Thermo Fisher Scientific Niton Analyzers XL2 Analyzer Version 8.0.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. provides this document to its customers with a product purchase to use in the product operation. This document is copyright protected and any reproduction of the whole or any part of this document is strictly prohibited, except with the written authorization of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. The contents of this document are subject to change without notice. All technical information in this document is for reference purposes only.
Contents Thermo Scientific Chapter 0 Contact Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Chapter 1 Manual Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Warnings, Cautions, and Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Figures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contents 2 manual-name Chapter 7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 Chapter 8 Learning More, Service, and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 Replacing the Measurement Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Tips and Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contact Us Americas Europe Asia niton.eur@thermofisher.com niton@thermofisher.com NitonEurope.support@thermofisher.com niton.asia@thermofisher.com NitonAsia.Support@thermofisher.
0 2 Contact Us Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
1 Manual Overview Warnings, Cautions, and Notes Manual Overview Warnings, Cautions, and Notes Warnings Warnings are extremely important recommendations, violating which may result in either injury to yourself or others, or damage to your analyzer and/or data. Warnings will always be identified as Warnings in the text, and will always be visually presented as follows: WARNING This is a Warning.
1 Manual Overview Physical Buttons Figure 1. This is a Figure Physical Buttons Physical Buttons are actual buttons on the analyzer which must be pushed to activate their function. Physical Buttons will always be identified as Buttons in the text, and will always be visually presented as follows: This is a Physical Button. Example Physical Buttons: On/Off/Escape Button, Clear/Enter Button, Interlock Button, and Trigger Button.
Using Your Analyzer This section discusses the basics of using your analyzer, no matter the specific type of analysis you wish to perform. First we go over analyzer safety, particularly radiation safety. Using an X-ray based analyzer safely is very important, and not difficult, provided you read, understand, and follow these guidelines. Secondly, we outline the startup procedure we recommend for daily use to ensure that your analyzer is performing properly and at its most efficient level.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Time The longer you are exposed to a source of radiation the longer the radiation is able to interact in your body and the greater the dose you receive. Dose increases in direct proportion to length of exposure. Distance The closer you are to a source of radiation, the more radiation strikes you.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer • light materials (such as plastic, wood, or similarly low density/low atomic mass samples) • thin samples (such as foils, circuit boards, and wires) • samples that are smaller than the analysis window. Shown in Table 1 are the typical background radiation doses received by the average member of the public. The radiation dose limits for radiation workers in the US are also shown in Table 2.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Table 1.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Monitoring your radiation exposure Individuals can be monitored for the radiation dose they receive by use of radiation dosimetry devices (dosimeters). Monitoring dose using a dosimeter can be a way of identifying improper use and at the same time demonstrating proper use. In some locations, dosimetry is required by regulations and in others it is optional.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer * The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) was chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1964 as the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements. How to Use the Niton XL2 Analyzer Safely The Niton XL2 analyzer is designed to be safe to operate provided that it is used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Figure 2. Secondary (Scattered) Beam The Shutter-Open Indicator Lights When the lights are flashing, the primary beam is on, and radiation is being emitted from the front of the analyzer. Figure 3.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Handle and Use with Respect Avoid holding the front of the analyzer when the x-ray tube is energized and the shutter is open. Never point the instrument at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open and the x-ray tube is energized. Never look into the path of the primary beam. Follow a Radiation Protection Program Your organization should establish, document, and follow a Radiation Protection Program.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Small Samples A small sample would be any sample that is smaller than the measurement window. Small samples present a unique risk because they don’t block the entire beam path. The difficulty with placing small samples down on a work surface to analyze them is that you may get readings from the work surface that interfere with analytical results. A test stand is an effective way of analyzing small samples accurately and safely.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Niton XL2 Radiation Profile Radiation Meter Information Model: Bicron MicroRem SN: 2057 Cal Due: 10/10/2009 Background Radiation Level <0.01 mr/hr Table 4 - Scatter Measurements off various substrates - Dose Rates in mRem/hr Table 4. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr 12 kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger 15 80 Low Aluminum <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 15 80 Low Stainless <0.01 <0.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Table 5 - Scatter Measurements off various substrates - Dose Rates in µSv/hr Table 5. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger 15 80 Low Aluminum <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 15 80 Low Stainless <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 15 80 Low Plastic <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 15 80 Low Soil <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 20 80 Low Aluminum <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 20 80 Low Stainless <0.1 <0.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Table 6 - In Beam Measurements - Dose Rates in Rem/hr Table 6. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr kV uA Range Contact Deep Contact Shallow 5cm Deep 30cm Deep 15 80 Low 7.9 230 2.1 0.088 20 80 Low 41 690 19 0.90 45 44 Main 45 150 7.4 0.70 Table 7 - In Beam Measurements - Dose Rates in mSv/hr Table 7.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile Table 8 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation profile- Scatter measurements - mRem/hr Table 8. Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger 8 100 Light Plastic <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 8 100 Light Stainless <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 8 100 Light Soil <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 45 44.4 Main Aluminum 0.5 <0.01 <0.01 45 44.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Table 10 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr Table 10. Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr kV uA 8 45 Range Contact Deep Contact Shallow 5cm Deep 30 cm Deep 100 Light 0.01 980 0.002 <0.001 44.4 Main 39 130 8.1 0.51 Table 11 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hr Table 11.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Figure 4.
2 Using Your Analyzer Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer Primary Radiation Primary radiation is radiation that is produced by the analyzer and emitted out through the kapton measurement window. Individuals should never place any part of their body in the primary beam path when the x-ray tube is on. There should always be a sample in contact with the measurement window when the x-ray tube is on.
2 Using Your Analyzer Proper and Improper Operation Shallow dose is often referred to as "skin dose" because it is a result of low penetrating radiation that only interacts with the skin. Shallow dose is limited to a maximum of 50 rem (500 mSv) per year in the United States and most countries internationally.
2 Using Your Analyzer Proper and Improper Operation 1. Stop using the instrument 2. Remove the battery. The x-ray tube can not produce radiation when the battery is disconnected. The instrument is now safe to handle. 3. Place the instrument securely in the holster. 4. Place the instrument in the carrying case that came with the instrument. 5. Notify your Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) or the equivalent responsible individual at your company or institution immediately. 6.
2 Using Your Analyzer Proper and Improper Operation Emergency Response Information Please Complete the Following Emergency Response Information and Keep with the Analyzer at All Times NITON ANALYZER EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION The Company RSO is:______________________________________ RSO Telephone Number:____________________________________ Regulatory Agency Emergency Number:________________________ Local Fire Department:______________________________________ Local or State Police Department:___________
2 Using Your Analyzer Proper and Improper Operation Registration and Licensing As a user of a Niton XL2 analyzer, you may be required to register or obtain a license with your local radiation control authority. In the US, if you intend to do work with your analyzer in states other than your own, you may be required to register there as well. See the Safety and Compliance Web Hub for much more information.
3 How to Analyze How to Analyze To analyze samples, from the main menu select sample type, and then click on the appropriate Mode icon. Once in the Selection Screen you have a number of sub-modes to select from. depending on how your instrument is calibrated. See the Example Path below.
3 How to Analyze General Analysis Figure 5. The Metals Analysis Menu Path (Example) Element Ranges and Lists From the Element Range Screen, select the Element List Button to display the Element List for the Range you want to use. This list shows the elements that the Range is best designed to detect. See Adjusting the Element Range for details. Figure 6.
3 How to Analyze General Analysis Verify that the date is set properly for data tracking purposes. From the Main Menu, select the System icon, then the Specs icon. The date will be displayed for verification. If the date is incorrect, correct it prior to proceeding. This can be done by “Closing” out of the Specs screen and selecting the Date & Time icon. Detailed information on this procedure is available in Setting the Date and Time.
3 How to Analyze General Analysis Figure 7. System Check Menu Path Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 analyzers are equipped with excitation filters that optimize the analyzers’ sensitivity for various elements. The “Main Range” filter provides optimum sensitivity for the elements manganese (Mn) through bismuth (Bi). The “Low Range” filter is used to optimize the sensitivity for the elements from titanium (Ti) through chromium (Cr).
3 How to Analyze General Analysis GENERAL TESTING PROTOCOL Good surface preparation is essential for obtaining accurate test results. All non- representative material (e.g., paint, coating, scale) must be removed prior to testing. An approximately 2-inch-square section of surface should be cleaned down to the material to be analyzed. See the Resource Guide for information on Sample Preparation.
3 How to Analyze General Analysis 28 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 2. Place the analyzer so the sample is covered by the analysis window.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 3. Select the Sample Type Icon. 4. Select the proper Mode (in this case Mining Cu/Zn) from the Mode Menu.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis Note See “Analysis Modes” on page 37. for more information on the Modes available. 5. Select the Analyze Icon.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 5a. Select Data Entryif you wish todo any data entry.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 5b and 5c. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 6. Initiate a Reading by pressing the trigger. 7. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, release the trigger.
4 Basic Operation Taking a Sample Analysis 8. View the composition returned.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes 9. Remove the sample. Analysis Modes Your analyzer has several Analysis Modes. Which Analysis Mode you should use depends on the nature of the sample you are attempting to analyze. General Metals Mode Use this mode to analyze samples entirely composed of metal alloys. This mode will attempt to return an Alloy Grade Identification by matching the analyzed composition of the sample with the nominal composition of alloys in the analyzer's Alloy Grade Library.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes Electronic Metals Mode Use this mode to analyze electronic component samples - circuit boards, chips, etc. This mode will attempt to return an Alloy Grade Identification by matching the analyzed composition of the sample with the nominal composition of electronic alloys in the analyzer's Alloy Grade Library. It will also return an elemental composition of the electronic alloy as analyzed.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes Mining Ta/Hf Mode Use this mode to analyze samples composed of potential metal ore - rock containing high proportions of metal - and containing Ta and/or Hf. This mode will return an elemental composition of the ore sample as analyzed. Ore Composition is output by default in terms of percent of composition by weight. See “Using Mining Ta/Hf Mode” on page 44.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes a. Select General Metals from the Mode Menu. 4. Select the Analyze icon. a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry. b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 5. Initiate the analysis. 6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis. 7. View the composition returned. 8. Remove the sample. Using Electronic Metals Mode 1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination. 2.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry. b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 5. Initiate the analysis. 6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis. 7. View the composition returned. 8. Remove the sample.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes Using Plastics Mode 1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination. 2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window. 3. Select the Mode icon. a. Select Plastics from the Mode Menu. 4. Select the Analyze icon. a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry. b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 5. Initiate the analysis. 6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes Using Mining Cu/Zn Mode 1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination. 2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window. 3. Select the Mode icon. a. Select Mining Cu/Zn from the Mode Menu. 4. Select the Analyze icon. a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry. b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 5. Initiate the analysis. 6.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes Using Mining Ta/Hf Mode 1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination. 2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window. 3. Select the Mode icon. a. Select Mining Ta/Hf from the Mode Menu. 4. Select the Analyze icon. a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry. b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 5. Initiate the analysis. 6.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes 2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window. 3. Select the Mode icon. a. Select TestAll Geo from the Mode Menu. 4. Select the Analyze icon. a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry. b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 5. Initiate the analysis. 6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis. 7. View the composition returned. 8. Remove the sample.
4 Basic Operation Analysis Modes 46 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Up until recently, sample preparation was not a big worry for XRF metals analysis, as the LOD of the analyzer was seldom low enough for any but the most heavy contamination to be intrusive; but recent developments such as He-purged analysis have brought analysis to a level where even light surface contamination can skew an analysis.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep • A Sample Grinder for removing deeper surface contamination. Choice of grinding wheel media also may be important, depending on what you are testing for. Never re-use grinding media, as contaminants can be transferred from sample to sample on the media itself. For light contamination on hard metal reference standards, remove the oxidation by scrubbing the dry sample lightly with the diamond paper square, using the fingers to maintain pressure.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Table 1. Comparative test results with and without grinding Test Results with Ground Surface 0.67 0.089 0.070 0.033 0.039 Test Results with Unground Surface 0.61 0.178 0.081 0.033 0.514 Painted Surfaces Paint is a mixture of several items that are combined into a liquid which is applied to the surface of materials such as metal. Once applied this liquid dries with time and adheres to the surface of metal.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Table 2. Prepped and unprepped painted metal analysis Sample Mn Ni Cr Mo Ti Zn Co Ground Surface 1.49 0.04 0.03 0.004 0.011 0.0001 0.03 Unground Surface 1.34 0.01 0.04 0.011 2.507 1.751 0.21 Oil, Grease & Cutting Oils Oil and grease contain a number of elements combined into a viscous substance and applied to moving parts in order to reduce friction. Grease coatings can remain on component surfaces after it has been removed from service.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Remember to follow safe techniques for handling and disposing of solvents and cleaning rags Anodized, Plated and Galvanized Surfaces Anodizing is the process of polarizing the metal surface into a passive state which protects it against corrosion. This process is most often applied to aluminum alloys. Galvanized steel is one of the most common of the coated surfaces. In this process, steel is passed through a molten bath of a zinc alloy.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Figure 1. Example of Right Angle Drill A disc holder is needed with the drill to hold the sanding disc. (In the US, we recommend a 3.0 inch disc holder. It has a 0.25 inch shank to insert into the chuck of the drill.) If sanding discs are ordered from a local supplier, attention should be paid to the method of attaching the sanding disc to the disc holder. There are three types of connections: metal snap-on, plastic twist and plastic snap-on.
5 Figure 2. Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Sanding Disc Before attaching the grinder and sanding disc as pictured below, first remove the battery to disable the grinder. Then insert the shaft of the disc holder into the drill and securely tighten the chuck. Next, attach the appropriate sanding disc. The method of attachment will vary depending upon the type of fastener on the sanding disc (snap-on or twist connectors). Reinstall the battery and prepare for use.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep 54 Figure 3. Attaching the Sanding Disc 1 Figure 4.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Cordless Angle Grinder A cordless angle grinder similar to the one pictured below will successfully remove medium to heavy oxidation or paint. This grinder (which uses a 4.5 inch sanding disc with a rubber backup pad) can be purchased from ThermoFisher or industrial tool manufactures like DeWalt, Makita or Milwaukee. Figure 5. Cordless Angle Grinder Kit A grinder kit typically contains the grinder, a battery, and charging unit.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Figure 6. Rubber Backing Pad and Nut In the US, sanding discs are 4.5 inch diameter and can be purchased in various grit sizes of 36 to 120. The surface abrasive can be one of the following materials: aluminum oxide, silicon carbide or zirconia alumina. The selection of sanding discs is covered in the next section.
5 Figure 7. Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Assembling the Grinder Remove the battery before assembling the grinder, backup pad and sanding disc. Start by installing the backup pad onto the drive shaft of the grinder, or, with some backup pads. You will need to screw it onto the threaded shaft. Next place the sanding disc over the drive shaft onto the backup pad. Hold the locking button on the reverse side of the grinder while tightening the retaining nut into the hole of the sanding disc.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep Aluminum oxide is the most common abrasive surface used today. For most applications it will be safe to use aluminum oxide discs. But if test results for aluminum in any metal alloy are significantly higher than expected, switch to another type of abrasive disc. Also, when grinding aluminum, aluminum oxide discs tend to trap aluminum from the metal surface into the disc surface. Once this happens, the disc looses its efficiency and cross contaminates the next sample.
5 Common Operations Metal Sample Prep • Replace any damaged or torn sanding discs immediately. • Always wear impact eye protection to prevent eye damage from flying debris. • Place small samples or standards in a clamping device when grinding to prevent accidental contact between the spinning disc and your hand. • Use proper techniques and safety precautions when grinding beryllium, beryllium copper, lead, or titanium alloys.
5 Common Operations Soil Sample Prep Soil Sample Prep Examine the site for differences in surface characteristics before sampling. Valid results depend on a sufficient and appropriate selection of sites to sample. Incorrect sample collection may give rise to misleading or meaningless results, regardless of the analysis method. Delineate sections with different characteristics and treat them as different areas.
5 Common Operations Soil Sample Prep Sample Preparation Prior to analysis, the material should be dry and well homogenized. Ideally, the entire sample should be dried to constant weight, sifted to remove gravel and debris, and ground or milled to a fine powder. Dry the sample if it is moist and cohesive. The sample can be dried in any of several ways. Choose one of the following: • Oven dry the sample for approximately 2 hours at 150° C, until the sample reaches a constant weight.
5 Common Operations Soil Sample Prep The container used to hold the sample will affect the accuracy of the measurement. Use a container with as thin-walled a window as is convenient and use the same kind of container and window for each sample. Consistency and careful attention to detail are keys to accurate measurement. PLACE FILM Place a circle of polypropylene film on top of an XRF sample cup. This film goes on the end of the cup with the indented ring.
5 Common Operations Soil Sample Prep PLACE FILTER Place a filter-paper disk on the sample after tamping it. STUFF CUP Fill the rest of the cup with polyester fiber stuffing to prevent sample movement. Use aquarium filter or pillow filling as stuffing. A small supply of stuffing comes with your bulk sample kit. CAP CUP Place a cap on your cup. LABEL CUP Place a label on teh cup. Using a pen with indelible ink, write identifying information on the cup.
5 Common Operations Preparing Mining Samples Preparing Liquids and Sludge Liquids Fill an XRF sample cup with the liquid to be tested (do not pad the sample with cotton). The cup must be full so it is best if some liquid is allowed to overflow when the cap is put on. Sludge Sludge can be placed directly into an XRF cup for screening. This is considered in-situ testing because no attempt has been made to prepare the sample. For more accuracy, the sludge can be dried, sieved, and ground.
5 Common Operations Setting Up Beep Times 3. Weight 1.0g of calcinated sample into fusion crucible add 5.0 g of lithium tetraborate and 0.3 lithium fluoride, and 10-20 mg lithium bromide as a nonstick agent. 4. Fuse in a fluxer for at least 4 min in the flame. 5. The resulting disk is released from the mold, cooled, then presented to the spectrometer. Specimen Preparation - Pressed Powder Briquette Preparation 1.
5 Common Operations Sorting the Custom Element Display Third Beep This option allows you to change the seconds of delay before the Third Beep. Select the screen button labeled with the number of seconds of delay for the Third Beep. The Beep Three Time editor will open. Clear the current number of seconds with the "C" button, then select the E button to enter the information.
5 Common Operations Max Measure Time Report Settings Under Electronics Metals, Plastics, and Test All Modes, A field called Report Settings is available. Selecting the triangle next to the Report Settings Field will open a pop up menu allowing you to choose between the three Report Settings Modes. Select the mode you wish to edit. Changing the settings for one analysis mode will not affect the settings for other modes, and the configurations can be saved independently.
5 Common Operations Virtual Keyboard Virtual Keyboard Whenever you see the Keyboard Icon, you can select it to bring up a Virtual Keyboard on your touch screen. Generally, selecting the keys on the Virtual Keyboard will type the corresponding character into the field. The exceptions are the meta-keys Del, Clear, Left, Right, Shift, Backspace, Cancel, and Enter.
5 Figure 8. Virtual Keyboard Figure 9. Shifted Virtual Keyboard Common Operations Virtual Keyboard Del Del is the Delete Key. Selecting this key will delete the character to the left of the cursor. Clear Clear is the Clear Key. Selecting this key will clear all characters from the field. Left Left is the Left Cursor Key. Selecting this key will move the cursor one space to the left. Right Right is the Right Cursor Key. Selecting this key will move the cursor one space to the right.
5 Common Operations Virtual Keyboard Backspace Backspace is the Backspace Key. Selecting this key will delete the character to the right of the cursor. Cancel Cancel is the Cancel Key. Selecting this key will return you to the normal screen without inputting your changes into the field. Enter Enter is the Enter Key. Selecting this key will return you to the normal screen, replacing the former contents of the field with the changes you have made.
5 Common Operations Setting Display Units Setting Display Units Select the Display Units radio buttons on the Set Display Units page to choose between ppm (parts per million) and percentage (hundredths of whole) displays when taking readings, and to change the Sigma value you want for the reading. In the Display Units area, you can select between Percent composition and Parts per Million as the units displayed in a measurement, and you can change this setting independently for any mode.
5 Common Operations Setting Display Units Adjusting the Sigma Values The sigma values are listed in the column headed with the Greek letter "sigma". The default value is 2 sigma. You can change this value by selecting the down arrow next to the value, which opens up a drop-down menu from which you can select the desired sigma value by clicking on it. Figure 10.
5 Common Operations Adjusting the Element Range Adjusting the Element Range Figure 11. Adjusting the Element Range Multi-Range tests are used to either preferentially excite specific elements for increased sensitivity, or to cover a wider element range than one Range alone can provide. Most modes, when enabled, will use several Ranges in sequence to produce a combined analysis result.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time In typical metals analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements. You cannot deselect the Main Range in metals analysis. Low Range is utilized for the subsequent high sensitivity analysis of V, Ti, and Cr. Select the Element List Button - labeled with a question mark - to display the Element List for that Range. This list shows the elements that the Range is best designed to detect.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time Figure 13. The Date & Time Screen When the Date & Time button is selected, the Date & Time Screen comes up on your analyzer’s LCD Screen. You may change the Month, Year, Date, Hour, and Minute on your analyzer.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time Changing the Month To change the month, select the downward pointing triangle button next to the month displayed. A drop down menu will appear, listing the months of the year in order of appearance. Figure 14. Month Drop Down Menu Select the month you want from the drop down menu, using the vertical slider button to display hidden months. The display will change to show the month you selected.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time Changing the Year To change the year, select the downward pointing triangle button next to the year displayed. A drop down menu will appear, listing the years in order of appearance. Figure 15. Changing the Year Select the year you want from the drop down menu, using the vertical slider button to display hidden years. The display will change to show the year you selected.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time Changing the Date To change the date, select the date you want from the Date Selection Screen. The date you selected will be highlighted in red, while the old date will be shown in red numbers. Figure 16.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time Changing the Hour and Minute To change the hour, select the hour numbers. The hour numbers will be highlighted in gray. Then select the Upwards Pointing Chevron Button to increment (increase) the hour, or the Downward Pointing Chevron Button to decrement (decrease) the hour. Figure 17. Changing the Hour To change the minute, select the minute numbers. The minute numbers will be highlighted in gray.
5 Common Operations Setting the Date and Time Figure 18. Changing the Minute Saving Your Changes To save your changes, select the "Save" screen Button. The display will return to the previous screen and the Date and Time will be saved. Exiting Without Saving To exit the screen without saving changes, select the "Cancel" Screen Button. The display will return to the previous screen and the Date and Time will not be saved.
5 Common Operations Calibrating the Touch Screen Calibrating the Touch Screen Figure 19. Initiating Touch Screen Calibration Select the Calibrate Touch Screen button from the System Screen to re-calibrate the analyzer's touch screen display. This procedure establishes the display boundaries for the touch screen interface. 1. Select the Touch Screen icon. 2. The display will show a message asking you to confirm whether or not you want to calibrate your Touch Screen. Select the Yes button. 3.
5 Common Operations Calibrating the Touch Screen 9. Once you have confirmed the parameters, the System Menu will be displayed. The screen is now calibrated. Figure 20. Touch Screen Calibration Crosses The Touch Screen can be calibrated - and the system operated - with a USB mouse plugged into the USB ports in the rear of teh analyzer.
6 Data Management Viewing Data Data Management Viewing Data Figure 21. The View Data Menu Path Use the Data Screen to view previously taken test result readings. When the View Data icon is selected, the Results screen of your most recent test is shown on the Touch Screen.
6 Data Management Viewing Data Figure 22. The View Data Screen Using the buttons on the control panel, you may view different readings or additional data for individual readings. Your analyzer will display the standard screen analysis. Pressing the Down Button on the 4-way touch pad will display a complete scrolling elemental chemistry listing. Each press of the Down Button scrolls the screen down to the next element.
6 Data Management Viewing Data Figure 24. Standard, High-to-Low, and Low-to-High Composition Sorts Element Sorts Element sorts are performed alphabetically based on the element symbol. Composition Sorts Composition sorts are performed numerically based on the percentage of composition, i.e. from lowest to highest concentration, or by toggling again, from highest to lowest. Error Sorts Error sorts are performed based on the size of the error in the reading, i.e.
6 Data Management Viewing Data Figure 25. Element, Composition, and Error Sorts Spectrum Graph For any reading result, simply use the NAV Menu to gain access to the reading’s spectrum graph. Selecting Spectra will show a graphed spectrum of this reading, called SpectraView. SpectraView can be a useful tool for rapid, qualitative analysis of a sample. See Viewing the Spectrum for details.
6 Data Management Viewing Data Figure 26. The SpectraView Screen Viewing the Spectrum SpectraView SpectraView enables you to to visually inspect the fluorescent x-ray peaks obtained from any sample and qualitatively identify them using the on-board software. In SpectraView Mode, the spectrum is displayed using a linear energy scale along the x-axis, with the count rate autoscaled logarithmically on the y-axis so that the highest peak on the screen reaches the top of the scale.
6 Data Management Viewing Data • Ka, Kb, La, Lb, and/or Lg peaks of the three elements closest to where your cursor is positioned on the energy scale (Bottom Right). This information is written with the element symbol first, followed by either Ka (K shell alpha peak), Kb (K shell beta peak), La (L shell alpha peak), La (L shell beta peak), or Lg (L shell gamma peak). An example would be "Al Ka 1.48." To determine if a given element is present, look at the count rate at that cursor position.
6 Data Management Viewing Data Figure 29. Area of Interest Fit to the Display The view of the spectrum will change to show only the area of interest. Multiple Ranges SpectraView can display any individual spectra, including those obtained from multiple Ranges (filters) if you are using more than one Range. Use the NAV Menu to select which spectrum to view. The Spectra1 choice will display the spectrum produced by the first Range. The Spectra2 choice will display the spectrum produced by the second Range.
6 Data Management Viewing Fingerprints Viewing Fingerprints Figure 30. The View Fingerprints Menu Path Select the View Fingerprints icon to view data saved as reference sample Fingerprints in Teach Fingerprint Mode. When the View Fingerprints icon is selected, the Results Screen of your most recent Teach Fingerprint is shown on the Touch Screen display.
6 Data Management Erasing Data Figure 31.
6 Data Management Erasing Data Figure 32. The Erase All Data Menu Path Select the Erase All Data icon to erase all data, including signatures and readings, from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase All Data icon will bring up a confirmation screen asking you “Are you sure?” with options to select “YES” or “NO”. Selecting the Yes Button will erase all data from your analyzer. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Erase Menu. Figure 33.
6 Data Management Erasing Data The Erase Readings Screen Figure 34. The Erase Readings Menu Path Select the Erase Readings icon to erase all accumulated test readings from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase Readings icon will bring up a confirmation screen asking you “Are you sure?” with options to select “YES” or “NO”. Selecting the Yes Button will erase all test reading data from your analyzer. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Erase Menu.
6 Data Management Erasing Data Figure 35. The Erase Readings Confirmation Screen Note - We recommend that you download all your readings into an NDT file for recording purposes before erasing all data.
6 Data Management Erasing Data The Erase Fingerprints Screen Figure 36. The Erase Fingerprints Menu Path Select the Erase Fingerprints icon to erase all accumulated alloy fingerprints from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase Fingerprints icon will bring up a confirmation screen asking you “Are you sure?” with options to select “YES” or “NO”. Selecting the Yes Button will erase all fingerprint data from your analyzer. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Erase Menu.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Figure 37. The Erase Fingerprints Confirmation Screen Managing Libraries Figure 38. The Manage Libraries Menu Path Select the Manage Libraries icon to access the Library Management Menu. The Library Management Menu allows you to view and modify data in the Primary Library as well as the currently loaded alternate libraries. Just select the library you wish to view or editfrom the list on screen.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Figure 39. Viewing the Libraries The entries in the Grade Library serve as a reference for chemistry based analysis. The library entries allow the analyzer to work properly “out of the box” without needing time-consuming pre-analysis. Figure 40.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Using the Library Editor The Library Editor enables you to edit any library to conform to your specifications. Alloy Name Button Selecting the Alloy Name Button sorts the alloy list alphanumerically. (Name in List) Selecting the actual name of the alloy - i.e. “Fe/CS” - will bring up the Element Specification Screen. Add Button Selecting the Add Button will add a new alloy to the Library.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Figure 42. Confirmation Screen Selecting the Yes Button will delete the alloy from the list. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Alloy List. Save Button Selecting the Save button will save the current Library. Close Button Selecting the Close button will close the current Library without saving it. The Element Specification Screen The Element Specification Screen allows you to edit the elemental content of any alloy.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Figure 43. The Element Specification Screen Library Name This is the name of the library you are editing. Make sure you are editing the correct library before proceeding further. Alloy Name This is the name of the alloy you are editing. Make sure you are editing the correct alloy before proceeding further. Element to be Edited This is the element you need to edit for this alloy.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Figure 44. The Minimum Editor This is a standard Virtual Numerical Keypad. The C Button will clear the current display, The < Button will backspace one space, and the E Button will enter this number as the minimum. After selecting the E Button, you will be returned to the Element Specification Screen. Maximum Percentage This is the highest amount of the element in question you want to be in the alloy.
6 Data Management Managing Libraries Figure 45. The Maximum Editor This is a standard Virtual Numerical Keypad. The C Button will clear the current display, The < Button will backspace one space, and the E Button will enter this number as the minimum. After selecting the E Button, you will be returned to the Element Specification Screen. OK Button Selecting the OK button will save the edited library.
7 Connectivity Connectivity This section discusses how to connect your computer and your analyzer, for data transfer and integration, translation to other formats, data storage and security, as well as controlling your analyzer remotely through your computer. Connection can be achieved via USB, serial, and/or Bluetooth wireless means. Your analyzer comes with software which facilitates these uses, and works together with your analyzer to increase your productivity and efficiency.
7 Connectivity 2. Click on “Control Panel” and locate the “Device Manager”. If it is not available directly under “Control Panel”, look under “System and Security” then “System”.
7 Connectivity 3. Open “Device Manager” 4. Plug in instrument using the USB cable provided 5. Message will appear “Device Driver Software Not Successfully Installed” 6. In “Device Manager”, “Unknown Device” will appear under “Other Devices” 7.
7 Connectivity 8.
7 Connectivity 9. Click “Browse” button; select CD drive or the location of the driver if you are not installing from the NDT CD (recommended). 10. Click “OK” 11.
7 Connectivity 12. A Security Dialog Box will appear. Select “Install This Driver Software Anyway?” 13. Driver will install; close out.
7 Connectivity Using Your Analyzer With Your PC Using Your Analyzer With Your PC Using the Wireless (Bluetooth) USB Adapter to Connect the XRF Analyzer Figure 46. The Bluetooth Setup Menu Path The USB adapter provided by Niton uses Bluetooth wireless technology. See Setting up Bluetooth to set up Bluetooth. Select the Bluetooth icon from the System Screen to set up your analyzer for Bluetooth wireless connection.
7 Connectivity Using Your Analyzer With Your PC i Icon Figure 47. BT Information Screen Selecting the i Icon in the top right of the Bluetooth Setup Screen will open the Bluetooth Information Screen. The Bluetooth Information Screen will supply the current name as well as the MAC address of your analyzer Search Button Selecting the Search Button will initiate a search for currently available Bluetooth devices in the area.
7 Connectivity Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC Figure 48. Bluetooth Searching After the search, your analyzer will report which Bluetooth devices it has found in the main window of the screen. You can connect your PC and analyzer two different ways, from the analyzer to the PC, and from the PC to the analyzer. Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC After searching, select the PC you would like to connect to from the main window of the screen. Select the Connect Button.
7 Connectivity Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC Figure 50. Connecting Via Bluetooth Connect Button Select a located Bluetooth device from the Search List, then select the Connect Button to connect to that device. GPS Button Select the GPS Button to download GPS data from a connected GPS Device.
7 Connectivity Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC Figure 51. Bluetooth GPS Data Screen Reset Button Selecting the Reset Button initiates a Bluetooth reset.
7 Connectivity Using a USB Cable to Connect Your Analyzer Figure 52. Bluetooth Config Screen Selecting the Config Button will load the Config Screen. This screen enables you to se the name of the currently selected Bluetooth device, change the type of device, see that device's COD Number, and see that device's MAC Address. Changing the Bluetooth Device Type Select the Down Arrow button next to the Type field to change the type of device connected. Select the proper type from the drop down menu.
7 Connectivity Using a USB Cable to Connect Your Analyzer Figure 54. Standard USB Connector 2. Open the Port Cover on the XRF Analyzer. 3. Turn on the analyzer and insert the mini USB connector on the USB cable into the USB port in the handle of the XRF Analyzer. 4. Upon initial installation, insert the NDT disk located behind the foam in your case. Follow the prompts and install the USB driver located on the disk. Figure 55.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Downloading Data Standard Download To download data you have collected offline: 1. Make sure that the XRF Analyzer is connected to your computer. See “Using Your Analyzer With Your PC” on page 109for more information. 2. Turn on the XRF Analyzer. See the manual for the XRF Analyzer for more information. Note Wait at least 30 seconds after turning on the XRF Analyzer to begin downloading files. The System Start screens do not allow downloading. 3. Start Niton Data Transfer.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Figure 57. The Test Button 6. You should get a pop-up window informing you that the connection tested successfully. If the test fails, there is a problem with your serial port setup. Figure 58. Connection Success Window 7. In the Download dialog box, click the Connect button. Figure 59. The Connect Button 8. Click the Query Readings button. This will return a list of all current readings on your analyzer. The list appears in the large white box in the Download dialog box.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Figure 60. Current Reading List 9. Select the readings that you want to download. There are two ways to do this. a. Click the boxes next to each of the reading numbers to select or de-select individual readings. You can select a range of readings by pressing the shift key, then selecting the first and last reading in the range. All readings from the first reading selected to the last will then be selected. Figure 61. Selecting Readings b.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Figure 62. Using Check Boxes 10. The download generates a data file containing the selected readings. To save the file for later use: c. Enter the path for the file in the Destination Folder field. You can use the ... button to browse. Figure 63. The Browse Button d. Enter a name for the file in the File Name field. CAUTION Some characters are not allowed in the file name. Characters such as the "#" sign will cause an error.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Figure 64. The Download Button When the progress bar shows that all the readings are downloaded, click the Done button.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Figure 65. The Progress Bar You should now see the readings you selected for download displayed, one reading per horizontal line. The data has been saved to the folder and filename you indicated prior to downloading. If an error message has appeared, see the following section. You can also automatically save reports in .csv format for importing into Excel or other programs.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data Table 4: Error Messages while Downloading Incorrect Data in reading # XXX. Reading will be skipped. Error code: BOUNDARY_ERROR3. This indicates a version mismatch between your instrument code and the NDT code running on your computer. Use a version of NDT that matches the ver?sion number of the software on your analyzer. WARNING: 115200 baud rate not supported. This indicates a potential problem. Test the serial port.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data 2. When you disconnect, then reconnect, your analyzer, Download appends future readings to same file. 3. Live Download does not overwrite any previous readings in the file. If you want to do this, you must first explicitly erase the file before initiating Live Download. 4. Live Download does not retroactively add any readings taken while your analyzer was disconnected.
7 Connectivity Downloading Data 124 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC The NDTr program allows you to completely control your Niton analyzer remotely, from your computer. It works over serial or USB connection over the supplied connector, or Bluetooth wireless communication. See Using Your Analyzer With Your PC for details on how to connect your Analyzer and PC. The NDTr Toolbar The NDTr Toolbar is a string of icons along the top of the NDTr window. It looks like this: Figure 68.
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC Disconnect Clicking this icon will disconnect your computer from your analyzer. Live Download See Live Download from NDTr Configure Connection Settings Clicking on the Configure Connection Settings icon allows you to change the Com Port for connecting your computer to your analyzer. Once you click on the icon, a settings dialog box will appear. Figure 69.
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC Operating Your Analyzer Remotely NDTr version 7 and above will automatically select the proper virtual interface for you, whether you have a Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 or XL3. The virtual interface operates exactly as the analyzer would. Selecting the buttons, icons and menus with your mouse works exactly as if you were selecting them with your finger or stylus on the real analyzer. Figure 71.
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC Figure 72. File Dialog Box Dest Folder This field shows the last used save folder, defaulting to the folder where NDT is installed. ... (Browse Folders) Button Selecting this button enables you to select a different folder for saving the file. This will change the Dest Folder Field. Selected File This shows the filename the reading will be saved to unless you change it. ...
Learning More, Service, and Support This section of the Resource guide is about getting the most out of your analyzer. We cover troubleshooting your analyzer by using the Specs screen. We also cover advanced topics like setting thresholds, using the Tools menu, correcting for light elements in the sample composition, setting up pass/fail analysis, changing safety and start/stop parameters, and many other special situations you may need.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Replacing the Measurement Window Figure 2. Removing the Old Window • Measurement Windows come in two types - Prolene (P.N 187-1454) for 900 Series analyzers, and Polypropylene (P/N 187-1555) for all other analyzers. . Figure 3. Polyethylene Window P/N 187-1555 .
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Replacing the Measurement Window Figure 4. Prolene Window PN 187-1454 • When the bracket is clean, remove the backing from the Measurement Window. Place the window on the Bracket gently. Make sure the opaque portions of the window do not intrude over the large measurement hole in the Bracket. Figure 5.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting Tips and Troubleshooting The Specs Screen Figure 7. The Specs Screen Menu Path Select the Specs icon from the System Menu to display the analyzer's specifications. These specifications include your analyzer's serial number, software and firmware versions, and other data. Press the Close Screen Button to return to the previous menu.
8 Figure 8. Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting The Specifications Screen On the Specs Screen, standard information on the state of your analyzer is shown for your reference. This information should be reported to Service if there is a problem. Specs Information The following is the information supplied on the Specs Screen: Instrument Specific Serial Number This is located in the left part of the blue band at the top of the screen.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting FPGA This is the currently loaded FPGA software version, which should be reported to Service if there is any problem. FPGA versions are always a four digit number. Any other number of digits may be a sign of a problem in the FPGA code. Factory QC This is the date that the machine was QCed at the factory. Energy Cal This line notes the last time a System Check was performed.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting Diagnostics Select the "->" Screen Button to load the Diagnostics Screen. The Diagnostics Screen shows Detector Temperature, Bias, Cooler Voltage, SubBias, Energy Scale, and Temperature in C and F scales. The Diagnostics Screen can be of great utility in assuring proper operation of your analyzer. Figure 10. The Diagnostics Screen The proper ranges of operational values on the Diagnostics Screen follow.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting SubBias: SubBias should be within this range: -11 + or - 3 Escale: Escale should be within this range: 6.6 through 9.0 Preamp: Preamp value should only be noted, and reported to Service if there is a problem.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting Error Messages The analyzer will auto-detect many perceived hardware problems and may display the following error messages: Figure 11. The Specs Screen Menu Path Please re-run the System Check and if the problem persists, contact customer service.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Tips and Troubleshooting Registration and Licensing FAQ As a user of a Niton XL2 analyzer, you may be required to register or obtain a license with your local radiation control authority. In the US, if you intend to do work with your analyzer in states other than your own, you may be required to register there as well. Below is a list of commonly asked questions that come up when filling out registration forms.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL2 Analyzer A: One. Q: What is the analyzer serial number? A: The serial number is a 5 digit number located on the yellow sticker on the underside of your analyzer. Q: What is the tube serial number? A: The serial number of the tube can be found on the Calibration Certificate. Q: What is the type of X-Ray Processing? A: None. Niton XL2 analyzers do not use film.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL2 Analyzer Figure 12. The Niton Carrying Case All padlocks are shipped with a default combination of “0-0-0”. If you change this combination, please inform Thermo of the new combination if you return the unit for service. To change the combination: 1. Dial the default combination to open the lock, and pull out the shackle. 2. Rotate the shackle 180 degrees and push it down as far as it can go. 3.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL2 Analyzer CAUTION In most cases, no notification is required if transporting within state boundaries. This may not be the case when entering federal properties. CAUTION Within the United States, always keep a copy of the US DOT compliance statement in your Niton analyzer case at all times. A copy is included with your analyzer.
8 Learning More, Service, and Support Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL2 Analyzer 142 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
Advanced Settings Adjusting the Element Range Figure 1. The Range Menu Path (Main) Multi-Range tests are used to either preferentially excite specific elements for increased sensitivity, or to cover a wider element range than one Range alone can provide. Most modes, when enabled, will use two Ranges in sequence to produce a combined analysis result.
8 Advanced Settings alloy analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements, Low Range is utilized for the subsequent high sensitivity analysis of V, Ti, and Cr, and Light Range is available only with 900 series GOLDD technology analyzers, and is typically used in light element analysis. Multi-Range switching can be set to activate off time alone, or, when time switching is disabled, off settings in the General Metals grade library.
8 Figure 3. Advanced Settings The Element Checkboxes Select the checkbox next to the Range you want to use to determine exactly which of the Ranges contained in your Analyzer is used for sample testing. Selecting an empty checkbox will enable that range and place a check into the box as an indicator. Selecting a checked box will disable the Range and clear the box. In typical alloy analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements.
8 Advanced Settings Figure 4. The Range Element Lists Select the Element List Button to display the Element List for that Range. This list shows the elements that the Range is best designed to detect.
8 Figure 5. Advanced Settings The Range Time Fields Select the Range Time field for the intended range to change the switch time for that range. The Range Time Editor will appear. This enables you to set the number of seconds each enabled range is allotted before auto-switching will occur when needed during sample testing.
8 Advanced Settings Figure 6. The Range Time Editor Select the C button to clear the current time, then from the virtual numeric key pad, select each digit you want to input, then select the E button to enter.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Tools Menu Options The following options can be performed from the Tools Menu. Options which are only on the main Tools Menu are listed as (Main). Those which can be found only on the alternate Tools Menu are listed as (Alt). Avg Forward Enables you to average different readings together from this analysis forward. Select the Avg Forward button to initiate future sample averaging.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Figure 7. Example Averaging Screens Avg Back (Alt) Note The alternate Tools Menu is only available when viewing readings, and the menu is only accessible through the touch screen interface or NDTr.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Enables you to average different readings together from this analysis backward. Select the Avg Back option to initiate backwards sample averaging. Avg Back will take the number of readings you select and average their analytical results. The range is counted from the last reading backward by the number of readings selected. If your last reading was #15, selecting 3 would average readings #13, 14, and 15.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Figure 9. Example Analysis Screen Showing Live Spectrum Print (Alt) Select the Print option from the Tools Menu to print the current analysis screen to any attached portable printer. If you do not have a portable printer attached to your analyzer, nothing will happen. Set Pass/Fail You can set up your analyzer to sort on a pass/fail basis. Pass/Fail uses the chemistry of a user-generated list of alloys in the library as a basis for comparison.
8 Figure 10. Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Set Pass/Fail Screen Add/Remove (Toggle) Select alloys from the Available list and then the Add Button to move the alloy to the Selected List. Select alloys from the Selected list and then the Remove Button to remove the alloys from the Selected List. Save Select the Save Button to save these criteria. Close Select the Close Button to exit without saving. Pass Select the Pass Single button to initiate Pass Mode.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Setting the Reference Alloys for Pass or Fail Before you use Pass or Fail mode, you need to set the Reference Alloys. Select the alooy or alloys from the slide down menu on the Pass Fail Setup Screen, then select the Add button. Figure 11. . The Pass Fail Setup Screen Searching for Reference Alloys Select the Search button to search the library for the alloy you want as your Reference Alloy. Figure 12.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Type the name of your reference alloy into the Virtual Keyboard, and the left column will display any matches. Select the match you want and the Add button to make it your reference alloy. Figure 13. Search Results UHow Pass/Fail Mode Works Pass/Fail Mode compares the chemistry to that of the alloy(s) selected, using the cutoff you selected.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Switch Library (Main) Selecting the Switch Library button from the Tools Menu will swap the currently loaded library with the other library on the analyzer. Selecting Switch Library again will switch them back. Enable/Disable Al Normally, the collective amount of unquantifiable light elements in alloy analysis - the "balance" - is assumed to be aluminum and labeled as such in the analysis.
8 Figure 15.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options When to use Thickness Correction Thickness Correction should only be used during the analysis of plastic (polymer) objects. It has been experimentally verified that the correction algorithm will yield satisfactory results, for a 60 second minimum testing time, for samples as thin as 0.3mm. Nevertheless, the recommended range of use of the correction is from 1mm upwards.
8 Figure 17. Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options PVC Wire Insulation With Conductor Removed A piece of large diameter heat shrink tubing presents an interesting case. It is tempting to analyze this object as is - see Figure 39. However, one needs to know that while lead or bromine or chromium X-rays from the upper wall of tubing will not contribute to the signal measured, X rays of such elements as cadmium, antimony, tin or barium in the upper wall will significantly contribute to overall signal.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Enable/Disable Paint Selecting the Enable Paint option from the Tools Menu will enable the Painted Products mode and toggle the option to Disable Paint. Selecting the Disable Paint option will disable Painted Products mode and toggle the option to Enable Paint. Action Level Selecting the Action Level option from the Tools Menu will anable you to change the action level used for qualitative testing.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Passwords and User Privileges 1. Install the latest version of Niton software (NDT) on your PC, if possible. You may obtain the latest version of NDT by contacting service at 800-875-1578. 2. You can check the version number by opening NDT, selecting the Help menu, then selecting “About Niton Data Transfer” Figure 20. . 3. Select the File menu Figure 21. 4. Thermo Scientific Selecting Help Selecting File Select “New” then “New Password File”.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Figure 22. 5. Create a unique security key, then select the OK Button Figure 23. 6.
8 Figure 24. 7. User Account Creation Screen Right click, then select “New User” Figure 25.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options 8. Enter a user name and password, then select the privileges assigned to this user. Selecting the Check All check box will result in enabling all features. Figure 26. . Creating a User WARNING it is recommended that only users at the highest level have access to the “Safety” feature. This should be unchecked for all other operators.
8 Figure 27. 9. Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Unchecking Safety Select the Update Button Figure 28. User is Created a. You are now ready to upload your password file to the analyzer.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options 10. 11. Be sure the analyzer is switched on; connect the analyzer using USB or serial connection. Select the Upload icon. Figure 29. 12.
8 Figure 30. Selecting Upload 13. Select the Settings Button and choose the comm port that your analyzer is connect to. 14. Select the Connect Button, then the Upload Button. 15. Upon completion, you will receive a “File Upload Successfully Completed” message. 16. Thermo Scientific Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Click the OK Button; save your password file at this time by selecting the File icon then “Save As.
8 Advanced Settings Tools Menu Options Figure 31. 17. 168 Successful Installation Message Restart your analyzer; your password file should be successfully installed.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring NDF Files: User Data Structuring Creating New User-Defined Fields You can create your own data entry fields for your Niton analyzer customized to your own needs and usage. These fields are saved in a special format called an NDF (Niton Data File) file. To create a new NDF file, select the File menu, then select New, then select New NDF File. Figure 32.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 33. NDF File Work Area By right-clicking on this box, you can access a pop-up menu allowing you to set the mode of the new data fields. Select New Mode to access the menu. Figure 34. Selecting New Mode The Mode you select will be the Mode within which the new data entry fields will appear. If you have multiple Modes enabled on your analyzer, the new fields will only be available from the Mode you select.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 35. Selecting Mode When you select the Mode for the new data fields, the Construction Window will change to look like this: Figure 36. Working within a Mode The “M” indicates the mode you have chosen - in this case Alloy Mode. Right click on the Mode name to access a pop-up menu.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 37. Mode Pop-Up Menu Select New Field from the menu, and a blank new field will appear in the construction window. Figure 38. Adding a New Field Right clicking on the New Field box will bring up another pop-up menu. This menu gives you various options for using the field in your operations. Selecting Required makes it mandatory that the new field be filled in prior to taking a measurement.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 39. Making Fields Required Selecting the Incremental option sets up a field which increments the field descriptor by one for each measurement taken. This option is handy for measuring several items with identical descriptors, such as samples within a single lot, or several instances of the same part number, because it appends the incremental number to the descriptor. For example: P/N 455A2-1, P/N 455A2-2, P/N 455A2-3.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 40. Making Fields Incremental Selecting Clear Every Reading will toggle between two states. By default, the field will fill with the data which was input during the last reading. By selecting Clear Every Reading, you tell the instrument to clear the data from the field for each new reading, insuring that the person taking the reading must input new data each time.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 43. Field Status Window - Options Enabled This shows a field with both Required and Clear Every Reading options in effect. This presents a field that is cleared for each reading, and must be filled in by the user before a reading is taken. Selecting Edit from the pop-up menu allows you to edit the name of the field in the Editing Window to the right of the Construction Window. Figure 44.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 45. Toggling the Required Option Selecting Copy from the pop-up window allows you to copy the currently selected field.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 46. Copying the Current Field Once you copy a field, the Paste option can be selected to paste the copied field into the Construction Window. Figure 47. Pasting a Copied Field Selecting the New Entry option from the pop-up menu allows you to define a choice for the user for this field.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 48. Creating a New Entry This is a New Entry in the Construction Window. Figure 49. New Entry in the Construction Window The “E” is for “Entry.” You can edit the entry once it is created, the same way as you edit the field name. Right click on the entry name, and choose Edit from the pop-up menu. Figure 50.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 51. Sorting Entries To delete a field or entry, just right click on the item you wish to delete, and select Delete From the pop-up menu. Figure 52. Deleting Fields and Entries When you are finished creating your new NDF file, Upload it to your instrument using the Upload icon. Figure 53. Uploading the NDF File Make sure the instrument is connected to your computer by testing the connection first. Use the Test button on the Upload Window.
8 Advanced Settings NDF Files: User Data Structuring Figure 54.
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings Safety Settings Access to the Safety Settings Screen is blocked unless the user logging in has explicitly been granted Safety access. The default login of 1234 does not have Safety access. See Passwords and User Privileges. Figure 55. .
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings The Safety Settings Screen enables you to change the Method of Operation for your analyzer. Each checkbox on the screen enables or disables the safety device named for purposes of the preconditions for operation. For example, checking the Proximity Button Required checkbox sets the engagement of the Proximity Sensor as a precondition for operation.
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings Start/Stop Setup Figure 56. The Start/Stop Settings Menu Path The Start/Stop Setting Screen enables you to change the preconditions for operation at a lower level than the Safety level. See Safety Settings for more information. Start/Stop settings cannot contradict Safety settings. If your safety setting requires the use of the Proximity Button, you cannot set start-stop settings which ignore the Proximity Button.
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings The Start/Stop parameter options are Proximity Start, Remote Trigger, and Easy Trigger. There is also a field to set the maximum time for sample analysis before the analysis stops. Proximity Start Select the Proximity Start checkbox to use the Proximity Start parameters. Using Proximity Start, once the reading has been started, release of the Proximity Button will immediately stop the analysis. You cannot use Proximity Start with Easy Trigger.
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings Select the Max Time field to change the maximum analysis time parameter. Selecting the Max Time Field brings up a Virtual Numeric Keypad. To input the maximum number of seconds before automatic shutoff, select the C button to clear the current time, then from the Virtual Numeric Keypad, select each digit you want to input, then select the E button to enter. Of the non-numeric screen buttons, C = Clear All, E = Enter, and ">" will backspace over the current value.
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings Methods of Operation CAUTION After being powered on, your Niton Analyzer will perform an internal re-calibration before an analysis is initiated. It is recommended that you let your analyzer warm up for ten minutes after start up, before testing is begun.
8 Advanced Settings Safety Settings With any of these methods, analysis will stop if any one of the preconditions are violated. For example, with the Trigger-Interlock-and-Proximity-Sensor method, if the trigger or the Proximity Sensor or the Interlock is released, the reading will stop immediately, and the X-ray tube will shut down. After your analyzer is calibrated, initiate a sample reading using the appropriate method.
8 Advanced Settings Camera Camera The Camera feature is only usable with properly configured analyzers, and the Small Spot feature is only available on Small Spot analyzers. If your analyzer is equipped with an internal video camera, you can turn that camera on and off, and turn the saving of images with the readings on and off through an interface. When the camera is on, the image will show in the Ready to Test screen, as in Figure 123. If the camera is off, saving of images will also be off.
8 Thermo Scientific Advanced Settings Camera Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide 189
8 Advanced Settings Camera Figure 58. The Camera Menu Path Figure 59. Setting Up the Camera View and Image Saving Selecting the empty checkbox next to Enable Camera will turn the internal camera on, displaying the camera view in the Ready to Test screen. Selecting the checkbox again turns the camera off. Enable Camera is enabled by default. Selecting the empty checkbox next to Save Image will enable image saving with the analysis. Selecting the checkbox again will disable automatic saving of image data.
Service See “Contact Us” on page 1 to find your nearest Service facility. Warranty Warranty statement Seller warrants that the Products will operate or perform substantially in conformance with Seller's published specifications and be free from defects in material and workmanship, when subjected to normal, proper and intended usage by properly trained personnel, for the period of time set forth in the product documentation, published specifications or package inserts.
8 Service Warranty In no event shall Seller have any obligation to make repairs, replacements or corrections required, in whole or in part, as the result of (i) normal wear and tear, (ii) accident, disaster or event of force majeure, (iii) misuse, fault or negligence of or by Buyer, (iv) use of the Products in a manner for which they were not designed, (v) causes external to the Products such as, but not limited to, power failure or electrical power surges, (vi) improper storage and handling of the Produc
8 Service Warranty • Soil Grinder - no warranty • Single-stage or two stage helium tank regulator - 12 months • Test stands, extend-a-poles and docking stations – 12 months • Parts or spares sold, installed or supplied outside of the product warranty period and not listed above – 12 months Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide 193
8 Service Warranty 194 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
