As stated in the Sample Adequacy article, the user must generate a Table of Potential Samples (TOPS) data set using the Create TOPS interface before creating and managing samples in other interfaces. This tab primarily functions as a means to break down records and categorize them into Sample Panels/Stratums, which are defined by Volume Group, Functional System, and Urban Code. The user can open this essential interface by selecting the icon in the Sample Adequacy tab. To Create a TOPS data set or sample table, the user can follow these steps:

1. Select the desired data table year in the “Create TOPS for Year” dropdown. After selecting a year, the “using Data” dropdown to its direct right will be populated with Data Tables related to that year.
2. Select the desired data table in the “using Data” dropdown.
3. After selecting both items, click the “Create TOPS” button.

The samples table that is generated will possess the TOPS data items, including Functional System, Facility Type, Urban Code, AADT, Through Lanes for all Federal-aid highways, and all other public roads not classified as local roads or rural minor collectors. If edits are made outside of the Sample Adequacy tab, such as in Basic Editor or the Validation Edit Menu, this process will need to be ran again to have the latest data present.