Smart instruments

Various aspects of the nature of intelligence as applied to measurement science such as mathematical capability, signal routing, signal conditioning, and processing are discussed. The state-of-the-art in providing intelligence in instruments is reviewed. The decreasing cost and increasing capability of CPU, memory, and peripheral-control functions involving the application of microcomputer electronics is described. Design considerations such as precision, economy, and simplicity are outlined as well as some limitations on intelligence. Trends in smartinstrument design are discussed and some predictions future developments are made.