Propagating uncertainty in instrumentation systems

An algorithm for propagating measurement uncertainty in a system of interconnected modules is presented. The method adheres strictly to current best-practice in the evaluation and reporting of measurement uncertainty. It allows modular instrumentation systems to be designed that will propagate uncertainty automatically. The algorithm is simple, general, efficient, and can be implemented with little difficulty. It inherently provides the kind of dynamic "plug-and-play" flexibility expected of modern instrumentation.