Professional Documents
Culture Documents
DELTASCOPE® FMP10
ISOSCOPE® FMP10
DUALSCOPE® FMP20
Instrument manufacturer:
Helmut Fischer GmbH Phone: +49 (0) 70 31 3 03 - 0
Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik Fax: +49 (0) 70 31 3 03 - 710
Industriestraße 21 www.helmut-fischer.com
D-71069 Sindelfingen mail@helmut-fischer.de
On our home page www.helmut-fischer.com you will find the addresses of our sole
agencies and subsidiary companies around the globe.
© 2016 by Helmut Fischer GmbH Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik, Germany.
This operator’s manual remains the copyrighted property of Helmut Fischer GmbH.
All rights reserved. This manual may not be reproduced by any means (print, pho-
tocopy, microfilm or any other method) in full or in part, or processed, multiplied or
distributed to third parties by electronic means without the written consent of Helmut
Fischer GmbH.
Subject to correction and technical changes.
DELTASCOPE®, ISOSCOPE® and DUALSCOPE® are registered trade marks of the
Helmut Fischer GmbH Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik in Germany and/or
other countries.
Note: The fact, that the trademark characters ® and ™ may be missing does not
indicate that such names are free trademarks.
1 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 Symbols and Conventions Used in the Manual . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.3 General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.4 Requirements on the Operating Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.5 Environmental Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.6 Probe Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.7 Handling, Storage and Transport of Calibration Standards 5
1.8 Instrument Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.9 Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
5 Probe Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.1 Handling During Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.2 Assigning a New Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
5.3 Setting Up the Dual Mode for DUAL Probes . . . . . . . . . . 33
8 Measuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
8.1 Preparing for a Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
8.2 Influencing Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
8.3 Making a Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
8.4 Erroneous Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
8.5 Measurements in the Free-Running Display Mode . . . . . 72
9 Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
10 Data Transfer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
10.1 USB Connection to a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
10.2 Installing the USB Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
10.3 Transfer of the Measurement Data to the Computer . . . . 80
10.4 Transmission from the PC to the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . 81
13 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Safety Information
1.1 Symbols and Conventions Used in the Manual
The following symbols and conventions are used in this manual:
Listing.
ENTER Writing convention for instrument keys and command buttons on the
display.
The values shown for the measured coating thicknesses and the texts of
the information lines of the display serve as examples for possible dis-
plays. It is entirely possible that different values appear on the display or
in the printout without having made any mistakes.
Safety Information
EMC
The instrument complies with the laws concerning electromagnetic compatibility
of instruments (2014/30/EC). The measured coating thickness values are not in-
fluenced by the highest level of interference mentioned in the EN 61000-6-2
Standard (which references the Standards EN 61000-4-2, EN 61000-4-3 and EN
61000-4-4).
In particular, the instrument is shielded effectively from strong electromagnetic
fields (e.g., motors, power lines, radio transmission towers).
Low Voltage
The instrument adheres to the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EC.
Probe-
connector ca-
ble
R 50 mm !
During the measurement, the magnetic poles of the probes are placed directly
onto the specimen. Observe the following to keep wear of the magnetic poles
during the contacting measurement to a minimum:
Place the probes speedily yet gently on the specimen sur-
face! Avoid hard impacts!
Safety Information
Standards
The instrument is calibrated using calibration standards in the form of foils or
hard paper with various thicknesses.
Proper condition of the calibration standards is an important prerequisite for a
correct calibration, and thus for a correct measurement.
Observe the following to ensure the proper condition of the calibration standards:
To keep wear of the calibration standards during the contacting mea-
surements to a minimum, use the calibration standards for the calibration
only and not for test measurements!
The Helmut Fischer GmbH Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik (Institute for
Electronics and Metrology) will assume no warranties in the following instances:
Use of instrument or accessories for purposes other than the intended use.
2 Display, Page 8
Padlock:
is enabled, i.e., the keys ZERO and CAL are not active,
the service functions cannot be retrieved, applications
cannot be deleted
( beginning on Page 92).
Arrow circle:
“Free-running display” is enabled, measurements are
displayed continuously when the probe is placed on the
specimen
( beginning on Page 72).
Alternatively:
Display for area measurement
Display for automatic measurement
Battery:
The battery must be replaced or the rechargeable bat-
tery must be charged because the voltage dropped be-
low a minimum value ( beginning on Page 21).
Hourglass:
Measurements are currently not possible because an in-
strument-internal routine is running.
Information lines:
...SCOPE ... Instrument type:
FKA... Instrument-internal software version
The overview on the following pages provides a brief description of the functions
of the individual control panel keys:
Key Function
DEL Deletes the last measured reading
2 x DEL: Deletes all readings
.. during normalization:
1x DEL - Deletes the last reading,
2x DEL - Deletes the measurement series of the base material
.. during calibration:
1x DEL - Deletes the last reading,
2x DEL - Deletes the measurement series of the current cali-
bration standard.
Repeated pressing of DEL: Deletes the measurement series
of the previous calibration standards ( beginning on
Page 72).
.. in all menus:
DEL - Returns to the previous menu or cancels the procedure.
.. and then :
Ends the display of the final result (return to the measurement
screen) without deleting the stored values.
.. and then :
Retrieves the calibration check function.
With the calibration: Sets the target value of the used calibra-
tion standard that will be displayed after the “CAL Target” noti-
fication.
With parameter selection: Selects the desired parameters.
With the calibration: Sets the target value of the used calibra-
tion standard that will be displayed after the “CAL Target” indi-
cator.
With parameter selection: Selects the desired parameters.
5 x ENTER:
Calls the service functions
The instrument settings in the Service Functions menu are
password-protected. “157” will be displayed after pressing EN-
TER 5 times. Press 2 times to increase this value to the fac-
tory-default password “159” and confirm the entry with
ENTER.
Various probe models are available for measurements on objects with different
shapes and different surface properties. Special probes with different measure-
ment ranges are available for the following areas of application, for example:
particularly rough or abrasive surfaces
Particularly soft surfaces
damp, acidic contamination on the surface
particularly thick or thin coatings
hot surfaces
Coatings in pipes and bore holes
For available probe models and the probe model best suited for your application,
see the respective probe data sheets of the brochure “Measurement Probes and
Measurement Aids - Optimized Probes - The Key to Successful Coating Thick-
ness Measurements”. You can obtain this brochure from Helmut Fischer GmbH
Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik or from your authorized supplier.
Calibration standards (in the form of foils or hard paper with different thickness-
es) are used for the calibration; the standards are placed on the uncoated specimen
in order to simulate a coating with a known thickness.
A probe-specific calibration standard set for the master calibration (can be or-
dered as an option) and a probe-specific calibration standard set for the corrective
calibration (included with the probe) are available for each probe model and have
been compiled specifically for this probe model.
You can obtain additional calibration standards of various thicknesses on request
from Helmut Fischer GmbH Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik or from
your authorized supplier.
Reference area
Order
number
of the cali
bration foil
Foil thick-
ness
Guaranteed
error limit
Fig. 2-4 Calibration foil (example) and master foil (example)
At Helmut Fischer GmbH Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik, the foil thick-
nesses of the calibration standards are determined using a mechanical axial cali-
per. The function of the axial caliper has been verified using gauge blocks of the
accuracy class I, which have been verified according to national standards.
The guaranteed error limits stated on the calibration standards refer only to the
identified reference area.
Also verify that all components of the standard contents of the shipment and all
ordered options are present. Notify your authorized supplier or the Helmut Fisch-
er GmbH Institut für Elektronik und Messtechnik if this is not the case.
2.5.2 Options
Available options are:
Various measurement probes
Foils - also with certificate - for the calibration and for verifying the
calibration
Probe-specific calibration standard set for the master calibration -
also with certificate
Charger for NiMh battery
Support stand V12 for reproducible positioning of measurement
probes on the specimen
Jig for angle probes for use in the support stand V12 (e.g., for probe
FGABW 1.3)
coatings.
Determination of the thick- Amplitude-Sensitive Ed-
ness of electrically non-con- dy Current Method Ac-
ducting, non-magnetic cording to DIN EN ISO
coatings on non-ferromagnet- 2360.
ic electrically conducting base
materials. Paint, lacquer or
plastic coatings on, for exam-
ple, aluminum, copper, zinc,
etc as well as anodized coat-
ings on aluminum.
1. Use ON/OFF ( Page 27) to switch the instrument off (if not yet done).
2. Place the instrument with its back pointing up on the table. Open and
remove the battery compartment cover on the rear of the instrument as
depicted below.
3. If old batteries are in the instrument, remove them from the unit. Other-
wise, install new batteries directly; observe the correct polarity of the bat-
teries
Disposal: Do not dispose of batteries with regular household waste!
Place damaged or used batteries / rechargeable batteries in designated
collection containers! Please observe the guidelines in your region con-
cerning proper handling of waste electrical and electronic equipment and
accessories.
- - -
-
LR6 1.5V
LR6 1.5V
+
LR6 1.5V
LR6 1.5V
+ + +
Fig. 4-2 Inserting the batteries and closing the battery compartment cover
1. Use ON/OFF ( Page 27) to switch the instrument off (if not yet done).
3. Plug the probe plug of the new probe into the probe connector socket of
the instrument.
1. 2.
Probe connector plug
Connector socket
Instrument
Exception: A flashing symbol for the measurement method on the display indi-
cates that the instrument does not recognize the connected probe. In such a case:
The probe must be assigned to the instrument ( 5.2 ‘Assigning a New
Probe’, beginning on Page 32)
A new corrective calibration must be performed after the probe has been
assigned ( Page 41)!
Display Explanation
a normalized countrate Xn
a countrate X
Xn and Xs
Wipe off dirt immediately to avoid it from drying onto the surface!
Probe Handling
5.1 Handling During Measurements
Example:
Probe
FGAB1.3
Always hold the probe at its grip sleeve (right fig- Grip
ure). sleeve
Specimen
Always place the probe gently and at a right angle
on the specimen surface.
Slide the grip sleeve to the specimen surface such
that the sleeve rests on the specimen (center and bot-
tom Figure, right).
With the default setting, a beep will signal the mea-
surement capture.
Lift the probe off the specimen before making the
next measurement.
The instrument recognizes if the probe connected to the unit is different than the
one expected according to the probe identification in the current Application.
Reason: Each individual probe has a name consisting of the identification num-
ber and the model designation (e.g., FGAB 1.3). The probe must be “registered”
in the instrument under this name.
If a user has more than one probe of the same probe model, a problem occurs
if a not yet assigned probe is connected to the instrument. In such a case, it is
advisable to identify the probes and/or instruments with numbers.
If the instrument is powered up and a probe other than the one used last is con-
nected, the following display will appear:
Probe Handling
Action display
If a dual probe is connected to the instrument, the dual method that has been set
up will be displayed on the display after power-up ( 4.3.1 ‘Measurement Meth-
od of the Connected Probe’, beginning on Page 27):
The dual method can be set up separately for each Application. The
dual method settings of the other Applications will not be affected.
If the dual method is set to both, both measurement methods can be used to make
measurements. When the probe is placed on the specimen, the correct measure-
ment method will be selected automatically.
If the dual method is set to NC/NF or NF/Fe, only the respective selected mea-
surement method can be used to make measurements. This can ensure, for exam-
ple, that only the coating of interest of a multi-coating system is determined.
For example, to measure the thickness of the Iso coating from Fig. 5-1, the NF
coating must have a certain minimum thickness (e.g., for zinc about 60 μm) and
the dual method must be set to NC/NF:
If the setting is NF/Fe, the ferromagnetic base material will be taken into account
and the thickness of the Iso coating plus the NF coating will be determined.
However, if the setting is both, either the Iso coating alone (for relative thick NF
coatings) or the thickness of the Iso coating plus the NF coating (for relatively
thin NF coatings) will be determined depending on the thickness and electrical
conductivity of the NF coating.
Required materials
Reference part: Uncoated part from the production.
If the mean value is not within the guaranteed error limits, perform a correc-
tive calibration.
With a corrective calibration, a new zero point and one additional point (one-
point calibration with one calibration standard) or two additional points (two-
point calibration with two calibration standards) are established for the calibra-
tion curve and are stored in the instrument.
Required materials
Reference part (uncoated part from the production)
Calibration foils
Required materials
Reference part (coated part from the production)
The following error message appears if a normalization has not yet been per-
formed:
The EEPROM in the probe plug contains memories for the coefficients of two
master calibrations. These two master calibrations differ from each other in the
following manner:
During the user master calibration, the master characteristic can be determined
only if suitable calibration standards are used. The calibration standards are suit-
ed for the user master calibration only if their normalized countrates Xn are with-
in pre-established probe-specific Xn ranges. The Xn values can be displayed after
the 1st step of the user master calibration (normalization) (Query of the probe-
specific limits of the Xn ranges for the connected probe during the master cali-
bration: Page 57.)
Required materials
Uncoated specimen with base material and shape that correspond to those of
the actual parts to be measured
Probe-specific calibration standard set (master foils)
If you press DEL again after deleting the master calibration in order to
exit the menu, subsequent measurements will be made with the factory
master calibration - without a corrective calibration.
Pressing FINAL-RES:
Determination of the Normalized Countrate
Xn of a Calibration Standard During a
Master Calibration Page 59.
Pressing ZERO:
Displaying Xn Ranges for Calibration Stan-
dards for the Master Calibration
Page 57.
The Check calibration function checks whether the mean value of the check
measurement matches the reference value of the calibration standard to within
the scope of measurement uncertainty (in accordance with ISO/IEC Guide 98-3).
When to perform
Acquisition of the current calibration state of the measurement system, i.e.
how accurately does the measurement system measure
Acquisition of the measurement uncertainty of the measurement system for
the measuring application , e.g. necessary for measurements, whose mea-
surement uncertainty is acquired according to ISO/IEC Guide 98-3
Important to know
Using the function, you can check the calibration state and the measuring
accuracy of the measurement system. The result of the check applies only to
measuring application.
If a corrective calibration is saved instrument, the check must be carried out
under the same conditions under which the corrective calibration was carried
out. For example, at the same temperature, with the same calibration stan-
dard, on the same base material etc.
The determined measurement uncertainty only applies to a small area around
the reference value of the calibration standard for which the control mea-
surement was performed. If you wish to determine the measurement uncer-
tainty for a measurement range, perform control measurements on two
calibration standards limiting the measurement range. You can determine the
measurement uncertainty for this measurement range through a linear inter-
polation of the two measurement uncertainties of the control measurements
on the two calibration standards.
Accuracy
The calibration accuracy is limited by the measurement uncer-
tainty of the calibration standard. The measurement uncertainty
of the corrective calibration may not be smaller than the mea-
surement uncertainty of the calibration standards used. To im-
prove the calibration accuracy, you must use calibration
standards with smaller measurement uncertainties for the cor-
rective calibration.
Parameter Description
Calibration is not OK! Carry out a new corrective calibration, as the mea-
sured mean value of the control measurement has an
excessive error to the nominal value of the calibration
standard. Perform a new corrective calibration
( page 41).
Measuring
To make a measurement, place the probe at a right angle on the specimen surface
( Page 31). The probe can be lifted off after measurement acquisition, i.e., after
the reading appears on the display. The instrument is ready to make measure-
ments.
To avoid erroneous readings, do not allow the probe to hover above the spec-
imen.
How high the probe should be lifted off depends on the measurement range
of the probe. To obtain a correct air value, the distance to the specimen
should be at least 3 to 4 times the max. measurable coating thickness.
To allow sufficient time for a measurement acquisition, the time between
individual measurements must be greater than 0.5 seconds.
1. Place the probe: 2. Lift the probe off:
Measurement Object
Fig. 8-1 Measurement using an axial probe
Measurement Object
90°
6. Rotate the probe
90°
Measuring
Measurement acquisition occurs automatically immediately after the probe is
placed on the specimen.
An audible signal will sound after the measurement acquisition (unless it has
been disabled) ( 8.3.3 ‘Audible signals After the Measurement Acquisition’,
beginning on Page 71).
With the “free-running” display mode on, measurement acquisition can be trig-
gered in the following manner ( 8.5 ‘Measurements in the Free-Running Dis-
play Mode’, beginning on Page 72):
Pressing the ENTER key
Transmitting the control character “ESC?” via the interface port (ESC =
ASCII27)
( 10.4.2 ‘Control Commands’, beginning on Page 81)
Regardless of how the measurement acquisition occurred, the reading will appear
on the display following the measurement acquisition.
With external start enabled, the measurement acquisition can be triggered manu-
ally in the following ways once the probe is positioned on the measurement loca-
tion:
Press the key
(not with a normalization or calibration)
Press the FINAL-RES key
(only during a normalization or calibration)
Transmitting the “ES” command via the interface port
( 10.4.2 ‘Control Commands’, beginning on Page 81)
Measuring
An audible signal will sound after the measurement acquisition (unless it has
been disabled). The measurement acquisition signal indicates that a signal arriv-
ing from the probe has been recognized and that the probe can be lifted off the
specimen.
As an option, the measurement acquisition signal can be disabled
( 11.5.1 ‘Audible Signal’, beginning on Page 94).
The other audible signals cannot be disabled!
Display Explanation
[NF/Fe NC/NF] The magnetic induction method was used for the mea-
surement with the dual probe.
[NF/Fe NC/NF] The eddy current method was used for the measurement
with the dual probe.
the data are output continuously via the interface port only if [Free-running
transmit on] has been selected from the Service functions.
Measurements that are outside the measurement range, e.g., when the
probe is lifted off the surface, are also output to the interface port.
Measuring
ter “ESC?” (ESC = ASCII27) via the interface port ( 10.4.2 ‘Control
Commands’, beginning on Page 81),
the acquisition of reading can be triggered using if externally triggered
measurement acquisition is enabled,
it is not possible to retrieve the service functions!
The magnetic poles are subject to increased wear when moving the
probe across a surface.
Measuring
Dual Probes
The last measurement that has been made with a dual probe prior to turning on
the “free-running” display mode determines the measurement method that will be
used for the measurement in the “free-running” display mode.
The last used measurement method is shown on the display ( 8.3.4 ‘Display of
the measurement method in use when making measurements with dual probes’,
beginning on Page 71).
Automatic base material detection and selection of the correct measure-
ment method is not enabled for measurements in the “free-running” dis-
play mode.
If the magnetic induction method was used before the “free-running” display
mode was turned on, the measurements in the free-running mode will be made
according to the magnetic induction method as well. The dual probe will then
measure only on ferromagnetic base materials. The probe will not measure on
other base materials, i.e., [- - - -] will remain on the display.
If the eddy current method was used before the “free-running” display mode was
turned on, the measurements in the free-running mode will be made according to
the eddy current method as well. The dual probe will make correct measurements
only on non-ferromagnetic base materials; erroneous measurements will be taken
on ferromagnetic base materials.
If no measurements were made before the “free-running” display mode is turned
on, the measurements in the free-running mode will be made according to the
magnetic induction method.
The following parameters will be determined from the readings during the eval-
uation and can be displayed:
Number of evaluated readings
Standard deviation s ,
Lowest reading,
Range.
Evaluation
Action display
Bi-directional data exchange occurs via the interface. The following operations
are possible when the interface port is connected to a computer (PC):
Transfer of the readings and the characteristic statistical data from the instru-
ment to the PC.
Remote control of the instrument by sending commands from the PC to the
instrument.
Requesting measurement data and other data (e.g., the name of the current
Application) by sending commands from the PC to the instrument.
Transfer of data (e.g., designations for Applications) from the PC to the
instrument by sending commands from the PC to the instrument.
Both commercial or one's own data processing programs can be used to process
the data exported by the instrument. Information regarding import and processing
of the data using such programs may be obtained from the respective manuals for
these programs.
Data Transfer
Connect the USB port of the instrument with the USB port of the PC.
Use the USB cable supplied with the instrument.
Fig. 10-1 Side view of the instrument with the USB port
1. Connect the instrument to the USB port of your PC. The “Found New
Hardware Wizard” opens.
2. Follow the instructions of the Windows wizard. If the driver is not found
automatically, select or enter the source to search for the USB driver (e.g.,
CD-ROM drive. removable media (CD, diskettes, ...) or local path).
Windows XP®:
Ignore the message for the Windows Logo Test (Window “Hardware
Installation”). Click the Continue Installation button and continue the
installation.
The successful installation of the USB driver can be verified in the Windows De-
vice Manager.
Open the Device Manager: Start/Control Panel/System, Hardware tab,
Device Manager button.
You will find an additional COM port under “Ports (COM & LPT)”, e.g.,
Data Transfer
10.4.1 Transfer Formats
All input and output data are transferred as ASCII-Strings followed by a CR
and a LF control character (Carriage Return Line Feed; CR = ASCII13, LF =
ASCII10).
The max length of data received by the instrument is 20 characters.
Command Function
System Language 85
Contrast 86
Lighting 87
Autom. off 89
Initialization 90
USB* Send free-running mode 91
*USB/Bluetooth“ will dis-
played if the option Blue-
tooth is activated in the
instrument.
„USB/COM“ will displayed if
the option COM is activated
in the instrument.
Measured variable 99
Dual method 100
Units metric/imperial 101
Storage mode save/don't save/delete on off 102
About ... Information about the instrument configura- 103
tion
Do not select a language for which you do not understand the charac-
ters, e.g., Cyrillic! You might have difficulty returning to a language that is
familiar to you!
Use the contrast setting to adjust the display brightness continuously. The con-
trast value can be between 0 (brightest display) and 99 (darkest display). The de-
fault contrast setting is 60.
or always off
Enter After confirming the selection “always off”
with ENTER you are immediately returned
to the menu in order to enter additional set-
tings.
or always on
Enter After confirming the selection “always on”
with ENTER, you are immediately returned
to the menu in order to enter additional set-
tings.
all settings in the service functions are reset to the default settings (i.e., to the
factory settings) (exception: language); thus, if necessary the settings will
have to be made again.
the coefficients of the master characteristic that is stored in the EEPROM of
the probe plug are not changed because the re-initialization concerns only
the memory of the instrument.
ENTER
Select the desired free-running mode by
pressing the arrow key or and confirm
the selection with ENTER.
The restricted operating mode will remain enabled even after the instrument is
switched off and on.
The measurement display resolution specifies the resolution for displaying the
readings on the display.
The menu option “Dual method” appears only if a dual probe is connected.
12.1 Malfunctions
The error messages (E***) and warning messages (W***) that may occur during
instrument operation are contained in the overview on the following pages.
Instrument corrected -- --
W 003 faulty settings autono-
mously.
Options
corrected !
Accuracy
Qualitative designation for the degree of approximation of a measurement
result to the true value. Usually, the accuracy is divided into USB Port
and Precision.
Adjustments Calibration
Application
Measurement Application of the User.
The instrument memory, where the coefficients from the corrective cali-
bration/normalization (adjustment of the measurement system to the spec-
imen / coating/base material adjustment, system adjustment), the param-
eter settings and the measurement data for a certain measuring application
of the user are stored is called an application.
Application Memory
The instrument memory contains all data and measurements that are rele-
vant to a measuring application.
Application Selection
Menu page(s) in the instrument, where all Applications are listed that have
been set up thus far. Use the command button APPL or use
File/Open to select an Application.
Baud
Unit of the speed for transferring information (data). 1 Baud corresponds
to a transfer rate of one bit per second.
Baud Rate
Data transfer rate. Used mainly in connection with terminal programs for
data transfer. Since data are transferred via a serial port, the transfer rate
is calculated in bits per second.
Glossary
Data can be transmitted and received by both participants (for example,
from the instrument to the PC and from the PC to the instrument).
Bit
(Binary Digit), binary number. 1 bit is the smallest unit in the binary num-
ber system. The value of a bit is 0 or 1. Being the smallest unit of infor-
mation in a computer, a bit forms the basis of every computer system. 8
bits are combined to a byte and several bytes to a word.
Block
Grouping of single readings. Several measurements are combined into a
block. A key symbol on the display indicates the end of each block (con-
clusion of a block).
Block, open
Group of single readings for which the block has not yet been ended.
Block Result
Statistical evaluation of the measurement data of a block. E.g., mean val-
ue, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, range, minimum value,
maximum value, number of single readings per block.
Block Size
Number of single readings that are combined to form a block.
Calibration
In this manual, the term calibration is used as a comprehensive term for
the adjustment and the calibration: Adjustment of the instrument using
calibration standards to adapt the measuring system (instrument and
probe) to the measuring application.
Calibration Curve
(Characteristic, master characteristic) Quantitative relationship between
the signal of the probe and a scale for the coating thickness as represented
Calibration Standard
(Standards) Object with essentially the same attributes as the specimen,
which differs only in the coating thickness and with a coating thickness
that has been determined with a very accurate measurement method. May
also be a foil.
Capability Indexes
The process capability is evaluated using the factors Cp and Cpk.
The capability index Cp is a measure for the spread of a process and its
ability for continuously producing parts according to specifications.
The capability index Cpk takes the position of the mean value in relation
to set specification limits into account.
OGW – UGW OGW – d .. d .. – UGW
Cp = ------------------------------------ and Cpk = ---------------------------- ; ----------------------------
6 ̂ 3 ̂ 3 ̂
Glossary
CR is a character of the ASCII-character set (ASCII13) and has the fol-
lowing function: When data or commands are entered, the line one is cur-
rently working on will be closed by pressing the CR-key (Enter or Return
key on the PC keyboard) and the information that has been entered will be
processed accordingly. The curser is again placed at the beginning of the
line. CR is usually used together with the LF (Line Feed) character to start
the next line at the beginning of the line.
Chi-Squared-Test
Statistical mathematical test method to determine an existing normal dis-
tribution of the measurements (for more than 30 measurements).
Class
Range between a lower and an upper class boundary (limit values). The
readings of a measurement series can be sorted according to such classes
if they cover the entire measurement range without gaps. The class con-
tents (frequency or number of measurements per class) plotted over the
classes is called a histogram.
Coefficient of Variation V
Confidence Borders
An area of the sum frequency chart, where the sum plot can be found.
With 95% certainty (confidence level), the true portion following below
the respective feature value (e.g., coating thickness) can be found within
these borders. For a normal distribution, the confidence borders ptop and
pbottom are calculated as follows:
d – d . 2
--------------
d – d. 1 ̂
p unten = -------------- – 1,96 --- + ----------------------
̂ n 2n – 2
2
1 y p i -
p oben i = y p i + 1,96 --- + -------------------
n 2n – 2
Confidence Level u
Confidence Interval u
Count Rate
X (Phi). Probe signal displayed as a number of electrical impulses. Phi
corresponds directly to the measured quantity. The Phi values range be-
tween the two extremes Xmin and Xmax.
In general, displaying the count rate X serves the purpose of determining
whether a noticeable measurement effect is present for a particular mea-
suring application.
The numeric values for the normalized count rate XN are between 0
and 1 and are calculated according to the following equation:
Corrective calibration
One-point or two-point calibration. Adjustment of the instrument using 1
Glossary
and adjustment.
During the corrective calibration, the master characteristic (calibration
curve) is adjusted to the individual measuring application. The obtained
coefficients are stored in the active Application (measuring application
memory). The master characteristic itself remains unchanged.
Cu
Copper
Curvature
The curvature is a measure for how pointed (Excess) or how flat (Kurto-
sis) a distribution is compared to a normal distribution. A positive curva-
ture is an indication for a relatively narrow and pointed distribution. A
negative curvature indicates a relatively flat and wide distribution. The
curvature for a normal distribution is Zero.
S1
d. or d
Arithmetic mean value of the single readings, called arithmetic mean val-
ue (d., d ). The arithmetic mean value d. is the sum of all single readings
di of a measurement series (of a block), divided by the number of measure-
ments.
d. Mean value (block mean val-
d 1 + d 2 + d 3 + ... + d n 1 n
d . = ----------------------------------------------------
n
- = --- d
n i=1 i
ue)
n Number of single readings (in
a block)
di Single readings (of a block)
2
d..
Mean value of the block mean values of selected blocks. Analogous to the
arithmetic mean value (d.), the block mean values are added up and divid-
ed by the number of evaluated blocks nBl.
1 n Bl
d .. = -------
n Bl
d .i
i=1
d.. Mean value of the block mean values
nBl Number of blocks
d.i Block mean values
DUALSCOPE
Protected brand name of Helmut Fischer GmbH for the measuring instru-
ment.
th base material
End of Block
Mark after n single readings. As a rule, a key symbol on the display indi-
cates the end of a block.
Glossary
Estimated Value for the Standard Deviation ̂ SS
Evaluation
Computation of statistical parameters such as mean value, standard devi-
ation, etc. as well as the graphical presentation of the measurements, e.g.,
in a sum frequency chart.
Evaluation Menu
Selection menu for the evaluation and presentation of the measurements
as well as for exporting the measurements, evaluations and presentations
via the USB-port to a USB-stick or a printer. Use the EVALUATE button
or
Eval/Final result to call the evaluation menu.
External Start
A setting in the menu function File/Properties/Measurement Accep-
tance.
Measurement Acceptance can be initiated by tapping the menu function
Meas/Initiate External Start, the command button Ext, by transmitting
commands from a connected PC.
Excess Curvature
FDD® Evaluation
Graphical presentation of the mean values of the measurement blocks (=
Features) in an ascending rank order.
Application:
By using the FDD®, existing systematic differences of coatings can be
shown quickly and clearly in a graphical format
Example 1:
When painting car bodies, the desired homogeneous coating distribution
is not achieved if the settings of one or more spray robots is wrong or dis-
turbed. If the readings of one feature (e.g, the hood) are combined into one
measurement block, then the systematic differences between various fea-
tures (hood, roof, doors, trunk lid, etc.) can be recognized quickly using
FDD®, and corrective measures can be initiated promptly.
Example 2:
When electroplating racks, parts may be coated inadequately due to erro-
neous current contacting or shadowing of flux lines. If the readings of ad-
Fe
Magnetizable material made of steel or iron.
Final Result
Evaluation of all measurements or selected blocks of an Application (mea-
surement application memory).
Free-Running Mode
With the probe placed on the specimen, measurements are displayed con-
tinuously. Use the menu function Meas/Free-Running to enable the
free-running mode.
Grubbs Test
Test method for outlier rejection. A method developed by Grubbs to test,
whether the highest or lowest single reading should be considered an out-
lier.
Group Separator
Mark for the end of a block that can be transferred together with the mea-
surement data to the PC. Default setting ASCII character 29.
GUM
Abbreviation for the guide ISO/IEC Guide 98-3, "Guide to Expression of
Uncertainty in Measurement".
Histogram
Graphical presentation of all readings of an Application (measuring appli-
cation memory) according to their portions in classes (e.g., coating thick-
ness ranges), where the class frequencies are illustrated by the contents of
rectangles. The class widths should be of equal size. Among other criteria,
the informational value of statistical results depends on the shape of this
distribution curve.
Glossary
Transfer or connecting point between components, circuits or programs.
A data exchange is carried out via the interface. With serial interfaces, the
data are transferred in individual bits (i.e., one bit after another), with par-
allel interfaces, several bits are transferred simultaneously.
Iso
Insulating material, electrically non-conducting, non-magnetizable.
Kurtosis Curvature
LF Line Feed
Line Feed
LF line feed. Advances the printer paper by one line. Is usually used to-
gether with the CR (carriage return) character to start the next line at the
beginning.
LSL
Lower specification limit; is the smallest reading allowed at the measure-
ment location.
Max
Highest measured value of a test series.
Maximum Max
Maximum Value
Maximum value measured in a test series.
Mean Range R.
Mean Value d. or
Measuring
To measure means to compare!
The probe signal generated at the measuring position is compared to the
probe signal on the calibration standard. Using the calibration curve, the
instrument converts the probe signal to the measurement result, which is
presented in the specified unit of measurement.
Measuring Application
Properties of the test specimen with regard to measurement quantity, ge-
ometry, geometric dimensions, permeability, etc. The test method, the
measurement display mode, the probe and the type of instrument are all
determined by the measurement application.
Measurement Error
The difference between the actual and the measured value of a measured
quantity. For measuring instruments, there is a distinction between ran-
dom (unpredictable) and systematic (correctable) measurement errors.
Glossary
affect the trueness and the reproducibility. Systematic measurement er-
rors are far more prevalent in practical applications. Systematic measure-
ment errors can be traced back to 1. faulty calibration, 2. operating or per-
sonal errors and 3. deviations in the test conditions (inhomogeneities,
instabilities, material aging, etc.). They tend to lean in one direction. With
appropriate care, the influences 1. and 2. can usually be avoided or cor-
rected or taken into account in the result.
Measurement Location
A limited and clearly defined location within a reference area of the spec-
imen, where the coating thickness is to be determined.
Measurement Method
A procedure and process for obtaining information from the specimen
concerning its properties. The measurement method is based on scientific
knowledge and is determined by the measuring application.
Measuring Mode
This is the condition in which the instrument can capture and display mea-
surement data. The display mode is determined by the respective mea-
surement display settings.
Measurement Object
Object on whose surface the measurements are performed to determine
the coating thickness.
Measurement Range
The range between two limit values within which a measurement is pos-
sible at a specified trueness and precision. In a narrower sense, it refers to
the range of the scale of an analog instrument. The measurement range de-
pends on the measurement method, the design of the probe and the mea-
suring application.
Measurement Series
A series of single readings between two block or final results.
Min
Lowest measured value of a test series.
Minimum Value
Minimum value measured in a test series.
NF Metals
Non-ferrous, non-magnetizable metals.
NF
Non-magnetizable material.
Ni
Nickel
Normal Distribution
Gaussian normal distribution, Gaussian distribution, bell curve.
Probability distribution discovered by C. F. Gauß in 1794.
If a quantity X is classified as having normal distribution, 68.3 % of the
observed values X are within the -interval of the spread, around the
mean value of the quantity X. I.e., the following applies to 68.3 % of the
observed values: – X + . In the following figure, this interval is
identified by the gray areas underneath the curve.
Probability distribution
P(X) of a quantity X
with a normal distribu-
Probability P(X)
tion.
- + X
Glossary
classified as having normal distribution. However, the following fact is
of great significance: If several random samples of equal extent are
drawn from any population (blocks) and their mean values (block mean
values) are determined, these mean values will always have normal dis-
tribution (central limits theorem). The mean value of these random sam-
ple mean values (block mean values) is an estimated value ( ̂ = d.) for
the mean value of the population. Due to the normal distribution, the
measurement uncertainty u can be calculated using the standard devia-
tion of the random sample mean values.
The sum frequency chart shows, whether a quantity has normal distribu-
tion, with a straight line indicating normal distribution.
In the instrument, the test, whether the measurements at hand (random
samples) have a normal distribution is carried out using the Kolmogoroff
Smirnoff Test (for up to 30 readings) and the Chi-Squared Test (30 read-
ings and up).
Normalization
Adjustment of the instrument to the material properties of the coating and/
or the base material (probe dependent). Thus, the normalization essential-
ly defines the zero point or end point, respectively. A normalization is cru-
cial for correct measurements due to the electrical conductivity and the
permeability of the specimen materials. The coefficients of the adapted
calibration plot are stored in the active Application (measurement appli-
cation memory).
Offline
State of a peripheral device (printer or PC) connected to the instrument
that does not allow it to receive data.
Online
State of a peripheral device (printer or PC) connected to the instrument
that allows it to receive data. In this state, the device is ready for operation.
Open Block
Group of readings for which the block has not yet been closed.
Outliers
Readings that are significantly lower or higher than the other readings of
a measurement series and that can, therefore, be considered unexpected
and not acceptable.
Parity)
An error check method for data transmission, where the cross-sum of all
error-free transmitted bit groups must always be even or odd. During data
transfer, the parity bits are linked to the data bits of each character or byte
to be transferred. In every word, this bit is set such that the sum of the
Ones of a byte are always an even or odd number. This corresponds to an
even or odd parity. The type of parity requirement must be defined prior
to data transfer. By checking the parity, the recipient can determine if bit
transfer errors occurred.
Part Specimen
Population
All pieces or specimens to be measured. In practical applications, for ex-
ample, all parts of a production unit, batch, etc.
Precision
Agreement between the individual measurement results under precisely
defined test conditions; the precision is comprised of reproducibility and
repeatability precision.
Probe
Transducer that delivers an electrical signal to the instrument based on a
particular measurement method. This signal is proportional to the coating
thickness and is converted in the instrument into a corresponding coating
thickness value according to the master characteristic and the normaliza-
tion and calibration coefficients of the open Application (measurement
application memory). All probes of Helmut Fischer GmbH have been
master-calibrated in the plant.
Probe Frequency
A generator feeds the measurement probe with an alternating current of a
certain frequency. The applied frequency is determined by the measuring
Glossary
Quality Assurance
All measures taken in a plant that are concerned with ensuring that a con-
trolled production within established quality requirements can take place.
One partial aspect of it is quality monitoring of which coating thickness
measurement is a part.
R
The range R equals the difference between the highest reading (Maxi-
mum) dmax and the lowest reading (Minimum) dmin of a measurement se-
ries.
R = dmax - dmin
R.
Mean range of all block ranges.
R.: Mean range
R. = ̂ d 2
̂ : Estimated standard deviation of the population
d2: Factor, depends on the random sample size, can be obtained
from popular published tables.
Random Sample
Some parts of the population. In practical applications, a small part of a
production batch taken from the production according to random sam-
pling methods; the results of the random sample are extrapolated to the en-
tire batch (lot, production unit).
Range R
Reading
Numeric reading of an instrument supplemented by the unit of measure-
ment. The measurement can be obtained from the result of a single read-
ing or from the arithmetic mean of several single readings (for example
for the averaged display value (i individual values)).
Reference Area
A defined partial area of the specimen surface with a known coating thick-
ness.
Reproducibility
Term for the differences of the individual measurement results under re-
producibility conditions. Reproducibility conditions refer to measure-
ments on a specimen according to a specified method, e.g., at different
times or with different instruments or with different observers or at differ-
ent locations. Measurement results that have been obtained by different
persons using different instruments at different locations on the identical
specimen must be comparable. The reproducibility is the basis for com-
puting the confidence interval for the expected value.
̂ SS
Estimated value for the standard deviation of the population. Is output
only in the final result for Applications (measurement application memo-
ries), for which automatic block creation has been enabled.
̂ : Estimated value of the standard deviation of the population
R.
̂ = ----- R. Mean range
d2
d2: Factor, depends on the random sample size, can be obtained from
popular published tables.
Glossary
The standard deviation s is a measure for the spread of the single readings
of a measurement series from their common mean value. It is equal to the
mean square deviation of the single readings from the mean value and is
calculated in the following manner:
s: Standard deviation
1 - n d.: Mean value across all single readings
2
s = ----------- d . – d i
n–1 n: Number of single readings
i=1
The following figure points out that two very different measurement
series can have different standard deviations even with the same mean
value.
sa
Spread of the mean values of various groups (“Blocks” Block), corrected
with regard to the spread of the single readings. To be able to calculate sa,
the spread of the group mean values SII must be significantly greater than
the spread of the single values SI within the group.
If, for example, the same number of measurements per measurement spot
is performed at several measurement spots, and the measurements per
spot are combined in one group (block), then SI is a measure for the instru-
ment spread and sa is the product spread adjusted by the instrument
spread.
F beo – 1
sa = S I -------------------
-
n Bl
Single Reading
Measurement result that is displayed or printed after a single measurement
at the measurement location.
Skewness
Measure for the asymmetry of a single-peak probability distribution
around its mean value. A positive skewness indicates a distribution with a
peak that stretches more toward values that are greater than the mean val-
ue. A negative skewness indicates a distribution with a peak that stretches
more toward values that are smaller than the mean value. The skewness
for a symmetric distribution (normal distribution) is zero.
Specification Limits
The upper specification limit (USL) is the highest reading and the lower
specification limit (LSL) is the lowest reading allowed at the measurement
location.
Standard Deviation s
Start Bit
With asynchronous serial data transfer, a start bit is transmitted before the
data word to be transferred. With the logic One to logic Zero transition of
Glossary
Statistics
The result of a measurement series, i.e., the compilation of a large number
of single readings into a few characteristic quantities (e.g., mean value,
standard deviation, etc.)
Statistical Evaluation
Calculation using the measurement data according to statistical mathe-
matical methods.
Stop Bit
With asynchronous serial data transfer, the stop bit is added to the data
word to be transferred. 1 to 2 bit logic Ones are used. After the stop bit,
the transmitter remains at logic One until the start bit of the next character
arrives.
Student Factor t
Sum Frequency
The sum frequency is that portion of parts (in percent), where the coating
thickness is smaller or equal to a particular measurement. In a sum fre-
quency chart, the sum frequency can be viewed referenced to the coating
thickness. Example: One realizes that 9 % of the parts exhibit a coating
thickness of less than or equal to 39 μm (1.56 mils).
Supervisor Code
Password for a menu function to prevent unintended changes of the pa-
rameter settings.
Factory default password: 159
The user can change the factory default password.
System Check
A significant part of monitoring the measurement devices. Calibration
standards or better yet, reference samples are used to check the calibra-
tion and to ensure the measurement stability.
Test val E
Coefficient for the measurement accuracy/quality of the calibration of the
opened application file. This test value is calculated in the Check calibra-
tion menu function from the measurement readings of the control mea-
surement and the characteristics of the standard on which the control mea-
surement was carried out. The test value is the result of the ratio of
difference to uncertainty (k=2).
E 1: The measurement accuracy for the opened application file is ok for
this standard and cannot be further improved by this standard. The differ-
ence between the mean value from the control measurement and the nom-
inal value (= reference value) of the standard used for measurement can-
not be distinguished from the measurement uncertainty of the calibration
(measurement uncertainty (k=2)).
E > 1: The mean value of the control measurement has an excessive devi-
ation to the nominal value of the standard used for measurement. Perform
a corrective calibration to improve the measurement accuracy for the
opened application file.
xm – xr
Test value E = ---------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2 2
U m k=2 + U r k=2
s xm
U m k=2 = 2 t 68.27 %, n - 1 -------------
n
T (Gl. 1) or entry directly value for U(k=2)
U r k=2 = 1.653 -------
3
Glossary
tolerance level, the calculation takes place according to the formula Gl. 1
T: Amount of the specified tolerance data of the standard
1.653:Factor for the confidence level of 95.45 % (k=2), resulting from the variance of the rectangular
distribution. For the confidence level of 68.27 % (k=1), the factor is 1.
Trueness
Agreement between the “true” value and the mean value of a measure-
ment result generally obtained under practical circumstances. The “true”
value is considered a value known based on mathematical theoretical ap-
proaches. Since such values are rarely available, a value traced to national
or international standards is generally assumed to be “correct”. This “cor-
rect” value is often called the “true” value.
u
Every instrument is subject to random measurement errors ( Accuracy).
With a certain probability (the confidence level), the presumed “true” val-
ue () of the measured quantity lies within an interval around the mea-
sured mean value d. of a measurement series. The interval is also refereed
to as confidence interval. The boundaries of this interval are at a distance
u, the measurement uncertainty, from the mean value .
d. – u d. + u
s xm
U m k=2 = 2 t 68.27 %, n - 1 -------------
n
Um: Measurement uncertainty (k=2) of the control measurement based on stochastic errors
t: Student factor (can be found in commonly available reference books e.g. "Formeln und Tabel-
len der angewandten mathematischen Statistik" by Graf, Henning, Stange and Wilrich). For
example, at a 68.27 % confidence level (k=1) and n = 10, the Student factor is t68.27; 9 = 1.07.
s: Standard deviation of the mean value xm from the control measurement
n: Number of control measurements on the standard
Ur: Specified measurement uncertainty (k=2) of the standard, direct entry value or, with specified
tolerance level, the calculation takes place according to the formula Gl. 1
T: Amount of the specified tolerance data of the standard
1.653:Factor for the confidence level of 95.45 % (k=2), resulting from the variance of the rectangular
distribution. For the confidence level of 68.27 % (k=1), the factor is 1.
Unit of Measurement
Unit for displaying measurement data. In coating thickness measurement,
the common units are μm and mils. 100 μm = 3.9 mils.
u-Scale
Scale on the right ordinate in the printout of the sum frequency chart. Lin-
ear transformation of the measurements into standardized features u. The
transformation serves comparison and analysis purposes. The standard-
ized feature values are without dimension; their arithmetic mean u is Zero
and their standard deviation (u) is always 1.
u: Feature value
–
u = d------------ d: Measured value
: Mean value of the population
: Standard deviation of the population
Glossary
Interface that is used for connecting instruments with PCs, printers, USB
sticks and USB keyboards.
USL
The upper specification limit (USL) is the highest reading allowed at the
measurement location.
V
Coefficient of variation. The spread of a measurement series in percent,
i.e., the standard deviation in reference to the mean value. V [%] is a char-
acteristic process constant. A sudden change in V [%] indicates a change
in the process conditions. V is calculated in the following manner:
s V: Coefficient of variation
V = ----- 100 %
d. s: Standard deviation
d. Mean value
V̂ VDach
Estimated value of the coefficient of variation.
Variance
Mean squared deviation. The square root of the variance is called standard
deviation (s).
s2 : Variance
1 n
2 2
s = ------------ d i – d . d.: Mean value of the single readings
n–1i=1
di: Single readings
n Number of measurements
Variance-Analytical Evaluation
Statistical method for checking the mean values of various random sam-
ples to determine, whether they are comparable or exhibit significant dif-
ferences. The spreads of the group mean values is compared to the mean
spread of the single readings within the groups.
The check value Fbeo is determined ( sa) and based on a comparison
If the condition Fbeo FTab is met, the mean values of the random samples
belong to a common population. If Fbeo > FTab, then the mean values are
significantly different. The characteristic value sa ( sa) states the spread
of the mean values corrected with regard to the spread of the single read-
ings.
FTab Table value of the F-distribution with Ff1, f2, 1-
f Degrees of freedom with f1 = (k-1) and f2 = k (n-1)
Significance level
X Count Rate
XN Count Rate
W
Warning messages 108
Warrantee 6
Weight 15
X
Xn 59