En 12668-1-2010 PDF

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BRITISH STANDARD BS EN
12668-1:2010
Non-destructive testing
Characterization
and verification of
ultrasonic examination
equipment
Part 1: Instruments
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ICS 19.100
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BS EN 12668-1:2010
National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 12668-1:2010. It

supersedes BS EN 12668-1:2000 which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee WEE/46, Non-destructive testing.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on
request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity
from legal obligations.
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This British Standard Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

was published under the
authority of the Standards
Policy and Strategy Date Comments
Committee on 28 February
2010
BSI 2010
ISBN 978 0 580 58073 4

BS EN 12668-1:2010
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 12668-1

NORME EUROPENNE
EUROPISCHE NORM February 2010
ICS 19.100 Supersedes EN 12668-1:2000
English Version
Non-destructive testing - Characterization and verification of

ultrasonic examination equipment - Part 1: Instruments
Essais non destructifs - Caractrisation et vrification de Zerstrungsfreie Prfung - Charakterisierung und

l'appareillage de contrle par ultrasons - Partie 1 : Verifizierung der Ultraschall-Prfausrstung - Teil 1:
Appareils Prfgerte
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 25 December 2009.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN Management Centre has the same status as the
official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland,
Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMIT EUROPEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPISCHES KOMITEE FR NORMUNG
Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

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2010 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 12668-1:2010: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Contents Page
Foreword ..............................................................................................................................................................3
1 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................4
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................................4
3 Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................4
4 Symbols ..................................................................................................................................................7
5 General requirements for compliance .................................................................................................8
6 Manufacturer's technical specification for ultrasonic instruments..................................................9
6.1 General ....................................................................................................................................................9
6.2 General attributes ..................................................................................................................................9
6.3 Display ....................................................................................................................................................9
6.4 Transmitter .......................................................................................................................................... 10
6.5 Receiver and attenuator ..................................................................................................................... 10
6.6 Monitor output..................................................................................................................................... 11
6.7 Additional information ....................................................................................................................... 11
7 Performance requirements for ultrasonic instruments .................................................................. 11
8 Group 1 tests ....................................................................................................................................... 13
8.1 Equipment required for group 1 tests .............................................................................................. 13
8.2 Stability against temperature ............................................................................................................ 14
8.3 Stability against voltage variation..................................................................................................... 16
8.4 Transmitter pulse parameters ........................................................................................................... 16
8.5 Receiver ............................................................................................................................................... 18
8.6 Monitor gate ........................................................................................................................................ 21
8.7 Monitor gates with proportional output............................................................................................ 22
8.8 Digital ultrasonic instruments ........................................................................................................... 26
9 Group 2 tests ....................................................................................................................................... 27
9.1 Equipment required for group 2 tests .............................................................................................. 27
9.2 Physical state and external aspects ................................................................................................. 28
9.3 Stability ................................................................................................................................................ 28
9.4 Transmitter pulse parameters ........................................................................................................... 29
9.5 Receiver ............................................................................................................................................... 30
9.6 Linearity of time-base ......................................................................................................................... 32
Annex A (normative) Special conditions for ultrasonic instruments with logarithmic amplifiers ......... 44
A.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... 44
A.2 Basic requirements............................................................................................................................. 44
A.2.1 Measuring accuracy ........................................................................................................................... 44
A.2.2 Vertical display "linearity" ................................................................................................................. 44
A.3 Tests ..................................................................................................................................................... 44
Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................................... 45
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BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Foreword
This document (EN 12668-1:2010) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 138 Non-destructive
testing, the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by August 2010, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at
the latest by August 2010.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN 12668-1:2000.
EN 12668, Non-destructive testing Characterization and verification of ultrasonic examination equipment,

consists of the following parts:
Part 1: Instruments
Part 2: Probes
Part 3: Combined equipment
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
1 Scope
This European Standard specifies methods and acceptance criteria for assessing the electrical performance
of analogue and digital ultrasonic instruments for pulse operation using A-scan display, employed for manual
ultrasonic non-destructive examination with single or dual-element probes operating within the centre
frequency range 0,5 MHz to 15 MHz. Ultrasonic instruments for continuous waves are not included in this
standard. This standard may partly be applicable to ultrasonic instruments in automated systems but then
other tests can be needed to ensure satisfactory performance.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 1330-4:2010, Non-destructive testing Terminology Part 4: Terms used in ultrasonic testing
EN 12668-3, Non-destructive testing Characterization and verification of ultrasonic examination

equipment Part 3: Combined equipment
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 1330-4:2010 and the following apply.
3.1
amplifier frequency response
variation of the gain of an amplifier versus frequency
NOTE It is usually specified by a plot of gain (normalized to the peak gain value) versus frequency.
3.2
amplifier bandwidth
width of the frequency spectrum between the high and low cut-off frequencies
NOTE This standard uses as limits the points at which the gain is 3 dB below the peak value.
3.3
cross-talk during transmission
amount of energy transfer from the transmitter output to the receiver input during the transmission pulse, with
the ultrasonic instrument set for dual-element probe (separate transmitter and receiver)
3.4
calibrated dB-switch
device controlling the overall gain of the ultrasonic instrument calibrated in decibels
3.5
dead time after transmitter pulse
time interval following the start of the transmitter pulse during which the amplifier is unable to respond to
incoming signals, when using the pulse echo method, because of saturation by the transmitter pulse
3.6
digitisation sampling error
error introduced into the displayed amplitude of an input signal by the periodic nature of measurements taken
by an analogue-to-digital converter
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BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
3.7
dynamic range
ratio of the amplitude of the largest signal to the smallest signal which an ultrasonic instrument can display
3.8
equivalent input noise
measure of the electronic noise level observed on the ultrasonic instrument screen, and defined by the input
signal level, measured at the receiver input terminals, that would give the same level on the screen if the
amplifier itself were noiseless
3.9
external attenuator
standard attenuator calibrated to a traceable source used to test the ultrasonic instrument
3.10
fall time of proportional output
time it takes the proportional gate output to fall from 90 % to 10 % of its peak value
3.11
frequency response of proportional gate output
measure of how the amplitude of the proportional gate output varies with input signal frequency
3.12
hold time of switched outputs
time for which the switched output from a monitor gate will remain above 50 % of its maximum output
following a signal in the monitor gate which is above the threshold
3.13
hold time of proportional output
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time for which the proportional output is above 90 % of its peak output following a signal in the monitor gate
3.14
linearity of proportional output
measure of how close the voltage output from the proportional gate is to being directly proportional to the input
signal amplitude
3.15
linearity of time base
measure of how close the horizontal graticule reading on the ultrasonic instrument screen is to being directly
proportional to the time-of-flight of an echo
3.16
linearity of vertical display
measure of how close the vertical graticule reading of a signal on the ultrasonic instrument screen is to being
directly proportional to the input signal amplitude
3.17
mid gain position
ultrasonic instrument gain setting which is half way between the maximum and minimum gains, measured in
decibels
EXAMPLE For an ultrasonic instrument with a maximum gain of 100 dB and a minimum gain of 0 dB, the mid gain
position would be 50 dB.
3.18
monitor gate
section of the time-base on the A-scan display in which the amplitude is compared to a threshold and/or
converted to an analogue output

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3.19
monitor threshold
minimum signal amplitude that will operate the monitor gate output
3.20
noise of proportional output
measure of the noise on the proportional output
3.21
proportional output
output from the ultrasonic instrument which gives a d.c. voltage nominally proportional to the amplitude of the
largest received signal within a monitor gate
3.22
pulse duration
time interval during which the modulus of the amplitude of a pulse is 10 % or more of its peak amplitude
3.23
pulse repetition frequency
frequency at which the transmission pulse is triggered
3.24
pulse rise time
time taken for the amplitude of the leading edge of a pulse to rise from 10 % to 90 % of its peak value
3.25
pulse reverberation
secondary maximum in the transmitter pulse waveform after the intended output
3.26
receiver input impedance
characterisation of the internal impedance of the receiver as a parallel resistance and capacitance
3.27
response time of digital ultrasonic instruments
time over which a signal has to be detected by a digital ultrasonic instrument before it is displayed at 90 % of
its peak amplitude
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3.28
rise time of proportional output
time interval that it takes the proportional gate output to rise from 10 % to 90 % of its peak value
3.29
temporal resolution
minimum time interval over which two pulses are resolved by a drop in amplitude of 6 dB
3.30
time-dependent gain
TDG
time-dependent or swept-gain function fitted to some ultrasonic instruments to correct for the distance-related
reduction in reflected amplitude
3.31
short pulse
unrectified pulse which has fewer than 1,5 cycles in the time interval over which the pulse amplitude exceeds
half its maximum peak amplitude
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
3.32
suppression
preferential rejection of signals near the baseline of the screen, deliberately introduced to remove grass and
noise or to steepen the trailing edges of larger echoes
3.33
switching hysteresis
difference in amplitude between the signal which turns on and turns off a monitor gate
4 Symbols
Table 1 Symbols
Symbol Unit Meaning
A o, A n dB Attenuator settings used during tests

Cmax pF Parallel capacity of receiver at maximum gain
Cmin pF Parallel capacity of receiver at minimum gain
DS dB Cross-talk damping during transmission
f g Hz Frequency bandwidth measured at proportional gate output
fgo Hz Centre frequency measured at proportional gate output
fgu Hz Upper frequency limit at - 3 dB, measured at proportional gate output
fgl Hz Lower frequency limit at - 3 dB, measured at proportional gate output
fgmax Hz Frequency with the maximum amplitude in the frequency spectrum
measured at proportional gate output
fo Hz Centre frequency
fu Hz Upper frequency limit at - 3 dB
fl Hz Lower frequency limit at - 3 dB
fmax Hz Frequency with the maximum amplitude in the frequency spectrum
f Hz Frequency bandwidth
Imax A Amplitude of the maximum current that can be driven by the proportional
gate output
N Number of measurements taken
nin Noise per root bandwidth for receiver input
V/ Hz
Rl Termination resistor
Rmax Input resistance of receiver at maximum gain
Rmin Input resistance of receiver at minimum gain
S dB Attenuator setting
T s Time increment
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Table 1 (continued)
Symbol Unit Meaning

td s Pulse duration
Tfinal s Time to the end of distance amplitude curve
To s Time to the start of distance amplitude curve
tr s Transmitter pulse rise time from an amplitude of 10 % to 90 % of peak
amplitude
tA1, tA2 s Temporal resolution
VE V Input voltage at the receiver
Vein V Receiver input equivalent noise
Vin V Input voltage
Vl V Proportional gate output voltage with load resistor
Vmax V Maximum input voltage of the receiver
Vmin V Minimum input voltage of the receiver
Vo V Proportional gate output voltage with no load resistor
Vr V Voltage amplitude of the ringing after the transmitter pulse
V50 V Voltage amplitude of the transmitter pulse with a 50 loading of the
transmitter
V75 V Voltage amplitude of the transmitter pulse with a 75 loading of the
transmitter
Zo Output impedance of transmitter
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ZA Output impedance of proportional output
5 General requirements for compliance

An ultrasonic instrument complies with this standard if it satisfies all of the following conditions:
a) the ultrasonic instrument shall comply with Clause 7;
b) either a declaration of conformity, issued by a manufacturer operating a certified quality management

system, or issued by an organization operating an accredited test laboratory shall be available;
NOTE 1 It is recommended that the certification is carried out in accordance with EN ISO 9001, or that the
accreditation is carried out in accordance with EN ISO/IEC 17025.
c) the ultrasonic instrument shall be clearly marked to identify the manufacturer, type and series, and carry a
unique serial number marked on both the chassis and the case;
d) a user's instruction manual for the particular type and series of the ultrasonic instrument shall be
available;
e) a manufacturer's technical specification for the appropriate type and series of ultrasonic instrument which
defines the performance criteria in accordance with Clause 6 shall be available.
NOTE 2 This specification can form part of the ultrasonic instrument instruction manual or can be separate from it, but
it will state the type and series of the ultrasonic instrument to which it applies. The manufacturer's technical specification
does not in itself constitute the certificate of measured values required in b).
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
6 Manufacturer's technical specification for ultrasonic instruments
6.1 General
The manufacturer's technical specification for an ultrasonic instrument shall contain, as a minimum, the
information listed in 6.2 to 6.5. The actual values quoted for the parameters listed in this clause shall be the
results obtained from the tests described in Clause 7, with tolerances given as indicated.
6.2 General attributes
The following shall be detailed:
a) size;
b) weight (at an operational stage);
c) type(s) of power supply;
d) type(s) of instrument sockets;
e) battery operational time (as new, at maximum power consumption);
f) temperature and voltage (mains and/or battery) ranges, in which operation complies with the technical
specification. If a warm-up period is necessary, the duration of this shall be stated;
g) form of indication given when a low battery voltage takes the ultrasonic instrument performance outside of
specification;
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h) absolute change in amplitude and time base position of a nominally constant signal over the battery
voltage range during its normal discharge and recharge cycle;
i) pulse repetition frequencies (PRFs) (switched positions and/or variable ranges);
j) unrectified (i.e. radio frequency, RF) and/or rectified signal output available via socket.
6.3 Display
a) dimensions of display graticule area;
b) number of major and minor subdivisions in vertical and horizontal instrument;
c) range of sound velocities and delay ranges;
d) linearity.

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
6.4 Transmitter
a) shape of transmitter pulse (i.e. square wave, uni-directional or bi-directional) and, where applicable,
polarity;
b) at each pulse energy setting and pulse repetition frequency, with the output loaded with a 50
non-reactive resistor:
1) transmitter pulse voltage (peak-to-peak);
2) pulse rise time;
3) pulse duration (for square wave the range over which the pulse duration can be set);
4) effective output impedance (with tolerance);
5) pulse fall time (for square wave only);
6) pulse reverberation amplitude;
7) frequency spectrum plot.
6.5 Receiver and attenuator
a) characteristics of calibrated attenuator (sometimes called "gain control"), i.e. dB range, step-size,
accuracy;
b) characteristics of any uncalibrated variable gain, i.e. decibel range;
c) vertical linearity measured with respect to the screen graticule;
d) centre frequency and bandwidth (between - 3 dB points) of each band setting (give tolerances). The
effect (if any) of the attenuator setting;
e) dead time after transmitter pulse, including the effects of pulse energy, damping, attenuator/gain control
and frequency band setting;
f) input equivalent noise (microvolts (V)) at all frequency settings;
g) minimum input voltage for 10 % screen height over all specified frequency ranges;
h) dynamic range of the ultrasonic instrument over all the specified frequency ranges;
i) receiver input impedance of the ultrasonic instrument over all the specified frequency ranges;
j) details of any distance amplitude correction (DAC) function including the dynamic range, the maximum
correction slope (in decibels per microsecond (dB/s)), the form of the correction and the influence of any
DAC controls.
For instruments with logarithmic amplifiers, see Annex A.

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6.6 Monitor output
a) go/no-go;
b) proportional;
c) output response time;
d) linearity;
e) accuracy of the threshold;
f) hysteresis;
g) hold time;
h) maximum current drive capability.
If applicable, additional information on monitor output should be given.
6.7 Additional information
If applicable in addition to the information given above in 6.1 to 6.6 details should be supplied on the principles
of:
a) analogue-to-digital conversion;
b) number of pixels used to display the A-scan;
c) data output and storage facilities;
d) printer output;
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e) calibration storage facilities;
f) display and recall facilities;
g) automatic calibration;
h) type of display (e.g. cathode ray tube, liquid crystal display) and its response time.
Where applicable, these details should also include sampling rates used, effect of pulse repetition frequency
or display range on the sampling rate and response time. In addition, the principles of any algorithm used to
process data for display should be described and the version of any software installed shall be quoted.
7 Performance requirements for ultrasonic instruments

The ultrasonic instrument shall be subjected to all the tests described below. The test results shall meet or
exceed the stated requirement in every case. The results shall be recorded and stored for verification.
a) Group 1: tests to be performed at manufacture on a representative sample of the ultrasonic instruments

produced;
b) Group 2: tests to be performed on every ultrasonic instrument:
1) by the manufacturer, or his agent, prior to the supply of the ultrasonic instrument (zero point test);

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
2) by the manufacturer, the owner, or a laboratory, at twelve months intervals to verify the performance
of the ultrasonic instrument during its lifetime;
3) following the repair of the ultrasonic instrument.
By agreement between the parties involved these tests may be supplemented with additional tests from
group 1.
A third group of tests for the complete system (ultrasonic instrument and probe combined) are given in
EN 12668-3. During their lifetime these are performed at regular intervals on site. Table 2 summarises the
tests performed on ultrasonic instruments.
For ultrasonic instruments marketed before the introduction of this standard, continuing fitness for purpose
shall be demonstrated by performing the group 2 (periodic) tests every twelve months.
Following repair, all parameters which may have been influenced by the repair shall be checked using the
appropriate group 1 or group 2 tests.
Table 2 List of tests for ultrasonic instruments
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EN 12668-1 EN 12668-3
Title of test Manufacturer's tests Periodic and repair
tests
Subclause Subclause Subclause
Physical state and external aspects 9.2 9.2 3.4.2

Stability
Stability against temperature 8.2
Stability after warm up time 9.3.2 9.3.2
Display jitter 9.3.3 9.3.3
Stability against voltage variation 8.3 9.3.4
Transmitter pulse
Pulse repetition frequency 8.4.2
Effective output impedance 8.4.3
Transmitter pulse frequency spectrum 8.4.4
Transmitter voltage, rise time, 9.4.2 9.4.2
reverberation and duration
Receiver
Cross talk damping from transmitter to 8.5.2
receiver during transmission
Dead time after transmitter pulse 8.5.3
Dynamic range 8.5.4
Receiver input impedance 8.5.5
Time-dependant gain 8.5.6
Temporal resolution 8.5.7
Amplifier frequency response 9.5.2 9.5.2
Equivalent input noise 9.5.3 9.5.3
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Table 2 (continued)
EN 12668-1 EN 12668-3
Title of test Manufacturer's tests Periodic and repair

tests
Subclause Subclause Subclause
Sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio 3.4.3

Accuracy of calibrated attenuator 9.5.4 9.5.4 3.2.2
Linearity of vertical display 9.5.5 9.5.5 3.2.2
Linearity of equipment gain 3.2.2
Linearity of time-base 9.6 9.6 3.2.1
Monitor gate
Response threshold and switching 8.6.2
hysteresis with a fixed monitor threshold
Hold time of switched output 8.6.3
Proportional output
Impedance of proportional output 8.7.1
Linearity of proportional output 8.7.2
Frequency response of proportional gate 8.7.3
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output

Noise on proportional gate output 8.7.4
Influence of the measurement signal 8.7.5
position within the gate
Effect of pulse shape on the proportional 8.7.6
gate output
Rise, fall and hold time of proportional 8.7.7
gate output
Additional tests for digital ultrasonic instruments
Linearity of time-base for digital 8.8.2 8.8.2 3.2.1
ultrasonic instruments
Digitisation sampling error 8.8.3
Response time of digital ultrasonic 8.8.4
instruments
8 Group 1 tests
8.1 Equipment required for group 1 tests
The items of equipment essential to perform group 1 tests on ultrasonic instruments are as follows:
a) either:
1) oscilloscope with a minimum bandwidth of 100 MHz and a spectrum analyser with a 40 MHz
bandwidth at least; or

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
2) digital oscilloscope with a minimum bandwidth of 100 MHz and the capability to calculate Fast
Fourier Transforms;
b) 50 and 75 1 % non-reactive resistors;
c) standard 50 attenuator with 1 dB steps and a total range of 100 dB. The attenuator shall have a
cumulative error of less than 0,3 dB in any 10 dB span for signals with a frequency up to 15 MHz;
d) either:
1) an arbitrary waveform generator; or
2) two signal generators, with external triggers or gates, capable of producing two gated bursts of
sinusoidal radio frequency signals. The amplitudes of the two signals shall be independently variable
by up to 20 dB;
If two signal generators are used then suitable matching circuits will have to be used to combine the output of
the two generators into one test signal.
e) a protection circuit. An example is shown in Figure 2;
f) digital counter timer capable of generating an overflow pulse after 1 000 trigger pulses and measuring the
interval between two pulses with an accuracy of 0,01 %;
g) impedance analyser;
h) environmental test chamber;
i)
j)

variable d.c. power supply suitable to replace any battery used in the ultrasonic instrument;
variable transformer to control mains voltage.
All the tests in group 1 use electronic means of generating the required signals. The characteristics of the
equipment employed and its stability shall be adequate for the purpose of the tests.
NOTE Before connecting the oscilloscope and/or spectrum analyser to the transmitter of the ultrasonic instrument, as
required for some of the tests in this standard, check that it will not be damaged by the high transmitter voltage.
8.2 Stability against temperature
8.2.1 Procedure
Switch the instrument to separate transmitter/receiver mode. Connect the transmitter output to the first beam
of a dual beam oscilloscope and the trigger input of a signal generator (see Figure 1). Connect signal
generator gated output to instrument receiver input and also to the second beam of oscilloscope.
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Key
1 ultrasonic instrument 9 gated RF signal generator
2 protection circuit (see Figure 2) 10 external trigger input
3 input 11 RF Output
4 output 12 transmitter output
5 variable attenuator 13 receiver input
6 100 MHz oscilloscope 14 transmitter pulse
7 input channel A 15 test signal
8 input channel B
Figure 1 Set up for measuring stability against temperature
Set the instrument range to 50 mm for a velocity of 5 920 m/s, full rectification. Set the oscilloscope beam 1 to
view the instrument transmitter pulse. Set signal generator to generate a burst of three cycles at 2 MHz to
6 MHz with a delay of 10 s. Set burst amplitude to 1 V peak-to-peak. Adjust oscilloscope beam 2 to view the
burst. Now adjust instrument gain control to set the viewed signal to 80 % FSH.
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The ultrasonic instrument is placed into a climatic chamber (relative humidity between 40 % and 60 %) and
subjected to varying ambient temperatures. The signal height and position on the instrument screen shall be
read off and recorded at a maximum of 10 C intervals over the temperature range specified by the
manufacturer.

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
8.2.2 Acceptance criterion
For each 10 C change in temperature the amplitude of the reference signal shall not change by more than
5 % and the position shall not change by more than 1 %.
8.3 Stability against voltage variation
8.3.1 Procedure
Instruments which only use line power shall be connected to the variable transformer to control the power
voltage. Instruments which use a battery as a primary source of power shall be powered from a regulated d.c.
power supply in place of the battery.
Tests of variation of
a) line power over the manufacturers recommended range; and
b) variation of battery voltage over the range of voltages which the battery will supply during a full charge
and discharge cycle
shall be performed.
In the case of an instrument which can be powered and operated whilst the battery is charging then the test
for variation of line voltage to the charger shall also be performed.
If an automatic cut-off system or warning device is fitted, decrease the mains and/or battery voltage and note the
signal amplitude at which the cut-off system or warning device operates.

Switch the instrument to separate transmitter/receiver mode. Connect the transmitter output to the first beam of a
dual beam oscilloscope and the trigger input of a RF signal generator (see Figure 1). Connect signal generator
gated output to instrument receiver input and also a second beam of oscilloscope.
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Set the instrument range to 50 mm for a velocity of 5 920 m/s, full rectification. Set the oscilloscope beam 1 to
view the instrument transmitter pulse. Set signal generator to generate a burst of three cycles at 2 MHz to 6 MHz
with a delay of 10 s. Set burst amplitude to 1 V peak-to-peak. Adjust oscilloscope beam 2 to view the burst. Now
adjust instrument gain control to set the viewed signal to 80 % FSH.
Observe the consistency of amplitude and position on the time base of the reference signal over the ranges
defined in the technical specification.
The amplitude of the reference signal shall not change by more than 5 % and the position shall not change
by more than 1 %. Operation of automatic cut-off or warning light (if fitted) shall occur before the reference
signal amplitude varies by more than 2 % of the full screen height or the range changes by more than 1 %
of the full screen width from the initial setting.
8.4 Transmitter pulse parameters
8.4.1 General
This clause contains tests for pulse repetition frequency, output impedance and frequency spectrum. Test
methods and acceptance criteria for transmitter pulse shape and amplitude are given in 9.4.
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
8.4.2 Pulse repetition frequency
8.4.2.1 Procedure
Switch the ultrasonic instrument to dual-element probe (separate transmitter and receiver) and connect an
oscilloscope to the transmitter terminal.
NOTE Check that the oscilloscope input will not be damaged by the high transmitter voltage.
Measure the pulse repetition frequency, using the oscilloscope, at each setting which gives a different pulse
repetition frequency. Where more than one combination of controls results in the same pulse repetition
frequency (usually the range and pulse repetition frequency) then the pulse repetition frequency only needs to
be measured with one of the combinations. For ultrasonic instruments with a continuously adjustable pulse
repetition frequency control a setting shall be chosen as given in the manufacturer's technical specification.
8.4.2.2 Acceptance criterion
At each setting, the measured value of the pulse repetition frequency shall be within 5 % of that given in the
technical specification.
8.4.3 Effective output impedance
8.4.3.1 Procedure
Using the methods in 9.4.2, measure the transmitter pulse voltage V50 with the transmitter terminated by a
50 non-reactive resistor. Replace the 50 resistor with a 75 resistor and measure, using the

oscilloscope, the transmitter pulse voltage V75 with the transmitter terminated by a 75 resistor. The
measurement shall be made for each pulse energy setting and transmitter pulse frequency, at maximum and
minimum pulse repetition frequencies, with both maximum and minimum damping.
For each pulse setting calculate the effective output impedance Zo by means of the following equation:
(V75 V50 )
Z o = 50 75 (1)
(75V50 50V75 )
NOTE Voltages V50 and V75 are the values of the maximum excursions of the respective pulses from the baseline.
The effective output impedance shall be within 5 % of the value in the technical specification and not greater
than 50 .
8.4.4 Transmitter pulse frequency spectrum
8.4.4.1 Procedure
Measure the frequency spectrum of the transmitter pulse using either a spectrum analyser or an oscilloscope
capable of performing Fast Fourier Transforms. The spectrum shall be plotted for at least the 30 dB limits of
the frequency response. The pulse settings and the window parameters shall be recorded. The window shall
be twice the pulse duration and centred about the pulse.
The frequency spectrum shall be within the tolerances quoted in the technical specification.
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8.5 Receiver
8.5.1 General
This subclause gives tests to measure the transmitter/receiver crosstalk damping, receiver sensitivity, dead
time due to transmitter pulse, dynamic range, input impedance, distance amplitude correction and temporal
resolution. The methods and acceptance criteria for amplifier bandwidth, equivalent input noise, accuracy of
calibrated attenuator, vertical display linearity are given in 9.5.
8.5.2 Cross-talk from transmitter to receiver during transmission
8.5.2.1 Procedure
The pulser and receiver are terminated with 50 and the equipment set for dual-element probe (separate
transmitter and receiver). The peak-to-peak voltages at the pulser output V50 (measured in 9.4.2) and the
receiver input VE are measured with an oscilloscope as shown in Figure 3. The logarithm of the ratio of both
voltages is specified as the cross-talk during transmission Ds (given in decibels (dB)).
V50
Ds = 20 log10 ( ) (2)
VE
The cross talk during transmission (Ds) shall be more than 80 dB.
8.5.3 Dead time after transmitter pulse
8.5.3.1 Procedure

Calibrate the ultrasonic instrument screen width from 0 s to 5 s at full scale. Then adjust the zero offset so
that the leading edge of the transmitter pulse coincides with the zero screen division.
Connect the circuit shown in Figure 4, with the ultrasonic instrument in single transducer probe mode
(connected transmitter and receiver).
NOTE The circuit shown in Figure 2 is used to protect the signal generator from the transmitter spike.
Select each probe frequency setting of the ultrasonic instrument in turn and adjust the signal generator output
to be mid-band of the probe frequency setting, adjust signal generator output level to provide maximum level
signal on screen as shown in Figure 5. Adjust the amplitude with instrument gain control to make signal half
screen height at the maximum range of the screen.
Express the dead time as the time in microseconds (s) from the zero point to the point on the time base
where the amplitude is 25 % screen height (i.e. 50 % of its amplitude at the end of the screen).
For the worst case frequency band setting, the dead time after the transmitter pulse shall be less than 1 s.
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BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
8.5.4 Dynamic range
8.5.4.1 Procedure
The dynamic range is checked using the test equipment in Figure 6 at the centre frequency fo of each
frequency band as measured in 9.5.2. The test signal of ten cycles that shall be generated by this equipment
is shown in Figure 7. Set the ultrasonic instrument attenuator/gain controls (calibrated and uncalibrated) to
minimum gain. Increase the amplitude of the input signal until the signal is displayed at 100 % full screen
height or there is no discernible linear change in signal amplitude for an increase in input signal. Measure
(taking due account of the standard attenuator setting) the input voltage amplitude Vmax.
Set the ultrasonic instrument gain controls (calibrated and uncalibrated) to maximum gain.
If the noise level at the gain setting is higher than 5 % of the screen height, then decrease the gain until the
noise level is 5 % of the screen height.
Adjust the amplitude of the input signal so that it is displayed at 10 % screen height. Measure (taking due
account of the standard attenuator setting) the input voltage amplitude Vmin.
The usable dynamic range is given by:
V
20 log10 max dB (3)
Vmin
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except where Vmin is less than the input equivalent noise Vein when the dynamic range is limited to:
V
20 log10 max
dB (4)
Vein
8.5.4.2 Acceptance criteria
The usable dynamic range shall be at least 100 dB and the minimum input voltage Vmin shall be within the
tolerance quoted in the manufacturer's technical specification.
8.5.5 Receiver input impedance
8.5.5.1 Procedure
Real and imaginary parts of the receiver input impedance are determined with an impedance analyser with the
ultrasonic instrument set for both dual-element probe mode (separate transmitter and receiver) and single
transducer probe mode (combined transmitter and receiver). The transmitter pulse should be disabled while
measuring the input impedance in single transducer probe mode without disconnecting the receiver from the
transmitter. These measurements are to be carried out at a signal frequency of 4 MHz, at the minimum (Rmin,
Cmin) and maximum (Rmax, Cmax) gain setting. A damping control, if fitted, should be set to minimum during the
test.
In general, the input impedance can be sufficiently established by an input resistance and a parallel
capacitance.
At 4 MHz the real part of impedance Rmax at maximum gain shall be greater than or equal to 50 and less
than or equal to 1 k. The parallel capacity Cmax shall be less than or equal to 150 pF. The real components of
the input impedance at maximum gain Rmax and at minimum gain Rmin shall meet the following condition:

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Rmax Rmin
0,1 (5)
Rmax
and the capacitive components of the input impedance at minimum gain Cmin and at maximum gain Cmax shall
meet the following condition:
Cmax Cmin
0,15 (6)
Cmax
8.5.6 Time-dependent gain (TDG)
8.5.6.1 Procedure
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The performance of the TDG or DAC correction is verified by comparing the theoretical DAC curve requested
by the operator with the actual curve generated by the ultrasonic instrument. The theoretical curve is
calculated from the information supplied by the manufacturer on the operation of the DAC controls. This is
compared with the actual curve, which is measured by the change in the amplitude of a test pulse, at a
number of positions on the horizontal time-base over which the DAC is active. The DAC curve selected for this
test shall contain the steepest correction slope possible with the ultrasonic instrument.
With the ultrasonic instrument set for dual-element probe mode (separate transmitter and receiver), connect
the test equipment as shown in Figure 6. Adjust the gain of the ultrasonic instrument to maximise the dynamic
range of the DAC. Throughout this test, avoid saturating the pre-amplifier preceding the DAC circuit.
Enable the DAC selected for the test. With the test signal at a position on the horizontal time-base just before
the start of the DAC curve, adjust the external standard attenuator so that the amplitude of the test signal is
80 % of screen height and call the standard attenuator setting Ao.
Increase the delay of the test signal to move the test signal along the time-base by T where:
Tfinal T0
T = (7)
N
where
T0 is the time to the start of the DAC curve;
Tfinal is the time to the end of the DAC curve;
N is the number of measurements to be taken; N shall be greater than or equal to eleven.
Adjust the standard attenuator to bring the test signal to 80 % of screen height, and record the attenuator
setting An. Increase the range of the test signal by increasing the time delay a further T and again record the
attenuator setting to bring the test signal to 80 % of screen height. Continue increasing the time delay and
adjusting the standard attenuator until N measurements have been made.
After the last measurement, test the DAC for saturation by increasing the external calibrated attenuation by
6 dB and ensuring that the signal is between 38 % to 42 % of screen height. If the signal is not within these
limits reduce the range by T and repeat the saturation test. The dynamic range of the DAC is measured at
the point where saturation no longer occurs.
Plot out the actual DAC curve and the theoretical curve.
Repeat the measurement with the centre frequency for each filter setting and for maximum, medium and
minimum DAC gain settings.
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
The difference between the theoretical DAC curve requested by the operator and the actual DAC correction
shall not exceed 1,5 dB.
8.5.7 Temporal resolution
8.5.7.1 Procedure
The widest band setting of the equipment is selected. Set the equipment in Figure 6 to generate two single
cycle measurement pulses with centre frequency fo measured in 9.5.2 for the frequency band chosen. These
pulses should follow each other at a distance so that they do not influence each other. The indications are
adjusted to 80 % screen height. The equipment should be arranged so that the amplitude of the two pulses
can be varied independently over a 20 dB range.
Measure the temporal resolution, t A1, and temporal resolution, t A2, after an interface echo using the methods
below:
a) measurement of the temporal resolution tA1
Decrease the distance between the two measurement pulses until the dip between them is 6 dB. In doing this,
both pulses shall not change by more than 10 % of screen height. The distance from the start edge of the first
measurement pulse, to the start of the second measurement pulse (measured at the pulse generator) is the
temporal resolution tA1;
b) measurement of the temporal resolution after an interface echo tA2
Increase the amplitude of the first measurement pulse by 20 dB, while maintaining the amplitude of the
second pulse as 80 % of screen height. Decrease the distance between the two measurement pulses until the
dip between both of them is 6 dB (relative to the smaller signal). In doing this, the indication of the smaller
measurement pulse shall not change by more than 10 % screen height. The distance from the start of the first
measurement pulse to the start of the second measurement pulse (measured at the pulse generator) is the
temporal resolution tA2.
The measurement shall be within the tolerances quoted in the manufacturer's technical specification.
8.6 Monitor gate
8.6.1 General
This subclause describes tests for any monitor gates with switching outputs. Tests for a proportional monitor
gate output are given in 8.7.
The monitor output is wired according to the manufacturer's technical specification and a diagram of this
circuit should be made. Statistical interference suppression shall be switched off if not specified by the
manufacturer.
All the monitor gate tests use the equipment set-up shown in Figure 8. In this set-up, the trigger for the test
signal is derived from a transmitter pulse using a fixed attenuator, a counter timer and a pulse generator. As
shown in Figure 9 the counter timer enables this set-up to generate a test signal for one transmitter pulse
followed by a large number (at least 1 000) of transmitter pulses for which no test signal is generated.
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8.6.2 Response threshold and switching hysteresis with a fixed monitor threshold
8.6.2.1 Procedure
Adjust the sound path range to 100 mm in steel. For all frequency bands on the instrument adjust the signal
generator to produce a single cycle sine wave at the centre frequency, fo. Add a time delay equivalent to
approximately 50 % of the sound path range. Turn on a gate and adjust its length to be from 40 % to 60 % of
sound path range. Set the gate level to be 40 % full screen height if the gate level is adjustable.
Adjust the amplitude of the test signal until the gate alarm turns on. Note this amplitude, AG,on. Adjust the test
signal amplitude until the gate alarm turns off. Note this amplitude, AG,off. The difference in the amplitudes to
turn the gate on and off is the switching hysteresis and its mean value is the threshold level.
For monitor gates with fixed thresholds the amplitudes that turn the monitor signal on and off shall be within
2 % of screen height of the value in the manufacturer's specification. The switching hysteresis of the
threshold shall be less than 2 % of screen height.
8.6.3 Hold time of the switched output
8.6.3.1 Procedure
The amplitude of the trigger signal is adjusted so that the switching output is on. Then the trigger of the
measurement signal is changed so that a transmission pulse with trigger signal is followed by approximately
one thousand pulses without a trigger signal, as shown in Figure 9.
The time interval between end of the test signal and the time when the switched output turns off, measured at
its 50 % level, is the hold time. If outputs are available with different hold times, measurements shall be
carried out for all outputs.

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The hold time of the switching output shall be within 20 % of that specified in the manufacturer's technical
specification.
8.7 Monitor gates with proportional output
8.7.1 Impedance of proportional output
8.7.1.1 Procedure
Select the setting at which the gain controls are in the middle of their range, and the widest band setting of the
equipment.
Adjust the trigger of the measurement signal so that a measurement signal, with the carrier frequency fo
measured in 9.5.2, is produced with every transmitted pulse.
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Set the amplitude of the measurement signal to produce an indication at 80 % of screen height and measure
the output voltage Vo. Terminate the proportional output with a resistor of value Rl which satisfies the following
condition:
V
0,75 I max o 0,85 I max (8)
Rl
where
Imax is the maximum current that can be driven by the proportional output.
Record the altered output voltage Vl. The (resistive part of the) output impedance is calculated using
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V
Z A = o 1 Rl (9)
Vl
The measured output impedance shall be within the tolerance quoted in the manufacturer's technical
specification.
8.7.2 Linearity of proportional output
8.7.2.1 Procedure
Select the setting at which the gain controls are in the middle of their range, and the widest band setting of the
equipment, adjust the triggering of the measurement signal so that a measurement signal is generated with
each transmitted pulse. Adjust the amplitude of the measurement signal to give an indication at 80 % of
screen height, and measure the voltage at the proportional output, calling this the reference voltage. The
output voltage for full screen height (FSH) is 1,25 times the reference voltage.
The amplitude of the measurement signal is changed in steps according to Table 3.
The deviation of the output voltage from the nominal value is recorded.
Table 3 Expected output voltage for specified attenuator settings
Attenuation Nominal Value

dB % of FSH output voltage
+1 90
0 80
-2 64
-4 50
-6 40
-8 32
- 10 25
- 12 20
- 14 16
- 16 13
-18 10

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
The measurement shall be within the tolerance quoted in the manufacturer's technical specification.
8.7.3 Frequency response of proportional gate output
8.7.3.1 Procedure
This test measures the response of the proportional output to the frequency of the receiver input signal. The
measurement set-up in Figure 8 is used whereby a measurement signal is generated with every transmitted
pulse.
Set the calibrated gain control to the mid position and the non-calibrated control to maximum gain. The
frequency fgmax for maximum output is found by varying the carrier frequency of the measurement signal until
the FSH voltage is obtained at the analogue output. Once fgmax has been found, adjust the amplitude of the
measurement signal so that the output voltage is 80 % of the FSH voltage found in 8.7.2. After this, the carrier
frequency of the measurement signal is reduced and increased until the output voltage drops by 3 dB.
The values fgu, fgl are measured. Using fgu and fgl, the centre frequency fgo is calculated according to:
f go = f gu f gl (10)
and the frequency bandwidth f is calculated according to:
f g = f gu f gl (11)
8.7.4 Noise on proportional gate output
8.7.4.1 Procedure
Terminate the receiver input with 50 . Set all gain controls to the maximum value and use the widest band
on the equipment. The output voltage shall not exceed 40 % of the FSH output. Otherwise, the gain is to be
reduced so that 40 % of the FSH output voltage is not exceeded. The gain setting is to be recorded.
8.7.5 Influence of the measurement signal position within the gate
8.7.5.1 Procedure
Use the set-up shown in Figure 8 to generate a measurement signal for each transmitter pulse. Select a mid
gain position and the widest band setting on the equipment. Adjust the amplitude of the measurement signal,
of the centre frequency fo, to produce an indication at 80 % of screen height. Position the measurement signal
in the first fifth, centre and in the last fifth of the gate and measure the voltages of the analogue output.
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
8.7.6 Effect of pulse shape on the proportional gate output
8.7.6.1 Procedure
Pulse transfer is characterized by the response of the amplifier to different measurement signals.
Use set-up in Figure 8 to produce a measurement signal with each transmitter pulse. Select mid gain and the
widest band setting on the ultrasonic instrument. Set the carrier frequency of measurement signal to fo, as
measured in 9.5.2 for the selected filter. Adjust the amplitude measurement signal so that the voltage at the
output of the proportional gate is 80 % of the FSH output voltage.
Using the test signals given below, note the external attenuator setting required to bring the output voltage to
80 % of the FSH output voltage:
a) single sine wave with a negative leading edge;
b) single sine wave with a positive leading edge;
c) measurement signal with five periods, similar to Figure 7;
d) measurement signal with fifteen periods, similar to Figure 7.
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8.7.7 Rise, fall and hold time of proportional gate output
8.7.7.1 Procedure
Using the measurement set-up in Figure 8, adjust the measurement signal trigger so that each transmitter
pulse generates a measurement signal. Also use a mid gain setting and the widest band setting of the
equipment and a measurement signal with a carrier frequency fo, as measured in 9.5.2. Adjust the
measurement signal so that 80 % of the FSH output voltage is obtained at the proportional gate output.
Change the trigger of the measurement signal so that at the analogue output, the minimal output voltage can
be observed between two consecutive output signals (e.g. for one transmitter pulse with a measurement
signal there follows approximately one thousand transmitter pulses without a measurement signal). The rise
time is the time interval in which the output voltage rises from 8 % to 72 % (see Figure 9) of the FSH output
voltage (this being equivalent to 10 % and 90 % of the output signal generated by the measurement signal).
The fall time is the time interval in which the output voltage falls from 72 % to 8 % of the FSH output voltage
(see Figure 9). The hold time is the time interval in which the output voltage is above 72 % of the FSH output
voltage following the end of the test signal (see Figure 9).

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
8.8 Digital ultrasonic instruments
8.8.1 General
With some adaptation the other tests in this standard can be applied to digital ultrasonic instruments.
However, for a digital ultrasonic instrument these tests are incomplete. Additional parameters, which are not
applicable to analogue ultrasonic instruments, affect the performance of a digital ultrasonic instrument. These
parameters are introduced by the digitisation of the A-scan and the algorithm used to produce the A-scan
display. This is a new area for NDT instrumentation and conventions are still developing. However, this
subclause gives guidance on three tests which may be appropriate for some digital ultrasonic instruments.
These tests are not exhaustive and, depending on the design of the digital ultrasonic instrument, further
testing may be required to ensure suitability for an application.
8.8.2 Linearity of time-base for digital ultrasonic instruments
8.8.2.1 Procedure
This test compares the time base linearity of the ultrasonic instrument screen with that of a calibrated counter
timer.
Connect the equipment as shown in Figure 6. Set the pulse generator to produce a single cycle sine wave
with a frequency at the centre frequency fo of an appropriate filter. Set the time base to minimum, maximum
and mid-range position in turn. At each setting adjust the trigger delay, the ultrasonic instrument's
gain/attenuator control and the external calibrated attenuator to obtain a signal which is at least 80 % of
screen height at the centre of the time base.
Vary the trigger delay in increments of not more than 5 % of the screen width and record each delay (as
measured on the counter/timer) and the corresponding location of the leading edge of the indication on the
ultrasonic instrument screen. Plot the location on the ultrasonic instrument screen against the delay measured
by the counter/timer. Draw or calculate a best fit curve to the measured values and calculate the error for each
measurement.
The time base non-linearity shall not exceed 0,5 % of the screen width.
8.8.3 Digitisation sampling error
8.8.3.1 Procedure
This test verifies that a signal, having the highest frequency within the ultrasonic instrument bandwidth, is
correctly displayed on the screen, and particularly that its amplitude is independent of its range.
The test should be done with each filter, on rectified and RF mode, if available, and with DAC disabled. The
test should also be repeated with each setting that influences the digitisation, for example time-base and pulse
repetition frequency.
Set the ultrasonic instrument for dual-element probe mode (separate transmitter and receiver) and using the
set up shown in Figure 6 generate a test pulse synchronised to the transmitter pulse. Set the delay T of the
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signal to To, longer than the receiver dead time. Set the frequency of the signal generator to fu, as determined
in 9.5.2, using the filter with the maximum bandwidth including fu. Adjust the signal generator to produce a
single period sinusoid with an amplitude of 80 % of screen height.
Using the variable time delay, increase T by a small increment
1
T = (12)
10 f u
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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
At each increment of T, measure the amplitude of the signal on the screen. Continue increasing the time
delay and measuring the amplitude until 30 measurements have been made (i.e. three wavelengths).
The signal shall not vary by more than 5 % of full screen height from the largest to the smallest amplitude
recorded.
8.8.4 Response time of digital ultrasonic instruments
8.8.4.1 Procedure
The displays of most digital ultrasonic instruments have a limited refresh rate, and this may not match the
ultrasonic pulse repetition frequency. Hence transient echoes which are only detected for a short period of
time may not be displayed on the screen at their full amplitude. The purpose of this test is to measure the time
for which a transient echo has to be detected before it is displayed, at 90 % of its full amplitude, on the screen
of the digital ultrasonic instrument.
Use the same set up as the previous tests (8.8.3) to produce a single cycle sinusoidal test pulse with a
frequency at the higher 3 dB point for the filter as measured in 9.5.2. Adjust the ultrasonic instrument gain to
the middle of its dynamic range and the amplitude of the test pulse to 80 % of screen height. Set the signal
generator to produce a single shot pulse, after which the signal generator will require rearming before the next
pulse is generated. After arming the test signal, an indication should appear on the ultrasonic instrument
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screen at 80 % of FHS.
If no echo appears or the amplitude is not between 75 % and 85 % of screen height, set the function
generator to multi-shot mode and increase the number of shots, by increasing the width of the gate used to
enable the signal generator, until the signal is between 76 % and 85 % of screen height.
Measure the response time of the ultrasonic instrument by measuring the time from the start of the transmitter
pulse triggering the test signal gate to the start of the transmitter pulse following the end of the test signal
gate, as shown in Figure 10.
Repeat this test for each setting which influences the response time of the ultrasonic instrument, such as
range or pulse repetition frequency setting.
The response time shall be within the tolerance quoted by the manufacturer.
9 Group 2 tests
9.1 Equipment required for group 2 tests
The items of equipment essential to assess ultrasonic instruments in accordance with the tests in group 2 of
this standard are as follows:
a) oscilloscope with a minimum bandwidth of 100 MHz;
b) 50 1 % non-reactive resistor;
c) standard 50 attenuator with 1 dB steps and a total range of 100 dB. The attenuator shall have a
cumulative error of less than 0,3 dB in any 10 dB span for signals with a frequency up to 15 MHz;
d) two signal generators with an external trigger or gate capable of producing a gated burst of sinusoidal
radio frequency signals of variable amplitude in the range suitable for the equipment being tested;

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EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
e) variable DC power supply suitable to replace any battery used in the ultrasonic instrument;
f) variable transformer to control mains voltage.
All the tests in the standard, except for those of stability, use electronic means of generating the required
signals. The characteristics of the equipment employed and its stability shall be adequate for the purpose of
the tests.
9.2 Physical state and external aspects
Visually inspect the outside of the ultrasonic instrument for physical damage which may influence its current
operation or future reliability.
9.3 Stability
9.3.1 General
The following subclauses describe tests for measuring the stability of the ultrasonic instrument against time,
line and battery voltage.
9.3.2 Stability after warm-up time
9.3.2.1 Procedure
Adjust the sound path range to 100 mm in steel. In mid-frequency range of the instrument adjust the signal
generator to produce a single cycle sine wave. Add a time delay equivalent to approximately 50 % of the
sound path range. Set the amplitude of the signal to be 80 % full screen height.
Observe the amplitude and the position of the signal on the time base at 10 min intervals over a period of
30 min.
Carry out the test in an environment whose temperature is maintained within 5 C of the range specified in
the manufacturer's technical specification of the ultrasonic instrument. Ensure that the mains or battery
voltage is within the ranges required by the manufacturer's specification.
During a 30 min period following an allowance for warm-up, in accordance with the manufacturer's
specification:
a) the signal amplitude shall not vary by more than 2 % of full screen height;
b) the maximum acceptable shift along the time base shall be less than 1 % of full screen width.
9.3.3 Display jitter
9.3.3.1 Procedure
Set up a reference signal as described above and observe variations in amplitude and/or range having
frequencies greater than approximately 1 Hz. Avoid high gain settings where amplifier noise may prevent
measurement.
The signal amplitude shall not vary by more than 2 % of full screen height.
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BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
The position of the signal shall not vary by more than 1 % of full screen width.
9.3.4 Stability against voltage variations
9.3.4.1 Procedure
Set up a reference signal as described in 9.3.2, powering the ultrasonic instrument from a regulated supply at
the centre of the working range specified for the ultrasonic instrument.
Observe the consistency of amplitude and position on the time base of the reference signal over the ranges
defined in the manufacturer's technical specification, for the following:
a) variation of line voltage (adjust by mains transformer) ; and/or

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b) variation of battery voltage (using a variable voltage d.c. power supply in place of a standard battery
pack).
If an automatic cut-off system or warning device is fitted, decrease the mains and/or battery voltage and note
the signal amplitude at which the cut-off system or warning device operates.
The amplitude and position of the signal shall be stable within the limits specified in manufacturer's
specification.
Operation of automatic cut-off or warning light (if fitted) shall occur before the reference signal amplitude
varies by more than 2 % of the full screen height or the range changes by more than 1 % of the full screen
width from the initial setting.
9.4 Transmitter pulse parameters
9.4.1 General
This subclause contains tests for transmitter pulse shape and amplitude.
9.4.2 Transmitter voltage, rise time, reverberation and duration
9.4.2.1 Procedure
Switch the ultrasonic instrument to dual-element probe mode (separate transmitter and receiver) and connect
an oscilloscope to the transmitter terminal.
NOTE Before connecting the oscilloscope it should be checked that the input will not be damaged by the high
transmitter voltage.
Set the pulse repetition frequency to maximum and connect a 50 non-reactive resistor across the
transmitter output socket. Using the oscilloscope, measure the transmitter pulse voltage V50. Measure the
pulse rise time, duration and amplitude of any reverberation as shown in Figure 11.
Repeat the measurements at each pulse energy setting and/or transmitter pulse frequency setting and with
maximum and minimum damping.
Repeat the tests with the minimum pulse repetition frequency that gives a clearly defined trace on the
oscilloscope screen.

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At maximum and minimum pulse repetition frequency and on each pulse energy and/or transmitter pulse
frequency band:
a) transmitter pulse voltage (loaded, i.e. V50) shall be within 10 % of the manufacturer's specification;
b) pulse rise time tr shall be less than the maximum value quoted in the manufacturer's technical
specification;
c) pulse duration td shall be within 10 % of the value quoted in the manufacturer's technical specification;
d) any pulse reverberation Vr shall be less than 4 % of the peak-to-peak transmitter pulse voltage.
9.5 Receiver
9.5.1 General
This subclause gives tests to measure the amplifier bandwidth, equivalent input noise, and the accuracy of the
calibrated attenuator. The suppression control, if fitted, shall be switched off during these tests.
9.5.2 Amplifier frequency response
9.5.2.1 Procedure
Using the circuit shown in Figure 6 plug the input signal into the receiver terminal of the ultrasonic instrument
and switch to double probe operation. Set the instrument gain to medium. Adjust the input signal to the
ultrasonic instrument to be 1 V peak-to-peak and adjust the calibrated external attenuator to produce a
signal at 80 % screen height. Report the gain setting of the receiver.
Select each frequency band setting in turn. Vary the frequency of the input signal over the range 0,1 MHz to
25 MHz and note the frequency fmax for each band, giving the maximum signal amplitude displayed on the
ultrasonic instrument screen, and the height of this level. In doing this, ensure that the amplifier is not
overloaded, and also that the input amplitude, as displayed on the oscilloscope, is kept constant. Decrease
the calibrated external attenuator by 3 dB to increase the displayed signal height.
In turn, increase and decrease the frequency from fmax, in small increments which are less than 5 % of the
nominal bandwidth and observe the upper fu and lower fl frequencies (3 dB points) at which the displayed
height on the ultrasonic instrument screen returns to its original value. Again make sure that the input signal to
the calibrated external attenuator is constant.
The centre frequency fo (for each band setting in the case of selectable values) as given by:
fo = fu fl (13)
shall be within 5 % of the value stated in the technical specification or marked on the control. The bandwidth
f (between - 3 dB points) as given by:
f = f u f l (14)
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shall be within 10 % of the bandwidth specified in the technical specification.
30
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
9.5.3 Equivalent input noise
9.5.3.1 Procedure
Select dual-element probe and use the circuit shown in Figure 6. Carry out the measurements of equivalent
input noise as follows for each frequency range, using a signal at the centre frequency fo of each band.
Set the ultrasonic instrument to maximum gain on all controls, including the variable gain. Disconnect the input
signal and note the noise level on the ultrasonic instrument screen.
Reduce the gain by 40 dB and reconnect the input signal. Adjust the calibrated external attenuator and/or the
input signal level until the drifting RF pulses appear at the same level as the previous noise level. Measure the
input signal Vin in volts (V) peak-to-peak from the oscilloscope, and the attenuation of the calibrated external
attenuator (S dB). The equivalent input noise, Vein (in volts (V)), is:
Vin
Vein = (15)
S + 40

10 20
and the noise per root bandwidth is given by:
Vein
nin =
fu fl
(16)
where
fu and fl are the 3 dB points measured in 9.5.2.

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For each frequency band setting nin shall satisfy the following condition:
nin < 80 10 9 V / Hz (17)
9.5.4 Accuracy of calibrated attenuator
9.5.4.1 Procedure
Compare the calibrated attenuator of the ultrasonic instrument with a matched external calibrated attenuator
using a reference signal as follows.
Continue using the set up in Figure 6 and make the comparison at the centre frequency (fo) measured in 9.5.2
for each filter setting. For instruments with logarithmic amplifiers, see Annex A.
Adjust the calibrated attenuator of the ultrasonic instrument to mid position and set the reference signal from
the signal generator to show a signal at 80 % of screen height with the external calibrated attenuator set
10 dB higher than the ultrasonic instrument gain.
Check the ultrasonic instrument attenuator control by reducing the attenuation of the ultrasonic instrument in
appropriate increments and adjusting the external calibrated attenuator to maintain the signal at constant
height. Check the gain in three stages. First check the gain at its smallest increment over a 1 dB range if
possible. Secondly, check the fine gain over its whole range at its smallest increments, but not less than 1 dB
increments. Finally check the coarse gain over its whole range, at each of its increments. Note deviations
between the two attenuators greater than those specified in the acceptance standard. These indicate errors in
the ultrasonic instrument attenuator.

31
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
The following shall apply at each frequency setting chosen:
a) the cumulative error in the fine gain attenuator(s) shall not exceed 1 dB in any successive 20 dB span,
or the full range, whichever is the smaller;
b) the cumulative error in the coarse gain attenuator(s) shall not exceed 2 dB in any successive 60 dB
span, or the full range, whichever is the smaller.
9.5.5 Linearity of vertical display
9.5.5.1 Procedure
Test the ultrasonic instrument screen linearity by altering the amplitude of a reference input using an external
calibrated attenuator and observing the change in the signal height on the ultrasonic instrument screen.
Report the gain setting at the beginning of the test.
Check the linearity at prescribed intervals from 0 dB to - 26 dB of full screen height.
Repeat the test for centre frequencies fo of each filter as measured in 9.5.2.
Using the same set-up shown in Figure 6 set the external calibrated attenuator to 2 dB and adjust the input
signal and the gain of the ultrasonic instrument so the signal is 80 % of full screen height.
Without changing the gain of the ultrasonic instrument switch the external calibrated attenuator to the values
given in the Table 4. For each setting measure the amplitude of the signal on the ultrasonic instrument screen.
Table 4 Acceptance levels for vertical display linearity
External attenuator setting Target amplitude on screen Acceptable amplitude

dB % screen height % screen height
1 90 88 to 92
2 80 (Reference line)
4 64 62 to 66
6 50 48 to 52
8 40 38 to 42
12 25 23 to 27
14 20 18 to 22
20 10 8 to 12
26 5 3 to 7
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At each frequency setting, the amplitude measured shall be within the tolerances given in Table 4.
9.6 Linearity of time-base
9.6.1 Procedure
This test measures the linearity of the ultrasonic instrument time-base by comparing the graticules with the
positions of the eleven regularly spaced bursts of sine waves generated by a signal generator.
32
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Using the set-up shown in Figure 6, generate a test signal with eleven regularly spaced bursts of sine waves
as shown in Figure 12. Select an appropriate frequency band and set the carrier frequency of the test signals
to the centre frequency measured in 9.5.2. With the ultrasonic instrument set to mid gain, adjust the external
calibrated attenuator and the amplitude of the signal generator output, until the test pulses, displayed on the
ultrasonic instrument, are at 80 % of screen height. Adjust the timing of the pulses so that the leading edge of
the third pulse is at 20 % of the horizontal scale, and the leading edge of the ninth pulse is at 80 % of the full
horizontal screen width.
Record the deviations of the leading edges of the nine remaining pulses which are outside the tolerances
given in the acceptance criteria.
Repeat the measurements for all positions of the stepped horizontal calibration control, with the continuous
calibration control in the mid position. Also repeat the measurement for both end positions of any continuous
horizontal calibration control, with the stepped calibration control at a mid position.
The deviation of the reference signals from the ideal positions shall not be greater than 1 % of the full screen
width.
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Key
1 from signal generator
2 to ultrasonic instrument
3 silicon switching diode
R1, R2, R3 resistors
Figure 2 Circuit to protect equipment from the transmitter pulse

33
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
1 ultrasonic instrument 6 input channel A
2 transmitter output 7 input channel B
3 transmitter input 8 oscilloscope Probes
4 termination pad 9 external Trigger Input
5 100 MHz oscilloscope
Figure 3 Equipment set-up used to measure cross-talk damping
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34
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
1 ultrasonic instrument 8 100 MHz oscilloscope
2 protection circuit (see Figure 2) 9 input channel A
3 input 10 external trigger input
4 output 11 X10 scope probe (100 MHz)
5 fixed attenuator 12 transmitter output
6 RF signal generator 13 receiver input
7 RF output
Figure 4 Equipment set-up used to measure dead time after the transmitter pulse
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

35
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Key
1 dead time
2 non-synchronised rectified sinewave
3 screen height
Figure 5 Waveform used to measure dead time after the transmitter pulse as seen on the instrument
screen during the test
36
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Key
1 ultrasonic instrument 9 pulse generator/counter
2 fixed attenuator 10 100 MHz oscilloscope
3 input 11 input channel A
4 output 12 external trigger output
5 variable RF attenuator 13 X10 scope probe (100 MHz)
6 termination pad a 14 transmitter output
7 gated RF signal generator 15 receiver input
8 RF-output
a Termination pad only required to match impedance of flaw detector to test instruments.
Figure 6 General purpose set-up for equipment

37
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
V voltage
t time
Figure 7 Test waveform generated by general purpose equipment set-up
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
38
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
1 ultrasonic instrument 9 pulse generator/counter
2 fixed attenuator 10 10 MHz oscilloscope
3 input 11 input channel A
4 output 12 external trigger input
5 variable RF attenuator 13 X10 scope probe (100 MHz)
6 termination pad a 14 transmitter output
7 gated RF signal generator 15 receiver input
8 RF-output
a Termination pad only required to match impedance of flaw detector to test instruments.
Figure 8 Set-up of equipment for tests on monitor gate
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

39
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
1 screen width 7 proportional gate output
2 transmitter pulses 8 hold time
3 test enabling signal 9 rise time
4 test signal 10 hold time
5 monitor gate 11 fall time
6 switched monitor gate signal
Figure 9 Timing diagram of signals used to test monitor gate
40
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
1 screen width
2 transmitter pulses
3 test enabling signals
4 test signal
5 test signals gate
6 response time
Figure 10 Timing diagram showing how to measure the response time of digital flaw detectors
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

41
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
a) Square
b) Spike
c) Tuned pulse
Key
tr pulse rise time Vr reverberation voltage
td pulse duration V50 transmitter pulse voltage
Figure 11 Transmitter pulse parameters to be measured
42
BS EN 12668-1:2010
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Key
1 transmitter pulse
2 test signal
V voltage
t time
Figure 12 Signals used to test time base linearity
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

43
EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Annex A
(normative)
Special conditions for ultrasonic instruments with logarithmic amplifiers
A.1 Introduction
Certain ultrasonic instruments are designed with a logarithmic amplifier instead of a linear amplifier.
An ultrasonic instrument based upon a logarithmic amplifier can be characterized as follows:
a) the amplitude on the display (and on a monitor output, if any) is linear in a decibel scale rather than in a
percentage scale;
b) gain control is replaced (fully or partly) by range and offset controls for the vertical display scale.
A.2 Basic requirements
A.2.1 Measuring accuracy
In order to meet this standard an ultrasonic instrument with a logarithmic amplifier shall meet the same
requirements as regards overall measuring accuracy, i.e. from input to display, as stated in 9.5.4, i.e.:
the cumulative measuring error shall not exceed 1 dB in any 20 dB span and 2 dB in any 60 dB span.
A.2.2 Vertical display "linearity"
Since the vertical display by nature is non-linear 9.5.5 shall be replaced by the following requirement:
vertical display errors shall not exceed 1 dB in any 20 dB span and 2 dB in any 60 dB span.
A.3 Tests
The test set-up in Figure 6 shall be used. Verification of compliance with the above requirements shall be
performed by means of tables showing measured decibel outputs versus set decibel inputs.
44
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

EN 12668-1:2010 (E)
Bibliography
[1] EN 12223, Non-destructive testing Ultrasonic examination Specification for calibration block
No. 1
[2] EN ISO 10012, Measurement management systems Requirements for measurement processes
and measuring equipment (ISO 10012:2003)
[3] EN ISO 9001, Quality management systems Requirements (ISO 9001:2008)
[4] EN ISO/IEC 17025, General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories
(ISO/IEC 17025:2005)
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

45
BS EN
12668-1:2010
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NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 12668-1:2010. It

This British Standard Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

ISBN 978 0 580 58073 4

Copyright British Standards Institution

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 12668-1

ICS 19.100 Supersedes EN 12668-1:2000

Non-destructive testing - Characterization and verification of

Essais non destructifs - Caractrisation et vrification de Zerstrungsfreie Prfung - Charakterisierung und

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 25 December 2009.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

Copyright British Standards Institution

Provided by IHS under license with BSI - Uncontrolled Copy

This document supersedes EN 12668-1:2000.

EN 12668, Non-destructive testing Characterization and verification of ultrasonic examination equipment,

Part 3: Combined equipment

Copyright British Standards Institution

EN 1330-4:2010, Non-destructive testing Terminology Part 4: Terms used in ultrasonic testing

EN 12668-3, Non-destructive testing Characterization and verification of ultrasonic examination

3 Terms and definitions

Provided by IHS under license with BSI - Uncontrolled Copy

Copyright British Standards Institution

Symbol Unit Meaning

A o, A n dB Attenuator settings used during tests

Copyright British Standards Institution

Symbol Unit Meaning

5 General requirements for compliance

a) the ultrasonic instrument shall comply with Clause 7;

b) either a declaration of conformity, issued by a manufacturer operating a certified quality management

6 Manufacturer's technical specification for ultrasonic instruments

6.2 General attributes

The following shall be detailed:

b) weight (at an operational stage);

c) type(s) of power supply;

d) type(s) of instrument sockets;

e) battery operational time (as new, at maximum power consumption);

i) pulse repetition frequencies (PRFs) (switched positions and/or variable ranges);

The following shall be detailed:

a) dimensions of display graticule area;

b) number of major and minor subdivisions in vertical and horizontal instrument;

c) range of sound velocities and delay ranges;

Copyright British Standards Institution

The following shall be detailed:

1) transmitter pulse voltage (peak-to-peak);

2) pulse rise time;

4) effective output impedance (with tolerance);

5) pulse fall time (for square wave only);

6) pulse reverberation amplitude;

7) frequency spectrum plot.

6.5 Receiver and attenuator

The following shall be detailed:

b) characteristics of any uncalibrated variable gain, i.e. decibel range;

c) vertical linearity measured with respect to the screen graticule;

f) input equivalent noise (microvolts (V)) at all frequency settings;

For instruments with logarithmic amplifiers, see Annex A.

6.6 Monitor output

c) output response time;