Feature: T&M
In measurement applications, power may not always be the first thing design engineers think of. Yet, if there was to be a sudden loss of power, then all results could be lost
Avoiding errors A few weeks after the $4.7bn launch of the Hubble Space Telescope in 1990, an error became apparent to the NASA team; the images returned by the telescope were not as sharp as needed. This was caused by a problem with the telescope’s optic system, because the outer perimeter of the primary mirror was 2.2cm too flat. An investigation into how this occurred pointed to a
Battery challenges in test and measurement equipment
By Rob Brown, Marketing Executive, Accutronics
M
easurement is a fundamental requirement of the scientific and engineering disciplines. Without precise measurements as a basis, all future work is doomed to inaccuracy or ineffectuality. Therefore, it’s
vital that test instrumentation can be relied on to provide consistent, accurate measurements – and batteries play a significant role.
38 December/January 2021
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
reflective null corrector, a device used to test and properly shape non-spherical mirrors. This device had been assembled specifically for the telescope’s construction, but incorrectly with a lens 1.3mm out of position. The slight difference had a significant impact on the
usefulness of the telescope, until it was corrected three years later. This led to a series of expensive launches to fit and replace instrumentation over the years that followed. Although most instrumentation applications tend to be
closer to home, the Hubble Space Telescope highlights how even slight deviations in measurement can have significant consequences. Design engineers working on test and measurement
equipment aim to guarantee precision by specifying high- quality components and ensuring designs are fit for purpose and functional. One of these components is the power source.
Power Power may not always be the first thing design engineers think of when considering how to ensure reliability and accuracy in test and instrumentation. Yet, if there was to be a sudden loss of power, due to either a mains electrical fault or battery failure, then all results could be lost. Likewise, dips in energy delivered to a digital device can affect its recorded measurements. When choosing the optimum power source, it is important
to consider the device’s intended application and the environment where it will operate. If the device is manned, portable or in regular use, then a secondary (rechargeable) battery may be best suited, because it can communicate information to the user – such as battery health and state-of- charge – to advise when it needs to be charged or replaced. Alternatively, if the device is used in a location where
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