Why do we calibrate accelerometers the way we do? Click below to view a short video on the fundamental purposes of accelerometer calibration. Mike Dillon will discuss two common accelerometer calibration techniques and the failure modes they are designed to detect.

In the field of calibration, we are constantly working to minimize or eliminate any phenomena that contribute to measurement uncertainty. There are simple things that can be directly managed, like sensor mounting and cabling techniques. There are other uncertainty contributors such as noise and harmonic distortion that are often beyond the control of the calibration technician. The Modal Shop has recently designed an algorithm to help minimize the amount of distortion present in the system. This article will explain how the algorithm works and the impact that it has on reducing the harmonic distortion in the sensor signal.

A good friend of mine always says, "Calibration is like getting a teenage boy to brush his teeth... They are always looking in mirrors and may comb their hair a hundred times a day, but never want to take the time in the morning to brush their teeth."  From my observations, even in the business of test and measurement, it seems that appearances get all the attention and the sound practices of calibration, verification and maintenance are often an afterthought...