What Happens if My Device Fails Calibration?

Updated Jul 30, 2026

Issue Details

I submitted my device for calibration and would like to understand the following:

  • Will calibration fix my unit?
  • What repair service is performed before calibration?
  • What is the process if calibration fails?

Solution

Calibration is performed to verify and adjust a device so that it meets its published specifications. If a device is found to be out of specification, the calibration laboratory will determine whether it can be brought back into compliance through the calibration process or whether additional service is required.
 

Will Calibration Fix My Unit?

 

It depends on the reason the device failed calibration.

If the device fails the As Found limit tests but does not exhibit indications of hardware failure, calibration personnel will typically attempt to calibrate and adjust the device to bring it back within specification.

If the device subsequently passes the As Left tests, no additional repair service is required, and the calibration process can be completed successfully.

However, if the device continues to fail the As Left tests after calibration adjustments have been performed, the device may require repair before it can be returned to specification. In this case, you may be contacted regarding repair options.

 

What Repair Service Has Been Performed Before Calibration?

 

In general, calibration services are not intended to repair hardware before calibration begins.

If a device fails the As Found tests, the calibration laboratory will first attempt the applicable calibration adjustments, provided there are no indications of a hardware fault.

A repair service is typically considered only when:

  • The device reports a hardware-related error or failure.
  • The device cannot be adjusted to meet specification during calibration.
  • The device fails the As Left tests after calibration adjustments have been completed.

In these situations, the device may need to be evaluated and repaired before calibration can be successfully completed.

 

What Is the Process if Calibration Fails?

 

If a device cannot be returned to specification through the calibration process, NI may contact you to discuss available repair options. The next steps depend on the product and the services available for that device. Once any required repairs are completed, the unit can be recalibrated to verify that it meets specification

Additional Information

Calibration and repair are separate services with different objectives:

  • Calibration verifies and adjusts device performance to meet published specifications.
  • Repair addresses hardware issues that prevent the device from meeting those specifications, or if the hardware is presenting an error overall.

A device that is initially out of specification may still be successfully calibrated without requiring repair. Repair is generally only necessary when calibration alone cannot restore the device to specification, or when the unit present an error or issue specifically.