A Classification System for Measurement and Control

This paper describes a new approach for the classification of instruments for measurement and control. Most of the previous classifications grouped the instruments according to their input and output characteristics, this new classification groups the instruments in terms of precision, dynanic behavior, shelf life, reliability of operation and purchase characteristics; such as cost, availability and volume. Each characteristic is specified by a decimal digit. Each digit number defines the performance of instruments for a specific quality within one order of magnitude. This classification serves the systems engineers for a selection of compatible instruments to solve a specific problem of measuremnt or control. A perforated card system is described permitting the selection of suitable instruments once the performance parameters for a specific problem has been established. This classification was established for and with the cooperation of the Institute of Radio Engineers Sub-committee 10.3 of Industrial Electronics.