As a calibration technician, you may encounter the terms "as found" and "as left" when you perform calibrations in your lab. What do these terms mean and why are they important?
As found refers to the initial calibration of an instrument when it arrives in your lab. This calibration measures the actual responses of the instrument for various input values. For example, if you are testing a voltmeter that has a range of 0 to 5 volts, and you apply an input of 3 volts, the instrument might display 3.1 volts. This means that the as found value is 3.1 volts.
As left refers to the final calibration of an instrument after you make any adjustments or repairs to correct its performance. This calibration verifies that the instrument meets the specifications and accuracy requirements. For example, if you adjust the voltmeter to display 3 volts for an input of 3 volts, then the as left value is 3 volts.
As found and as left values are important because they document the condition and performance of the instrument before and after the calibration. They also help you determine if the instrument needs any adjustments or repairs, and if it is suitable for its intended use.
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