XEO introduces a new generation of hardware and software capabilities designed to support both today’s inspection needs and future compliance requirements. Many of these features operate quietly in the background, yet they play a crucial role in reliability, flexibility, and long-term system value.
This article highlights key design choices behind XEO and explains how performance, usability, and compliance were intentionally combined into a future-proof inspection platform.
Hardware Components
Rugged Architecture
XEO’s high-performance electronics are protected within an IP65-rated enclosure, with vibration approval. This mechanical design ensures reliable operation in demanding field environments while protecting sensitive components throughout the instrument’s full service life.
Continuous Power Availability
Two hot-swappable batteries provide up to six hours of real inspection time and remain compatible with previous-generation bay chargers. This allows uninterrupted operation during long inspections and simplifies fleet management for existing Sonatest users.
Figure 1 Rear of the instrument, showing the battery bays.
The 2 yellow side lids each conceal the USB-C ports.
Modular Connectivity with Mini-Docks
XEO’s interchangeable mini-dock system allows inspection configurations to scale from a single PA to a dual PA and up to eight UT channels without external adapters.
Mini-docks can be replaced in seconds, enabling the same instrument to support a wide range of PA-UT, TOFD, and multi-scan applications.
Figure 2 XEO offering a wide range of PA and UT splitter configurations
Encoder Input
A new three-axis encoder interface using a 16-pin LEMO 1 connector supports advanced encoded inspections. This ensures accurate positional tracking for complex scan plans and supports consistent, auditable inspection results.
USB-C Power and High-Speed Data
XEO’s USB-C ports provide both power and high-speed data transfer, supporting device charging and external fast storage like SSDs (up to 7.5 W per port at 10 Gbps). This facilitates modern workflows without compromising performance or data integrity.
The external power supply includes a high-power 100-watt USB-C, allowing you to fast-charge compatible USB-C devices.
Flexible Display Options
HDMI and USB-C video outputs support both mirrored and extended screen modes. This flexibility benefits training environments, remote collaboration, and advanced analysis workflows. When combined with keyboard and mouse support, XEO functions as a complete workstation, expanding layout space and improving visual clarity to 4K monitors.
Figure 3 Extended USB-C display setup: Scanning specimen and get its weld PDF spec sheet at the same time.
Human-Centered Interface
The user interface is built around an 11.6-inch HD touchscreen complemented by a 360-degree joystick with a clicker.
Touch gestures enable intuitive scan-plan interaction, while full joystick control guarantees usability in wet, cold, or gloved conditions where touch input might be impractical.
Software Components
Integrated OS Tools
XEO runs a KDE Linux environment, providing native access to file management, PDF documentation, and multimedia tools.
Figure 4 KDE on XEO transforms the device into a full PC.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) enables secure screen sharing for remote support, training, or collaboration through platforms, such as Microsoft Teams.
Figure 5 Operating features, connectivity, not just for NDT.
Security and Compliance Foundations
XEO is certified to ISO 18563-1:2022 and ISO 22232-1:2020, covering both phased array performance and general ultrasonic testing requirements.
The system has been designed with cybersecurity in mind, aligning with the requirements of EN 18031-1:2024 under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU.
As ultrasonic instruments increasingly connect to networks, software integrity and data protection are critical design considerations.
XEO ensures software integrity through a secure boot architecture and supports both over-the-air (OTA) and offline updates. Access control and system design measures reduce exposure of connected interfaces, enabling secure deployment in networked environments.
Built to Meet Your Requirements
For compliance-related information or application guidance, please contact Sonatest. Our team will be happy to support you in confirming that XEO aligns with your company’s inspection procedures and regulatory requirements.
