Data that have been evaluated are assigned one of five data quality levels ranging from good at level 1 to bad at level 5:
- QL1 (GOOD): these are data thave have met all of the criteria for that sensor type to qualify as good data.
- QL2: data that are often probably-good, but may be missing some information to verify the data are good
- QL3: this flag is used for data that have some quality concerns and users should pay particular attention to the quality control notes (via metadata or supporting documentation) to determine whether data are appropriate for use.
- QL4: non-bad data that have serious quality concerns. Users should pay particular attention to the quality control notes (via metadata or supporting documentation) and use the data with caution.
- QL5 (BAD): these are “garbage” data such as during periods of sensor malfuction or outliers.