What characteristic distinguishes a 32/128 phased-array system from other configurations?

The distinguishing characteristic of a 32/128 phased-array system is its ability to process signals from combinations of elements. This means that such a system can utilize a combination of its 32 transmit elements to receive signals from up to 128 total elements, facilitating more complex signal processing and enhancing the quality of the data collected. By utilizing various combinations of elements for each ultrasonic pulse and reception, the system can achieve improved resolution, sensitivity, and flexibility in imaging.

This capability allows for better steering and focusing of the ultrasonic beam, which is critical in applications like flaw detection and evaluation of material properties. Consequently, the ability to engage multiple elements at once maximizes the effectiveness of the phased-array technique, leading to high-quality results that could not be achieved with simpler configurations.