Response time

nounStandard termMetrology

The duration required for an instrument to react to a sudden change in the measured quantity.

The time it takes for an instrument's output to reach and settle at a new value after an abrupt step change in the input. If a technician records a reading before the response time has elapsed, the measurement will contain a dynamic error. It is especially critical in temperature and pressure calibrations where sensors lag behind the environment.

Heard on the job

You have to wait at least three minutes per point because the response time on this PRT is terrible.