3 unknown tips on how to import and export data plus install the latest ZS Xplorer software – Free!

by Ulf Nobbmann, Monday, 15th October 2018

The new ZS Xplorer software is here! (all 21 versions in the table 3rd paragraph)

Icon of the new Zetasizer softwareModern, flexible and different from the classic Zetasizer software, the novel ZS Xplorer software interface highlights the latest generation of Zetasizer systems: the Zetasizer Pro and the Zetasizer Ultra. If you missed the launch, check out the exciting launch recording and Q&A session.

In order to help you easily adapt to the new interface, here are a few commonly encountered tips to help you become familiar with the entirely new software architecture. The main difference is that data are now saved in one single database.  This makes searching for and comparing of different data sets much more convenient. Former ‘.dts data files’ now form a ‘project’ and all data now reside within a single database. So it’s good practice to organize your measurements in projects that have a common theme.

Sharing specific data with a colleague (or our helpdesk) ? You can now export a specific collection of your data into a designated file type with the extension ‘.zmes’ to facilitate this exchange. See below how to do this.

How can I export a data set?

To export data, go to Analyze, select a project, highlight desired records, then click the Export pictogram.

Export-ZSXThe exported selection has the default file name “project-name.zmes” and it will be located in the folder

Documents – Malvern Instruments – ZS XPLORER – Measurement Data

from which they can then be emailed. Please note that the file size can get potentially significant, so you may have to split a larger number of records into several files if emailing (or compressed into a zip file archive).

How can I import a data set?

This process is very similar to the exporting. To import these data, place the file into the folder

Documents – Malvern Instruments – ZS XPLORER – Measurement Data

Import-ZSXNext, from within the ZS Xplorer software, click on Analyze, expand the left Xplorer sidebar, highlight the desired “.zmes” (dot zmes) file and select the file to import.

If the file is not there, try to refresh with the Refresh pictogram. The target location for imported data will be the currently open project. (So it might be good practice to create a new project before importing lots of different data sets). Once the import is complete, data can then be displayed, overlaid, statistical analysis performed (mean, standard deviation) and exported into excel or as graphs.

For a great overview of select new features, the ZS Xplorer1.0.0 tips and tricks list topics such as

  • Why can’t I see the measurement type I want?
  • Repeating/duplicating/grouping multiple measurements
  • Setup of thermal ramps
  • Why can’t I run my schedule?
  • How to display parameters for data analysis
  • Modify the layout or view of results, how to unhide transient and unfiltered data
  • Moving data to Excel or another spreadsheet for your own analysis
  • How to find recently taken measurements

to help accelerate the learning curve with the brand-new ultra software.

How can I try out the new ZS Xplorer software?

Here is the link to the officially downloadable  ZS Xplorer software 1.0.0 which you can install on any suitable 64-bit Windows computer [Win10 is best, 16MB Ram, 4th gen i7 or better, find detailed requirements in the software update notification]. Please note there are now updates to the initial software available, in order of their release. They are all FREE and available to you via the main website. But you can save time instead of searching and use the direct links below.  Please note, these are all complete versions and you should typically just download the latest version:

[Note by Editor: links updated with latest versions]

Please note: starting with v2 you have to install the License Manager [LicenseManagerSetup.exe] first before installing the ZS Xplorer software. There is no license necessary, but the ZSX ZS Xplorer software requires the License Manager to be installed. Starting with v3.2.1 an outgoing-only cloud connection (“Smart Manager“) can send low-level telemetry data to enable some remote support. However, this does not have to be enabled and the software can run without connection to the internet. You can also just install ZS Xplorer software with the Smart Manager, and then connect or disconnect to the internet as you like. This leaves you the option to take advantage of some remote capabilities on demand.

Bonus: once you have the software installed, why not try to import some size and zeta potential data by 1. downloading, 2. unzipping, 3. placing Example-Results-transfer-standard into

Documents – Malvern Instruments – ZS Xplorer – Measurement Data – to experience for yourself how easy-to-use and powerful the new ZS Xplorer software is.

Previously

If you have any questions, please email me at ulf.nobbmann@malvernpanalytical.com. Thanks! While opinions are generally those of the author, some parts may have been modified by our editorial team.
Request a Quote Request a Quote