Instrumentation is the branch of science that deals with measurement and control. Instrumentation engineering is the engineering specialization focused on the principle and operation of measuring instruments which are used in design and configuration of automated systems in electrical, pneumatic domains etc. The control of processes is one of the main branches of applied instrumentation. Control instrumentation includes devices such as solenoids, Electrically Operated Valves, breakers, relays, etc. These devices are able to change a field parameter, and provide remote and/or automated control capabilities. To control the parameters in a process or in a particular system Microprocessors, Microcontrollers, PLCs etc are used. But their ultimate aim is to control the parameters of a system.

Instrumentation controls are used in large numbers of businesses that require quality assurance to make certain the manufactured product is stable and of meets industry requirements. These controls are frequently found in industrial processes, engineering, and most facets of modern technology, including, but not limited to, appliances, automobiles, and electronics.

Instrumentation Engineers are responsible for the design, construction and maintenance of instruments and entire instrumentation systems considered being the eyes and ears of any industrial undertaking. The type of instruments needed for ensuring better quality and efficiency of the end product are decided by an instrumentation engineer.
A student requires Solid foundation in mathematics, physics and chemistry, excellent communication abilities, Problem solving skills and Good in technical drawings and computer skills.

Instrumentation Engineering covers subjects like Basics of Circuits and Measurement Systems, Transducers, Mechanical Measurement and Industrial Instrumentation, Analog Electronics, Digital Electronics, Analytical, Optical and Biomedical Instrumentation, Electrical and Electronic Measurements, Signals, Systems and Communications. Though instrumentation engineering itself is a specialized subject yet those who want to pursue further studies can do PhD in the Digital Signal processing, Monitor Control, Speech Processing, Intelligent Controls, etc.

An Instrumentation Engineer may find his place as Instrumentation technologists, technicians and mechanics, specialize in troubleshooting and repairing instruments and instrumentation systems. Generally, such engineers find jobs in R&D units of public and private sector companies. Heavy industries such as thermal power stations, steel plants, refineries, cement and fertilizer plants, need instrumentation engineers. Fields such as purchasing, sales, marketing, finance, HR, IT or general management may also be an option for an Instrumental Engineer.

People from the instrumentation field may pursue further studies in the field of electronics or electrical, applied electronics, mechanical, civil, automobile, aerospace, nautical sciences etc as all the above fields use instrumentation and control devices in one way or the other.

Companies such as Suzlon power, Reliance, Honda, Hyundai, Siemens, BMW, airbus, Boeing, Mitsubishi, BHEL, telecom and IT companies such as IBM, HCL, Accenture, Wipro etc also employ these engineers.

A Fresh graduate from this field may get a starting salary of Rs. 9,000 to Rs. 13,000 per month. Senior engineers can earn anywhere in between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000 a month. Those at management levels can earn up to Rs. 60,000 or even more.