CALISO - the calibration software for scientists and engineers
Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction to Caliso Calibration Toolbox About Toolbox Frequently Asked Questions Software Validation Pipette Calibration


How do I register Caliso Calibration Toolbox?

Calibration Toolbox is registered by means of a unique activation code which we send to you when you purchase the software. Without this code Calibration Toolbox runs in evaluation mode. This means that, each time you run the software, you have the option to either view a sample, read-only, database designed to illustrate all the key features of the software, or to create a database of your own, limited to a maximum of 10 devices.

In every other way, you have a fully functioning version of Caliso Calibration Toolbox, and there is no time limit to your evaluation period.


Can I use Caliso Calibration Toolbox on my computer network?

Yes.

Caliso Calibration Toolbox is designed to be used on a network, enabling a number of users to simultaneously access and edit data. Simply install the software onto a shared network drive, and put a shortcut icon onto the Desktops of all the PCs wishing to use the software.

The activation codes discussed in the previous question are unique to every computer, so it is important that you register each PC where you wish to use Calibration Toolbox.


Can I multiple users with invidual user-names and passwords?

Absolutely.

You can have as many different users as you like. Each one will have their own user-name, and a password that is known only to themselves. These users will be on a single PC if you have purchased a "single user" license, or on a number of PCs if you purchase a "multi-user" site license.

Your license can be upgraded to include more users at any time.


Are training courses available?

Yes.

Caliso distributors can provide comprehensive training in the use of the software. This can be carried out at your site.


I already have my large device inventory on a spreadsheet or database. I do not really want to have to re-enter all of this again by hand. Can you help?

Yes.

This is a very common question. If you can supply your current database in one of the following formats, we will convert it into Toolbox format for you FREE OF CHARGE:
  • Access
  • Excel
  • DBase
  • Paradox
  • Delimited Text
That way, you will be up-and-running with Calibration Toolbox straight away.


What information can I keep for each device?

Core data - Data that is unlikely to change during the working-life of the device. Examples are device type, purchase date, model number, serial number, calibration procedure used, and type of certificate template.
Current data - Data which will change each time a device is calibrated or moved to a different location. For example, where it is, it's last and next calibration dates, current status, last recorded measurements and results, keeper's name and email address.
Historic data - A complete record of the device's current information, is added to it's history file each time the record is updated, together with when the record was entered, and by whom.


I have lots of different types of device, and a wide range of calibration data structures. How will Calibration Toolbox cope with that?

Very well indeed.

The recording of dimensional data for a thread gauge is completely different, for example, to the calibration data of a platinum resistance thermometer. So Calibration Toolbox has a choice of input screens determined by the "Calibration Type" selected for each device. The are a range of types:
  • Comparison against a standard reference unit
  • Multi-Pass/Fail
  • ITS-90
  • Callendar Van Dusen
  • Multi-Channel
  • Pipette
  • Sphygmomanometer/Pressure
  • Go-NoGo




I use speadsheets, Word documents, PDF files and web-pages to store my own information on each device? Can I still use Calibration Toolbox

No problem.

Calibration Toolbox contains a very powerful Application Launcher. Basically, for each device in the database you can create a unique list of files and applications that contain relevant and important information (for example procedure files, photographs of the device or location maps). Then, using the Application Launcher, these can be opened at the click of a mouse.

And don't forget: Even if you store your data externally, you will still have all of Calibration Toolbox's calibration management features, such as e-mail and reporting, available to you.


Will it warn me of calibrations that are becoming due?

Yes

Every time you start the program you will be shown a summary of calibrations becoming due for up to 30, 60, and 90 days ahead. There are also warnings of devices that have been either deliberately or accidentally excluded from the summary ( lost, stolen, damaged or obsolete instruments can be deliberately excluded from calibration date searches). This summary can be re-viewed at any time

Listings of devices whose calibrations expire between any two dates can be easily produced, printed, exported as a file or e-mailed to selected recipients. There is also a very useful "Calibration Diary" which enables you to flag calibrations, enter appointments, and keeep daily notes.


Can I design my own calibration certificates?

Yes indeed - The Certificate Writer is a delight to use.

Everything is WYSIWYG, and "data-aware" certificate templates can be designed in minutes.

To produce a new certificate, simply select your device, open a template, click a few buttons, and there you are. Certificates can then be printed or saved as Windows metafiles for viewing within Calibration Toolbox or importing into other applications.

Certificate Writer creates multi-page certificate templates by using the following components.

  • Text labels.
  • Database fields.
  • Bitmaps (such as company logos or approval body seal).
  • Lines and boxes.
  • Tables
  • Embedded graphs


Can I send e-mails?

Yes

Calibration Toolbox enables you to automatically produce e-mail notifications of any devices becoming due for calibration. Messages can be sent to either your customers, external calibration companies, or nominated internal recipients. Advanced search data can also be sent as e-mail attachments.

All major e-mail programs, Outlook, Lotus Notes, Eudora, Outlook Express, etc, are fully supported.


I must be able to maintain records of all my calibrations for each instrument and I want to be able to detect trends in measurements. How do I do this?

You will find Calibration Toolbox very useful for this.

Calibration history

Every device has it's own calibration history file. Whenever a calibration is performed and a certificate produced, the data is added to the device's history file, as well as updating the record in the main database. A device's history file can be viewed at any time from within Tool Box.

Trends

All of the information in the history files is exportable as a delimited text file. This can be used in spreadsheets, such as Excel, or other third party applications to analyse the data in whatever way you need. Furthermore, using the Application Launcher, this external data is only a mouse-click away.

Certificates

Certificates are a snapshot taken at a point in time, so Caliso Toolbox stores Certificates as digital images that can be recalled and sent by e-mail whenever needed.


What sort of reports can I produce?

Whatever you need

The Report Writer tool enables you to produce reports to exact requirements. There are a range of data filters, as well as sorting by date, or wildcard entry.

You can select the fields to include, and specify font, font size and color.

You choose the paper orientation and printer.

Then you can save the report to a file, or export it to MS Word or Excel and e-mail it.


I need to monitor my calibration budget. Can you help me here?
Yes.

Stored for each device is a Calibration Cost, Next Calibration Date, and a Calibration Frequency.

The Calibration Cost Analyser uses this information to produce a month-by-month, device-by-device cost breakdown for up to 2 years ahead. A monthly cost forecast summary for the next 2 years can also be produced.
Introduction to Caliso Calibration Toolbox About Toolbox Frequently Asked Questions Software Validation Pipette Calibration