Agilent Setting and Adjusting Instrument Calibration Intervals - Application Note 5991-1220EN c20140725 [6] free download

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Keysight Technologies Setting and Adjusting Instrument Calibration Intervals Application Note Introduction For every organization that relies on electronic test equipment, the cost of instrument calibration is sometimes viewed as an expense that could be easily reduced. Calibration costs--and therefore calibration intervals--are part of a broader discussion that includes tradeoffs between risk and cost, and between quality and customer satisfaction. Because the instrument manufacturer provides a recommended calibration interval, there may be a feeling that this is an arbitrary time span driven by tradition or other motivations. From Keysight Technologies perspective, a well-defined calibration interval is one that balances the tradeoffs between the cost and inconvenience of the process and the need to keep test instruments performing within their specifications. The right cal interval also reduces the risks that come with inaccurate measurements and erroneous pass/fail decisions. Ultimately, our overarching goal is to boost your confidence in two areas: in the results our instruments produce and in the decisions you make based on those results. Outlining our approach Keysight Technologies, Inc. uses well-defined processes to set the initial cali- bration interval and then assess the possibility of extending that interval. Below, we outline the method used prior to the introduction of a new product and also describe the process we use after a full two years of calibration data is available for a specific model. This information will be of interest to at least two distinct groups. One is any organization that uses outside service providers and wants to reduce costs without adversely affecting product quality or system performance. The other is self-maintainers seeking guidance regarding internal management of calibration intervals for their instrument pool. Both groups will find answers in the pages that follow. Setting the initial calibration interval Prior to the introduction of a new product, the responsible R&D and quality engi- neers set the initial recommended calibration interval. They do this by looking at reliability data from at least three areas: