Calibrating Temperature Sensors
There is more than one approach to equipment calibration. The one you choose depends on the level of accuracy needed and how much time and money you invest.
Calibration of ONLY the Electronics
PRO: It takes very little time. The output is instant, and simulators do not require stabilization time. It is more portable than other types of calibration and you can use the simulator with interchangeable probes.
CON: You will need to calibrate the probe separately, this requires additional equipment. And if you do not, the probe and the system will remain uncalibrated and measurements will be untraceable.
Calibration of the Sensors AND the Electronics
PRO: The meter and probe are calibrated together as a complete system. The system is easy to set up and only on system is needed. It is calibrated against actual temperatures.
CON: The accuracy of calibration depends on the dry-well’s calibrated accuracy, and errors can occur if the probe is too short to reach the bottom of the dry-well. After calibrating, the unit-under-test probes cannot be interchanged. This approach is time consuming.
Calibration of the Sensors & Electronics WITH a Reference Thermometer
PRO: You get the highest accuracy of calibration with another reference for traceability. Unit-under-test sizes are more versatile.
CON: Not only is this method time consuming, but It is costly. Most expensive of all 3 methods. Temperature changes int eh dry-well take time. This setup is more complex, with 2 instruments, and after the calibration, the unit-under-test probes cannot be interchanged.
Keeping your lab equipment in peak condition is vital if the results are going to be accurate and reliable. Scientific Instrument Center (SIC) is your trusted company for laboratory equipment repair and maintenance services. If you have questions about your laboratory equipment and would like to discuss options for repairing or maintaining the equipment, please contact us at (614) 771-4700.
