In the world of precision measurement, understanding the difference between calibration, adjustment, and verification is essential for ensuring accuracy, compliance, and performance. At International Process Solutions (IPS), we provide world-class services across our San Diego calibration lab, Orange County calibration lab, and San Carlos calibration lab, ensuring that your instruments deliver reliable results in every application.

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Defining Calibration, Adjustment, and Verification

Calibration

Calibration is the process of comparing an instrument’s measurements to a traceable reference standard to determine its accuracy. This reference standard is typically aligned with NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) or other recognized metrology bodies.

When performing calibration, we:

• Record the instrument’s readings at multiple test points.
• Compare results to known standards.
• Document any measurement deviations.

At IPS, our ISO 17025-accredited labs in San Diego, Orange County, and San Carlos use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure each calibration meets or exceeds industry requirements. Calibration does not automatically change or correct the instrument—it simply identifies how accurate it is at the time of testing.

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Adjustment

Adjustment involves changing the instrument’s settings to bring its measurements within acceptable tolerances. This process is performed after calibration if the readings are outside specified limits.

Adjustment can include:

• Mechanical tuning.
• Software configuration changes.
• Electrical parameter modification.

Our expert technicians ensure that adjustments are performed according to manufacturer specifications while preserving the integrity and longevity of your equipment. At IPS, adjustments are always documented and verified to maintain full compliance with your quality management system.

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Verification

Verification is the process of confirming that an instrument meets predefined specifications without altering its settings. Unlike calibration, verification is a pass/fail assessment that does not require recording detailed measurement data.

Verification is commonly used:

• During incoming inspection of new equipment.
• As part of preventive maintenance schedules.
• To validate compliance before critical operations.

IPS offers verification services for industries such as pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and manufacturing, ensuring your instruments remain compliant between scheduled calibrations.

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Why the Distinction Matters for Quality and Compliance

Mixing up calibration, adjustment, and verification can lead to compliance violations, costly downtime, and product quality issues. Regulatory bodies like the FDA, ISO, and AS9100 require that companies maintain clear records distinguishing between these processes.

At IPS, we maintain strict procedural controls:

• Every calibration includes traceability documentation.
• Adjustments are only performed when approved by the client.
• Verification reports are issued separately from calibration certificates.

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Calibration in San Diego, Orange County, and San Carlos

As a trusted provider, IPS operates advanced calibration facilities strategically located to serve California’s leading industries:

• San Diego Calibration Lab – Specializing in biotech, pharmaceutical, and medical device calibration with full ISO 17025 accreditation.
• Orange County Calibration Lab – Serving aerospace, defense, and manufacturing clients with rapid turnaround and on-site services.
• San Carlos Calibration Lab – Supporting semiconductor, electronics, and industrial clients with both lab and field calibration capabilities.

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The IPS Calibration Process

Our comprehensive calibration process ensures your equipment is accurate, compliant, and ready for operation:

1. Receiving & Inspection – Instruments are logged, visually inspected, and checked for physical damage.
2. Pre-Calibration Testing – Measurements are taken before any adjustments to determine current performance.
3. Calibration – The instrument is tested against traceable standards using certified equipment.
4. Adjustment (if required) – Parameters are tuned to restore accuracy.
5. Post-Calibration Verification – Ensures accuracy after any adjustments.
6. Certification & Documentation – Detailed calibration certificates are issued with traceability, environmental conditions, and measurement uncertainties.

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Industries That Rely on Precise Measurement

We proudly serve industries where measurement accuracy is mission-critical:

• Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology – Complying with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and cGMP standards.
• Aerospace & Defense – Meeting AS9100 and NADCAP calibration requirements.
• Manufacturing & Engineering – Ensuring consistent product quality through precise process control.
• Semiconductor & Electronics – Supporting ultra-precise measurements for cutting-edge technology production.

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On-Site vs. In-Lab Calibration

IPS offers both in-lab and on-site calibration to meet operational needs:

• In-Lab Calibration – Ideal for instruments requiring controlled environmental conditions and high-accuracy reference standards.
• On-Site Calibration – Minimizes downtime by calibrating equipment at your facility, reducing the need for shipment and handling.

Our mobile calibration teams are equipped with portable precision standards to deliver the same quality service you receive in our labs.

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Documentation and Traceability

Accurate measurement is only valuable when it’s documented and traceable. Every IPS calibration, adjustment, and verification service includes:

• Calibration Certificates with full traceability to NIST or equivalent standards.
• Environmental Conditions during testing.
• Measurement Uncertainty calculations.
• Before and After Data (when applicable).

This meticulous documentation helps our clients pass audits, inspections, and compliance reviews with confidence.

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Why Choose International Process Solutions

• ISO 17025 Accreditation – Recognized competence in calibration and testing.
• Expert Technicians – Years of hands-on experience in diverse industries.
• Advanced Technology – Latest calibration standards and precision instruments.
• Fast Turnaround – Streamlined processes to minimize equipment downtime.
• Custom Solutions – Tailored services for unique operational requirements.

With labs in San Diego, Orange County, and San Carlos, we offer unmatched convenience and expertise to clients throughout California.

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Conclusion

Understanding the difference between calibration, adjustment, and verification ensures that your measurement instruments remain accurate, compliant, and reliable. At International Process Solutions, we deliver comprehensive, accredited, and traceable services that keep your operations running at peak performance. Whether you need lab-based calibration or on-site service, IPS is your trusted partner for measurement excellence.

For more information or to request a service, visit our website: https://ips-us.com

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International Process Solutions – Your partner in precision across San Diego, Orange County, and San Carlos.