referanseleder

Referanseleder, in Norwegian, denotes a conducting lead used to establish a stable reference potential in measurement systems. In practice, a referanseleder connects a reference point of a circuit or device to a reference electrode or to a common reference node, providing a known baseline for measurements and helping to reduce noise and the effects of electrode impedance.

Common applications include biomedical instrumentation such as electrocardiography (ECG), electroencephalography (EEG), and electromyography (EMG), as well as laboratory electrochemistry and various electronic test instruments. In these contexts the referanseleder often runs from the patient or sensor to the recording device and may be designed as a shielded, low-noise conductor to minimize electromagnetic interference. It is typically paired with a reference electrode and may be integrated into a full lead set or cable assembly.

Construction and design considerations focus on electrical performance and safety. A referanseleder is usually an insulated copper or copper-alloy conductor, sometimes arranged as a shielded cable or coaxial pair to reduce pickup of stray signals. Connectors are chosen for reliable, low-impedance connections, and materials are selected for flexibility, durability, and, in medical use, biocompatibility and ease of sterilization.

Safety and standards are important, especially in medical applications. Medical leads generally adhere to international standards for electrical safety and patient protection (for example, IEC 60601-series), with attention to insulation integrity, leakage current, and proper grounding.

See also: reference electrode, ground, shielding.