The user interface at the controlling computer is the same, whichever link is used. The command structure for the Model 5900 involves commands which execute individually to set the pulser-receiver parameters. All instrument settings may be viewed locally through an eight line by forty character LCD display which features adjustable contrast and back lighting. Trigger mode selection includes External, Internal, and Remote.
All attenuators use relay switched resistors for accuracy and stability.
All connections other than the transmit and receive jacks are on the rear panel of the unit. With a receiver bandwidth of 200MHz, the Model 5900 permits successful testing in applications where lower frequency instruments fail to provide adequate resolution. Typically the Model 5900 will be used with broadband transducers in the frequency range from 10 to 125MHz in applications involving thin or non-attenuating materials including metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, and biological specimens. These include high resolution acoustic imaging and flaw detection in critical components, thickness gauging of thin materials, high frequency spectrum analysis, and high frequency transducer characterization. For example, as part of an acoustic imaging system such the Model 5900 can be used to detect voids and inclusions as small as 50 microns in acoustically transmissive materials.