Scientific instrument

A scientific instrument is an instrument used for scientific purposes. Most are measurement instruments. They may be specifically designed, constructed and refined for the purpose. Over time, instruments have become more accurate and precise.

Scientific instruments are part of laboratory equipment, but are considered more sophisticated and more specialized than other measuring instruments as scales, meter sticks, chronometers, thermometers or even waveform generators. They are increasingly based upon the integration of computers to improve and simplify control, enhance and extend instrumental functions, conditions, parameter adjustments and data sampling, collection, resolution, analysis (both during and post-process), storage and retrieval.