Slide 1

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 2

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 3

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 4

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 5

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 6

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 7

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 8

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 9

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 10

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 11

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 12

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 13

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 14

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 15

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 16

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 17

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 18

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 19

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 20

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 21

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 22

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 23

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 24

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 25

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 26

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 27

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 28

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 29

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 30

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 31

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 32

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 33

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 34

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology Ambassador
Program

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT


Slide 35

Metrology
The Science of Measurement

164 Education Liaison & Outreach
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Nanosphere Latex Particles


The Monodisperse Latex Reactor flew on
the third Space Shuttle flight (STS-3),
where it produced microspheres up to 5
microns in diameter. It was reflown on
STS-4, STS-6, STS-7, and STS-11,
ultimately producing microspheres up to
30 microns in diameter. These spheres
were later tested and certified by the
National Bureau of Standards.
NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF

Let’s take a trip back in time…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Prehistoric people
didn’t have time to measure

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

But over time….

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

people started growing food

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

and developing permanent settlements

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

So, they needed a system of
measurement…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

or there would be mayhem!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

History of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Egyptian Cubit




Used to build pyramids
Dependent on the pharaoh
Missed calibration was
punishable by death!

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Fast-forward 5000 years to
current measurement systems

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)
SEVEN BASE UNITS
Mass

Kilogram (kg)

Length

Meter (m)

Time

Second (s)

Temperature

Kelvin (K)

Electric Current

Ampere (A)

Amount of Substance

Mole (mol)

Luminous Intensity

Candela (cd)

International System
of Measurement

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metric System (SI)


Simple to use
• Bases of ten



All other units derived from primary seven
• For example: V = cm3 = 1 mL

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Now, a couple of definitions…

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
SERVING THE WORLD OF MEASUREMENT

Metrology
“the science that deals with measurement”

Measure
“to determine the dimension, quantity or
capacity of something”

NCSL INTERNATIONAL
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Metrology Concepts
Uncertainty
• Value assigned to a measurement result that
characterizes how well it is known/unknown

Measurement
Result

Potential Value

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Metrology Concepts
Traceability
• Unbroken chain of comparisons to the SI units, all
having stated uncertainties
NMI

You, the
Consumer

Inaccurate
Measurements

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Metrology Concepts
Calibration
• Set of operations that establish the relationship
between values of quantities indicated by a
measuring instrument and a reference standard

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Metrologist





Designs and runs
measurement calibrations
& tests
Analyzes the results
Determines the final
accuracy of the device
under test

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Metrologist

Calibration
Engineer

Calibration
Technician

Metrology Careers
Scientific Metrology
• Organization and development of measurement
standards and their maintenance (highest level)

NIST Atomic Clock
Accurate to 1 s in 20
million years

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Metrology Careers
Industrial Metrology
• Adequate functioning of measurement instruments
used in industry as well as production and testing
processes

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Metrology Careers
Legal Metrology
• Measurements that influence economic
transactions, health and safety

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Who Needs
Accurate Measurements?

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Pharmaceutical Industry


Metrology laboratories test
weights and volume standards
for pharmaceutical companies



Products include medicines like
aspirin, antibiotics, vaccines,
insulin, & vitamins

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Defense Industry


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many military
and defense companies



These companies make the
guidance systems for the
Patriot missiles and other
things that are top secret

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Space Station, Satellites….


Metrology laboratories test
standards for many companies
that provide parts of the space
shuttle



These parts include the metal,
heat shield, electronics, fabrics,
o-rings, optics, and tires

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Retail Measurements


State metrology laboratories
test standards used to test
retail scales and meters



These include gas pumps,
produce scales, milk, bread
and other packaged items,
and price scanning systems

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Who Needs Accurate
Measurements? Everybody!

Weights and Measures
measurements
affect more than $6.6
trillion of the $13.2
trillion
U.S. GDP (1996)

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Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physical Science

Physics
Material Properties

Math

Formula
Statistical Analysis

Computer Science

Automation
Programming
Database Building

Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

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Interested in Metrology?
Academic Subjects
Physics
Physical Science
Material Properties
“Metrology community
is
facing a shortage of
Formula
Math
qualified, trained
Statistical Analysis
metrology personnel
Automation
across the
U.S.”
Computer Science
Programming
Database Building
Writing Skills

Technical Writing
Management
Systems

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Metrology Ambassador
Program

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For More Information
NCSL International (NCSLI)
www.ncsli.org

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu

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Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

Special Thanks to
FreeFoto.com, www.sxc.hu,
Microsoft Office Clipart
Presentation Developed by
NCSLI Committee 164

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Questions, Comments,
Suggestions?

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