Linearity

A specific type of conformity where the theoretical function characteristic is a straight line.

Mathematically:

Where:
A is the given slope;
B is given intercept at W=0.
W = Angle or slope

Absolute Linearity
The maximum deviation of the actual function characteristic from a fully defined straight reference line. It is expressed as a percentage of the Total Applied Voltage and measured over the Theoretical Electrical Travel. An Index Point on the actual output is required.

The straight reference line may be fully defined by specifying the low and high theoretical end Output Ratios separated by the Theoretical Electrical Travel.
Unless otherwise specified, these end Output Ratios are 0.0 and 1.0 respectively.

Mathematically:

Where:
A is the given slope;
B is given intercept at W=0.
Unless otherwise specified: A-1; B=0

Figure 2: Absolute Linearity:



Independent Linearity
The maximum deviation, expressed as a percent of the Total Applied Voltage, of the actual function characteristic from a straight reference line with its slope and position chosen to minimize deviations over the Actual Electrical Travel, or any specified portion thereof.

Note: End Voltage requirements, when specified, will limit the slope and position of the reference line.

Mathematically:

Where:
P is unspecified slope
Q is unspecified intercept at W=0.
Both are chosen to minimize C but are limited by the End Voltage requirements.

Figure 3 - Independent Linearity: