Digital

The measurement needs can be viewed as three interconnected activities, representing the data lifecycle: improved collection of data; improved connection of data; and improved comprehension of data.  Between them, these lead to increased confidence in intelligent and effective use of data.

The major technical and measurement priorities identified through industry consultation for digital are:

• Enhancing traceable, ubiquitous and embedded measurement to industrial processes and networks of sensors and devices, from development of new materials and electronics for sensors through to network design
• Developing devices and technologies that are different, yet interoperable, and are prepared for rapid introduction into future communications network scenarios in a secure manner
• Establishment of secure, traceable and authenticated digital approaches that confer verifiable assurance of quality to raw and processed data sets
• Establishment of a national test and evaluation service and capability in quantum technologies, to support organisations developing new products, build confidence in new technologies and accelerate commercialisation

NPL's priority actions align with the Industrial Strategy and 5G strategy, to validate performance and improve resilience, reliability and traceability:   

• Support the UK's drive to be a global leader in future communications, including networks and digital technology. We're leading an EU-wide project to ensure that 5G is a success, developing and testing new infrastructure, signals and real-world environmental factors affecting 5G performance.
• Support the UK's drive to be a global leader in quantum technologies. We're opening new, world-class laboratories to expand our work on quantum technologies and provide industry with access to world-leading test and evaluation facilities to accelerate commercialisation. We're provide precise timing services to underpin financial trading, and have developed a miniature atomic clock, paving the way for advances in navigation, energy and communication networks.
• Deliver Data Confidence in the Intelligent and Effective Use of Data. We're developing standards to turn data into decisions, to aid the commercial exploitation of data and the information derived from it, and ensure it can be used to deliver benefit to every aspect of society, from personalised healthcare to climate change modelling.
• Support autonomous technology on land, sea and in the air. Building trust and integrity in integrated sensors and data will facilitate the adoption of driverless vehicles, drones and tractors, to increase the productivity of farming by using sensors to monitor fields and crops.