Miscalibrated

Miscalibrated describes something that is inaccurately adjusted, set, or measured, resulting in incorrect readings, performance, or function. This term applies to instruments, systems, processes, or even human perceptions where the intended values or outputs deviate from the actual or desired outcomes due to errors in calibration or setting. The degree of miscalibration can range from minor deviations to significant distortions, impacting the reliability and validity of the subject in question.

Miscalibrated meaning with examples

• The weather station's barometer was miscalibrated, giving consistently higher pressure readings, which led to inaccurate weather forecasts, jeopardizing outdoor events and potentially affecting public safety and planning.
• After the factory shutdown for maintenance, the assembly line's automated robotic arm was found to be miscalibrated, leading to products being manufactured with incorrect dimensions, requiring a costly recall of several thousands.
• The software used to assess employee performance was miscalibrated, leading to inaccurate reports and incorrect performance evaluations. This affected decisions about promotions and compensation based on the software's biased outputs.
• The athlete's heart rate monitor was miscalibrated, giving faulty readings that were impacting his training regimen. Without precise data he was unable to properly monitor his exercise intensity or the recovery process.
• During the experiment the lab scales were miscalibrated resulting in incorrect measurements, compromising the integrity of the research, causing erroneous conclusions about the experimental outcomes.