In this video, you will learn how to use the Texture Analyzer TA-XTplus according to the standard operating procedures.
This is the Texture Analyzer TA-XTplus
To turn on the instrument flip the switch located in the left back corner to the on position
Next turn on the computer and open the exponent software
Close the help screen
before you start testing you need to first calibrate the instrument
to do this attach the probe that you would like to use for your experiment and then start the calibration
Information on the features of different probes can be found in the texture analysis applications directory
First go to the TA tab on the top panel
from the calibration menu select calibrate force, follow the instructions and click on next
In this step you will need to use a calibration weight
Enter the calibration weight value in Grams and then place the weight on the calibration platform
Click next and wait until the calibration is complete
When it's finished click on finish and remove the weight
go to the TA tab and again click calibrate, this time select calibrate height
a probe height calibration screen will pop up, click ok, the probe will be lowered until it touches the
platform and then come back up
When the calibration is complete move on to the next step
You can always change your probe
by click on the TA tab and then move probe, but always remember to calibrate the probe height after moving the probe
To adjust the settings of the texture analyzer go to the TA tab and select TA settings
on the settings screen click on library and choose a TA sequence appropriate for your experiment
Here we will use return to start, click ok, then adjust TA settings as you desire
Click ok
Also, make sure you use the right platform depending on the type of probe
you're using based on your chosen test
you can also refer to texture analysis applications directory for details on platform selection
Now you're ready to run your tests, load your sample on the platform and click on the TA tab on the computer
Select run a test
Name your test and choose the folder you want to save your results to, click start test and the instrument will start running
After your test is complete a results graph will appear on the screen
For rapid calculation of your data go to the process data tab and select quick calculation
From the list check off any calculations you want and click ok, the calculated results will automatically appear
to save your test results click on file and save as
Create a folder with your course name and group number and save all your files there
After you're finished with your experiment clean up the benchtop turn off the computer and the instrument
Thank you for watching