Calibration · Glossary

What is Calibration?

comparison with a standardCalibration

Calibration is the comparison of an instrument reading with a known reference standard, recording the error and, if needed, adjusting it.

Calibration Explained

Strictly, calibration is the comparison and record; adjustment is a separate step. A good calibration records as found results, adjusts if outside tolerance, then records as left results.

Results are only meaningful if the reference is traceable and its uncertainty is small compared with the tolerance being checked.

Calculators for Calibration

CalculatorCalibration Error CalculatorFree online calculator with formula and worked example.CalculatorCalibration Test Points GeneratorFree online calculator with formula and worked example.CalculatorCalibration Interval CalculatorFree online calculator with formula and worked example.

Free Downloads

Free downloadCalibration Certificate Format in ExcelFree download in Excel and PDF.Free downloadPressure Transmitter Calibration Report FormatFree download in Excel and PDF.Free downloadCalibration Master List Format in Excel with Due Date TrackerFree download in Excel and PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calibration?

Calibration is the comparison of an instrument reading with a known reference standard, recording the error and, if needed, adjusting it.

Is calibration the same as adjustment?

No. Calibration finds the error; adjustment changes the instrument to reduce it.

What does a calibration record need?

Instrument ID, reference used, test points, as found and as left readings, errors, tolerance, result, date and person.

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More Calibration Terms

Calibration termAccuracyAccuracy is how close a measurement is to the true value; in specifications it is the maximum expected error.Calibration termAccuracy SpecificationAn accuracy specification states how an instrument maker defines its maximum error, such as % of span, %…Calibration termPrecisionPrecision is how closely repeated measurements of the same quantity agree with each other, regardless of…Calibration termRepeatabilityRepeatability is the closeness of successive readings of the same input under the same conditions, same…Calibration termReproducibilityReproducibility is the closeness of results for the same quantity when conditions change, such as…Calibration termHysteresisHysteresis is the difference between readings at the same input when approached from below (upscale) and…

All calibration terms · Full glossary A to Z