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Technical Terms

Calibration is the process of checking the performance of a measuring instrument.

JIS measurement terminology in JIS Z 8103:2000 defines "calibration as a series of operations to establish the relationship between the value indicated by an instrument or measuring system, or the value represented by an actual measuring instrument or reference material, and the value realized by a standard.

In some cases, the measuring instruments might have some instrumental error regarding accuracy, function, and operation. For example, a scale or a gravimeter has such errors depending on the latitude or altitude. There may be a discrepancy between actual and measured values as the instrument is used.

Such errors will have many negative impacts, including deterioration in measurement reliability, high ratio of defective products, control failures, etc.

Through periodic calibration, measuring instruments are needed for accurate measurement results. Calibration is typically performed twice, before and after measurement. As for measuring instruments that are used continuously, continuous calibration is necessary according to the specific cycles.

The calibration cycles vary depending on the frequent use of the device and other factors. Calibration is a checking process of the current status of measuring instruments. Therefore, adjustment or maintenance work is needed if there is a large discrepancy in calibration. In other words, calibration is not repairing or maintenance operations to the measuring instruments.

Calibration | Technical Terms: Power Supplies | Matsusada Precision