FAQ 1: Calibration of EXFO products
ISO 17025 purports that the user is responsible for determining the recalibration date according to the actual use of the instrument. There are a number of factors that affect instrument performance during operation such as the environmental conditions to which it may be exposed and whether or not the user follows proper connection recommendations. All of these elements must be taken into consideration when determining the appropriate calibration interval of the particular EXFO instrument.
In order to ensure appropriate calibration follow-up, EXFO has applied a special label to instrument; this label complies with the ISO 17025 standard and indicates the previous and next calibration verification dates. However, until the required empirical data has been collected, EXFO recommends that the next calibration date of an instrument be established according to the following equation:
Next calibration date = date of first usage + recommended calibration period
In order to ensure that EXFO test and measurement instruments conform to the published specifications following this date, calibration may be carried out at the EXFO plant, or, depending on the product, at an EXFO Service Center.
FAQ 2: Storage and recalibration date of finished goods
In keeping with its commitment to offer its customers high-quality and reliable products that surpass published specifications, EXFO has undertaken to ensure that the storage period between calibration and product shipment does not have an adverse effect on the performance of the products.
Following a detailed analysis of those factors arising from storage that might potentially degrade the calibration, EXFO guarantees that the storage period indicated below will not affect the performance of the products or the recommended operation time period before requiring calibration verification:
- IQS and other laboratory products can be stored for a maximum period of three (3) months
- The portable and field-designed FTB products can be stored for a maximum period of six (6) months
