5.1 Online analyzers are used to provide quality data on lots of coal. The resulting quality data are used as a production tool or for some contractual application. This guide provides the means of evaluating the analyzer system and the data produced.

5.2 Become familiar with the document's terminology and layout. The section on test design and data collection will provide the means by which all the analysis data will be gathered. The test should be carefully designed to ensure the user's requirements are met.

5.3 The procedures defined in this guide can be used to estimate the accuracy and precision of an online analyzer, (1) to conduct acceptance testing following installation and (2) to monitor the accuracy and precision (a) during routine use (quality control), (b) when significant changes are made to the analyzer, and (c) when a significant change in the coal being analyzed occurs (e.g., a different seam at a mine, or a new coal source at a power plant). These procedures can also be used for calibration purposes.