nollställning

Nollställning is the process of bringing an instrument's reading to zero or to a defined reference value, thereby establishing a baseline for subsequent measurements. It is used across metrology, instrumentation, and control systems, and may involve resetting a display, an offset, or a sensor output.

Origin: The compound comprises "nolla" (zero) and "ställning" (setting or adjustment) in Swedish. The concept is widely referred to as zeroing or calibration in other languages, but specific practices vary by instrument and domain.

In measurement and weighing, nollställning is routinely performed to remove residual bias or tare the instrument. For example, a digital scale can be tared to ignore container weight, or a dial gauge can be set to zero before measuring a part. In sensors, zeroing sets the output to a known reference when the measured quantity is at its reference value; auto-zero features adjust for small drift.

In firearms and optics, nollställning describes aligning sights, scopes, or iron sights with the point of impact at a chosen distance. The procedure typically involves firing a group at a target, then adjusting the sighting device until the aim and impact coincide. Conditions such as wind, temperature, and barrel wear affect results, so re-zeroing may be necessary over time or for different ammunition.

Environmental and instrument drift, temperature changes, aging, and mechanical wear can alter zero readings. Because of this, many systems require periodic re-zeroing or ongoing calibration against a traceable standard. Documentation records the reference value, method, and conditions used.

See also: calibration, offset, tare, reference standard, drift, re-zeroing.