Basic and straightforward approach to optimize a measurement set- up: guidelines and suggestions

Abstract

The accurate design of experimental tests is pivotal to guarantee the quality of the output data as well as for the optimization of the resources needed to carry out an experimental campaign. Indeed, if it is true that an objective can be achieved following different paths, it is beyond doubt that it is often necessary to save time and money while guaranteeing the accuracy of the tests performed and the quality of the data gathered. Hence, starting from the fundamentals of measurements, it is important to follow basic and straightforward guidelines to make the right choices when dealing with the design of an experimental setup.

This tutorial is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of a rigorous approach to be adopted to optimize a measurement setup, going through the essential aspects of the topic and showing how each step can be optimized.

These steps include the choice and the definition of multiple aspects, as follows:
1. The acquisition system, dealing with sampling and quantification procedures.
2. The test population, considering statistical power and significance level.
3. The operating conditions, taking into account possible interfering factors.
4. Signal processing, including filtering techniques and comparative analyses.

Finally, an insight on practical applications is provided.