Accuracy or fidelity:

It is the ability of an instrument to give the same value of the magnitude measured when
performing the measurement several times under the same conditions.

From another point of view, the sum of all random errors determines the accuracy of a
measurement system. As these errors follow a Gaussian statistic, the standard deviation of a series
of measurements obtained under the same conditions is taken as the precision.

Accordingly, precision is not corrected by calibration, but by applying statistical methods to a series
of measurements; so the greater the number of measurements, the greater the accuracy.

Sensitivity:

If x is the input signal of the measuring system and F (x) is the output (input function), the
sensitivity is defined as:

x
( 0)=s (x0 )
dF

dx

That is, the sensitivity is the slope of the calibration curve, and that if F (x) is a linear relation, the
sensitivity is constant, but if it is a quadratic relation or a higher order, the sensitivity is variable
with respect to entry. Physically then the sensitivity is greater if the change or derivative of the
output with respect to the input is greater.

Linearity:

The concept of linearity is widely used in analytical and industrial instrumentation, however, its
definition is often confused and its determination can become complex. Linearity is an important
property of the methods used to perform measurements over a range of concentrations. The
linearity of the pure pattern response (MRC) and realistic samples can be determined. Linearity is
generally not quantified, but is checked by inspection or using non-linearity significance tests.
Significant nonlinearity is usually corrected by using non-linear or eliminated calibration functions
by selecting a more restricted operating range. Any residual deviation from linearity is usually
accounted for by the global accuracy estimate covering various concentrations, or within any
uncertainties associated with calibration.

The perfect linearity would allow the output versus the input to be plotted as a straight line.
Linearity is a constancy of the output and input ratio.

Hysteresis:

Maximum difference between readings, for the same input, when the variable travels the entire
scale in both directions: ascending and descending.
Scope:

It is the interval where an instrument can offer reliable measurements.

A PID is a feedback control mechanism that calculates the deviation or error between a measured
value and the value to be obtained, to apply a corrective action that adjusts the process.

Conceptually, automation is based on a repeated application of the feedback mechanism and,

therefore, it is in that sense related to Control and Systems Theories. As for its technological
aspect, it can be said that it has always been "at the last", adopting at every historical moment the
most recent advances

The algorithm for calculating the PID control is given in three different parameters: the
proportional, the integral, and the derivative. The Proportional value determines the reaction of
the current error. The Integral generates a correction proportional to the integral of the error, this
assures us that, applying a sufficient control effort, the tracking error is reduced to zero. The
Derivative determines the reaction of the time in which the error occurs. The sum of these three
actions is used to adjust the process via a control element such as the position of a control valve or
the power supplied to a heater. Note that the use of PID for control does not guarantee optimum
control of the system or its stability. Some applications may only require one or two modes
provided by this control system. A PID controller can also be called PI, PD, P or I.