Reliability and validity of electrothermometers and associated thermocouples.
OBJECTIVE
Examine thermocouple model uncertainty (reliability+validity).


METHODS
First, a 3x3 repeated measures design with independent variables electrothermometers and thermocouple model. Second, a 1x3 repeated measures design with independent variable subprobe.


METHODS
Three electrothermometers, 3 thermocouple models, a multi-sensor probe and a mercury thermometer measured a stable water bath.


METHODS
Temperature and absolute temperature differences between thermocouples and a mercury thermometer.


RESULTS
Thermocouple uncertainty was greater than manufactures'claims. For all thermocouple models, validity and reliability were better in the Iso-Themex than the Datalogger, but there were no practical differences between models within an electrothermometers. Validity of multi-sensor probes and thermocouples within a probe were not different but were greater than manufacturers'claims. Reliability of multiprobes and thermocouples within a probe were within manufacturers claims.


CONCLUSIONS
Thermocouple models vary in reliability and validity. Scientists should test and report the uncertainty of their equipment rather than depending on manufactures' claims.
Jutte
Lisa S
LS
School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Science at Ball State University, Muncie, IN, USA. lsjutte@bsu.edu
Knight
Kenneth L
KL
Long
Blaine C
BC
D012107:Research Design; D013817:Thermography / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013821:Thermometers / Q000592:standards*; D014481:United States