TestStar Main Window

The menus configure TestStar for a test.

Use the File menu to manage configuration files.

Use the Edit menu to define input signals, output signals, control channels, meters, and other TestStar features.

Use the Adjust menu for tuning, setting up detectors, and adjusting the servovalve controls.

Use the Display menu to view input signal values, detector settings, meters, or the scope.

This window shows the status of the hydraulic power supply and the test program along with the status of each control channel.

Control Channel Name

The name is entered with the Edit Control Channels window.

Hydraulics

Shows the status of the hydraulic service manifold (or actuator manifold) that is associated with the control channel.

APC State

Shows the status of the Actuator Positioning Control located on the load unit control panel.

Current Mode

Displays the name of the active control mode.

Next APC Mode

Displays the name of a control mode that is available for use with the Actuator Positioning Control. An APC control mode uses the Pod command source.


Fault Status Window

The source of a detector action is identified by the name of the input signal or control channel as defined by the Edit Input Signals window or Edit Control Channels window. The type of detector is also recorded.

All detector actions that occur are reported in this window. The window remains on-screen until the detector condition(s) is resolved

More than one detector action may occur. Sometimes the first detector fault causes other faults to occur. Faults should clear automatically when the fault conditions are no longer valid.


Performance Rate

Use this window to check or change the servo loop update rate. Access this window with the keyboard command Cntl+U.

The servo loop update rate represents the response of the digital controller. Control channels and calculated input signals slow down the servo loop update rate. When this window opens, the maximum update rate is displayed (factoring in the number of control channel and calculated inputs).

You can enter a value less than the maximum rate in the Update Rate entry field. Press the Maximum Rate pushbutton to return the update rate to the maximum value.

See Appendix C in the Reference manual for additional information about the Performance Rate window and the servo loop update rate.


Debug

Use the Debug Options window to record TestStar activity. This is primarily used for programming purposes.

Disable Window Updates

Disables the display located on the load unit control panel. The LUC remains functional except for the display.

Message Log Window

Displays a window that shows the activity between your computer and the digital controller.

Message Log File

Creates a file (C:.log) of the activity between your computer and the digital controller.

Select File

Displays the Select Output Log File window. Use this window to enter a file name (use a .LOGextension) and to redirect the file location from the default file.

More Information

See Appendix D in the Reference manual for detailed information about this feature.


File Menu

Each of the File menu selection displays a window with the following characteristics:

Open

Opens a previously saved configuration file that includes settings for all the TestStar windows.

Save As

Saves the current configuration of all the TestStar window settings.

Select Font

Allows you to customize the text in the TestStar windows.

Print Preview

Allows you to view all the TestStar window settings. You can also save the information as an ASCII file or print it.

Exit

Quits TestStar.


Open

Use this window to open a TestStar configuration file you created.

Open filename

Selects the file you want to open. Selecting a file in the File list it will display the name in this entry field.

Type of file

Selects the type of files displayed in the File list. By default, <All Files> is selected. Select file type :hp2fith the .TCC extension in the Files list.

Drive

Displays the current drive. All root directories of the drive are listed in the Directories list.

Directory

Lists the available directories for the selected drive. Double-clicking a different directory displays the files of the directory in the Files list and any other directories in the Directories list.

File

Lists the files in the current directory according to the Type of file selection. Selecting a file name displays it in the Open filename entry field.

Using the window

You need to know where you saved your configuration files.

1	Use the list icon for the Drive field to select the drive where your configuration files are located.

2	Double-click the desired directory in the Directory list, this causes a its files to be displayed in the Files list and it also displays any additional directories.

3	Select the TestStar configuration file you want to open from the File list. The selection will be displayed in the Open filename field.

4	Press the OK pushbutton to open the file.


Save As

Use this window to save a TestStar configuration file. The default path for this window is the TestStar directory path (C:). We recommend you save configuration files for each type of test you run

Save as filename

Type the name you want to call the configuration file here.

Type of file

Selects the type of files displayed in the File list. By default, <All Files> is selected. Select file type *.TCC to display only the files with the .TCC extension in the Files list.

Drive

Displays the current drive. All root directories of the drive are listed in the Directories list.

Directory

Lists the available directories for the selected drive. Double-clicking a different directory displays the files of the directory in the Files list and any other directories in the Directories list.

File

Lists the files in the current directory according to the Type of file selection. Selecting a file name displays it in the Open filename entry field.

Using the window

You need to know where you want to save your configuration files. We recommend saving TestStar configuration files in the TS directory.

1	Use the list icon for the Drive field to select the drive where you save configuration files.

2	Double-click the desired directory in the Directory list.

3	Type the name you want to call the configuration file in the Save as filename entry field.

4	Press the OK pushbutton to save the file.


Font

This is a standard OS/2 window. Use this window to select a font for the text in the TestStar windows.

Name

Selects the font for text in the TestStar windows.

Size

Selects the point size of the font.

Style

Applies normal, italic, bold, or bold italic to the selected font. Use a style that is easy to view such as normal.

Sample

Displays the selected font, size and style so you can see what it looks like before you assign it.

Emphasis

DO NOT use these selections. The TestStar text would become unreadable


Print Preview

This window shows a summary of the current TestStar settings in an outline format.

File

Use the File menu to print the TestStar settings or save them to an ASCII file Some selections display standard OS/2 windows.

Printer Setup displays a window where you set up your printer.

Print sends the settings information to your printer.

Print to File saves the settings information in an ASCII format.

Update Display corrects any settings that changed while this window has been open.

Select Printer Font selects a font for the printed copy of the TestStar settings.

Display

Use the Display menu to select the types of TestStar settings information you want to view.

System Information

Input Signals

Output Signals

Control Channels

Constants

Actions

Show All


Edit Menu

Each of the Edit menu selection displays a window with the following characteristics:

Input Signals

Defines input signals from sensors (transducers), calculations, and external signals.

Output Signals

Defines the signals assigned to the 6 rear panel output connectors (J71 - J76).

Control Channels

Defines the control channels.

Control Modes

Defines the control modes.

Calculation Constants

Defines constant values that can be used in calculated input signals.

Detector Actions

Defines up to 6 hold or ramp actions that can be used with the limit, error, and underpeak detectors.

Load Path Stiffness

Select a load path stiffness set that is compatible with the hardware in the load path.

LUCP Display

Allows you to customize the display area in the load unit control panel.

Toolbar

Assigns a button as a short cut to any TestStar window.

Meters

Defines up to 4 digital displays. Each display can monitor a signal in 1 of 4 display modes.

Scope

Defines the controls for the digital scope.


Edit Input Signals

Use this window to define input signals. Controls are added to the bottom of the window according to the signal type you select.

Signal Selection

Assigns the sensor to one of the 14 slot locations (which correspond with the plug-in modules) or creates one of the 8 possible calculated inputs.

Signal Name

Names the input signal. The name you enter is used throughout the TestStar windows to identify this input signal. Enter any name you wish.

Signal Type

Specifies the type of signal to define. Controls needed for the selection are added at the bottom of this window. TestStar checks the type of module plugged into the slot location to determine what selections are appropriate. The following types are supported:

None indicates that an input signal is not assigned.

AC Conditioner or DC Conditioner defines a sensor connected to an ac or dc conditioner installed in any slot location.

External defines a sensor signal from an external conditioner. This selection is available for slot locations 7 - 14 only.

Calculation defines an input signal that has a mathematical equation applied to a signal. Calculation is the only selection when you are defining a calculated input signal.

Dimension

Assigns the type of units for this signal. Select an appropriate dimension for the signal.

Display Units

Selects the specific units you want to assign to the sensor signal. The selected dimension determines what units are available.

Signal Label

Specifies a number to distinguish input signals of the same dimension. TestStar uses this label internally to identify the input signal internally.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Conditioner Signals

When you select an AC Conditioner or DC Conditioner signal type the Assign Sensor pushbutton and Range list box appear on the bottom of the window.

Use the Assign Sensor pushbutton to display the Assign Sensor window where you select a calibrated sensor.

Use the list icon to select a Range from the list of calibrated ranges.

Note: The sensor you assign should be connected to the rear panel connector (J1 - J14) that corresponds with the module (slot) location of the ac or dc conditioner.  More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about signal types.


External Signals

When you select an External signal type the Assign Sensor pushbutton, Assign Temporary pushbutton, and Range list box appear on the bottom of the window.

Use the Assign Sensor pushbutton to display the Assign Sensor window where you select a calibrated sensor.

Use the list icon to select a Range from the list of calibrated ranges.

Use the Assign Temporary pushbutton to display the Define External Sensor window where you set up a sensor file.

Note: The sensor you assign should be connected to a rear panel connector (J77, J78, or J42) that corresponds with a module location (slots 7 - 14).More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about signal types.


Calculation Signals

When you select the calculation signal type, you assign a formula to one or more input signals to create a unique calculated input signal. A calculated input signal applies the equation to each sample of the input signal.

Use the calculation area to express a formula. A calculation always starts with the equal symbol (=) followed by a formula. Several functions are available to create a formula that defines a calculated input.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about signal types and the functions available for calculations.


Input Signals

Input signals are from sensors (transducers). Each sensor signal must be defined for use with TestStar. TestStar uses 3 types of input signals.

An internal signal type is conditioned by an ac or dc conditioner plugged into the digital controller. This is the most common type of input signal.

An external signal type is conditioned outside the digital controller.

A calculated input signal type uses one or more defined input signals and calculates a new signal according to a formula you create.

You have access only to calibrated sensors. Sensors are calibrated with the Sensor Calibration program. See the Installation manual to calibrate sensors.

Use the Edit Input Signals window to add input signals to TestStar.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about input signals.


Assign Sensor

Use the Assign Sensor window to select a sensor from your sensor data base

Select the sensor you want assigned to the slot. Be sure the sensor is connected to the appropriate rear panel connector. Only calibrated sensors matching the selected dimension are displayed so if you do not see the sensor you are looking for, check the dimension selection in the Edit Input Signals window.

Pressing the Calibration Info pushbutton displays some of the sensor calibration information entered with the Sensor Calibration program.


Define Sensor

Use the Define External Sensor window to define an external signal from another control system without defining an external signal with the sensor calibration program.

Sensor Name

Names the external signal. Call it anything you want.

Range

Defines the range of the input signal. Enter a value that defines 10 volts.

Range Units

Specifies the type of units for the range value. The type of units is determined by the input signal definition.

Offset

Specifies an electrical offset that is applied to the external sensor signal.

Invert Sensor Polarity

Reverses the polarity of the input signal.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about external signals.


Edit Output Signals

Six digital-to-analog (DAC) converters are available for output signals and they correspond with the rear panel Readout connectors J71 - J76. Controls are added to the bottom of the window according to the signal type you select.

Signal Selection

Selects one of the 6 possible output signals for definition.

Signal Name

Names the output signal. The name you enter is used throughout TestStar to identify this output signal. Enter any name you wish.

Output Type

Specifies the type of signal you want to define. Your selection displays appropriate controls at the bottom of the window. The following are the signal type selections.

None indicates that an output signal is not defined.

Analog Bus monitors internal signals during calibration or setup procedures. This selection is available only on Output 1 and Output 2.

Readout monitors any input signal. This type of output can be scaled.

Programmable customizes the output for use with optional MTS TestWare applications.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about output signals.


Output Signals

Output signals are from input signals, conditioner signals, valve signals, and optional TestWare applications. Output signals are available at the rear panel connectors J71 - J76 or J41A and J41B. If you use an output signal you should know about the device it is connected to.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about output signals.


Analog Bus

Most of the signals in TestStar are converted to digital information for processing. Some signals are available before they are converted. The analog signals that are available are related to the plug-in modules. The analog bus is needed to monitor these signals.

A Device is one of the plug-in modules (an ac/dc conditioner or a valve driver). Each device has a unique set of signals you can monitor.

Connect an analog readout device (such as a voltmeter or oscilloscope) to the appropriate rear panel connector. Analog bus A can be monitored at J71 and analog bus B can be monitored at J72.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about the available signals.


Readout Signals

When you select the readout signal type, you select a signal and scale it for output. A monitoring device should be connected to the rear panel connector (J71 - J76) that corresponds with the DAC you defined.

Signal

Selects one of the following signals to be assigned to the output:

any input signal

the valve command signal from each control channel

the program command signal to the active control mode

the error signal from the active control mode

Gain

Specifies a multiplier for the output signal. The Gain setting of 1 (default) scales the readout signal to 1 volt per unit. Use gain to customize the amplitude of the output signal for your needs.

Offset

Specifies a mean level offset of the output signal. The Offset setting of 0 (default) references the signal to 0 volts. Use offset to calibrate the TestStar output with your monitor device.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about scaling the output signals.


Programmable Output Signal

When you select a programmable output, the rear panel connector is reserved for use by an optional MTS TestWare application. TestWare applications can customize the output.

An example of a programmable output is the Analog Output process in TestWare- SX application.


Control Channel

A control channel commands an axis of movement. TestStar supports up to four control channels. Each valve driver module represents a control channel.

Each control channel requires at least one control mode. Each control mode uses at least one input signal. Knowing the nature of your test program and the type of control channel helps you determine what kinds of control modes (and their types) are needed.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about control channels.


Edit Control Channels

Use this window to define each control channel. A drive type is required to enable a control channel.

Control Channel Selection

Selects the control channel you want to define. The number of control channels is selected during the software installation.

Channel Name

Names the control channel. Type a name you wish to call the channel. This name is used throughout TestStar to identify the control channel.

Channel Label

Labels the control channel as a particular type of channel.

Axial

Torsional

Pressure

Generic

Selecting none will maintain the selections in this window but will not allocate controller resources to produce a signal

Drive Type

Selects the type of servovalve connected to the control channel.

none

252

dual 252

256/257

Auto-Tuning Control Mode

Selects a control mode to control the actuator while the auto-tune feature monitors the response of the control mode being tuned. If no control modes have been tuned, select Undefined. Normally, a tuned displacement control mode should be selected.

Phase/Amplitude (PAC)

Enables or disables the phase amplitude control method. Enabling it allocates system resources which means the servo loop update rate is reduced. This makes PAC available for the Function Generator and the TestWare-SX cyclic command (even though these command sources do not have to use it).


Edit Control Modes

Use this window to define the control modes for each control channel. Controls are added to the bottom of the window according to the control mode type you select.

Control Modes

Selects one of the 10 control modes you can define for each control channel.

Mode Name

Names the control mode. Type a name you wish to call the mode. This name is used throughout TestStar to identify the control mode.

Mode Type

Specifies the type of control mode you want to define. Your selection displays appropriate controls for the mode at the bottom of the window.

PIDF provides the highest level of servo loop response and is used for specimen testing.

Channel Limited Channel (CLC) provides a limiting channel for servo loop control and is used for specimen installation.

Cascade (CASC) provides a high degree of load stability and is primarily used for dynamic testing with force control

Mode Label

Selects a letter to distinguish control modes of the same dimension.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about control channels.


PIDF Control Mode

A PIDF control mode type has several gain adjustments to stabilize the servo control loop. PIDF represents proportional, integral, derivative, and feed forward gain adjustments. The following controls are added to the Edit Control Channels window.

Command Source

Selects the source of the command signal. The selections are:

Segment generator-the source is from TestStar Function Generator or TestWare application.

Pod-the command source is from the Actuator Positioning Control (APC) on the load unit control panel.

External-the command source is from an external device connected to the rear panel of the digital controller. This selection is available only if you select a feedback (input signal) that is defined as an external signal type.

Feedback

Selects an input signal as the source of feedback for the control mode.

External Source

Specifies the location of the external command source (if external is the selected command source).

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about control modes.


CLC Control Mode

A CLC control mode uses one input channel to control the servo loop (feedback) while using a second input channel (limiting channel) to restrict the command source. The limiting channel uses a limit range to ensure the feedback signal cannot produce a command that exceeds the range set for the limiting channel. The following controls are added to the Edit Control Channels window.

Command Source

The only command source available is Pod. This command source is from the Actuator Positioning Control (APC) on the load unit control panel.

Feedback

Selects an input signal as the source of feedback for the control mode.

Limit Channel

Selects an input signal as the source of feedback for the limiting channel.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about control modes.


Cascade Control Mode

The Cascaded control mode is used for specimen testing that requires a high degree of load stability (such as dynamic load applications). Use the cascaded control mode for dynamic testing with force control. The following controls are added to the Edit Control Channels window.

Command Source

The source of the command signal can only be from a segment generator. A segment generator can be the TestStar Function Generator or TestWare application.

Outer Loop

Selects an input signal as the source of feedback for the outer loop of the control mode.

Inner Loop

Selects an input signal as the source of feedback for the inner loop of the control mode.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about control modes.


Edit Calculation Constants

Calculation constants are used in calculated input signals. Calculation constants are helpful when you use the a constant multiple times. This way, the constant can be changed with this window instead of changing a formula that uses a specific constant.

Constant Selection

Selects a constant to define. You can define up to 16 constants.

Constant Name

Names the constant. Type a name you wish to call the constant. Use this name in the formula that defines a calculated input signal.

Dimension

Assigns the type of units for this constant. Select a dimension that is appropriate for the constant.

Display Units

Selects the specific units you wish to assign to the constant. The selected dimension determines what units are available.

Current Value

Specifies the value of the constant.

Referenced in Calculations

Lists all the calculated input signals that use this constant. This helps you determine the impact of changing the value of the constant.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for examples using calculation constants.


Edit Detector Actions

The detector actions are available to all TestStar detectors:

Error detectors

Underpeak detectors

Limit detectors

Customer-defined actions stop the test program and hold or ramp the actuator position.

Action Selection

Selects an action to define. Actions 1 - 4 are predefined and cannot be changed. Only actions 5 - 10 can be defined.

Action Name

Names the detector action. The name you enter is used throughout TestStar to identify this action.

Action Type

Specifies a ramp or a hold action. Controls needed for the selection are added at the bottom of the window. The Disabled selection closes the action so it does not appear in the detector action selections.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for examples and detailed information about creating customer-defined actions..


Ramp Actions

A ramp action causes the actuator to ramp to a specific level. The following controls are added to the Edit Detector Actions window.

You really need to know how the test behaves when using a ramp action. Be sure to set up a detector appropriate for your test.

Ramp Time

Sets the amount of time (in seconds) for the ramp. The selected control mode ramps from the current level to the specified end level in the specified time.

Control Channel

Selects a control channel defined with the Edit Control Channels window.

Control Mode

Selects a control mode defined with the Edit Control Channels window.

End Level

Sets the end level for the ramp. The units of the control mode are assumed.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for examples and detailed information about creating customer-defined actions.


Hold Actions

Hold actions are useful when you want to stop a test without causing an interlock or tuning the hydraulic pressure off. All that is needed is to select a control channel and a control mode. The type of control mode should reflect how the action will be used. The following controls are added to the Edit Detector Actions window.

Control Channel

Selects a control channel defined with the Edit Control Channels window.

Control Mode

Selects a control mode defined with the Edit Control Channels window.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for examples and detailed information about creating customer-defined actions..


Edit LUCP Display

Use this window to define the appearance of the display on the load unit control panel. The load unit control panel display can accommodate 16 rows (including the title bar, message bar, and switch descriptions).

Using the Window

Select items one at a time in the Available Items column and use the right arrow pushbutton to move it to the Selected Items column. More than one item is be selected and moved at a time.

The order of items in the Selected Items column represents the order which they will be seen in the load unit control panel display.

Items in the Selected Items column can be returned to the Available Items column by selecting them and pressing the left arrow button.

Special Items

The Input Signal Header displays "Sensors" and "Current Value" above a list of input signals.

The Control Channel Header displays "Controllers", "Current Mode", and "LUCP Mode" above a list of control channels.

Five blank lines can be used to separate items in the LUCP display.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about creating customer-defined load unit control panel display.


Edit Load Path Stiffness Set

Use a load path stiffness set to remove any influence the load path hardware components have on the specimen data. Each combination of hardware components in the load path should have a set created for it.

Using the Window

Use the list icon to select a predefined load path stiffness set. A description of the stiffness set is shown in the Description area.


Edit Meters

A meter is a digital display on the computer screen that shows test related signals. You can define up to four meters.

Meter Selection

Selects one of the four meters you want to define.

Type

Selects the type of data you want to display. The selections are:

Timed-updates the display once a second with the amplitude of two input signals.

Peak/Valley-displays the highest and lowest values of an input signal during each cycleof a dynamic test.

Span/Mean-displays the amplitude and mean level values of an input signal during each cycle of a dynamic test.

Running Max/Min-displays the highest and lowest values of an input signal recorded during a test (or since the Data Display was reset).

Display

Enables or disabled the meter. Only enabled meters can be displayed from the Display menu.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about meters.


Configure Toolbar

A toolbar can be displayed below the menu bar. The toolbar is a row of pushbuttons that can open any TestStar window. Each TestStar window has a unique icon or graphic associated with it.

Using the Window

Select windows one at a time in the Available Windows column and use the right arrow pushbutton to move it to the Selected Windows column. More than one item can be selected and moved at a time.

The order of items in the Selected Windows column represents the order which they will be seen in the toolbar from left to right).

Items in the Selected Windows column can be returned to the Available Windows column by selecting them and pressing the left arrow button.

More Information

See Chapter 3 in the Reference manual for detailed information about configuring a toolbar.


Edit Scope

Use this window to define a digital scope.

Scope Selection

Selects one of the two scopes to be configured.

Enable Display

Enables or disables the scope. The scope must be enabled to display it. The scope requires processing time when it is enabled; this reduces the maximum servo loop update rate. Disable the scope when it is not needed or if you wish to configure it and use it later.

Sweep Type

Selects a single sweep of the screen or continuous sweeps. A single sweep draws a signal on the screen once. A continuous sweep draws over the old signal trace with new data.

Trace Time

Specifies the amount of time to draw a signal trace across the screen of the digital scope.

Refresh Time

Specifies how often the data being drawn on the screen is updated. Shorter refresh times require more processing time.

X Channel

Y1 Channel

Y2Channel

Selects an input signal (or time) for the Y1, Y2, or X channel. The X channel is usually set for time. The X channel is the bottom of the screen. The Y1 channel is the left side of the screen. The Y2 channel is the right side of the screen.

Using the window

The Sweep Type, Refresh Time and Trace Time controls work together to configure the scope for any kind of signal. The shorter the trace time and the longer the refresh time, the better the resolution of the waveform (more data points defining the waveform).

To display a slow ramp select a trace time long enough to show the entire ramp and a short refresh time. To display a cyclic waveform, select a trace time short enough to show a single cycle and a longer refresh time.

More information

See Chapter 3 in the TestStar Reference manual for detailed information about the scope.


Calculation Functions

Use the operators =, +, -, *, and / with the following math functions. Functions identified with an asterisk (*) must be used by themselves in any calculated input formula. They may not be used in a complex equation.

avg(y,x)

* Returns the last x samples of input signal. Y can be any input signal (including calculated inputs) or variable constant. X can be 1 to 100.

constants

Constants are defined with the Edit Calculation Constants window. A constant is always entered with curly braces constant name.

cos(x)

Returns the cosine of x; x is in radians. Domain: -12868.0, 12868.0. Range: -1.0, 1.0.

exp(x)

Returns en (where n=x). Domain: -_, +88.72. Range: 0.0, +_.

ln(x)

Returns the natural log ln(x) Domain: 0.0, 3.4n (where n=38). Range: -103.28, 88.72

log(x)

Returns the base 10 log of x. Domain: 0.0, 3.4 Range: -44.85, 38.53.

power(x,y)

Returns xn (where n=y). Domain: x [>0.0, +infinity], y [-_, +_]. Range: -_, +_.

prev(x)

* A special function that returns the input x (input signal) and stores the last 100 samples of that signal in a circular buffer. The stored samples may be accessed in an indexed mode using braces "[x]" (where x is the sample to be indexed).

Input Signal Name

The signal name defined in the Input Signals Definition window. A signal name is always entered with curly braces signal name.

round(x)

Rounds off the value of x to the nearest constant.

sin(x)

Returns the sine of x; x is in radians. Domain: -12868.0, 12868.0. Range: -1.0, 1.0.

tan(x)

Returns the tangent of x; x is in radians. Domain: -6434.0, 6434.0. Range: -_, +_.

time

Increments at the servo loop update rate. Time is always entered with curly braces time. The clock is reset when the Function Generator or TestWare-SX program is started. A command to reset the clock is available for those who program.

trunc(x)

Truncates the value of x.

[x]

Brackets identify a variable array.


Adjust Menu

Each of the Adjust menu selection displays a window with the following characteristics:

Input Signals

Sets the upper and lower limits for each input signal along with zero and range adjustments.

Tuning

Tunes each PIDF, channel limited channel, and cascade control mode.

Adjust Compensators

Adjusts how the compensator methods work.

Error Detectors

Sets up 2 error detectors for each control mode.

Underpeak Detectors

Sets up an underpeak detector for each control channel.

Drive

Adjusts the parameters for a series 252or 256/257 servovalve. The Drive window that appears depends on the type of drive selected in the Edit Control Channels window.


Adjust Input Signals

Note: You must define an input signal with the Edit Input Signals window before you can use this window.  Signal Selection

Selects the input signal you want to adjust. You can set different limits and actions for each of the input signals defined in Edit Input Signals window

Limits

Establishes the settings of the limit detector for the selected sensor. The upper and lower limits define an acceptable range for the sensor output during a test. Each limit can be assigned a different action.

Sensor Zero

Introduces an offset to zero the sensor's output. The offset is shown as a percentage of the sensor's output. Select Unlock or Lock to enable or disable the sensor zero feature in this window and the Display Input Signals window. This is not available for calculated and external input signals.

Pressing the Offset pushbutton opens the Set Scroll Range window to scale the adjustment range of the scroll bar. Pressing the Auto Zero pushbutton automatically zeros the sensor output.

Shunt Calibration

Performs a positive or negative shunt calibration check and displays the result in a Shunt Cal window This is available only for dc type internal sensors

Sensor

Displays the current sensor output and allows you to change the range of the sensor. This is not available for calculated input signals.

Acceleration Compensation

Minimizes unwanted feedback causes by the acceleration of the fixture and specimen mass. This is available only on input signals that use the acceleration compensation option (see the software installation chapter in the Installation manual.)

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Limits

The upper limit defines the most positive or least negative level for the limit detector. The lower limit defines the least positive or most negative level of the limit detector. The difference between the upper and lower limits represents the normal operating range of the sensor.

When set correctly, a sensor output beyond this range represents a change in the test that deserves attention. Limits can also protect your equipment if a specimen breaks. If the sensor output exceeds either limit, the digital controller performs the action that you assign with the limit action fields.


Sensor Zero

The following are examples why you may want to zero a sensor output

Note

You cannot zero a sensor being used with the active control mode when hydraulic pressure is on.

Assume an LVDT is calibrated with the zero point at mid-actuator displacement. After a specimen is installed, the LVDT sensor output may not be zero. In this situation you would want to zero the output.

After installing a grip, you may zero the force channel to remove the effects of the weight of a grip fixture on the force sensor output.

Before installing an extensometer, use the zero pin or gage length fixture to establish the mechanical zero of the sensor. Use sensor zero if the sensor output is not zero.


Shunt Calibration

Use shunt calibration periodically to check the accuracy of a dc sensor and associated conditioning circuit.

You cannot check shunt calibration of a sensor being used with the active control mode when hydraulic pressure is on. See the Shunt Cal window for additional information.

You also use shunt calibration to check accuracy when you move a sensor and sensor cartridge to a different dc conditioner, or if you change the sensor cable (the cable resistance may be different). Shunt calibration does not compensate for changes in the sensor sensitivity over time.

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about shunt calibration.


Range

Each sensor can be calibrated for more than one range. A range redefines the input channel to represent a portion of the sensor's physical capacity. You can create a range for any portion of a sensor's capacity. Select a full-scale range to optimize the maximum sensor output for a test.

Note: Be sure you select a range large enough to accommodate the maximum sensor output expected during a test.


Actions

An action determines what happens when the associated limit level is crossed. If a detector action stops the test, you must use the Reset button on the load unit control panel to clear the fault. The following are the actions you can use:

Disabled turns the limit detector off.

Indicate displays a message in the Fault Status window that the detector has been triggered.

Hydraulics Off turns off the hydraulic pressure and displays a message in the Fault Status window.

Hydaulic Interlock turns off the hydraulic pressure, generates an interlock signal, clamps the servovalve, and displays a message in the Fault Status window. You must correct the reason for the interlock and use the Reset button (located on the load unit control panel) to clear the interlock.

Customer-defined actions can be defined to ramp or hold the control channel output. These actions may also be identified with a customer-defined name or as Action 5 - 10.

Note: Customer-defined actions are created with the Edit Detector Actions window.


Set Scroll Range

This window scales scroll bar adjustments. This is a generic window that is configured for the needs of the control that is to be scaled.

Use this window if you want to fine tune the range of an adjustment. If all of your adjustments (for a single control) fall into a narrow range, or you feel the steps between values seems coarse, you may want to optimize the adjustment range of the control.

Range

Shows the range of acceptable values for the minimum and maximum values. The range depends on which adjustment evoked this window.

For example, the range for the auto zero adjustment is ±100.00 and the range for a tuning adjustment is 0 to 3.40282e+28 (which is a very big number).

Maximum

Minimum

The minimum value sets the lowest value of the scroll bar (when the slider box is all the way to the left). The maximum value sets the highest value of the scroll bar (when the slider box is all the way to the right).


Adjust Tuning

The Tuning window opens with controls for the active control mode. There are three types of control modes and they use different sets of controls.

PIDF -Proportional, integral, derivative, and feed forward are a group of gain adjustments to tune the servo loop response using a single feedback source.

Channel Limited Channel -A CLC control mode uses one input channel to control the servo loop (master channel) while using a second input channel (limiting channel) to restrict the master channel. The limiting channel ensures the master channel operates within a limit range. The tuning controls consist of gain controls for the master and limiting channels along with adjustments to establish the limit range.

Cascade -A CASC control mode uses two feedback sources, one for an inner loop and one for an outer loop. The output of the outer loop is the input to the inner loop. Gain and rate controls tune the outer loop while gain and reset controls tune the inner loop.

Auto Tune

Displays the Auto Tuning window where you configure the auto tune feature.

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window and Chapter 9 for information about tuning.


Tune PIDF Control Mode

PIDF-proportional, integral, derivative, and feed forward are a group of gain adjustments that tune the servo loop response. Use the PIDF control mode for specimen testing.

These controls are are added to thebottom of the Adjust Tuning window. Pressing any of the adjustment pushbuttons displays the Set Scroll Range window where you can change the adjustment range of the slider boxes. Each adjustment can have a different range.

P

Adjusts the amount of proportional gain. Proportional gain affects the servo loop response to a servovalve command.

I

Adjusts the amount of integral gain. Integral gain affects the system steady- state (dc) error.

D

Adjusts the amount of the derivative gain. Derivative gain affects stability at higher proportional gain settings.

F

Adjusts the amount of feed forward gain. Feed forward affects the system performance at high frequency operation.

More Information

See Chapter 9 in the Reference manual for information about tuning.


Tune CLC Control Mode

Channel-Limited-Channel tuning controls establish the response of the CLC control mode for specimen installation (and removal) using the load unit control panel. Also use this window to establish an operating range for the limiting channel.

These controls are added to the bottom of the Adjust Tuning window. Pressing the Master P or Limiting P pushbutton displays the Set Scroll Range window where you can set the range of adjustment for the control. Each adjustment can have a different range.

Master P

Adjusts the amount of proportional gain of the master control channel.

Limiting P

Adjusts the amount of proportional gain of the limiting control channel.

Upper and Lower Limits

Defines a range for the limiting control channel. The limiting channel range ensures the command does not exceed the upper and lower limit values. You select values based on the modulus of the specimen.

More Information

See Chapter 9 in the Reference manual for information about tuning.


Tune Cascade Control Mode

These adjustments tune the response of both servo loops of the cascade control mode . Use the CASC control mode for specimen testing that requires a high degree of stability (such as dynamic load applications).

These controls are added to thebottom of the Adjust Tuning window. Pressing any of the adjustment pushbuttons displays the Set Scroll Range window where you can change the adjustment range of the slider boxes. Each adjustment can have a different range.

Outer Loop P

Adjusts the level of proportional gain for the outer loop. Proportional gain affects the servo loop response to a servovalve command.

Outer Loop D

Adjusts the level of the derivative gain for the outer loop. Derivative gain affects stability at higher proportional gain settings.

Inner Loop P

Adjusts the level of proportional gain for the inner loop.

Inner Loop I

Adjusts the level of integral gain. Integral gain affects the system steady- state (dc) error.

More Information

See Chapter 9 in the Reference manual for information about tuning.


Adjust Compensators

Compensators are methods that ensure the command end levels are reached. Use this window to adjust each type of compensator for each control channel. Pressing the Convergence Rate or the Limit pushbutton displays the Set Scroll Range window where you can change the adjustment range of the slider boxes.

Control Channel Selection

Selects the control channel for compensation adjustment.

Compensator Selection

Selects the type of compensation method to be adjusted.

Peak/Valley provides amplitude/mean control.

PAC provides phase/amplitude control. It must be enabled with the Edit Control Channels window before it is listed here.

Convergence Rate sets how quickly the difference between the command and sensor feedback is reduced.

Limit limits the maximum amount of PAC compensation. The peak/valley compensator has a fixed limit.

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Adjust Error Detector

Use the error detectors to detect changes in the specimen characteristics during a test. Each error detector monitors the level of error between the test command and the sensor feedback signal of the associated control mode.

Control Channels

Selects a control channel. Each control channel has two error detectors that can have different values assigned to each control mode.

Action

Selects the actions that the error detectors take when the detector triggers.

Control Mode

Selects a control mode. Each control mode has 2 error detectors. Each error detector can have different settings.

Error Values

Sets a maximum and minimum value for the selected control mode. The units are set by the input signal defining the control mode.

Set the Minimum error to a lower error level that indicates the beginning of a change in the specimen. Then set the Maximum error to a value that stops the test at a higher error level.

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Adjust Underpeak Detector

An underpeak detector monitors an input signal and is best suited for cyclic tests. Use this window to define an acceptable minimum operating range for a control channel. Detection begins after the input signal enters the underpeak range. Each control channel can have an underpeak detector.

Control Channels

Selects a control channel. Each control channel can have one underpeak detector.

Action

Selects the action that the Underpeak detector takes when the detector triggers. If the detector triggers, it must be reset with the Reset button on the load unit control panel.

Input Signal

Selects an input signal for the detector. The unit of the input signal is automatically loaded into the maximum and minimum parameters.

Maximum and Minimum

Sets values of the underpeak Minimum and Maximum parameters within the range of the selected input signal. The values are expressed with the units of the selected input signal.

Sensitivity

Determines when the maximum or minimum value is detected. The sensitivity setting is the amount the signal must change to detect a maximum or minimum value. The sensitivity value is expressed in the units of the input signal.

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Adjust Drive (252)

The drive adjustments optimize the interface between the digital controller and a Series 252 Servovalve configuration.

Valve Balance A

Electrically compensates for minor mechanical unbalance in the servovalve.

Valve Balance B

A second valve balance adjustment is shown if a dual 252 servovalve configuration is being used.

Dither Amplitude

Adjusts the amount dither needed to overcome friction in the servovalve. Dither is most effective for static and low-frequency tests.

Dither Frequency

Adjusts the dither frequency. The operating frequency of the system can affect the dither frequency setting. The typical dither frequency for a Model 252 Servovalve is 500 - 700 Hz (625 Hz is nominal).

Setup

Pressing this pushbutton displays the following controls at the bottom of the window.

Polarity

Selects the polarity of the signal driving the servovalve. See Appendix B in the Installation manual.

Balance Controls

Selects how the valve balance controls operate. Select Separate to adjust each control individually (when each valve is used for different tests). Select Combined to adjust both controls simultaneously (when both valves are used for the same test).

More Information

See Chapter 4 in the Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Adjust Drive (256/257)

The MTS Series 256 and 257 Servovalves include an inner loop. Controls for this type of servovalve set up and tune the inner control loop.

Note: The inner loop controls are set when the TestStar system is installed. See Appendix B in the Installation manual to set up the servovalve.

Valve Balance A

Electrically compensates for minor mechanical unbalance in the servovalve.

Dither Amplitude

Adjusts the amount dither needed to overcome friction in the servovalve. Dither is most effective for static and low-frequency tests.

Dither Frequency

Adjusts the dither frequency. The operating frequency of the system can affect the dither frequency setting. The typical dither frequency for a Model 256 or 257 Servovalve is 700 - 900 Hz.


Shunt Calibration

A shunt calibration reference value is determined when the sensor is calibrated for use with a specific range. The reference value is usually set for approximately 80% full-scale

This window shows the reference value and a shunt cal value that is taken when the Shunt Cal pushbutton was pressed.

Compare the Shunt Cal Value with the Shunt Cal Reference value to determine if the sensor requires recalibration.

If the difference is less than 10 mV, the calibration is OK.

If the difference is between 10 mV and 150 mV you should adjust the excitation value in the Sensor Calibration program. Add or subtract the shunt cal difference to/from the excitation value. If other ranges of the sensor use the same excitation value, also change the excitation value for those ranges.

If the difference is more than 150 mV you should recalibrate the sensor with the Sensor Calibration program.


Adjusting Acceleration Compensation

Be sure the system is tuned before adjusting acceleration compensation.

1	Be sure that no specimen is connected to the actuator.

2	Set up the function generator for a high frequency signal (approximately80% - 100% of the maximum frequency the test is defined to produce.)

3	Select the input signal to be adjusted.

4	Monitor the input signal being adjusted with an oscilloscope.

5	Run the function generator command.

6	Adjust the Acceleration Compensation adjustment until the feedback is minimized.


Auto-Tuning

The auto-tuning feature automatically tunes control modes to a moderate level of tuning.

Prerequisite

The auto-tuning feature is only available for PIDF control modes using the segment generator (SG) command source.

End Levels

The end levels represent limits for the signal that exercises the actuator. Set the end levels to the upper and lower amplitude values that are expected for the control mode being tuned.

Run Auto-Tuning

Pressing this pushbutton starts the auto tuning feature. This in turn displays the Running Auto Tuning window. It takes auto tuning about 1-2 minutes to finish.

During auto-tuning, the command value on the scope doesn't reflect the actual command.

More Information

See Chapter 9 in the TestStar Reference manual for additional information.


Running Auto-Tuning

This window appears while auto tuning is in progress. It takes auto tuning about 1-2 minutes to finish. If nothing happens after two minutes, press the Stop Auto Tuning pushbutton. (The valve balance may need adjustment).

More Information

See Chapter 9 in the TestStar Reference manual for additional information.


Accepting New Gains

This window shows the initial gain settings and the new gain settings. The new gain settings are calculated based on the response acquired during the auto tuning procedure. Pressing the Accept Gains pushbutton replaces the previous gains with the new gains. Remember to save your configuration file so the new gain settings are retained.

More Information

See Chapter 9 in the TestStar Reference manual for additional information.


Display Menu

Each of the Display menu selection displays a window with the following characteristics:

Input Signals

Shows the current output of each input signal. This also allows signal zero and range changes.

Detector Actions

Shows the setting and action for each limit detector (both can be changed). Also shows the action selections for the error and underpeak detectors (these can be changed too).

Meter

Displays the meters defined in the Edit Meters window.

Scope

Displays the scope defined in the Edit Scope window.


Display Input Signals

All signals defined with the Edit Input Signals window are listed at the left of the window. Some types of signals do not have all the display functions available.

Calculated input signals do not have zero pushbuttons or range selections.

External input signals do not have zero pushbuttons.

Signal

Lists the names of the input signals. Pressing a signal pushbutton displays the Adjust Input Signals window where you can adjust the test parameters of the input signal

Current Output

Displays the current output of the input signal (sensor).

Zero

Allows you to zero the sensor output when the pushbutton is present and enabled.

Range

Shows the current range of the input signal and allows you to change it.

More Information

See Chapter 5 in the TestStar Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Display Detector Actions

This window puts all the detector action selections established with the Adjust menu into one window. The window works like two separate windows. Any change you make in this window can occur while a test is running.

Detectors

Selects which detectors are displayed in the window. The Limits selection shows the input channel detectors. The Control selection shows the control channel detectors.

Limits

Lists the names of the defined input signals. The upper and lower limits along with selected action may be changed in this window.

Control

Shows the selected action for the Underpeak and Error detectors. The action selection for these detectors can be changed in this window.

More Information

See Chapter 5 in the TestStar Reference manual for detailed information about this window.


Display Meters

Note: You must define and enable each meter with the Edit Meters window before you can display the meters. Up to four meters can be displayed at one time. You can arrange the meters with the Alignment menu.

Use the Control menu to start displaying data. Use the stop and hold selections to stop or suspend the display. Use the reset selection to clear the displays.

More Information

See Chapters 3 and 5 in the TestStar Reference manual for detailed information about meters.


Display Scope

This window shows the signal defined with the Edit Scope window. Each signal can be displayed with different colors and you can resize the display when you resize the window.

The File menu allows you to print the display. It also allows you to customize the display colors and fonts.

Select Run the Control menu to start displaying data. Select stop to to quit displaying data. Use the reset selection to clear the scope display.

The scroll bars have an additional set of buttons. Drag these buttons to change the upper or lower value of the axis. Use the middle of the scroll bar to move the range within the full-scale range of the axis. Double-click a scroll bar to display the Set Scroll Range window where you can precisely set the display range.

More Information

See Chapters 3 and 5 in the TestStar Reference manual for detailed information about the scope.