{"id":3221,"date":"2025-06-26T20:10:03","date_gmt":"2025-06-26T20:10:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/?p=3221"},"modified":"2025-07-25T14:31:35","modified_gmt":"2025-07-25T14:31:35","slug":"top-5-signs-your-test-equipment-needs-to-be-calibrated","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/top-5-signs-your-test-equipment-needs-to-be-calibrated\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 5 Signs Your Test Equipment Needs to Be Calibrated"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-audio\"><audio controls src=\"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/When-to-Repair-Your-Test-Equipment.mp3\"><\/audio><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><em>Listen to this post here.<\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Calibration is an essential part of any test system\u2019s maintenance routine, playing a crucial role in preserving measurement accuracy, ensuring system integrity, and sustaining performance. No matter what industry you work in, calibration is vital for making sure your system is in compliance with established standards and that your entire operation runs smoothly. This post covers the top 5 signs that your equipment needs calibration, as well as how Apex Waves can help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"5 Signs Your Test Equipment Needs Calibration\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rM2ZqdnKTdg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4c7fa5ca6433260064c85fc71be5afa6\" style=\"font-size:25px\"><strong>1) Inconsistent or Unstable Readings&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">One of the most immediately recognizable signs that calibration is needed is when multiple measurements of the same input yield significantly different results. If you have been noticing consistently different results or erratic fluctuations, it is very likely that the calibration has drifted.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">These <strong>inconsistent readings <\/strong>are especially noticeable when monitoring voltage, current, resistance, or frequency. For example, the internal references that are used by precision DAQ modules gradually deteriorate over time or with exposure to the environment\u2014resulting in drift, noise, or sporadic errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Test measurements may start to drift over time due to a variety of reasons, including aging, environmental conditions, and wear and tear. By detecting and correcting these issues as they arise, calibration can restore the hardware to its most accurate state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-86c349ace68d95e0b803a14f388993ae\" style=\"font-size:25px\"><strong>2) Out-of-Tolerance Measurements&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">The \u201ctolerance level\u201d refers to the highest amount of inaccuracy that is allowed in a measurement, which can vary based on the intended application. Calibrations are all performed against a specific tolerance level. When a measurement is <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nwiinstrumentation.com.au\/out-of-tolerance-instruments\/\">Out of Tolerance (OOT)<\/a><\/strong>, it means that some calibration points did not meet the required tolerance level.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">For example: measuring a known signal (5 V) and repeatedly receiving measurements that are too high or too low (such as 4.7 V or 5.3 V).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Measurement equipment that repeatedly returns values outside of expected or allowed tolerances, especially during function or validation tests, should be calibrated. This will help avoid issues in industries such as aerospace or defense where compliance is critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" src=\"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-74-1024x577.png\" alt=\"Bird's-eye view of part that is plugged in for calibration\" class=\"wp-image-3224\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-74-1024x577.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-74-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-74.png 1904w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bdaaf7b6c06b417f5663a160fb3f9ea7\" style=\"font-size:25px\"><strong>3) It\u2019s Been Over a Year Since the Last Calibration<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Calibrating your test hardware is not just a helpful suggestion, it is a step that is mandated by government agencies and required by standards set forth by ISO. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/home.html\">ISO<\/a> <\/strong>stands for<strong> International Organization for Standardization<\/strong>, which is an international organization that creates consensus-based standards meant to improve and simplify challenges ranging from process management to product manufacturing. Measuring equipment and management systems fall under the guidelines of standards such as<strong> ISO 10012:2003<\/strong> and <strong>ISO\/IEC 17025.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Even if your hardware seems to be operating well from the outside, internal parts such as analog converters and oscillators can experience drift over time. This is especially true for legacy\/older systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Standard maintenance cycles recommend annual recalibration. If your equipment has not been recalibrated in over a year, it\u2019s worth getting it checked out.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1148624f1a42da1abb0edc812d10ed1a\" style=\"font-size:25px\"><strong>4) THE EQUIPMENT WAS RECENTLY MOVED, SHIPPED, OR EXPOSED TO STRESS<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Moving offices and unsure if it will impact your testing hardware? When test equipment is exposed to unusual conditions, such as transportation or freight shipping, it can cause shifts in the sensitive internal circuitry and components. This can cause <strong>misalignment<\/strong>, affecting solder joints or internal signal paths.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">If your hardware has been handled roughly or even dropped, recalibration can get everything back into working order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8dc183cb7133eeaf304694d73e614f10\" style=\"font-size:25px\"><strong>5) YOU&#8217;RE PREPARING FOR A CRITICAL TEST OR CLIENT DELIVERABLE<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Don\u2019t take chances if your test equipment is set as a deliverable for a client or regulatory body. Even minor errors caused by miscalibration can quickly turn into major delays, failed results, or potentially even legal liability.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Calibration is also incredibly important before starting any high-stakes measurements to prevent hours of troubleshooting or rejected work. Calibration ensures your equipment performs within manufacturer specifications and industry standards. It\u2019s the foundation of trust in your data\u2014and your results.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-75-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Closeup of technician's test bench with hardware plugged in\" class=\"wp-image-3223\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-75-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-75-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-75.png 1902w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d72455f314915bbc06600a64779e5c26\" style=\"font-size:25px\"><strong><strong>Getting Your Test Equipment Calibrated with Apex Waves<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Apex Waves currently offers two calibration service options: <strong>basic (unaccredited)<\/strong> <strong>calibration <\/strong>performed in-house and <strong>NIST accredited calibration<\/strong> through NI. For NIST accredited calibrations, we help reduce wait times for legacy equipment support with a typical turnaround time of just 2-4 weeks. For this option, the lead time is determined based on the calibration complexity and the specific part that is used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">The basic\/unaccredited calibration offered by Apex Waves is available upon request when parts are ordered. With this option, our experienced in-house technicians fully calibrate the device to the manufacturer\u2019s specifications prior to shipment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Once parts reach a certain stage of <a href=\"https:\/\/nwiinstrumentation.com.au\/out-of-tolerance-instruments\/\">NI\u2019s Hardware Product Lifecycle<\/a>, the manufacturer will only provide \u201creasonable effort\u201d for calibrating them. Apex Waves continues to support these parts in perpetuity! We service parts from any stage of the hardware lifecycle, including legacy hardware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">If you need to get your part(s) calibrated and want to avoid lengthy wait times, reach out to us today! Learn more about our services <a href=\"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/calibration.php\">here<\/a> and reach out to <a href=\"mailto:support@apexwaves.com\">support@apexwaves.com<\/a> to get in touch.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Calibration is an essential part of any test system\u2019s maintenance routine, playing a crucial role in preserving measurement accuracy, ensuring system integrity, and sustaining performance. No matter what industry you work in, calibration is vital for making sure your system is in compliance with established standards and that your entire operation runs smoothly. This post [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3222,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[104,393,437,918],"class_list":["post-3221","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-calibration","tag-national-instruments","tag-ni","tag-test-and-measurement"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3221","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3221"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3221\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3268,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3221\/revisions\/3268"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3222"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3221"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3221"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.apexwaves.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3221"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}