrosion-thickness 117
creation
2-D grid file 130
2-D grid with custom points file 132
3-D grid file 133
boiler file 135
calibration file 121
data files 119
incremental files 123
sequential files 125
sequential with custom points file 126
curve adjustment gain 163
custom
DAC curves option 166
filter sets 70
custom angle beam 174
custom points 126, 131
multiple readings 131

customized curves
activation 166
setup 166

D
D value 183, 184
DAC
curve 153
gain 163
option 165
DAC curve, completed 164
DAC/TVG 153, 154, 161
DACGain 160
damping
control 67
option selection 68
data
creating files 119
file types 120
data logger
menu 119
storage capacity 118
data logger, saved information
alarm conditions 118
A-scan waveform 118
file name 118
flag status 118
gate measurement modes 118
identifier code 118
measurements 118
peak hold 118
peak memory 118
setup parameters 118
software features 118
sound path leg 118
dB to curve 159
dead time 91
delay 38
delay line calibration 97
delay-line transducer calibration 97
DGS diagram 170
DGS/AVG 173
digital filter settings 69
digital filters 69
direct access adjustment 28
direct entry parameter values 29

Index

275

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

discontinuity 183
display
arrangement 37
flags 39
flags and markers 39
protection 21
setup menu 47
window 21
distance amplitude correction (DAC) 153
distance traveled (DT) information 195
document
copyright ii
information 14
part number ii
publishing date ii
revision ii
documentation 184
comments 15
door, battery 19
d-ring clips 21
dual element
calibration 101
transducer calibration 101

E
Echo-to-Echo
mode 195, 199
thickness measurement 77
edge measurement mode 197
edge mode 79
editable parameters 44, 45
editpara, tab 44
EMC directive compliance 9
encoder 186
choice 186
enhancements 13
100 % digital 14
case 13
data logger 14
digital filters 14
EN12668-1 13
high performance
PerfectSquare Pulser Technology 13
measurement-display locations 14
optional hardware I/O port 14
parameter adjustment methods 14

276

Index

USB
client port 14
host port 14
enter key 28
environmental
rating 21, 22
seal 20
EPOCH 4 series 120
EPOCH XT
auto calibration 91
configuration 187
data logger 118
description 13
functions 28
getting started 27
how to operate 23
keypad 27
measurements 54
physical features 17
set up 92
setting parameters 29

F
F keys 28
FCC (USA) compliance 9
file
name 37
review 140
summary 140
file review 140
screen 141
file summary 140
screen 141
filter
settings 69
setup example 208
filters tab 207
first dimension 134
elevation 134
First Peak mode 79
flags and markers 39
flaw detection 117
floating gate option 197, 201
full-screen
A-scan 37
display 37

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

bottom 38
middle 38
top 37
full-screen height (FSH) 64
full-wave mode 70

G
gain 38
add 161
adjustment 163
options 161
gain display 65
GainStep 160
gate
1 75
2 76
alarm
minimum-depth 82
alarms 81
alarms use 204
measurement modes 76
positioning 75
gate alarm
threshold 81
gate level (Lv) 75
gate movement 74
gate start (G1St) 75
gate width (Wd) 75
gates 75
gates, tab 59
general, tab 43
grid 131
grid structure 128

H
half-wave mode 70
hand strap 19
bidirectional 19
hardware input/output (I/O) port 18
harness 21
header titles 146
help 16
high-temperature applications 102

I
ICES-001 (Canada) compliance 10

ID 37
ID key choices 139
find 139
first 139
insert 139
last 139
ID number 131
cannot increment 122
digits increment 122
incremental portion 122
immersion inspection 169
incremental files 122
incrementation
EPRI 2-D grid file 136
standard 2-D grid file 136
input/output port 18
inspection data 140
instrument
compatibility 5
setup menu 42
instrument data logger 117
instrument resets 149
database 149
editable parameters 149
master/database 149
parameters 149
probe library 149
intergranular stress-corrosion cracking (IGSCC)
81
IP (ingress protection) system 21
IP 67 21

J
Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) 165
JIS 154
JIS DAC 165
JIS Z3060 165

K
keypad
Chinese available 29
English 30
international 31
Japanese available 29
keypad functions 29

Index

277

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

L
label, serial number 2
LEMO 00 connector 86
LEMO connectors 18
library 174
library categories 174
angle beam transducers 174
custom straight contact 174
dual transducers 174
straight contact 174
locating
beam index point (BIP) 107
flaws with angle beam transducer 77
low-frequency transducer 208

M
managing basic operations 27
manual mode 195
manual TVG setup 170
markers 39
material types 170
Max amplitude 79
meas, tab 57
measurement
boxes 38
Echo-to-Echo 77
icons 55
setup menu 53
measuring signal amplitude 78
memory 174
menu navigation 41
control groups 42
parameters 42
sublevel tabs 42
tabs 41
Min amplitude 79
minimum depth alarm 82, 83, 195
mode selecting 68
multipart ID numbers 132

N
navigation, menu 41
near-surface resolution 68
NextDAC 160
note, chapter 10
increment 127

278

Index

instrument range incrementation 122


open function 138
overwrite saved information 121
note, chapter 11
accurate calculation 184
AWS D1.1 software option 185
B-scan resolution 192
depth and distance traveled information 198
DGS/AVG curve shape 177
EN12668-1 requirements 207
encoder 186
encoder pulses value 192
flat-bottom-hole size measurement 179
floating gate option 204
floating gate software 197
hardware I/O port 186
minimum-depth alarm 196
scan resolution 197
note, chapter 3
charging/discharging batteries 25
recharge batteries before storing 26
note, chapter 4
measurement setup menu 54
scan palette settings 49
unadjustable parameters 45
note, chapter 5
AUTO80 % 65
one-way sound path 69
results may vary 67
single-shot instrument 66
total system sensitivty 64
note, chapter 6
peak memory 73
reject function 71
note, chapter 8
analog output option 87
battery operating time 86
predictable output voltages 88
note, chapter 9
adjusting pulser receiver 93
auto calibration 96, 101
disregard echo 112
do not use auto calibration 91
first back-wall echo 98
IIW calibration block 110
metric units 93, 97, 102, 107

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

nonlinearity 102
peak memory 108

O
Olympus
office address ii
technical support 10
Olympus IIW type I carbon steel calibration
block 110
onboard files creation 119
onboard software options 151
advanced filters 151
AWS D1.1/D1.5 151
B-scan 151
DGS/AVG 151
floating gate 151
opening data files 137
operating
battery, time 24
power supply 23
option
activation 174, 201, 206
activation and reference correct 154
optional hardware 18
options, tab 61
o-ring, gasket, and membrane seals 20
output, analog 86
owner info, tab 46

P
Panametrics 37DL PLUS 120
parameter
keys 28
values, direct entry 29
peak measurement mode 197
Peak mode 79
physical features 17
pipe counterbore 81
pipestand/handle 18
positioning gate 75
power supply 23
AC line 23
battery 24
power, battery 24
powering up 27
preface 13

PRF 66
printing 146
probe delay 91
procedures, adjusting pulser/receiver
adjusting system sensitivity 63
AUTO80 % Gate 1 64
AUTO80 % Gate 2 64
selecting damping option 68
selecting waveform rectification mode 70
test mode selection 68
procedures, basic operations
setting instrument range 29
setup editable parameters 45
procedures, calibrating EPOCH XT
calibration for distance 110
calibration for sensitivity 114
calibration with angle beam transducer 106
calibration with delay-line transducer 97
calibration with dual element transducer 102
calibration with straight-beam transducer 93
locating BIP 107
setting up before calibration 92
verify refracted angle 109
procedures, gates
echo-to-echo thickness measurement 77
setting threshold alarm Gate 1 82
taking thickness reading Gate 1 76
procedures, input and output features
trigger mode selection 88
turn on VGA output 85
procedures, instrument data logger
creating 2-D grid file 130
creating 2-D grid with custom points file 132
creating 3-D grid file 133
creating a calibration file 121
creating boiler file 135
creating incremental files 123
creating sequential files 125
creating sequential with custom points file
126
procedures, operating power supply
using AC line power 23
procedures, physical features
reversing hand strap 19
procedures, software features and options
activate and set up customized curves 166

Index

279

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

activate TVG table feature 170


adding temporary scanning gain 161
adding transfer correction 164
adjusting gain 163
building TVG table 171
configuring EPOCH XT and encoder cart 187
define TVG feature 170
DGS/AVG option activation 174
performing A-scan calibration 187
performing A-scan setup 187
selecting B-scan mode 188
setting up manual mode 188
setup bidirectional mode 191
setup unidirectional mode 189
procedures, special waveform functions
access Reject function 71
activate peak hold 74
activate peak memory 73
product description 13
pulse
energy 67
repetition frequency (PRF) 66
pulser
frequency selection 67
settings 65

Q
quick recall function 121
quick-release buttons 19

R
range 38
rapid parameter adjustment 29
recall setup function 144
recalling setup 143
receiver settings 69
rectification modes 70
REF B value 183
reference correction 155
reference gain 65, 164
reflector type 175
angle beam probes 175
flat-bottom hole 175
K1-IIW block arc 175
K2-DSC block arc 175
side-drilled hole 175

280

Index

dual probes 175


back wall 175
side-drilled hole 175
straight beam probes 175
back wall 175
side-drilled hole 175
refracted angle 109
relative attenuation 179
replacing battery 25
report header setup 145
reports 145
reset 149
reversing hand strap 19
revision history 15
RF (unrectified) mode 70
RoHS symbol 3
rubber protective case 21

S
safety
installation category 8
instrument class 8
signal words 7
symbols 6
save full 199
save screen 199
saving
A-scan 193
B-scan data 199
data 139
scan color palette
colored 200
gray scale 200
solid color 200
scan speed alarm 196
scanning gain 65
adding 168
seals 20
second dimension 134
tube number 134
sensitivity calibration 114
sequential file 124
with Custom Points 125
serial number
label 2
service or repair 16

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

service, repair 16
setting
instrument range 29
reference gain 65
scanning gain 65
threshold alarm Gate 1 82
setup
editable parameters 45
recalling 143
signal amplitude 78
signal-to-noise ratio 69
slewing keys 28
software features and options 151
software options 152
sound path 78
leg indicator 78
special waveform functions 71
split A-scan / B-scan 196
split-screen 37
display 38
feature 92
split-screen display 38
standalone battery charger 25
optional 25
part number EPXT-EC 25
standard filters 205
status, tab 46
stored B-scan 200
straight-beam transducer calibration 93
summarizing keypad functions 29
support information 10
symbol
RoHS 3
WEEE 2
system
gain 65
sensitivity, adjusting 63

T
tab
A-scan 49
color 48
editpara 44
filters 207
gates 59
general 43

meas 57
open 137
options 61
owner info 46
status 46
technical
help 16
specifications 227
support 10
test block 93
test modes
dual 68
pulse-echo 68
through 68
thickness reading
gate 1 76
gate 2 76
third dimension 134
custom point 134
tick mark
appearance 82
time-of-flight 80
mode operation 80
time-varied gain (TVG) setup 153
tip
damping setting 68
exit key 43, 48, 54
peak memory 109, 114
trademark disclaimer ii
training courses 15
transducer
connections 17
connectors 17
library 174
transfer correction 164
trigger
mode 88
selection
external 89
internal 89
single 89
trigger parameter 89
trigger syncing capabilities 88
TVG
gain 163
setup 153

Index

281

910-264-EN, Rev. G, June 2011

table option 169


table setup 170
TVGView 159

U
U.S. Air Force IIW type II block 110
ultrasonic attenuation 179
ultrasonic flaw detector 13
units 37
USA FCC compliance 9
USB port 20
use of
AC line power 23
AUTOXX% 64
C-Cell alkaline batteries 26
zoom feature 81
using a 3-D grid 133
using a grid 128

V
velocity 38
verifying refracted angle 109
VGA output 85
view new filters tab 207

282

Index

W
warning
batteries 25
warnings
electrical 9
general 8
warranty information 10
waveform
functions
Display Freeze 74
Peak Memory 72
Reject 71
rectification 70
selection 70
waveform functions
Peak Hold 73
WEEE directive 2
weld root 81
wide temperature range 102
wrap-around interference 66

Z
zoom 81
feature 81

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