Full Matrix Capture (FMC)

FMC is an ultrasonic data acquisition mode in which every element of a phased-array probe transmits in turn while all elements receive, producing a complete matrix of A-scans that can be post-processed using TFM and other algorithms.

Definition

Full Matrix Capture (FMC) acquires a full matrix of N×N A-scans from an N-element phased-array probe by firing one element at a time while receiving on all elements. The resulting dataset contains every possible transmit-receive combination, supporting post-processing techniques such as TFM, plane-wave imaging, and adaptive imaging.

Technical Context

FMC files are large; modern instruments compress and stream them. FMC enables retrospective analysis — inspectors can re-image data with different algorithms long after acquisition.

When It Is Used

Advanced weld imaging with TFM
Research and development of new imaging algorithms
Critical-asset baseline scans

Related terms

Total Focusing Method (TFM) — TFM is an advanced ultrasonic imaging technique that post-processes Full Matrix Capture (FMC) data to synthetically focus the beam at every pixel in the region of interest, producing high-resolution images of complex defects.
Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) — PAUT is an advanced ultrasonic technique using a multi-element transducer (16–256 elements) with electronic beam steering and focusing, producing sectorial, linear, and compound scans for superior weld inspection and defect characterization.

More method terms

Ultrasonic Testing · Radiographic Testing · Magnetic Particle Testing · Penetrant Testing · Eddy Current Testing · Visual Testing · Acoustic Emission Testing · Leak Testing · Thermography / Infrared Testing · Microwave Testing

Where this comes up in practice

Terms like this one appear in three places that matter commercially: the written practice that governs how your personnel are qualified, the procedures and technique sheets that define how an examination is actually performed, and the evidence an auditor or client asks for when they want to know why an inspection was accepted. Getting the terminology right is the easy part; being able to produce the qualification record, the calibration traceability and the procedure revision that applied on the day of the inspection is the part that decides audits.

Atlantis NDT provides NDT training and certification against ASNT SNT-TC-1A and ISO 9712, ASNT Level III consulting for written practices and procedure approval, inspection management software that holds qualification, calibration and procedure-revision evidence in recoverable form, and an asset integrity platform that binds inspection results to the asset they describe. Browse the full NDT glossary or ask a Level III directly.