TL;DR
Data storage faults during an inspection can result in lost scan data for aerospace records. Back up completed scans to external media before any instrument shutdown or software update.
What you might see
- instrument shows storage full warning during a scan
- saved scan file cannot be opened or is corrupt
- instrument freezes during file save operation
- external USB storage device not recognized
Likely causes
Internal storage near capacity from accumulated scan files
External USB storage device not formatted to the instrument-compatible file system
Corrupt scan file from interrupted save operation during battery changeover
Instrument firmware bug affecting file handling (addressable via firmware update)
Required tools
- External USB drive (FAT32 format)
- GE Waygate data review software on a PC
Safety first
- For aerospace inspection records, all scan data files must be retained per the applicable quality standard. Confirm backup and verify the file opens correctly before deleting any original.
- Do not apply firmware updates to the field instrument during an active inspection campaign. Complete the campaign and validate the update in a test environment first.
Procedure
- 1
Check the available internal storage on the instrument before starting a new inspection session. Transfer completed scan files to external media if below 20 percent available.[1]
- 2
Verify the external USB drive is formatted to FAT32 or the format specified in the Phasor XS / DXR operator manual before use in the field.[1]
- 3
If a scan file appears corrupt, do not overwrite the file. Transfer the raw data file to a PC and attempt to open with the GE Waygate data review software.
- 4
For an interrupted save, check the instrument temp file directory. Many instruments save a recovery copy in a separate temp location.
- 5
If the instrument freezes during a file save, perform a controlled restart (hold power button for 10 seconds if forced restart is required). Restart does not typically corrupt previously saved files.
- 6
Check the GE Waygate software portal for firmware updates if file handling issues are recurring. Apply firmware updates per the update procedure in a non-production environment first.
Sources
GE Waygate Technologies Waygate Phasor XS / DXR NDT Equipment (UT / X-ray / CT) general technical documentation, GE Waygate Technologies
GE Waygate Phasor XS / DXR operator manual, data management and file storage procedures (general)
More guides for GE Waygate Technologies Waygate Phasor XS / DXR
How to fix battery and power faults on a GE Waygate Phasor XS / DXR phased array UT instrument
Battery faults interrupt an inspection and can cause data loss. If the instrument shuts off unexpectedly, check the battery charge level and the DC power connection before suspecting an internal fault.
How to diagnose probe sensitivity drift on a GE Waygate Phasor XS / DXR phased array UT instrument
Sensitivity drift means calibration blocks are showing amplitude changes that were not present before. Perform a full calibration with a certified reference block and check probe connector condition before conducting any aerospace inspections.
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