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.

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 · Instruments

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 · Instruments

Measuring chain

The series of elements of a measuring system constituting a single path of the measurement signal from sensor to output element.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.10 · Instruments

Measuring instrument

A device used for making measurements, alone or in conjunction with supplementary devices.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.1 · Instruments

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 · Instruments

Measuring system

One or more measuring instruments and often other devices, assembled and adapted to give measured values within specified intervals for quantities of specified kinds.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.2 · Instruments

Measuring transducer

A device, used in measurement, that provides an output quantity having a specified relation to the input quantity — a thermocouple, a load cell, a pressure-to-current converter.

VIM (JCGM 200:2012) 3.7 · Instruments