Understanding Total Measurement Uncertainty in Power Meters and Detectors

Author: Jay Jeong
Saturday, December 1, 2018
MKS/Newport

It is important that users of calibrated power meters and detectors understand the total uncertainty or error that exists in their measurements. Often, users assume that the rated calibration uncertainty of the Newport detector or power meter is the only error in their measurements, however, other factors also contribute to measurement uncertainty. Total measurement error is the sum of all possible sources of error, with detector or meter uncertainty being one of multiple sources of error in the measurement. While it is always a challenge to know exactly how much error the measurement system has, there are certain identifiable factors that should be taken into consideration when estimating total measurement uncertainty in detectors or power meters. This discussion will review the different contributors to measurement error and how they may be incorporated into an estimate of the total measurement uncertainty.