After a successful IQ, the instrument is ready for OQ testing. Operational qualification (OQ) is the documented collection of activities necessary to demonstrate that an instrument will function according to its operational specification in the selected environment. Testing activities in the OQ phase may consist of these test parameters.
Fixed Parameters— These tests measure the instrument's nonchanging parameters such as length, height, weight, voltage inputs, acceptable pressures, and loads. If the manufacturer-supplied specifications for these parameters satisfy the user, the test requirements may be waived. However, if the user wants to confirm the parameters, testing can be performed at the user's site. Fixed parameters do not change over the life of the instrument, and therefore never need redetermination. [NOTE—These tests could also be performed during the IQ phase (see Table 1); if so, fixed parameters need not be redetermined as part of OQ testing.]