According to one research firm, the estimated size of the North American and Canadian used test and calibration instruments market was $446.4 million in 2004 and is estimated to grow to $654.5 million. For over 50 years, companies and governments here in Toronto, Canada have procured used test and calibration instruments in order to realize a number of benefits. Some of the benefits includes: the needs to reduce equipment acquisition costs, replace discontinued calibration instruments, circumvent lengthy new product delivery times, and conform to legacy standards and specifications.Although there are many considerations when purchasing used test and Instrumentation & calibration instruments in Toronto, the quality of the instrument and reliability of the manufacturer should be at the top of the list. Used test equipment manufacturerprovide a number of bywords that represent the equipment they sell, including "refurbished", "remarketed", "reconditioned", "rebuilt" and of course "used". These terms imply various quality processes so buyers should be diligent before the purchasing any used equipment.
"Used" or "Remarketed" equipment often describes products sold with an "as-is" supposition. You might purchase used equipment from an end-user organization or auction company that is selling surplus assets. Products sold as "used" should cost lower than the usual market price as there are some quality issues when it comes to used equipment. It is alsopossible that the instruments are notyet tested and had an uncertain history. Remember, it is only wise to purchase "Used" equipment if the manufacturer have an in-house repair and calibration facilities or expertise.They should be able to procure the item at a cost low because of the possible added expense for repair and calibration .
"Refurbished and reconditioned" are akin and are the most common presentment of used equipment from equipment dealers. Refurbished equipment is fully tested and calibrated to NIST standards to assure that they meet the original manufacturers' specifications. Refurbished equipment should come with all standard accessories and operating manuals. Malfunctioning internal components should also be replaced or repaired including painting and the replacing of face plates, button and knobs. Refurbished equipment is typically sold with a 30-90 day parts/labor warranty and is priced in the middle to high-end of the market spectrum.
Exercise caution and perform due diligence on your vendors. It is most effective first to identify a qualified used equipment vendor and begin a supplier relationship, as opposed to sourcing each instrument you need individually. If you’re qualified vendor does not have what you are looking for in inventory, it is likely that they will be able to locate it within 24 hours. By first identifying and working with a select few vendors, you will assure consistent quality and economical pricing with every used test equipment purchase.
Finally, some vendors advertised "Rebuilt" Calibration Instruments in Toronto. Many instrument options are field-installable and can be built-to-order according to the customer's requirements.