Instructions

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A scan that is recalled without its state retains its frequency and level information so that the
graticule scaling and marker readout remain correct. However, the information in the upper
annotation area will show the current setup rather than the state for the recalled file.
8.2.3.4 Exporting Scan Files
Exportable scan files are in .CSV format (comma separated variable format) and can be
transferred to a PC for external use in a similar way to trace files. However, unlike a trace file, a
scan file has to be “built” before it is exported.
Scan files can contain large amounts of data (up to 210,000 data points) and creating a large
CSV file can take considerable time. To minimise delays the file is stored internally in a binary
format which is much faster to create and to read.
To be useable with an external program, the file needs to use a universal format such as CSV.
When the binary file is created, a CSV file of the same name is also created, but initially this file
contains no data.
this function enables the file to be filled with data prior to its transfer to
an external device. If the file is intended only for viewing within the PSA
it is not necessary to use this function.
Pressing the key creates a further sub-menu along with a file selection window similar to the file
recall screen. The window shows both trace files and scan files. Only scan files (files that
commence with a $ symbol) should be selected.
Before commencing the procedure with the Execute key, the user should choose whether the
file should contain only the data part of the scan (Data Only) or both the data and a header that
describes the set-up of the analyzer when the file was stored (Data & State).
Some third party analysis programs require that CSV files do not include any header
information. In this case Data Only should be selected prior to pressing Execute.
Certain programs also require a lower case file extension and/or file name. The PSA uses an
8.3 file name system for which lower case characters are illegal. Any changes to the file name
must therefore be made within the environment of the PC where the program is located.
The build procedure takes just under one second per 1,000 points. Consequently for files
containing a large number of points, there can be a long delay. During this time a warning
message appears and the Disk lamp will flash.
Copying from the Traces Folder
The Traces folder contains both trace files and scan files. Scan files can be distinguished from
Trace files by their file name which always commences with a $ character.
Storing a trace creates a single file that has a .CSV extension. Storing a scan file, however,
creates three files with the same name but different extension (.CSV, .TXT, and .BIN). The
.TXT and .BIN files are for internal use only, whilst the .CSV version is for external use only
When viewed on the PSA, extensions are not shown and only one file will be visible. The Copy
function will copy only the .CSV version to the external device.
When viewed from a PC using a USB cable and the Link to PC function, the full contents of the
folder will be visible including the .BIN and .TXT versions of scan files. These should not be
copied nor altered in any way.
Note that a .CSV file is created immediately when the scan is saved, but that it contain no data
until the Build for Export function is used. Prior to this, the file will include text but no data.
8.2.4 Scan files and PSA-Manager
Scan files can be viewed and analyzed using PSA-Manager (v3.x or later). PSA-Manager is a
free Windows application that can be downloaded from the Aim-TTi web site.
User instructions are included with the application.
Build for
Export
Store/
Recall