HBM has introduced its catman®AP (Advanced Package) software package that is designed to be optimally suited to Spider8-30 amplifiers. By combining the simplified operation of catman®Easy with additional advanced functions, HBM has produced catman®AP. All relevant amplifier setup variations can be made directly through the software. Apart from control functions the software provides many special functions for strain gage (SG) measurements. These include the calculation of principal stress and principal stress direction from SG-rosette signals. Add-on modules enable catman®AP to undertake complex mathematical data analysis and automate data acquisition processes and data analysis. Spider8-30, HBM’s notebook-sized amplifier is fully PC-controlled using the catman®AP software making it a cost-efficient solution that can be implemented without substantial installation effort. Strain gages can be used flexibly as Spider8-30 includes integrated completion resistors with 120, 350 and 700 ohm. Spider8-30 is suited to measurements using strain gages wired in all common bridge circuit variants as well as to HBM’s patented 4-wire circuit. Typical applications in the field of experimental stress analysis include fracture and tension tests, fatigue tests, or general strength-related design optimization. HBM provides the complete measurement chain for applications in experimental stress analysis, ranging from strain gages through amplifiers and software.