Overview

Data reduction and analysis is the process by which large amounts of raw or partially processed data obtained during a test is managed and organized and the results presented in a visual format. The purpose of the data reduction and analysis process is to pass on the information obtained during the test so that conclusions can be made about what happened, about signal validity, and about the need for more or different tests. Data reduction and analysis can take place in real time, after the test, or a combination of both. Almost all data reduction and analysis is carried out using computer programs to store, manipulate, and present data.

The simplest form of data reduction is the conversion of signal conditioning voltage outputs into engineering units. This can involve feeding the voltage into an equation that describes the output-versus-input relationship as determined from the calibration of the measurement system. In other cases, the outputs from several measurements are combined to produce one result that is then used in later analysis. The use of temperature, pressure, and volumetric flow signals to produce a mass-flow measurement is an example of this type of data reduction.

Another simple form of data reduction is correcting measurement signals for the errors caused by environmental or test conditions that affect the transducer signal. These can include zero shifts, span errors, and dimensional variations caused by changes in temperature or pressure. The correction factors for these effects must be known before the data reduction procedure, either...