Stable Micro Systems

THE
WORLD
STANDARD
FOR
TEXTURE
ANALYSIS
Food

Pharmaceuticals

Cosmetics

Personal Care

Adhesives

www.stablemicrosystems.com

WORLD STANDARD TEXTURE ANALYSERS

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
loadcell. All loadcells are factory calibrated but may also be user calibrated with any
weight up to the loadcell capacity to provide optimum accuracy at the force range
of specific interest.

philosophy has benefited over 5000 customers engaged in activities ranging from routine

product quality assurance to fundamental research. This philosophy has been enhanced in the plus

range, where many powerful analytical tools increase the instruments capability and yet reduce your
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
compression or tension. Information such as capacity, calibration and serial numbers
is stored within the loadcell and automatically detected upon installation. This makes
loadcell changing easy and quick and prevents potential user errors.

consumer products either in compression or in tension. The TA.XTplus and TA.HDplus Texture Analysers
assess textural properties by capturing force, distance and time data at a rate of up to 500 points per
second which is then displayed by fully integrated Exponent 32-bit software. These most powerful and
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
for sample location and testing.

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 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.

A minimum speed of 0.01mm/s permits accurately controlled approach for
precise location of the sample surface and the testing of thin or fragile samples.
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.
Totally programmable multi-stage testing facilities are offered so the
user can define individual test sequences. This unique control feature
enables the most complex test protocols to be established. As a
result, the Texture Analyser is not limited to fixed library tests.

Stable Micro Systems are the only Texture Analyser supplier to offer you:
In-house product testing and method development laboratory
Dedicated software
Direct liaison with universities and research institutions
The most comprehensive range of testing attachments available worldwide
Worldwide sales and service support
Stable Micro Systems advanced technology texture analysers are internationally recognised as the complete instrument with its unique
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

texture analyser arm.

dedicated Texture Analyser available today. A family of intelligent, factory calibrated loadcells down to 5kg
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.

See pages 4-7 for software explanations and options.

compromising accuracy whilst the twin column frame provides the required rigidity to accommodate
measurements of considerably higher force for heavy duty applications such as those shown below.

PERIPHERAL ATTACHMENTS

Tensile

Compression

Shear

Extrusion

Friction

3 Point Bend

Multi-channel data acquisition ports for plug-in peripherals have

been incorporated into the design. This allows for many other
measuring devices such as temperature and humidity modules to
be used in conjunction with the Texture Analyser and their data
simultaneously collected. See pages 8-9.

ELECTRONICS
Electronics (firmware and hardware) for control of the
Texture Analyser are housed in its base. New firmware
can be downloaded (flash upgraded) by a quick and
simple software interface so that new features can be
added to enhance the instruments capabilities. This
allows access to latest developments and improvements
after initial instrument installation.
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
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
has added data collection and analysis features and enhanced security options.

Stable Micro Systems recognises the need to constantly increase the capability of Exponent software by

The ability to collect data at high rate is particularly important

when testing products that fracture or require high speed separation such as during the testing of adhesives.
The data buffer is limited only by free memory of the PC. During testing, force, distance and time values and

1 CALIBRATION AND FORCE VERIFICATION

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

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
Y axes are also available. (Exponent only feature).

Check Force The value of

any weight placed on the

accuracy over the test range being used.

any weight up to the capacity of the loadcell installed in the Texture Analyser. This offers convenience and maximises

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
detection of inflection points.

Data Analysis Icons

2 INSTRUCTING & CONTROLLING THE TEXTURE ANALYSER

There are three options for specifying the test procedure.

calibrated accurately.

distance measurements.

calibration platform is

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 tool bar or minimised to only those required by the user via the

Data Analysis

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
Texture Analyser tests
are included from which simple or enhanced versions are available for selection. A TA Settings

components required to initiate a complete test and analysis procedure and is the

Customisable Toolbar option.

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

be automated with either simple or intricate macros

which are ideally suited to a production environment. Tabbed windows for groups of commands provides simplified listings that
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
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

written to accommodate sophisticated arm movement requirements, data capturing

options and control of peripheral measurements such as temperature modules.

This window tabulates results in customised spreadsheet format.

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.

positioning pre-or post-testing. Live force and position information is also displayed.

Exporting Data

The arm of the texture analyser can be moved up or down at any speed by simply

probe positions/forces can be programmed and directly recalled for quick probe

Result Window

Rows and columns can be added to manipulate data using either

Probe Control

*Exponent only feature

5 MANAGING RESULTS

programming of the Texture Analyser arm movement. New test sequences can be

Macro Samples

required for the test procedure. Advanced features within a test can be hidden for simplification. All

Spreadsheets, text or images can be exported to other Windows applications for further specific manipulation/presentation.

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

Users requiring additional synchronised data measurements, such as temperature or acoustics, with traditional texture analysis data

management.
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
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.
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.

Reports are automatically generated from active objects

and fields when a report template file is open. A Spell
Checker, Thesaurus, support for tables and OLE objects

are also included.

Option to disable a user account or temporarily prevent it from being used.

Option to give individual users rights to verify actions such as calibrations.
Ability to log Check Force results with independent user verification.

SPECIAL FEATURES
Sax Basic Macro Language

User Configurable Shortcut Keys

are available for immediate use and quick interpretation.

ADVANCED DATA ANALYSIS

Full debug facilities including breakpoints, single step, step over etc. Access to advanced Exponent

you want to obtain them.

data and commands.

User Configurable Tools Menu

Enables quick access to features that you want and how

Language Editor

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
This offers an interface for easy integration into many programming

Workspaces

languages allowing total automation within a bespoke system.

For saving window layouts in the preferred configuration.

User-selectable tools layout as seen in other 32-bit

Windows programs.

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

should any error have occurred in the user sequence programming.

Test Maker

Sequence Debugging Facility

Dockable & Customisable Toolbars

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.

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

Connected to: RS485

Connected to:

EXP (Auxiliary port)

Temperature Module

Acoustic Envelope Detector:

(Order Code: FIT/MOD)

The module measures and plots product temperature over the range
-50C to +250C. It has a fast response time and a sensor accuracy of
0.35C over the standard working temperature range. It can be easily
cleaned and sterilised without degrading performance.

Reference

Temperature & Humidity Module

Milliohmeter

(Order Code: FIHT2/MOD)

The Hygroclip is a product designed according to International Standards.
It has an operating range of 0-100%RH (relative humidity) and -30C to
+100C. Accuracy at 23C is 1.5%RH and 0.3C. Given the size of this
probe it is more suited for insertion into current Stable Micro Systems
temperature units.

(Order code: A/OHM1,2,3)

For the measurement of electrical resistance over the ranges 0-2 and
0-20ohms (A/OHM1), 0-200 and 0-2000ohms (A/OHM2), 0-2000 and
0-20000ohms (A/OHM3)

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.

(Order code: A/RAED)

A/RAED enables measurement of absolute acoustic levels calibrated to
National Standards. Includes reference acoustic calibration source to
National Standards.

Indexing System

Powder Flow Analyser

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.

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.

Connected to:

Loadcell
Dough Inflation
System
(Order Code: DR/DISPL)
Complete system for the
measurement of bi-axial
extension properties of dough.
Force, Distance and Speeds are
converted to Pressure, Volume
and Flow Rates.

Operational
Safety Options
Safety Interlock
Cabinet

CALogix *

Extensometer *

CALogix provides cost-effective multi-loop control in many applications

including plastics machines, automated control systems, analytical systems,
environmental chambers, ovens, kilns, furnaces, packaging equipment and
many other temperature and process control applications.

This device can be employed to measure absolute strain whilst testing.

A huge variety of third party models can be used to cover almost every
type of test.

Relay Module

0-5V Input Channel (x2)

(Order codes: XT/RCU1 & XT/RCU2)

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.

User specified device, where device output is a voltage.

The TA.XTplus fits inside

the cabinet and operates
only when the door is safely
shut. The internal curly
cables replace the standard
curly cable.

*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
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

Users at all levels will appreciate that minimum learning and training is required whilst providing all of the general capabilities to run tests quickly

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

HELP

PROBE GUIDE

extensive video library of tests.

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

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

VIDEO CLIPS

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

Macro/Sequence Writing Service

fixture arrangements.

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

e-mail for you to use.

Software Versions and Recent Updates

The following software packages have updates available for download from our website within the
Software Download section:

10

We may e-mail you for more details and finally we will return a .MAC (macro) or .seq (sequence) file by

SAMPLE FILES

For ease of testing, more

than 180 product projects
have been included

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.

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