Calibration is the process of comparing an unknown value to a
known value. To calibrate a device is to compare a
characteristic of that device with the characteristic of a
similar device called a “standard.” Using load cells as an
example, the load cell being calibrated and the standard load
cell are mounted together in series and a range of loads is
applied. Both load cells experience the same load and therefore
the output values should ideally be identical. A calibration
result most often indicates a difference between the A common
misconception is that calibration means adjusting the output of
a device to bring its performance “within limits.” Any
adjustment made to the output of the device is separate from the
calibration and verification process, and must be followed by a
further calibration and verification to prove the adjustment was
successful. NOTE: It is important not to confuse CALIBRATION
with the term "calibrate" that is sometimes used on instruments
to refer to the actions of setting up a transd