autozeroing

Autozeroing is a feature found in some electronic measuring instruments that automatically calibrates the instrument to read zero when no signal is present. This process helps to eliminate errors caused by baseline drift or offset voltages. When an instrument autozeroes, it measures the current output without any input signal and then subtracts this value from subsequent measurements. This ensures that the displayed reading accurately reflects the magnitude of the input signal, rather than being skewed by internal instrument characteristics or environmental factors.

The autozeroing function is typically initiated by the user through a dedicated button or menu option. Some instruments may also perform autozeroing automatically at regular intervals or when significant temperature changes are detected. The exact implementation and effectiveness of autozeroing can vary depending on the instrument's design and the type of measurement being performed. For applications requiring high precision, such as in scientific research or industrial process control, autozeroing is a crucial feature for maintaining measurement accuracy over time. It is particularly useful in instruments that measure small signals or are susceptible to noise.