Re: Optical Comparators - Can I calibrate internally?
Bob:
The short answer is yes.....there is no requirement (that I know of) that you must have an external 'expert' perform calibration of any of your equipment.
Depending on what brand of OC and software you have, the equipment used for calibration will vary significantly. If you have something like QC4000 or 5000, you want to be able to check a LOT of things (length, height, diameter, position, etc etc etc) for accuracy and (over time) stability. Mituotoyo now sells (not sure of the price) a calibration master that is VERY appropriate for calibration of OC's, or you can design one and have it manufactured for you by any decent tool shop/wire room.
Sorry I no longer have my procedure available to me, but I will see if I can dig up my draft copy, and will forward it on to you.