In measurement, stability refers to the amount that characteristics of a device remain the same over a period of time. The more constant a measurement tool is over time, the more stable. When the tool becomes less stable, it is said to drift. Lack of calibration, overuse, poor storage conditions, and exposure to extreme environments can all impact the stability of a measurement tool. Conducting repeatability tests can help to ensure that a tool remains stable and can formulaically check for any possible drift that may have occurred. Back to entire glossary