Expression is the standard software package which drives the TA.XTExpress Texture Analyser. It is the ideal package for users who want to measure standard textural parameters without the need for further post-test analysis. Expression is available for use with Windows 2000 and Windows XP Home & Professional and also in PDA format. Contact your local Stable Micro Systems distributor for pricing information of new packages and upgrades.

However, it has become clear that many users of the TA.XTExpress require more capability than that provided by Expression. As a result, Exponent Lite Express has been introduced to accommodate these requirements. Exponent Lite Express is a version of Exponent which is compatible with the TA.XTExpress, and enables simple texture analysis by offering flexibility and simplicity of use without loss of accuracy or performance. Users at all levels will appreciate that minimum learning and training is required whilst providing all of the capabilities to run tests quickly and efficiently. Operationally, it is almost identical to Exponent but without the complexity required by advanced users. EXPONENT LITE EXPRESS FEATURES Both versions of Exponent offer the following features: 1: Calibration and force verification Calibration ensures that measurements made by the Texture Analyser are accurate; Exponent Lite Express provides for the calibration of Force, Height and Stiffness and Force verification: Calibrate Force: A factory calibration is stored in non-volatile memory in the loadcell. In addition, a User 'single point' calibration may be performed with any weight up to the capacity of the loadcell installed, offering convenience and maximising accuracy over the test range being used. Calibrate Height: Probe height calibration defines the absolute probe position from the base or any reference surface so that strain can be measured. Calibrate Stiffness: Single and multiple point frame stiffness provides maximum accuracy for high force and small distance measurements. Check Force: The value of any weight placed on the calibration platform is displayed to verify that the complete force system is calibrated accurately. 2: Instructing and controlling the Texture Analyser Options for specifying the test procedure are: Automatically loading a Test Project: A Project combines all of the components required to initiate a complete test and analysis procedure and is the basis on which a user can centralise all files required for a specific product test. The samples directory contains over 180 projects from which users can select as a starting point. Choosing from a Test Library: A series of classical Texture Analyser tests are included, from which simple or 'enhanced' versions are available for selection. A TA Settings window is displayed which allows the user to specify such parameters as speed and test distance. Advanced features within a test can be hidden for simplification. All TA Settings parameters have an explanatory caption. Probe Control: The arm of the texture analyser can be moved up or down at any speed by moving the slider handle on the Move Probe window. This control also allows movement of the probe to an absolute or incremental distance or force at a specified speed. Five probe positions/forces can be programmed and recalled for quick probe positioning pre-or post-test. Live force and position information is also displayed. 3: Running a test and collecting data Before testing, the Run a Test window establishes test options and post-test parameters such as file name or probe used. Details of the sample and attachments can also be specified for further analysis. Long file names enable the inclusion of detailed information, useful when locating the test file for future viewing. Data Collection Rate  The ability to collect data at high rate is particularly important when testing products that fracture or require high speed separation, such as adhesives. The data buffer is limited only by free memory of the PC. During testing, force, distance and time values and additional peripheral data values, if attached, are collected and the real-time data displayed during the test in a Graph window. Tabbed graph windows for easy access to all relevant archive file information are present. Graphs can also be copied or exported as .bmp or .jpg. Test History Database  This feature tracks when tests were run and where they have been saved. Axes  The graph axes can be changed to display the data in different X and Y combinations.  4: Data Analysis Data, once collected and displayed in a graph window, has to be analysed to interpret results and draw conclusions. Exponent Lite Express provides a wealth of analytical tools, from the most basic option of collecting a single force value, to more sophisticated methods of curve smoothing or detection of inflection points. Data Analysis Icons  Icons for the calculations of such parameters as Area, Gradient, Time Difference, Mean, Count Force Peaks, Force Maxima/Minima etc. are quickly accessible on the toolbar or minimised to those required by the user via the Customisable Toolbar option. Data Analysis Results from manual and automatic analysis are individually displayed. Macro Window  A Macro simplifies repetitive analysis and display, with a set of instructions being listed and executed to automatically collect data from the graph. Tests can be automated with simple or intricate macros ideally suited to a production environment. Tabbed windows for groups of commands provide simplified listings that can be dragged and dropped into the program so eliminating complex syntax. Macro Samples  An extensive library of macro samples is included, providing quick analysis of recommended application methods. 5: Managing Results Result Window Presents results in a customised spreadsheet with provision to add rows and columns to manipulate data, using either user or stored formulae e.g. Standard Deviation, Average etc. Multiple worksheets are available to separate product parameters from results and user data. Exporting Data  Spreadsheets, text or images can be exported to other Windows applications for further specific manipulation/presentation.

PC Requirements

1GHz CPU

1 Gb RAM

1024 x 768 x 24 bit graphics

500Mb of free hard disc space (2Gb if video clips installed)

DVD/CD-ROM

Windows 98, ME, 2000 or XP Home / XP Professional

RS232 port @ 115,200 Baud port (if connected to TA.XTplus)

Mouse

Sound card (optional)

Internet access for updating purposes (optional)

Printer (optional)