Tutorial Workshops

This course is an introduction to design, construction, evolution, practical use, and common errors associated with dry block temperature calibrators. The course will start by examining known temperature calibration devices, including their benefits and limitations. It will progress to discuss dry block calibrator design, evolution, and progression to the current level of temperature standard. The material will include dry block selection, use, best practices, set up, care, misuses, and common issues experienced while using dry block calibrators. The course will finish with hands-on activities with various levels of dry block calibrators.

This course is an introduction to the design, construction, theory of operation, practical use, and common errors associated with deadweight pressure testers. The course will start by explaining the theory of operation of deadweight pressure testers. It will include details on piston gauges and ball type testers. The material will include deadweight tester use, best practices, set up, care, misuses, and common issues experienced while using deadweight testers including a section on site corrections with examples. The course will finish with hands-on activities with a deadweight pressure tester.

Let’s go beyond the theory-heavy lectures. This half-day workshop gets you measuring within minutes. Whether you're new to uncertainty analysis or a seasoned metrologist looking to revisit the fundamentals, this workshop meets you where you are. After a brief overview of uncertainty fundamentals, you'll dive straight into hands-on measurements using simple balances and dimensional tools. You'll generate real data, wrestle with variability, and build real uncertainty budgets. Finally, you will evaluate the uncertainty you calculated to ensure it is “fit-for-purpose.” This is measurement uncertainty, the way it should be learned: by doing. While the workshop uses simple measuring instruments, the concepts and techniques transfer directly to whatever you measure back in your lab. What to bring: A laptop with the capability access the internet and Excel or Google Sheets. Basic spreadsheet skills required. What you'll take away: A completed uncertainty budget based on your measurements, along with a flexible worksheet template ready to use in your lab. Come ready to measure. Leave ready to quantify uncertainty.

This tutorial provides an overview of industry best practice calibration process management solutions that are tailored towards optimizing compliance while reducing costs and providing significant competitive advantage. Several examples of innovative calibration process improvements will be described. The course will provide a thorough review of fundamental calibration concepts and regulatory requirements.  Consideration for optimizing cGMP calibration service provider qualification and approval will be provided as well.

Measurement Uncertainty for Mass Measurements This presentation provides a practical approach to calculating an uncertainty budget for mass measurements using balances and scales in accordance with internationally accepted metrological principles. Participants will learn how to identify and evaluate the various sources of uncertainty that influence mass measurements, including: Calibration uncertainty Balance readability (resolution) Repeatability Instrument drift Eccentric loading Sensitivity Air buoyancy (where applicable) Environmental influences and other relevant uncertainty contributors The course explains how to characterize each uncertainty contributor, determine the appropriate probability distribution, calculate the standard uncertainty for each component, and combine the individual standard uncertainties using the root-sum-of-squares (RSS) method to obtain the combined standard uncertainty. Participants will also learn how to calculate the expanded uncertainty using an appropriate coverage factor and how to report measurement results in compliance with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and the principles of the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM). Through practical examples and worked calculations, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to develop, review, and apply uncertainty budgets for mass measurements within calibration and testing laboratories.

The General Metrology Fundamentals course offers a practical, one-day introduction to the essential concepts of measurement science and its role in quality, manufacturing, and laboratory environments. Participants explore how metrology functions as a system—connecting measurement units, standards, traceability, and calibration processes across industries. The class features hands-on dimensional measurement exercises using calipers, micrometers, and gauge blocks, helping students connect theory to real-world practice. Key topics include an overview of the International System of Units (SI), the purpose and structure of calibration systems, basic uncertainty concepts, and the importance of documentation and traceability. Designed for both newcomers and experienced professionals seeking a refresher, this course provides a clear foundation for understanding how accurate measurements underpin reliability and compliance in any technical field.

8 Hour hands-on course covering resistance measurements from 1 µΩ to 100 TΩ. Session A focuses on low to mid-range values based on current and high range values based on voltage, while session B will cover very low resistance and high currents. Session A will provide deep analysis into the characteristics and variables that affect test setups, measurement results and uncertainties. Special attention is covered for variables including resistance design, impact of wiring, proper guarding and grounding as well as well material contributions to uncertainty such as environmental, power and temperature coefficients, voltage coefficients, and individual drift of standards (with linear regression). Addressing these contributions in an uncertainty analysis will be provided. Session B (4 hours) overviews Precision DC high current measurements and high current sourcing using a 300A current source, several different types of current shunts and associated types of high current cabling. Participants will be able to use different setups and have hands-on practice and to see how different setups affect measurements. Involvement in this workshop will provide the participants with tangible demonstration of the considerations to making best and consistent measurements with high current. The participant will receive not only the best practices for these measurements, but the understanding why the techniques demonstrated are the best practices. Design considerations of high current standards will also be discussed. The measurements with high current will be explored from the perspective of measurement uncertainty such that the effect of the consideration outlined can be quantified in a real-world, practical uncertainty budget. Measurement parasites that affect high current measurements will also be covered as well as Safety considerations in high current measurements.

The RF & Microwave Calibration Fundamentals course provides technicians with a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of calibrating radio frequency (RF) and microwave measurement systems. This hands-on program emphasizes the critical aspects of connector care—including pin depth inspection and cleaning techniques—to ensure measurement integrity at high frequencies. Key topics include the basics of VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) using handheld vector network analyzers (VNAs), measurement of insertion loss, fundamentals of spectrum analysis, reactance, decibels, and power (watts) in RF applications. Students will engage in practical exercises to reinforce concepts, gain confidence with industry-standard equipment, and develop the troubleshooting skills necessary for high-reliability RF and microwave calibrations. The course is ideal for calibration technicians, engineers, and quality professionals entering or working in RF and microwave environments.

Nonconformances, out-of-tolerance (OOT) results, and calibration anomalies show up in every GMP-regulated facility — but too many investigations turn into paperwork exercises instead of real problem-solving. This half-day, hands-on tutorial reframes investigation writing as detective work: participants take on the role of “quality investigators,” working through interactive case studies and simulated calibration/OOT and Nonconformance scenarios to practice scoping impact, applying root cause tools (5 Why, fishbone, fault tree), and building conclusions that hold up under audit and FDA scrutiny. Expect small-group exercises, live problem-solving, and practical takeaways (templates and checklists) attendees can apply immediately. Designed for quality engineers, calibration/metrology technicians, validation specialists, and QA reviewers with some hands-on exposure to deviation/investigation systems. Learning level: Intermediate. Format: Half-day.

Level 2 Radio Frequency (RF) concepts build upon basic wave behavior to cover intermediate propagation, advanced signal characteristics, antenna properties, and basic circuit components like parasitic capacitance and inductance. Multi-path propagation: Signals bounce off obstacles, creating multiple paths for waves to reach a receiver. Phase shifts: Reflected waves can arrive out of phase, causing constructive or destructive interference. Fading and attenuation: Slow and fast fading occur due to environmental changes, physical absorption, and diffraction.

Accurate temperature measurement is critical across industries yet building, using and troubleshooting the physical sensor assembly can be challenging. Thermocouple Basics and Beyond: Everything You Need to Know to Get Accurate Temperature Readings bridges the gap between foundational theory and practical bench skills, focusing directly on widely used base metal thermocouples like Type K. Beginners will start with the absolute fundamentals, learning how Type K and other base metal wire combinations generate voltage to measure heat. Intermediate users will quickly expand their skills by diving into system wiring, rugged insulation techniques, and precise testing. Attendees will learn how to measure microvolt signals, diagnose hardware failures, and verify sensor accuracy. Hands-on activities will guide them through the process of handling bare wire, utilizing high-temperature ceramic insulators, and terminating connections with standard and miniature connectors. By combining deep technical knowledge with practical assembly and troubleshooting skills, this course gives every participant the confidence to build, test, and maintain reliable base temperature-sensing systems. Key Learning Takeaways The Big Picture: Thermocouples are the most popular temperature sensors in the world. They are tough, cheap, and can measure extreme heat. The Seebeck Effect: Understand the physics behind how two pieces of metal turn heat into electrical signals. Anatomy of a Thermocouple: Thermocouples do not measure the temperature at the hot tip. They measure the temperature difference between the Hot Junction and the Cold Junction. Thermocouple Types: Base Metal (K, J, T, E and N), Noble Metal (R, S and B) and Non-Standard Types. Polarity and Color Codes (How Not to Mix Them Up): Thermocouples use Direct Current (DC). Polarity matters! If you wire it backward, your temperature reading will go down when the heat goes up. Measurement and Error Analysis: How to read its signal accurately and find out where signal errors come from. The Law of Intermediate Metals: States that inserting a third metal into a thermocouple circuit does not change the total voltage (EMF) generated, as long as the two new contact junctions are at the exact same temperature. Diagnose and Fix Errors: Troubleshoot bad joints, broken insulation, green-rot, and signal noise.

This tutorial will present and examine a number of basic elements relating to the functions, features and concerns of a working calibration/testing lab & its personnel. This selection of topics is not traditionally covered in a Metrology training seminar. Design of this presentation covers items more of interest to individuals who are working in new disciplines, their Managers, Leads, Trainers or those whose formal calibration/testing experience has been limited to “On the Job Training” (OJT). Emphasis has been made to combine a series of short overviews that will provide a broad spectrum of information to lead the student to further pursue those topics of priority or interest. This real world approach builds upon elements of specific skill sets, both technical and standard compliance, measurement quality programs and its impact on performance. Topics to be presented Fun Facts of Metrology- Tim Mason Resistance is Futile – Tim Stark Calibrators and DMM’s- Jack Somppi Dimensional Basics- Dr. Jim Salsbury Artificial Intelligence and Metrology – Michael Schwartz The Making of a Good Metrologist; Why do we need a certification – Michael Schwartz Under Pressure – James Wagner Humidity Basics- James Wagner Big String Bang Theory- How to calibrate a length of String- Jesse Morse Open topics -question and answers Who Should Attend? All Metrology personnel, Calibration Managers & related staff, Instrument, Test & Quality engineers, wanting to augment or reinforce current skills, Companies & Programs looking into creating or extending their calibration/testing functions. Current “Program” representatives interested in enhancing their understanding of the measurement field and Metrology/Calibration/ Test technicians who are looking to expand their skill set with a broader knowledge of the application of measurement science

This half-day tutorial will introduce the attendee to some of the basic motivations, terminology and theory involved with making sound and vibrations measurements. Subjects covered will include why we measure sound and vibration, typical applications and the sensors used to make these kinds of measurements. Discussion will also cover how these measurements are made using today’s modern data acquisition equipment and the challenges involved with making quality measurements. This tutorial is designed to benefit the metrologist that is interested in how microphones and accelerometers they calibrate are used and the test engineer that is moving into the field of making sound and vibration measurements.

The modern understanding of weighing metrology has had to change! The traditional approach of treating weighing in the same way as less nuanced disciplines of metrology has caused a mix of too much testing, inappropriate testing and often use tolerances that are too tight to be realistic for the given location/application. This results in a significant number of methods not actually achieving their metrological goals! Authorities have recognized that the roll-off of the measurement uncertainty components of an electronic weighing device is very different than the uncertainty roll-off on mechanical balances and scales. National and International Standards are being updated to reflect modern mass metrological science. We will break down how measurement uncertainty exhibits itself across the capacity of an electronic balance or scale and cover how to correctly assess and assign a Measurement Uncertainty budget. We will discuss modern, robust, risk-based approaches to the assesment and estimation of significant, contributing uncertainty components in order to build a thorough, scientifically-sound, risk-based program for bench or floor weighing instruments. Time will be spent covering phenomena that affect the accuracy of weighing, to illustrate how easy it is to create poor weight data! To contrast this, you will learn how to overcome these potential sources of error, and optimize a balance metrology and service regime. This course focuses on: User testing Balance location and set up Factors influencing Measurement Uncertainty Common problems, and how to overcome Factors influencing repeatability Service needs for balances and scales Increasing productivity from your weighing equipment

The Level 1 Temperature Calibration program delivers an in-depth introduction to temperature measurement and calibration techniques for laboratory and field environments. Key topics include principles of temperature, ITS-90, thermometer types (liquid-in-glass, PRTs, thermocouples), use of dry wells and liquid baths, uncertainty analysis, and documentation. Students engage in guided exercises to calibrate thermometers and interpret calibration data, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with practical skill-building. The program is aligned with industry standards and prepares technicians for advanced training in temperature metrology.

Proficiency Testing (PT) and Interlaboratory Comparisons (ILC) play a critical role in demonstrating the technical competence of calibration laboratories and ensuring the reliability of measurement results. Accreditation requirements, such as ISO/IEC 17025 and related policies, emphasize participation in PT/ILC programs as a key component of laboratory quality management and continual improvement. By the end of the session, attendees will gain the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen their laboratory’s PT/ILC approach, improve measurement reliability, and sustain long-term accreditation compliance.

AC-DC Difference metrology is a method of accurately measuring a Root Mean Square (RMS) Alternating Current (AC) waveform at a specific frequency. This measurement is done through the use of special devices known as Thermal Voltage Converters (TVCs) and Multi-Junction Thermal Voltage Converters (MJTVCs), and a comparison to a precision Direct Current (DC) voltage.   This tutorial will cover the history, theory, setup, procedure, and practical applications of precision AC-DC Difference metrology. There will be examples of both AC-DC Voltage and AC-DC Current measurements. The automated AC-DC Difference Major Measurement System at Sandia National Labs will be examined. The class will look at typical uncertainty contributors for AC-DC Measurements. Finally, new quantum-based methods of AC measurements will be examined.

This vibration calibration class will dive into calibration theory, standards, and methodology for dynamic sensors as well as detailed construction of different sensor types and the operational theories behind them. The class will include several hands-on experiments and live demonstrations using Accelerometers and a Portable Calibration system. The target audience is a beginner to intermediate level.

Personnel Competency Framework and Management A Personnel Competency Framework is a structured system that defines the knowledge, skills, experience, and behaviours required for personnel to perform their roles competently and consistently. It provides organizations with a systematic approach to recruiting, training, assessing, and developing personnel, while ensuring compliance with accreditation and regulatory requirements. This course provides practical guidance on developing, implementing, and maintaining a Personnel Competency Framework that meets the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017, ISO/IEC 17020:2012, and other applicable management system standards. Participants will learn how to: Define roles, responsibilities, and competency requirements. Establish competency criteria for technical and management personnel. Develop competency matrices and assessment tools. Determine proficiency levels and qualification requirements. Plan and manage training, mentoring, and authorization processes. Evaluate and document competency through objective evidence. Monitor competency, identify training needs, and implement continual improvement. Maintain competency records that support accreditation assessments and audits. Through practical examples and hands-on exercises using a spreadsheet-based competency management system, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to develop, review, implement, and manage a comprehensive Personnel Competency Framework within calibration laboratories, testing laboratories, and inspection bodies. By the end of the presentation, participants will have the skills to establish a sustainable competency management process that supports technical competence, organizational performance, and continual compliance with international accreditation requirements.