Characterization of an Ultrasonic Measurement System by Means of Its Instrument Function

Abstract Measurement systems can be regarded as input-output systems represented by a characteristic instrument transfer function. This characterization of the experimental set-up enables a quantitative evaluation of its sensitivity and resolution, and a comparison of relative performance among several such systems. Three alternative methods for the quantitative characterization of a measurement system through its instrument function are presented, each based on a phenomenological and semi-empirical approach. The three methods are described theoretically and then applied to the analysis of an ultrasonic experimental set-up. The features of the instrument function, obtained independently by the three methods, are compared, and the relative advantages and disadvantages of each method are evaluated.