table of contents - horiba...la-920 software manual installing la-920 software the following section...

LA-920 Software Manual

Introduction The operation and data manipulation of the LA-920 analyzer is performed using Windows 95® based software. The communications between the analyzer and the Windows 95® based Personal Computer (PC) is performed using an RS-232 serial link. As a Windows 95® software package the LA-920 program utilizes the advantages of the graphical user interface, in order to provide an instrument that is easy to use. Users familiar with windows based software will also benefit from a shorter leaning curve as the software has a consistent user interface as other Windows 95® based software. Most components of the LA-920 software can be customized by the customer. These include screen layout, items displayed, font used, etc. As such the illustrations in the manual are based on the settings as shipped and may not be identical to your layout. The software also has built-in security and when security is activated all the menu items and buttons described in this manual may not be available based on the permissions assigned to the user.

About this Manual This manual explains each of the functions available in the software. These functions either control the analyzer or handle data processed functions such as saving and retrieving information and data manipulation. This manual is written for a user who is familiar with computers and has knowledge of the various terminology used, such as pull-down menus, dialog boxes etc. It is also assumed that the user is familiar with Windows 95 operating system and with standard functions such as saving and retrieving data in applications and performing file operations such as copying files. If the user is not familiar with these items please refer to the documentation provided with Windows 95 software or consult a book specifically written for this purpose.

Computer Requirements In order to run the LA-920 software an PC running Windows 95 operating system is required. The following specifications are the minimum configuration required. 1. 386, 486 or a Pentium® based computer or compatible computer. 2. 16mb of memory. 3. 1.44mb, 3.5” diskette drive. 3. Hard disk drive with sufficient capacity to hold operating system, program files and data. 4. Super VGA monitor. (minimum resolution 800 x600) 5. Video card or built-in video on computer capable of 800 x 600 resolution or better. 6. Mouse or similar pointing device. 7. Printer. (Color graphics printer is recommended) 8. Windows 95® operating system. (Must be installed on the computer prior to installation of the

LA-920 software.)


Installing LA-920 Software The following section will guide you through the installation process for the LA-920 software. 1. Insert the first LA-920 installation disk in drive. 2. Access the Start menu by either pressing the Start Button located on the Task Bar, or by

pressing the Windows key (if available) on your keyboard. 3. Select the Run menu which will display a dialog box as shown below.

Figure 1

4. Type A:\Setup.exe in to the dialog box as shown and press the OK button. (If the letter

designation for your diskette drive is not A: substitute the correct letter in place of A:) 5. The installation program will then load itself and will present you with various installation

choices. In most cases select the default settings presented by pressing the Next key unless you have a significant reason to change them. As changing the default values may make providing technical assistance difficult we suggest that avoid doing so.

6. Once the installation selections are made the installation software will copy all necessary files

to your computer. The software will request you to insert the various disks provided. Do not be alarmed if all disks provided are not be installed.

7. Once the installation is completed the LA-920 the Program Group in your Start Menu will

contain a LA-920WET selection with the following entries:

A. LA-920 - The main program that runs the analyzer and provides data manupulation. B. LA-920 Uninstall - The program to uninstall LA-920 software. You would not

generally use this program as this would remove the software from the computer. C. System Administration. - This software is used to set-up security and some selected

customization options.

Starting the Program From the Start menu select Programs, then select the LA-920WET program folder and finally select LA-920 icon to start the software. Once the program has started, the main window will be displayed, and if security is activated the program will request you to enter your username and password. The username and password entered must be one that was setup for the system by the system administrator. (Refer to the section on system administration)


Distribution Display Window The DISTRIBUTION DISPLAY WINDOW consist of many sub windows. The number of windows displayed, their size and location can be customized by operator to meet their preferences. The following sub windows (also referred as child windows) are available:

Figure 2. Display Window with all available windows opened.

1. Tool Bar The Tool Bar provides access to various functions. It provides access to the same functions that are available from the pull-down menu, thus providing a short-cut to the function. Users have the ability to customize the icons shown by adding or removing items as necessary through the System Administration program. When the Database system is activated the Tool Bar also contains additional controls to display database status and to navigate through the records. Refer to the Database section for a detailed description of Tool Bar controls that relate to Database activities.

2. Control Buttons These buttons provide operational control of the analyzer, to control items

such as the circulation system and ultra-sonics. These button can displayed in a fixed window (as show in figure 1) and also in a floating window that can be dragged around the main display window.


3. Result Graph The Result Graph window contains the distribution plot of the most recent

measurement result or of the last file opened. This graph may also contain overlays of selected memory data. (Refer to section on Memory Operations for details on overlaying memory)

4. Data Table The Data Table window provide a tabular view of the current data which is

either the last measurement results or the last file opened.

5. Result Data The Result Data window displays the conditions associated with the current data. Items displayed on this window can be selected by the user. (Refer to “Display Item Settings” section for details on customizing the window)

6. Calculated Data The Calculated Data window displays the statistical values calculated from

the current data set. Items displayed on this window can also be selected by the user. (Refer to “Display Item Settings” section for details on customizing the window)

7. Memory Graphs The Memory Graphs display plots of the memory data. Each memory graph

can be assigned any of the available memory data sets using the up/down arrow buttons. This data can also be overlaid on the Result Graph by clicking on graph window. Memory graph windows with white backgrounds indicate that data is overlaid while blue backgrounds indicate that overlay is not activated.

Pull-down Menus The LA-920 software uses pull-down menus to provide access to various windows and dialog boxes. In the following sections we will describe each one of the pull-down menus and the menu items. Note that all the menus and the associated items described may not be available to all users. This may be due to the current security level assigned not permitting access or the menu item may not be applicable in the current configuration.

File The FILE menu contains items associated with files operations such as opening and saving data, printing operations and the standard method to exit the program.

Figure 3. File Pull-down menu


Open Sample The Open Sample menu will display an Database Open Dialog Box (If the

Database is active) or a Standard Open Dialog Box.

figure 4. Standard Open Dialog Box

Standard Open Box From a standard Open Dialog box to open a sample file select the desired file and press the “Open” button. (You can also change folders and drives using the “Look in” Drop-down List box)

Figure 5. Database Open Dialog Box


Database Open Box The Database Open Dialog Box consist of a table, listing all the sample files

that were saved in the system. This listing maintains an entry for sample regardless of the drive and directory location it was saved. The listing can be sorted rapidly using one of the preset sorts such as filename, or samplename in order to assist the operator in locating and retrieving a file. (These preset sort orders are known as indexes). Once a file is located it must be selected by clicking the mouse on the appropriate row and then by pressing the OK button. In addition to the preset sort orders the “Database Open Dialog Box” has incorporated two powerful search and sort functions. In the next section we will describe the various buttons available in the Database Open Dialog Box but before proceeding we would like point out two information fields that are displayed. The first is labeled “Total Database” and as the name indicates the value shown is the total number of samples contained in the database. The next item is labeled “Current Group” and the value shown indicates the number of samples that were selected. When the database is accessed using one of the preset sort orders the value of the Current Group is the same as the Total Database, but if a lookup or a user defined sort is performed this value will reflect the number of samples that met the requested criteria and are currently listed.

Figure 6. Lookup Dialog Box

Lookup Button The Lookup button provides access to the lookup dialog box which permits the user to lookup for a specific piece of information from the preset sort orders. To perform a lookup, type the required information into the lookup edit box, select the appropriate field button and then press the OK button. If there are sample files that meet the lookup criteria, the file list will now contain those entries. Remember that lookups match data starting with the left most character. For example if the database contains a filename such as “A100 LOT5”, and if you type “A” or “A100” the “A100 LOT5” record will be listed, but if you type “LOT” the lookup will not find this file.

Lookup is the fastest method to select and retrieve files, and we recommend

that you use this method especially if your database contains a large number of samples.


Figure 7. Select Database Records Dialog Box. Create Index Button The Create Index Button displays the “Select Database Records” Dialog Box,

which facilitates searching and sorting of the database. The database can be searched based on one or more fields. To match a field enter the search criteria in the appropriate field. When more than one field is used in the search, you can specify if all fields should match to meet the search criteria or if any field matching is sufficient. To make this selection select either “Match All Fields” or “Match Any Field” radio button. If the selected data should be within specific dates enter the “From” and “To” fields for the date range and also remember to mark the “Check Date” box. The selected data can sorted in many different sort orders. Sort order is assigned by selecting the radio button in front of the field name. Once all the search conditions are entered press the OK button to perform the search and if the database has sample data that meets the criteria they will be listed.


Figure 8. Delete Options Dialog Box. Delete Button The Delete Button is used to delete sample data. In order to delete one or

more files they must be selected in the file list. Once the files are selected press the delete button to display the “Delete Options” dialog box. The “Delete Options” dialog box contains two selection. If “Delete Database Entry Only” is selection, the software will only remove the database entry and will retain the actual data file on disk. If you select “Delete Disk File and Database Entry”, the delete operation will not only erase the file from the database but will also remove the sample data file.

Direct Access Files This button permits the user to open a sample on disk directly without

selecting it from the database. This is generally used in situations where the database does not contain the required entries, in cases such as when a floppy disk with data is received from another unit.

OK Button If the OK button is clicked with a sample selected, the selected sample will

be opened and the status on the Tool Bar will be updated accordingly. The database navigation buttons (First, Last Next and Previous) on Tool Bar will also be enable permitting the user to navigate through the database using the active sort order. If no sample was selected when the OK button is pressed the current group of selected samples will be active but no sample will be opened and the navigation button will be disabled as the current group may not be related to the active data.


Save Sample Save Dialog Box The “Save Sample” menu displays a standard save dialog box. Using this

save dialog box, users can save the sample data on any available drive including removable drives such as floppy disks. The LA-920 program maintains the last save location (path/folder information) and uses that as the default location on subsequent sample save/open operations. If a sample is saved on a removable disk such as a floppy disk and the database is active, the program will check the disk for a unique disk identification number and if one is not located an ID number will be created on disk. This information will then be entered in the database and will be used to identify the proper disk that contains the sample data.

Figure 9. Standard Save Dialog Box

To save a sample using the standard save dialog box enter a filename and press the “Save” button . Windows 95 accepts filenames as long as 255 characters (With the database active the limit is 254 characters) but we suggest that you limit the filenames to 30 characters or less as filenames listed on the screen and in print-outs may not be able to display extra long filenames even through the software will maintain them and handle them correctly. Note that when re-saving a sample the file name will be automatically filled with the current name.


Accessing Conditions Open Conditions The “Open Conditions” menu displays a standard file open dialog box that

permits the user to opens a set of test conditions previously saved. If a condition file is selected and opened, the display conditions of the current measurement results window will be updated with the conditions loaded and the data will be recalculated. When a conditions file is opened, measurement conditions will also be loaded but these settings will only apply to the next measurement.

Save Conditions The “Save Conditions” displays a standard save dialog box used for saving

conditions files. If the user types a valid filename and clicks the “Save” button the program will save the current conditions which include the measurement conditions and the display conditions to the designated file. These can then be retrieved when necessary by using “Open Conditions” from the menu.

3D Files

The “3D Files” menu permits the user to save the list of files used to generate a 3D and then the ability to retrieve them when necessary. Note that a 3D file does not save any measurement or result data, it only stores the filenames used in generating the graph. As such the original sample data files used must be retained if the 3d file is to be recreated at a later date.

3D file operations are controlled through a combination file management dialog box. To open a file select the file from the list and press the “Open” button. Likewise to save a file type a filename and press the “Save” button. There is also a “Title” button which provides access to additional file functions such as entering comments, deletion and copy operations.

Figure 10. File Management Dialog Box


Print Preview The PRINT PREVIEW menu item shows the current sample in a printable

format. Changes to data presentation on printout can be made here. Page MARGINS, ORIENTATION, LAYOUT can be all be changed prior to printing in this menu item.

Print Layout The PRINT LAYOUT menu item allows user to set up individual presentation

of the data. Using a drag and drop format, custom presentation can be created. User can choose to display title, measure conditions, display conditions, resultant graph, resultant data in any combination in any order on the page. Page MARGIN, ORIENTATION, PRINT PREVIEW are accessible from this menu item.

Figure 11. Layout Editor Window


Print The PRINT menu displays a dialog box from which the user can select a

layout and proceed to print a document. Users select a print layout from the drop down list box which has “Current Active Layout” selected as the default and a listing of all other layout filenames located on disk. The “Current Active Layout” is the last layout used. If you wish to edit any of these layouts or create a new layout prior to the print operation, select a layout and press the “Edit Layout” button, to switch over to the layout editor. (For a detailed description on editing layouts, refer to the section on using the layout editor)

Figure 12. Print Layout Selection Dialog Box

EXIT The EXIT menu item is used to quit the program. When you EXIT the

program all open windows are closed and the current settings including layout of windows will be saved on disk and the information will used next time you run the software.

DISPLAY The DISPLAY pull-down menu provides switching between the various

display environments available. This is necessary as only one display environment can be active at any given time.

Figure 13. Display Pull-down Menu Measurement The MEASUREMENT WINDOW menu item switches user into the real time

window of the analyzer. This window provides light intensity information and various other operational information that assist the user in performing accurate measurements. Note that this window only accessible if an analyzer was connected and operational at the time the LA-920 software was started.

Distribution The DISTRIBUTION WINDOW menu item switches the software to the data

presentation set of windows. Refer to the description of these windows in the introduction section.

3D Window The 3D WINDOW menu item presents sample data in a 3D graph format. In

this format the Z axis contain the individual samples with the x and y axis graphing the diameters and percentages respectively. Data for the 3D graph


is selected from the “3D Graph Information” menu item. This menu is located in the “Graph” menu.

GRAPH The GRAPH menu controls the data graphed and the associated graph settings. While most of these settings are controlled from dialog boxes some of them have direct control from the tool bar or by directly using mouse drag drop commands. ZOOM The ZOOM menu item allows zooming of a certain area of graph. Zooming is

performed with the use of the mouse. The steps necessary to perform zooming are listed below:

A. Select “Zoom” from the menu or press the Tool bar button. B. Move the mouse to the starting channel on the graph.

(A vertical line will be shown on the graph to indicating the position and the “Scale of Graph” window will show the numerical value of the current position.)

C. Once the starting point is established press the left mouse button down and while holding it drag the mouse highlighting the area of interest. (The numerical value of the highlighted area can be viewed on the “Scale of Graph” window)

D. Once the desired location is reached, release the mouse button. The

graph will then zoom the highlighted area.

Figure 14. Scale of Graph Window POINT The POINT menu item is used in conjunction with the mouse to obtain

particle size, density distribution, and accumulated distribution data from a particular point on the graph. To activate “Point” simply select point from the graph menu or press the icon on the tool bar. Once “Point” is active a pop-up window will appear with information on the current cursor position on the graph. The cursor is represented on the graph as a large vertical bar which can be moved using the mouse or by pressing the arrow button on the pop-up window. To cancel this window press the OK button or the close button on the window.


Figure 15. Cursor Position Pop-up Window

Display Area The DISPLAY AREA menu item allows the user to change the minimum and

maximum diameters displayed on the X-axis and the maximum density distribution value displayed on the Y-axis. To change these values type a new value and press the OK button to update the graph.

Figure 16. Graph Scale Pop-up Window FULL SCALE The FULL SCALE menu item displays the x and y axis to maximum values

automatically. The x-axis or the particle size is maximized to 2000 µm. The y-axis or the density distribution is maximized to 100 %.

AUTO SCALE The AUTO SCALE menu item scales the density distribution to the best fit

value.


GRAPH SETTING The GRAPH SETTING menu item has four tabs within it. These tabs gives various options for display of the graph of the resultant data. AXIS- “Measured Data Scale” sets the parameters for minimum and maximum

particle size and for maximum density distribution. These values may be chosen or set at “default”.

“Measured Screen Scale” has parameters for Light Intensity of Measure screen. The value for the Light Intensity must be set between 1 and 16380. Density Distribution of the measure screen. The value for the Density Distribution must be set between 1 and 100.

Figure 17. Graph Settings - Axis Tab


GRID Sets the parameters for the grid displayed on the resultant graph. “Display Grid” has options for both the x and y - axis. The x-axis can be

displayed with or without grid lines. The y-axis grid lines can be set to correspond to the density distribution or the cumulative distribution. A third option is of no grid line for the y-axis can also be selected.

“Grid Interval” changes shade and thickness of grid lines for the x and y grid

lines. The values may be set between 1 and 100 or default.

Figure 18 Graph Settings - Grid Tab MEMORY DISPLAY Sets the scale of the x-axis and y-axis to a fixed value or automatic values for

the memory display screen. The Particle Size can be fixed to a maximum value of 2000 and a minimum value of 0.02. The Density Distribution can be set to a maximum value of 100.


Graph Colors The GRAPH COLORS menu item changes line style and color for the

distribution window. The frame of graph, scene, grid, density graphs , and cumulative graphs color may be changed by clicking on “COLOR” box next to each selection. Type of grid, type of bar graph, type of line graph and thickness may be selected using the choices given in the drop-down box. To save changes, “OK” must be clicked before exiting. If “CANCEL” is selected, changes will not be displayed.

Figure 19. Graph Color and Line Style Selection Dialog Box


Overlay/Average The OVERLAY/AVERAGE menu item is used to compare up to 17 sets of

data at one time. To overlay or average data, a file must be opened into one of the memory locations. To do this, highlight any memory location and going to FILE and selecting desired file. DELETE is used to delete a given memory location. COPY is copy to display conditions, measurement conditions, or sample information to next measurement or another memory location. MOVE takes a file from one memory location to another selected location. EXCHANGE switches a file in one memory location for a file in another memory location. CHANGE changes sample and preparation information for a selected memory location. OVERLAY compares up to 17 files at one time. AVERAGE averages up to 17 files at one time. RETURN exits from memory operation menu.

Figure 20. Memory Overlay/Average Dialog Box


3D File Information The 3D FILE INFORMATION has settings for 3D files and 3D graph

information. A file can be converted to a 3D file using the “file” button. A file can be deleted using the “delete” button. All files can be deleted using the “clear” button. The “condition” button gives graphing selections such as graph style, axis information, graph and contour. END exits from the 3D FILE INFORMATION menu item.

Figure 21. 3D Graph File Selection Dialog Box


Conditions The CONDITIONS pull-down menu provides the operator with various options to control the measurement parameters and the display parameters of the samples. Meas. Condition The MEASURE CONDITION sets condition for measurement. It has a

“setting “and an auto function” tab. Measure conditions apply only to new measurements and as such these conditions can not be changed once a sample has been run.

Figure 22. Measure Conditions - Setting Tab

SETTING Circulation speed Circulation speed sets the pump speed from 1 to 15. The check box in front

of the speed setting should be checked to activate the Circulation pump. Sonication Internal sonication power and time is set using the ultrasonic time and

ultrasonic power. The ultrasonic time must be set between 1 and 30 seconds whether in use or not. To use the internal ultrasonics, the check box should be marked.

U-Sonics while Meas. If the “U-Sonic works during Meas” setting is set to “Yes”, internal sonication

is applied during measurement. Sampling times Sampling times is the number of scans each detector performs for that

analysis. Sampling times must be set between 1 and 100.


Preferable T% Preferable T% sets the minimum and maximum range for the selected range

of measurement No. of Accumulation No. of Accumulation Blanking is the number of scans each detector performs

during the blanking stage. This number must be set between 1 and 100. A defualt value of 10 for most dispersants is sufficient.

Feed/Rinse Control Feeding Rinse Control selections for source of rinse and number of rinses

desired during one rinse cycle.

Figure 23. Measure Conditions - Auto Functions Tab

The Auto Functions window displays the available automatic functions and provides a choice of setting them ON or OFF. The following Auto Functions are available in this dialog box.

A. Remarks before Measurement allows changes in Sample Information from the measurement screen prior to analysis

B. Automatic Printing prints each individual result immediately following analysis C. Automatic Saves each result using a nine digit ID number D. Auto Scale after Meas. scales the graph to a best fit setting


Display Conditions The DISPLAY CONDITION menu item contains settings for types of calculations performed after raw data is collected. These settings can be changed before or after the analysis has been completed. The form of distribution can be displayed in manual or standard form.

Figure 24. Display Conditions - Distribution Tab

R. Refractive Index Relative refractive index can be selected by clicking the R.R.Index button. A refractive index can be chosen from any directory by clicking FOLDER. A comment can be added to any refractive index by typing in the comment section and clicking SAVE. To change any refractive index for a given set of data, OPEN must be clicked after highlighting desired RRI.

Distribution Base The distribution base can be displayed in volume, area, length or number

mode. Graph Channels The density distribution graph can be displayed using a standard channel

settings or using custom channel settings. Custom channels can be created, based on diameters size or on cumulative percentages. To create a custom table first selected the type of custom setting and then, using the Setting button, channels of choice can be manually entered.

Axis Selection A linear or logarithmic scale may be set for x and y axis. The recommended

setting for Axis Selection is “LogX-LinY” ISO 9276-1 Format ISO 9276-1 Format can be turned on to implement ISO 9276-1 terminology

or turned off to use standard terminology.


Cumulative Data Cumulative distribution graph can be turned on or off. Size Class Size class refers to the type of cumulative distribution graph desired.

Retained translates to the cumulative percent oversize. Passing translates to the cumulative percent undersize.

Axis Type Axis type is the presentation of the density distribution graph. It can be

shown in bar or line graph style or not displayed at all.

Figure 25. Fixed Diameters, Percentages and Span Settings Tab. Fixed Diameters, Percentages and Span Settings Diameter on percent , percent on diameter, and span values can be entered to get statistical information on each set of data. Upto 10 values may be entered for diameter on percent and percent on diameter. Span Values One value each must be entered for the lower and upper value of the span. Mathematically, the span is calculated by dividing the difference between the diameter of the high and low value percent by the diameter at 50 %. The standard values for span are: high value of 90 and low value of 10.


SAMPLE INFORMATION The SAMPLE INFORMATION menu displays a dialog box with two tabs. The first tab contains sample information for the sample. This information may be entered either before or after measurement. The second tab contains preparation information. These fields can be used to store additional information regarding the sample and the field names can be changed to match the data that is stored. If you wish to change field names, Refer to the system administration section for detailed instructions.

Figure 26. Sample Information Tab


Group Processing Menu A new feature for the LA-920, these series of functions allow the user to process a group of *.d2w data files and report the results in a customized summary. The group operations are only valid when the LA-920 database is activated. and the functions will only operate on the files in the database that are selected. Please refer to section on “Open Sample” for more details on selecting files.

Figure 27. Group Processing Menu

Summary Report The Summary Report is a report which has been automatically generated by the software. The user must define all appropriate parameters that will determine the content and layout of the report. These parameters are accessible via the “Summary Setup” function.

A hard copy of the Summary Report can be obtained by selecting . To access the report using other software, the user may the information into a *.txt file.

Figure 28. Summary Report Window


Summary Setup This function is used to customize the “Summary Report.” The Summary

Setup dialogue is composed of two main windows. The “Item List” window contains all variables that can be incorporate into the “Summary Report.” To implement these variables, highlight the variable name, ie “Sample,” and select . Subsequently, the variable name will appear in the “Summary Item” window. The “Summary Report” will present data in column formats, with the first Column listing data from the first Variable in the “Summary Item” window. To customize the summary report, the user may manually declare specific variables and determine the appropriate placement of that variable on the Summary report by the relative location of the variable name in the “Summary Item.”

Note: For the following Items or Variable Names, a number must be declared in the “Text Length” Box (located between the two windows). Each unit will correspond to one character. This action will limit the width of the column for that “Item” to the specified value.

Sample Lot Number Dispersion Medium Material Test Number Dispersion Steps Source Preparation Verification

Figure 29. Select Summary Items Window

To remove individual Variable Names from the “Summary Item” window, high-light the variable name and select . All Variable Names can be removed by selecting .

The user also have the option of changing the format of the “Summary Report.” The “Font” window can be accessed by selecting . The Orientation of the “Summary Report” can also be changed by selecting either “Landscape” or “Portrait.”

By selecting “Include Summary Averages,” the software will automatically calculate and report an average for all numerical variables.

To apply the same Summary Setup to another group of files, save the summary setup as *.sly (Summary Layout) file. After selecting the next group of files, the same summary setup can be recalled by opening the appropriate *.sly (Summary Layout) file.


Sequence Menu The LA-920 software have a built-in capability to automate and simplify sample analysis by executing a “sequence” or series pre-defined of step. The user may choose to generate a sequence manually or create one using the “Sequence Wizard.” The sequence program can incorporate an autosampler to reduce operator intervention. After the sequence has been saved as a *.swz file, it can be used to automate the analysis of a variety of samples. Edit Seq. Program This program is an editor which allow the user to manually delete or add

( ) “steps” in the sequence.

Figure 30. Sequence Editor

• To delete or remove a command, high-light the appropriate line and press “del”.

• To add a step to the sequence, high-light the line where the new command is to be inserted. Choose a command from the right column, double click, fill out the appropriate attributes, and press .

Note: To replace a step with another, select from the tool bar or

toggle between and using the “Insert” key on the keyboard. • To undo, go to Edit Menu (alt+E) and select Undo( C). • The user may change the attributes of any command by double-clicking

on the line (or high-light the line and selected ) and proceed to changing the attributes.

• To run the sequence, select or “Run( C)” from the Run menu. • To return to the measure screen, select Return from the File menu. • For future application, save the sequence as an *.seq file by entering the

Sequence File Window from the File Menu. Similarly, an old existing sequence file can be opened using this procedure.


Figure 31. Standard Sequence File Manager Dialog Box

Run Seq. Program This function will activate the sequence program that is being stored in the

Edit Seq. Program, or the sequence program that has been generated by the Sequence Wizard.

Sequence Wizard This program allow the user to quickly generate a sequence that will incorporate the most common “steps” needed in normal analysis.

The sequence wizard will guide the user through seven dialog boxes which will document the necessary parameters and allow the user to choose the appropriate method for the analysis. For customers with the autosampler, the wizard will require more inputs.

Screen #1: “Wizard for Sequence.” This screen allows the user to create a new sequence or edit a previous one.

To edit an existing file, select “Edit” and click on to access the file manager. Open the appropriate file to be edited. Select “No” for Autosampler Table.

Screeen #2: “Repeat Measurements” This screen will determine the number of different samples that will be

analyzed. If the user wishes to retain the sample after the sequence, select “No” to “From Treatment to Drain.”

However, if there are more than one sample, select “Yes” to “From Treatment to Drain.” The sequence program will automatically drain the sample from the analyzer and request the operator for new sample when finished. Enter the number of sample to be ran under “Number of Repeats.” Note: This should only be implemented if the same method can be applied to all of the sample.

Screen #3: “Pre-treatment” This screen will set-up all the conditions during the measurement of each

sample. • Open Condition File: This should be checked “Yes” if the measure

condition is different from the current setting. A condition file can be opened using the button. The user may choose to retain any of


the current setting by deselecting “System,” “Display,” and/or “Measurement.”

• Feed Dispersant: This should be checked “Yes” if the sequence program should automatically feed dispersant. If Auto-Reservoir is not attached, “Manually Feed Sample” option must be checked.

• Circulation: This should be “On” to circulate the sample, but is not necessary for fraction cell or dry analysis. Deselect “Current” and enter new value if the circulation is to be different from current setting.

• Optical Axis Adjustment: The sequence program will automatically perform a coarse adjustment at the beginning of the sequence.

• Blanking: The sequence program will perform a blank prior to addition of sample.

• Use Autosampler: This function will incorporate the Autosampler. By selecting the appropriate position on the autosampler, the user can manipulate the order in which the samples are analyzed.

• Manually Feed Sample: The sequence program will request the operator to add sample.

• Ultrasonic: This setting will determine the magnitude and duration of ultra-sonics prior to measurement. Note: Time is in minutes.

• Waiting after Sonication: This will determine the waiting period after sonication. Note: Time is in minutes.

• Autoconcentration: The sequence program will attempt to dilute the sample to the appropriate Transmission, as indicated by operator.

Figure 32. Sequence Wizard Screen #3: “Pre-Treatment”


• Optical Axis Adjustment Pre-Measurement: This option will force the sequence program to perform a coarse adjustment prior to each measurement.

Screen #4: “Measurements” This screen will help manage the measurement data file generated after the

analysis. • Automatic Printing After Measurements: The data is immediately

printed after each measurement. • Open Print Lay-out File: This function allows the user to specify a Print

Lay-out that is different than the current setting. Click on to access the file manager and select the desire *.prn lay-out file.

• Automatic Save: The sequence program will automatically save each measurement file according to its ID number.

• Repeat Measurements: This function will take multiple measurements of the same sample.

Screen #5: “Drain and Rinse”

These parameters will set-up the Drain and Rinse conditions. • Drain All: The sequence program will perform a complete drain of the

system. • Rinse: The sequence program will perform a rinse before feeding new

dispersant.

Screen #6: “Wizard File for Sequence” • Table File Name: • Comment: • File name: Name of sequence. • Comment: Any applicable information about the sequence and its purpose/method


Data Base Menu The LA-920 Data Base program is a powerful tool for organizing and to catalog all measurement file. By scheduling frequent up-date to the DataBase, the operator will have direct access to all measurement files without leaving the system. The Data Base system will track the location of all catalogued files and access those directories without user intervention. To turn on the Data Base Option, please refer to System Administrator Section. Import This function allow the user to update the database. Although the database

continually add files following each measurement, it is sometimes necessary to add *.d2w files from external sources. Two work groups can catalog each others data, even if their working directories are different. This can be easily accomplished by selecting and direct the database to the appropriate directory using the “Folder Operations” window. Once the new files are displayed in the “Add Records to Data Base” window, select

to update the data base. If files are deleted or added to default directory, the Data Base should be updated using the same procedure.

Figure 33. Add Records to Data Base Dialogue Figure 34. Folder Operations Dialogue Reindex This function will reindex the Data Base. This is a utility function that is only

used when the database is not accessing the information correctly. Pack This function will remove deleted records from the database. As this function is automatically activated when records are deleted, the user does not need to perform this function. Backup Not implemented in the current software.


Export Menu Export Measurement files and/or specific data file in memory can be converted to

*.txt files. This function gives the user the versatility of being able to review the data in other software, such as MS Excel or MS Word. The First Dialogue box will export data from Memory to a *.txt file. The “Default Location” will export the measurement data from the current Graph (even if data was obtained from the Data Base). To export data from Memory, select on the right of the “Location” option. A list of Memory location is available for the user to select. Enter the name of the file and select to save.

Figure 35. Main “Export” File Manager

To change the name of an old file, select . In the following window, the user have the option of changing the file name, delete, or copy a file. To change the name of a file, highlight it from the list and proceed to changing the file name. Select to change the name permanently. The same procedure is used for and .

Figure 36. Title “Export” File Manager


By selecting , the user gain access to the “Measurement Data File” window. This menu window allow the user to open DRY LA-920 and old LA900/LA910 files. This window can also be used to save LA-920 data file for display in earlier Measure Program. Select the file and choose File Type to convert the file.

Figure 37. Main “Measurement Data File” window

Selecting from this window will open another file-management window. This window has a more comprehensive description of each file. However, it has limited functionality.

Figure 38. Title “Measurement Data File” window

To convert a data file that is not in Memory, the user must select from the initial “Export File” Window (See Figure 9.1). This will directly bring up the “Measurement Data File” window (See Figure 9.3).

File Conversion This dialogue will setup up the format and content of the export file. • Data Type: Depending on the software and user preference, the export

software will define column separation as either “TAB”,”Comma”, or “Space”. Other programs, such as MS Word or Excel, can import the file and convert the text to Table format using these definition.

• Measured and Calculated Data: Clicking on will bring up the “Display Item Setting” window. This allow the user to choose specific item that will be inclusive or exclusive in the exported file.


• Measured Data: Placing check-marks on these parameters will allow the user to include Particle Size, Density Distribution, Accumulated Distribution, and/or Item information in exported files.

Figure 39. Data Conversion Dialog Box


Options Menu These menu items will customize the user-interface of the LA-920 software. The user may select any of the following items add functions to the tool bar. Window Layout These series of items will create a customized appearance for the Measure,

Display, and 3D Display screens.

Measurement Window: There are two options available in the Measurement Window. • The first list of options allow the user to select a serie of “Control

Buttons” that will appear on the Fixed Button Bar. These control buttons are generally designed to control the “environment” (such as circulation speed and sonication) during measurement. The location of these buttons can be relocated by changing the selection in the “Display Position” (located in the lower left portion of the window).

Figure 40. Window Layout - Measurement Window Tab - Control Buttons

By selecting the “Floating Button Bar”, the operator can gain access to a group of buttons that is independently layered. This Floating Button Bar can be moved to any location on the screen and is accessible when the software is in “Display” or “3D Display” mode.

• The second option is a serie of “Measure Buttons”. These buttons are used to control actual measuring process. These button are also positioned on a Fixed Button Bar. Again, the location of these buttons can be relocated by changing the selection in the “Display Position” (located in the lower left portion of the window).


Figure 41. Window Layout - Distribution Window Tab - Measure Buttons By selecting the “Floating Button Bar”, the operator can gain access to a

group of buttons that is independently layered. This Floating Button Bar can be moved to any location on the screen but is not accessible when the software is in “Display” or “3D Display” mode.

Distribution Window: There are also two options available for this window. The first option, “Control Buttons” have the same items as “Control Buttons” in the Measurement Window. These button are also positioned on a Fixed Button Bar. Again, the location of these buttons can be relocated by changing the selection in the “Display Position” (located in the lower left portion of the window). The “Floating Control Bar” can be positioned any where on the screen by clicking and dragging it with mouse pointer.


Figure 42. Window Layout Menu- 3D Window Tab - Control Buttons The second option will customize the “Graph Layout Area.” The main option

in this window is to define the number of Display Graph (secondary graphs). These graph will be displayed beneath the Main graph and is used to display files from memory. The overlay of the main graph can be changed by selecting any of these secondary graphs. Once toggled on or off, the distribution graph of the selected memory will be removed from the Main Graph.

Figure 43. Window Layout - Distribution Window: Graph Layout Area


3D Window:

There is only one option available for this window. The “Control Buttons” have the same items as “Control Buttons” in the Measurement Window. These button are also positioned on a Fixed Button Bar. Again, the location of these buttons can be relocated by changing the selection in the “Display Position” (located in the lower left portion of the window). The “Floating Control Bar” can be positioned any where on the screen by clicking and dragging it with mouse pointer.

Figure 44. Window Layout - 3D Window options Display Item Settings These settings will affect the output of the Data Results, both on screen and

on print-outs. Divided into three separate screens, these settings allow the operator to customize the output of Raw Data and Calculated Data. To display an item, highlight the item in the list and select . To not display an item, high-light the item and select . The third window allow the operator to customize the Graph Settings.


Figure 46. Display Item Settings: Caculated Data Options

Figure 45. Display Item Settings: Result Data Options

Figure 47. Display Item Settings: Graph Options

Customize The “User Definition” window allows the user to define protocols which helps

manage and calculate in-coming measure data.

Priority of Measurement and Display Condition: This setting will determine how new data are displayed. • Selecting “Previous” will apply all Measure and Display condition

applicable to the “Measure” Memory data. • Selecting “Current” will apply all Measure and Display condition as define

in the current Measure and Display Condition dialogue boxes. • Selecting “Selected” will apply apply all Measure and Display condition

applicable to the currently displayed file.

Memory Selection: This option allow the user to store the new measure data in any of the Memory allocation (in addition to the “Measure” memory). Selecting “No” would disable this function • Selecting “Use No Memory” would set the default Memory allocation to

the next available memory slots. • Selecting “Fixed No.” would set the default Memory allocation to the

memory slot defined by the user.


• Selecting “Select Each Time” will force the program to request a memory allocation for the new measure file.

• Confirm Measure Data Deletion: Selecting “Yes” will force the program to request confirmation when deleting Measure Data.

• Confirm Memory Data Deletion: Selecting “Yes” will force the program to request confirmation when deleting Memory Data.

• Type of Clip Board: The “copy” or “cut” command will save data in the Clip Board as either “bmp” or META” format.


Determine a Blank Value for the dispersant. Particle size measurement data usually includes background data (from scattered light of the dispersant) as part of its scattering data. For most application, it is crucial that this background “noise” is differentiated so that the particle size measurement data reflect the true scattering data from the sample. A blank value is a blank measurement that measures the background data. The blank value is subtracted from the measurement value of the sample solution. This will theoretically differentiate scattered light from the real sample. To optimize the accuracy of particle size distribution results, blank measurement must always be performed before measuring the sample. (Raw Data) - (Background Data) = Scattering Data Background measurements differ depending on the type of cell, the condition of the cell, and the dispersant. The actual procedures for performing the blanking measurements are quite easy. Fraction cell and flow cell measurement procedures are given below.

The measurement utilizes the same measure condition as . Therefore, the sampling times and circulation speed for the two procedure should be the same whenever possible. After performing the blank measurement, the blank value is updated. If blank measurement is not performed prior to each measurement, the old blank value is used instead. Blanking (Fraction Cell)

Procedure for background measurement with the fraction cell.

Step 1 Pour dispersant into the fraction cell. Step 2 Adjust the optical axis if necessary Step 3

From the measure window, click the button to perform the measurement.

Blanking (Flow Cell)

Procedure for background measurement with the flow cell

Step 1 the dispersant into the centrifugal system. Turn on the circulation

to distribute the dispersant uniformlly in the cell. Step 2

Perform “Coarse Optical Adjustment” by selecting . “Fine Optical Adjustment” should be performed at least once a day by

selecting . Step 3

From the measure window, click the button to perform the measurement.


Taking a Measurement The basic procedure for taking a measurement is explained here. Circulation and ultrasonic dispersion can be turned on manually, or controlled automatically by the software. To control them automatically, the “circulation speed” and “Ultrasonic Time” should be checked in the “Measure Condition” dialogue. This procedure assumes the optional Fraction Cell is not installed.

Step 1 Click on to fill the system with the dispersant. Adjust the circulation speed to the desired setting.

Step 2 Perform “Coarse Optical Adjustment” by selecting . “Fine Optical Adjustment” should be performed at least once a day by

selecting . Step 3

Determine a Blank value by selecting . Step 4 Slowly add pre-dispersed sample into the centrigugal system. Depending

on the application, the optimum sample concentration is reached when the Transmittance level for both Laser and Lamp is between 70-95%.

Step 5 Correct circulation speed if needed. If large particles are being measured, increase the speed of the motor. If the dispersion medium contains surfactants, decrease the speed as necessary to prevent foam formation during measurements. Check the “Measure Condition” dialogue box to verify whether or not the “Circulation Speed” is checked. If it is checked, circulation will start automatically when the measurement is started.

Step 6 Apply ultrasonic as needed.

If is used, set the ultrasonic dispersal working time. If the check-box (in the Measure Condition”) is checked, the auto1 measurement will start after the specified ultrasonic period. If ultrasonic is needed during measure, check the “U-sonic Work During Meas” option. Note: Automatic measurement after sonication and sonication during

measurement applies only during Auto1 operation. is a independent process and will terminate sonication when selected.

Step 7 Select the Relative Refractive Index and Form of Distribution. Also, sample information should be entered at this time. These values can be changed after the measurement.

Step 8 If a sequence program is used, create a *.seq file manually or by the “Sequence Wizard”. Note: If using a sequence, the “Memory Selection” in the “User Definition” dialogue should be set to “Use no Memory”. This will ensure that every measurement data (up to 16) will be stored in memory. This also mean that the any sequence program is limited to 16 run.

Step 9 From the measure window, click on either the , , or

button. The Auto button will perform the measurement using the values set in the measure condition window. The measure button will ignore the measure condition values and perform direct measurements. When measurement starts, a small window in the upper-left corner of the screen will appear. Inside the window, “Measuring” is displayed. This message is displayed until the measurement is completed. After completion, the prompt will prompt the user to confirm deletion of Measure and/or Memory Data (Depending on setup of “User Definition”). Answering “OK” will erase data from previous measurement in the “Measure” memory and


input the new data. Same procedure applies to the seconday Memory allocation. Since these data are permanently erased, they should be saved prior to making new measurements. After calculation is complete, the screen automatically switches to the “Display” screen. The dispersion data sampling particle distribution graph and the results of the measurement is displayed.


LA-920 Measure Screen

“Measure” screen This screen is accessible by clicking the button.

Open Sample

Ultrasonic Lamp Transmittance

LASER Transmittance

Sonication

Circulation Display Condition

Sequence Wizard

Run Sequence

Edit Sequence

Print Layout

Current Sort/Index Method Number of Files

in User Defined Index

Total Number of Files in DataBase

Stop

Open Condition File

Print Preview Print

Figure 52. “Measure” Window


TOOL BARS There are two primary tool bars which are “Fixed” and can be customized by the user to facilitate the measuring process. There are also two “Floating” tool bars which are more accessible, but has limited functions. Buttons are categorized according to their location on either the Control Buttons Bar or the Measure Buttons Bar. Control Buttons Bar Below is the “Fixed” tool bar for the “Control” buttons. Since the user can

change the location of this bar, it can be located in the Top, Right, Bottom, or Left region of the screen. This bar is accessible in the Measure, Display, and 3D Display screen.

The number of accessible buttons is defined in the “Control Buttons” options

of “Window Layout”. The following are buttons can be removed or added to the tool bar:

• Stop • Auto1 • Display • Ultrasonic(Ultrasonic

Activation Button) • Ultrasonic Power

• Measure • Auto2 • 3D Disp. • Circulation(Circulation Activation Button)

•

Figure 53. “Fixed” Button Control Bar

The same set of buttons can also be found on the “Floating” Tool Bar. This tool bar is independently layered and can be situated any-where on the screen. As with the “Fixed” Tool Bar, it is accessible in the Measure, Display, and 3D Display screen.

r

Change ultrasonic Powe

Current ultrasonic Power

Clear cumulated Ultrasonic Time

Change UltrasonicTime

Ultra-sonic Activation Button

Ultrasonic Time Cumulated Ultrasonic Time

Decrease Circulation Speed

Increase Circulation Speed Circulation Activation Button

Current Circulation Speed

Figure 54. “Floating” Button Control Bar


Description of Buttons

The Stop button is used to stop ALL active functions. Until the LA-920 unit halts, a dialogue box, which appear in the upper-left corner of the screen, will notify the user with the “Stopping All Active Functions” message. The same action can be achieved using Ctrl+S.

Selecting this button will switch the screen to the “Measure” window.

Selecting this button will switch the screen to the “Display” window.

Selecting this button will switch the screen to the “3D Display” window.

This button will perform an automatic function. The procedure of this function is defined by the current “Measure Condition” setting.

This button will perform an automatic function. The procedure of this function is defined by a sequence file, selected by the system administrator.

The Circulation Activation Button (Circulation On/Off Button) will activate/deactivate the centrifugal system. The dispersant will be circulated through out the plumbing system of the LA-920 at the specified flow rate. The flow rate can be changed incrementally from 1 (slowest) to 15 (fastest) using the Setting Control Button.

These are the Setting Control Buttons. Depending on their position, the Setting Control Buttons can incrementally decrease on increase flow rate, sonication time, or sonication power.

This button will clear the cumulated sonication time. It should be used whenever new samples are added.

The Ultrasonic Activation Button (Ultrasonic On/Off Button) will activate/deactivate the ultrasonic probe. This button can be depress anytime except during measurement. If sonication is needed during measurement,

the button should be used with the proper Measure Condition.

Measure Buttons Bar Below is the “Fixed” tool bar for the “Measure” buttons. Since the user can

change the location of this bar, it can be located in the Top, Right, Bottom, or Left region of the screen. This bar is accessible only in the Measure screen.

The number of accessible buttons is defined in the “Measure Buttons” options of “Window Layout”. The following are buttons can be removed or added to the tool bar:

• Stop • Auto1 • Drain • Auto3 • Course

Adj. • Blank • Feed

• Measure • Auto2 • Partial Drain

• De-bubble • Fine Adj.

• Dilute • Rinse


Figure 55. “Fixed” Measure Button Control Bar

The same set of buttons can also be found on the “Floating” Tool Bar. This tool bar is independently layered and can be situated any-where on the screen. As with the “Fixed” Tool Bar, it is accessible only in the Measure screen.

Figure 56. “Floating” Measure Button Control Bar

Description of Buttons

The Stop button is used to stop ALL active functions. Until the LA-920 unit halts, a dialogue box, which appear in the upper-left corner of the screen, will notify the user with the “Stopping All Active Functions” message. The same action can be achieved using Ctrl+S.

This button will perform an automatic function. The procedure of this function is defined by the current “Measure Condition” setting.



This button will perform a measurement. The scattering data would be obtained using the current “Measure Condition.” However, this function does


not give the operator the option to automatically apply sonication prior to measurement.

This button will perform a Blanking operation. It should be applied prior to addition of samples. The dispersant (and surfactant if applicable) should be circulating during this operation. The blank or background scattering data will be subtracted from the measured scattering data.

This button will perform a Course Optical Axis Adjustment. The LA-920 will automatically perform a self-calibration and re-position the photo-diodes as necessary. Since this operation can be performed efficiently in several seconds, it is recommended that a Course Adjustment is perform prior to each measurement.

This button will perform a Fine Optical Axis Adjustment. The LA-920 will automatically perform a detailed self-calibration and re-position the photo-diodes as necessary. This operation require more time than a Course Adjustment. However, it is recommended that a Fine Adjustment is perform as often as possible. Changes in temperature, which affect the optical bench, or vibration during transport of the unit may slightly reposition the detectors. In those cases, a Fine Adjustment is recommended.

This button will drain the dispersant from the system.

This button will partially drain some dispersant. The shutter to the drain tubing will be opened for a pre-determined amount of time.

This button will attempt to minimize or remove air bubbles. The system will increase circulation speed to detach bubbles from surfaces and the probe will be used to break up bubbles.

This button will dilute the sample. This may be needed when the concentration of sample is too high, resulting in low transmittance. The system will perform a partial drain and feed new solvents(dispersant).

This button will feed dispersant into the system. The dispersant will be added in multiple steps. A small quantity of dispersant is added each time and is allowed to circulate before more are added.

This button will attempt to flush the system. Dispersant will be drained. New dispersant will be added, circulated, and drained to help remove artifacts from previous measurement.


System Administration To complement the LA-920 Measure Program’s versatility and ease of use, the System Administration program provide lab managers and system administrators the option of restricting access to various operators. Because the Measure program offers a variety of tools and options that may not be implemented in every application, system administrator may choose to apply only essential elements and thus optimize the efficiency of the analysis. If security is a concern, the System Administration program also provide a login/password system which will prevent non-authorized users from operating the LA-920. The System Administration program is simple to use. It is composed of five windows that are complementary to each other. Below are description of each window Instrument Condition The first accesible window is the Instrument Condition window. It contains

three items: “ID No.”, “Refractive Index Folder Name”, and “Data Base”. • The “ID No.” is the next sequence number that will be added to the date

to produce a sample ID number. • The “Refractive Index Folder Name” shows the location of the Refractive

Index kernel. By selecting , the system administrator can select a new kernel folder (if more than one is available).

• The last item allow the System Administrator to activate or deactivate the Data Base Program.

Figure 57. System Administration Menu- Instrument Condition


Button Definition The next window is called “Button Definition”. This window allow the System Administrator to assign values to the Auto buttons on the “Control” and “Measure” Tool Bars. The window contains the following items:

Figure 58. System Administration- Button Definition

• Button Select: There are five customizable buttons, and each can be individually accessed using this scroll-list.

• Button: Name of current auto button • Function: A brief description of the auto button. This information is

actively displayed whenever the mouse is placed over the button. • File name: The location and name of the *.seq file that is ran when the

auto is selected. • To change the attributes of any auto button, select it from the list using

the “Button Select”. Click on to enter the “Definition of Button” window. To rename the button, enter new name in the text box below “Button”. To change the description of the button, enter new information in the text box below “Button”. To change the *.seq file, select to open the “Sequence File” manager window.

In this example, the Auto2 button has been reassigned the name

“Analyze SampleX”. The description is changed to “Analyze Sample X using method X”.


Figure 59. Definition of button window

User Definition The next window allow the System Administrator to customize the content of

the Sample Information Dialogue window. This enable the operator to enter more detailed information about the analysis and properties of the sample. There are ten different variables that the system administrator can name. Five are located in “Definition 1”. The second set of variables are accessible by selecting the radio button labeled “Definition 2”.

Figure 60. System Administration- User Definition


Access Level The next window is the “Access Level” window. This window is primarily

used to define types of users and their attributes. The System Administrator can create as many type of user as he or she wishes. Each user type is given a name and an access level. The name is used as a reference when assigning level of access to new users. The access level determines how much control or tools is available to that user type.

Figure 61. System Administration- Access Level

User Type

User Type’s Access Level

User Type’s Attribute

The “Access Level” window has two sections. The top section is used for creating new User Type. The bottom section is used for setting the attributes of that use type.

To create a new user type, click . This will create a new user type with the next available level of access(ie Level2). To give this user type access to the System Administration program, select the check box labeled “System Administration”. Proceed to naming the user type by filling in the empty text box below the access level scroll-list. Note: Although it is possible to have the same user type name for different access level, it is not recommended. To delete a user type, select the access level from the scroll-list and click

. To edit the attribute of a new or old user type, verify that it is selected and the correct User Type name appear in the “User Type” text box. Attributes of each user type are shown in the “User Definition” portion of the screen. If the user type will have full access to all tools and options, select “Full” in the “Type of attribute” scroll-list. If the user type will have default access to tools and options, select “Limit”. For customized access attributes, select “Custom”. The custom setting allow the System Administrator to assign different access attribute to different user type. Attributes:


• Button: This attribute limit the number of accessible buttons to the user

type. Select the radio button labeled “Button” and click on . The “Button Access” window will appear. Two radio buttons allow the System Administrator to select between the list of “Control” and “Measure” buttons. To give the user type access to any of the buttons, it must be checked.

Figure 62. Access Level Menu- Button Access

• Menu: This attribute limit the number of accessible buttons to the user

type. Select the radio button labeled “Button” and click on . The “Menu” window will appear. Four radio buttons allow the System Administrator to select between the list of “Main”, “Print Preview”, “Print Layout”, and “Sequence” menu. Once a radio button is selected, a collapsable list of option is presented in the “Menu Options” frame. To collapse or expand any of the tree, click on the “-“ or “+” root of tree. “-“ will minimize the three and “+” will give a more detailed list. To give the user type access to any of the menu, it must be checked. To change access setting, select an option in the “Menu Options” window. It can be enable by selecting “ON” in the “Switch” frame.


Figure 63. Access Level- Menu Options

Menu Options

• Tool Bar: This attribute limit the number of accessible buttons in the main tool bar of the four screens. Select the radio button labeled “Tool Bar”

and click on . The “ToolBar Access” window will appear. Four radio buttons in the “ToolBar” frame allow the System Administrator to select between the list of “Main”, “Sequence”, “Print Preview”, and “Print Layout” tool bar. Once a radio button is selected, two sets of tool bar appears (one on top and one on the bottom of the window). The top tool bar shows what the user would see. The bottom frame shows all of the available buttons. To insert a button, select its position by clicking on one of the button on the top tool bar. Select the “Insert” radio button in the “Function” Frame. To insert, choose the appropriate button from the bottom tool bar. The selected button should appear on the top tool bar. Similarly, to delete a button, . select the “delete” radio button in the “Function” Frame. Click a button on the top tool bar to delete it.

Note: Although more than one buttons can be inserted, it is not recommended to duplicate buttons. Space on the tool bar is limited and is dependent on the screen resolution.


Figure 64. Access Level- ToolBar Access

• Condition: This attribute limit the number of accessible “display”

condition to the user type. Select the radio button labeled “Condition”

and click on . The “Condition Access” window will appear. To give the user type access to any of the display condition, it must be checked. If the condition is not checked, the default value will always be applied.

•

Figure 65. Access Level- Condition Access

• File: This attribute customize different file managers and determine saving, deleting, and reading privileges for each user type. Select the

radio button labeled “File” and click on . The “File Control ” window will appear. A scroll-list of the different file managers (specific for each file-type) can be accessed by clicking . To give the user type saving, deleting, and/or reading privileges, the appropriate check-box must be checked.


Figure 66. Access Level- File Control

Security The next window allow the System Administrator to administer and changes

user information. While the “Access Level” window determine the attributes of user types (or group of users), the “Security” window allow the Administrator to customize the attributes of individual user. Each user is identify in this window. Information such as User Name (or Login Name), User Full Name, Level, and Level’s name are listed. To change the user’s attributes (which include User Name, User Full Name, and Access Level), highlight his or her User Name. Click on to open the “User Registration” dialogue box. Click on the appropriate text box and changes attribuites as necessary. To change the access Level, click on

and scroll to appropriate Level. Note: Level Name cannot be changed independently in this window. The System Administrator must create a new Level in the “Access Level”. To add a new user, click to open a blank “User Registration” dialogue box. Enter the appropriate information and select an Access Level.

To remove a user, highlight the appropriate User Name. Click to permanently remove the user.

To give all user default access, select “Off” for the “Security” option.


Print Preview ( ) The print preview is a tool that helps user view documents before generating a hard copy. Please refer to Section (?) for instruction on customizing the lay-out and options of Print Preview. The user can also use Print Preview to change printing borders without changing the layout.

Return Insert

Delete Arrow Setting (Home)

Arrow Setting

Landscape

Portrait

Double Page

Margin Print Layout

Print

Single Page Display

Figure 67. Print Preview Screen

Tools:

• Print( ): This button will automatically print the pre-viewed image on the default printer.

• Print Layout ( ): This button will switch the screen to the Print Layout Window where the layout and content of the print-out can be customized. It can also be accessed from File menu.

• Margin ( ): This button will allow the user to adjust the printing margin. Using the four lines as borders, the user can selectively print portions of the image without changing the layout. When this button is selected, the user can move the mouse to the bolded end of the margins (at which time the mouse pointer is transformed int a cross-hair) and


manually manipulate the borders. It can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Single Page Display ( ): This button will display only one page of data per screen. If there are two pages of data, the next page can be previewed by selecting the “Next Page” from the Display menu. It can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Double Page Display ( ): This button will display two pages of data per screen. It can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Portrait ( ): This button will change the print setting to Portrait (vertical). It can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Landscape ( ):This button will change the print setting to Landscape (horizontal). It can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Arrow Setting ( ): This button display a preview of the “printed” image which is defined by the current margin settings. It can be accessed from the Edit menu.

• Insert • Delete • Arrow Setting (Home)

• Return ( ): This button will return the user to the Display or Measure screen. It can also be accessed from File menu.


Print Layout The Print Layout is a program which generates layouts for data ouput. Once implemented, these layout will determine what is printed, how they are arranged, and their relative size.

Layout Area Item List

Cancel

Return

Paste Copy

Cut

Landscape

Portrait Margin Next Page

Previous Page

Print Preview

Figure 68. Print Layout Screen

Tools: • Print Preview ( ): This selection will changes the screen display to

Print Preview. The print preview is a tool that helps user view documents before generating a hard copy. The user can also use Print Preview to change printing borders without changing the layout. This command can be accessed from the File menu.


• Margin ( ): Activating this button will display the printing margins. These margin helps define the printing area (only graphical and text data within the boundary of these margins will be printed). To change the setting or to move these margins, click on and proceed to changing the margin. This command can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Next Page ( ): This button will display the second Layout page. This command can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Previous Page ( ):This button will display the first Layout page. This command can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Portrait ( ):This button will change the print setting to Portrait (vertical). It can be accessed from the Display menu. This command can be accessed from the Display menu

• Landscape ( ):This button will change the print setting to Landscape (horizontal). It can be accessed from the Display menu.

• Cut ( ): This button will remove selected item and store it in the clip-board memory. This command can be accessed from the Edit menu.

• Copy ( ): This button will copy the selected item and store it in the clip-board memory. This command can be accessed from the Edit menu.

• Paste ( ): This will insert the item in the clip-board memory onto the current Layout page. This command can be accessed from the Edit menu.

• Return ( ):This button will return the user to the Display or Measure screen. It can also be accessed from File menu. This command can be accessed from the File menu.

• Cancel ( ): This button will discard all changes and return the user to the Display or Measure screen. It can also be accessed from File menu.

Using these tools, users can customize different print layouts to generate data results that best summarize the analysis. To create a new Layout or modify an existing one, simply select the item on the Layout area and move it into the left frame using click-and-drag method. All or some of the items can be deleted. The left frame contains all available Items that can be printed. To add an item onto the Layout, select the item in the left frame and move it into the layout area. The item can be duplicated, resized, and placed anywhere within the layout area, and it must be within the margin to be printed. Although the current layout can be implemented, the user should save the layout for future use.

Layout Items:

• Title- This item will automatically generate the HORIBA LA-920 banner and the software version.

• Measure Condition- This item will generate some or all information that

summarizes the method of the analysis. By double clicking on the icon, the user can change the content of this item:

There are two items that can be selected for the Measurement Condition. 1. Sampling Times: Reports sampling times 2. U-Sonic During Measurement: Report whether or not sonication was used during measurement. The user have the option of disabling either the “Display Items” information (which describe the data) and/or the data. To change the attributes, the


check box next to “Display Items” and/or “Data” must be checked. Once the item is highlighted, its attributes can be disabled/enabled by clicking on

/ .

Figure 69. Measure Conditions Layout Options

For comparison purposes, the user may choose to have two or more sets of “Measure Condition”. Drag another “Measure Condition” Icon into the Layout area. Each “Measure Condition” are independent and can have different data source and different content. The user can change the data source by selecting another file from “Memory” (Bottom Left Corner).

• Display Condition- This item will generate some or all information that

summarizes the method of data calculation. By double clicking on the icon, the user can change the content of this item:

Figure 70. Display Condition Layout Options

There are thirteen items that can be selected for the Measurement Condition. 1. Form of Distribution- This item will indicate whether the data were fit using a manual or standard distribution. 2. Calculation Level- 3. R.R. Index- This item report the RR Index used to calculate the particle distribution. 4. Distribution Base- This item will indicate whether the graph is displayed in volume, area, length, or number mode


5. Axis Type- This item will indicate whether the data will be presented as bar graph, line graph, or not graphed. 6. Cumulative Distribution Graph- This item will identify whether or not the current graph contains the “Cumulative Distribution” curve. 7. Size Class- This item refers to the type of cumulative distribution graph selected. Retained translates to the cumulative percent oversize. Passing translates to the cumulative percent undersize. 8. Density Distribution Graph- This item will identify the current setting for the Density Distribution Graph. The settings includes Standard, Custom, and Custom %. 9. Axis Selection- This item will indicate whether the Axis were formatted as linear or logarithmic. 10. ISO 9276-1 Format- This item will identify the current format of the data and whether the terminology is standard or ISO 9276-1. 11. Cumulative Particle Size %- This item will identify whether or not the Calculated data contains “Cumulative Particle Size %” information. 12. % Cumulative Particle Size- This item will identify whether or not the Calculated data contains “% Cumulative Particle Size” information. 13. Span

The user have the option of disabling either the “Display Items” information (which describe the data) and/or the data. To change the attributes, the check box next to “Display Items” and/or “Data” must be checked. Once the item is highlighted, its attributes can be disabled/enabled by clicking on / .

For comparison purposes, the user may choose to have two or more sets of “Display Condition”. Drag another “Display Condition” Icon into the Layout area. Each “Display Condition” are independent, having different data source and different content. The user can change the data source by selecting another file from “Memory” (Bottom Left Corner).

• Graph- This item will incorporate a graph of the current file. By double

clicking on the icon, the user can change the format of this graph:

Figure 71. Display Graph Layout Options


This Screen is very similar to the “Grid” window in the “Graph Setting” Menu. However, the “Original Data” option allows the user to apply the graph setting to different Data source.

• Another Graph- This item allows the user to incorporate information to

describe layout graphs. By double clicking on the icon, the user can change the format of this graph:

Figure 72. “Another Graph” Window

There are six items in this window. Two items are static and cannot be changed. They are: 1. Memory No.: Selecting this option will incorporate a legend into the graph. This will help identify each curve according to the Memory Allocation. 2. Graph Type: The other four items are dynamic. The user have the option of changing these item to another by clicking on to open the “Item Selection” screen:

Figure 73. “Another Graph”- Item Selection window This screen allows the user to change any of the four dynamic items. Select the item from the scroll list. When the item is selected, click on

to access the “Item Change” window. A set of radio buttons allow the user to switch between two sets of items. These two groups are Measurement Results and Calculation Results. These list are equivalent to the Measurement Results and Static Data (Calculated Results). However, only one result can be applied for each item. For example, “Diameter on %” (in the Calculation Result window) can have up to 10 results. However, since only one item can be displayed for each data file, the user must select a number between 1-10. Each number correspond to a specific “Diameter on %” value which has been entered in the Display Condition.

Figure 74. “Another Graph” - Item Change window


• Measurement Results- This item will report the settings used during the measurement. By double clicking on the icon, the user can change the

content of this item:

Figure 75. Measurement Results Layout options

There are twenty-seven selectable items. They are listed below: 1. Filename 16. Lot Number 2. ID# 17. Test or Assay Number 3. Circulation Speed 18. Sample Preparation 4. Ultrasonic 19. Dispersion Medium 5. Laser T% 20. Dispersion Steps 6. Lamp T% 21. Dispersion Verification 7. Form of Distribution 22-27. Customized Remarks 8. Calc. Level 9. Distribution Base 10. R.R. Index 11. Axis Selection 12. ISO 9276-1 Format 13. Sample Name 14. Material 15. Source

The user have the option of disabling either the “Display Items” information (which describe the data) and/or the data. To change the attributes, the check box next to “Display Items” and/or “Data” must be checked. Once the item is highlighted, its attributes can be disabled/enabled by clicking on

/ . For comparison purposes, the user may choose to have two or more sets of “Measurement Results”. Drag another “Measurement Results” Icon into the Layout area. Each “Measurement Results” are independent, having different data source and different content. The user can change the data source by selecting another file from “Memory” (Bottom Left Corner).


• Static Data- This item will display some or all calculated results. These results were obtained by mathematical processing of the raw or measurement data. By double clicking on the icon, the user can

change the content of this item:

Figure 76. Static (calculated) data Layout options

There are fourteen selectable items in the “Static Data” window. They are listed below: 1. S.P. Area 12.Geo Variance 2. Median 13. Geo S.D. 3. Diameter on % 14. Chi2 4. % on Diameter 5. Mean 6. Variance 7. S.D. 8. CV 9. Mode 10. Span 11. Geo. Mean

• Data Tables- This item will generate the raw data that was recorded at

each channel or particle size. To change the set of data, double click on the icon to open the “Data Table” window:

Figure 77. Data Table Layout Options


This window allow the user to change the content of the Data Table. By selecting a different Memory from the scroll-list, the user can print data from a different file.

• Notes- This item allow the user to incorporate text and comments into

the report. To enter text, simply double click the icon to open the text editor.

Figure 78. Comment Text Editor

• Bitmap- This item allow the user to incorporate foreign graphics, ie company

logo, into the report. The graphic file must be in the windows *.bmp format. To select a file, double click the icon to open the file manager below:

Figure 79. Bitmap print layout options

To select a *.bmp file, click on to access the file manager. The user can choose either the “Clipping mode” or “Stretch mode”. “Clipping Mode” maintain picture quality by restricting the re-sizing option. “Stretch mode” allow the user to resize the picture using click-and-drag method.


• File List- This item includes a file listing on the report.

• 3D Graphs- This item allow the user to incorporate the 3D graph into the

report. A 3D graph must be generated independently of the current file, please refer to Section on 3D Graphs for details.

• 3D File List- This item summarize the files that were used to create the

3D graph. To edit this list, double click on the icon:

Figure 80. 3D Graph File Layout Options

To include descriptions next to the 3D files, place check-mark next to the appropriate item. The start number box allow the user to limit the number files. The start number correspond to the first file to be reported from the 3D file list.

• Date & Time- This item places a time stamp for the selected file(s).

Figure 81. Data & Time Selection window

The “Date & Time” window allow the user to select the time stamp for the desired file.

LA-920 Software ManualAppendix

Calculated Data

S.P.Area:A total (cm2) of surface areas of particles per cm3. This is calculated from thedensity distribution data. In general, it does not match with the surface areameasured by other measurement methods.

Median:Particle size equivalent to cumulative 50%.

Diameter on�:Up to ten particle sizes corresponding to the cumulative distribution valuespecified in Display Condition are displayed in accordance with the setting.

� on Diameter:Up to ten cumulative distribution valves corresponding to the particle sizespecified in Display Condition are displayed in accordance with the setting.

Mean:A value obtained by arithmetically averaging the density distribution with theequation below:

Mean = { } { }q J X J q J( ) ( ) ( )× ÷ ∑∑whereJ: Particle size division number (in a range of 1 and 64 for fixed interval)q(J): Density distribution value (%)X(J): Typical size (µm) in the "J"th particle size range

Variance:Distribution variance obtained using the equation below:

Variance = ( )∑

−

100)(

)log()(log 2

10Jq

MeanJX

whereJ: Particle size division number (in a range of 1 and 64 for fixed interval)q(J): Density distribution value (%)X(J): Typical size (µm) in the "J"th particle size rangeMean: Mean value (µm)

S.D.:The square root of the Variance value.

CV:Standard deviation divided by Mean value.

Mode:Particle size at the peak of the density distribution graph, which maximizes thedensity distribution value

Span:Distribution span obtained using the equation below. This is not displayed ifneither of Diameter on � is specified.

Span value = (Diameter on % A - Diameter on % B) Median÷where� on Diameter on % A: First value to be entered in Display Condition� on Diameter on % B: Second value to be entered in Display Condition

Geo. Mean:Geometrically averaged density distribution obtained with the equation below:

Geo. Mean =

( )

10

log ( ) log ( )

( )

X J q J

q J

×∑∑

whereJ: Particle size division number (in a range of 1 and 64 for fixed interval)q(J): Density distribution value (%)X(J): Typical size (µm) in the "J"th particle size range

Geo. Variance:Distribution variance obtained with the equation below:

Geometric variance = ( )

102

100log ( ) log( )

( )X J Mean

q J−

∑

whereJ: Particle size division number (in a range of 1 and 80 for fixed interval)q(J): Density distribution value (%)X(J): Typical size (µm) in the "J"th particle size rangeMean: Geo. Mean value (µm)

Geo. S. D.:Geometric variance value without a root.

R Parameter:Value showing the matching level between the calculated result of particle sizedistribution based on the refractive index used and actually measured value ofdata on scattered light. The matching level increases as it becomes closer to zero.This value is used to select a refractive index when a sample with an unknownrefractive index is being measured.R Parameter is obtained with the equation below:

( ) ( )∑=

−=N

iii

i

xyyxyN

R1

11

whereyi: Actually measured data on scattered light of i-th detectory(xi): Data on scattered light obtained from refractive index file data and

displayed particle size distributionN: Number of the detectors

Validation:Validation Result: Shows whether the measurement result is included in thevalidation standard specified in Operation Condition on the Display Conditionsscreen (OK or NG). The defined content of the standard is also displayed. Nothingis displayed when the validation standard is defined.

Chi-2:Value showing the matching level between the calculated result of particle sizedistribution based on the refractive index used and actually measured value ofdata on scattered light. The matching level increases as it becomes closer to zero.This value is used to select a refractive index when a sample with an unknown

refractive index is being measured.Chi-2, x2 is obtained with the equation below:

[ ]X y y xi i2

2

21= −

∑ σ( )

whereyi: Actually measured data on scattered lighty(xi): Data on scattered light obtained from refractive index file data and

displayed particle size distributionσ: Standard deviation of data on scattered light

table of contents - horiba...la-920 software manual installing la-920 software the following section...

Documents