Dictionary · Instruments
Instrumental drift
A continuous or incremental change of an indication over time, due neither to a change in the quantity being measured nor to a recognized influence quantity — a key input to calibration-interval decisions.
Related terms
More from Instruments
Nominal quantity value
A rounded or approximate value of a characterizing quantity of a measuring instrument that guides its appropriate use — the "100 Ω" stamped on a resistor, the "1 kg" of a weight.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.6
Zero error
The datum measurement error when the specified measured value is zero.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.28
Discrimination threshold
The largest change in the value of the quantity being measured that causes no detectable change in the corresponding indication — stickiness quantified.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.16
Step response time
The duration between the instant an input quantity is subjected to an abrupt change between two specified constant values and the instant the indication settles within specified limits of its final steady value.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.23
Indication
The quantity value provided by a measuring instrument or system — the reading, before any correction.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.1
Sensitivity of a measuring system
The quotient of the change in an indication and the corresponding change in the value of the quantity being measured.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.12