Danatronics MTG-99 User manual

Ver: 1.1
User’s Guide
MTG-99 Hall Effect Gage

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Liability
Ultrasonic testing is a function of using the proper equipment (electronics, transducer,
cable and couplant combination) for the inspection and a qualified operator who knows
how to use this manual, the instruments and all calibration procedures. The improper use
of this equipment, along with the improper calibration can cause serious damage to
components, factories, facilities, personal injury, and even death. ALL DANATRONICS
GAGES ARE NOT INTRINSICALLY SAFE AND SHOULD NOT BE USED IN ANY
HAZEDOUS OR EXPLOSIVE AREAS.
It is understood that the operator of this equipment is a well trained inspector qualified by
either their own company or another outside agency per your internal Quality Control
Procedures. Danatronics, Corp. and any of its employees or representatives shall not be
held responsible for improper use of this equipment for its intended use.

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Table of Contents
Liability ....................................................................................................................................... 2
About the MTG-99 ..................................................................................................................... 5
Latest Software Updates .......................................................................................................... 5
1 Basic Gage Features .................................................................................................................. 6
Keypad Functions (order switched keypad is before setup) .... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Function Keys ............................................................................................................................ 7
Display Screen ............................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Battery Pack ............................................................................................................................... 7
Monitoring the Battery Charge from the Display Screen ........................................................ 7
Re-charging the Battery .......................................................................................................... 8
Using Non-rechargeable AA Batteries .................................................................................... 9
Boot, Bail, and Strap Features ............................................................................................... 10
Placing the Boot on the Gage ............................................................................................... 10
Removing the Boot from the Gage ....................................................................................... 10
Using the Boot Strap and Bail ............................................................................................... 10
Other Gage Features ............................................................................................................... 10
Locating the USB Slot .......................................................................................................... 10
Using the Accessory Mount .................................................................................................. 10
Locating the Altitude Change Release Regulator ................................................................. 10
2 Using Basic Gage Operations ................................................................................................. 11
Power on the Gage .................................................................................................................. 11
Selecting the Menu Option ..................................................................................................... 11
Performing a Reset ................................................................................................................. 12
Parameter Reset ................................................................................................................... 13
Database Reset .................................................................................................................... 12
Database/Parameter Reset .................................................................................................. 14
About Screen ........................................................................................................................... 15
3 Getting Started ......................................................................................................................... 17
Preparing the Gage and Probe .............................................................................................. 17
Selecting the Ball Size ............................................................................................................ 18
4 Calibrating the Gage ................................................................................................................ 18
Standard Calibration ............................................................................................................... 20
Quick Calibration (Q-Cal) ....................................................................................................... 25
4 Customizing Display Options .................................................................................................. 26
Backlight .................................................................................................................................. 25
Color ......................................................................................................................................... 26
Large Measurement ................................................................................................................ 28
5 Adjusting the Initial Settings ................................................................................................... 29
About ........................................................................................................................................ 29
Auto Off .................................................................................................................................... 30
Clock ......................................................................................................................................... 30
Language ................................................................................................................................. 31
General Lock ............................................................................................................................ 32
Advanced Locks ...................................................................................................................... 32
Options ..................................................................................................................................... 32
Reset ......................................................................................................................................... 33
Parameter Reset ................................................................................................................... 34
Database Reset .................................................................................................................... 35
Database/Parameter Reset .................................................................................................. 36

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Resolution ................................................................................................................................ 36
Units.......................................................................................................................................... 37
Beeper ...................................................................................................................................... 37
Vibrate ...................................................................................................................................... 38
6 Changing Measurement Options ............................................................................................ 40
Alarm ........................................................................................................................................ 40
Vibrating Alarm Display ......................................................................................................... 43
Average .................................................................................................................................... 45
Differential (Diff) ...................................................................................................................... 45
Display Rate ............................................................................................................................. 46
Min/Max .................................................................................................................................... 46
Strip Chart ................................................................................................................................ 47
Ball Size .................................................................................................................................... 48
7 Special Gage Functions ........................................................................................................... 47
Test ........................................................................................................................................... 47
Using the Freeze Option ......................................................................................................... 48
Advanced Locks ...................................................................................................................... 48
8 Datalogger/Comm ..................................................................................................................... 52
Working with the Datalogger Directory................................................................................. 53
Existing Datalogger File ......................................................................................................... 53
Creating a new Datalogger File .............................................................................................. 55
Reviewing a Datalogger File .................................................................................................. 59
Datalogger Media .................................................................................................................... 60
F1 Function .............................................................................................................................. 60
Output Format ......................................................................................................................... 61
Overwrite .................................................................................................................................. 61
Save .......................................................................................................................................... 61
Send .......................................................................................................................................... 62
Send Via ................................................................................................................................... 63
9 Hardware Options ..................................................................................................................... 63
Bluetooth .................................................................................................................................. 63
Footswitch ............................................................................................................................... 64
RS-232 ...................................................................................................................................... 65
10 DataXL ..................................................................................................................................... 65
Updating the MTG-99 .............................................................................................................. 65
Exporting Files from a Gage .................................................................................................. 66
11 Technical Specifications ........................................................................................................ 69
MTG-99 Product Specifications ............................................................................................. 69
Probe Specifications ............................................................................................................... 70
12 Technical Assistance ............................................................................................................. 71

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About the MTG-99 Series
The MTG-99 is designed for simple and easy non-destructive thickness measurements of
any non-ferrous material, less than .360” (9.144 mm) with access to both sides. Each
surface should be flat and parallel. Included in your kit should be the MTG-99 along
with the AC charger adapter, USB cable, internal re-chargeable Li Ion battery, Custom
rubber booth with stand, internal datalogger with 2 gb micro sd card memory, Probe
along with the calibration kit and shims.
Latest Software Updates
Danatronics periodically releases software updates with new and improved gage
functionality and features. You can download the latest standard software at no charge by
going to www.danatronics.com and clicking on the support tab. Use the most recent
version of Data XL, which is also available on the website to download at no charge, and
use the USB cable provided with the kit. Plug the cable into the USB port on the top left
of the MTG-99 and use the “Software Upgrade” tab to begin.

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1 Basic Gage Features
Keypad Functions
The figure below shows the full keypad layout representative of the MTG-99 Hall Effect
thickness gage.
The following table refers to each key or symbol shown on the keypad. Note the F keys
correspond to text above each key and prompts change depending on which screen you
are adjusting.
Key Function
Up arrow key
Down arrow key
Left arrow key
Right arrow key
On/Off symbol (under the F1 key)

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F1, F2, F3 and F4, these keys are called soft keys and correspond
to text above the keys while making adjustments in various
screens.
At the top of the unit is the probe connection, on the top right, mini
usb and optional footswitch or rs232. Also available as a hardware
option is internal Bluetooth to communicate via Bluetooth
(requires separate receive device).
Function Keys
Function keys, or F keys (e.g., F1, F2, F3, F4), have various gage functions and may
change depending on the display screen. View the bottom of the display screen for the
function that corresponds with the appropriate F key. For example, F1 may correspond
with the Save Thickness function, F2 with the Freeze function, or F3 with the Clear
MNMX (clear min/max) function. Many times the left or right arrow keys can be used
instead of the MENU/OK key to highlight a parameter or to see what is under the
selected choice.
Battery Pack
To ensure the highest level of performance and protection, the battery compartment is
separated from the electronic components of the gage.
Monitoring the Battery Charge from the Display Screen
The MTG-99 continuously displays the percentage of battery life remaining on the
bottom right corner of the measurement display screen. When the battery life is below
10%, the battery indicator will turn from green to red. When the battery life is below 5%,
the indicator will flash.
Note: Power off the MTG-99 series gage to ensure any saved data is stored internally.

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Re-charging the Battery
To re-charge the battery, simply plug in the charger to an AC outlet (between 100-240V)
and plug the other end into the USB connector on the top of MTG-99 gage. The F4 key
will light up with a blue LED when charging, and the light will go out when fully
charged. Allow several hours (up to 10 hours) to fully charge.
Note: There is a battery indication monitor on the bottom right of the screen showing the
percent of battery life, as seen below at 75%.
You may also use a computer instead of the wall charger to charge the gage, but this will
take significantly more time than using an AC outlet. If you decide to charge the gage

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using this method, make sure the gage is powered off before you connect the USB to the
computer and to the gage itself.
When charging is complete, the F4 key will appear translucent in color. Power off the
gage, and unplug the charger from the USB connector on the top of the gage.
Using Non-rechargeable AA Batteries
A non-rechargeable alkaline AA pack is also available. This option requires a spare tray
and 3 AA batteries. Follow these steps to insert non-rechargeable batteries:
1. Un-screw the battery door.
2. Disconnect the Li-Ion battery connector.
3. Plug in the AA tray connector.
4. Replace the battery door and tighten screws.
Note: When using the 3 AA battery tray, batteries cannot be re-charged.

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Boot, Bail, and Strap Features
The custom rubber boot with built in bail and 4-point chest harness is an accessory for the
MTG-99 gages. Not only does the boot help to protect the gage from the elements, but
the functional bail and strap also offers a variety of positioning options.
Placing the Boot on the Gage
To insert the gage into the rubber boot, follow these steps:
1. Guide the gage strap through the hole at the top of the boot (either right or left
side).
2. Slide the gage into the top of the boot.
3. Gently apply pressure to the bottom of the gage until it fully pops into the boot.
Removing the Boot from the Gage
Be sure that the bail is set in the open position before attempting to remove the boot.
Follow these steps:
1. Apply pressure to the bottom two corners of the boot until the gage pops out.
2. Wriggle the top section of the gage out of the boot.
3. Guide the gage strap through the hole at the top of the boot.
Using the Boot Strap and Bail
The boot strap is attached to the bail on the back of the boot. It can be used as a right- or
left-handed strap, or a finger strap. You can also connect the strap to a 4-point chest
harness for hands-free use.
The bail, including the straps, can be removed from the boot. This is useful when adding
accessories or locating the gage’s serial number. Simply open the bail and apply gentle
pressure to one side of the connector, which is located at the top of the bail. The piece
will pop off exposing the accessory mount (see below) and gage serial number.
Other Gage Features
Locating the USB Slot
MTG-99 gages are furnished with a USB 2.0 slot on the top of the gage. Use the USB
slot to connect AC chargers or to connect to a computer for cross-functionality.
Using the Accessory Mount
On the back of the gage is a ¼ x 20 accessory mount. This connector point is compatible
with a multitude of accessories including a magnetic pipe attachment and a Gorilla Pod.
Locating the Altitude Change Release Regulator
At the bottom of the gage is a circular outline with small holes. This feature regulates
pressure due to altitude change. Any pressure built up inside the gage will be
automatically released.

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2 Using Basic Gage Operations
Power on the Gage
To power on any of the MTG-99 gages, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold the F1 key for more than 3 seconds. The power symbol, as shown
below, is under the F1 key printed on the keypad.
2. The following screen will appear on the gage display. The MTG-99 requires 15
minutes for the probe and gage to warm up as their temperature aligns. To skip
this screen press F1 to go to the measurement screen or MENU/OK to go to the
Main menu
Note: Temperature plays an important roll in Hall Effect thickness gaging. It is
important to make sure the probe and gage warm up in the environment they will be
used in prior to calibrating and making measurements
Selecting the Menu Option
The gage offers several Menu options as shown below:
Power symbol
under the F1 key

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Use the up/down and left/right arrow keys to navigate around the menu. For a full
description of all the Menu options, refer to sections 3-8
Performing a Reset
You can reset the gage parameters back to the default settings by performing a gage reset.
Note: Performing a reset permanently deletes all of the saved parameters from the gage
and replaces the settings with default values.
Parameter Reset
Performing a Parameter Reset restores default parameters to the factory settings. To
perform a Parameter Reset, follow these steps:
To perform a parameter reset, follow these steps:
1. Press Menu/OK to enter the Main Menu.
2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Initial Settings.
3. Press the MENU/OK key.
4. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Reset.
5. Press the MENU/OK key
6. The Reset screen will then appear

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7. Select the Parameters option, and press the MENU/OK key. The following
screen appears:
8. Press the F2 – Yes key to reset all parameters in the gage back to default settings,
or press the F3 – No key to cancel a parameter reset.
Database Reset
Performing a Database Reset clears all the files in the database and keeps the first three:
Linear, Row Increment and Col Increment database files with cleared readings. All of the
user created files in the database will be cleared and deleted. To perform a Database
Reset, follow these steps:
To perform a Database reset, follow these steps:
1. Press Menu/OK to enter the Main Menu.
2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Initial Settings.
3. Press the MENU/OK key.
4. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Reset.
5. Press the MENU/OK key
6. The Reset screen will then appear

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7. Select the Database option, and press the MENU/OK key. The following screen
appears:
8. Press the F2 – Yes key to reset the database in the gage, or press the F3 – No key
to cancel a parameter reset.
Database/Parameter Reset
Performing a Database/Parameter Reset clears all the files in the database and keeps the
first three Linear, Row Increment and Col Increment database files with cleared readings.
All of the user created files in the database will be deleted and the default parameters will
be restored at the same time. This selection is the equivalent of performing MASTER
RESET on the instrument, restoring original factory setting. To perform a
Database/Parameter Reset, follow these steps:
1. Press Menu/OK to enter the Main Menu
2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Initial Settings.
3. Press the MENU/OK key.
4. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Reset.
5. Press the MENU/OK key to bring up the reset screen

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6. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Database/Parameter
7. You will be asked if you’re sure you want to reset your settings. Press the F2 -
Yes key to reset the database/parameters in the gage back to default settings, or
press the F3 – No key to cancel a database/parameter reset.
About Screen
You can find out information about your MTG-99 gage, such as the model number,
version number, and contact information from the gage’s About screen.
To go to the About Screen, follow these steps:
1. Press Menu/OK to enter the Main Menu.
2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Initial Settings.
3. Press the MENU/OK key.
4. Use the up and down arrow keys to select About.
5. Press the MENU/OK key to go to the about screen

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3 Getting Started
Note: It is very important to turn on the instrument and let it warm up for 15 minutes at
the temperature at which the unit is to be calibrated and also testing parts. It is also very
important that the temperature at the time of readings is stable. Otherwise, thermal drift
can occur and the need to Q-cal more often will be required.
Preparing the Gage and Probe
To begin, follow these steps:
1. Connect the two pieces of the probe stand and attach the coiled cable to the base
of the probe. Once the cable is attached to the probe, the probe can be inserted
into the stand. Use the white screw to secure the probe in place and attach the
end of the coiled cable to the top right of the MTG-99.
2. Connect the probe to the MTG-99 gage with the coiled cable via the connector on
top of the MTG-99
3. Press and hold the F1 - ON key to turn on the MTG-99. Pressing and holding the
F1 key also turns the gage off
4. Check the % battery life in the bottom right hand corner. If low, connect the USB
cable and charger to your MTG-99 using the USB port. The F4 key will light up
blue when charging and shut off when done charging
We recommend you allow your MTG-99 and probe (with nothing attached, ie a shim) to
warm up for 15 minutes in the same environment the inspection will be completed in.
This will allow the unit to reach equilibrium at this temperature. It is important to keep
the temperature constant; small changes in the probe temperature can affect the reading
and desired accuracy. If you are not able to wait 15 minutes, you can press the F1 key for

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SKIP and the MTG-99 will go into measurement mode. Note: If skip is pressed
calibrations may be less accurate and the operator may need to Q-Cal (with ball and shim
removed from probe) at a more regular basis.
On power up, the default unit type is inches; the resolution is set to auto which will
change from .001” to .0001” based on thickness range, and the display rate is set to 2 Hz.
These parameters can be changed within the Main Menu and are explained in more detail
in this manual. If the test piece is greater than .160” the unit will display in 3 digit
resolution in inches or 2 digits in mm. Units and resolution settings are found in the
initial settings menu; display rate is found under the measurement meu.
Selecting Ball Size
When selecting the ball size, “3/16” (0.360 MAX) is the default selection. You may
need to change this based on your application. It is recommended you use the largest
target ball size available for your thickness range.
Note: The target ball size used to calibrate the MTG-99 must be used for all readings
until the gage is calibrated to another target ball size.
The MTG 99 offers an expanded list of target options to greatly extend its measurement capability.
Targets Min Thickness Max Thickness Accuracy
PR-1 Basic Calibration Multipoint
1/16 in. (1.58 mm) ball
(TB-062)
0.0001 in. (0.001 mm) 0.080 in. (2.03 mm) 4% 3%
1/8 in. (3.17 mm) ball
(TB-125)
0.0001 in. (0.001 mm) 0.240 in. (6.1 mm) 4% 2%
3/16 in. (4.76 mm) ball
(TB-187)
0.0001 in. (0.001 mm) 0.360 in. (9.1 mm) 3% 1%

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To set the ball size on the MTG-99, follow these steps:
1. Press the Menu OK key to access the Main Menu
2. Scroll down to Measurements then press Menu Ok to select
3. In the Measurements Menu scroll down to ball size and use the right arrow to
toggle to the right size of the screen where the ball size is listed
4. Use the up and down arrows to highlight the desired ball size and press Menu Ok
to select.
5. Press F3 to go to the measurement screen or F1 to go back to the main menu
Note: The number in parenthesis is the maximum thickness for a given ball size. Shim
sizes may be slightly larger than the max value ie 0.241” vs 0.240”
3 Calibrating the Gage
The standard multipoint calibration should be completed every time the gage is being
used. It should be done after waiting 15 minutes for the gage and probe to warm up in
the environment in which they will be used. On thicker parts or if temperature changes
by more than 1-2 degrees F it is recommended to perform a Q-Cal. Q-Cal is used for
offset calibration during the measurement process to realign the calibration. We
recommend performing a Q-Cal every 15 minutes while the gage is in use.
Note: It is strongly recommended to do a Q-CAL every 15 minutes, particularly on parts
thicker than .080” or 2mm. The MTG 99 will detect temperature changes which will lead
to errors and prompt the user to press Q-cal either on the unit above F4 or on the side
of the probe.
View CAL Table

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Throughout the calibration process or while making measurements, you may need to reference
the CAL Table.
To view the current calibration table, follow these steps:
1. Press the MENU/OK key to access the Main Menu.
2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Calibration option.
3. Press the MENU/OK key.
4. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the VIEW CAL TABLE option.
5. Press the MENU/OK key to view the calibration table.
Calibration Table
Standard Calibration
The standard calibration process involves using the included calibration kit to take
readings with no ball, with the ball on sleeve and with at least two calibration points
representing the high and low values of your range. It is recommended that you use all
available calibration points within the range you will be measuring to ensure the greatest
accuracy

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Proper alignment of the target ball to the tip of the probe is critical for accurate readings.
Examples of good and poor ball alignment relative to the tip of the probe are shown
below and should occur only after the power up warm up time has been done and a
proper multi-point calibration performed
Note: Proper alignment of the target ball to the tip of the probe is critical for accurate
readings.
Note: The target ball size used to calibrate the MTG-99 must be used for all readings
until the gage is calibrated to another target ball size.
To begin the standard calibration, follow these steps:
1. Connect the probe to the coiled cable and attach to the gage prior to turning on
the gage
2. Power on the gage
3. Wait 15 minutes for the gage and probe to warm up following the timer on the
screen.
4. Press the MENU/OK key to access the Main Menu.
5. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Calibration option.
6. Press the MENU/OK key.
7. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Do Calibration option.