According to PW-52.1: "When the ultrasonic examination method is used for a weld requiring volumetric examination by PW-11, the weld shall be examined throughout its entire length using the techniques and standards for ultrasonic examination as defined in Section V, Article 4, Mandatory Appendix VII, Ultrasonic Examination Requirements for a Workmanship Based Acceptance Criteria."

Does this mean that only automated or semi-automated ultrasonic examination is allowed, since at least I'm reading that it only refers to appendix VII of Sec. V Art. 4 (which should be actually appendix VI, I think)?

In 2007 Edition, there is only reference to Section V, Article 4 at PW-52.1

TSW,
I believe Section I should refer to Appendix VI in lieu of VII, it is typo error. You are also correct that the UT required by Section I is Automated (as TOFD is) or semi-automated. This is my opinion only.
But it is also very important to note that other Codes like Section VIII-1, Section IX etc do not refer to Appendix VI when requiring UT, although ASME is not a mono light, different committee may think in a different way.

_________________
Thanks & Regards,
Nasir
Welding Engineer
DESCON Engineering Limited.
Lahore, Pakistan.
Mobile # 0092-336-4145402