ESDU 02006 is one of a series on temperature measurement. Its purpose is to review the general techniques available for measuring temperature and to consider specific instruments for particular applications. Twenty-seven temperature measurement systems are covered and measurement criteria appropriate to each device are described or stated. These criteria include calibration, temperature range, response characteristics, transient capability, sensitivity, uncertainty, thermal disturbance and measurement repeatability. Commercial availability and relative costs of devices are also stated. Based on the relative merits of different techniques, guidance for the selection of an appropriate temperature measurement technique is provided.

This information is intended for an initial system selection; more detailed information on design and installation of the chosen system will be found in the specific guides, ESDU 06018 on thermocouples and ESDU 06019 on resistance thermometry.