Quick Start

Guide
Conventional UT
Phased Array

TOFD

Table of Contents
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
0

1
1
1
2
1
3
1
4

1
5

Introduction to your new

device ........................................................................................................................
Inserting the battery and charging it for the first
time ......................................................................................
Booting the
device ................................................................................................................................
..............
Connecting the probes and USB memory
stick ..................................................................................................
Load an existing
configuration ....................................................................................................................
.......
Create a
configuration ..................................................................................................................
....................
Starting data
acquisition ......................................................................................................................
.............
Understanding what you look at (for conventional
UT) ...................................................................................
Navigatingthroughmenus and
views ................................................................................................................
Keypad ............................................................................................................................
..................................
Keypad definition
table .......................................................................................................................
10.1
...
Adjusting
gain ................................................................................................................................
...................
Automatic 80% gain
adjustment .....................................................................................................................
.
Calibration wizards (for conventional
UT) ........................................................................................................
TOFD (sold as an
option) ............................................................................................................................
......
Creating a TOFD
setup ......................................................................................................................
14.1
.....
Calibrating a TOFD
setup ......................................................................................................................
14.2
.
Understanding what you look
14.3
at ...........................................................................................................
Phased array (sold as an
option) ......................................................................................................................
Understanding what you look
15.1
at ...........................................................................................................
Moving the A-scan Extractor
15.2
cursor ......................................................................................................

4
5
6
7
9
1
1
1
3
1
5
1
7
1
8
1
9
2
0
2
0
2
0
2
2
2
2
2
5
2
6
2
7
2
7
3
0

Moving the Top/End view

box ...............................................................................................................
Adjusting the focus (focal
15.4
laws) .............................................................................................................
Calibration wizards (for phased
15.5
array) ...................................................................................................
Manipulating cursors (Cartesian, Angular, Gate, Extractor Box,
Extractor) .....................................................
Adding
cursors ............................................................................................................................
......................
Making measurements with
gates ...................................................................................................................
Customizing the Measurements
bar ................................................................................................................
Taking screenshots and building
reports ..........................................................................................................
Defining scan plan geometry(cartesian/axis reference
system) ......................................................................
Wedge
references ..............................................................................................................
21.1
....................
Groupreference ......................................................................................................
21.2
...............................
Part
datum ....................................................................................................................
21.3
.........................
Setting up the type of encoder or timebasedscan ..........................................................................................
Setting up an encoded
scan ..............................................................................................................................
Selecting a layout with appropriate
views .......................................................................................................
Menu tree (menu items vary according to the inspection
setup)....................................................................
15.3

1
6
1
7
1
8
1
9
2
0
2
1

2
2
2
3
2
4
2
5

3
0
3
0
3
1
3
2
3
2
3
3
3
4
3
5
3
5
3
6
3
6
3
7
3
8
3
8
4
0
4
1

2
Ruler and Axis Color
6 Map ................................................................................................................................. 43
Power Led
2 Behavior .........................................................................................................................
7
.................44
Color
2 palettes ..........................................................................................................................
8
.........................44
2
Uncovered features in this
9
document .............................................................................................................. 45
Calibration on each type of
29.1
reflectors ................................................................................................... 45
DAC.........................................................................................................................
29.2
................................45
Split
DAC.........................................................................................................................
29.3
........................45
DGS .........................................................................................................................
29.4
................................45
Split
DGS .........................................................................................................................
29.5
........................45
API ..........................................................................................................................
29.6
................................45
AWS
measurements ........................................................................................................
29.7
.......................45
TCG ..........................................................................................................................
29.8
...............................45
BEA ........................................................................................................................
29.9
.................................45
TOFD lateral wave
29.1 straightening...........................................................................................................
0
.45
TOFD lateral wave
29.1 removal ..................................................................................................................
1
..45
Data
29.1 analysis ..................................................................................................................
2
........................45
29.1
Detail documentation of all type of
3
measures ...................................................................................... 45
Example of typical
29.1 inspections .............................................................................................................
4
..45
Enabling software
29.1 options ...................................................................................................................
5
..45
3 Definitions ......................................................................................................................
0
..................................46
Scan
types ......................................................................................................................
30.1
........................46
30.1.1
Sectorial 4

scan .........................................................................................................................
.................. 6
Linear
scan ......................................................................................................................... 4
30.1.2
...................... 6
30.1.3 Mono scan (conventional
4
UT) ..................................................................................................................
6
TOFD
scan .......................................................................................................................... 4
30.1.4
....................... 6
3
Copyright, Disclaimers and
1
Certifications ......................................................................................................... 47
Copyright .................................................................................................................
31.1
...............................47
Disclaimer of
liability ...................................................................................................................
31.2
...........47
Certification (electromagnetic
31.3
compatibility) ........................................................................................ 48

V1.0

1 Introduction to your new

device
It is now time for you to boot the
unit for the first time. The
Prisma is designed so that the
first experience is as user
friendly as possible. You may not
have all the reflexes from start;
however the interface is such
that you will learn quickly.
Before starting, verify that your
package includes the following:

1.

Drawing:
unit,
battery
and
charger

Make sure you have the appropriate

probes, wedges, and encoder for the
type of inspection you intend to
perform. You may also use the
Prisma demo kit, which includes all
the required accessories to achieve
each scenario described in this
document.

V1.0

2 Inserting the battery and charging it for

the first time

2.

Drawing: unit back

Unscrew the back door and insert the battery. Pull out the
AC rubber cap and connect the AC adaptor. The first charge
must last at least 6 hours. The unit can be used while
charging. To avoid any down time when you perform an
inspection, we can provide you with an external battery
charger, or additional battery packs.

V1.0

3 Booting
device

the

1. Press the ON/OFF (

) key.
The
Prisma
requires 35 seconds
for a full cold-boot
process.
2. At the end of the
boot process, the
graphical
user
interface
(GUI)
appears.

3.

Drawing:
startup
screen

V1.0

4 Connecting the
memory stick

probes

and

USB

1. Connect the probe to the appropriate connector.

4.

Drawing: UT connectors

To connect phased array probes, unscrew the

protective cap and place it on the back of the
unit (over the CE marking). If you own probes
with a different type of connector, Sonatest
can provide you with adaptors.

5.

Drawing: X4 phased array probe DAAH

phased array probe X-clamp

Adaptors for conventional Conventional UT

probes are also available from your
Sonatest provider (Prisma is offered with
BNC or Lemo connectors, depending on
the users preference).
The TX/RX connector must be used for pulseecho(PE) type scans. For pitch-and-catch (P&C)
setups, use the TX/RX connector as the
transmitting (pitch) probe and the RX connector
as the receiving (catch) probe.

2. Connect a USB memory stick in the appropriate

USB slot.

V1.0

6.

Drawing: PC Type Connectors

Three USB connectors are available to connect: USB drive, USB Keyboard, or USB
mouse. An adaptor is
required for the Mini USB port. The Ethernet port is used for remote support session,
screen replication on

a VNC connection or device firmware updates.

NOTE: If a USB memory is connected to the unit, the configuration (.utcfg) and the
collected data (.utdata) will be stored to this device. If there is no USB
memory stick connected to the unit, the configuration (.utcfg) and the
collected data (.utdata) will be stored to the internal memory (5 GB available
to the user).

V1.0

5 Load an existing configuration

1. To open example configuration provided with the unit, press the

key

to reach the startup menu.

7.

Drawing: startup screen

2. Using the click wheel ( ) on the front membrane, select Load Configuration and
press

8.

V1.0

Drawing: Click wheel usage

3. Press the

button to switch to the Template media. The unit includes 2

internal media; if a USB memory stick is connected to the device, the following list
will be available:

a.

Internal partition to allow user to store his own files

b.

Templates partition store all example

configurations

c.

Other name USB memory stick connected to the

device

9.

Drawing: Media Browser (file open)

4. Press the
key to toggle between the different views. Press the
select the Menu bar on the left of the screen.

key to

5. Select the appropriate file in the list using the click

wheel ( ). 6. Press
File Extension
.utcfg
.utdata
.pdf
.png

to open the selected file.

Description
Contains the entire configuration for an inspection (the probe, the
wedge, the type of
scan, the position of each cursor, the layout, the color palette to use).
Contains the recorded data (it also contains everything a .utcfg file
contains).
Reports created by Prisma use the PDF file format. Any other PDF file
can also be
displayed by the Prisma.
Screen captures created by Prisma use the PNG image standard.
(PNG: portable network graphics)

V1.0

10

6 Create a configuration
1. To create a totally new configuration, press the
menu. Using the click wheel (

key to reach the startup

) on the front membrane, select Start New

Inspection Wizard and press

10.

Drawing: startup screen

2. Read each step instruction. Set the parameters one by one.

11.

Drawing: New Inspection Wizard (Step 1)

3. Select the inspection type (conventional, TOFD, or phased-array) and press the
F3 key.

V1.0

11

4. Choices made at each step change the amount of steps required to

build the configuration. Typical steps are as follow:

12.

5. After each step, press

a previous step.

V1.0

Drawing: New Inspection Wizard (step list)

to go to the next step. Press

to go back to

12

7 Starting
acquisition

data

The Prisma was designed

to simplify the workflow.
The device has 3
operational modes:
Configuration
Acquisition/Recordi
ng
Analysis
These states are controlled
like a common DVD
recorder, by using STOP (
), PLAY (

), and

REC (
).The current
operation mode is always
displayed at the top-right
corner of the screen (

).
1. After
opening
a
configuration file (.utcfg),
the Prisma always starts in
"Configuration mode, also
called STOP (
) mode.
Before starting the data
acquisition, it is a good
practice to review your
setup.

2. In "Configuration mode,
the Prisma displays the
following screen:

r
a
w
i
n
g
:
U
T
C
o
n
f
i
g
u
r
a
t
i
o
n
m
o
d
e
(
l
a
y
o
u
t
)
1. Menu
2. Configuration
summary
view
3. 3D view
4. Contextual help view

V1.0

13

3. Press the

key to select the Menu bar, then use the click wheel (

navigate. Press

) to

to edit a parameter.

4. To navigate in the various menus, press the

and

arrow keys. Press

or

, or rotate your finger around the OK button, to move up or down in the menu.

13. Drawing: UT Configuration mode (components)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Tab bar (selected menu)

Menu Item
Selected Menu Item
Category
Tab bar
3D View
Battery Status
Information Bar
Contextual Help View

5. Pour gel couplant on the sample to be inspected.

6. Position the probe on the part.
7. Press

to change to the Acquisition mode (

). At any time, you can press

to return to the Configuration mode.

8. You are ready to start the calibration process by selecting the Calibrate tab.

V1.0

14

8 Understanding what
conventional UT)

you

look

at

(for

It is important to understand what you are looking at. The

following information guides you through the essential
elements of the Acquisition mode, also called PLAY ( )
mode.

14. Drawing: UT Acquisition mode (layout)

1.
2.
3.
4.

Menu
A-Scan View
C-Scan View
B-Scan View

V1.0

15

15. Drawing: UT Analysis mode (component)

1. Measurements bar
2. Calibration indicators
3. Instrument state (Acquisition, Configuration, Recording, Analysis) &
Battery Status
4. Scroll bar
5. View layout (current in green)
6. Encoder position
7. View measures
1. The way the screen area is divided is called a layout. Multiple layouts are available.
To change a layout, press
to select the Menu bar on the left of the screen,
press the
key repeatedly to select the

View tab, then use the click wheel (

) to select Select Layout, press
and use the click
wheel again to select the appropriate layout.
2. In the image above, the layout is composed of one A-Scan and one B-Scan. This is
the result of an encoded scan of a 0-degree dual crystal probe over a step bloc. At
the bottom, the colored spots you see represent the amplitude of the underlying Ascan sample. The X axis is the scan axis (encoder axis). The Y axis is the depth.
3. Each view includes its own cursors. Those can be added from the View tab and
removed from the Cursor tab. In the image above, the A-Scan has one gate and one
Cartesian cursor (cross-hair cursor). The B-scan view has 2 Cartesian cursors. The
Cartesian cursor location will report the depth (D) and true surface distance (SD) offset.
So, in the B-scan, if you move that cursor on top of a red spot on screen, it will provide
you the exact location of the flaw in the part, no matter at what angle the peak signal

occurs.
V1.0

16

All measurements are referenced from the wedge reference (Wedge

Reference) point. The wedge reference location depends on the type of wedge
you are you using, if any. The wedge reference is represented by the red dot in
the 3D and scan plan views displayed in Configuration mode. For more details
see section: Defining scan plan geometry(cartesian/axis reference system).

9 Navigating through menus and views

16.

1. Press

to select the Menu bar, then use the click wheel (

navigate. Press
value. Or press the
2. Press

Drawing: Menu bar, view selection, cursor selection

to edit a parameter and press

) to

again to confirm the new

key to cancel ongoing changes.

to toggle between the different views.

3. Press
to toggle between the different cursors of the selected view, then use
the click wheel to move the selected cursor (displayed in blue).

V1.0

17

10
Keypad

17.
Drawing: keypad

1. Click
wheel
2. Main
controls
to access
menus,
views
and
cursors
3. Alphanu
merical
keypad
and
shortcuts
4. Mode
selection

:
PLAY/PAU
SE,
STOP,
REC
5. Files
save and
load, use
these
buttons
to:
a. L
O
A
D
i. C
r
e
a
t
e
a
n
e
w

ii.

c
o
n
fi
g
u
r
a
ti
o
n
(
s
e
t
u
p
)
O
p
e
n
a
c
o
n
fi
g
u
r
a
ti
o
n
(
s
e
t

u
p
,
.
u
t
c
f
g
fi
l
e
)
iii. O
p
e
n
a
r
e
p
o
r
t
(
P
D
F
)
iv. O
p
e
n
a
d
a
t
a
fi
l
e
(
.
u
t
d
a
t
a
fi
l
e
)
b. S
A
V
E
i. S
a
v
e
c
o

n
fi
g
u
r
a
ti
o
n
(
s
e
t
u
p
,
.
u
t
c
f
g
fi
l
e
)
ii. S
a
v
e
s
c
r
e
e
n
c
a
p
t
u
r
e
i
m
a
g
e
iii. C
r
e
a
t
e
a
n
d
s
a
v
e
I
n

s
p
e
c
ti
o
n
r
e
p
o
r
t
V1.0

18

10.1 Keypad definition table

Button

Button Name

USB Keyboard

Short Function Description

CANCEL

Escape

Cancels an ongoing value change and resets to the previous value. Exit from a popup window.

Click Wheel

---

Rotate your finger clockwise and counter clockwise to scroll up and down through a menu, to
increase/decrease a parameter value, to move cursor in view area or zoom in/out in 3D view.
Also acts as LEFT/RIGHT key to move during text entry.

UP / DOWN
ARROWS

Arrows

Moves from one menu item to another. Changes a parameter value. Moves up and down the
selected cursor or gate.

LEFT / RIGHT
ARROWS

Arrows

Moves from one menu tab to another. Moves to left and right the selected cursor or gate.

OK

Enter

Edit and Confirm new value or selection.

MENU

Get to the menu and allows menu navigation.

VIEW

Toggles between the various views. Display the Measurements bar (in Live mode)

CURSOR

Toggles between the various cursors of the currently selected view. Also acts as BACKSPACE
during text entry.

dB

Changes the gain value of the selected scan. If pressed and held for 3 second, it will
automatically adjust the gain to 80% of the selected gate (if RefAmplitude is set to 80%).

WELD

Shows or hides the weld overlay for the selected view.

ZOOM IN/OUT

Zooms in or out of the view (in analysis mode only).

MAX / MIN

Maximize or minimize the selected view. It can be used for all views.

GATE

Focuses or toggles between gates.

RANGE

Changes the range path value of the selected scan.

F1 / HELP

F1

Access to the Contextual Help, Quick Start Guide and User Guide Documentation.

F2 / INFO

F2

Displays the view information menu.

In Wizards, F2 goes back to the previous step or page.

F3 / SET REF

F3

Resets the encoders position to the origin.

In Wizards, F3 goes forward to the next step or page.

PLAY/PAUSE

Starts live ultrasound images, or freezes the acquisition.

STOP

Stops the live acquisition and goes back in configuration mode, or stops the recording.

RECORD

Starts the recording mode that permits to save data when the scan is done (or when the scan
is filled of data).

SAVE

Saves a file (configuration, screen shut, report)

LOAD

Loads a configuration file. Will display a file list to choose from.

REJECT

---

Lit when reject mode is activated

ALARM1 &2

---

Lit when any of the gates has a threshold detected (the gate shall be configured).

ON/OFF
&
Battery indicator

---

Powers the instrument on (Hold down) or shuts it down. Lights up in green when the device is
ON.
Refer to the section 27 Power Led Behavior

V1.0

19

11 Adjusting gain
1. Press the dB (

) key to set the gain of the current scan.

Note: If you have multiple scans (only in UT), you should select the appropriate
scan by pressing

before pressing the dB (

) key.

12 Automatic 80% gain adjustment

1. Press the gate key (
click wheel arrows (

), move the gate on a peak to be maximized with the

,

and

2. Press and hold the dB (

) key for 3 seconds, it will automatically adjust
the gain to the value of the Ref Amplitude parameter of the selected gate
(Ref amplitude default value is 80%).

13 Calibration wizards (for conventional UT)

The "Calibration" tab displays the available calibration wizard. The menu items on
this tab are sorted in the order the calibrations should be performed. If you are
using a multi-scan setup, each scan must be calibrated independently. Each wizard
will help the user calibrate the unit considering: the reflector type, calibration bloc
type, theoretical values, and the probe/wedge type.
Type

Velocity & Zero

Wizard...
TCG/DAC/DGS
Wizard...
Encoder
Wizard...
Clear Calibrations

Description
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
your material
velocity and Zero (part surface).
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
your TCG ,DAC
or DGS curves (Time Corrected Gain / Distance
Amplitude
Correction / Distance Gain Sizing).
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
the encoder
resolution.
Resets one or more calibrations.

V1.0

20

The following figures show screen captures of Velocity & Zero Wizard and
TCG Wizard.

18. Drawing: Velocity and Zero Wizard

19. Drawing: TCG Wizard

V1.0

21

14 TOFD (sold as an option)

14.1 Creating a TOFD setup
Creating and calibrating a TOFD setup is a process that requires several steps.
The Prisma has been engineered to simplify this process. The user may load
an existing configuration or use the New Inspection Wizard.
In this section, the new inspection wizard is used to create the configuration.

1. Press the
wheel (

key to reach the startup menu, and by using the click

), select Start New Inspection Wizard and press

20. Drawing: startup menu

2. Select TOFD and press

V1.0

22

21. Drawing: New Inspection Wizard (step2)

3. Enter the type of material.

This information will be used later on to provide a theoretical speed to compute
and suggest PCS (probe center spacing).
4. Enter the part thickness.
This information will be used to propose a crossing point at 67% depth of the part
thickness. Once done modifying all the parameters on the menu, press
move to the next step.

5. Configure the probe, by modifying adequately the parameters and press

once done.
6. Configure the wedge in the same fashion.

to

V1.0

23

7. In theGeometry step, the wizard proposes a PCS based on the previous

information entered. Set the probe to this exact distance (exit point to exit
point).

22.

Drawing: New Inspection Wizard (Step 5)

8. In the Path step, the wizard shows a list computed with the information previously
entered. Modify the

Gain, the Start Path and the Range. Make sure you are can see the lateral
wave, the back wall, and the converted mode. Once done, press
the next step.

to move to

9. Configure the encoder, by modifying adequately the parameters and press

once done.

10. Modify the measurement if required (measurement of hyperbolic cursors are

already selected). Press

once done.

V1.0

24

14.2 Calibrating a TOFD

setup
Once the PCS is set, the
speed and the ruler position
are the parameters left to be
set.
1. Move to the Scan tab
with the
or
arrow
keys.
2. Select
the
TOFD
category by pressing the
or
, or rotate your
finger around.
3. Expand
the
TOFD
category by pressing
.
4. Modify the Ruler LW
Pos
parameter
(it
controls
the
white
cursor in the A-scan
view) to align the ruler
of the TOFD view to
the first positive peak
of the lateral wave.

23.

D
r
a

w
i
n
g
:
T
O
F
D
c
o
m
p
o
n
e
n
t

1. Ruler
Backwall
(BW) Position
2. Ruler Lateral Wave
(LW) Position
3. Non-Linear
TOFD
Ruler
5. Make sure the Ruler BW
Pos item is set so that
the blue cursor in the Ascan is aligned to the
back wall first negative
peak.
If it is not aligned, try
adjusting the material
velocity in the Part
menu, the zero in the
Scan menu, or the
probe spacing on the
scanner.

V1.0

25

14.3 Understanding what you

look at
The following instructions will
guide you through the essential
elements of Acquisition mode
(PLAY).
1. A-scan view
2. TOFD view

24.

D
ra
wi
n
g:
T
O
F
D
la
y
o
ut

1. The way the view area is divided

is called a layout. Multiple
layouts are available. To change
the layout, press
to select
the menu, press the
arrow
key to select the View tab.

Then use the click

wheel (
) to select Select
Layout, then use the click
wheel to select the appropriate
layout.
2. In the image above, the layout
is composed of one A-scan view
and one TOFD view (the B-scan
is called the TOFD view when
making TOFD inspections). This
is the result of an encoded scan.
The gray is 0% FSH amplitude,
the white is +100% FSH
amplitude and the black is
-100% FSH amplitude.
3. The orange cursors in the TOFD
view are called Hyperbolic
cursors.The double cross hair
cursor indicates which A-scan is
showed in the A-scan view.
Changing the extractor angle in
the TOFD scan view will
therefore change the A-scan
signal you see in the left-side
view.
4. There
are
several
other
functions embedded in the unit
to
perform
lateral
wave
straightening and lateral wave
removal; those are explained in
the User Guide.

V1.0

26

15 Phased array (sold as an option)

15.1 Understanding what you look at
It is important to understand what you are looking at on the screen. The following
guides you through the essential elements of the Acquisition mode.

25. Drawing: phased array analysis and acquisition layout

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

V1.0

Menu
Sectorial scan (S-scan) view
Top (amplitude %) view
End (amplitude %) view
A-scan
B-scan

27

26.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Drawing: phased array analysis and acquisition (component)

Measurement bar
Calibration indicator
Instrument state (Acquisition, Configuration, Recording, Analysis)
Scroll bar
View layout (current view in blue)
Encoder position
View measures

1. The way the screen area is divided is called a layout. Multiple screen layouts are
available. Press
select the Viewtab.

to select the left-side menu, press the

arrow keys to

2. Use the click wheel (

) to select Select Layout, then use the click
wheel to select the appropriate layout.
3. In the image above, the pie-shaped image is called the sectorial scan (S-scan). It is
an image created from the samples of 71 beams from 35 to 70 degrees, with a 0.5degree step,[(70-35)) 0.5]+1 = 71. The colored spots you see represent the
amplitude of the underlying A-scan sample.
4. The dash angle line on the S-scan is called the Angular Extractor cursor. This cursor
indicates which A-scan is showed in the A-Scan view. Changing the extractor angle
in the S-scan will therefore change the A-scan angle you see in the right-side view.
This is the key advantage of phased array; you can inspect multiple angles in realtime.
The cross-hair cursor on the S-scan is called a Cartesian cursor. The cross-hair
location will report the depth (D) and true surface distance (SD) offset. So if you move
the Cartesian cursor on top of a red spot

V1.0

28

on screen, you will know the exact location of the flaw, no matter at which angle
the peak signal occurs. All measurements are referenced from the wedge
reference point. The wedge reference location depends on the type of wedge
you are you using, if any. The wedge reference is represented by the red dot in
the 3D and scan plan views used in the Configuration mode. For more details see
the Defining scan plan geometry(cartesian/axis reference system) section.
5. All views have their own rulers. Use them to quickly evaluate the position (for
example, the depth) of flaws in the part you inspect.

27.

Drawing: phased array analysis and acquisition layout, ruler identification

6. Each A-scan also features its own signal gates. The gates are positioned along the
time/distance axis.Each gate has a threshold level; whenever the signal crosses the
gate, a measurement is calculated and displayed on the side of the gate.
Measurements are also presented at the top of the screen.
7. The green triangle (PLAY symbol) at the top right of the screen indicates that we are in
real-time imaging mode. Ultrasounds are generated. To freeze the image press
or
record the real-time data (
).

V1.0

29

15.2

Moving the A-scan Extractor cursor

1. In acquisition mode, press the

scan view.
2. Press the
view.

key (once or multiple times) to select the S-

key (once or multiple times) to select the extractor in the current

3. Use the click wheel ( ) to move the selected Extractor cursor.

15.3

Moving the Top/End view box

1. In acquisition mode, press the

scan view.
2. Press the
view.

key (once or multiple times) to select the S-

key (once or multiple times) to select the extractor in the current

3. Use the click wheel ( ) to select to move the selected "box".

4. Press

to modify the "box" size, then use the click wheel to change

dimensions and

15.4

again to accept.

Adjusting the focus (focal laws)

An important parameter to adjust in phased array is the focus. Just like in

conventional UT, the focusing capability is restricted to the near-field length. In
other words, beam focusing is only achievable to distances shorter than the nearfield length. For weld testing, a non focused beam is often preferred and this can
be achieved by setting the focal distance to a value much greater than the nearfield length. Refer to the 3D view to know the near-field length of the probe.
1. Press the

key.

2. Press the RIGHT ARROW key on the click wheel (

) a fewtimes in
order to reach the Scantab.
3. Press the DOWN ARROW key a few times in order to reach the "Focus Dist"
item.
4. Press the

key to modify the value.

5. Rotate the click wheel (

6. Press the

) to increase or decrease the focusing distance.

key to accept the new value.

V1.0

30

15.5 Calibration wizards (for phased

array)
The "Calibration" tab displays access
buttons for each calibration wizard. The
items in this menu are sorted in the order
calibrations should be performed. If you
are using a multi-scan setup, each scan
must be calibrated independently.
Type

Velocity
Wizard...
Wedge Delay
Wizard...
Sensitivity/ACG
Wizard...
TCG/DAC
Wizard...
Encoder
Wizard...
Element Check
Wizard...
Clear Calibrations

Description
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
your material
velocity.
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
your Wedge
Delay. Only applicable in Phased Array.
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
your sensitivity
(also known as ACG: Angular Corrected Gain). Only
applicable
in Phased Array.
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
your TCG or
DAC curves (Time Corrected Gain / Distance
Amplitude
Correction).
Guides you in a step by step fashion to calibrate
the encoder
resolution.
Uses the "Example_Element_Check.utcfg" to easily
determine
if an element is defective.
Resets one or more calibrations.

Displayed below is a screen capture of the

Sensitivity Wizard:

28. Drawing: phased array,

Sensitivity Calibration Wizard

V1.0

31

16 Manipulating cursors (Cartesian, Angular, Gate, Extractor Box,

Extractor)
1. In "Acquisition mode, press the
appropriate view.
2. Press the
current view.

key (once or multiple times) to select the

key (once or multiple times) to select the appropriate cursor in the

3. Use the click wheel (

) to move the selected cursor.

4. To change the gate size, press

, then change size by using the click wheel ( ).

17 Adding cursors
Here is the list of available cursors:
Type
Gate

Description
The gates are used to make flank and peak measurements
ina A-SCAN
views. When the gate is triggered by an echo, the peak
amplitude level
is displayed, as well as its absolute position in Depth (),
Surface
Distance () and Sound Path (). All Sound Path
measurements use
the SCAN Travel Mode, thus measurements can either
represent the
Full or Half Sound Path in the part (in mm or inches), or
the Full or Half
Sound Time spent in the part (in s).
Quick access key:

Extractor

The extractor is used to extract A-scans from the L/Sscan.

Cartesian

The Cartesian cursors are used to make surface distance

(SD) and depth
measurements in S/L/A-scans.

Angular

The Angular cursors are used to perform Sound Path

measurements in
S/L-scans.

Extractor
Box

The Extractor Box is used to extract Top/End views from

the S/Lscans.

Hyperboli The Hyperbolic cursors are used to evaluate surface

Drawing

distance (SD) and

depth measurements in a TOFD (Time of Flight Diffraction)
scan. The
TOFD view is a B-scan type view with a pitch-and-catch
probe geometry.
The main explanation behind the hyperbole is the nonlinearity of depth
measures.

Cursors can be added manually to views:

1. In Acquisition mode, press the
appropriate view.
V1.0

key (once or multiple times) to select the

32

2. Press

, select the "View" tab.

Use the click

3. wheel (

) to select the "Add

Cursor" item.

18 Making measurements with gates

There are various ways to make measurements, but using gates is the most
common and precise way to do it:
1. In acquisition mode, press the gate (
the appropriate gate.

) key (once or multiple times) to select

2. Use the click wheel ( ) to move the selected gate.

3. To change the gate size, press
).

and change size by using the click wheel (

V1.0

33

19 Customizing the
Measurements bar

29. Drawing:
Measurement
bar

The Measurements bar is shown at the

top of the screen in PLAY mode, when
focus is in the views (in
PLAY mode, press the
button). It
can also be shown permanently in PLAY
mode by enabling the Keep Measures
preference.
To select desired measures from cursors:
1. Press
if you are not in PLAY
mode.
2. Navigate to the Measures menu
and select Select Measures.

30.

Drawing:
Measure
menu

3. Select
one
of
the
measurementsitem (1 through 6),
and press

to modify it.

31. Drawing: select

the Measure menu

V1.0

34

Each measure ID is composed of 3 parts; the cursor identifier, the reference point,
and the type of measurement. For example, G1 ^
2 means the true depth in
the second half skip of the peak detected in the gate number 1. The following
presents the description of each measurement type.
Identifier

Cursor Type

Ref

Reference Point

Meas

MeasurementType

Angular/Extractor

Peak (or point)

Cartesian

Flank

Depth

First point of a

Sound path (from exit

gate
End point of a

point)
Surface distance (from
wedge reference)

G
H
SQ
AB

DAC

Gate
Hyperbolic (TOFD)
Square Box
Angular Box

Distance amplitude
curve

Start
Stop

gate

True

Amplitude in percent

depth(considering
half-skips)

20 Taking screenshots and building reports

1. To produce a screenshot or a report, press the
key.
2. Select "Report" or "Screen Capture" (refer to the loading and saving file section).

21 Defining scan plan geometry(cartesian/axis reference system)

The "Geometry" tab defines the scan plan. The parametersof this menu define the
location of the probe/wedge on the part to be scanned. To accurately define a scan
plan, the information in this section is critical.

V1.0

35

21.1 Wedge references

The wedge reference (

) is different for each type of wedge or probe (when no wedge is used).

Probe Type

Reference
Reference point on beam exit
point

Probe without wedge

Reference point on the probe

active surface center

Probe with a flat wedge

Reference point on wedge

contact surface center

Probe with an angularwedge

Reference point on center of

wedge front edge

Phased Array

Conventional UT

Probe with or without wedge

Drawing

21.2 Groupreference
An inspection setup can involve multiple probes. These probes are located in reference
to a groupreference ( ) point. The Grp Ref point can be positioned anywhere on the
probe retention system, but a good practice is toposition it aligned with the weld center
line and the probe/wedge center.

V1.0

36

32. Drawing: group reference (Grp Ref)

21.3 Part datum

Once the group reference" point has been defined, the last step is properly define
the reference system in relation to the "Part Datum"( ), an arbitrary point on the
piece under test. All ultrasonic data collected shall be traceable to this reference
point called datum, the (0,0) reference. When possible, it is recommended to
superpose the group reference (Grp Ref) point and the datum when using simple
scan patterns. Otherwise, the user can define an offset using the "Encoder:Scan
Start Position".

33. Drawing: Part Datum

V1.0

37

22 Setting up the type of encoder or time-basedscan

There are 2 types of inspection:
Manual (free running) with time based recording.

Encoded (trig encoder), where ultrasound pulses are emitted at specific

positions provided by the encoder.

2. Press STOP (

) to return in configuration mode.

3. Press the RIGHT ARROW key on the click wheel (

the "Encoding" tab.

) a few times in order to reach

4. Press
to edit the "Encoding Setup" parameter.
5. Select:
"None" for manual (free running)
"Scan Axis Only" for encoded (trig encoder)
6. Configure the "Encoding" tab parameters according to your encoding setup.
7. If you selected "Scan Axis Only", connect the encoder in the E connector on the
back panel of the unit.

34.

Drawing: unit back-panel connectors

7. Press PLAY (
), select the appropriate layout.
If you select "Scan Axis Only", try moving the encoder/scanner.
8. Use the Encoder Wizard to easily configure the encoder step
and granularity. Note: To connect 2 encoders, a Y-splitter
cable is required.

23 Setting up an encoded scan

1. Press the STOP (

) key to return to the Configuration mode (it is easier

to review "Geometry" parameters in Configuration mode).

V1.0

38

2. Review the parameters on the "Geometry" tab if you intend on using an encoder. To
navigate the various menus, press the
and
arrow keys. Press
or
, or
rotate your finger around the OK button, to move up or down in the menu. Press
to edit a parameter:
Geometry: W1 Index Offset (W1 stands for "Wedge 1", or "Probe 1" if theres
no wedge)
Geometry: W1 Scan Offset (W1 stands for "Wedge 1", or "Probe 1" if theres
no wedge)
Geometry: W1 Rotation (W1 stands for "Wedge 1", or "Probe 1" if theres no
wedge)
3. Review the parameters on "Encoding" tab if you intend to use an encoder:
Encoder: Encoding Setup
Encoder: Scan Enc. Type (the type of encoder used)
Encoder: Scan Start Pos (the start position )
Encoder: Scan Distance
Encoder: Scan Step

4. Press PLAY (
5. Press

and

) to change to the Acquisition mode.

to reset the encoder position as needed.

V1.0

39

24 Selecting a layout with

appropriate views
The number of available views
depends on the inspection setup. The
following is the list of all available
views:
View

Description

A-scan view

B-scan view

C-scan view

D-scan view

S-scan view

TOP

Top view

END

End view

TOFD

TOFD view

MTOP

Merged Top view

MC
B-LOG

Merged C-scan
Thickness B-Scan view

1. Select the View tab and press

open the list of available views.

35.

to

Drawing: view
layout

2. Use the click wheel to select the

desired layout.

V1.0

40

25 Menu tree (menu items vary according to the

inspection setup)

Inspection
Hardware
Settings

Voltage
Phased Array

Voltage Mono

Mono
Pulse
Damping

Encoder
Wizard...

Eleme
nt
Activa
tion
Wizar
d...

Report Info

Job/Customer

Site

Operator

Qualification

Procedure Ref

Couplant

TCG/DAC/
DGS
Wizard...

Probe

Add

Delete

Load

Probe
Type
Identifiers

Clear
Calibratio
ns

Procedure
Report

Report Type

Cursors Info

Inspection
Info

Probe Info

Wedge Info

Scan Info

Encoder Info

DAC Info

DGS Info

3D Views Info

Warnings Info

Logo

Change
File

Logo

Clear
File

Logo

Manufact
urer

Model

Serial

Settings

Frequenc
y

Pulse
Width

Connecte
d To

V1.0

Report Settings

Advanced
Settings

First
Element
Pin #

NbElmnt
Dim 1

Elmt
Pitch Dim
1& 2

Elmt Size
Dim 1

Elmt
Offset
Dim 1&2

Element
Layout

Save

Menus

Lock Setup

Short Menu

Calibrate

Velocity
&
Zero Wizard...

Wedge Delay
Wizard...

Sensitivity/AC
G Wizard...

Encoding

Encoding
Setup

Encoders
Name

Reset All
Position
Scan Axis

Scan Axis
Name

Scan Enc
Type

Scan
Enc
Resolution

Scan
Start
Position

Scan
Position

Scan Distance

Scan Step

Scan
Invert
Direction

Stop

Statistics

Wedge

Load

Wedge
Type

Manufact
urer

Model

Serial

Data File Size

X Offset

Max Phys. Enc.

Speed

Contact
Surface

Cut Angle

Select
Measures
- Measurement 1
to 6

Scan

Add

Delete

Scan Type
Gain

Gain

Reference
Gain

Software
Gain

Auto FSH%

Reference
Amplitude
Resolution

Material

Part
Geometr
y

Thicknes
s

Velocity
LW

Velocity
SW

Identifiers

Advanced
Settings

Compone
nt

Serial #

Location
Ref

Wedge
Velocity
LW

Diameter

Back
Height

Weld

Front
Height

HAZ

Root Gap

Width

Length

(Weld
geometry
)

Roof
Angle

Probe
Back Dist

Probe
Side Dist

Probe
Inset

Start Angle

Stop Angle

Angle

Start Path

Range Path

Stop Path

Zero

Wave Mode

Travel Mode

Weld
Geometry

Calibration
Block

Cal.
Block
Type

Cal.
Block
Serial #

Focal
Distance

TOFD

Focusing

Ruler
Lateral
Wave
Position

Theo
Time
Lateral
Wave

Theo
Time
Lateral
Wave

Number
Active
Element

PCS

Double
Resolution

Beam
inter Pct

Focalisation

Straighte

Acquisition Area

Properties

Settings

Part

Identifiers

Measures

Save

of

ning
-

Activate
Straightenin
g

Show
Indicators

LW
Trig.
Tolerance

LW
Trig.
Threshold
LW Removal

Activate LW
Removal

LW Removal
Indicator

Focal Law

RX

Angle

Signal
Rectification

Sound
Path

Digital Filter

Analog filter

Gate
Start/Sto
p

SubSampling

Gate
Width

Rejection

Reject
Threshold

Smoothing

Contouring

LW Removal
Factor

Cont.
Rate

LW
Zone
Start,
Range

Averaging

IFT Active

Decay

- IFT Start,
Range,
Threshold

TX

PRF

V1.0

Axis

Scan
(continued)

Acq. Freq

Probe Connect

Probe TX/RX

Elements

First Element
TX/RX

Last Element
TX/RX

Statistics

Beams
Quantity

Samples
Quantity

Path
Resolution

Cursor

Name

Type

Color
Position

Level/Thresh
old

Surface Dist
(Start/Stop)

Depth
(Start/Stop)

True
Depth
(Start/Stop)

Encoding
Scan/Index

Measures

Gate
Follow
Peak

Triggered
By

Alarm

Gate
Alarm

View

Select Layout

View
Orientation

Add Cursor

Depth/Path
Mode

Grids

Scroll & Zoom

View Palette

Palette
Position

Palette Ampl.
Low

Palette Ampl.
High

Palette Depth
Low

Palette Depth
High

Data Extraction

View Scrolling
Mode

Frame Start

Zoom

Probe/Wedge 1

W1
Offset

Index

W1
Offset

Scan

W1 Rotation

Encoding Area

Enc. Area CL
Pos

Depth/Amp
Mode

Depth/Path
Mode

Enc. Area CL
Offset

Data Gate

Enc.
Area
Rotation

Reference
Gate

IFT Culling

Rulers

Prefs
Media Browser
Disp
lay
Syst

Geometry

Rulers & Grids

Palette Properties

k
S
u
p
p
o
r
t

4
2

26 Ruler and Axis Color

Map
View
A-scan

B-scan

C-scan

D-scan

S-scan

Top

End

TOFD

V1.0

Axis Content
Amplitude
Sound path
Scan
Sound path
Scan
Surface distance
Index
Sound path
Surface distance
Depth
Scan
Surface distance
Scan
Depth
Scan
Depth (non-linear)

43

27 Power Led Behavior

The unit is turned off
Power Led Color
BLUE
OFF

Status
Charging
Charged, or no power cord

When unit is turned on (on battery power)

Power Led Color
RED

Status
Battery Critical (0% to 20%)

YELLOW

Battery Low (20% to 30%)

GREEN

Battery OK (30% to 100%)

When unit is turned on (plugged in)

Power Led Color

Status

BLUE

Charging

GREEN

Charged

28 Color palettes
Palette Names

Color Gradient

3 level threshold
ABF Amplitude
Aeronautic
Cubic Law
Fire Ice
Rainbow
Spectrum
Thermal
Greyscale
TOFD

V1.0

44

29 Uncovered features in this document

This document is an introduction to Prisma operation. The following list of
features is available and documented into the complete User Guide
document.

29.1

Calibration on each type of reflectors

29.2

DAC

29.3

Split DAC

29.4

DGS

29.5

Split DGS

29.6

API

29.7

AWS measurements

29.8

TCG

29.9

BEA

29.10

TOFD lateral wave straightening

29.11

TOFD lateral wave removal

29.12

Data analysis

29.13

Detail documentation of all type of measures

29.14

Example of typical inspections

29.15

Enabling software options

V1.0

45

30 Definitions
30.1 Scan types
The "Scan: Type" parameter allows the user to select among Sectorial, Linear,
Mono, and TOFD scans. Each scan is configured either in pulse-echo (PE) mode or
pitch-and-catch (P&C) mode, except for TOFD scans which always are in pitchand-catch. Each type of scans is described below:
30.1.1
Sectorial scan
The sectorial scan, also called azimuthal scan or more commonly S-scan, is a
cross-sectional image of the inspected volume. It represents an angular coverage
of the volume under the probe.
30.1.2

Linear scan

The linear scan, commonly called L-scan, is represented on screen as a parallelogram

view, directlyunder the probe or at a specific angle. The L-scan is generated by
multiple A-scans at the sametransmitted angle, but from different exit points. A small
group of elements are activated to generateeach beam (focal law), and the group of
elements moves along the elements array for each subsequentbeam.

30.1.3

Mono scan (conventional UT)

The mono scan refers to the conventional A-scan representation, using a single
reception element. The A-scan is a waveform representing the amplitude of the
ultrasound signal as a function of time or distance of propagation. Echoes become
apparent as soon as reflectors occur on the travel path of the ultrasound wave
front. A reflector may be a defect, such as a crack, but most of the time you get
echoes from bouncing waves on component geometry (i.e. weld root).
30.1.4

TOFD scan

The time-of-flight-diffraction (TOFD) scan involves a pitch-and-catch setup of

conventional UT probes where data is generally displayed using a greyscale Bscan.

V1.0

46

31 Copyright, Disclaimers and Certifications

31.1 Copyright
Copyright 2013 Sonatest Limited
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of Sonatest Limited.
E-mail: sales@sonatest.com
Web: www.sonatest.com

31.2

Disclaimer of liability

All statements, technical information and recommendations contained in this

manual or any other information supplied by Sonatest Limited in connection with
the use, features and qualifications of the Prisma is based on tests believed to be
reliable, but the accuracy or completeness thereof is not guaranteed. Before using
the product you should determine its suitability for your intended use based on
your knowledge of ultrasonic testing and the characteristics of materials. You bear
all risk in connection with the use of the product.
You are reminded that all warranties as to merchantability and fitness for purpose
are excluded from the contract under which the product and this manual have been
supplied to you. The Sellers only obligation in this respect is to replace such
quantity of the product proved to be defective.
Neither the seller nor the manufacturer shall be liable either in contract or in
tort for any direct or indirect loss or damage (whether for loss of profit or
otherwise), costs, expenses or other claims for consequential or indirect
compensation whatsoever (and whether caused by the negligence of the
company, its employees or agents or otherwise).

V1.0

47

31.3

Certification (electromagnetic compatibility)

This product conforms to the following European Directives:

Directive 2002/95/EC on the Restriction of the Use of certain Hazardous
Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS)
Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment (WEEE) EMC Directive 2004/108/EC

Warning: 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 the user will be required to correct the interference at his or her own
expense.

The authority to operate this equipment is conditioned by the requirement that no

modifications will be made to the equipment unless the changes or modifications
are expressly approved by Ascend Communications, Inc.
This product contains a fully certified Bluetooth module (FCC ID : T9J-RN42).
The Prisma also complies with EN 12668-1, Non-destructive testing and
verification of ultrasonic examination equipment Part 1: Instruments.

V1.0

48