TestWare-SX Main Window

File Menu

Allows you to create, open, close and edit test templates.

Procedure Menu

Accesses the Edit Procedure and Execute Procedure  windows after you open or edit a template.

Test Menu

Accesses the test recovery feature.

Template

Displays the name of the test template that is open. If no template is open, or you have not saved a new template, <none> is displayed.

Procedures

Displays a list of template procedures associated with the open test template. All templates include a default test procedure (the actual template).

Creating a new template

Select New Template in the File menu to display the Edit Template window with no steps or processes listed. The Edit Template window allows you to create a new template by adding steps and processes.

Editing a template

Select Open Template in the File menu and select a template. Then select Edit Template in the File menu to display the Edit Template window where you can change each step or process in the template.

More Information

Chapter 2 of the TestWare-SX manual describes how to create a test template and how to edit a test template.


File Menu

New Template

Opens the Edit Template window with no steps or processes assigned.

Open Template

Opens a saved template and lists its associated procedures in the TestWare-SX window. Displays the Open Test Template window where you select the template you want to open. The name of the template you select and all of the associated test procedures are shown in the main TestWare-SX window.

Close Template

Sets the current template back to <none>.

Edit Template

Opens the Edit Template window and displays the steps and processes assigned to the current template.

Exit

Leaves the TestWare-SX program and returns to the TestStar program.


New Template

Selecting New Template  in the File Menu opens the Edit Template window with no steps or processes assigned. Use the Edit Template window to create a new template by adding steps and processes.

Use this menu selection to start a new template.


Open Template

Use this window to open a template file. Select the directory where your templates are saved, then select the template you want to open and press the Open pushbutton.

File

Displays *.000 in the entry field when the window appears. The file name *.000 causes all files with the .000 extension to be shown in the Files list. All template files use the extension .000. When you select a file its name is shown in the entry field.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the template files in the current directory.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

Open

Pressing the Open pushbutton opens the selected template file in the Edit Template window.

Cancel

Returns you to the Main TestWare-SX window without opening anything.


Close Template

The Close Template  menu selection sets the current template back to <none>.

After a template is closed, you can start a new template, open a template or exit the TestWare-SX application.


Edit Template

Opens the Edit Template window and displays the steps and processes assigned to the current template.


Exit Template

Leaves the TestWare-SX program and returns to the TestStar program.


Procedure Menu

Use the Procedure menu to move to the procedure functions.

Using the menu

1	Select a procedure in the main TestWare-SX window.

2	Select Edit  in the Procedure menu to open the Edit Procedure window.

3	Select Execute  in the Procedure menu to open the Execute Procedure window. Double-clicking a procedure in the main TestWare-SX window functions the same as selecting Execute Procedure.


Select Edit Procedure Mode

Select Edit  when you want to edit a test procedure and assign parameters.


Select Execute Procedure Mode

Select Execute  when you want to run a test procedure and monitor its progress.


Test Menu

Use the Test menu to access the test recovery feature so you can restore a test procedure that was stopped before it was completed.


Existing Data File Window

Use this window to select how the test procedure is restored and how the data file will acquire new data. You can access this window from the Recover selection in the Test menu (main window) or the Open data file in the Data menu (Edit/Execute Procedure window).

Prerequisites

You must open an existing data file to obtain that has a test recovery file associated with it to be able to use this window.

Data File, Template, Procedure

These identify the template and procedure that are associated with the data file you opened.

Recovered Test Status

This area describes the status of the test when the last auto save function was performed. If no test status is found, restoration options are not available. The test status is linked to the data file.

Restore

Select Procedure and test status  when you want to restore a test from the point where it was stopped.

Select Procedure only  if you want to run the procedure again and overwrite the test status or, if you edited a procedure when you were executing it and did not save the revised procedure.

Select Neither  if you are not concerned about the test status and wish to run the procedure that you opened.

Data File

Appending data to the end of the file is useful for recovering from a stopped test or iterations of a single test. Use the overwrite option to reuse the data file when old data is not longer needed.


TestWare-SX Edit Template Window

Use this window to create and edit test templates.

File Menu

Allows you to create, open, save, and print templates.

Steps Menu

Allows you to add, edit and remove steps. The menu selections include common edit tools such as cut, copy, and paste. You can also loop steps in the template.

Processes Menu

Allows you to add, edit and remove processes. The menu selections include common edit tools such as cut, copy, and paste.

Options Menu

Configures the data file format and auto save feature.

Template

Displays the name of the template you are working on. If you are creating a new template and have not saved it, the template name is <none>. When you change a template, [modified] follows the template name.

Step

Lists the step names of the template. Use the Steps menu to edit this list. Highlight a step to view its processes or edit it.

Process

Lists the processes associated with the selected step. Highlight a process to edit it.

Editing a template

When you create a new test template you add steps and processes in a sequence to accomplish your test requirements. When you edit a test template you can change the sequence of steps and processes. You can also change the process parameters of the default procedure.

1	Use the File menu to create a new test template or open an existing test template.

2	Use the Steps menu to add new steps or edit existing steps in a test template. Refer to the Steps menu for information about editing steps.

3	Use the Processes menu to add new processes or edit existing processes in a step. Refer to the Processes menu for information about editing processes.

4	When you complete editing the test template, use the File menu and select Save to replace the existing file (deleting all associated processes) or select Save as to save the file with a different name or you want to create a new test template file and retain the original file.

Caution: When you edit a template and save it, all associated test procedures are deleted. Use Save as  to save the template with a different name.


File Menu

Use the File menu to open, create, or edit a template.

New

Opens the Edit Template window without any steps or processes.

Open

Displays the Open Test Template window where you can select a previously saved template.

Save

Saves the current template file. If you have not assigned a name to the template, the Save Test Template window is displayed where you can name the template file. Otherwise the current file is overwritten.

Save As

Displays the Save Test Template window so you can save the file with a different name without changing the original file.

Delete

Displays the Delete Test Template window where you can remove a template file

Print

Prints the current template/procedure to a printer. The information that is printed includes a list of all steps, processes, and their parameters.

Printer Setup

Displays the Print Setup window where you select the printer you want to use.

Print Preview

Displays the Print Preview window where you can view a list of the steps, processes, and parameters of the procedure.

Print to File

Displays the Print to File window where you can save the information that can be printed as a text file.


New Template

Opens the Edit Template window without any steps or processes.

Use the Steps Menu and the Processes Menu to add steps and processes.


Open Test Template

Use this window to open a template file. Select the directory where your templates are saved, then select the template you want to open and press the Open pushbutton.

File

Displays *.000 in the entry field when the window appears. The file name *.000 causes all files with the .000 extension to be shown in the Files list. All template files use the extension .000. When you select a file its name is shown in the entry field.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the template files in the current directory.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

Open

Pressing the Open pushbutton opens the selected template file in the Edit Template window.

Cancel

Returns you to the Edit Template window without opening anything.


Save Template

Saves the current template file. If you have not assigned a name to the template, the Save Test Template window is displayed where you can name the template file. Otherwise the current file is overwritten.


Save Template As

Use this window to save a template file to disk. Select the directory where you want to save the file, and type a name you want to call the template, then press the Save pushbutton.

File

Type the name you want to call the template in the File entry field. The extension .000 is automatically added.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the template files in the current directory.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

Save

Pressing the Save pushbutton saves the selected template file in the selected directory.

Cancel

Returns you to the Edit Template window without opening anything.


Delete Template

Use this window to remove test templates you no longer need. Select the name of the template you want to delete in the Files list. This displays the template name in the File entry file. Press the delete pushbutton to remove the template.

Caution: When you delete a template, all associated test procedures are also deleted. Be certain that you want to delete the selected file. File

Displays *.000 in the entry field when the window appears. The file name *.000 causes all files with the .000 extension to be shown in the Files list. All template files use the extension .000. When you select a file its name is shown in the entry field.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the template files in the current directory.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

Delete

Pressing the Delete pushbutton removes the selected template file. If procedure files are associated with the template, you will be warned that these files will also be removed.

Cancel

Returns you to the Edit Template window without opening anything.


Print Template

Prints the current template file to a printer.

Printing overview

Printing a template allows you to obtain a printed copy of the selections and parameters that make up a test template. When you print a template, you are printing the default test procedure. Printed template information includes the following.

The name of the template and its path.

The data file options.

The name of each step and the selected step done processes.

The name of each process and all of the parameters associated with the process design and parameter windows.

Printing a template

The following is a guideline to produce a printed copy of a template.

1	Open a template.

2	Select Printer Setup  in the file menu and select the printer to be used.

3	If you want to view the contents of the template, select Print Preview in the File menu.

4	If you want to maintain an electronic copy of the information that can be printed, select Print to File in the File menu.

5	Select Print in the File menu to obtain a printed copy of the template information.


Printer Setup

Use this window to select a printer. You must have print drivers installed for each available printer connected to your computer.

Using the window

If you have more than one printer, select the printer you want to use. Pressing the Setup pushbutton displays the Job Properties window. Use this window to establish the print options such as paper size, orientation, and scaling. Refer to your printer manual to determine the proper setup of the print manager.


Print Template Preview

The Print Preview window displays all of the steps and processes that make up a template (default procedure). The information includes all of the parameters that define the template.

Using the window

The information displayed in this window is an outline of the steps, processes, and their parameters that make up a template.

Review the contents of the template/procedure for any errors. For example, check that each step has at least one process assigned to the step done trigger.

Evaluate the start and end triggers for each process for proper sequencing. For example, be sure that segment command processes are sequenced in series. At least one process in a step must use the step start trigger.

The Print menu provides the same print functions as the File menu of the Edit Template window.


Print Template to File

Test templates are not text files. The Print to File window extracts information about the selected template and saves it in a text file.

Use this window to create a text file of the template information. Select the directory where you want the text file to be located. Press the OK pushbutton to save the template text file.

File

Displays the current template name with the extension TXT added. This is the name that the text file will be called.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the template and procedure text files in the current directory. Only files with the TXT extension are listed.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

OK

Pressing the OK pushbutton saves the selected template file in the designated directory.

Cancel

Returns you to the Edit Template window without opening anything.


Steps Menu

Use the Steps menu to create new steps or edit existing steps in a template.

A step includes one or more processes. A step is a logical grouping of processes. Use steps to modularize a long test procedure into smaller logical units.

Undo

Allows you to cancel your last action in this menu.

Add

Displays an additional menu where you can add a new step, add a loop, end a loop, or add a library step.

Add New Step

Displays the Step Design window where you name the step.

Add Loop

Displays the Begin Loop Design window where you name the loop.

End Loop

Marks the end of the loop started with the add loop selection.

Add Library Step

This feature is not available.

Edit

Allows you to change the name of the step.

Set Parameters

Displays the Loop Parameters window where you set the number of times the loop repeats.

Cut

Removes the selected step and copies it into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Copy

Copies the selected step into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Paste

Puts a copy of the buffer contents at the location above the selection bar.

Duplicate

Copies the selected step and pastes it below the selected step.

Delete

Removes the selected step.

Save

This feature is not available.

Save As

This feature is not available.


Undo Step

Use Undo to negate a menu action you have made. Once you use Undo you cannot use it again until you make another menu action. The Undo menu selection also displays the menu action you can undo.

For example, you deleted a step. Select Undo Delete to restore the step. You could not select Undo again to delete the step again.


Add Step

Displays an additional menu where you can add a new step, add a loop, end a loop, or add a library step.

Add New Step

Displays the Step Design window where you name the step.

Add Loop

Displays the Begin Loop Design window where you name the loop.

End Loop

Marks the end of the loop started with the add loop selection.

Add Library Step

This feature is not available.


Add New Step

Adding a step inserts an empty step above the selection bar. Use the Processes menu to add the processes in the step. A test template can include up to 50 steps and processes.

Using the window

Type the name you want to call the step in the entry field.

Press OK  to assign the name to the step.

Press Cancel  to return to the Edit Template window without adding a step.


Add Loop

A loop represents a series of steps. When you add a loop, you must select End Loop to complete the loop. Steps that are part of a loop are indented in the list of steps.

Using the window

Type the name you want to call the loop in the Label entry field. The loop label is displayed in the Steps list of the template and procedure windows. Type the name you want to call the loop counter in the Counter Name entry field. The loop counter name is displayed in the Loop Counters list in the Execute window.

Press OK  to assign the name to the step. Press Cancel  to return to the Edit Template window without adding or changing a step.

Remember, whenever you start a loop, you must end it with the End Loop menu selection.


End Loop

This menu selection marks the end of the loop started with the add loop selection. When you add a loop, you must select End Loop to complete the loop.


Add Library Step

This feature is not available.

But if was available, it would allow you to select a previously saved step. Instead, you can use the cut, copy, and paste functions.


Edit Step

Editing a step simply renames the step.

Using the window

Type the name you want to call the step in the entry field.

Press OK  to assign the name to the step.

Press Cancel  to return to the Edit Template window without adding a step.


Set Step Parameters

Sets the number of times the loop repeats

Using the window

Enter the number of loop repeats in the Total Count entry field. A count of 0 causes the loop to repeat continuously.

Press the OK  pushbutton to enter the count.

Press the Cancel  pushbutton to return to the Edit Template window without entering a count.


Cut Step

Removes the selected step and copies it into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Using Cut and Paste allows you to move a step within the template or to a different template.


Copy Step

Copies the selected step into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Using Copy and Paste allows you to move a copy of a step within the template or to a different template.


Paste Step

Puts a copy of the buffer contents at the location above the selection bar.

Using Paste in conjunction with Cut and Copy allows you to move a step within the template or to a different template


Duplicate Step

Copies the selected step and pastes it below the selected step. Duplicating a step functions like the combination of Copy and Paste. Duplicate adds (Copy #) to the name of the duplicated step.

For example , duplicating a step called Step 1 results in a step called Step 1 (Copy 1). If you duplicate the step again, the new step is called Step 1 (Copy 2).


Delete Step

Removes the selected step.


Save Library Step

This feature is not available.

But if it was available, it would let you save a step to the step library where you could keep a collection of you favorite steps.


Save Library Step As

This feature is not available.

But if it was available, it would let you save a step to the step library where you could keep a collection of you favorite steps.


Processes Menu

Use the Processes menu to add or edit processes in a step. The template must have a step defined before you can use the Processes menu.

Undo

Allows you to cancel your last action in this menu.

Add

Displays the Select Process Type window where you select the process you want to add. The process is inserted above the selection bar.

Edit

Allows you to change the process information you entered with the Add menu selection (name, channel, triggers) for the selected process.

Set Parameters

Allows you to define the default procedure parameters of the selected process (control mode, segment shape, parameter values, etc.). This is the same as double-clicking the process name.

Cut

Removes the selected process and copies it into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Copy

Copies the selected process into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Paste

Puts a copy of the buffer contents at the location above the selection bar.

Duplicate

Copies the selected process and pastes it below the selected process.

Delete

Removes the selected process.


Undo Process

Select Undo to cancel the last menu action you have made. Once you use Undo you cannot use it again until you make another menu action. The Undo menu selection also displays the menu action you can undo.

For example , you deleted a process. You select Undo Delete to restore the process. You could not select Undo again to delete the process again


Add Process

Before you add a process be sure you have the desired step selected in the Steps list of the Edit Template window.

Adding a process displays the Select Process Type window where you select the process you want to add. The process is inserted above the selection bar.

The window has categories of processes. Select the type of process you want and press the OK pushbutton.

You can select any process and press the Help pushbutton to review its function.


Edit Process

Allows you to change the process information that you entered (name, channel, triggers) for the selected process.

Select a process then select Edit to display the appropriate Design window where you can edit the template related functions of the process.


Set Process Parameters

Allows you to define the default procedure parameters of the selected process (control mode, segment shape, parameter values, etc.). This is the same as double-clicking the process name.

The appropriate Parameters window appears for the selected process where you can edit the procedure related functions of the process.


Cut Process

Removes the selected process and copies it into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Using Cut and Paste allows you to move a process within the template or to a different template.


Copy Process

Copies the selected process into a buffer (replacing any previous buffer contents).

Using Copy and Paste allows you to move a copy of a process within the template or to a different template.


Paste Process

Puts a copy of the buffer contents at the location above the selection bar.

Using Paste in conjunction with Cut and Copy allows you to move a process within the template or to a different template


Duplicate Process

Copies the selected process and pastes it below the selected process. Duplicating a step functions like the combination of Copy and Paste. Duplicate adds (Copy #) to the name of the duplicated process.

For example, duplicating a process called Ramp 1 results in a process called Ramp 1 (Copy 1). If you duplicate the process again, the new process is called Ramp 1 (Copy 2).


Delete Process

Removes the selected process.


Options Menu

Use the Options menu to select a data file format and to configure the auto save feature.

Data File Options

Configures the data file to record data in one of three formats.

Plain text file

Lotus text file

Excel text file

Recovery Options

Configures the auto save feature that is used for test recovery.


Data File Options

Use this window to establish the file format for a data acquisition file.

The default setting for the file format can be established when the TestWare-SX software is installed.File Format

Selects the file format to make the data acquisition file compatible with popular spreadsheet applications. Three file formats that are supported.

Plain text file

Lotus text file

Excel text file

Log Events

Records when you press the Run, Hold, and Stop pushbuttons. It also records interlocks that become active. The information is saved in the data file. Events are logged in the data file following the last data taken.

Include Procedure Description

Includes a listing of test procedure steps, processes, and parameters with the data file. The listing of the test procedure is the same information available with the Print Preview function in the File menu.


Recovery Options

Use this window to configure the test recovery feature. The Recovery Options window allows you to choose how to manage a test status file that can restore a test

Auto save for possible recovery

Saves the test status any time the program status changes from run to stop or stop to run (including interlocks). This also enables the other two options.

On step done

Saves the test status at the end of every step.

At least every

Saves the test status periodically. Define how often a snapshot of the test status occurs. Type a value in the entry field and select the units with the list icon.

Default settings

When you create a new template, default settings are applied to the test recovery feature. Test procedures take on the attributes of the default procedure (the template). However, you can change the recovery settings for each procedure.

Data files created with software version 1.3 and older do not have default settings. These files do not automatically save their test status. You manually select recovery options for these files.


Process Command Category

Command processes control a servovalve or servomotor using a closed loop control system. These processes must be sequenced in series to command a control channel. A single command process can be applied to more than one control channel.

You should always have a command process in control of each control channel. If a gap in the command sequence occurs, the actuator position is maintained using the last control mode. If two command processes are applied to a control channel at the same time, the commands are summed together.

Double clicking the command category shows or hinds the processes of that category.


Process Data Collection Category

A data collection process acquires data from one master input channel and up to seven other input channels. You configure the master channel to acquire data according to one of three modes of operation.

Data is temporarily saved in a buffer. The combination of the buffer size and type offer several options to acquire specific data and trigger other processes.


Process External Control Category

External control processes issue control signals to devices external to the servo loop control system.

output signal status information

trigger external devices to do something

issue a voltage level


Process Event Detectors Category

These processes either respond to detectors of conditions or create conditions that trigger other processes.

monitor sensor signals

monitor status signals from external devices

allow operator input

Event processes are very effective at triggering other processes when specific conditions occur.


Process Special Category

Special processes provide capabilities beyond the other category definitions. This type of process can combine the functions of the other categories along with additional capabilities into one process.

Most special processes are part of optional applications. Special processes can be designed for a specific type of testing. Special processes could be a specific combination of standard processes for a given test.


Step Done Window

A Step Done process is required for each step.  The Processes - Edit menu option for Step Done allows you to access the Step Done Definition window.  Within the Step Done Definition window, you may select up to eight processes that can trigger the step done process.  At least one process must be selected to end the step.  If any process selected in the Step Done Definition window reaches its end trigger, the step ends.  Typically, you would select the last command process as the trigger for normal step completion, and any data processes as triggers for premature step completion.


TestWare-SX Execute Procedure Window

Use this window to run a test procedure and monitor its progress. The menus in this window are shared with the Edit Procedure mode.

Steps

Lists the steps of the selected test procedure. Each step is highlighted when it executes.

Stop

Pressing the Stop pushbutton ends the test.

Hold

Pressing the Hold pushbutton suspends the test until the Run or Stop pushbutton is pressed.

Run

Pressing the Run pushbutton starts the test.

Program Status

Displays the current test status. The status can be the following.

Reset (Control menu)

Running (Run pushbutton)

Holding (Hold pushbutton)

Stopped (Stop pushbutton)

Done (test complete)

Error (message)

Loop Counters

Displays a list of the loop counters. Each loop counter shows the name of the loop and the number of times the loop has repeated.

Segment Counters

Lists each control channel and shows the number of segments that have been executed. Reset he counters with the Control menu (Zero Counters).


TestWare-SX Edit Procedure Window

Use this window to run a test procedure and monitor its progress. The menus in this window are shared with the Execute Procedure mode.

Steps

Lists the steps of the selected procedure. Highlight a step to view its processes.

Processes

Lists the processes of the selected step. Double-clicking a process displays the appropriate process parameter window.

Editing a procedure

Use this window to create and edit test procedures. When you create a new test procedure you define each process of each step of the default test procedure. When you edit a test procedure you can change the parameters of one or more processes. Use the following as a guideline to establish a test procedure.

1	Use the File menu to create a new test procedure or open an existing test procedure.

2	Select a step (or add a step and add a process) then double-click a process. This displays the appropriate process parameter window for the process you selected.

3	Complete the process parameter window if you are creating a new test procedure. Change any parameters you choose if you opened an existing test procedure.

4	When you complete the test procedure definition, select _Save_ in the File menu if you want to replace the existing file or select _Save as_ if you want to save the file with a different name.

Before running a test

Before you press the Run pushbutton to start a test procedure, consider the following.

You should have the specimen installed.

You should have the TestStar configuration defined (sensors, detectors, display options, etc.).

If your test includes data acquisition processes you need to set up a data file.

Use the Control menu to reset the test and counters.

During a test

While a test is running, the following are available to you.

The step being executed is highlighted in the Step area of the window.

You can press the Hold pushbutton to interrupt the test and hold the current output. Pressing the Run pushbutton resumes the test. You can also use the Test Control switches on the Load Unit Control panel to run, hold, and stop the test.

You can stop the test at any time with the Stop pushbutton.

If you opened a data file, you can type a note and enter it into the data file.

You can readjust detectors and retune the servo control loop in the TestStar window.

More Information

The back side of the Designing a Test tab (Chapter 2) includes a flow chart to edit a procedure. Chapter 2 also includes a detailed edit procedure example. Chapter 3 includes detailed information about running a test.


TestWare-SX Edit/Execute Procedure Menus

This window can be in the Edit mode or Execute mode. The menus are the same for both modes. Double-click the System Menu icon (upper left) to exit the procedure function and return to the main TestWare-SX window.

File Menu

Allows you to create, save, open and delete test procedure files. You can also print or view the contents off a test procedure.

Mode Menu

Allows you to change between the Execute Procedure window and the Edit Procedure window.

Control Menu

Resets the test and zeros the segment counter.

Data Menu

Creates or opens a data acquisition file and allows you to add test-related information to the data file.

Options Menu

Establishes the format for the data acquisition file and configures the auto save feature (for test recovery).

Procedure and Data File

Displays the names of the selected test procedure and data file.


File Menu

Use the Edit Procedure File menu to create, save, open, and delete procedure files.

New

Allows you to create a new test procedure.

Open

Displays the Open Test Procedure window where you can select a previously saved test procedure.

Save

Saves the current procedure file. Each time you save, the current file is overwritten. If you have not assigned a name to the procedure, the Save Test Procedure window is displayed.

Save As

Displays the Save Test Procedure window so you can save the file with a different name without changing the original file.

Save As Template

Displays the Save Test Template window so you can save the procedure file as a new template file.

Delete

Displays the Delete Test Procedure window where you can remove a procedure file you no longer need.

Print

Prints the current procedure. The information that is printed includes a list of all steps, processes, and their parameters.

Print Setup

Selects the printer you want to use.

Print Preview

Displays the Print Preview window where you can view the procedure information that can be printed.

Print to File

Displays the Print to File window where you can save the information that can be printed as a text file.


New Procedure

Allows you to create a new test procedure.


Open Procedure

Opens a template procedure you want to edit or run.

Using the window

Select a procedure from the list of procedures. The procedures are listed alphabetically (not in the order you created them). The selected procedure shown in the Procedure Name field.

Press the Open pushbutton (or double-click the selection) to open the procedure file.

Press the Cancel pushbutton to return to the Edit Procedure window without opening a file.

Procedure files

Procedure files have a numeric extension that is not displayed with this window. Since the template file (the default test procedure) uses the extension .000, each additional test procedure file associated with the template has a numeric extension that increases by one from the previously saved procedure.


Save Procedure

Saves the current procedure file. Each time you save, the current file is overwritten. If you have not assigned a name to the procedure, the Save Test Procedure window is displayed.


Save Procedure As

Save a template procedure.

Using the window

Type a name you want to call the procedure in the Procedure Name entry field.

Press the Save pushbutton to save the procedure file.

Press the Cancel pushbutton to return to the Edit Procedure window without saving the file.


Save Procedure As Template

Use this window to save a template file to disk. Select the directory where you want to save the file, and type a name you want to call the template, then press the Save pushbutton.

File

Type the name you want to call the template in the File entry field. The extension .000 is automatically added.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the template files in the current directory.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

Save

Pressing the Save pushbutton saves the selected template file in the selected directory.

Cancel

Returns you to the Edit Template window without opening anything.


Delete Procedure

Removes test procedures you no longer need.

Using the window

Select a procedure from the list of procedures. The name of the procedure you want to delete is shown in the Procedure Name field.

Deleting the default test procedure displays a dialog box that informs you that the default test procedure cannot be deleted. You must use the delete template function to remove the default test procedure.

Press the Delete pushbutton (or double-click the procedure) to remove the procedure file.

Press the Cancel pushbutton to return to the Edit Procedure window without deleting a file.


Print Procedure

Prints the current procedure file to a printer.

Printing overview

Printing a procedure allows you to obtain a printed copy of the selections and parameters that make up a test template. Printed procedure information includes the following.

The name of the procedure and its path.

The data file options.

The name of each step and the selected step done processes.

The name of each process and all of the parameters associated with the process design and parameter windows.

Printing a procedure

The following is a guideline to produce a printed copy of a procedure.

1	Open a template.

2	Select Print Setup  in the file menu and select the printer to be used.

3	If you want to view the contents of the template, select Print Preview  in the File menu.

4	If you want to maintain an electronic copy of the information that can be printed, select Print to File in the File menu.

5	Select Print in the File menu to obtain a printed copy of the procedure information.


Printer Setup

Use this window to select a printer. You must have print drivers installed for each available printer connected to your computer.

Using the window

If you have more than one printer, select the printer you want to use. Pressing the Setup pushbutton displays the Job Properties window.

Use this window to establish the print options such as paper size, orientation, and scaling. Refer to your printer manual to determine the proper setup of the print manager.


Print Procedure Preview

The Print Preview window displays all of the steps and processes that make up a procedure. The information includes all of the parameters that define the template and the procedure.

Using the window

The information displayed in this window is an outline of the steps, processes, and their parameters that make up a procedure.

Review the contents of the procedure for any errors. For example, check that each step has at least one process assigned to the step done trigger.

Evaluate the start and end triggers for each process for proper sequencing. For example, be sure that segment command processes are sequenced in series. At least one process in a step must use the step start trigger.

The Print menu provides the same print functions as the File menu of the Edit Procedure window.


Print Procedure to File

Test procedures are not text files. The Print to File window extracts information about the selected procedure and saves it in a text file.

Use this window to create a text file of the procedure information. Select the directory where you want the text file to be located. Press the OK pushbutton to save the procedure text file.

File

Displays the current procedure name with the extension .TXT added. This is the name that the text file will be called.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a different directory, the directory path is updated.

Files

Lists the procedure text files in the current directory. Only files with the .TXT extension are listed.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

OK

Pressing the OK pushbutton saves the selected procedure file in the designated directory.

Cancel

Returns you to the Edit Procedure window without opening anything.


Mode Menu

Use the Mode menu to move between the Edit Procedure and Execute Procedure functions. Both windows are actually the same except for the lower half of the window.

Using the window

Select Edit in the Mode menu to display the Edit Procedure window where you can create, edit, and save procedures associated with a template.

Select Execute in the Mode menu to display the Execute Procedure window where you can run a test procedure and acquire test data.


Select Edit Procedure

Displays the Edit Procedure window where you can create, edit, and save procedures associated with a template.


Select Execute Procedure

Displays the Execute Procedure window where you can run a test procedure and acquire test data.


Control Menu

Use the Control menu to reset the test and zero the counters.

Reset

Zeros the all counters (loops and segments) and resets the test. The test status shows Reset when this is used.

Zero Counters

Clears the Loop Counters and Total Count without resetting the test.


Reset

Zeros the all counters (loops and segments) and resets the test. The test status shows Reset when this is used.

It is good practice to reset each test when it is complete.


Counter

Clears the Loop Counters and Total Count without resetting the test.


Data Menu

Use the Data menu to establish a data acquisition file and record test related information.

Open Data File

Opens an existing file or creates a new file to record data from data acquisition processes. You must open a data acquisition file before you can run a test that includes data acquisition processes.

Close Data File

Closes the file you opened for data acquisition. You close the file when the test is complete.

Description

Displays the Test Description window. This allows you to type a description of the test. The description is saved at the beginning of the data file.

Note

Displays a window where you can type information about the test progress. You use this window to record information about the test while it is running. Notes are saved in the data file following the last data taken.

Data File

A data file uses the extension .DAT. A second file is linked to the data file. This second file maintains the test status while it is being run. The linked file uses the extension .SXS.

When you open an existing data file another window opens that prompts you to select how you want the data written. You can overwrite the existing data or to append to the existing data.


Open Data File

You must open a data file if your test includes data acquisition processes. You should open a data file before you start your test. If you don_t, you will be prompted to do so when you run the test (the test will not start until a data file is open).

File

Enters the name of the data file. The extension .DAT is automatically added.

Current Directory

Displays the path of the current directory. When you select a directory, the new directory path is displayed.

Files

Lists the data files in the current directory.

Directories

Lists the available directories. Double-clicking a different directory displays the new path shown next to the current directory label.

OK

Pressing the OK pushbutton assigns the selected data file to the test.

Cancel

Pressing the Cancel pushbutton returns you to the Main Procedure window without opening a data file.

Opening a new data file

1	Type the name you want to call the data file in the File entry field.

2	Select the directory where you want the data file located.

3	Press the OK pushbutton.

4	When the test is complete, return to the Data menu and select Close Data File.

Opening an existing file

1	Select the directory where the data file is located.

2	Select the data file from the list of data files. Only files with the extension .DAT are listed.

3	Press the OK pushbutton.

4	The Existing Data File window opens. Select Neither or Procedure only in the Restore area.

5	Select Overwrite or Append in the Data File area.

6	Press the OK pushbutton.

7	When the test is complete, return to the Data menu and select Close Data File.


Close Data File

Closes the file you opened for data acquisition. You close the file when the test is complete.


Test Description

Use this window to add information about the test to the data file.

Using the window

Type the information about the test. The test description is added to the beginning of the data file.

Press the Enter pushbutton to have the test description text included in the data file.

Press the Cancel pushbutton to leave this window without changing a test description.

Press the Clear pushbutton to clear the text from the window.


Enter Note

Use this to insert information about the test into the data file during a test.

Using the window

Type the information you want inserted into the data file.

Press the Enter pushbutton to have the note text inserted into the data file.

Select Clear in the File menu to erase any existing note.

Double-click the system menu icon (upper left corner) to close the window without changing the current note contents.


Existing Data File

This window appears if the name of your data file already exits. You also use this window to recover test that was stopped prematurely.

Data File: Template: Procedure:

These identify the template and procedure that are associated with the data file you opened.

Recovered test status

If test recovery was enabled, this area describes the status of the test when the last autosave was performed.

Restore

Restore the procedure and test status when you want to restore a test from the point it was stopped.

Restore the procedure only if you want to run the procedure and overwrite the test status.

Keep the current status for normal operation. Then select the data file option.

Data File

Overwrite the existing data to replace the current data with new data.

Append the existing data to add new data to the end of the existing data.

More Information

See Chapter 1 for an overview of test recovery.

See Chapter 3 for a procedure to recover a test.

See Chapter 4 for information about different uses of the selection options.


Options Menu

Establishes the format for the data acquisition file and configures the auto save feature (for test recovery).


Data File Options

Use this window to establish the file format for a data acquisition file.

The default setting for the file format can be established when the TestWare-SX software is installed.

File Format

Selects the file format to make the data acquisition file compatible with popular spreadsheet applications. Three file formats that are supported.

Plain text file

Lotus text file

Excel text file

Log Events

Records when you press the Run, Hold, and Stop pushbuttons. It also records interlocks that become active. The information is saved in the data file. Events are logged in the data file following the last data taken.

Include Procedure Description

Includes a listing of test procedure steps, processes, and parameters with the data file. The listing of the test procedure is the same information available with the Print Preview function in the File menu.


Recovery Options

Use this window to configure the test recovery feature. The Recovery Options window allows you to choose how to manage a test status file that can restore a test

Auto save for possible recovery

Saves the test status any time the program status changes from run to stop or stop to run (including interlocks). This also enables the other two options.

On step done

Saves the test status at the end of every step.

At least every

Saves the test status periodically. Define how often a snapshot of the test status occurs. Type a value in the entry field and select the units with the list icon.

Default settings

When you create a new template, default settings are applied to the test recovery feature. Test procedures take on the attributes of the default procedure (the template). However, you can change the recovery settings for each procedure.


Enter Note

Use this to insert information about the test into the data file during a test.

Type the information you want inserted into the data file.

Press the Enter pushbutton to have the note text inserted into the data file.

Select Clear in the Edit menu to erase any existing note.

Double-click the system menu icon (upper left corner) to close the window without changing the current note contents.


Note Edit Menu

Use the Edit menu to clear an existing note.


Clearing a Note

Use the Clear selection in the Edit menu to clear an existing note.


Operator Event Window

When you run the test procedure, the Operator Event window opens. Pressing an event pushbutton causes the associated process to end. When an event process ends the associated text disappears and the pushbutton disappears. This allows another process to use the button location.

The operator event process also appears in the load unit control panel display.


File Playback Counters Window

This window displays a list of counters from the current playback file. Each counter is added to the list when it is first encountered in the playback file. Press the Write to File pushbutton to add the current counter information to the data file.

Clearing the Window

Use the Control menu and select Zero Counters to clear the counter values. Select Reset to clear the values and counter names.

More Information

See the File Playback process in Chapter 6 of the TestWare-SX manual for more information about creating counters.