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During cementing operations, the cement is handled in both slurry and set forms. Physical parameters, such as gel strength, thickening time, and compressive strength, play a crucial role in determining the final cement mix used during cementing. Successful cementing requires knowing the relative strength development of the cement for its target environment and conditions, prior to actual pumping. Ultrasonic cement analyzers provide a non-destructive means for determining the relative strength development of a cement sample under downhole conditions. Using the development and improvement of the modern ultasonic cement analyzer as an example, this paper describes how a modular platform for instrument design can be developed and demonstrates how this type of development can be extended to other instruments.