Overview

Optical instruments are affected during their use by a number of different environmental influences which they are required to resist without significant reduction in performance, while still remaining within defined specifications. The type and severity of these parameters depend on the conditions of use. The environmental effects on optical instrument performance in tropical and subtropical climates are totally different from those found when they are used in the arctic regions. Individual parameters cause a variety of different and overlapping effects on instrument performance. The manufacturer attempts to ensure, and the user naturally expects, that instruments will resist the likely rigours of their environment throughout their life. This expectation can be assessed by exposure of the instrument to a range of simulated environmental parameters under controlled laboratory conditions. The standards of the DIN ISO 9022 series contain details of a number of laboratory tests which reliably simulate a variety of different environments and therewith allow assessment and comparison of the response of optical instruments to appropriate environmental conditions. The tests are based largely on IEC standards, modified where necessary to take into account features specific to optical instruments. Part 1 of DIN ISO 9022 defines terms relating to environmental tests of optical instruments, instruments with optical assemblies and optical components and specifies basic features of testing. With respect to the October 2012 edition, Annex A has been updated. The committee responsible for the standard is Working Committee NA 027-01-02 AA "Grundnormen für die Optik" ("Fundamental standards for optics") Working Group "Umweltbedingungen und -prüfungen" ("Environmental requirements and test methods") at DIN Standards Committee Optics and Precision Mechanics (NAFuO).

Document: references other documents

Responsible national committee

NA 027-01-02-03 AK - Environmental requirements and test methods for optical instruments  

Responsible international committee

ISO/TC 172/SC 1/WG 3 - Environmental test methods