BIPM

from The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)
Bureau International des Poids et Mesures
BIPM

   <body, standard> (BIPM) The standards body that ensures
   world-wide uniformity of measurements and their traceability
   to the {International System of Units} (SI).  The BIPM is
   based in France and operates with the authority of the
   Convention of the Metre, a diplomatic treaty between fifty-one
   nations.  It operates through a series of committees, whose
   members are the national metrology laboratories of the member
   states of the convention, and through its own laboratory work.

   The BIPM carries out measurement-related research.  It takes
   part in, and organises, international comparisons of national
   measurement standards, and it carries out calibrations for
   member states.

   BIPM Home (http://bipm.fr/).

   (2005-03-15)