PHYS 6760 - Principles of Physical Measurement and Instrumentation

Quantitative measurements are performed in every area of science, engineering and technology - providing a critical comparison of reality with theoretical predictions. Measurements are also employed to control and diagnose physical processes. This course is focused on providing an understanding of the basic concepts of physical measurement and instrumentation, including noise, system characterization, calibration, systematic & statistical error analysis, dynamic system response, signal filtering/averaging, impedance effects and frequency/time domain analysis. A broad range of specific physical sensing methods will also be presented. In addition to the lectures, a weekly laboratory will help students apply the measurement concepts and methods to perform accurate position, acceleration, temperature, pressure, flow, electrical and magnetic measurements.