Instrument Calibration
Instrument calibration is the process through which electronic instruments are adjusted for precision and accuracy. Calibration tools use electronic signals to measure the output of an instrument; this measurement is then compared to established standards. If there is a difference between the instrument reading and the accepted standard, the instrument can be tuned in order to conform to the set standard. This process makes instruments more precise, which is essential to the performance of measurement tools and devices in many industries.
Calibration devices come in many different designs, including handheld, portable, and fixed designs. Handheld devices are small and compact and are operated manually. Portable devices, in comparison, are designed to move from one place to another; they may have wheels or handles to add mobility. Fixed instruments are mounted and remain in the same place.
Almost any component that takes measurements needs to be calibrated at some point. Many industries maintain quality standards through regular calibration of necessary components.
Some examples of instruments that require regular calibration are speedometers, thermometers, scales, commercial ovens, lasers, acoustic and vibration testing equipment, and various other gauges.