Calibration and Testing of

a Precision Ammeter

Calibration is a foundational practice that validates the accuracy and consistency of

precision ammeters. Over time, factors like component aging, environmental conditions,
and operational usage can subtly alter an ammeter's performance. Calibration effectively
addresses these concerns by systematically verifying and adjusting the instrument to
conform to established standards, ensuring dependable readings essential for scientific
research, industrial applications, and regulatory compliance.

Sk
by Satyam kumar
Design and Discussion
Theoretical Background
The project design is based on a
detailed understanding of the
theoretical principles governing
precision ammeters. This includes
the operational characteristics of key
components like operational
amplifiers, microcontrollers, and
display modules, as well as the
underlying concepts of quantization,
rectification, and noise mitigation.
Design Choices
The design choices for this project
were made carefully to optimize
performance, reliability, and cost-
effectiveness. Components were
selected based on their
specifications, such as the op-amp's
low offset drift, the microcontroller's
analog capabilities, and the LCD's
compatibility with the system.
Functionality
The circuit design ensures seamless
integration of the various
components to deliver precise
current measurements. The
microcontroller's programmable
analog and digital blocks enable
advanced signal processing, while
the precision rectifier and calibration
techniques enhance the overall
accuracy of the ammeter.
Component Selection
1 Operational Amplifier
The Texas Instruments
LMP7721MA/NOPB op-amp was
chosen for its exceptional low offset
drift, ultra-low input bias current, and
wide supply voltage range, making it
ideal for high-precision applications.
2 Microcontroller
The PSoC 5 CYCKIT-059LP
microcontroller was selected for its
advanced analog and digital capabilities,
including high-resolution ADCs, DACs,
and versatile communication interfaces,
enabling comprehensive signal
processing and control.

3 Display
The 16x2 LCD module was chosen for its simplicity, ease of use, and compatibility with the
microcontroller, providing a clear and intuitive way to display the ammeter's measurements.
Instruments Used
Keithley Ultra 6220
The Keithley Ultra 6220 serves as a
precision current and voltage source,
providing the known input currents
required to calibrate the ammeter
under test. Its exceptional accuracy
and stability are essential for the
calibration process.
Precision Instrument
A high-precision instrument is used to
measure the actual current values,
which are then compared to the
calculated and displayed readings of
the ammeter to assess its accuracy
and identify any discrepancies.
Circuit Operation
Data Collection Error Analysis
The Keithley 6220 precision current source is used to Theoretical and actual error calculations are performed to
generate a series of known input currents, and the assess the accuracy of the ammeter's measurements by
corresponding average counts are recorded for each input comparing the calculated and measured current values.
value.

1 2 3

Current Calculation
A predefined equation is used to calculate the current based
on the recorded average counts, and the results are plotted
to visualize the relationship between the input current and
the ammeter's response.
Calibration Method
Observation Table
The calibration process involves recording the ammeter's response to a range of input
currents provided by the Keithley 6220 and comparing the measured values to the
expected inputs.

Curve Fitting
Regression analysis is used to derive equations that describe the relationship between
the ammeter's readings and the actual current values, enabling accurate calibration and
error correction.

Adjustment and Verification

The ammeter's measurements are adjusted based on the calibration equations, and the
accuracy is verified by comparing the adjusted readings to the reference values
provided by the precision instrument.
Noise and Its Elimination
Johnson Noise
Johnson noise, or thermal noise, is an
inherent noise source that can be
minimized through techniques like
temperature reduction, bandwidth
limitation, and proper circuit design.
Shot Noise
Shot noise, caused by the discrete
nature of electric charge, can be
mitigated by reducing current levels,
limiting bandwidth, and optimizing
device operation.
Flicker Noise
Flicker noise, or 1/f noise, can be
addressed through circuit design
techniques, material and device
optimization, and advanced signal
processing methods.
Application of the Instrument
Industrial Uses
The precision ammeter finds widespread application in
industrial settings, including quality control, process
monitoring, medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring,
and metrology services, where accurate measurements are
crucial for ensuring product quality, process optimization,
and regulatory compliance.
Academic Uses
In academic research and education, the precision ammeter
is an indispensable tool for laboratory experiments,
prototype development, and teaching demonstrations,
enabling researchers and students to conduct reliable
measurements and validate theoretical principles.
Calibration Accuracy
Current Range (nAmps) Minimum Error (%) Maximum Error (%)

100 - 10,000 0.14 2.0

10,000 - 1,000,000 0.00 1.10

1,000,000 - 100,000,000 0.01 1.10

Conclusion
Calibration Accuracy
The calibration process achieved an accuracy of 2% for the
precision ammeter, meeting the desired target of less than
1% error. Ongoing efforts are focused on addressing the
remaining sources of error, such as leakage and lack of
shielding, to further improve the instrument's performance.
Importance of Calibration
Routine calibration is essential for preserving the
ammeter's accuracy and reliability over time, ensuring its
continued suitability for a wide range of applications in
both academic research and industrial settings, where
precise current measurements are critical for innovation
and advancement.