Depending on the skill level of the inspectors, they may also set up and test equipment, calibrate precision instruments, or repair defective products. Inspectors, testers, and graders rely on a number of tools to perform their jobs. Many use micrometers, calipers, alignment gauges, and other instruments to check and compare the dimensions of parts against the parts' specifications. They may also operate electronic equipment, such as measuring machines, which use sensitive probes to measure a part's dimensional accuracy. Inspectors testing electrical devices may use voltmeters, ammeters, and oscilloscopes to test insulation, current flow, and resistance.
Inspectors mark, tag, or note problems.
They may reject defective items outright, send them for repair or correction, or fix minor problems themselves. If the product checks out, they may screw on a nameplate, tag it, stamp a serial number, or certify it in some other way. Inspectors, testers, and graders record the results of their inspections, compute the percentage of defects and other statistical parameters, and prepare inspection and test reports. Some electronic inspection equipment automatically provides test reports containing these inspection results. When defects are found, inspectors notify supervisors, and help analyze and correct the production problems.