Knowledge

Metrology Dictionary

The complete VIM vocabulary — all numbered concepts of JCGM 200:2012 as faithful paraphrases with clause citations — plus clearly labeled practice terms from the GUM, ILAC, ISO and NIST guidance.

Indicating measuring instrument

A measuring instrument providing an output signal carrying information about the value of the quantity being measured — voltmeters, thermometers, balances.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.3 · Instruments

Indication

The quantity value provided by a measuring instrument or system — the reading, before any correction.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.1 · Instruments

Indication interval

The set of quantity values bounded by the extreme possible indications.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.3 · Instruments

Instrument bias

The average of replicate indications minus a reference quantity value — the instrument-level counterpart of measurement bias.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.20 · 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.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.21 · Instruments

Instrumental measurement uncertainty

The component of measurement uncertainty arising from the instrument or system in use, typically obtained from its calibration.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 4.24 · Instruments