Calibration services, sometimes called instrument calibration services, are an essential part of the upkeep of any measurement device or instrument. Calibration services’ purposes are to take a measurement of the precise output of a device, usually in terms of its power, and compare this reading with the manufacturer’s standards to find out if the device is running both safely and efficiently. 

During the Renaissance and Industrial Revolution, inventors created all sorts of measurement devices, such as Torricelli’s mercury barometer in . The creation of these devices eventually gave rise for the need to have a way to make sure they were accurate. During the Civil War, people first began using the word calibrate in reference to the caliber of a gun, or the measurements of its inside barrel, and bullet outside diameters. As a result, gun manufacturers began referring to calibration as the process of measuring gun barrels and bullets to make sure they were well-matched. Eventually, this term bled over into other accuracy and measurement applications.

Calibration services offer customers a number of benefits. First, regular calibration is the best and only sustainable method for maintaining instrument accuracy. In fact, in many industries, leaders not only recommend regular calibration, but require it to meet safety and efficiency standards. In addition, by maintaining instrument accuracy, calibration services help hold up fair trade and honest business practices around the world. By eliminating a large portion of the margin of error for important measurements, like those related to pollutants and allergens, calibration services also help keep society safe and healthy.

The history of calibration services begins with the standardization of weights and measurements of length and distance. Before standardization, measurements varied widely from place to place, and often changed from person to person. For example, one of the first measures of distance in the world was the cubit. People measured cubits as the distance from a person’s shoulder to the tip of their nose. Since no two people are the exact same size, using this system, no two measurements could be exact.

To find the right one for you, start by writing out a list of your requirements. Make sure to include not only the details of your instrument or machine, but also requirements like your budget and whether you can deliver your instrument to the service provider, or you need the service provider to come to you (on-site calibration). Once you have jotted down your requirements, start browsing the calibration companies we have listed on this page. Pick out three or four service providers in which you are most interested, then reach out to their respective customer service lines. Discuss your application at length which each of them. Make sure to write down notes or request a written quote. Once you have done this, compare and contrast your conversations. Determine which service provider will best serve you and go with them.