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Blog

Welcome to Fox Valley Metrology’s blog. Your one stop shop to keep up to date with all the latest trends in the quality industry on topics such as quality assurance, calibration, measurement, metrology and more.

What is a Caliper

What Is A Caliper?

Learn what a caliper is, how it works, and why it’s a must-have tool for accurate measurements, quality control, and dimensional consistency.

The History of the Caliper

The History Of Calipers

Discover the history of the caliper, from ancient Egyptian and Greek tools to modern digital designs shaping precision and innovation today.

What Does a Caliper Measure

What Does A Caliper Measure?

Learn what measurements a caliper can take, including outside, inside, depth, and step dimensions, and why these measurements matter.

Types of Calipers

Types Of Calipers

Learn the main types of calipers including Vernier, Dial, and Digital and discover their uses, pros, cons, and best applications.

Anatomy of a Caliper

The Anatomy Of A Caliper

Learn the parts of a caliper and how each component from jaws to digital features helps ensure precise and accurate measurements.

Caliper Accuracy

Caliper Accuracy

Learn what the accuracy of your caliper means, why it matters, and how it impacts measurement confidence, quality, and inspection results.

Caliper Accessories and Features

Caliper Features And Accessories

Discover key caliper features to consider before buying including IP ratings, SPC data, hold functions, and unit switching for precision.

What to Consider When Buying a Caliper

What To Consider When Buying A Caliper

Discover the most important factors to consider when buying a caliper so you select the right tool for accurate, reliable measurements.

How to Use a Caliper

How To Use A Caliper

Discover how to properly use a caliper with step-by-step guidance to ensure accurate, consistent, and reliable measurements.

Common Uses and Applications of Calipers

Common Uses And Applications Of A Caliper

Discover the many uses of calipers across industries and everyday projects, from precision manufacturing to DIY measurement tasks.

Care and Maintenance of Calipers

Care And Maintenance Of Calipers

Learn essential tips to clean, lubricate, store, and inspect your caliper so it stays accurate, reliable, and performing like new for years.

Caliper Calibration

Caliper Calibration: Ensuring Precision

Learn when, why, and how to calibrate a caliper for accurate, traceable measurements, proper prep, correct standards, and reliable results.

Future of Calipers

The Future Of Calipers

Explore how next-generation calipers will evolve with smarter tech, advanced materials, greater accuracy, and enhanced user experience.

What is a Multimeter

What Is A Multimeter?

Discover what a multimeter is, its types, uses, and how to use it effectively. Learn about measurements, maintenance, calibration, and more.

The History of the Multimeter

The History Of Multimeters

Explore the history of multimeters from Macadie’s 1920 AVOmeter to today’s digital models, highlighting key milestones and innovations.

What Does A Multimeter Measure

What Does A Multimeter Measure?

Learn what a multimeter measures, from voltage and current to resistance, capacitance, and frequency. Explore basic and advanced functions.

Analog Multimeters

Analog Multimeters

Discover analog multimeters, their parts, and how they measure voltage, current, and more. Learn about their simple and reliable design.

Digital Multimeters

Digital Multimeters (DMMs): How They Work And Their Role Today

Explore digital multimeters and how they measure voltage, current, and resistance. Learn about features like data logging and auto ranging.

Analog vs Digital Multimeters

Analog Vs. Digital Multimeters

Compare analog and digital multimeters to choose the right tool for your needs. Explore their pros, cons, accuracy, and ideal applications.

Handheld vs Benchtop Multimeters

Handheld Vs. Benchtop Multimeters

Compare handheld and benchtop multimeters to choose the right tool for your needs. Learn about portability, accuracy, features, and uses.

True-RMS Multimeters

True-RMS Multimeters

Discover True RMS multimeters and their role in measuring non linear loads with accurate readings for all waveforms.

types of multimeter probes

Multimeter Accessories, Features & Options

Explore multimeter accessories like probes and clips, plus features like auto ranging and data output. Learn how they enhance functionality.

Multimeter Accuracy

Multimeter Accuracy

Learn about multimeter accuracy, why it matters, and how it varies across analog, digital, & benchtop models. Explore key measurement types.

Multimeter Ranges

Multimeter Ranges: Your Guide To Measurement Scales

Explore multimeter ranges for voltage, current, and resistance. Learn why they matter and how auto ranging improves ease and accuracy.

What to Consider When Buying a Multimeter

What To Consider When Buying A Multimeter

Choosing a multimeter? Learn key factors like measurements, accuracy, portability, probes, and data options to find the right fit.

How to Use a Multimeter

How To Use A Multimeter

Learn how to use a multimeter to measure voltage, current, and resistance. Get setup tips, safety advice, and ways to avoid common errors.

Care and Maintenance of Multimeters

Care and Maintenance of Multimeters: Tips for Longevity

Learn how to care for your multimeter with cleaning, storage, battery checks, and calibration to keep it accurate and lasting longer.

Multimeter Calibration

Multimeter Calibration: Ensuring Precision

Learn why multimeter calibration is important, how often it’s needed, where to get it done, and the steps for accurate measurements.

Future of Multimeters

The Future Of Multimeters: Innovations To Watch Out For

Explore the future of multimeters with smart features, AI, non contact measurements, and improved interfaces. Discover upcoming trends.

employee spotlight - Josepha Klickner

Employee Spotlight – Josepha Klickner

Meet Josepha Klickner from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - David Paulsen

Employee Spotlight – David Paulsen

Meet David Paulsen from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - Dani Jo Burns

Employee Spotlight – Dani Jo Burns

Meet Dani Jo Burns from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - brian gliszinski

Employee Spotlight – Brian Gliszinski

Meet Brian Gliszinski from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - meghan scott

Employee Spotlight – Meghan Scott

Meet Meghan Scott from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - may martin

Employee Spotlight – May Martin

Meet May Martin from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - Jared Bogan

Employee Spotlight – Jared Bogan

Meet Jared Bogan from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

employee spotlight - olivia kohler

Employee Spotlight – Olivia Kohler

Meet Olivia Kohler from Fox Valley Metrology, and discover how their role helps deliver trusted calibration and metrology services.

QC Training Announcement Banner

Enhancing Quality: Fox Valley Metrology & QC Training Partnership

Fox Valley Metrology & QC Training partner to offer expert-led courses in calibration, GD&T, ISO, and more. Elevate your team’s skills!

battle on bago

Who’s Ready to Battle: 2023 Battle on Bago

Everyone was ready to “battle” at the 16th Annual Battle on Bago. With over 8,000 anglers participating the Fox Valley Metrology Weight Team has their work cut out for them. But hey, it’s not work when you’re having fun!

Overall Responses from Survey

Survey Says: 2022 Customer Survey Results

Thanks to each and every customer who took the time to participate in our Customer Survey. We’re excited to share the responses and our 2023 industry outlook for the coming year. By the way…it’s looking great!

What Is An Inch? The Hidden Science of Measurement

What Is An Inch? The Hidden Science of Measurement

Looking for a fun, light-hearted dive into the complex world of measurement? Check out this recent TEDx Talk given by Steve Toll, our Vice President here at Fox Valley Metrology.

Open House

2022 Open House

Read our 2022 Open House blog for a detailed recap of the event, highlighting activities, experiences, and memorable moments from the day.

Caliper and Bearings

Calibration Tools – A Measure of Success

FVM was recently featured in Engine Builder Magazine – It’s all about precision and accuracy, and you rely on your tools and equipment to attain the critical accuracy you need for the quality your customers depend on.

Analog Scanning vs. Touch Probing

Analog Scanning vs. Touch Probing

Compare analog scanning versus touch probing to understand their benefits, applications, and impact on measurement accuracy.

Thread Rings

Thread Inspection 101 Part VIII – Thread Ring Adjustment

Part VIII of our Thread Inspection 101 series. Learn the process for adjusting thread rings to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

Thread Rings

Thread Inspection 101 Part VII – Thread Rings

Part VII of our Thread Inspection 101 series. Explore the design, manufacture, and key features of thread rings for precise measurements.

Thread Inspection 101 Part VI - Thread Plugs

Thread Inspection 101 Part VI – Thread Plugs

Part VI of our Thread Measurement 101 Series. Explore the design, manufacture, & proper use of thread plugs to ensure accurate measurements.

2019 Open House - Highlighting Capital Equipment

Open House 2019

Our 2019 Open House celebrated the launch of our Capital Equipment Program with a great turnout, engaging conversations, & event highlights.

Thread Plugs

Thread Inspection 101 Part V – Thread Inspection Theory

Part V of our Thread Measurement 101 Series. Learn about the intricacies of the underlying theory behind thread inspection.

Thread Designations (Metric)

Thread Inspection 101 Part IV – Thread Designations (Metric)

Part IV of our Thread Measurement 101 Series. Learn more about the basics of metric thread designations and classifications.

Thread Designations (Imperial)

Thread Inspection 101 Part III – Thread Designations (Imperial)

Part III of our Thread Measurement 101 Series. Learn more about the basics of Imperial thread designations and classifications.

Thread Form Basics

Thread Inspection 101 Part II – Thread Form

Part II of our Thread Measurement 101 Series. Learn more about the basics of thread form and the impact they have on your final program.

Thread Gages

Thread Inspection 101 Part I – Thread Gage Basics

Part I of our Thread Measurement 101 Series covers the basics of thread measurement and why it is essential to a successful quality program.

Bridge or Portable CMM - Which is Right for You?

Bridge or Portable CMM – Which is Right for You?

Deciding between a bridge or portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) can be difficult. Use this guide to choose which option is best.

How Often Should I Calibrate My Equipment?

How Often Should I Calibrate My Equipment?

Calibration is important. We all know that. However, knowing when to get calibration can sometimes be a little tricky.

7 Biggest Gage Management Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

7 Biggest Gage Management Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

Many fall into common pitfalls when building a gage management system. Discover the 7 most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Calibration Basics Part V - Equipment Accuracy

Calibration Basics Part V – Equipment Accuracy

Part V of our Calibration Basics series explores the fundamentals of calibration and why equipment accuracy is vital to a quality program.

Calibration Basics Part IV - Measurement Uncertainty

Calibration Basics Part IV – Measurement Uncertainty

Part IV of our Calibration Basics series explains the fundamentals of calibration & how measurement uncertainty impacts calibration results.

Calibration Basics Part III - Traceability

Calibration Basics Part III – Traceability

Part III of our Calibration Basics series explains the fundamentals of calibration & why traceability is a cornerstone of proper calibration.

micrometer being calibrated

Calibration Basics Part II – Adjustment

Part II of our Calibration Basics series covers calibration fundamentals and how traceability, adjustment, and uncertainty impact the process.

use of a digital micrometer to measure a metal component

Calibration Basics Part I – What is Calibration?

Part I of our Calibration Basics series covers the fundamentals of calibration and why it is essential to the success of any quality program.

Precision Matters

Give your precision measuring equipment the care it deserves today.