Focus on Global Terminology

This month’s term:

measuring range

a set of values of measurands for which the error of a measuring instrument is intended to lie within specified limits(VIM93); NOTE 1 [VIM93] "Error" is determined in relation to a conventional true value; NOTE 2 [VIM93] In some fields of knowledge, the difference between the greatest and smallest values is called range; NOTE 3 CLSI document EP6 (Linearity) defines measurung range as the range of values (in units appropriate for the analyte [measurand]) over which the acceptability criteria for the method have been met; that is, where errors due to nonlinearity, imprecision, or other sources are within defined limits; NOTE 4 [CLSI ILA21: Immunoassays] The reportable range of the assay should be established prior to beginning the clinical evaluation; NOTE 5 The preferred international term is measuring range; NOTE 6 Formerly, the term "reportable range" was used in CLSI documents; NOTE 7 Alternate Term: "working range."

For complete details on these and other internationally accepted terms, visit the Harmonized Terminology Database.  In the database, find standard, internationally preferred terms and definitions, related terms, terms that are not acceptable in the international standards community, and illustrative notes and examples. [ return to top ]