[en] A miniature ultrasonic search head was developed for computer-controlled inservice inspection of nuclear piping weldments. Major performance objectives were increasing data reproducibility and versatility of inspection techniques and reducing radiation exposure for certified Level II inspectors. The fluid-filled search head houses a toroidal axicon lens, transducer, and folded mirror system that produces either a small diameter near-parallel beam or a defocused beam. The folded mirror system also provides a long fluid path, thus eliminating multiple echoes during the inspection period. Monitoring of beam characteristics and operation of the linear and two angular motions are computer controlled. Data reproducibility is improved by computer control and monitoring of acoustic and mechanical performance characteristics. Versatility is achieved through varied beam shapes and orientations and the flexible diaphragm which permits scanning simple or complex shapes. Extensive automation of field operational steps allows the Level II inspectors, who are in short supply because of radiation ''burnout'', to function primarily from the radiation-free computer console