DeFelsko PosiTector BHI User manual

Full Guide v. 1.0
Barcol Hardness Impressor

Test disks should be replaced
when they become worn or visibly pitted.
Verify accuracy (pg. 3) on test disks at the beginning and the end of
each shift, or if the gage is dropped or suspected of giving erroneous
readings. Be sure to place the leg on the included leveling plate when
testing disks to maintain perpendicularity.
1
Introduction
Introduction
The PosiTector Barcol Hardness Impressor (BHI) is a hand-held
electronic instrument that measures the indentation hardness of soft
metals (aluminum, copper, brass), harder plastics and fiberglass. It
consists of a PosiTector body (Standard or Advanced) and an
interchangeable probe.
This Quick Guide summarizes the basic functions of the gage.
Download the full instruction manual at www.defelsko.com/manuals
Quick Start
Quick Start
The PosiTector BHI powers-up when the center navigation
button is pressed. To preserve battery life, the Gage powers-down
after approximately 5 minutes of no activity. All settings are retained.
1.Power-up the Gage by pressing the center navigation button.
Ensure the probe indentor (pg. 2) is not in contact with any
surface.
2.To take a measurement:
a) Ensure the probe is perpendicular to the surface being tested.
Press the probe down onto the material to be measured until the
indentor foot is in full, flat contact with the surface. HOLD STEADY
against the surface.
b) The Gage will emit a single BEEP and display a ▼ symbol
indicating a reading is being taken. The test timer will begin
counting down (see Test Time, pg. 7). When the timer reaches 0s,
the Gage will BEEP twice and display the measurement value.
3.Lift the probe from the surface between readings.
IMPORTANT:

When powered-up, the PosiTector automatically determines which
probe is attached and does a self-check.
To disconnect a probe from a body, slide the plastic probe
connector horizontally (in the direction of the arrow) away
from the body. Reverse these steps to attach a different
probe. It is not necessary to power-down the Gage when
switching probes.
The PosiTector gage body accepts a wide variety of probe
types including magnetic, eddy-current and ultrasonic coating
thickness, surface profile, environmental, hardness, salt
contamination and ultrasonic wall thickness probes.
See www.defelsko.com/probes
The PosiTector BHI consists of the PosiTector
BHI probe, Standard or Advanced gage body,
leveling plate, test disks (2), replacement indentor,
replacement indentor tool, glass plate, calibration
certificate, protective rubber holster with belt clip,
wrist strap, 3 AAA alkaline batteries, instructions,
protective lens shield, convenient hard shell
carrying case, USB cable, PosiSoft Software, and
two (2) year warranty.
2
Probes
Probes
To navigate, use the Up and Down buttons to scroll vertically and
to SELECT.
Menu Operation
Menu Operation
Gage functions are menu controlled. To access the Menu, power-up
the gage, then press the center navigation button.
Previous Page
(Exit) Up Next Page
Access the Menu
(Center/Select)
Down
Press the (+) button to switch
pages in a multipage menu.
Press the (-) button to return to
the previous menu or page.
Select Exit to exit from any
menu.
Indentor
Indentor Foot
Sleeve

Calibration, Verification and Adjustment
Calibration, Verification and Adjustment
Three steps ensure best accuracy…
1. Calibration - typically performed by the manufacturer. All probes
include a Certificate of Calibration.
2. Verification of Accuracy - typically performed by the user on
known reference standards such as the included test disk.
3. Adjustment - to a known hardness
Calibration
Calibration is the high-level, controlled and documented process of
measuring traceable calibration standards over the full operating
range of the probe, and verifying that the results are within the stated
accuracy of the probe. Calibrations are performed by the
manufacturer, their authorized agent, or by an accredited calibration
laboratory in a controlled environment using a documented process.
Verification
Verification is an accuracy check performed by the user on known
reference standards. A successful verification requires the Gage to
read within the combined accuracy of the probe and the Test Disks.
Instrument operation may be verified with the included Test Disks and
Leveling Plate. Position the Leveling Plate under the Leg and place the
Test Disks on a flat, hard surface (as shown). Take three to five
readings on each disk. The measurement points should be at least
6mm (0.24”) apart. If the average of those readings is outside the
combined accuracy of the Test Disk and gage, service may be
required.
Test Disk
Leveling
Plate
Leg
Sleeve
3

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1. Select from the menu.
2. Press the (+)button to select the number of readings
3. Measure on the glass plate, ensuring that both the indentor
foot and leg are resting on the glass plate. After the last
measurement, the Gage will calculate a Zero which
represents the average of all the Zero readings taken.
Zero
Zeroing the Gage may be necessary after indentor replacement
or when the indentor is worn. For best accuracy, the Gage
should be zeroed on the included glass plate.
Zero
Cal Settings Menu
Cal Settings Menu
The PosiTector BHI is factory calibrated and for most applications
no calibration adjustment is required. However, there may be times
when a zero, one or two point adjustment is necessary including
after indentor replacement or to compensate for indentor wear.
Some causes for the gage to not read properly are the indentor being
damaged, incorrect pressure being applied to the test disk or
temperatures beyond normal conditions.
Verify accuracy at the beginning and the end of each work shift. During
the work shift, if the Gage is dropped or suspected of giving erroneous
readings, its accuracy should be re-verified.
Adjustment
Adjustment, or Calibration Adjustment, is the act of aligning the Gage’s
readings to match that of a known reference in order to improve
accuracy of a gage on a specific material. (see Cal Settings, pg. 4)

5
Adjusts the Gage to a known material hardness.
Step 1: Select 1 Pt Adjust from the Cal Settings menu.
Step 2: Press the (+) button to select the number of readings to
be used to obtain an average, typically 3 to 10 readings. The
greater the variation between readings, the more readings should
be taken to obtain an average.
Step 3: Repeatedly measure the known hardness sample using
the on-screen green arrows as a guide. After the final reading,
the Gage will calculate and display an average measurement
value of all readings taken on the sample. If the expected
hardness value is not obtained (within tolerance), adjust the
displayed value up (+) or down (-) to the known hardness value
and press to save the value.
1 Pt Adjust
2 Pt Adjust
Adjusts the Gage within a range of two material hardnesses.
Step 1: Select 2 Pt Adjust from the Cal Settings menu.
Step 2: Press the (+) button to select the number of readings to
be used to obtain an average for the first point, typically 3 to 10
readings.
Step 3: Repeatedly measure the known hardness sample using
the on-screen green arrows as a guide. After the final reading,
the Gage will calculate and display an average measurement
value of all readings taken on the sample.
Step 4: Repeat Step 2 and 3 for second point.

6
Reset (menu reset) restores factory settings and returns the
Gage to a known condition. The following occurs:
- All batches, stored measurements, batch names and screen
captures are erased.
- Calibration adjustments are returned to factory settings.
- Menu settings are returned to the following:
Reset
Memory = OFF
Auto Sub-Batch = OFF
Statistics = OFF
Hi Lo Alarm = OFF
Bluetooth & Stream = OFF
WiFi & Access Point = OFF
Auto Dim = ON
Hi Res = OFF
Date, Time and WiFi settings are not affected by either Reset.
Bluetooth Smart = OFF
Test Time = 1 second
Sound = ON
Backlight = Normal
Flip Display = Normal
Auto Sync .net = ON
USB Drive= ON
Language = English
Battery Type = Alkaline
- Bluetooth Pairing info is cleared.
- Menu settings are returned to the following status:
Setup Menu
Setup Menu
NOTE:
Perform a more thorough Hard Reset as follows:
1.Power down the Gage and wait 5 seconds.
2.Simultaneously press and hold the (+) and center buttons
until the Reset symbol appears.
This returns the Gage to a known, “out-of-the-box” condition.
It performs the same function as a menu Reset with the addition of:

7
Selects the type of batteries used in the Gage from a choice of
“Alkaline”, “Lithium” or “NiMH” (nickel-metal hydride
rechargeable). If “NiMH” is selected, the Gage will trickle charge
the batteries while connected via USB to a PC or optional AC
power supply (USBAC). The battery state indicator symbol is
calibrated for the selected battery type. No damage will occur if the
battery type used in the Gage does not match the selected battery
type.
Battery Type
Increases the displayed resolution. Accuracy is not affected.
Hi Res
Cont. Reading
When enabled, the Gage will continuously display probe readings.
Ideal when a test timer is not required or when performing a
calibration verification. Cont. Reading is not available when
Memory, Statistics or HiLo Alarm modes are enabled.
(Continuous Reading)
Test Time
The PosiTector BHI has an on-screen timer to measure the
hardness of a material after a given period of time.
Use the (-) and (+) buttons to adjust the test duration. When
taking a reading, the timer starts automatically once the indentor
is on the surface and the ▼ symbol appears on the display.
Increases the displayed Gage resolution as follows:
Hi Res ü
Gage accuracy is not affected.
NOTE:
Selects display brightness (Sun, Normal or Night). All settings will
dim slightly after a period of no activity to conserve battery life.
Press the Down button to brighten the display.
Backlight
Resolution Range
0.1 Barcol 20.0 - 100.0 Barcol

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Statistics Mode
Statistics Mode
A statistical summary will appear on the display. Remove the last
reading by pressing the (-) button. Press (+) to clear statistics.
Statistics
HiLo Alarm
Allows Gage to visibly and audibly alert the user when readings
exceed user-specified limits.
Average
Maximum Value
Standard Deviation
Minimum Value
All measurements are date and time stamped (24 hour format)
when stored into memory. It is therefore important to keep both the
date and time current using this menu option. Use the Up and
Down buttons to scroll, and the (-) and (+) buttons to adjust a
value. The Gage’s data and time can also be viewed in Gage Info
(see below).
Set Clock
Flip Display
This option causes the display to rotate 180°. Ideal for right-side-
up viewing when the sensors are pointed away from the user.
Converts displayed and printed words to the selected language.
Language
Gage Info
Displays the model number & serial number, probe type & serial
number, PosiSoft.net registration key, the amount of remaining
memory for storage of readings, date and time, and software
packages.
For security purposes, the registration key is required to add the
Gage to your free PosiSoft.net account.

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The PosiTector BHI has internal memory storage for recording
measurement data. Stored measurements can be reviewed on-
screen or accessed via computers, tablets and smart phones. All
stored measurements are date and time-stamped.
Standard models store up to 250 readings in one batch.
Memory Management
Memory Management
The symbol appears when the Gage is set to store measurement
data.
On:turns memory on and begins recording
Off: stops recording (stored readings remain in memory)
Clear:removes all readings from memory
View:lists group statistics and all stored readings on the dis-
play. It will begin by showing statistics based on all readings in
memory. Use the Up and Down buttons to scroll through all
readings. Press to exit.
Mean
(average)
Standard Deviation
# of readings
in memory
Minimum
measurement
Last
reading
Maximum
measurement
Standard model display with Memory ON shows measurement
statistics:

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Advanced models store 100,000 readings in up to 1,000
batches. “New Batch” closes any currently opened batch and
creates a new batch name using the lowest available number.
New batch names are date-stamped when they are created.
New Batch
Closes any currently opened batch and creates a new batch name
using the lowest available number. For example, if only Batch 1
and Batch 3 exist, then Batch 2 would be created and made the
current batch. Each measurement will be displayed and stored into
this new batch. On screen statistics are immediately updated with
each measurement. New batch names are date stamped at the
time they are created.
Shortcut: When a batch is open, press (+) to create a new batch
current batch
Last reading
# readings in current batch
Remove the last reading from the current open batch by• pressing (-).
Calibration adjustments cannot be made if readings are• stored in memory.
NOTES:
Maximum
measurement
Standard Deviation
Minimum
measurement
Mean (average)

11
This option will automatically create a new sub-batch after the
required number of readings are stored in the current sub-batch.
Use the (-) and (+) buttons to set the number of readings to store
in each sub-batch, then select New to open the first sub-batch.
Auto Sub-Batch (Advanced models only)
current batch
current sub-batch
statistics
(see pg. 8)
current reading
# of sub-batches in
current batch
microns
B2
71.3 1.5
s=3
s3 n5
72.4
74 72
x
↨
σ
↨
x
72
0.9
σ
# readings in current
sub-batch
When a sub-batch is open, create a new sub-batch by
pressing (+)
Shortcut:
In the following example, B2s2 is a sub-batch of Batch 2.
Sub-batching allows the user to group related batches so that
statistics can be accumulated for them. Batch 2 contains the
statistics for B2s1 and B2s2.
New Sub-Batch (appears only f a batch s currently open)
Creates a new sub-batch within the currently opened batch.
Open
Selects a previously created batch or sub-batch name to open and
make current. If it contains measurements, on-screen statistics will
immediately reflect values calculated from this batch.
A solid triangle is displayed to the right of the batch
name when sub-batches are present. Press to view
sub-batches. This also applies to the Delete, V ew and Pr nt
options.
NOTE:
Close
Stops the recording process, closes the current batch, and
removes batch information from the display.

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Sends a statistical summary and individual measurements to the
optional Bluetooth wireless printer.
Print
To cancel printing, press and hold the (-) and (+) buttons
simultaneously
NOTE:
Annotate
Create meaningful batch names and
enter notes directly on the Gage using a
familiar onscreen QWERTY
keyboard.
Use the Gages navigation and (-)(+)
buttons to enter annotations.
Annotations can be synchronized with
PosiSoft.net and the PosiTector App and
are included in PosiSoft USB Drive
reports.
(Advanced models only)
Delete
Removes a batch or sub-batch completely from memory.
The name is deleted and all measurements are erased.
Sub-batches can be deleted individually. To delete all related
sub-batches, simply delete the top-level batch.
View
Scroll using the Up or Down buttons through information,
statistical summary, and a list of each reading in the currently
opened batch. Press to exit.

Notes: Instructions, descriptions or notes (see Annotate, pg.12)
None: Default screen shows statistics
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The following user selectable display options are available:
Display (appears only f a batch s currently open)
Chart:A real-time chart of batch readings
x-y Chart for
Single Layer Application
When a batch is open, press Up to scroll through the
above display options.
Shortcut:

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PosiSoft.net and the PosiTector App are used to insert an•
Image and Notes into a batch.
Remove the last reading from the current open batch by•
pressing (-).
Calibration adjustments cannot be made if any measurements•
were taken with that setting and stored into a batch.
If memory is ON while continuous measurements are being•
taken, only the last value on the display (when the probe is
lifted) is stored into memory. Scan Mode stores ALL
measurements into memory (pg. 9).
Each batch can contain a maximum of 10,000 readings.•
NOTES:
Sample Screen Captures
Summaries
(Advanced models only)
Displays a summary of all stored
batches including the name, probe
type, number of readings and type.
In the following example, Batch 3
(B3) indicates an “F” 6000 coating
thickness probe was used to record a
total of “6” readings in “PA2” mode.
Screen Capture
Press both the (-) and (+) buttons at any time to capture and
save an image copy of the current display. The last 10 screen
captures are stored in memory and can be accessed when
connected to a computer (see PosiSoft USB Drive, pg. 18).

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Accessing Stored Measurement Data
Accessing Stored Measurement Data
DeFelsko offers the following free solutions for viewing, analyzing
and reporting data:
PosiSoft USB Drive - Connect the Gage to a PC/Mac using the
supplied USB cable. View and print readings and graphs using
universal PC/Mac web browsers or file explorers. No software or
internet connection required. USB Drive must be selected in the
Gage’s “Connect > USB” menu (pg. 18).
PosiSoft Desktop - Powerful desktop software (PC/Mac) for
downloading, viewing, printing and storing measurement data.
Includes a customizable, templated PDF Report Generator. No
internet connection required.
PosiSoft.net - Web-based application offering secure, centralized
storage of measurement data. Access your data from any web-
connected device.
PosiTector App - (Advanced models only, seral numbers 784000+)
App for compatible iOS and Android smart devices. Permits users
to create, save and share professional PDF reports. Add images
and notes using the smart device’s camera and keyboard.
For more information on our PosiSoft solutions, see:
www.defelsko.com/posisoft
The PosiTector BHI includes an
indentor tip precisely machined with a
26° angled tip. Visually inspect the tip
for damage at the beginning of each
work shift or if the gage is dropped or
suspected of giving erroneous
readings.
If the indentor becomes worn or damaged, a replacement indentor
is included. Using the enclosed indentor replacement tool,
unscrew the damaged indentor and replace. Tighten the new
indentor and verify gage operation (pg. 3) before testing. A ZERO,
1 Pt or 2 Pt Cal Adjust may be required (pg. 4 and 5).
Maintenance
Maintenance
Indentor and Replacement Tool

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Connect Menu
Allows connection to your local wireless network or mobile
hot spot. Ideal for using your network’s internet connection for
synchronizing stored measurements with PosiSoft.net (pg. 15).
See www.defelsko.com/wifi
WiFi (Advanced models only)
Turns WiFi functionality ON. When selected, the icon will
appear on the display. To deactivate WiFi, uncheck the Enable
box.
Enable ü
Connect your smart device/computer to a PosiTector Advanced
body wirelessly without the need for a separate network.
Wirelessly import readings into PosiSoft Desktop v4.0 Software
whenever a WiFi network is not available or out-of-range.
To enable, select Access Point from the Connect > WiFi menu.
The Access Point icon will display in the upper left of the
PosiTector display.
Securing your Access Point -
To ensure the PosiTector is only accessible to authorized devices,
it is important that you enter a passphrase (password) for the
Access Point. The default Passphrase is password.
In the Connect > WiFi > Setup menu, select AP Passphrase.
Press button to display on-screen keyboard. Enter a
Passphrase for the Access Point. The Passphrase will be required
for all devices connecting to the PosiTectors Access Point.
Access Point ü

17
The PosiTector is now visible to all WiFi enabled devices. Simply connect
your devices WiFi to the new PosiTector Access point. All PosiTectors are
uniquely identified by their respective gage body serial numbers.
AP Channel - Default Channel: 6
For most users the default channel will not have to be altered. If you are
experiencing poor connection or are unable to connect, try another channel.
In the Connect > WiFi > Setup menu, select AP Channel.
Press the UP center navigation button to highlight the channel. Use the (-)
or (+) buttons to change the channel. Press the DOWN navigation button
and select OK. Press the button.
Networks: With WiFi Enabled (pg. 18) the Gage will allow the user to add a
new network and will automatically check for available local networks.
Available networks detected by the Gage are listed on the screen along with
any networks that the Gage has previously been connected to that are not
currently within connection range.
Information: Gage displays information about the local WiFi network
connection including...
• SSID: the network’s name
• State: displays if the Gage is connected to the network or not
• IP Address: the network’s IP Address
Setup: Allows user to setup a WiFi connection
• IP Settings: enter the IP information as follows...
IP Type (DHCP or Static), IP Address,
Gateway, Netmask, DNS1, DNS2
• Server Enable: enables a connection between the network and the Gage
• Gage Name: enter a name for the Gage (up to 14 Characters).
AP Channel: The access point channel corresponding to a frequency range. (Default
Channel: 6)
AP Passphrase: A series of characters, numbers or symbols used to log on to a WiFi
network. (Default Passphrase: password)
• WiFi Reset: erases all WiFi settings

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When connected, power is supplied through the
USB cable. The batteries are not used and the body will not
automatically power down. If rechargeable (NiMH) batteries
are installed, the instrument will trickle charge the batteries.
NOTE:
USB
Stream
For more information on USB Keyboard and Streaming
visit: defelsko.com/usb/stream/
NOTE:
(Advanced models only,
ser al numbers 784000 and greater)
Stream individual readings to a USB connected computer via a
serial protocol. Ideal for use with serial compatible SPC data
collection software.
When USB Drive is checked , the PosiTector gage uses a
USB mass storage device class which provides users with a
simple interface to retrieve stored data in a manner similar to
USB flash drives, digital cameras and digital audio players.
USB Drive is also required to import stored measurements into
PosiSoft Desktop software (pg.15). Once connected, any
computer can view measurements stored in memory by
navigating a virtual drive labeled "PosiTector” using the included
USB cable.
A formatted HTML report is viewed by selecting the "index.html"
or “START_HERE.html” file found in the root directory. Optionally,
text ".txt" files located in each batch folder provide access to
measurement values. Stored datasets and graphs can be viewed
or copied using universal PC/Mac web browsers or file explorers.
When your PosiTector is first connected to your Windows PC
via a USB cable, an enumeration process is started that installs
device drivers without re-booting your computer. You may see
several pop-up windows in the taskbar at the bottom right of your
screen. Wait for the entire process to be completed before
proceeding.
Retrieving stored screen captures:
The last 10 screen captures stored in memory can be accessed by navi-
gating to the “screen capture” directory within the “PosiTector” virtual drive.
NOTE: When connected, power is supplied through the USB cable. The
batteries are not used and the body will not automatically power down. If
rechargeable (NiMH) batteries are installed, the instrument will trickle
charge the batteries.

19
The above WiFi,USB and Bluetooth menus contain a Sync .net
Now option. When selected, the Gage immediately synchronizes
stored measurement data via its respective communication
method (internet connection required). Alternatively, select Auto
Sync .net from within the USB connect menu to automatically
synchroniz e upon connection to a PC. Additional measurements
added to memory while connected are synchronized only when
the USB cable is disconnected and reconnected, or when the
Sync.net Now option is selected. WiFi connected gages
automatically attempt synchronization upon power-up.
Sync .net Now
PosiSoft Desktop is required when using USB
connections to synchronize measurements with PosiSoft.net.
NOTE:
Bluetooth (Advanced models only)
Allows individual readings to be sent to a computer, printer or
compatible device as they are taken using Bluetooth wireless
technology. See www.defelsko.com/bluetooth
Pairing
The instrument and receiving device must be paired before
stored or streamed datasets can be transmitted. For pairing
instructions, see http://www.defelsko.com/bluetooth
Info
Lists information about your current Bluetooth connection, includ-
ing the currently paired device and MAC address.
Stream
When checked, the instrument will stream datasets to the paired
Bluetooth Device as they are taken. Datasets can be streamed
as they are taken to the optional Bluetooth printer or third-party
computer software.
Powder Probes
Displays menu options that enable the PosiTector Advanced body
to communicate with wireless PosiTector PC probes. See
http://www.defelsko.com/pc