On the accuracy and repeatability of thermal transient measurements

After a brief introduction to the concept of measurement uncertainty, the chapter presents the major factors that typically contribute to it. The major terms used in the characterization of the measurement of a physical quantity, such as accuracy, precision, and resolution is discussed first in general, using the uncertainty factors of temperature measurements as an example. An inventory of the factors affecting the uncertainty of thermal transient measurements is provided: the effects of the test equipment, reproducibility of the test environment and the calibration process, and the data processing techniques are discussed in detail, highlighting the importance of selecting the initial transient correction method.