Operation Manual: Dakota Ultrasonics

OPERATION MANUAL
DAKOTA ULTRASONICS
DFX-7
Ultrasonic Flaw Detector
(Manual 2 of 2)
P/N P-220-0002
Rev 1.1, April 2014
CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION ...................................................................... 1

CHAPTER TWO QUICK START GUIDE ............................................................ 3
CHAPTER THREE KEYBOARD, MENU, & CONNECTOR REFERENCE ......... 7
CHAPTER FOUR SETTING UP FOR MEASUREMENT .................................. 24
CHAPTER FIVE CALIBRATION ....................................................................... 36
CHAPTER SIX TRIGONOMETRY MODE ........................................................ 51
CHAPTER SEVEN AWS WELD INSPECTION ............................................. 56
CHAPTER EIGHT DISTANCE AMPLITUDE CORRECTION (DAC) ................ 61
CHAPTER NINE TIME CORRECTED GAIN (TCG) ......................................... 67
CHAPTER TEN DISTANCE, GAIN, SIZE (DGS) .............................................. 72
CHAPTER ELEVEN ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE DFX-7...................... 84
CHAPTER TWELVE DATA STORAGE SETUP, EDIT, & VIEW FILES ...... 110
CHAPTER THIRTEEN SETUPS CREATE, STORE, EDIT, & RECALL ...... 135
CHAPTER FOURTEEN USING THE UTILITY SOFTWARE .......................... 145
APPENDIX A - VELOCITY TABLE ................................................................. 147
APPENDIX B - SETUP LIBRARY ................................................................... 149
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
The Dakota Ultrasonics model DFX-7 is both, an ultrasonic flaw detector, as well as
an ultrasonic A/B Scan thickness scope, in a single unit. Its a combination of both
our CMX DL+, as well as our new DFX-7 flaw detector series. Why is this
advantageous? Thickness gauge are specifically setup to very accurately measure
thickness, locate pits, flaws and blind surface corrosion. All the linearity tables,
correction curves for various types of longitudinal transducers and features are built
with dimensional thickness as its primary focus. Flaw detectors are designed to
detect, size, position, and differentiate between flaw types in various materials and
welded joints. A flaw detector must be fast, in terms of its sample and screen refresh
rate, as inspectors are generally scanning the surface of a part or test specimen at a
relatively high speed, rather than looking for the thickness at a specific point or
location. While flaw detectors can also measure material thickness with reasonable
accuracy, they are not designed with precision thickness as their primary focus.
The DFX-7 combines the two types of gauges into one powerful and full featured
instrument, thats equipped with a number of comprehensive toolkits to provide the
user the arsenal necessary to address a number of common field applications. In
and effort to avoid complexity issues and differential between gauges types, this
manual focuses only on the flaw detector portion of the DFX-7.
Dakota Ultrasonics maintains a customer support resource in order to assist users
with questions or difficulties not covered in this manual. Customer support may be
reached at any of the following:
Dakota Ultrasonics Corporation

1500 Green Hills Road, #107
Scotts Valley, CA 95066 USA
Telephone: (831) 431-9722
Facsimile: (831) 431-9723
www.dakotaultrasonics.com
1.1 General Disclaimer
The manual should be read and understood prior to using the DFX-7. This operating
manual provides the user with all the general information necessary to use and
operate the features of the DFX-7. However, this manual is not a certified NDT
training course, nor is it intended to be one. Ultrasonic training for sound wave
theory, flaw detection and interpretation of defects is highly recommended, and will
be required by most companies and contract services. Contact the local NDT society
in your area to inquire about training available in your locality.
1.2 Electrical Warning

The DFX-7 contains a high voltage pulser. Its recommended that the gauge be
powered off prior to connecting or disconnecting your transducer, to avoid damaging
the DFX-7.
CHAPTER TWO
QUICK START GUIDE
This section will cover a basic quick start guide to initially get up and running with the
DFX-7 for demonstration purposes only. However, in order to use the gauge and
features for actual applications, a thorough review of this manual is recommended.
2.1 Gauge Type
Power up the DFX-7, by pressing the on/off key located in the bottom right corner of
the keypad. During initial boot up, a flash screen and lights will be displayed,
followed by a GAUGE TYPE selection screen. Since this manual will focus on the
flaw detector portion of the DFX-7, use the UP/DOWN arrow keys to select flaw
detector, followed by pressing the OK key start the DFX-7 in flaw mode. If this is the
first time the gauge has been used, a general startup configuration will automatically
be loaded and the DFX-7 is ready for general inspections. If this is not the first time
the gauge has been used, and the user would like to reload the basic default setup
parameters, refer to section 13.5 for further info.
Note: The default setup should only be considered as a basic setup. Proper
calibration and parameter settings should be done prior to an actual inspection.
2.2 Basic Flaw Setup Reference

The following table lists all the settings for the basic flaw setup:
PRB
Type: Single
CAL
Matl: Steel 1020
DISP
View: +Rect
TUNE
Filters: Wide
GT1
Alarm 1: On
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Pulse: Thin
Matl 1pt: Uncal
Delay: 0.000
Gain: 60
Detect: Above
Max PRF: 125
Matl 2pt: Uncal
Range: 5.011
Gain Step: 1.0
Gate 1: 0.484
Damping: 600
Velocity: .2320
Units: inches
Detect Mode: Z-Cross
Gate1 Width: INF
Pulser Volt: 200
Zero: 0.0
Brightness: 15
Threshold 1: 40%
Screen Update: 60Hz
Polarity 1: Positive
Colors: Green 2
Dim: Off
Rect Wave: Filled
Detect Mark: None
Note: The following features are set to off: GT2, TRIG, AWS, TCG, DAC, DGS.
2.3 Top & Submenu Reference

The following table is a quick menu reference guide. The DFX-7 has 15 top level
menu titles, and multiple submenu items as illustrated below. Refer to Chapter Three
for additional definitions and information on the keypad and menu items.
Start >>
PRB
CAL
DISP
TUNE
GT1
GT2
TRIG
AWS
TYPE
MAT
VIEW
FILTER
ALARM 1
ALARM
TRIG
AWS
PULSE
MATL 1PT
DELAY
GAIN
DETECT
DETECT
THICKNESS
REFERENCE
GAIN
MAX PRF
MATL 2PT
RANGE
GAIN STEP
GATE 1
GATE2
PROBE ANGLE
% SCRN
HEIGHT
DAMPING
VELOCITY
UNITS
PULSER
ZERO
DETECT
GATE1 WIDTH
GATE 2 WIDTH
X-OFFSET
BRIGHTNESS
THRESHOLD 1
THRESHOLD 2
CSC O.D.
SCREEN
POLARITY 1
POLARITY 2
VOLTAGE
UPDATE
COLORS
DIM
RECT WAVE
DETECT MARK
>> End
TCG
DAC
DGS
SET
DATA
UTIL
XFER
TCG
DAC
DGS
OPEN
NEW
AUTO FIND
BACKUP
SETUPS
DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

DRAW
DRAW
REF GAIN
SAVE
EDIT
KEY CLICK
RESTORE
SETUPS
SHOW CURVE
MEAS
TRIGGER
DELETE
OPEN
GAUGE
BACKUP DATA
EFF PROBE
DEFAULT
CLOSE
BACKUP DATA
DIA
SETUP
DELETE ONE
RESTORE
FILE
DATA
CURV
DELETE ALL
ABOUT
SIZE(ERS)
DATA
CURVE
% SCRN
SHOW CURVE
HEIGHT
TRIGGER
PROBE FREQ
LANGUAGE
CURVE
DPOLARITY
FIT
ATTENUATION
DELAY
VELOCITY
REF TYPE
REF SIZE
2.4 Loading the Default Setup

If the DFX-7 has previously been used, the basic default settings can be reloaded at
any time, as outlined below:
Load Default Setup
The following section assumes the gauge is powered up, the flaw detector
option selected, and the main measurement screen is being displayed.
Dakota Ultrasonics
1) Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU
key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until
the SET menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub menu items
until DEFAULT SETUP is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the confirmation screen.
4) Press the OK key to load the default setup and return to the measurement
screen.
CHAPTER THREE
KEYBOARD, MENU, & CONNECTOR REFERENCE
3.1 Menu Key (Operation & Sub Menus)

The Menu key activates the primary menu structure containing 15 menu tab groups.
These tab groups then contain sub menu items, or functions. The sub menu items
have been organized in the tab groups according to how closely they are related to
the individual tab group names. Lets first get familiar with how to move around in
these tabs before continuing on to the sub menu functions. This procedure is
outlined below:
Dakota Ultrasonics
Activating and Navigation of the Menu Items
key multiple times to tab right, and the ESC key multiple times to tab left
until the desired tab group is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
The tab groups are illustrated above (A).
Now that youre familiar with activating and moving amongst the tab groups,
lets have a look at how to move around in the sub menu items as follows:
until the desired function is highlighted. The sub menu items are illustrated
in the diagram above (B).
3) Depending on which function is highlighted, use the LEFT, RIGHT, and
Enter keys to scroll the options or activate the Digit Edit and List Box
options.
The sections to follow will provide the user with an explanation of the sub menu
functions:
3.2 Probe Menu

TYPE: Enables the user to select the type of transducer being used, either Single or
Dual.
PULSE: The DFX-7 has an adjustable pulse width for both high penetration and
resolution applications. The pulse width refers to the duration of time the pulser is
on. The options are Spike, Thin, and Wide. Refer to page 84 for a further
explanation.
MAX PRF: This feature controls the pulse repetition frequency of the DFX-7. The
maximum frequency is 333 Hz. However, the DFX-7 will automatically adjust the
PRF according to what the current delay and range settings have been adjusted to.
Larger the range, the slower the repetition frequency will automatically be set for.
Refer to page 85 for a further explanation.
DAMPING: The ability to control the amplifiers output impedance to match the
impedance of the transducer, and optimize overall transducer performance.
Adjustable at: 50, 100, 300, 600, 1500 ohms. Refer to page 86 for further info.
PULSER VOLTAGE: Adjustable pulser voltage: 100, 150, and 200 volt. Refer to
page 87 for a further explanation.
3.3 CAL Menu
MAT: Select the material velocity from a chart of basic material types when a known
sample thickness, or material velocity cannot be obtained. Refer to page 88 for a
further explanation.
MATL 1PT: Performs a single point calibration. Used in conjunction with the MATL
2PT option for the calibration process. Refer to page 36 for further info.
MATL 2PT: Performs a two-point calibration. This option allows the user to
automatically calculate the velocity by entering a second known sample thickness.
Refer to page 36 for further info.
VELOCITY: Function to calibrate the DFX-7 by setting the velocity to a known
material velocity. Refer to page 89 for further info.
ZERO: Used to zero the transducer and calibrate the screen. The DFX-7 is zeroed
in much the same way that a mechanical micrometer is zeroed. If the DFX-7 is not
zeroed correctly, all of the measurements made using the DFX-7 may be in error by
some fixed value. Refer to the section on page 36 & 90 , for further info.
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3.4 DISP (display) Menu

VIEW: Selectable RF, +RECT, -RECT, RECTFW views. Refer to page 24 for further
info.
DELAY: Provides the user the ability to change the start position of the A-SCAN
views. Refer to page 25 for further info.
RANGE: Provides the user the ability to change the overall range/depth of the
viewable measurement area. It functions a lot like a zoom on a camera. Refer to
page 25 for further info.
UNITS: Toggle between English or Metric units. The readout will change from
inches to millimeters.
BRIGHTNESS: AMOLED high speed color display. An arbitrary scale of 1-20 has
been implemented, with the brightest setting at 20. Refer to page 92 for further info.
SCREEN UPDATE: Toggles how fast the display will redraw. Options are 60Hz or
120Hz. The 60Hz option conserves battery life. Refer to page 93 for further info.
COLORS: Provides the user with a variety of different color schemes to select from.
There are two schemes for each main color option. Refer to page 94 for further info.
DIM: Allows the user to conserve battery life by diming the display after idle for a
specific amount of time OFF, 30, 60, 90, 120 seconds. Once dimmed, a single
press of any key will restore the screen brightness. Refer to page 96 for further info.
RECT WAVE: Provides the user an outlined or filled view option when the display
setting is in RECT (rectified) wave mode only. Refer to page 97 for further info.
DETECT MARK: Selectable graphics option for the point of detection on the
waveform: Line, Box, Dots, None. Offers the user a graphics preference on how
they prefer to view the detection on the waveform. Refer to page 99 for further info.
3.5 TUNE Menu

FILTER: The DFX-7 is a wide band flaw detector with a frequency range of 1.8 to 19
MHz (-3dB). The DFX-7+ is additionally equipped with selectable narrow band filters
at; 2, 5 & 10 MHz. Refer to page 99 for further info.
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GAIN: The DFX-7 has a 0-110dB gain range with 2dB resolution. This feature is
used to increase/decrease the strength or amplitude of the signal. This might easily
be considered as similar to turning the volume up or down on a stereo receiver.
GAIN STEP: Used to set the amount the GAIN is increased or decreased for each
key press. Step options of 0.2, 0.4, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0. Refer to page 100 for
further info.
DETECT: The DFX-7 is equipped with optional detection modes; PEAK, FLANK, or
Z-CROSS (zero crossing). This option allows the user to decide where the detection
is acquired on the waveform. Refer to page 102 for further info.
3.6 GT1 Menu

ALARM 1: Toggles the alarm function of gate 1; on, off, audible. The audible
feature sounds a beeper when the waveform breaks the threshold level, either above
or below, depending on the current DETECT setting. Refer to page 31 for further
info.
DETECT: Enables the user to set the alarm detection to occur either above or below
the gates threshold level. Refer to page 31 for further info.
GATE 1: Gates allow the user to view a specific inspection/measurement range, or
specific regions of the waveform, while ignoring others. In order to detect on a
waveform echo, and display the amplitude as a percentage of full screen height, the
echo must be inside the boundaries of the gate settings. The GATE1 feature adjusts
where the gate begins, according to the depth/thickness. Refer to page 31 for further
info.
GATE1 WIDTH: This feature allows the user to set the overall width of the gate, in
terms of distance, from the GATE1 setting. Refer to page 31 for further info.
THRESHOLD 1: Enables the user to set the sensitivity level of Gate1 to a calibrated
screen height percentage. The threshold level will act as a starting point for the
alarm trigger, and is directly associated with the DETECT setting outlined above.
POLARITY 1: The gates can be set to detect on either the positive or negative
polarity, or stroke, of the half or full wave cycle. It should be noted that if the VIEW is
set to positive, and the gate negative, the DFX-7 will not display an amplitude
percentage of full screen height. Refer to page 31 for further info.
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3.7 GT2 Menu

ALARM 2: Toggles the alarm function of gate 2; on, off, audible. The audible
feature sounds a beeper when the waveform breaks the threshold level, either above
or below, depending on the current DETECT setting. Refer to page 31 for further
info.
DETECT: Enables the user to set the alarm detection to occur either above or below
the gates threshold level. Refer to page 31 for further info.
GATE 2: Gates allow the user to view a specific inspection/measurement range, or
specific regions of the waveform, while ignoring others. In order to detect on a
waveform echo, and display the amplitude as a percentage of full screen height, the
echo must be inside the boundaries of the gate settings. The GATE2 feature adjusts
where the gate begins, according to the depth/thickness. Refer to page 31 for further
info.
GATE2 WIDTH: This feature allows the user to set the overall width of the gate, in
terms of distance, from the GATE2 setting. Refer to page 31 for further info.
THRESHOLD 2: Enables the user to set the sensitivity level of Gate2 to a calibrated
screen height percentage. The threshold level will act as a starting point for the
alarm trigger, and is directly associated with the DETECT setting outlined above.
POLARITY 2: The gates can be set to detect on either the positive or negative
polarity, or stroke, of the half or full wave cycle. It should be noted that if the VIEW is
set to positive, and the gate negative, the DFX-7 will not display an amplitude
percentage of full screen height. Refer to page 31 for further info.
3.8 TRIG Menu

TRIG: This feature toggles trigonometry feature on/off. This feature is used with
angle beam transducers for the inspection of welds, to calculate three
measurements: Beam path distance (), Surface distance (), and Depth () from
the index point of the transducer. Refer to page 51 for further info.
THICKNESS: Used to set the thickness of the test material. The thickness will be
used to determine which skip/leg the DFX-7 is detecting on. Refer to page 51 for
further info.
ANGLE: Used to set the angle of the transducer, and used in the calculations above.
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X-OFFSET: This feature is used to calculate the surface distance in the trigonometry
function, as is a physical measurement from the index point of the probe to the front
of the wedge/can/shoe/case. Refer to page 51 for further info.
CSC OD: Curved surface correction to compensate for changing sound path
distance and angle. This feature is used in conjunction with thickness in order to
calculate a correction factor. Refer to page 51 for further info.
3.9 AWS Menu

AWS: This feature toggles the AWS feature on/off. Used in the analysis of welds
according to American Welding Societys structural welding code D1.1-94, to
calculate the Indication Rating (IR). Refer to page 56 for further info.
REFERENCE GAIN: The gain (in dB) required to set the indication level to a specific
percentage of full screen height (FSH). This value will typically be set somewhere
between 20%90%. Refer to page 56 for further info.
% SCRN HEIGHT: This feature enables the user to set the reference level of the
TCG as a percentage of full screen height (FSH). Refer to page 56 for further info.
3.10 TCG Menu

TCG: This feature toggles the TCG feature on/off. The Time Corrected Gain (TCG)
feature displays reflectors of equal size at equal A-Scan amplitudes, regardless of the
reflectors depth in the test material. Refer to page 67 for further info.
DRAW: Toggles the DRAW mode on/off, and used to draw the TCG curve. Refer to
SHOW CURVE: Toggles the TCG correction curve on/off, and the curve is displayed
on the screen. Refer to page 67 for further info.
% SCRN HEIGHT: This feature enables the user to set the reference level of the
TCG as a percentage of full screen height (FSH). Refer to page 67 for further info.
3.11 DAC Menu
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DAC: Toggles the DAC feature on/off/audible. A Distance Amplitude Correction

(DAC) curve is used to configure a variable threshold for the gate, using the same
size reflector at different distances. Refer to page 61 for further info.
DRAW: Toggles the DRAW mode on/off/audible, and used to draw the DAC curve.
Note: TCG curve cannot be drawn in RF view. Refer to page 61 for further info.
MEAS: Toggles the units displayed as a relationship of either the signal amplitude
and DAC curve, or just the signal according to screen height. The units are as:
%FSH, %DAC, and dB. Refer to page 61 for further info.
CURVE: Selectable signal or multi DAC curve options. The displayed curve options
are: DAC, -2dB, -6dB, -10dB, (-6dB/-12dB), (-6dB/-14dB). Once the DAC curve has
been generated, these options can be toggled at any time. Refer to page 61 for
further info.
TRIGGER CURVE: Used to set the alarm threshold for the DAC curve. The options
are; at DAC, -2dB, -6dB, -10dB, -12dB, -14dB, or using an independent gate. The list
of trigger options will change according to which CURVE option has been selected.
DPOLARITY: Used to select the polarity of the DAC curves generated, either
positive or negative. Refer to page 61 for further info.
FIT: This feature allows the user to control the increment step size of the gain. Once
the step size is set, each time the UP or DOWN arrow keys are pressed, the gain is
incremented or decremented by the gain step setting. Refer to page 63 for further
info. FIX
3.12 DGS Menu

DGS: Toggles the DGS feature on/off. Distance Gain Size (DGS) curve is used to
configure a variable threshold for the gate using a single reflector using an empirically
derived set of curves. Refer to page 72 for further info.
REFERENCE GAIN: Toggles the DRAW mode on/off, and used to set the reference
gain from a given reference standard. Refer to page 75 for further info.
TRIGGER CURVE: Used to set the alarm to detect on either the DGS curve, or
independent GATE. Refer to page 75 for further info.
EFF PROBE DIAMETER: Used to set the effective probe diameter of either a round
or square/rectangular crystal element, and used as a variable to calculate the near
field length. Refer to page 73 for further info.
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PROBE FREQUENCY: Used to set the center frequency of the probe/transducer.
The frequency will either be scribed on the probe itself, and additionally listed on the
transducer certificate. Refer to page 75 for further info.
CURVE SIZE (ERS): Used to select the Effective Reflector Size that will be used
from the DGS/AVG chart. Refer to page 75 for further info.
ATTENUATION: Toggles the ATTENUATION on/off. The parameters in the sub
menu are used to compensate for additional factors that affect the propagation of
sound energy, based on the material, surface condition, and differences between the
reference standards versus test material. Refer to page 76 for further info.
DVK: Used to correct for increases in gain based on a curved reference
standard, to an actual back wall reflector. Refer to page 76 for further info.
MATERIAL LOSS: Used to correct for the loss of sound in attenuative
materials and applications inspections where sound will travel long distances.
REFERENCE LOSS: Used to compensate for the loss of sound in the
reference standard. Refer to page 76 for further info.
TRANSFER LOSS: Used to correct for the loss of sound based on the
surface of the actual test material. Refer to page 76 for further info.
DELAY VELOCITY: Used to set the longitudinal velocity of the transducer delay line,
for both angle & straight beam probes, to account for the proportion of the near field
length in the delay line. Refer to page 75 for further info.
REFERENCE TYPE: This option is used to set the type of reflector that will be used
during the setup and calibration process. The options are Back Wall, Side Drilled
Hole (SDH), or Flat Bottom Hole (FBH). Refer to page 75 for further info.
REFERENCE SIZE: If the reference type was set to SDH or FBH, the size of the
reflector must be entered. Refer to page 75 for further info.
3.13 SETUP Menu

OPEN: Displays a list of factory and user defined setups currently stored in memory.
These setups can be recalled and used at any time. Refer to page 135 for further
info.
SAVE: Provides the user with the ability to save a custom setup that has been
modified or created by the user. Refer to page 137 for further info.
DELETE: Provides the user with the ability to delete specific setups previously save
in memory. Refer to page 140 for further info.
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Dakota Ultrasonics
DEFAULT SETUP: Loads a basic default setup. Use only as a last resort when the
setups in the DFX-7 have been corrupted and a computer is not accessible. Refer to
LANGUAGE: Provides the user the ability to select different languages for the DFX7. Refer to page 144 for further info.
3.14 DATA Menu

NEW: Allows the user the ability to create a new alpha numeric grid, or sequential
log file with auto identifiers. It is equipped with custom parameters, rows, and
columns depending on the users application reporting requirements. Refer to page
111 for further info.
EDIT: Gives the user the ability to change parameters of grid or sequential file
previously saved. Note: Pre-defined coordinates cannot be changed once they have
been created. Refer to page 129 for further info.
OPEN: This function provides the user with the ability to recall grids or sequential log
files that currently exist in memory, from a list of grids. Refer to page 131 for further
info.
CLOSE: Provides the user the ability to close a currently opened grid or sequential
log file. Refer to page 133 for further info.
DELETE ONE FILE: This function provides the user with the ability to delete one
individual grid or sequential log file from a list of multiple grids/files previously saved
in memory. Refer to page 126 for further info.
DELETE ALL DATA: This function provides the user with the ability to delete all files
currently stored in memory. Refer to page 127 for further info.
3.15 UTIL (utilities) Menu

AUTO FIND: Automatically locates the detection point if the measurement is out of
the viewable display area, and automatically sets up the gauges scope settings.
KEY CLICK: Gives the user the ability to set the level of the key press beeper OFF,
QUIET, or LOUD. Refer to page 106 for further info.
GAUGE: Gives the user the ability toggle the DFX-7 gauge type to either a flaw
detector, or a thickness gauge. Refer to page 3 for further info.
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3.16 XFER (transfer) Menu

BACKUP SETUPS: Enables the user the ability to backup the setups currently
stored in the DFX-7 to a PC via RS232 port. USB adaptor included. Refer the help
section of the DFX-7 DakView software for a complete electronic manual.
RESTORE SETUPS: Enables the user the ability to restore the setups currently
saved on a PC to an DFX-7 via RS232 port. Refer the help section of the DFX-7
DakView software for a complete electronic manual.
BACKUP DATA: Enables the user the ability to backup grids or sequential log files
currently stored in the DFX-7 to a PC via RS232 port. Refer the help section of the
DFX-7 DakView software for a complete electronic manual.
RESTORE DATA: Enables the user the ability to restore grids or sequential log files
currently saved on a PC to an DFX-7 via RS232 port. Refer the help section of the
DFX-7 DakView software for a complete electronic manual.
ABOUT: Provides the user with Dakota Ultrasonics contact information and the
DFX-7 firmware version. Refer to the Dakota Ultrasonics web site for information on
the latest firmware versions available for download.
3.17 CLR (clear) Key

The primary functions of the CLR key, is to clear a measurement from a grid or
sequential log files cell location or set obstruct, backspace in an Alpha Edit Box, or
clear a DAC reference point used to generate a curve. Use this key to clear saved
measurement & waveform.
3.18 MEAS (measurement mode) Key

The MEAS key puts the DFX-7 into its primary mode of operation. In this mode, the
user has a complete view of the LCD. When pressed multiple times, navigates the
hot menu items.
3.19 OK Key
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Dakota Ultrasonics
The primary function of the OK key is confirmation of a change or selection. The OK
key also toggles the Hot Menu area, while in measurement mode, to a large digits
display area. If the DFX-7 is displaying a grid log, the OK key toggles an advance to
row number option. Finally, when the TRIG feature has been activated, pressing the
OK multiple times will toggle through sound path, surface distance, or depth and
displayed in the Hot Menu area.
3.20 ESC Key

The ESC key is used in the MENU, MEAS, and EDIT functions as a back or escape
function. If the DFX-7 is displaying a grid or sequential log, the OK key toggles the
display options: RF, +RECT, -RECT and RECTFW views.
3.21 Arrow Keys

The Arrow Keys are used to navigate through the menus, increase/decrease values,
and toggle specific function keys.
3.22 ENTER key

The ENTER key is used in the overall menu selection process, to activate list and
edit boxes, display and save measurements/waveforms to grid or sequential file
locations.
3.23 MULTI MODE Key

The MULTI MODE key provides the user with a set of flaw mode options: Normal,
Peak, or Freeze. The normal mode is the standard flaw detector mode. The Peak
mode draws, holds, and updates the waveform for the entire duration of the
inspection. The Freeze mode freezes the current waveform on the screen, allowing
the user the time to analyze the wave.
3.24 ON/OFF Key
18

The ON/OFF key simply powers the unit either ON or OFF. Note: Unit will
automatically power off when idle for 5 minutes. All current settings are automatically
saved prior to powering off.
3.25 DFX-7 Overview
In order to understand how to operate the DFX-7, its best to start off with an
understanding of what were looking at. The DFX-7 has a lot of great features and
tools that will prove to be a huge benefit for the variety of applications youre
constantly facing on a continual basis. Lets have a brief look at the screens youll be
looking at most often:
A. Repeatability/Stability Indicator This indicator shows the
stability/repeatability of the sound path signal. When all the vertical bars are
fully illuminated, the repeatability of the sound path is stable.
B. Battery Icon Indicates the amount of battery life the DFX-7 has remaining.
C. Height Shows the signal amplitude height as a percent of 100% full screen
height.
D. Feature Status Bar Indicates the features currently enabled and in use in
the following order:
Feature Toolkits
i. Trig Trigonometry w/ Curved Surface Correction
ii. AWS American Welding Society
iii. TCG Time Corrected Gain
iv. DAC Distance Amplitude Correction
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E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
v. DGS Distance Gain Size

View
i. RF: Radio Frequency.
ii. R+: Rectified positive.
iii. R- : Rectified negative
iv. FW: Rectified full wave.
Detect
i. Zero crossing (ZX)
ii. Flank (FK)
iii. Peak (PK)
Leg Skip leg reference, (L1L4)
High Speed Scan Mode
Alarm Mode
Gain Setting
Leg (skip leg) Indicates which skip/leg the detection in on. The thickness of
the material is used to calculate the leg.
Hot Menu items We call this menu section our hot menu, as these items
are the most commonly adjusted features, requiring quick access from the
user. They can be displayed and scrolled by pressing the MEAS key at
anytime. The ESC key is used in conjunction with MEAS key to reverse the
direction scrolled.
Memory Indicates that the currently displayed measurement screen and
values have been previous stored in memory. When MEM is displayed, all
measurement functions are disabled until the user advances to an empty
storage location, or the current measurement is cleared by pressing the CLR
key.
Height Displays the amplitude of the signal as a percentage of full screen
height. Depending on the quantity selected, this could also be displayed in
dB, or D.
Grid or Seq Log Name References the name of the log file currently open.
Log File Shows the storage cells of the current log file open. Depending on
the quantity currently selected, show either the %height or dB value stored.
A-Scan Display The actual echo reflections returned from the backwall or
defect.
3.26 Navigating the Hot Menu
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The diagram above is a screenshot of the Hot Menu feature of the DFX-7. The Hot
Menus contain all the most regularly adjusted features of the gauge. The primary
purpose of the design, was to provide the user with an efficient way to make
adjustments on the fly during inspections. The following procedure outlines the steps
to navigate and make adjustments as follows:
Hot Menu
Gate1
1) Press the MEAS key once to activate the Hot Menu. Press the MEAS key
multiple times to advance the cell right, and the ESC key multiple times to
advance the cell left, until the WIDTH1 cell is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the value or status.
Note: This is a coarse adjustment. Its the fastest and easiest way to
increment, decrement, or toggle the status, however it does so in coarse steps.
Set Detect
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until DETECT is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the ABOVE or BELOW.
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Note: Above will trigger the alarm when a signal meets or exceeds the height
of the gate, and below will detect on anything that meets or is below the height
of the gate.
3) Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted value.
5) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit locations.
6) Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the start position is correctly displayed.
7) Press the OK key to set the WIDTH1 position and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the WIDTH1 position.
Note: This procedure is universal for all the features in the Hot Menu cell
locations.
3.27 Top & Bottom End Caps
The top & bottom end panels are where all connections are made to the DFX-7. The
diagram above shows the layout and description of the connectors:
Transducer Connectors
Refer to Diagram: The transducer connectors, and battery cover/probe zero disk are
located on the DFX-7s top end cap. The transducer connectors are of type LEMO
00. A single element transducer must be plugged into the inside LEMO jack as
illustrated above. Note: There is no polarity associated with connecting a dual
element transducer to the DFX-7.
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Battery Cover
Refer to Diagram: The Battery cover is the large round disk shown in the diagram.
Be sure to check the polarity indicator diagram, located on the back label of the DFX7. Note: Rechargeable batteries can be used, however must be recharged outside
of the gauge in a standalone battery charger.
RS-232 Connector
Refer to Diagram: The RS-232 connector, located on the bottom end cap, is a 2 pin
female Lemo connector. It is designed to connect directly from the DFX-7 to a
standard AT serial port on a PC. The cable supplied with the DFX-7 is a Lemo to 9
pin serial cable. Note: This connector is also used to upgrade the DFX-7 with the
latest version of firmware.
USB Serial to USB Converter Cable
A converter cable can be attached to the 9 pin serial cable in needed (part no. N-4020510).
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CHAPTER FOUR
SETTING UP FOR MEASUREMENT
4.1 Selecting Display View
The DFX-7 includes a variety of viewing options for the waveform display. There are
three primary options waveform options with selectable polarity. These are all outline
below as follows:
Radio Frequency (RF): Displays the entire sine wave signal, much like an
oscilloscope, from a reflector or return echo. This view shows both the positive and
negative peaks.
Rectified (RECT): Displays half sine wave signal, either positive or negative, from
the reflector or return echo. The user can select the polarity or phase displayed.
This is typically determined by first using RF view to select the most optimal polarity
phase, to fine tune the scopes settings. The RECT view is commonly used as the
primary flaw detection view.
Full Wave (RECTFW): Display entire sine wave signal in a rectified view. There is
no polarity.
The following procedure outlines the steps to select the view:
Display View
the DISP menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
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until VIEW is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the view options (RF,
+RECT, -RECT, RECTFW).
4) Once the view is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to measurement
mode.
4.2 Adjusting the display

This section will cover the procedures for adjusting the viewable range, or area, of
the display, in terms of thickness. A basic overview example for this section would
be as follows: Suppose we had a 50 widescreen television set. The left side of the
television screen is considered the Delay for all view options. The right side of the
television screen is the Range + Delay. By adjusting the left and right side of the
television screen, to control the viewable area/range, we can zoom in and out of any
part of the 50 screen wed like, and focus on only the specific areas of the screen
necessary.
Setting Delay
The Delay represents the left side of the display, and can be adjusted to start at any
thickness value within the overall range of the DFX-7.
Note: Once the delay is set, it will remain the same for the views: RF, +RECT, RECT, RECTFW.
The procedures to adjust the Delay are outlined below:
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Setting Delay
1) Press the MEAS key once to activate measure menu items. Press the
MEAS key multiple times to move right and the ESC key multiple times to
move left, until the DELAY cell is highlighted.
2) Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
6) Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the DELAY value is correctly displayed.
7) Press the OK key to return to the measurement screen, or ESC to cancel
entering the DELAY.
8) Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
Setting Range
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The Range is the distance from the delay that will be viewable on the screen. It can
be adjusted to any value greater than the Delay. The procedures to adjust the range
are outlined below:
Setting Range
move left, until the RANGE cell is highlighted.
value.
6) Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the RANGE value is correctly displayed.
entering the RANGE.
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4.3 Gain
The gain feature of the DFX-7 is used to adjust the signal amplitude to a
predetermined reference height for the inspection process. The higher the gain the
more the sound is amplified. The gain, or amplification of the return echoes, can be
adjusted in the DFX-7 to accommodate a variety of applications. The setting of the
gain is crucial in order to obtain valid readings during the inspection process.
Too much gain may result in erroneous measurements, by detecting on noise rather
than the actual reflector or defect. Not enough gain may result in intermittent
detection. It may also result in lack of detection on internal flaws, pits, or porosity.
The gain can easily be compared to the volume control of a home stereo system. If
you turn it up too much, you cant hear the music clearly. If its turned down too
much, you cant hear it at all. The DFX-7 commands a 110dB gain range using 3
stages of amplification. The overall range makes the DFX-7 extremely versatile
regarding a variety of applications and material types.
The procedures to adjust the Gain are outlined below:
Adjusting Gain
MEAS key multiple times to move right, and the ESC key multiple times to
move left until the GAIN cell is highlighted.
value.
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6) Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the GAIN value is correctly displayed.
entering the GAIN.
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The user can also access and adjust the gain from the tabbed menus. However, this
method is more tedious than making the adjustments using the Hot Menus. The
procedure using the tabbed menus is outlined below:
Adjusting the Gain using the Tabbed Menus
1) Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the
MENU key multiple times to tab right, and the ESC key multiple times to tab
left, until the TUNE menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until GAIN is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value. When the
correct Gain is being displayed, proceed to step 8.
7) Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the Gain value is correctly displayed.
8) Press the OK key to set the Gain and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel entering the Gain.
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4.4 Gates
The gates are an important part of any ultrasonic device, in this case a flaw detector.
The primary purpose of using a flaw detector is to detect and estimate the size of
of flaws according to calibrated reference standards or simulated defects. The gates
play an important role in this process, as without them a detection/measurement isnt
possible. The height of a gate is also a threshold, or controls the level of sensitivity.
They can be adjusted to a specific reference height, based a predetermined reflector,
and set to act as an alarm during the inspection process.
The more flexible a gate is, the better the possibilities for the user to setup an
application. For example, a test block with a target size and depth is optimized on
the A-Scan display with a signal amplitude at 70% full screen height. The inspector
wants to know of any defects during the inspection that are greater than or equal in
size to the calibrated test specimen. A gate is then enabled and set to a reference
height of 70%. The width and range are adjusted to cover the range tested, and the
inspection is underway.
The DFX-7 is equipped with 2 fully independent gates. Each gate has a start and
stop or width, a threshold, a polarity switch, and a detect option. A gate can only
detect on reflections that occur inside the boundaries of the gate. Anything outside of
the start and range/width of the gate will be ignored. Both gates can be enabled and
set for different detects, polarities, and positioned anywhere on the A-Scan display
independent of one another. The following sections cover enabling and setting up
gates:
4.5 Activating and Setting Up a Gate
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No Gate
Gate On
The screenshots above show a rectified waveform with and without a gate enabled.
The following steps outline how to enable a gate as follows:
Activating a Gate
Gate1
key multiple times to tab right, and the ESC key multiple times to tab left,
until the GT1 menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until ALARM is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle ALARM to ON. The menu
items should now become active and adjustable, as the gate is now active.
Set Detect
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until DETECT is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the ABOVE or BELOW.
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Note: Above will trigger the alarm when a signal meets or exceeds the height
of the gate, and below will detect on anything that meets or is below the height
of the gate.
Set Gate1 Start
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until GATE1 is highlighted, followed by
pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value. When the
correct start position is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the start position is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the GATE1 start position and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the GATE1 start position.
Note: This where the gate first turn on relative to the horizontal axis or depth.
Sets the left boundary of the gate, or where it turns on.
Set Gate1 Width
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until GATE1 WIDTH is highlighted,
followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value.
When the correct width is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the width is correctly displayed.
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6) Press the OK key to set the GATE1 WIDTH and return to the menu screen,
or ESC to cancel entering the GATE1 WIDTH.
Note: This sets the overall width of the gate in terms of the horizontal axis or
depth. Sets the right boundary of the gate, or where it turns off.
Set Threshold1 Level
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until THRESHOLD1 is highlighted,
When the correct threshold level is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the threshold level is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the THRESHOLD1 level and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the THRESHOLD1 level.
Note: This sets the overall sensitivity level of the gate which is the threshold.
Select Gate Polarity
until POLARITY1 is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the POLARITY feature
positive or negative.
3) Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
Note: The GATE1 and WIDTH1 values can now be adjusted or tuned directly
from the Hot Menus on the main measurement screen.
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Note: Sets where the detection will occur, on the negative or positive going
echoes.
35
CHAPTER FIVE
CALIBRATION
In this section well focus on calibrating the DFX-7. There are a number of ways to
go about performing a calibration, but well be focusing on the simplest and most
accurate method, which is performing a two point calibration. This method is very
convenient, as it will automatically calculate the material velocity and zero using a
minimum and maximum calibration standard of know thickness and material type.
The DFX-7 can certainly be manually calibrated by adjusting the velocity and zero
features, but this is a tedious and redundant process overall.
The two point calibration method can be used for both straight and angle beam
transducers. A number of certified calibration standards are available to address
inspection code requirements, specifications, and applications. It should be noted
again that the DFX-7 has virtually 2 gauges built into a single gauge; a flaw detector,
and a thickness gauge. Therefore, while the flaw detector option can be calibrated
for straight beam contact and angle beam style transducers, the thickness gauge
option contains a number of tools for using single and dual element style transducers
with linearity tables and v-path correction curves. In addition, it should also be noted
that the thickness gauge option has a fully functional scope with the same precision
linearity as the flaw detector option. Therefore, the user should consider the current
application to determine which gauge option will produce the best results. The
following sections outline how to setup and calibrate your DFX-7 for field use, given a
specific range and material type.
5.1 Setting Up For Calibration

This section covers performing a two point automatic calibration using a single
element straight beam contact transducer with a range from 1 to 4 inches. In order to
accomplish this, a set of calibration standards covering range is required. The steps
are outlined as follows:
DFX-7 Setup
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The gauge will require a few basic adjustments in order to get underway with
the calibration process. For this example, in order to avoid multiple steps for
setting the gauge features/options, the default setup will be loaded as a starting
point. However, the user should invest the necessary time getting to know the
features and options included in the DFX-7, as well as gaining a good
understanding of their function:
Loading Default Setup
the SEUTP menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the CONFIRM screen.
4) Press the OK key to load the DEFAULT SETUP.
Setting the Range
1) Press the MEAS key once to activate the measure menu items. Press the
move left, until the RANGE cell is highlighted.
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2) Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.

5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the desired range value is displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the value and return to the GT1 menu.
Note: Our range calibration range for this example is 4 inches. Therefore
setting a range of 5 inches will enable the user to view the entire range on the
display.
Enabling and Setting Up a Gate
Refer to the illustrations above. In order to measure, a gate is required. The
width of the gate should be small enough, in terms of its width, in order to select
specific reflections to measure. The screenshot above shows a gate enabled to
select the 1 inch calibration standard, and in the second the 4 inch calibration
standard.
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Activating a Gate
the GT1 menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until ALARM is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the gate ON.
Setting the Detect
until DETECT is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the option ABOVE.
Gate1 Start
until GATE1 is highlighted.
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5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the desired GATE1 value is displayed.

Note: In our example, a value less than 1 inch should be selected.
Gate1 Width
until GATE1 WIDTH is highlighted.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the desired GATE1 WIDTH value is displayed.
Note: In our example, a value greater than 1 inch should be selected.
Threshold Level
until THRESHOLD1 is highlighted.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the desired THRESHOLD1 value is displayed.
Note: In our example, a value of 20% has been selected. However, the user
should set a value that will be close enough to the baseline to avoid a Peak
Jump, or missing the first cycle.
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Setting Polarity
until POLARITY1 is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the polarity POSITIVE.
3) Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and get started
with the two point calibration.
5.2 Straight Beam Calibration

Now that the DFX-7 is setup with a valid range and a gate enabled, were ready to
perform a two point, calibration using a single element contact style transducer, as
follows:
Two Point Calibration Straight Beam
Note: Calibration standards representing the minimum and maximum

thickness of the overall inspection range intended are required. They must also
be of the same material type as the intended application. For our example,
well be using a 1 and 4 inch standard for calibration.
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Coupling to the 1 Cal Standard (1st Point)

Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady
contact with the 1 calibration standard. Be sure that the reading is stable and
the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and
stable. Also, be sure there is sufficient signal amplitude in order to avoid peak
jumping or missing the first cycle.
Adjusting the Gate
move left, until the GATE1 cell is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move the gate over the waveform
to be measured, as demonstrated in the screen shot above.
Note: In order to trigger on a signal, the waveform must be inside the
boundaries of the gate.
Calibrating the First Point
the CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items, as shown in
the screenshot above.
until MATL 1PT is highlighted.
42

6) Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the known thickness value is correctly displayed.
7) Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu screen, or
ESC to cancel the one point calibration.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady
contact with the 4 calibration standard. Be sure that the reading is stable and
the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and
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stable. Also, be sure there is sufficient signal amplitude in order to avoid peak
jumping or missing the first cycle.
Adjusting the Gate
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move the gate over the waveform
to be measured, as demonstrated in the screen shot above.
Note: In order to trigger on a signal, the waveform must be inside the
boundaries of the gate.
Calibrating the Second Point
the CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items, as shown in
the screenshot above.
until MATL 2PT is highlighted.
44
6) Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the known thickness value is correctly displayed.
7) Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu screen, or
ESC to cancel the one point calibration.
Note: A velocity and zero value will be calculated and displayed in the fields a
shown above.
In order to trigger on anything thats detected in the calibrated range, the
boundaries of the gate must be adjusted to include the entire range. Caution:
in both z-cross & flank detection settings, the first signal to cross the gate will be
triggered on. However, if the peak detection setting has been enabled, the
signal with the most amplitude will be detected.
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Adjusting the Gate to Calibrated Range

2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move the gate start to a position
less than 1 inch.
3) Press the MEAS key once to highlight the WIDTH1 cell.

4) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move the gate start to a position
greater than 4 inches.
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Note: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the one
inch point, and any others in the given range, to confirm linearity. If the velocity
and zero values we calculated correctly, the thickness reading will match the
known thickness of the calibration standards. If the thickness is not correct,
repeat the steps above.
5) Press the OK key once to display the thickness, or the MEAS key to return
to the hot menus at any time.
5.3 Angle Beam Calibration

In the first example we demonstrated how to perform a two point calibration using a
single element straight beam contact transducer. With the exception of a handful of
additional comments, calibration using an angle beam transducer is virtually identical
in the scope of the overall step by step process. To avoid copying the procedures
from the previous section, well focus only on the additional comments. Refer to
section 5.1 and 5.2, regarding the procedures to setup and calibrate the DFX-7. The
following are a list of additional items to consider when using an angle beam
transducer, as follows:
Calibration Standards:
There are a number of calibration block options available in a variety of common
material types, and according to specific code requirements. The user should
consider the application, codes applicable, and purchase the necessary calibration
standards.
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Shear versus Longitudinal Velocity:
Unlike the previous straight beam calibration, which uses a longitudinal wave, an
angle beam transducer uses a shear wave. The following is a brief review of the
waves:
Longitudinal
o Particle motion is parallel to the direction of wave travel.
o Travels in solids, liquids, and gasses.
o Fastest mode of vibration.
Shear
o Particle motion is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.
o Travels only in solids.
o Is approximately the velocity of longitudinal waves.
o Has a shorter wavelength than a longitudinal at the same frequency.
Therefore, a two point calibration using an angle beam transducer will result in a
velocity approximately the speed of the velocity calculated from the straight beam
calibration in the previous section.
Gain and Amplitude Ratio:
During an angle beam calibration the overall amplitude height of the waveform is
critical for peaking up. Therefore the maximum amplitude of the waveform must be
visible on the display in order to correctly position the transducer on the calibration
standard. The user should select a screen height and gain level that will enable the
entire waveform to be visible on the display.
Peaking Up the Signal Amplitude:
During an angle beam calibration, its important to peak up the overall amplitude of
the waveform to its maximum potential. The primary purpose is to be sure the
transducer is positioned properly on the calibration standard, thats producing return
echoes at different distances. For example: If the operator is using a DSC block to
calibrate the velocity and zero, a DSC block will produce echoes at 3 & 7 inches.
The operator then positions the transducer on an index point, moves the transducer
in both directions forward and backward, rotates it side to side, and watches the
signal amplitude to find the maximum potential. At the maximum potential, the
transducer is correctly positioned to measure both multiple echoes at the correct
distances, and ready to proceed with the calibration.
Selecting the Material Type:
The user can also select a material type directly from a table built into the DFX-7 with
shear wave values. This would only get the user close, in terms of velocity, to the
calibration standards material type. In order to display the material chart with shear
48

wave values, the TRIG mode must be enabled. The following outlines the steps to
enable the shear wave velocity table and select a material type from the chart:
Selecting the Material Type
the TRIG menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle TRIG mode ON.
the CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until MAT is highlighted.
5) Press the ENTER key to display the list of material types.
6) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the material list until
the appropriate material is highlighted.
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7) Press the ENTER key to select the material type and initiate the overwrite
confirmation screen.
8) Press the OK key to confirm the material selection, or ESC key to cancel
changing the material type.
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CHAPTER SIX
TRIGONOMETRY MODE
6.1 Introduction to TRIG
Trig mode is most commonly used for inspecting welded joints using an angle beam
transducer. Based on the location, orientation, and geometry of the weld, a straight
beam transducer is typically not suitable for inspection. As a result, a transducer
emitting sound at a given angle will allow the operator to position the transducer
away from the actual weld, and skip into the weld at a given angle. Therefore, in
order to determine the location of a defect, given a specific angle, the trigonometry
mode is used. This section will cover the steps to setup and utilize trigonometry
mode.
6.2 Additional Comments

Prior to proceeding on to the next section outlining how to enable and setup the TRIG
mode, a few additional items should be clarified:
Angle Beam Transducer
Weld Inspection
Refer to the Angle Beam Transducer diagram above:

SP Sound Path
X-Offset Front of wedge less Index
Angle Transducer Angle
SD Surface Distance
Thickness Material Thickness
Depth Depth of flaw from surface
Screenshot Trig mode:
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When TRIG mode is enabled, the calculated measurements will be displayed below
the waveform display area at (A), and the signal amplitude as a percentage of full
screen height at (B).
Curved Surface Correction:
The DFX-7 will also compensate for convex curved surfaces of longitudinally welded
pipes. A curved surface will produce a greater sound path than a flat surface will,
using a transducer with a given angle. The user should consider the angle used on
curved surfaces, with respect to the material thickness, in order to be sure a
reflection will occur from the opposite surface of the test material. In order to utilize
the curved surface compensation, the outside diameter must be entered into the
DFX-7.
6.3 Setup Trigonometry Mode

This section provides a step by step procedure to enable and setup the TRIG mode.
Note: A two point calibration should be done prior to proceeding. Refer to Chapter
Five for the calibration procedures.
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Activating & Setting the Parameters
Activate Trig Mode

until the TRIG menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until TRIG is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the TRIG feature ON. The
menu items should now become active and adjustable, as illustrated above.
Enter Material Thickness
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until THICKNESS is highlighted,
When the correct thickness is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
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5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the thickness is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the THICKNESS and return to the menu screen, or
ESC to cancel entering the THICKNESS.
Note: Thickness is used to calculate the depth.
Transducer Angle
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until ANGLE is highlighted, followed
by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value. When the
correct angle is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the angle is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the ANGLE and return to the menu screen, or ESC
to cancel entering the ANGLE.
X-Offset
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until X-OFFSET is highlighted,
When the correct X-Offset is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the X-Offset is correctly displayed.
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6) Press the OK key to set the X-OFFSET and return to the menu screen, or
ESC to cancel entering the X-OFFSET.
Note: The X-Offset is used for purposes of marking, and is physically
measured with a ruler from the index point to the front edge of the transducer.
Curved Surface Outside Diameter
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until CSC OD is highlighted, followed
by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value. When the
correct CSC OD is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the CSC OD is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the CSC OD and return to the menu screen, or ESC
to cancel entering the CSC OD.
Note: The CSC OD value is only used for curved surfaces of longitudinally
welded pipes.
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CHAPTER SEVEN
AWS WELD INSPECTION
7.1 Introduction to AWS
AWS provides a toolkit for evaluating defects according to the American Welding
Society D1.1 welding code. The code offers inspectors a method to classify
discontinuities by calculating and Indication Rating (IR) using ultrasonics. This toolkit
can be used in conjunction with TRIG mode, outlined in the previous chapter, to
simultaneously display the sound path (SP), surface distance (SD), and depth (D).
The following sections provide an outline for using the AWS feature.

Since the DFX-7 is a gain controlled instrument, the following formula applies:
ABC=D
Where:
A = Discontinuity Indication Rating (DI)
B = Reference Indication Level (IL)
C = Attenuation Factor (AF); or 2(SP 1)
SP = sound path in inches (2dB loss per inch of material thickness)
D = Indication Rating (IR)
Note: all values are in dB.
Calibration Standards & Calibration:
In order to use the AWS feature, the operator must have calibration standards made
with the same size reflector at different distances within the testing range. The
standards should also be made of the same material type as the material to be
inspected.
AWS D1.1 Standard:
There are specific transducers that are required by the D1.1 standard. The
frequency specified by the standard is 2-2.5MHz. The user should refer to the
standard for further information.
7.3 Setup AWS

This section provides a step by step procedure to enable and setup the AWS feature.
Note: A two point calibration should be done prior to proceeding. Refer to Chapter
Five for the calibration procedures. The TRIG mode will also be used for weld
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inspection, and should additionally be setup prior to enabling the AWS feature. Refer
to Chapter Six for instructions on setting up TRIG mode.
Activating & Setting AWS
Activate Trig Mode

until the AWS menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until AWS is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the AWS feature ON. The
Enter % Screen Height
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until % SCRN HEIGHT is highlighted,
When the correct height is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
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5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the height is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the % SCRN HEIGHT and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the % SCRN HEIGHT.
Note: % Screen Height is an arbitrary level, and is not specified by the AWS
D1.1. The user should set a value that will optimize viewing defects that are
larger and smaller than the reference level. Typically this level is set between
50%-80% full screen height.
Setting the Reference Gain
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until SET REF HEIGHT is highlighted,
followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the feature
ON.
Note: A gray cursor should be visible in the waveform area of the display.
Also, since the DFX-7 has been previous calibrated and the TRIG feature has
been setup, a gate should be enabled and active.
Peak Up on the Reflector
1) Apply couplant on the calibration standard, place the transducer in the
correct area in position with the reflector, and slide the transducer around to
locate the maximum amplitude.
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2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to position the start of GATE1 to
trigger on the waveform.
3) Optionally, press the MEAS key multiple times to move right and the ESC
key multiple times to move left, until the WIDTH1 cell is highlighted.
4) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to adjust the size or width of
GATE1.
Note: When the signal is in the gate, the height indicator will detect and display
the % full screen height.
Setting the Level
1) Press the MEAS key multiple times to move right and the ESC key multiple
times to move left, until the AWS BOX: cell is highlighted.
2) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to position the cursor box over the
waveform.
3) Press the ENTER key to set the REFGN (reference gain).
Note: This process can be repeated and reset multiple times, or until the SET
REF GAIN feature is toggled OFF.
until the AWS menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
5) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until SET REF GAIN is highlighted,
followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle OFF.
6) Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the main measurement screen,
followed by pressing the OK key to display the AWS screen.
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Note: The AWS screen can be toggle on by pressing the OK key while in the
main measurement screen. Equally, the Hot Menus can be toggled by
pressing the MEAS at any time.
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CHAPTER EIGHT
DISTANCE AMPLITUDE CORRECTION (DAC)
8.1 Introduction to DAC
A DAC curve is a gate with a variable threshold to compensate for a given reflector
type and size measured at different depths. Unlike a standard gate, which typically
has a fixed threshold level regardless of the depth, the DAC curve is more
representative of the reflector size at different depths. In order to generate a DAC
curve, calibration standards must made with the same material being inspected, the
representative reflector size, and over a given thickness range. The DAC curve is
then used as an alarm to inform the user about the size of any given reflector at any
depth during the inspection process.
Once the DAC curve has been established, the user can display; -2dB, -6dB, -10dB,
-12dB, -6/-12dB, -6/-14dB, DAC or GATE at any time. The initial DAC curve
generated is always displayed in conjunction with any of the above CURVE options.
Additionally, the alarm can be set to TRIGGER on any of the curve options displayed.
Therefore, if the -6/-12dB curve option has been selected, the user can toggle the
TRIGGER options: GATE, DAC, -6dB, or -12dB.
Note: Based on the screen resolution of the DFX-7, the dynamic range of the DAC
is approximately 18dB. As a result, inspection of any materials that attenuate more
than 18dB over the inspection range, the DAC feature should not be used, and TCG
(Time Corrected Gain) should optionally be considered.

Prior to proceeding onto the next section to create a DAC curve, a few additional
items will help with the users selection process in the menu items:
Up to 8 points can be used to generate a DAC curve.

3 or more points must be used in order to draw a DAC curve.
All the DAC curve or gate combinations only detect when the amplitude of the
signal is at or above the selected trigger option.
Any of the DAC curves or gate displayed, can be set as the trigger alarm
option.
The measure (meas) options are as follows:
dB
%DAC At the DAC curve represents 100%. Any signal generating an
amplitude below the DAC curve is less than 100%, and any above
greater than 100%.
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%FSH The top of the waveform display represents 100% full screen
height. Any waveform amplitudes generated greater than 100% full
screen height will not be displayed. 100% is the greatest value that can
be displayed.
Note: The MEAS option selected is overridden with %FSH while the
DAC curve is in DRAW mode. Once the DRAW mode is turned off, the
select MEAS option will be displayed.
The MEAS, CURVE, and TRIGGER options can be changed at any time once
the DAC curve has been created.
In order to move the highlighted cursor over a waveform to use as a point in
generating the DAC curve, the DAC BOX: hot menu item in the main
measurement screen must be highlighted.
8.3 Creating a DAC Curve

This section provides a step by step procedure to create a DAC curve. Note: a two
point calibration should be done prior to proceeding. Refer to Chapter Five for the
calibration procedures. Also, if the TRIG function will be used, it should be setup
prior to proceeding. Refer to Chapter Six for the setup procedure.
Activating & Setting the Parameters
Activating DAC
until the DAC menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
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until DAC is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the DAC feature ON or
AUDIBLE. The menu items should now become active and adjustable, as
illustrated above.
Activating Draw Mode
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until DRAW is highlighted, followed by
pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys until ON is displayed.
Quantity Displayed
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until MEAS is highlighted, followed by
pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle and select dB, %FSH,
or %DAC.
Selecting the Curve(s)
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until CURVE is highlighted, followed
by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle and select DAC, -2, 4, -6, -10, (-6/-12), or (-6/-14) curve options. The CURVE option can be
changed at any time after the DAC curve has been created.
Setting the Curve(s) Trigger
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until TRIGGER is highlighted, followed
by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle and select which
curve or gate to use as the alarm trigger. The options displayed will vary
according to which CURVE option has been selected above: DAC, -2, -4, -6,
-10, (-6/-12), or (-6/-14) curve options. The Trigger option can be changed
at any time after the DAC curve has been created.
Selecting the Fit
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1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until FIT is highlighted,
followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to select SPLINE or
LINEAR.
2) Proceed to the next section Drawing the DAC.
Drawing the DAC
1) With all the parameters set in the previous section, press the MEAS key
once to return to the main measurement screen.
Note: The user should now see a highlighted cursor displayed in the waveform
area, starting at the left most side of the display area.
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ex. 1
ex. 2
2) Press the MEAS key multiple times to move right, and the ESC key multiple
times to move left until the DAC BOX: cell is highlighted. Now that the DAC
BOX: cell is highlighted, the cursor can be controlled by moving the LEFT
and RIGHT arrow keys.
3) Couple the transducer to the first calibration standard, and peak up on the
reflector, adjusting the gain to keep the signal height within the boundaries
of the waveform display area, and at a suitable height to allow for
attenuation at greater depths in the overall range to be tested.
4) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move the cursor over the
waveform to be used as the first point in the DAC curve, and press the
ENTER key to set the first point. Illustrated in ex.1 above.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 to set multiple points as is necessary. Illustrated in ex.2
above.
Note: The DAC curve will be displayed after 3 points have been set/recorded,
and will continue to be redrawn/updated for each additional point added,
with a maximum of 8 points allowed.
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until the DAC menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys until OFF is displayed. The DAC
curves are now set and ready to be used for inspection.
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CHAPTER NINE
TIME CORRECTED GAIN (TCG)
9.1 Introduction to TCG
The TCG feature increases gain as distance increases, in order to achieve an overall
level of sensitivity for the same reflector at different distances. It is very similar to the
DAC feature noted in a previous chapter. However, while a DAC curve plots points
at given amplitudes and distances, generating a variable threshold, the TCG feature
increases the gain at various distances to adjust the signal amplitude to a
predetermined level of full screen height. Therefore, the amplitude of all signals at
various distances will be displayed at the same reference level.
Note: One of the advantages of the TCG feature over the DAC option is the dynamic
range. The TCG feature has a maximum dynamic range of 50dB, while the DAC
option is approximately 18dB. Therefore the TCG feature is a better solution for any
materials that attenuate more than 18dB over the inspection range, and should be
considered.

Prior to proceeding onto the next section to create a DAC curve, a few additional
items will help with the users selection process in the menu items:
Up to 8 points can be used to generate a TCG curve.

3 or more points must be used in order to draw a TCG curve.
The gain will be adjusted at each point to display the signal amplitude at a
predetermined reference level.
In order to move the highlighted cursor over a waveform to use as a point in
generating the TCG curve, the TCG BOX: hot menu item in the main
measurement screen must be highlighted.
9.3 Creating a TCG Curve

This section provides a step by step procedure to create a TCG curve. Note: a two
Setting TCG Parameters
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Activating TCG
until the TCG menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until TCG is highlighted.
6) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the TCG feature ON. The
Enter % Screen Height
7) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys until % SCRN HEIGHT is highlighted,
When the correct height is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
10) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the height is correctly displayed.
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11) Press the OK key to set the % SCRN HEIGHT and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the % SCRN HEIGHT.
Activating Draw Mode
until DRAW is highlighted.
5) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the DRAW feature ON.
6) Proceed to the next section Drawing the TCG curve.
Drawing the TCG
1) With all the parameters set in the previous section, press the MEAS key
once to return to the main measurement screen.
area, starting at the left most side of the display area.
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ex. 1
ex. 2
2) Press the MEAS key multiple times to move right, and the ESC key multiple
times to move left until the TCG BOX: cell is highlighted. Now that the TCG
BOX: cell is highlighted, the cursor can be controlled by moving the LEFT
and RIGHT arrow keys.
reflector to achieve maximum signal amplitude.
waveform to be used as the first point in the TCG curve, and press the
ENTER key to set the first point. Illustrated in ex.1 above.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 to set multiple points as is necessary. Illustrated in ex.2
above.
Note: You must set 3 points to draw a TCG curve. Any point can be cleared
by pressing the CLR key when DRAW is active.
until the TCG menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
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pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys until OFF is displayed. The TCG
curve is now set.
8) Optionally, the TCG curve can be displayed by pressing the UP and DOWN
arrow keys until CURVE is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and
RIGHT arrow keys toggle ON.
9) Press the MEAS key to display the main measurement screen, and the TCG
curve will be displayed.
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CHAPTER TEN
DISTANCE, GAIN, SIZE (DGS)
10.1 Introduction to DGS (AVG)
The DGS (Distance, Gain, Size) method was introduced in 1958 as a way to
standardize the process of evaluating and sizing defects, also referred to by the
German acronym AVG. This method uses a combined empirical and mathematical
model to eliminate the need for a large range of reference standards, generally
required when using the DAC or TCG methods. DGS can be thought of as a
mathematically derived DAC curve, and used as an alternative replacement for DAC.
The concept of the DGS method is to compare the amplitude/gain of similar reflectors
at different distances and sizes, to mathematically approximate the size of the defect
using the effective probe diameter, frequency and near field length (NFL). The
reference to similar reflectors assumes that the orientation of the reflector is the
same for all sizes, which is unrealistic to assume during actual field testing. The
diagram below illustrates the mathematically derived set of curves used for DGS:
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Considerations:
Should only be used with single element probes.
The effective diameter must be estimated for standard transducers not
certified for DGS.
Center frequency clarity is required. Highly damped transducers can
sometimes produce a broadband frequency range, and should not be used.
10.2 DGS Diagram

In order to get familiar with the DGS diagram, lets take a look at some of the general
concepts. The near and far fields are referenced at point (A). In the near field the
wave front is not as uniform or consistent as the far field. As a result, the evaluation
of flaws/defects are optimized in the far field when the wave front becomes uniform.
Evaluating defects less than .7 NFLs is marginal at best.
The DGS diagram uses a logarithmic scale for both the Gain (dB) y axis, and near
field length (NFL) distance at (B). The curve at (C) is the back wall reflector. Its
important to note that when the distance is doubled, the sound energy decreases by
1/2 (-6dB). However, a defect/reflector thats less than or equal to the effective
diameter of the transducer, doubling the distance decreases the sound energy by 1/4
(-12dB), at (D).
The curve at (E) represents a defect that is equal to 100% the effective diameter of
the transducer, while 5% the effective diameter at (F). As an example for using this
diagram to determine a reflector size, consider the following: If I set my gauge for
80% screen height on a back wall reflector at 5 NFLs, and found a defect also at 5
NFLs, but at 80% (1/10th = 20dB), the ERS would be 30% of the effective diameter.
10.3 Estimating Effective Diameter

There are a number of transducers that are specially documented as DGS/AVG
transducers. What this typically infers is that the effective diameter, near field length,
and center frequency have been determined and documented on the transducer
certificate. If DGS/AVG transducers are being used, the values for effective diameter
and frequency can simply be entered into the DFX-7. However, if a standard
transducer will be used and has a standard transducer certificate, the effective
diameter must be estimated in order to determine the near field length (NFL).
Calculating NFL
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Where:
N = Near Field Length
DEFF = Effective Diameter
= Wave Length (velocity/frequency)
In order to approximate the effective diameter, the shape of the crystal must be taken
into account. Transducers are either round or square/rectangular in shape, and can
be approximated as follows:
Round Crystal (DEFF)
Where:
Dia. = Diameter of the crystal
0.97 = Fixed ratio
Square/Rectangle (DEFF)
Where:
K = Aspect Ratio
A = Largest Dimension
B = Smallest Dimension
Where:
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K = Aspect Ratio
A = Largest Dimension
0.97 = Fixed Ratio
Calculated results can also be compared to the following table:
Ratio of the sides
B/A
1.0
0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
K
1.37
1.25
1.15
1.09
1.04
1.01
1.00
0.99
0.99
0.99
10.4 Parameter Definitions DGS(AVG)

This section outlines the parameters in the DGS/AVG toolbox, and provides a brief
definition of each parameter:
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DGS: Activate the DGS on/off.

Reference Gain: Activated to set the reference gain using a given reflector from a
calibration standard.
Trigger Curve: Enables the user to set the detection curve to either DGS or GATE.
This will be the curve used to trigger the alarms and display the effective reflector
size (ERS) during the inspection process.
Effective Probe Diameter: A variable used to calculate the near field length of a
given transducer, and determine the defect size. The effective diameter will be noted
on the transducer calibration certificate for a standard DGS transducer. However,
this can be estimated using the formulas outlined in section 10.3.
Probe Frequency: Refers to the center frequency of the transducer being used, and
used in the calculation of the near field length.
Curve Size (ERS): Used to select which curve will be used, based on the reflector
size, from the DGS(AVG) chart in section 10.1. If the value entered is not an exact
curve value represented in the diagram, the DFX-7 will compare and interpolate
between the two closest curves, and mathematically derive a curve for that value.
Attenuation: Used to additionally compensate other factors leading to the loss of
sound/energy. Refer to section 10.5 for more information on the attenuation
parameters. If all the attenuation values are set to zero, the attenuation feature will
display off.
Delay Velocity: The longitudinal velocity of the delay line, most commonly used with
angle beam style probes, but also used with 90 degree compression probes. Its
important to note that in order for this to be accurate, the probe zero must be
accurate. This is easily accomplished performing a two point calibration (auto cal).
Reference Type: This option enables the user to select the type of reflector that will
be used during calibration and setup. The options are Back Wall, Flat Bottom Hole
(FBH), or Side Drilled Hole (SDH).
Reference Size: Assuming the reference type selected is either FBH or SDH, the
user will be required to enter the size of the reference reflector.
10.5 Attenuation Parameters

The attenuation section is setup to accommodate additional factors that can affect
the accuracy of the amplitude or sound energy, considering different application
scenarios. The following parameters are outline below:
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DVK (Curvature Correction): If a V1/K1 or V2/K2 (A2/A4, IIW/Kidney) calibration

standard is used as a reference reflector, the curved surface offers additional focus
normally resulting in greater signal output. DVK is a correction to the gain, in order to
simulate the amplitude generated from a flat back wall. This will typically result in an
overall gain increase.
Material Loss: Used to correct for the attenuation (loss) of sound energy in the test
material; in units of dB/in. or dB/meter. Should be considered during inspections
where the sound has to travel long distances, or the material is very attenuative.
Reference Loss: Used to correction for the attenuation (loss) of sound energy in the
calibration/reference standard; in units of dB/in. or dB/meter.
Transfer Loss: Correction factor to account for the loss of sound energy from
surface condition/roughness or inadequate coupling between the transducer and test
specimen. The surface condition of calibration/reference standards and actual
material being tested in the field will typically vary. This is generally approximated
based on the inspectors experience in the field. Units are dB/in., or dB/meter.
10.6 Creating a DGS Curve

This section provides a step by step procedure to create a TCG curve. Note: a two
Setting DGS Parameters
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Activating DGS
until the DGS menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times to scroll through the sub
menu items until DGS is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the DGS feature ON. The
Trigger Curve
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until TRIGGER CURVE
is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to
scroll the curve options. When the correct curve is displayed, proceed to the
next setting.
Effective Diameter
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until EFF PROBE
DIAMETER is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow
keys to scroll the value. When the correct diameter is displayed, proceed to
the next setting.
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3) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times to scroll the highlighted
value.
4) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys multiple times to scroll the digit
locations.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the diameter is correctly displayed.
7) Press the OK key to set the EFF PROBE DIAMETER and return to the
menu screen, or ESC to cancel entering the EFF PROBE DIAMETER.
Probe Frequency
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until PROBE
FREQUENCY is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT
arrow keys to scroll the value. When the correct frequency is displayed,
proceed to the next setting.
value.
locations.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the frequency is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the PROBE FREQUENCY and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the PROBE FREQUENCY.
Curve Size (ERS)
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2) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until ERS is highlighted,
When the correct ERS is displayed, proceed to the next setting.
value.
locations.
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the ERS is correctly displayed.
6) Press the OK key to set the ERS and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel entering the ERS.
Attenuation (All Parameters)
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until ATTENUATION is
highlighted, followed by pressing the ENTER key to enter the
ATTENUATION sub menu.
2) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times to scroll the correct
attenuation parameter is highlighted.
3) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until the desire
attenuation parameter is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and
RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value. When the correct value is displayed,
proceed to the next parameter.
value.
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locations.
7) Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the parameter value is correctly displayed.
8) Press the OK key to set the value and return to the ATTENUATION sub
menu screen, or ESC to cancel entering the parameter value.
Drawing the DGS Curve
1) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until REFERENCE
GAIN is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys
to toggle on. With all the parameters set in the previous section, press the
MEAS key to return to the main measurement screen.
area, starting at the left most side of the display. Also note that the DGS BOX
will be highlighted in the hot menus on the right of the display.
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reflector, adjusting the gain to keep the signal height within the boundaries
of the waveform display area, and at a suitable height to allow for
attenuation at greater depths in the overall range to be tested.
waveform that will be used to set the REFERENCE GAIN and draw the
DGS curve.
Note: The DGS curve uses 16 points to plot the curve.
until the DGS menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
Alternatively, press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys multiple times using
the left button wheel.
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5) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times until REFERENCE
GAIN is highlighted, followed by pressing the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys
to toggle OFF. The DGS curve is now set and ready to be used for
inspection.
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CHAPTER ELEVEN
ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE DFX-7
11.1 Pulse Width
The DFX-7 has a square wave pulser with adjustable pulse width option. Pulse
width, refers to the duration of time the pulser is left on. This time results in
increased energy sent into the test material. There are three width options (SPIKE,
THIN, and WIDE). The SPIKE setting may be desirable for high resolution and
general applications to decrease the overall noise. When additional energy is
needed, more penetration, the THIN and WIDE options may be necessary. The
standard setting is THIN. The procedure to change the pulse width is outlined below:
Selecting the Pulse Width
the TUNE menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until PULSE is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the Pulse options.
4) Once the Pulse is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
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11.2 Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF)

The DFX-7 is equipped an adjustable pulse repetition rate, with adjustable settings of
8, 16, 32, 66, 125, 250, and 333Hz. The primary purpose is to control how fast the
pulser is firing. The repetition rate is tied into the alarm LEDS. Therefore, when
scanning at higher speeds, a higher repetition rate will make the alarm trigger more
responsive. Its important to note that since the screen has a maximum refresh rate
of 120Hz, or draws at 120 times a second, any PRF settings over this maximum will
not be visible on the display. In fact, the human eye has a response rate of less than
60Hz.
The PRF setting will automatically be overridden according to the range set by the
user. Long range settings will slow the PRF down automatically. Slower PRF
settings will save on battery life. Therefore, if your current application doesnt call for
fast scanning speeds, you can save battery life by selecting a slower PRF. The
procedure to change the MAX PRF setting is outlined below:
Setting the Max PRF
the PRB menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until MAX PRF is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the PRF options.
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4) Once the desired PRF is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
11.3 Damping
The DFX-7 has an adjustable damping feature, enabling the user to select from a
variety of settings according the transducer frequency and overall output. The range
of the damping feature is 50-1500 ohms. The available steps are 50, 75, 100, 300,
600 and 1500 ohms. Lower frequency transducers require less damping because
they typically have higher impedance and distort. The reverse is true for higher
frequency transducers. Nevertheless, trial and error with this feature will enable you
to find the optimal signal response and setting for your transducer. The procedure to
change the DAMPING is outlined below:
Selecting the Damping
until DAMPING is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the DAMPING options.
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4) Once the desired DAMPING is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to
the measurement screen.
11.4 Pulser Voltage

The DFX-7 has a 200 volt square wave pulser that can be adjusted for specific
applications and transducers. The Pulser Volt feature offers a 50 volt cut/boost
option to the user. The standard setting is 200 volts. This enables the DFX-7 to offer
greater penetration for difficult material types, or increased resolution on noisy
materials. The procedure to change the pulser voltage is outlined below:
Changing the Pulser Voltage
until PULSER VOLT is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the PULSER VOLT options.
4) Once the desired Pulser Voltage is displayed, press the MEAS key to
return to the measurement screen.
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11.5 Material Velocity Charts

The DFX-7 has two material velocity charts built into the gauge with both longitudinal
and shear material velocities. It should be noted that in order to display the chart
containing the shear wave velocities the TRIG mode must be activated, as weve
assumed an angle beam transducer will be used for the inspection process. The
procedure is listed below:
Selecting a Basic Material Type
until MAT is highlighted.
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3) Press the ENTER key to display the list of material types.

5) Press the ENTER key to overwrite the material type and display the menu
items with the new material type selected.
6) Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin
taking readings.
11.6 Material Velocity

The DFX-7 has a built in feature to manually adjust the material velocity to a know
value in the calibration section of the DFX-7. It should be noted that this does not
calculate the zero value like the two point calibration option does. Therefore, if the
material velocity is changed you should check the calibration. The procedures for
adjusting the velocity are outlined below:
Adjusting Velocity
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until VELCITY is highlighted.
correct velocity value is being displayed, proceed to step 8.
7) Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the velocity value is correctly displayed.
8) Press the OK key to set the velocity and return to the menu screen, or ESC
to cancel entering the velocity.
11.7 Zero
The DFX-7 has a feature to manually adjust the electronic zero. This feature used in
conjunction with manually adjusting the velocity, are the primary features necessary
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to perform a crude manual screen calibration. The procedure for adjusting the zero
is listed below:
Adjusting Zero
until ZERO is highlighted.
correct zero value is being displayed, proceed to step 8.
7) Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the zero value is correctly displayed.
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8) Press the OK key to set the zero and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel entering the zero.
11.8 Brightness
The DFX-7 is equipped with a brightness feature to adjust the display visibility and
optimize battery life. It has an arbitrary scale with a values from 1-20, with 20
representing the brightest setting. The procedures for adjusting the brightness are
outlined below:
Adjusting Brightness
until BRIGHTNESS is highlighted.
correct brightness value is being displayed, proceed to step 8.
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7) Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the brightness number is correctly displayed.
8) Press the OK key to set the brightness and return to the menu screen, or
ESC to cancel entering the brightness.
taking readings.
11.9 Screen Update (Refresh)

The DFX-7 has a maximum screen redraw rate of 120Hz. While its extremely fast
for a digital flaw detector, it also requires additional power as it draws more current.
As a result, weve opted to include an option to toggle between 60Hz and 120Hz in
order to provide the user the option to conserve on battery life. The procedure to
toggle this option is outlined below:
Selecting the Refresh
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until SCREEN UPDATE is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle 60Hz or 120Hz.
4) Once the desired SCREEN UPDATE is displayed, press the MEAS key to
return to the measurement screen.
11.10 Color Scheme

The DFX-7 has a variety of display color options to select from. These will change
the look and feel of the according to the users preference. The procedures for
changing the VIEW, are outlined below:
Selecting a Color Scheme
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until VIEW is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display a list of the color scheme options.
5) Press the ENTER key, followed by pressing the OK key, to overwrite the
current color scheme with the selected scheme.
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taking readings.
11.11 DIM
The DFX-7 has a built-in DIM feature to manage power more effectively. This feature
has adjustable time durations, until the power of the display is dimmed and current
draw reduced. The timer is constantly reset while the user is making measurements,
and is only activated when the gauge is idle for the duration of time the DIM value is
set for. This feature does not override the preset 5 min idle power off feature in any
way. However, if the gauge is turned on, set for a DIM of 120sec, and then left idle
for 5 minutes, the DFX-7 will dim in 2 minutes, then power off in 5 minutes. The
procedures for adjusting the DIM time are outlined below:
Setting a DIM time
until DIM is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the DIM time.
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taking readings.
11.12 Graphics Options (look & feel)

The DFX-7 includes a couple of cosmetic features for user preference when viewing
the waveform. These features only serve as cosmetic items, and do not change the
functionality of the DFX-7 in any way.
RECT Wave:
The rectified wave feature, is only functional when using RECT wave view, and
provides the user the following display options:
Outline Draws the unfilled outline of the waveform.
Filled Draws a filled version of the waveform.
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The procedure to select the look and feel option is outlined below:
Setting the Look & Feel
until RECT WAVE is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the RECT WAVE options.
4) Once the RECT WAVE is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
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11.13 Detect Mark

Another look and feel option of the DFX-7 is the DETECT MARK feature. The detect
mark give the user the option to select: none, line, dots, or box. Depending on the
select made, an indication will be displayed on the waveform, showing where the
detection is occurring. It should be noted that the box option will only be visible in
RF view. The following screenshots illustrate the above selection options:
None
Line
Dots
Box
11.14 Filters (Wide & Narrow Bands)

There are two versions of the DFX-7 series: DFX-7 and DFX-7+. The DFX-7 is a
wide band only gauge, which includes a single wide band filter with a range of
1.8MHz to 19MHz. The DFX-7+ includes the same wide band filter, but also includes
a few narrow band filter options at 2MHz, 5MHz and 10MHz. The wide band option
is responsive to all signals within the given frequency range. However, narrow band
filters eliminate signals outside of the target filter frequency, and focus on the output
of the transducer at the specified frequency. The procedure to change the
DAMPING is outlined below:
Selecting the Damping
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until FILTERS is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the FILTERS options.
4) Once the desired FILTERS is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to
11.15 Gain Step Size
Adjusting Gain Step Size
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Alternatively, press the
LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys multiple times
using the left button wheel.

2) Use the
UP and DOWN arrow keys multiple times on the left button
wheel to scroll through the sub menu items until GAIN STEP is highlighted.
3) Press the
LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys multiple times using the left
button wheel to scroll the value. When the correct step size is being
displayed, proceed to step 8.
5) Press the
wheel to scroll the highlighted value.

6) Press the
button wheel to scroll the digit locations.

7) Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the zero value is correctly displayed.
8) Press the OK key to set the gain step and return to the menu screen, or
ESC to cancel entering the gain step.
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11.16 Detect Modes

The DFX-7 has three selectable modes of detection: Z-Cross, Flank, and Peak. The
following diagram illustrates the difference between the options:
Z-Cross
Flank
Peak
Refer to the diagrams above. The current polarity is positive, as shown by the
position of the gate above the baseline:
Z-Cross: The detection occurs as the first positive half cycle crosses the baseline
and goes negative.
Flank: The detection occurs as the first half cycle left edge rises and breaks the
threshold.
Peak: The detection occurs at the highest peak in the gate.
The procedure to select the DETECT MODE is outlined below:
Selecting the Detect
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until DETECT MODE is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the DETECT options.
4) Once the DETECT is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
11.17 Polarity
The DFX-7 has a number of features and views that offer selectable polarity. The
important thing to note is the polarity view is entirely different than the polarity
selection of a gate. If a polarity view of +RECT is selected, only the positive portion
of the waveform will be shown on the screen. If a positive polarity is then selected for
GT1, not only will the gate be displayed on the screen, it will only detect on the
positive going cycles of the waveform. Polarity is selectable according to the VIEW,
GT1, GT2, and DAC. Again, view corresponds only to what portion of the waveform
is displayed, positive or negative, and the other three options are primarily associated
with where the detect occurs. Finally, if the view is set to RF, the entire waveform
cycle will be displayed, both positive and negative. Refer to the diagram below:
The diagram above is an RF view, showing both the positive and negative going
cycles for purposes of explanation. Notice the +/- positions in the diagram. The
positive phase is everything above the horizontal center line, and the negative
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everything below the center line. The baseline is found at position (A), and
considered zero dB. If +RECT was selected as the view, only the positive portion of
the waveform would be displayed. Equally, if the gate polarity was set to positive, as
in the diagram at (C), it would also appear on the display. However, if it was set to
negative, would not appear on the display. In the example above, the gate is set to
positive and will detect on the positive going waveform cycles shown in the box (B).
Toggle Polarity (+/-)
Note: The screenshots above show where all the possible locations for polarity
selection are found in the DFX-7. For more information on the above, refer to
the sections on VIEW, DAC, GT1, & GT2.
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until the DISP, DAC, GT1, or GT2 menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
until VIEW, DPOLARITY, POLARITY1, or POLARITY2 is highlighted.
3) Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the VIEW, DPOLARITY,
POLARITY1, or POLARITY2 negative or positive.
4) Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
11.18 Auto Find

The DFX-7 is equipped with a very handy feature for locating the detection point of a
return echo that is not currently in the viewable region of the display. The AUTO
FIND feature is a convenient way to automatically bring the detected echo into view
on the display. Once the echo is in the viewable area, the user can then make small
adjustments to the delay and range accordingly. The procedure to use the AUTO
FIND feature is outlined below:
Using Auto Find
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until the UTIL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until AUTO FIND is highlighted.
3) Place the transducer on the test material and obtain a reading.
4) Press the ENTER key to automatically adjust the display settings and bring
the waveform into view.
5) Once the signal is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to measurement
mode.
11.19 Key Click
Selecting the Detect
the UTIL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
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Alternatively, press the
LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys multiple times
using the left button wheel.

2) Use the
wheel to scroll through the sub menu items until KEY CLICK is highlighted.
3) Use the
button wheel to scroll the KEY CLICK options.

4) Once the desired KEY CLICK is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to
11.20 Peak Hold

The DFX-7 includes a peak hold feature that draws and saves the maximum
waveform amplitude on the screen. This allows an inspector to move the transducer
in all directions, in an effort to peak up on a signal, and locate the maximum
amplitude. The following procure outlines the steps to activate and use the PEAK
hold feature:
Activating Peak
1) Press the MULTI MODE key located in the bottom left corner of the keypad
to display the mode options.
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2) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys PEAK is highlighted.

Clearing Current Wave Draw
Note: At any point during a PEAK scan the operator may opt to clear the wave
drawing and start over.
1) Press the CLR key at any time to clear the currently displayed waveform,
and continue the scanning process.
Disabling PEAK
Note: In order to deactivate the PEAK hold feature.
2) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys NORMAL is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to set the mode and automatically return to the
measurement screen.
11.21 Freeze Waveform

The DFX-7 also includes a FREEZE feature that allows an operator the ability to
freeze the current waveform being display on the screen at anytime. Once the
operator freezes the waveform, the transducer can be removed from the test
material. The following procure outlines the steps to activate and use the FREEZE
feature:
Activating Freeze
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Note: Assuming the operator currently has a waveform that theyd like to
freeze on the display.
2) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys FREEZE is highlighted.
measurement screen.
Disabling Freeze
Note: In order to deactivate the FREEZE feature.
4) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys NORMAL is highlighted.
measurement screen.
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CHAPTER TWELVE
DATA STORAGE SETUP, EDIT, & VIEW FILES
12.1 Introduction to Grid and Sequential file formats
The DFX-7 is equipped with two data file format options, GRID LOG and SEQ LOG.
The GRID file format is very similar to a spreadsheet format found in popular
software programs like Excel. A GRID is simply a table of readings. A location in a
grid is specified by giving a row and column coordinate. The rows are numbered
from 1 to 999 and the columns are labeled from A to ZZ (999 Rows & 52 Columns).
The sequential file format can be viewed as a file as a single column of up to 512
possible rows (readings), and a column of corresponding identifiers associated with
each individual reading. The identifier can be a combination of up to 10 numeric,
alpha, or special characters listed above, while the file name can consist of a
combination of up to 20 of the same character set. Note: The identifier cannot start
or end with a special character. Once a start and end ID are entered into the DFX-7
and the log created, the DFX-7 will automatically generate all the identifiers within
that range.
The following character set listed below are all the allowable characters that will be
used for both file formats: GRID & SEQ LOG. Any combination of these characters
can be used for creating a Name and Note regardless of the selected format. The
allowable characters are as follows:
Numeric characters: 0 9 Alpha Characters: A Z
Special Characters: ! _ # space / . ( )
Multiple grids can be created and stored until the DFX-7s memory is full. If the user
attempts to store a new file in the DFX-7 and the size of the file exceeds the capacity
of memory, the DFX-7 will respond with an error message indicating that the memory
is unable to store the new file.
The DFX-7 can store a total of 8,000 readings with a corresponding screenshot of
the RF or RECT views with every reading, as well as all the DFX-7 settings for every
individual reading. If the graphics option is disabled, not saving screenshots, the
DFX-7 can store a total of 210,000+ readings. The screenshot stored with the
reading will depend on what view the DFX-7 was in at the time it was saved. For
example, if the view was in RECT, then a RECT will be saved with the reading.
In the sections that follow, the procedures for creating, using, and editing GRIDs and
SEQ LOGs have been combined together for the purpose of similarity in overall
functionality and structure. The illustrations below are snapshots of typical GRID and
SEQ LOG file formats:
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Grid File Formats
Sequential Log Formats
Important Note: For the duration of this chapter, all references to GRIDS and SEQ
LOGS should be considered synonymous with references to FILES.
12.2 Creating a new Grid or Sequential Log (File)

Important Note: This entire section is a step by step guide to successfully create a
grid or sequential log. The instructions must be used in the sequential order
specified, as follows:
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Creating a Name
Grid/Seq Log Name : Can contain a combination of up to 20 numeric, alpha,
or special characters listed in the first section of this chapter.
Grid Log
Sequential Log
until the DATA menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until NEW is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT & RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the data formats GRIG
LOG & SEQ LOG.
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Grid Log
Sequential Log
4) Press the ENTER key to display the new Grid or Seq Edit Box.
5) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the new Grid or Seq
List Items until NAME is highlighted.
6) Press the ENTER key to activate the Alpha Edit Box.

7) Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, & RIGHT arrow keys to highlight the appropriate
alpha characters.
8) Press the ENTER key to select a character and advance to the next field of
the Grid or Seq Name.
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9) Use the CLR key to backspace if necessary.

10) Repeat steps 6 - 9 until the Grid or Seq Name (File Name) is completed.
11) Press the OK key to save the Grid or Seq Name and return to the Grid or
Seq List Items menu, or ESC to cancel entering the Grid or Seq Name
(File Name).
Creating a Note
Grid/Seq Log Note: Can contain a combination of up to 20 numeric, alpha, or
special characters listed in the first section of this chapter.
Grid Log
Sequential Log
1) Assuming the Grid or Seq List Items are displayed, use the UP and DOWN
arrow keys to scroll through the new Grid or Seq List Items until NOTE is
highlighted.
2) Press the ENTER key to activate the Alpha Edit Box.
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alpha characters.
the Grid or Seq Note.
6) Repeat steps 3 through 5 until the Grid or Seq Note is completed.
7) Press the OK key to save the Grid or Seq Note and return to the Grid or
Seq List Items menu, or ESC to cancel entering the Grid or Seq Note.
Setting the Coordinates or Start & Stop IDs

Grid: A grid is defined by using coordinates to define the Top Left and the
Bottom Right corners of the grid. Alpha coordinates are horizontal across the
top, and numeric coordinates are vertical down the side. Therefore, to define
the top left corner of the grid, there will be an (X,Y) coordinate. Where X is an
alpha column location across the top and Y is a numeric row location down the
side. Use the same logic when choosing the lower right corner. An individual
grid can be up to 999 rows and 52 columns.
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Sequential: The sequential file format can be viewed as a file as a single

column of up to 512 possible rows (readings), and a column of corresponding
identifiers associated with each individual reading. The identifier can be a
combination of up to 10 numeric, alpha, or special characters listed above,
while the file name can consist of a combination of up to 20 of the same
character set. Note: The identifier cannot start or end with a special character.
Once a start and end ID are entered into the DFX-7 and the log created, the
DFX-7 will automatically generate all the identifiers within that range.
Setting the Top Left(Grid) or Start ID(Seq)
Grid Log
Sequential Log
List Items until TOP LEFT or START ID is highlighted.
2) Press the ENTER key to activate the Coordinate or Start ID Edit Box.
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Grid Log
Sequential Log
3) GRID LOG: Use the LEFT, & RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the Columns,
and the UP, DOWN arrow keys to scroll the Rows.
SEQ LOG: Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, & RIGHT arrow keys to highlight the
appropriate alpha characters. Press the ENTER key to select a character
and advance to the next character field, in conjunction with using the CLR
key to backspace if necessary.
4) Press the OK key to select the coordinate or start ID and return to the Grid
or Seq List Items screen, or ESC to cancel the selection and return to the
Grid or Seq List Items menu.
Setting the Bottom Right(Grid) or End ID(Seq)
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Grid Log
Sequential Log
List Items until LOWER RIGHT or END ID is highlighted.
2) Press the ENTER key to activate the Coordinate or End ID Edit Box.
Grid Log
Sequential Log
3) GRID LOG: Use the LEFT, & RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the Columns,
and the UP, DOWN arrow keys to scroll the Rows.
SEQ LOG: Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, & RIGHT arrow keys to highlight the
appropriate alpha characters. Press the ENTER key to select a character
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and advance to the next character field, in conjunction with using the CLR
key to backspace if necessary.
4) Press the OK key to select the coordinate or end ID and return to the Grid
or Seq List Items screen, or ESC to cancel the selection and return to the
Grid or Seq List Items menu.
Note: If there is not enough memory available to create the grid or sequential
log, an error message box NOT ENOUGH MEMORY will be displayed. Press
the OK or ESC key to return to the Grid or Seq List Items menu. It may be
necessary to free some memory in the DFX-7 at this time. Refer to page 126
for more information on Deleting a File.
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Selecting the Auto Increment Direction

The Auto Increment feature gives the user the ability to specify which direction
to advance the cursor after storing a reading.
Grid Log
Sequential Log
List Items until INCR. DIR or DIRECTION is highlighted.
6) Use the LEFT & RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the Increment direction
NONE, NORTH, EAST, SOUTH, or WEST for a grid, or INC, DEC for a
sequential log.
7) When the correct Increment direction is displayed, continue on to the next
section Graphics.
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Saving Graphics
The DFX-7 provides the user with the ability to save a snapshot of the display
screen and all the current settings of the DFX-7 with every reading, or just save
the reading only. Saving the graphics might be advantageous to the user when
the A-Scan views will be used to graphically save a picture of the scanned
areas for reporting purposes. It might also come in handy when user requires
backup of all the current DFX-7 parameters for each reading. However, if
neither of these requirements are necessary, this option should be disabled in
order make more efficient use to the DFX-7 storage capacity.
Grid Log
Sequential Log
List Items until SAVE GRAPHICS is highlighted.
2) Use the LEFT & RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the Increment direction to
YES or NO.
3) Continue on to the next section Saving a Grid or Seq File.
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Saving a Grid
Once all the parameters are set, the user has the option of saving or canceling
the new grid.
Grid Log
Sequential Log
List Items until CREATE GRID or LOG? is highlighted.
5) Press the ENTER key to accept the grid or seq log parameters and activate
the confirmation screen.
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Grid Log
Sequential Log
6) Press the OK key to save the New Grid or Seq Log, or the ESC key to
cancel the New Grid or Seq Log setup and return to the DATA menu.
7) Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin storing
readings.
12.3 Storing a waveform

Now that a grid or sequential log has been created, its time to make some store
some waveforms. The following procedures outline this process:
Storing a Waveform
Note: Once the gird or sequential log has been created it will automatically be
displayed following the create confirmation screen. It is located at the bottom of
the measurement screen, and can be left open for the duration of the inspection
process. This section assumes the grid or sequential log was just created.
Refer to the section on opening a grid or seq log if the file was created at
another time.
Key Feature: When the DFX-7 is displaying a grid log, pressing the OK
key will initiate an advance to row number option. Use the Left, Right, UP, and
DOWN arrow keys to enter the row number. Once the row number is correctly
displayed, press the OK key to advance directly to that row number in the grid
log.
Key Feature: When the DFX-7 is displaying a grid log, pressing the ESC
key multiple times, will toggle through the display options: RF and RECT views.
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Grid Log
Sequential Log
1) Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the target cell
cursor to the desired storage location.
2) Press the ENTER key to save the current reading in the highlighted cell
location. Its as simple as that!
3) Press the MEAS key to hide the GRID/SEQ View Box, or ENTER to display
it as necessary.
Note: Once the file is open, it will remain open until its closed or another file is
opened by the user. If the gauge is powered off, the DFX-7 will automatically
open the file when powered on. Simply press the ENTER key to display the file
from the measurement screen.
12.4 Viewing stored readings

It is sometimes necessary to go back and view the stored waveforms using the DFX7 without a PC. The following procedures outline this process:
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Viewing Stored Waveforms
Grid Log
Sequential Log
move left until the LOG cell is highlighted.
2) Press the ENTER key to display the Grid Log Box.

3) Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the stored
readings and corresponding display view. Notice as the cursor is moved to
a different cell, the display will be updated with the display view saved with
the reading. Readings stored in memory are indicated by displaying a MEM
in the top left corner of the measurement screen.
4) The user may opt to clear a specific reading and save a new one at any
time. Press the CLR key in the appropriate cell location to clear the reading,
take a new measurement, and press the ENTER key to save the new
reading.
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5) Abort the Grid/Seq Log View Box by pressing the MEAS key at any time.
12.5 Deleting Grids (Files)

Deleting One or All Files from Memory
Deleting One File
the DATA menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until DELETE ONE FILE is highlighted.
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3) Press the ENTER key to display the File List Box.

4) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the stored Files until
the target File to delete is highlighted.
5) Press the OK key to delete the File.
Deleting All Data

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until DELETE ALL DATA is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to activate the confirmation screen.

4) Press the OK key to delete All Files from memory, or the ESC key to abort.
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12.6 Editing a Grid (File)

Once a grid has been created and saved to memory, the user can edit the
Comments or Increment Direction at a later time. The following procedures outline
this process:
Editing a Grid
until EDIT is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the Edit List Box.
4) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the Edit options until
NOTE or INCR. DIR is highlighted.
Note: If editing the INCR. DIR, simply use the LEFT or RIGHT arrow keys to
scroll NONE, NORTH, EAST, SOUTH, WEST for a Grid, or INC, DEC for a Seq
Log. Proceed to step 10.
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5) Press the ENTER key to activate the Alpha Edit box Only used when
editing the NOTE.
alpha characters.
the Comments.
9) Repeat steps 6 - 8 until the Comments are completed.
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10) Press the UP or DOWN arrow key to highlight SAVE CHANGES, and the
OK key to activate the confirmation screen.
11) Press the OK key to save the changes or the ESC key to cancel editing the
file parameters.
12.7 Changing the active File - Open

The user may have transferred grid/seq templates from a PC to the DFX-7, or setup
grids/seq using the DFX-7 at an earlier time. The name of the currently active file is
always displayed at the top of the Grid/Seq Box in measurement mode (refer to
photo below). Its not only important to recognize what file is currently active, but also
be able to change the active file at any time. The following procedures outline this
process:
Changing the Active File
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Grid Log
Sequential Log
until OPEN is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the Grid/Seq List Box.

4) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the grids until the target
grid is highlighted.
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6) Press the OK key to load the file from memory.
7) Press the MEAS key to return to the measure screen.
12.8 Closing an active File - Close

A user might not have a current requirement to store measurements, but a file is
currently open or active and needs to be closed. The following procedures outline
how to close an open or active file:
Closing an Active File
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until CLOSE is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to close the active file. Note: Following the key
press, the CLOSE text will be grayed out indicating the file has been close
and is no longer active.
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CHAPTER THIRTEEN
SETUPS CREATE, STORE, EDIT, & RECALL
13.1 Introduction to Setups
Often times, users are faced with a variety of tasks and applications that are
sometimes similar, but can also be very different. Without the ability to save the
individual calibrations and setups, the user would have to repeat the setup process
on a regular basis for each individual application. This would become tedious rather
quickly, especially considering the number of applications and potential calibration
requirements for setup.
The increased number of features and parameters also adds to the overall setup
time, or amount of time to set up marginal applications with perfection and
understanding. Because of the additional time involved, the DFX-7 has been
equipped with the ability to save these setups to memory and be recalled at any time.
The DFX-7 can store up to 64 custom setups. These setups can be bi-directionally
transferred to and from a PC. Therefore, the user can save as many setups as
necessary for all their individual applications requirements. This saves a great deal
of time and knowledge for future inspections of the same job or project. This feature
also eliminates error between two or more users during the setup and calibration
process.
13.2 Opening a Setup

The DFX-7 is loaded with a number of setups from the factory. These setups can be
opened, edited, and saved to any one of 64 setup locations. If a factory setup is
written over, the user can simply reload the default factory setups at anytime using
the utility software included with the DFX-7. The factory setups are general setups
Only. However, they may serve as an excellent starting point, requiring only minor
adjustments to work for custom applications. It is recommended that user
customized setups be saved to an empty location, and save the factory setups for the
purpose of a general starting point. The following procedures outline how to open
factory and custom setups:
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Opening a Setup
the SETUP menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until OPEN is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the Setup List Box.

4) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the setups until the
target setup is highlighted.
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6) Press the OK key to load the setup from memory.
7) Press the MEAS key to return to the measure screen.
13.3 Saving a Setup

Once the DFX-7 parameters and features have be adjusted for an application, the
user may elect to save these setting to a specific setup location for future use. This
can potentially save time and reduce error between users.
It is sometimes necessary to rename a previously saved setup, or add additional
comments about a particular setup. The setup name may have been entered
incorrectly, or the user needs to use the setup for a completely different project. An
inspectors name or other comments about the project may also be required for
additional documentation purposes. The following procedures outline the necessary
steps for saving and editing a setup:
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Saving a Setup
until SAVE is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the Save Setup Parameters List Box.
4) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the Name and Note
parameters.
138
5) When the parameter to edit is highlighted, press the ENTER key to activate
the Alpha Edit Box.
6) Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll through the
characters, the ENTER key to select characters, and the CLR key to
backspace through the characters, until the Name or Note fields have been
edited.
7) Press the OK key to return to the Save Setup Parameters List Box.
8) If both parameters will be edited, repeat steps 4 7.
9) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll to and highlight SAVE SETUP.
10) Press the ENTER key to activate the Setup List Box.
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Dakota Ultrasonics
11) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the setups until the
target location to save the Setup is highlighted.
12) Press the OK key to activate the confirmation screen.

13) Press the OK key to save the Setup, or ESC to cancel saving the Setup.
Note: The Name and Comments of the Setup can be edited at any time by
simply repeating the Save Setup routine described above. Therefore, the
Save Setup function can also be considered an Edit Function.
13.4 Deleting a Saved Setup

This option allows a user to delete setup files that were previously saved and no
longer needed. Its a simple feature to allow the user to do a bit of house cleaning.
140
Deleting a Setup
until DELETE is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to display the Setups List.

4) Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll to the Setup Name.
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Dakota Ultrasonics
5) When the Setup Name is highlighted, press the ENTER key to display the
confirmation screen.
6) Press the OK key to delete the Setup File.

13.5 Using the Default Setup

The default setup feature was added to the DFX-7 to use, as a last resort, if there are
no setups stored in the gauge factory or otherwise. The only time this might
possibly occur is if the setup file in the DFX-7 was somehow corrupted, and the user
does not have access to a computer to re-load the factory setups back into the DFX7. This gives the user the ability to load and modify a basic setup as follows:
Note: The default file contains no probe zero data. Therefore, a zero must be
performed after loading. Also, the default setup can be loaded when using the flaw
mode feature, to eliminate the probe zero delay value, and start at the initial pulse or
zero.
142
Using the Default Setup
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Dakota Ultrasonics
13.6 Selecting a Language

The DFX-7 is equipped with a language option. Currently, the only languages
supported are English, Spanish, and German. The steps to select one of these
languages are outlined as follows:
Selecting a Language
until LANGUAGE is highlighted.
3) Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the language options.
4) Once the desired language is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to
144
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
USING THE UTILITY SOFTWARE
14.1 Computer System Requirements
DakView will run on many different operating systems: Windows XP, Windows 2000
Professional, Windows 2000 Server, Windows 2000, Vista, or Windows 7 Advanced
Server operating systems running on Intel or AMD hardware.
A Pentium 166MHz or faster processor with at least 32 megabytes of physical RAM
is required. You should have 40 megabytes of free disk space before attempting to
install DakView.
DakView requires an available communications port in order to transfer data to and
from the DFX-7. DakView supports COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4.
USB to Serial Converter
Some newer laptop computers do not have standard serial ports. In this case it is
possible to use a USB to Serial converter. If a serial to USB cable is needed,
Contact Dakota Ultrasonics (pt# N-402-0510).
14.2 Installing DakView

DakView comes on a CD-ROM with an automatic installer program. Place the CD in
your computers CD tray and close the door. Open the CD-ROM by double clicking
on the My Computer ICON, then double click on the CD. Finally, double click on the
SETUP icon to begin the installation.
Refer to the help section in DakView software for the complete operating manual,
setup, and operation.
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Dakota Ultrasonics
14.3 Using the XFER menu (DFX-7)

The XFER menu of the DFX-7 will be used in conjunction with the DakView PC
software. The steps below outline the procedure for accessing the XFER menu and
basic operation as follows:
Accessing and Using the XFER Menu
until the XFER menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
until the desire option is highlighted.
3) Press the ENTER key to activate the option selected.
4) Once the Backup or Restore function has been completed, press the
MEAS key once to return to the menu items, or twice to return to the
measurement mode.
146
APPENDIX A VELOCITY TABLE

Material
Aluminum
Beryllium
Brass
Bronze
Cadmium
Columbium
Copper
Glass (plate)
Glycerine
Gold
Inconel
Iron
Cast Iron
Lead
Magnesium
Mercury
Molybdenum
Monel
Nickel
Nylon
Platinum
Plexiglas
Polystyrene
PVC
Quartz glass
Rubber
vulcanized
Silver
Steel (1020)
Steel (4340)
L-Wave
velocity
in/s
L-Wave
velocity
m/s
0.2510
0.5080
0.1730
0.1390
0.1090
0.1940
0.1830
0.2270
0.0760
0.1280
0.2290
0.2320
0.1800
0.0850
0.2300
0.0570
0.2460
0.2110
0.2220
0.1060
0.1560
0.1060
0.0920
0.0940
0.2260
0.0910
6375
12903
4394
3531
2769
4928
4648
5766
1930
3251
5817
5893
4572
2159
5842
1448
6248
5359
5639
2692
3962
2692
2337
2388
5740
2311
.1240
.3500
.0830
.0880
.0590
.0830
.0890
.1350
.0470
.1190
.1270
.0870-.1260
.0280
.1200
.1320
.1070
.1170
.0430
.0660
.0500
.0420
.0870
-
3130
8880
2120
2235
1500
2100
2260
3430
1194
3020
3230
2200-3220
700
3050
3350
2720
2970
1090
1670
1270
1060
2210
-
0.1420
0.2320
0.2330
3607
5893
5918
.0360
.1280
.1280
1590
3240
3240
147
S-Wave
Velocity
in/s
S-Wave
Velocity
in/s
Dakota Ultrasonics
Steel
Stainless"
Teflon
Tin
Titanium
Tungsten
Uranium
Water
Zinc
Zirconium
0.2230
5664
.1230
3120
0.0540
0.1310
0.2400
0.2040
0.1330
0.0580
0.1660
0.1830
1372
3327
6096
5182
3378
1473
4216
4648
.2500
.0660
.1230
.1130
.0780
.0950
.0890
6350
1670
3120
2870
1980
2410
2250
148
APPENDIX B SETUP LIBRARY

Num
Name
1
2
3
4
5
6
Enter Custom Name
Comment 1
149
Gn/AGC
Velocity
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Warranty Statement
Dakota Ultrasonics warrants the DFX-7 against defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of two years from receipt by the end user. Additionally,
Dakota Ultrasonics warrants transducers and accessories against such defects for a
period of 90 days from receipt by the end user. If Dakota Ultrasonics receives notice
of such defects during the warranty period, Dakota Ultrasonics will either, at its
option, repair or replace products that prove to be defective.
Should Dakota Ultrasonics be unable to repair or replace the product within a
reasonable amount of time, the customer's alternative exclusive remedy shall be
refund of the purchase price upon return of the product.
Exclusions
The above warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from: improper or
inadequate maintenance by the customer; unauthorized modification or misuse; or
operation outside the environmental specifications for the product.
Dakota Ultrasonics makes no other warranty, either express or implied, with
respect to this product. Dakota Ultrasonics specifically disclaims any implied
warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Some states or
provinces do not allow limitations on the duration of an implied warranty, so the
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. However, any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness is limited to the five-year duration of this written warranty.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which may vary from state to state or province to province.
Obtaining Service During Warranty Period
If your hardware should fail during the warranty period, contact Dakota
Ultrasonics and arrange for servicing of the product. Retain proof of purchase in
order to obtain warranty service.
For products that require servicing, Dakota Ultrasonics may use one of the
following methods:
- Repair the product
- Replace the product with a re-manufactured unit
- Replace the product with a product of equal or greater performance
- Refund the purchase price.
After the Warranty Period
If your hardware should fail after the warranty period, contact Dakota Ultrasonics
for details of the services available, and to arrange for non-warranty service.
150

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OPERATION MANUAL

Rev 1.1, April 2014

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION ...................................................................... 1

Dakota Ultrasonics Corporation

1.2 Electrical Warning

2.1 Gauge Type

2.2 Basic Flaw Setup Reference

Matl 1pt: Uncal

Max PRF: 125

Matl 2pt: Uncal

Gain Step: 1.0

Detect Mode: Z-Cross

Gate1 Width: INF

Pulser Volt: 200

Screen Update: 60Hz

2.3 Top & Submenu Reference

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

2.4 Loading the Default Setup

Load Default Setup

3.1 Menu Key (Operation & Sub Menus)

Activating and Navigation of the Menu Items

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.2 Probe Menu

3.3 CAL Menu

3.4 DISP (display) Menu

3.5 TUNE Menu

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.6 GT1 Menu

3.7 GT2 Menu

3.8 TRIG Menu

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.9 AWS Menu

3.10 TCG Menu

3.11 DAC Menu

DAC: Toggles the DAC feature on/off/audible. A Distance Amplitude Correction

3.12 DGS Menu

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.13 SETUP Menu

3.14 DATA Menu

3.15 UTIL (utilities) Menu

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.16 XFER (transfer) Menu

3.17 CLR (clear) Key

3.18 MEAS (measurement mode) Key

3.20 ESC Key

3.21 Arrow Keys

3.22 ENTER key

3.23 MULTI MODE Key

3.24 ON/OFF Key

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.25 DFX-7 Overview

v. DGS Distance Gain Size

3.26 Navigating the Hot Menu

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

3.27 Top & Bottom End Caps

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

DFX-7 Ultrasonic Flaw Detector

4.2 Adjusting the display