S: Spread (Data Processing) System Test

spread (data processing)

In some performance measures, the total dispersion or spread of readings required. The spread S may be defined as, S = R1 + R2, where R1 and R2 refer to the maximum deviation of the readings from either side of the mean value of the distribution. [ISA-RP55.1 1975 (R1983)]

See also repeatability.

spreadsheet

A computer program that arranges data and formulas in a matrix of cells. It can be considered as the electronic equivalent of an accountant's ledger, with instant updating one particularly useful feature. When one entry is changed, all dependent entries are immediately altered to reflect the change.

spread spectrum radio technology

A digital communication technique in which the signal is created by modulating the radio frequency signal with a spreading sequence code or by "hopping" the frequency of the carrier signal. Developed for the U.S. military to prevent jamming.

spring

A machine element whose chief purpose is to store mechanical energy or to induce mechanical force through elastic deformation of the element's material. The element may be shaped in the form of a plate, leaf, flat-wound helix, coil, or washer. It may be made of almost any relatively hard metal or alloy; it may be stressed in tension, compression, bending, or torsion. In most spring designs the amount of deflection is directly proportional to the applied load. If the load is released, the element returns to its normal, unstressed shape or position.

springback

1. The movement of a part toward...