Dictionary · Instruments
Sensor
The element of a measuring system directly affected by the phenomenon, body, or substance carrying the quantity being measured — the Pt resistance element in an SPRT, the seismic mass in an accelerometer.
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Accuracy class
A class of instruments or systems that meet stated metrological requirements intended to keep errors or instrumental uncertainties within specified limits under specified conditions — OIML weight classes E1 through M3 are the canonical example.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.25
Reference operating condition
An operating condition prescribed for evaluating the performance of an instrument or for comparing results — the 23 °C ± 1 °C line at the top of a datasheet.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.11
Maximum permissible error (MPE)
The extreme value of measurement error, with respect to a known reference value, permitted by specifications or regulations for a given instrument. Verification confirms indications fall within ±MPE.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.26
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
Zero error
The datum measurement error when the specified measured value is zero.
VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.28
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