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The need to improve corporate bottom lines, measure tighter tolerances and comply with standards such as ISO 9000, QS-9000 and Z540-1 forces quality managers to continuously improve efficiencies. In order to help meet these goals, organizations should replace older calibration equipment with newer, more efficient models. While stated accuracy or uncertainty, are always major considerations in any such purchase, many other factors must be considered to get the best equipment for specific needs. This article examines high-end gaging products. Begin by considering instrument uncertainty, repeatability and resolution. It's important to remember that instrument uncertainty and accuracy are not the same. Simply put, accuracy is the difference between a true value and a measured one. For example, a measuring device with 0.0005" (0.0127 mm) accuracy will provide readings that may be 0.0005" (0.0127 mm) in error. On the other hand, an instrument uncertainty statement incorporates the use of statistical analysis to convey the probable error in a measurement. It includes the sensor's absolute accuracy, repeatability and resolution, as well as any variability introduced by the equipment's mechanics.

Calibration Equipment: Justifying Your Purchase Decision - Lab and Test Equipment