Stable Micro Systems

THE
WORLD
STANDARD
FOR
TEXTURE
ANALYSIS
Food

Pharmaceuticals

Cosmetics

Personal Care

Adhesives

www.stablemicrosystems.com
 WORLD STANDARD TEXTURE ANALYSERS

S
table Micro Systems brings you the most successful Texture Analysers available today the CALIBRATION PLATFORM
TA.XTplus and TA.HDplus World Standard instruments. In the last 20 years, our simple to use A platform on which reference weights are positioned for calibration of the installed
philosophy has benefited over 5000 customers engaged in activities ranging from routine loadcell. All loadcells are factory calibrated but may also be user calibrated with any
product quality assurance to fundamental research. This philosophy has been enhanced in the plus weight up to the loadcell capacity to provide optimum accuracy at the force range
range, where many powerful analytical tools increase the instruments capability and yet reduce your of specific interest.
test and analysis time.
LOADCELL
Texture analysis is the mechanical testing of food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, adhesives and other
A transducer fitted in the arm of the Texture Analyser which measures force in
consumer products either in compression or in tension. The TA.XTplus and TA.HDplus Texture Analysers
compression or tension. Information such as capacity, calibration and serial numbers
assess textural properties by capturing force, distance and time data at a rate of up to 500 points per
is stored within the loadcell and automatically detected upon installation. This makes
second which is then displayed by fully integrated Exponent 32-bit software. These most powerful and loadcell changing easy and quick and prevents potential user errors.
versatile Texture Analysers completely satisfy the increasing demands for accurate, repeatable and
quantifiable textural information and stand as a significant evolution from single-parameter to multi-
SAMPLE TESTING AREA
functional computer controlled instruments to carry out a wide range of measurements. This is where the appropriate probe or fixture (examples shown below) is attached
The TA.XTplus and TA.HDplus use a range of different probes and fixtures according to the required test method. Each probe or fixture is designed for sample location and testing.
for a specific group of applications, and can be attached to the texture analysers base and/or arm. Samples are either placed on the base of the
texture analyser or on the lower fixture or held between two fixtures. In a simple test, the arm of the texture analyser containing a loadcell moves
down to penetrate or compress the product, and then returns to its initial position.
Extrusion Shearing Tension Bending Puncture Compression
High speed testing capability up to 40mm/s will be of interest when matching
Why use Stable Micro Systems Texture Analysers? specific operating conditions or imitating real-life situations.
Stable Micro Systems are the only Texture Analyser supplier to offer you: A minimum speed of 0.01mm/s permits accurately controlled approach for
In-house product testing and method development laboratory precise location of the sample surface and the testing of thin or fragile samples.
Dedicated software Speed can also alter in proportion to the instantaneous height of the sample so
that products can be tested at a constant strain rate in compression or tension.
Direct liaison with universities and research institutions
Totally programmable multi-stage testing facilities are offered so the
The most comprehensive range of testing attachments available worldwide
user can define individual test sequences. This unique control feature
Worldwide sales and service support
enables the most complex test protocols to be established. As a
Stable Micro Systems advanced technology texture analysers are internationally recognised as the complete instrument with its unique result, the Texture Analyser is not limited to fixed library tests.
ability to be configured to meet the requirements of most International and National Standards as well as industry specific tests.

EMERGENCY STOP BUTTON

Additional Features and Benefits of the TA.HDplus
CONTROL PANEL
With a maximum force capacity of 750kg (7.5kN), the TA.HDplus is the most powerful and versatile
Enables manual control of the
dedicated Texture Analyser available today. A family of intelligent, factory calibrated loadcells down to 5kg
texture analyser arm.
provides precision testing to a few grams and makes this instrument the obvious choice for users testing
a wide range of products or those users who have undefined future product testing requirements.
PC LINK
The height range and greater testing bed area provide the ability to test much larger samples without Computer cable connection for software control and analysis.
compromising accuracy whilst the twin column frame provides the required rigidity to accommodate See pages 4-7 for software explanations and options. ELECTRONICS
measurements of considerably higher force for heavy duty applications such as those shown below. Electronics (firmware and hardware) for control of the
PERIPHERAL ATTACHMENTS Texture Analyser are housed in its base. New firmware
Multi-channel data acquisition ports for plug-in peripherals have can be downloaded (flash upgraded) by a quick and
been incorporated into the design. This allows for many other simple software interface so that new features can be
measuring devices such as temperature and humidity modules to added to enhance the instruments capabilities. This
be used in conjunction with the Texture Analyser and their data allows access to latest developments and improvements
Tensile Compression Shear Extrusion Friction 3 Point Bend simultaneously collected. See pages 8-9. after initial instrument installation.

2 3
 USING EXPONENT & EXPONENT LITE 3 RUNNING A TEST & COLLECTING DATA

Before testing, a Run a Test window establishes the test options and post-test parameters such as file name or
probe used. Details about the sample and attachments can also be specified for further analysis. Long file names
Stable Micro Systems recognises the need to constantly increase the capability of Exponent software by provide the ability to insert more detailed information which is useful when locating the test file for future viewing.
adding testing procedures, presentation formats and analytical solutions. This is of particular importance

Data Collection Rate
for those in Research. However, many users require simple test and data analysis solutions that are used in QA or in a high throughput production
This is the speed at which data is collected during the test.
environment. Therefore, two versions are available Exponent and Exponent Lite. Both versions offer the same basic functions. However, Exponent
The ability to collect data at high rate is particularly important
has added data collection and analysis features and enhanced security options.
when testing products that fracture or require high speed separation such as during the testing of adhesives.

1 CALIBRATION AND FORCE VERIFICATION 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
Calibration ensures that measurements made by the Texture Analyser are accurate; Exponent and Exponent Lite provide
a Graph window. Tabbed graph windows for easy access to all relevant
for the calibration of Force, Height and Stiffness and Force verification:
archive file information are present. Graphs can also be copied or

A: Calibrate Force: A factory calibration is stored in non-volatile memory in

exported as .bmp or .jpg.
the loadcell. In addition, a User single point calibration may be performed with
Test History Database

any weight up to the capacity of the loadcell installed in the Texture Analyser. This offers convenience and maximises
accuracy over the test range being used. This feature tracks when tests were run and where they have been saved.

Axes

B: Calibrate Height: Probe height calibration defines the absolute probe position from
the base or any reference surface so that Strain can be measured. The graph axes can be changed to display the data in different X and Y combinations. Logarithmic and second

Check Force The value of Y axes are also available. (Exponent only feature).
any weight placed on the
calibration platform is 4 DATA ANALYSIS
C: Calibrate Stiffness: Single and Multiple point frame stiffness displayed to verify that the Once data has been collected and is displayed in a graph window it has to be analysed in order to interpret the results and draw conclusions. Exponent
provides the maximum accuracy for high force and small complete force system is 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

calibrated accurately.

distance measurements. detection of inflection points.

Data Analysis Icons

Icons for the calculations of such parameters as Area, Gradient, Time
2 INSTRUCTING & CONTROLLING THE TEXTURE ANALYSER
There are three options for specifying the test procedure. Difference, Mean, Count Force Peaks, Force Maxima/Minima etc. are quickly accessible on the tool bar or minimised to only those required by the user via the
Customisable Toolbar option.

A: Automatically Loading a Test Project: A Project combines all of the

Data Analysis

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 The results from manual and automatic analysis are individually displayed.
samples directory contains an ever increasing range of over 180 projects from which
Macro Window

users can select as a starting point.
A Macro simplifies repetitive analysis and display. A
B: Choosing from a set of instructions are listed and executed which

Test Library: automatically collect data from the graph. Tests can
A series of classical be automated with either simple or intricate macros
Texture Analyser tests
which are ideally suited to a production environment. Tabbed windows for groups of commands provides simplified listings that
are included from which simple or enhanced versions are available for selection. A TA Settings
can be dragged and dropped into the program so you do not need to remember complex syntax.
window is displayed which allows the user to specify such parameters as speed and test distance
Macro Samples

required for the test procedure. Advanced features within a test can be hidden for simplification. All
TA Settings parameters have a caption which explains what each parameter does. An extensive library of macro samples are included which provide quick analysis of recommended application methods.

C: Programmable Sequencing*: This allows total flexibility in the

programming of the Texture Analyser arm movement. New test sequences can be 5 MANAGING RESULTS
written to accommodate sophisticated arm movement requirements, data capturing Result Window

options and control of peripheral measurements such as temperature modules. This window tabulates results in customised spreadsheet format.
Rows and columns can be added to manipulate data using either

Probe Control
The arm of the texture analyser can be moved up or down at any speed by simply your own or stored formulae e.g. Standard Deviation, Average etc.
moving the slider handle on the Move Probe window. This control also allows movement Multiple worksheets are available to separate product parameters
of the probe to an Absolute or Incremental distance or force at a specified speed. Five from results and user data.
probe positions/forces can be programmed and directly recalled for quick probe
Exporting Data

positioning pre-or post-testing. Live force and position information is also displayed.
*Exponent only feature Spreadsheets, text or images can be exported to other Windows applications for further specific manipulation/presentation.

4 5
 FEATURES ONLY IN EXPONENT
Exponent software will maintain its ongoing expansion to provide the most powerful and flexible testing analysis solution available. This fully ENHANCED SECURITY MODULE
established software package is set to continue to be the software of choice for:
Developed in accordance with the FDA CFR21 Part 11 guidelines, the EXP/ESM Enhanced Security Module for Exponent software the dedicated
Researchers or advanced texture analysts
software for use with the TA.XTplus and TA.HDplus Texture Analysers has been introduced to provide electronic record and signature
Users requiring long-term flexibility of operation and analysis
management.
Users requiring additional synchronised data measurements, such as temperature or acoustics, with traditional texture analysis data
It offers the user features to improve the security of their own and their customers' information, as well as facilitating continuous monitoring and tracking of
ADVANCED DATA ANALYSIS results and records. Features include an encrypted log-on password of at least seven characters, combined with password protection for validation of
Exponent provides a wealth of sophisticated analytical tools which calibration checks. In addition, multiple hierarchical levels of user profiles are available and electronic signatures can be used for record certification.

are available for immediate use and quick interpretation.
Another important feature is the ability to copy and print out audit trails, allowing clear visibility to
trace results and records. The module also provides protective security measures to detect and
PRESENTATION & LAYOUT OPTIONS notify any attempt at unauthorised use of passwords and/or identity codes during the audit.
Chart Window

Main Features:
A chart gives a visual representation of the data from the Results window.
Strict password checking option.
Select from 27 Chart types (2D and 3D) and define rotation, position, 3D
Locks program after pre-defined amount of inactivity.
lighting properties, legend styles, base and wall styles, and
Sends messages to specified users or computers on detection of tampering.
axes type (stacked, normal or %).
Advanced logging of actions such as logging in/out, changing options, performing calibrations, etc.
Report Window

Policies to create common security rights for groups of users.

A report is a great way to establish a strict format for Define the number of login attempts before being locked out.
presenting information for others. For example, reports Specify lockout time if required.
allow users to present hourly online test results to their Specify password validity.
managers or to present well-formatted reports to marketing Specify a number of unique passwords required before reuse.
and customers. Reports may include graphs, results files, Option to force user to change password when they next login.
pictures, logos, text, test settings, test preferences, batch Ability to display a custom reminder if the password is forgotten.
numbers, information about the products tested, etc. Option to prevent user from changing their password.
Option to disable a user account or temporarily prevent it from being used.
Reports are automatically generated from active objects
Option to give individual users rights to verify actions such as calibrations.
and fields when a report template file is open. A Spell
Ability to log Check Force results with independent user verification.
Checker, Thesaurus, support for tables and OLE objects
are also included.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Sax Basic Macro Language

User Configurable Shortcut Keys

Enables quick access to features that you want and how Full debug facilities including breakpoints, single step, step over etc. Access to advanced Exponent
you want to obtain them. data and commands.

Language Editor

User Configurable Tools Menu

One software version has all language options. Choose

Create shortcuts to your favourite utilities
the language you prefer at the User window. Languages
straight from our menus.
may be edited using the translator.

OLE Automation
Workspaces This offers an interface for easy integration into many programming

For saving window layouts in the preferred configuration. languages allowing total automation within a bespoke system.

Sequence Debugging Facility

Dockable & Customisable Toolbars

Once a sequence has been written by the user it can be debugged

User-selectable tools layout as seen in other 32-bit should any error have occurred in the user sequence programming.
Windows programs.

Test Maker
This is an external facility which allows a user to simply build a
customised test from a selection of standard arm movements which
can be imported into Exponent.

6 7
 CONNECTION OPTIONS
This chart gives examples of the peripherals which may
be used with the TA.XTplus or TA.HDplus Texture Analyser
for additional data capture or instrument control when
used in conjunction with Exponent.
Connected to: PT 100 1 & 2
PT100 Temperature
Probes
(Order Code: XT/TPR):
Up to 2 (if 2 are connected then
Auxiliary port is not available).
This is a PT100 thermocouple
probe that gives direct
measurement over the
temperature range 50 to
+250C. Accuracy +/-0.5C.
Additional
Data Collection
Options
Vernier *
Allows linear distance
measurements to be directly fed
into Exponent as part of the test
sequence. It would be attached
via the USB port on the PC.
Typically a Sax Basic script would
collect a single value which would
be stored within the Product Data
of the test.
Barcode Scanner *
With the aid of a BASIC script, a
product barcode can be scanned
to automatically select the correct
project ready for testing, allowing
even more automation and
reducing user error.
8 9
Connected to: RS485 Connected to: EXP (Auxiliary port) Connected to: Loadcell
Temperature Module Acoustic Envelope Detector: Dough Inflation
(Order Code: FIT/MOD) Reference System
The module measures and plots product temperature over the range (Order code: A/RAED) (Order Code: DR/DISPL)
-50C to +250C. It has a fast response time and a sensor accuracy of A/RAED enables measurement of absolute acoustic levels calibrated to Complete system for the
0.35C over the standard working temperature range. It can be easily National Standards. Includes reference acoustic calibration source to measurement of bi-axial
cleaned and sterilised without degrading performance. National Standards. extension properties of dough.
Force, Distance and Speeds are
converted to Pressure, Volume
and Flow Rates.
Temperature & Humidity Module Milliohmeter
(Order Code: FIHT2/MOD) (Order code: A/OHM1,2,3)
The Hygroclip is a product designed according to International Standards. For the measurement of electrical resistance over the ranges 0-2 and
It has an operating range of 0-100%RH (relative humidity) and -30C to 0-20ohms (A/OHM1), 0-200 and 0-2000ohms (A/OHM2), 0-2000 and
+100C. Accuracy at 23C is 1.5%RH and 0.3C. Given the size of this 0-20000ohms (A/OHM3)
probe it is more suited for insertion into current Stable Micro Systems
temperature units.
Balance Video Playback Indicator
Sample weight can be fed directly into Exponent as part of a test sequence. (Order Code: A/VPI)
To aid synchronising of video and force data. It can also be used whilst
using other data capture devices such as the Acoustic Envelope Detector.
If used in conjunction with the AED a splitter adapter is required for the
AUX port.
Operational
Indexing System Powder Flow Analyser Safety Options
Testing can be automated for linear or rotational sample presentation. (Order Code: PFA/PL)
For the measurement of powder flow properties, e.g. caking, cohesion,
flow speed dependence.
Safety Interlock
Cabinet
The TA.XTplus fits inside
CALogix * Extensometer * the cabinet and operates
CALogix provides cost-effective multi-loop control in many applications This device can be employed to measure absolute strain whilst testing. only when the door is safely
including plastics machines, automated control systems, analytical systems, A huge variety of third party models can be used to cover almost every shut. The internal curly
environmental chambers, ovens, kilns, furnaces, packaging equipment and type of test. cables replace the standard
many other temperature and process control applications. curly cable.
Relay Module 0-5V Input Channel (x2)
(Order codes: XT/RCU1 & XT/RCU2) User specified device, where device output is a voltage.
For the control of an external device that can be electrically operated. The
unit has connections for two voltage-free change-over contacts (XT/RCU2
has four) that are rated at 5A, 240V AC.
*Third party product not supplied by Stable Micro Systems
 EXPONENT LITE THE COMPLETE SERVICE
The Exponent Lite version of Exponent is well suited for simple texture analysis by offering flexibility and simplicity of use without loss of accuracy
BUILT-IN ADVICE & ASSISTANCE
or performance.
At Stable Micro Systems we do not just make texture analysers; we strive to provide you with the complete service. Through our continued co-operation with
Users at all levels will appreciate that minimum learning and training is required whilst providing all of the general capabilities to run tests quickly universities and research establishments involved in texture analysis, and our in-house applications laboratory and software department, we aim to provide you with
and efficiently to achieve maximum productivity. the most up to date applications information and to offer you the most comprehensive range of attachments and analytical techniques available.

Operationally, it is almost the same as Exponent but the complexity required by advanced users or necessary for sophisticated operation has been HELP

removed straightforward texture analysis! This section includes information on operation, data analysis, application studies, recommended probes

Exponent Lite is compatible with both TA.XTplus and TA.HDplus instruments. for testing, abstracts of published papers, an Introduction to Texture Analysis, test animations and an
extensive video library of tests.

PROBE GUIDE

Our existing range of probes and
THE COMPLETE SERVICE fixtures are shown and their set-up
and testing instructions explained
with links to relevant application
ON-LINE ADVICE & ASSISTANCE studies and video clips to
demonstrate the device in action.
Testing Advice Service

We would like to help you get the most from your Texture Analyser by enabling direct contact to our
application laboratory from which useful testing advice can be given free of charge. To enable us to
optimise testing guidelines specific to your product, fill in all of the fields on our Testing Advice Service
website form (within the User Support section) and click on Proceed. Questions about product testing
methods should be sent to app.support@stablemicrosystems.com

Software Troubleshooting

Often customers have a requirement to train new staff and, coupled with the fast advancement in
computers and their operating systems, customers find the need to call Stable Micro Systems for
technical advice. Our team of Software Development and Support engineers are available to troubleshoot APPLICATION STUDIES VIDEO CLIPS

software problems, provide registration codes and assist customers in the development of their required Test procedures and projects available A comprehensive
test sequences and analysis macros. If you wish to contact the software department by email they will to automatically download. collection of video
respond quickly from: tech.support@stablemicrosystems.com (for general software issues) and: clips demonstrating

registration@stablemicrosystems.com (for registration code request and related issues). TUTORIALS
certain tests and
These are written to guide new
fixture arrangements.
Macro/Sequence Writing Service

users through basic procedures

If you would like us to help you write a macro for Texture Expert Exceed or Exponent or a special of using the software step-by-
sequence for your TA.XTplus/TA.HDplus texture analyser then just fill in all of the fields on our website step. They can naturally be
form (within the User Support section) and click on Proceed. It would be useful if you could fax us a print printed out for ease of viewing.
of the curves you would like to analyse with the points of interest marked on. Ideally you should attach
.ARC files sing your standard e-mail package and send them to tech.support@stablemicrosystems.com
We may e-mail you for more details and finally we will return a .MAC (macro) or .seq (sequence) file by
e-mail for you to use.

SAMPLE FILES
For ease of testing, more
Software Versions and Recent Updates

than 180 product projects

The following software packages have updates available for download from our website within the
have been included
Software Download section:
Texture Expert Exceed these projects can also be
Exponent launched automatically
Dough Inflation System software from an application study PUBLISHED PAPERS
Application Help files of your choice within the Abstracts and citations of papers published that refer to the
Abstract Help file Help file section. use of Stable Micro Systems Texture Analysers.

10 11
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
TA.XTplus TA.HDplus

Force Capacity 50kg.f (500N) 750kg.f (7.5kN)

Force Resolution 0.1g 0.1g
Loadcells 1, 30, 50kg.f 5, 30, 50, 100, 250, 500, 750kg.f
Speed Range 0.01 40mm/s(20mm/s @ 3050kg.f) 0.01 20mm/s (13mm/s @ 500750kg.f)
Speed Accuracy Better than 0.1% Better than 0.1%
Range Setting 1 - 295mm 1 524mm
Extended Range Setting 1 - 545mm -
Range Resolution 0.001mm 0.001mm
Net weight 16.2 kg 37kg
Dimensions 665x440x280mm 980x390x300mm
Width Between Columns - 300mm
Loadcells Directly interchangeable by the user. Loadcells store Factory calibration and identification information in onboard non-volatile memory
Loadcell Accuracy 0.5% of reading down to 1% of Loadcell capacity
Data Channels Filtered force at 20bit
Distance at 24 bit
Unfiltered force at 16 bit
Two linear analogue inputs: (range +/- 4.5v @ 16 bit) or PT100 temperature probe inputs (range 50C to +250C)
Bi-phase digital encoder input at 24 bit suitable for any compatible linear or rotary extensometer
Data Acquisition Rate Up to 500 points per second (PPS) for each data channel
Filtered Force Oversampled at 8000 samples per second and digitally filtered to 500pps. at 20 bit resolution
External Instrumentation Channels Four channels of RS485
Each channel logs at one sample per ten seconds at 16 bit and is suitable for external sensing of temperature, humidity etc.
Operating Temperature 0 40C
Operating Environment Laboratory conditions. Dust and splash resistant
PC Interface Interface to PC through a standard RS232 serial port
Power supply Universal mains input voltage
Firmware updates FLASH update of firmware via PC

RECOMMENDED PC SPECIFICATION FOR EXPONENT SOFTWARE

1 GH3 CPU
1Gb RAM
1024 x 768 x 24 bit graphics
500Mb of free hard disc space (2Gb if video clips installed)
DVD/CD-ROM
Windows 95, 98, NT4, ME, 2000 or XP Home / XP Professional
RS 232 @ 115,200 Baud port (if connected to TA.XTplus)
Mouse
Sound card (optional)
Internet access for updating purposes (optional)
Printer (optional)

Stable Micro Systems

Vienna Court, Lammas Road, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1YL, UK

Tel: *44 1483 427345
Fax: *44 1483 427600
Email: sales@stablemicrosystems.com
app.support@stablemicrosystems.com
tech.support@stablemicrosystems.com
Web: http://www.stablemicrosystems.com

SMS/PLUS12/0807