For anyone performing a measurement using a particular instrument, it usually matters to know whether the instrument is calibrated or not. Calibration is required, along with precision, to enable accurate measurements to be made. Calibration means observing the instrument’s performance … Read more
Tag: Instruments
Oscilloscopes: Function, Features, Applications & Selection Guide
The Function of an Oscilloscope
An oscilloscope is an electronic instrument that presents a graphical display of its input voltage as a function of time. It is important to note that oscilloscopes only measure voltages not currents or resistances however … Read more
Pulse Generator: Function, Operation & Applications
The Function of a Pulse Generator
A pulse generator is an electronic instrument used to generate pulses for use in different types of electronic applications. Pulse generators are mainly utilized for production of pulses that are used to test applications … Read more
Instrument Grounding: General Guidelines
Specific attention must be paid to instrument grounding, especially where field instruments are connected to a computer or microprocessor based control system. Where cable screens are used, ground continuity of screens must be maintained throughout the installation with the … Read more
Function Generator: Features & Applications
Features of Function Generators
A function generator is a signal source that can produce different types of waveforms as its output signal. The most common output waveforms are: sine waves, square waves and triangular waves. Furthermore, some function generators also … Read more
What are Virtual Instruments?
Virtual instruments (VI) are instruments based on computer software whose controls and displays are presented on a computer screen and whose operation and settings are controlled by the keyboard and mouse. Instead of purchasing a number of expensive, dedicated, standalone … Read more
What is Calibration of the Sensor?
Calibration of the sensor is the relationship between the physical measurement variable input and the signal variable output for that specific sensor. Typically, a sensor or an entire instrument system is calibrated by providing a known physical input to the … Read more
The Principle of Operation of an Induction Potentiometer
An induction potentiometer is a rotary type linear-variable inductor with two concentrated windings wound on the stator and on the rotor as illustrated in the figure below:
The rotor windings are excited with an AC, inducing voltage … Read more
Basic Elements of an Electronic Instrument
An electronic instrument is made up of the following key elements:
- Transducer
- Signal modifier
- Indicating device
Transducer
This is the first sensing element and is needed only when measuring a non-electrical quantity such as … Read more
Electrical vs. Electronic Instruments
Despite the fact that both electrical and electronic instruments measure electrical quantities like voltage and current, they differ from each other in terms of the built-in features; for example, purely electrical instruments don’t possess any in-built amplifying device to increase … Read more