Extended CT Scanning Capability

Nikon Metrology has introduced Inspect-X 5.1, the latest release of the acquisition and control software for Nikon Metrology's range of X-ray and CT systems. With 5.1, Inspect-X now features X.Tend, a new CT acquisition method that enables users to scan taller samples with improved image quality. Accompanying the Inspect-X 5.1 release is the introduction of new high performance reconstruction workstations designed to provide enhanced reconstruction times.

"Scanning tall parts often causes a dilemma," said a company spokesperson. "Scan the full part with lower magnification, or scan sections of the sample at high resolution and stitch them back together with analysis software. In the first case, you will have lower resolution, losing some detail in the data, and in the latter it will take much longer to scan, reconstruct and stitch back together with visible stitching artifacts in the final data. In comparison to conventional circular CT scanning, X.Tend is a new acquisition method that allows customers to extend the height of their CT scan by moving the tall sample up through the X-ray cone beam as the sample rotates. X.Tend eliminates the need to have partial scans of a sample that are stitched back together afterwards. Also, where in circular scans the sample needs to be tilted to minimize cone beam effects, the sample can simply stand upright on the turntable with X.Tend, which makes the parts much easier to mount. X.Tend halves the total sample measuring and processing time while providing better image quality."

X.Tend is designed to improve the image quality of CT scans by removing cone beam artifacts, ring artifacts and stitching artifacts, all of which would be present during a circular scan. X.Tend also enables the user to scan a part close to the X-ray source, resulting in higher resolution voxel size. "The new X.Tend technique results in clearer, easy-to-interpret images and leaves no doubt in defect recognition, ultimately leading to faster decision making or corrective actions," said the spokesperson.

Nikon Metrology has also introduced new reconstruction workstations with completely new architecture and redesigned to exceed the performance requirements of modern X-ray CT. Five configurations of the workstations are available, allowing Nikon Metrology to deliver computing technologies within customers' budgets and requirements.

For more information contact:

Nikon Metrology, Inc.

12701 Grand River Rd.

Brighton, MI 48116

810-220-4360

sales.nm-us@nikon.com

www.nikonmetrology.com