Frequently Asked Questions

Table of contents

F.A.Q. Basic interaction with TQT Nuclei

Below are ten commonly asked questions about the TQT Nuclei app and their corresponding answers. These should help guide users through typical scenarios and issues they might encounter when using the software.

How do I install the TQT Nuclei software?

Question

    • Q: How do I install the TQT Nuclei software?

    • A: First, register at the TerraQuantTech LLC web portal (dev.terraquant.tech), accept the terms of service, and request a trial or purchase a full license. After obtaining the license file (*.tl), download the installer for your operating system (Windows or macOS) and follow the installation instructions.

How do I set the device to the correct operating temperature?

Question

    • Q: How do I set the device to the correct operating temperature?

    • A: When you first power on the device, allow 1-2 hours for the magnet to reach its operating temperature. You can monitor the temperature in the HOME tab, where the current temperature (T_cur) and the set temperature (T_set) are displayed. A green signal indicates the system is ready, while a flashing yellow signal means it is still heating up.

What should I do if I see a red temperature signal?

Question

    • Q: What should I do if I see a red temperature signal?

    • A: A red signal indicates overheating or an error in the temperature reading circuit. Check the device for any potential issues and ensure it is in a well-ventilated area. If the problem persists, contact support.

How do I start an experiment?

Question

    • Q: How do I start an experiment?

    • A: Once the system is configured, go to the ACQUISITION page, select an experiment preset (e.g., Hahn Echo or CPMG), and click the "START" button. The results will be displayed in the main window, and if the "Save" or "Save as new experiment" options are checked, the data will also appear in the DATA BROWSER.

What does the “Experiment Data Preview Toggle” do?

Question

    • Q: What does the “Experiment Data Preview Toggle” do?

    • A: The Experiment Data Preview Toggle allows you to customize how data is visually displayed in any plot component. You can adjust the plot theme, rename the graph title and axes, and modify the legend. You can also assign different colors to each signal line and change the type of data points rendering (e.g., scatter, line plot, histogram).

Can I create custom experiments in the app?

Question

    • Q: Can I create custom experiments in the app?

    • A: Yes, you can create custom experiments using the SEQUENCE page. You have two options:

    • Python scripting: Write your experiment in Python using an integrated editor with LSP server support.

    • Graphic nodes mode: Build experiments visually by arranging nodes such as Pulse, Silence, ADC, and more.

How do I load and review previous experiments?

Question

    • Q: How do I load and review previous experiments?

    • A: Go to the DATA BROWSER page. On the left, you will see a file tree structure with all your experiments. Select the desired experiment to view its details. You can preview the data, load it, or export it. There is also a table showing metadata and experimental settings, including pulse durations, amplifications, and phases.

What types of experiments are available as presets?

Question

    • Q: What types of experiments are available as presets?

    • A: The app offers several pre-configured experiment presets, including CPMG, FID (Free Induction Decay), T1 (Inversion Recovery), and Hahn-Echo. These can be run out-of-the-box by selecting them from the ACQUISITION page and pressing "START".

Can I create custom user interfaces within the app?

Question

    • Q: Can I create custom user interfaces within the app?

    • A: Yes, on the CUSTOM PAGE, you can design your own UI using HTML layouts and Python logic. In Edit Mode, you can toggle between the Layout (where you define the structure) and Code (where you implement functionality). Switching from Edit to View Mode may take a few seconds to render large pages.

Where can I find help or report issues with the software?

Question

    • Q: Where can I find help or report issues with the software?

    • A: The HELP page provides two main options:

    • A button to open the documentation in a separate window (dev.terraquant.tech/docs).

    • A link to report new issues or bugs directly via GitHub (https://github.com/TQT-Public/Nuclei/issues/new). There is also a quick information panel summarizing key software and hardware details.

Advanced FAQ

Here are ten more advanced questions about the TQT Nuclei app, targeting users who already have experience working with NMR spectrometers and relaxometers.

How do I manually adjust the dead time (ring-down time) for my resonant circuit?

Question

    • Q: How do I manually adjust the dead time (ring-down time) for my resonant circuit?

    • A: Go to the HOME page and select the DEAD TIME tab. Adjust the ringing time manually by fine-tuning the dead time value. This parameter defines the period immediately after the excitation pulse during which the receiver is inactive, allowing you to measure the signal cleanly without interference from the hardware ringing.

Can I adjust the phase manually for each pulse in an experiment?

Question

    • Q: Can I adjust the phase manually for each pulse in an experiment?

    • A: Yes, in the PHASE tab of the HOME page, you can manually adjust the signal phase to optimize your experiment. This feature is especially useful when performing advanced pulse sequences where precise phase control is critical for signal acquisition.

How do I optimize my radio frequency (RF) pulse length for my sample?

Question

    • Q: How do I optimize my radio frequency (RF) pulse length for my sample?

    • A: Navigate to the DURATION tab on the HOME page. This section allows you to set the RF pulse duration to ensure the correct flip angle for your sample. Typically, you will perform a nutation experiment to determine the optimal pulse length for your specific sample conditions.

How can I integrate custom external hardware (e.g., temperature controllers or gradient coils)?

Question

    • Q: How can I integrate custom external hardware (e.g., temperature controllers or gradient coils)?

    • A: TQT Nuclei allows custom hardware integration via the Settings page. You can add external devices using the provided hardware API, which includes options for interfacing with temperature control units, gradient coils, and more. Make sure your hardware is supported by the software's I/O system.

How do I synchronize multiple relaxation experiments on a single sample?

Question

    • Q: How do I synchronize multiple relaxation experiments on a single sample?

    • A: Use the SCHEDULER page to automate the sequence of multiple relaxation experiments. You can set up a timeline where T1, T2, and other experiments (e.g., CPMG or FID) are scheduled to run sequentially or in parallel. The scheduler allows fine control over timing and repetition.

Can I export raw NMR data for external processing?

Question

    • Q: Can I export raw NMR data for external processing?

    • A: Yes, on the DATA BROWSER page, you can export raw data in several formats, including CSV and NMR-specific formats. Simply select the experiment, click the export button, and choose your preferred format. You can also download raw data directly from the plot interface using the Experiment Data Preview Toggle.

How can I add my own NMR pulse sequences?

Question

    • Q: How can I add my own NMR pulse sequences?

    • A: On the SEQUENCE page, you can either write a custom pulse sequence using Python or build one using the graphic node interface. The Program Start, Pulse, Silence, and ADC nodes allow you to define your sequence visually. You can also utilize For loops and Math nodes to incorporate complex logic and calculations into your sequence.

What is the purpose of the decimation parameter in T2 CPMG experiments?

Question

    • Q: What is the purpose of the decimation parameter in T2 CPMG experiments?

    • A: The decimation parameter in CPMG experiments allows you to skip a certain number of p180 pulses in the echo train. This feature is useful for extending the effective T2 measurement range by sampling later echoes, especially for samples with long T2 relaxation times. Decimation reduces the data acquisition time without sacrificing accuracy in longer relaxation measurements.

How can I fine-tune my pulse sequence timing using the graphic node interface?

Question

    • Q: How can I fine-tune my pulse sequence timing using the graphic node interface?

    • A: In the SEQUENCE page's graphic node mode, you can click on each Pulse or Silence node to adjust the duration, frequency, and phase. For advanced users, the visual timeline at the top of the page helps you ensure that the timing of each event matches your desired experiment design. You can also insert Math nodes to dynamically adjust time delays or pulse durations based on calculated values.

How do I troubleshoot an unstable baseline in my experiments?

Question

    • Q: How do I troubleshoot an unstable baseline in my experiments?

    • A: If you encounter baseline drift or instability, check the following:

    • Ensure the magnet temperature has stabilized (green indicator).

    • Verify that the phase and pulse durations are optimized for your sample.

    • Check for proper decoupling or saturation of signals in multi-dimensional experiments.

    • Use the HELP page to refer to the documentation or open a support ticket if issues persist.