Dictionary · Instruments
Measuring instrument
A device used for making measurements, alone or in conjunction with supplementary devices.
Related terms
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Material measure
A device reproducing or supplying, in a permanent manner during its use, quantities of given values — gauge blocks, standard weights, volumetric flasks, standard resistors.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.6
Detection limit
The measured value, obtained by a given procedure, for which the probability of falsely claiming absence of a component is β, given a probability α of falsely claiming its presence — the statistically honest "smallest amount we can claim to see".
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.18
Stability of a measuring instrument
The property of an instrument whereby its metrological properties remain constant in time — quantified by the time taken to drift a stated amount, or the change over a stated time.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.19
Indication
The quantity value provided by a measuring instrument or system — the reading, before any correction.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.1
Measuring interval
The set of values of quantities of the same kind that can be measured by a given instrument or system with specified instrumental uncertainty under defined conditions — the interval the specifications actually promise.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.7
Scale of a displaying measuring instrument
The part of a displaying instrument consisting of an ordered set of marks with associated quantity values.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.5