The Advantage of Instrument Adjustments with Tektronix Factory Calibration Service

For engineers and technical managers, maintaining the accuracy and traceability of test and measurement equipment is essential to ensuring product quality and regulatory compliance. One often-overlooked advantage of choosing Tektronix Factory Calibration over third-party providers is the inclusion of instrument adjustments at no additional cost—a benefit that becomes especially critical when dealing with Out-of-Tolerance (OOT) conditions.

Understanding Out-of-Tolerance (OOT) Events

An OOT event occurs when an instrument’s measured performance deviates beyond its specified limits. These deviations are typically identified during calibration by comparing the measured value to the specification limit, factoring in measurement uncertainty. For example:

OOT if: ∣ Measured Value−Nominal∣  > Tolerance Limit

OOT events are more common in aging equipment due to component drift, thermal cycling, or mechanical wear. Left unaddressed, they can compromise test integrity, leading to false product validation, field failures, or non-compliance with standards like ISO/IEC 17025 or ANSI/NCSL Z540.3. 

What Happens During an Instrument Adjustment? 

When Tektronix identifies an OOT condition, our technicians perform factory-authorized instrument adjustments using proprietary procedures and calibration software. This may include:  

• Realignment of internal voltage or timing references. 
• Firmware-based compensation for drift. 
• Recalibration across all specified ranges. 

These adjustments restore the instrument to original design specifications, ensuring continued accuracy and compliance. 

Why Tektronix Factory Calibration is Superior 

Instrument Adjustments 

Unlike third-party providers, Tektronix includes adjustments in the base calibration service. This eliminates the need for additional service orders or fees when an OOT condition is found. 

Time Efficiency 

Third-party labs often lack the tools or authorization to adjust Tektronix instruments. They must ship the unit back to Tektronix, introducing delays. Tektronix Factory Calibration avoids this by performing adjustments on-site or in-facility, reducing turnaround time. 

Cost Savings

Third-party calibration providers can in some cases double your calibration costs due to: 

• Adjustment fees. 
• Recalibration charges post-adjustment. 
• Additional shipping and handling. 

Tektronix includes all of this in a single, flat-rate service. 

Expertise and Accreditation 

With over 65 years of experience and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited service centers, Tektronix ensures your equipment is calibrated to the highest industry standards using OEM procedures and parts. 

Conclusion 

For engineers managing high-precision test environments, Tektronix Factory Calibration offers a technically superior and economically smarter solution. By including adjustments at no extra cost, we help you: 

• Minimize downtime. 
• Avoid hidden service fees. 
• Maintain measurement integrity. 

Contact us today at 1-800-438-8165 or read more about our Factory Verified Calibration Services options and learn how Tektronix can support your calibration needs.