Reference Guide
Agilent Technologies
Electronic Calibration Modules
RF Two-Port
85091C 85092C 85093C
85096C 85098C 85099C
RF Four-Port
N4431B
Microwave Two-Port
N4690B N4691B N4692A
N4693A N4694A N4696B
Microwave Four-Port
N4432A N4433A
Agilent Part Number: N4693-90001
Printed in USA
Print Date: February 2009
Supersedes: December 2008
© Copyright Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2000–2009
WARRANTY STATEMENT
THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS,” AND IS SUBJECT
TO BEING CHANGED, WITHOUT NOTICE, IN FUTURE EDITIONS. FURTHER, TO THE
MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, AGILENT DISCLAIMS ALL
WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL AND
ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. AGILENT SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ERRORS OR FOR INCIDENTAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE FURNISHING, USE, OR
PERFORMANCE OF THIS DOCUMENT OR ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN.
SHOULD AGILENT AND THE USER HAVE A SEPARATE WRITTEN AGREEMENT WITH
WARRANTY TERMS COVERING THE MATERIAL IN THIS DOCUMENT THAT CONFLICT
WITH THESE TERMS, THE WARRANTY TERMS IN THE SEPARATE AGREEMENT WILL
CONTROL.
DFARS/Restricted Rights Notice
If software is for use in the performance of a U.S. Government prime contract or
subcontract, Software is delivered and licensed as “Commercial computer software” as
defined in DFAR 252.227-7014 (June 1995), or as a “commercial item” as defined in FAR
2.101(a) or as “Restricted computer software” as defined in FAR 52.227-19 (June 1987) or
any equivalent agency regulation or contract clause. Use, duplication or disclosure of
Software is subject to Agilent Technologies’ standard commercial license terms, and
non-DOD Departments and Agencies of the U.S. Government will receive no greater than
Restricted Rights as defined in FAR 52.227-19(c)(1-2) (June 1987). U.S. Government users
will receive no greater than Limited Rights as defined in FAR 52.227-14 (June 1987) or
DFAR 252.227-7015 (b)(2) (November 1995), as applicable in any technical data.
Certification
Agilent Technologies, Inc. certifies that this product met its published specifications at the
time of shipment from the factory. Agilent Technologies, Inc. further certifies that its
calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National Institute of
Standards and Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institute's calibration facility, and
to the calibration facilities of other International Standards Organization members.
ii
Assistance
Product maintenance agreements and other customer assistance agreements are available
for Agilent Technologies, Inc. products. For information about these agreements and for
other assistance, contact Agilent. Refer to “Contacting Agilent” on page 1-15.
Safety and Regulatory Information
The safety and regulatory information pertaining to this product is located in the section
“Safety and Regulatory Information” on page 1-17.
Safety Notes
The following safety notes are used in this manual. Familiarize yourself with each of the
notes and its meaning before operating this instrument. All pertinent safety notes for
using this product are located in “Safety and Regulatory Information” on page 1-17
WARNING
CAUTION
Warning denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure which, if
not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in injury or loss
of life. Do not proceed beyond a warning note until the indicated
conditions are fully understood and met.
Caution denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not
correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to or destruction of
the instrument. Do not proceed beyond a caution sign until the indicated
conditions are fully understood and met.
Technology Licenses
The hardware and / or software described in this document are furnished under a license
and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.
iii
Printing Copies of On-Line Documentation
To print copies of documentation from the Web, download the PDF from the Agilent web
site:
•Go to www.agilent.com.
• Enter the product model number in the search function and click Search.
• Click on the Manuals hyperlink.
• Open the PDF of your choice and print the document.
iv
Contents
1 General Information
Manual Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Prerequisite Knowledge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Clarifying the Terminology of a Connector Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Accuracy of Electronic Calibration versus Mechanical Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
When to Calibrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4
Models and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5
8509x Modules (RF Two-Port) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5
N4431B Modules (RF Four-Port) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-7
N469xA/B Modules (Microwave Two-Port) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-9
8506x Modules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
N4432A and N4433A Modules (Microwave Four-Port) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-12
Compatible Network Analyzers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-14
Service and Recertification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-15
Contacting Agilent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-15
Returning Devices to Agilent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-15
Recertification of ECal Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-16
Safety and Regulatory Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-17
Safety Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-17
Instrument Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-18
Compliance Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-19
2 Preparing ECal for Use
Inspecting ECal Module Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Inspect the Kit Contents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Record the Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Verify Electrical Performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Equipment Required but Not Supplied . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
8509x Series Kit Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
8509x Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
N4431B Series Kit Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4
N4431B Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4
N469xA/B Series Kit Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4
N469xA/B Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6
N4432A and N4433A Series Kit Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6
N4432A Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7
N4433A Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7
Operating and Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8
ESD Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8
Connector Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8
Input Power Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
Operating Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
Connecting and Disconnecting ECal Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Connect ECal Module to PNA or ENA Analyzer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Connect ECal Module to VNA Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12
Table of Contents Contents-v
Contents
3 Operating ECal Module
Setting Up a Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Required Procedure for All Calibrations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Calibration Types Available. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
When to Correct for Isolation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Calibration Methods for Non-Insertable Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Finding More Information on Performing a Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Validating a Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Why Validate a Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Measure Known Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Perform ECal Confidence Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
4 Use, Maintenance, and Care of the Devices
Electrostatic Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Visual Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Look for Obvious Defects and Damage First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Inspect the Mating Plane Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Inspect Female Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-4
Cleaning Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Cleaning Coax Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Cleaning Precision 7 mm Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Gaging Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Connector Gage Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
When to Gage Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Recognizing Gage Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Reading the Connector Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Gaging Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-13
Making Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
3.5 mm, 2.92 mm, 2.4 mm, 1.85 mm, Type-N, 7-16, and Type-F Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
7 mm Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Final Connection Using a Torque Wrench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Separating Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Handling and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-19
5 Specifications and Characteristics
Specifications: Terminology and Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Operating Temperature and Accuracy Enhancement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Barometric Pressure and Relative Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Characteristic Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4
8509x Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
N4431B (3.5 mm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
N4431B (Type-N 50 Ω) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
N4432A (Type-N 50 Ω) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
N4433A (3.5 mm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
N469xA/B Series. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
Mechanical Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
Pin Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
Contents-vi Table of Contents
Contents
Type-N Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14
Typical Pin Depth Values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Supplemental Mechanical Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Mechanical Dimensions of the Modules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Measurement Uncertainty Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
Download the Vector Network Analyzer Uncertainty Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25
6 Replaceable Parts
Description of This Chapter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2
7 mm Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2
Type-N (50 ohm) Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3
3.5 mm Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4
7-16 Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5
2.92 mm Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6
2.4 mm Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
1.85 mm Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-8
Type-N (75 ohm) Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9
Type-F Modules and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-10
Other ECal Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11
Table of Contents Contents-vii
Contents
Contents-viii Table of Contents
1 General Information
1-1
General Information
Manual Overview
Manual Overview
The purpose of this manual is to help you use your Electronic Calibration (ECal) module
confidently and effectively. ECal is a precision, single-connection calibration technique
which uses fully traceable and verifiable electronic standards. Each module has unique
S-parameter data that is stored in the module's memory. During calibration, ECal uses
this data to calculate the error terms for your network analyzer.
This manual provides instructions for operating and maintaining your ECal module. Also
included are mechanical specifications and replaceable parts available for each model.
RF Modules
The 8509x and N4431B series provide two-port and four-port calibration solutions with
operating frequencies starting as low as 9 kHz and ending as high as 13.5 GHz.
Microwave Modules
The N469xA and N469xB series (which replace the 8506x series) and the N4432A and
N4433A series provide two-port and four-port calibration solutions with operating
frequencies starting as low as 300 kHz and ending as high as 67 GHz.
Prerequisite Knowledge
This manual assumes you are trained in proper connector care. Because an accurate
calibration depends on the integrity and cleanliness of the connector interface, a damaged
connector will invalidate the calibration achieved with that module. Refer to the
“Principles of Microwave Connector Care Quick Reference Card” located at the back of this
manual.
Clarifying the Terminology of a Connector Interface
In this manual, adapters, ECal modules, and gage masters are referred to by way of their
interface connector. For example:
• A female adapter has a female interface.
• A male adapter has a male interface.
A connector gage is referred to by way of the connector it measures. For example:
• A male connector gage has a female interface so it can measure male devices.
• A female connector gage has a male interface so it can measure female devices.
Accuracy of Electronic Calibration versus Mechanical Calibration
As the number of DUT test ports increases, the required number of calibration
measurements also increases. This boosts the probability of bad connections and bad
calibrations when mechanical calibration standards are used rather than ECal. Also, test
port cable repeatability and stability errors are amplified by the increased number of
connections and disconnections. To perform an SOLT 4-port calibration, a minimum of
twelve 1-port standards and three 2-port (thru) standards are measured, requiring a total
1-2 Chapter 1
General Information
Manual Overview
of eighteen connections. The same calibration using a 4-port ECal module (N4431B,
N4432A and N4433A) requires only four connections.
Ignoring connection related errors, the following table compares the accuracy of ECal
versus mechanical calibration in various calibration options.
Table 1-1
Mechanical Calibration Type ECal Thru
Type
1-Port, calibration constant (not
NA Reflection ++
Measurement ECal Mechanical
Calibration
data-based) SOL
1-Port, short, open, sliding load NA Reflection +
1-Port, data-based, expanded NA Reflection +
2-Port TRL All types Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
≥2-Port, calibration constant
SOL, flush thru
a
≥2-Port, calibration constant
SOL, unknown thru
Characterized Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Internal
unknown
External
a
flush
Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Characterized Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Internal
unknown
Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
++ ++
++
++
++ ++
++
=
++
++
=
≥2-Port, data-based, expanded,
flush thru
a
≥2-Port, data-based, expanded,
unknown thru
Characterized Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Internal
unknown
External
a
flush
Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Characterized Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
Internal
unknown
Reflection
Tra n s m i s s io n
+
++
+
+
+
+
+
++
+
+
++ better; + slightly better; = same
a. Flush thru should NOT be used when the test port connectors are not the same type as the
calibration standards. SMA and 3.5 mm connectors are mateable but are NOT the same
type.
Chapter 1 1-3
General Information
When to Calibrate
When to Calibrate
A network analyzer calibration remains valid as long as the changes in the systematic
error are insignificant. This means that changes to the uncorrected leakages (directivity
and isolation), mismatches (source match and load match), and frequency response of the
system are small (<10%) relative to accuracy specifications.
Change in the environment (especially temperature) between calibration and
measurement is the major cause in calibration accuracy degradation. The major effect is a
change in the physical length of external and internal cables. Other important causes are
dirty and damaged test port connectors and calibration standards. If the connectors
become dirty or damaged, measurement repeatability and accuracy is affected.
Fortunately, it is relatively easy to evaluate the general validity of the calibration. To test
repeatability, remeasure one of the calibration standards. If you can not obtain repeatable
measurements from your calibration standards, maintenance needs to be performed on the
test port connectors, cables and calibration standards. Also, maintain at least one sample
of the device under test or some known device as your reference device. A verification kit
may be used for this purpose. After calibration, measure the reference device and note its
responses. Periodically remeasure the device and note any changes in its corrected
response which can be attributed to the test system. With experience you will be able to see
changes in the reference responses that indicate a need to perform the measurement
calibration again.
1-4 Chapter 1
General Information
Models and Options
Models and Options
This section provides the model number, operating characteristics and connector options
available with Agilent RF and microwave ECal modules. You can order ECal modules by
selecting the model number followed by the desired options.
8509x Modules (RF Two-Port)
ECal modules from this series are available with the connector types and frequency ranges
shown in Table 1-2 on page 1-6. Mixed connector options allow you to configure the module
with a different connector type at each port (as shown in Figure 1-2).
Figure 1-1 Model 85092C Option M0F
Figure 1-2 Model 85092C Option 104, 201
Chapter 1 1-5
General Information
Models and Options
Table 1-2 8509x Modules
Model
Number
Connector
Type
Operating
Frequency
Port A and B Option
-m- and -f- -m- and -m- -f- and -f-
85091C 7 mm 300 kHz to 9 GHz No Connector Option
85091-60004
85092C
Type-N 50 ohm 300 kHz to 9 GHz M0F
85092-60008
Mixed
300 kHz to 9 GHz See Table 1-3
connector types
00M
85092-60009
85092-60004
– see Table 1-3
85093C
3.5 mm 300 kHz to 9 GHz M0F
85093-60008
Mixed
300 kHz to 9 GHz See Table 1-3
connector types
00M
85093-60009
85092-60004
– see Table 1-3
85096C Type-N 75 ohm 300 kHz to 3 GHz M0F
85096-60007
7-16 300 kHz to 7.5 GHz M0F
85098C
Mixed
300 kHz to 7.5 GHz See Table 1-3
85098-60007
connector types
00M
85096-60008
00M
85098-60008
85092-60004
– see Table 1-3
00F
85092-60010
00F
85093-60010
00F
85096-60009
00F
85098-60009
85099C Type-F 300 kHz to 3 GHz M0F
85099-60009
Table 1-3 8509x Mixed Connector Options
Model
Number
85092C Type-N 50Ω 103 104 3.5 mm 201 202
85093C 3.5 mm 101 102 Type-N 50Ω 203 204
85098C
a. Limits ECal module high frequency to 7.5 GHz.
Other Options Description
00A Adds one -m- to -m- and one -f- to -f- adapter.
UK6 Adds commercial calibration certificate with measured data.
Port A Option Port B Option
Type -f- -m- Type -f- -m- Type -f- -m-
7-16
a
105 106 3.5 mm 201 202 Type-N 50Ω 203 204
00M
85099-60010
a
7-16
a
7-16
00F
85099-60011
205 206
205 206
1-6 Chapter 1
General Information
Models and Options
N4431B Modules (RF Four-Port)
ECal modules from this series are available with the connector types and frequency ranges
shown in Table 1-4. Mixed connector options (shown in Table 1-5) allow you to configure
the module with a different connector type at each port.
Figure 1-3 Model N4431B Option 010
Table 1-4 N4431B Modules
Model
Number
N4431B N4431-60007 Type-N 50Ω -f-
a. Performance from 9 kHz to 300 kHz is valid only for the E5071C ENA network
analyzer with firmware version A.09.10 or higher.
Module
Number
N4431-60006 3.5 mm -f-
N4431-60008 Mixed connector types – see
Connector Type Port
A,B,C,D
Table 1-5 on page 1-8
Operating
Frequency
a
9 kHz
GHz
9 kHz
GHz
9 kHz
GHz
to 13.5
a
to 13.5
a
to 13.5
Option
010
020
See Table 1-5
on page 1-8
Chapter 1 1-7
General Information
Models and Options
Table 1-5 N4431B Mixed Connector Options
Connector Type Port A Option Port B Option Port C Option Port D Option
3.5 mm -f- 101 201 301 401
3.5 mm -m- 102 202 302 402
Type-N 50Ω -f- 103 203 303 403
Type-N 50Ω -m- 104 204 304 404
7-16 -f-
7-16 -m-
a
a
105 205 305 405
106 206 306 406
a. Limits ECal module high frequency to 7.5 GHz.
Other Options Description
UK6 Adds commercial calibration certificate with measured data.
1-8 Chapter 1
General Information
Models and Options
N469xA/B Modules (Microwave Two-Port)
ECal modules from this series are available with the connector types and frequency ranges
shown in Table 1-6. Mixed connector options are not available with this series.
Figure 1-4 Model N4693A Option M0F
Chapter 1 1-9
General Information
Models and Options
Table 1-6 N469xA/B Modules
Model
Number
N4690B Type-N 50Ω 300 kHz to 18 GHz M0F 00M 00F
N4691B 3.5 mm 300 kHz to 26.5 GHz M0F 00M 00F
N4692A 2.92 mm 10 MHz to 40 GHz M0F 00M 00F
N4693A 2.4 mm 10 MHz to 50 GHz M0F 00M 00F
N4694A 1.85 mm 10 MHz to 67 GHz M0F 00M 00F
Connector
Type
Operating
Frequency
Port A and B Option
-m- and -f- -m- and -m- -f- and -f-
Module Part Number
N4690-60004 N4690-60005 N4690-60006
Module Part Number
N4691-60004 N4691-60005 N4691-60006
Module Part Number
N4692-60001 N4692-60002 N4692-60003
Module Part Number
N4693-60001 N4693-60002 N4693-60003
Module Part Number
N4694-60001 N4694-60002 N4694-60003
N4696B 7 mm 300 kHz to 18 GHz No Connector Option
Module Part Number
N4696-60004
Other Options Description
00A Adds one -m- to -m- and one -f- to -f- adapter (not available with N4696B).
UK6 Adds commercial calibration certificate with measured data.
1-10 Chapter 1
General Information
Models and Options
8506x Modules
ECal modules in this series are no longer available for purchase, but may be returned to
Agilent for service and recertification. The 8506x series has been replaced by the
N469xA/B series. See “N469xA/B Modules (Microwave Two-Port)” on page 1-9.
Figure 1-5 Model 85062B
Table 1-7 8506x Modules
Model
Number
85060B 7 mm 1 to 18 GHz
85062B 3.5 mm 1 to 26.5 GHz
85064B Type-N 50Ω 1 to 18 GHz
Connector
Typ e
Operating
Frequency
8506xA series modules with serial numbers below 800 need to be retrofitted for operation
with the 85097B VNA interface kit. The retrofitting must be done by a qualified Agilent
Technologies service office. See “Contacting Agilent” on page 1-15.
Chapter 1 1-11
General Information
N4432A and N4433A Modules (Microwave Four-Port)
N4432A and N4433A Modules (Microwave Four-Port)
ECal modules from this series are available with the connector types and frequency ranges
shown in Table 1-8. Mixed connector options (shown in Table 1-9) allow you to configure
the module with a different connector type at each port.
Figure 1-6 Model N4433A Option 010
Table 1-8 N4432A and N4433A Modules
Model
Number
N4432A N4432-60003 Type-N 50Ω -f- 300 kHz to 18 GHz 020
N4433A N4433-60003 3.5 mm -f- 300 kHz to 20 GHz 010
Module
Number
N4432-60005 Mixed connector types – see
N4433-60004 Mixed connector types – see
Connector Type Port
A,B,C,D
Table 1-9 on page 1-13
Table 1-10 on page 1-13
Operating
Frequency
300 kHz to 18 GHz See Table 1-9
300 kHz to 20 GHz See
Option
on page 1-13
Table 1-10 on
page 1-13
1-12 Chapter 1
General Information
N4432A and N4433A Modules (Microwave Four-Port)
Table 1-9 N4432A Mixed Connector Options
Connector Type Port A Option Port B Option Port C Option Port D Option
3.5 mm -f-
3.5 mm -m-
a
a
101 201 301 401
102 202 302 402
Type-N 50Ω -f- 103 203 303 403
Type-N 50Ω -m- 104 204 304 404
a. Frequency range of ECal module limited by other connectors.
Other Options Description
UK6 Adds commercial calibration certificate with measured data.
1A7 Adds ISO 17025 compliant calibration.
A6J Adds ANSI Z540 compliant calibration.
Table 1-10 N4433A Mixed Connector Options
Connector Type Port A Option Port B Option Port C Option Port D Option
3.5 mm -f- 101 201 301 401
3.5 mm -m- 102 202 302 402
Other Options Description
UK6 Adds commercial calibration certificate with measured data.
1A7 Adds ISO 17025 compliant calibration.
A6J Adds ANSI Z540 compliant calibration.
Chapter 1 1-13
General Information
Compatible Network Analyzers
Compatible Network Analyzers
ECal modules operate with the network analyzer models shown in Table 1-11. Not all ECal
module and network analyzer combinations have the same features or capabilities. See
your network analyzer user guide or online Help.
Table 1-11 Compatible Network Analyzers
Network
Analyzers
8509xC
N4431B
ECal Module Series
a, b
N443xA
VNA Network Analyzers
8719ES/ET
8720ES/ET
8722ES/ET
8753ES/ET
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
d
d
d
d
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
d
d
d
d
No
No
No
No
PNA Network Analyzers
E8356/7/8A Yes Yes
E8801/2/3A Yes Yes
N3381/2/3A Yes Yes
E8362/3/4A Yes Yes
E8362/3/4B Yes Yes
E8361A Yes Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
N5230A Yes Yes Yes
N5242A Yes Yes Yes
ENA Network Analyzers
E5070A/B
Yes Ye s
Yes
and
E5071A/B/C
N469xA/B
e
Ye s
e
Ye s
e
Ye s
e
Ye s
f
Yes
f
Yes
f
Yes
f
Yes
f
Yes
f
Yes
f
Yes
f
Yes
g
Yes
Interface
c
8506x
Required
Yes 85097B
Yes 85097B
Yes 85097B
Yes 85097B
No USB
No USB
No USB
No USB
No USB
No USB
No USB
No USB
No USB
E5061/2A Yes Yes N/A N/A No USB
a. Only ports A and B available when operated with 8753/8720 series network
analyzers.
b. Performance from 9 kHz to 300 kHz is valid only for the E5071C ENA network
analyzer with firmware version A.09.10 or higher.
c. 8506x modules are no longer available for purchase.
d. VNA firmware revision 7.68 or higher required.
e. VNA firmware revision 7.74 or higher and adapter cable (part no. 8121-1047)
required.
f. PNA firmware revision 3.0 required with N4692A, N4693A, and N4694A.
g. Exception: the N4693A and N4694A are not supported on the ENA.
1-14 Chapter 1
General Information
Service and Recertification
NOTE
For 8753 network analyzers, RF ECal modules (8509x) may be used below 300 kHz.
However, calibration accuracy is not specified. The display trace connecting the two
points on either side of the 300 kHz boundary may misrepresent actual performance.
Service and Recertification
If your ECal module requires service or recertification, contact the Agilent office nearest
you for information about where to send it. The performance of your ECal module can only
be verified by specially manufactured equipment and calibration standards from Agilent.
Contacting Agilent
Assistance with test and measurements needs and information on finding a local Agilent
office are available on the Web at:
www.agilent.com/find/assist
If you do not have access to the Internet, please contact your Agilent field engineer.
NOTE
In any correspondence or telephone conversation, refer to the Agilent product
by its model number and full serial number. With this information, the
Agilent representative can determine whether your product is still within its
warranty period.
Returning Devices to Agilent
If you are returning the product to Agilent, please include a service tag (located near the
end of this manual) on which you provide the following information:
• your company name and address
• a technical contact person within your company, and the person’s complete telephone
number including country code and area code
• the model number and serial number of the case
• the part number and serial number of each device
• type of service required
• a detailed description of the problem and how the device was being used when the
problem occurred (such as calibration or measurement)
Chapter 1 1-15
General Information
Service and Recertification
NOTE
When transporting the module, use original or comparable packaging.
Recertification of ECal Modules
CAUTION
The suggested interval for recertification is 12 months. After reviewing the results of the
initial recertification, you may establish a shorter interval that reflects greater use and
wear of the module.
Where to Send a Module for Recertification
Contact Agilent for information on where to send your kit for recertification. See
“Contacting Agilent” on page 1-15. Refer to “Returning Devices to Agilent” on page 1-15 for
instructions on the preparation of returning the device.
Only Agilent calibration laboratories use the most accurate
reference standards - directly traceable to national and international
primary standards - to calibrate ECal modules to their warranted
specifications. Calibration services performed by unauthorized calibration
service providers will cause ECal modules to perform substantially below
specifications. Agilent is not responsible for the poor performance of ECal
modules that are calibrated by such unauthorized calibration service
providers.
How Agilent Verifies Your ECal Module
Agilent verifies the specifications of these devices as follows:
1. The residual microwave error terms of the test system are verified with precision
airlines and shorts or low frequency resistance that are directly traced to the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The airline and short characteristics are
developed from mechanical measurements. The mechanical measurements and
material properties are carefully modeled to give very accurate electrical
representation. The mechanical measurements are then traced to NIST through
various plug and ring gages and other mechanical measurements.
2. Each module is electrically tested on this system to the specification listed in Chapter 5,
“Specifications and Characteristics.”
These two steps establish a traceable link to NIST for Agilent to the extent allowed by the
institute’s calibration facility. The specifications data provided for the module are traceable
to NIST through Agilent Technologies.
What Is Provided with a Recertification
• a new calibration sticker affixed to the module
• a certificate of calibration
• a list of United States National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable
numbers
1-16 Chapter 1
General Information
Safety and Regulatory Information
• a calibration report for each traceable module listing measured values, specifications,
and uncertainties
• a new set of S-parameter data (embedded in module memory) if the old set of
S-parameters data no longer allows for a calibration that meets all performance
specifications
Agilent Technologies offers different types of calibration for the recertification of the
module. For more information, contact Agilent. See “Contacting Agilent” on page 1-15.
Safety and Regulatory Information
Review this section to familiarize yourself with safety markings and instructions before
you operate the ECal module. This product has been designed and tested in accordance
with international standards.
WARNING
CAUTION
The WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a
procedure, practice, or the like, that, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, could result in personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a
WARNING notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood
and met.
The CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating
procedure, practice, or the like, that, if not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in damage to the product or loss of important data. Do not
proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.
Safety Notices
WARNING
WARNING
To prevent electrical shock, disconnect from instrument before
cleaning. Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water to
clean the external case parts. Do not attempt to clean internally.
If this product is not used as specified, the protection provided by
the equipment could be impaired. This product must be used in a
normal condition (in which all means for protection are intact) only.
Chapter 1 1-17
General Information
Safety and Regulatory Information
Instrument Markings
When you see this symbol on your instrument, you should
refer to the instrument’s instruction manual for important
!
information.
This symbol indicates hazardous voltages.
The laser radiation symbol is marked on products that have
a laser output.
This symbol indicates that the instrument requires
alternating current (ac) input.
The CE mark is a registered trademark of the European
Community. If it is accompanied by a year, it indicates the
year the design was proven.
The CSA mark is a registered trademark of the Canadian
Standards Association.
ISM1-A This text indicates that the instrument is an Industrial
Scientific and Medical Group 1 Class A product (CISPR 11,
Clause 4).
This symbol indicates that the power line switch is ON.
This symbol indicates that the power line switch is OFF or
in STANDBY position.
The C-Tick mark is a registered trademark of the
Australian Spectrum Management Agency.
This product complies with the WEEE Directive
(2002/96/EC) marking requirements. The affixed label
indicates that you must not discard this electrical/
electronic product in domestic household waste.
Product Category: With reference to the equipment types in
the WEEE Directive Annex I, this product is classed as a
“Monitoring and Control instrumentation” product.
Do not dispose in domestic household waste.
To return unwanted products, contact your local Agilent
office, or see http://www.agilent.com/environment/product/
for more information.
This product complies with the China RoHS regulation.
Product manuals will have a Toxic Substance Table showing
the hazardous substances in the product.
1-18 Chapter 1
General Information
Safety and Regulatory Information
Compliance Notices
This product has been designated and tested in accordance with accepted industry
standards, and has been supplied in a safe condition. The documentation contains
information and warnings that must be followed by the user to ensure safe operation and
to maintain the product in a safe condition.
Compliance IEC 61000-4-4: 1995 (electrical transients) and IEC 61000-4-2: 1995
(electrostatic discharge): Passes using Criterion C.
Calibration cycle may be interrupted by power line transients applied to external power
supply or by electrostatic discharge applied to module. Normal function is restored by
restarting the calibration process.
Compliance with Canadian EMC Requirements
This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES-001.
Cet appareil ISM est conforme a la norme NMB du Canada.
Declaration of Conformity
A declaration of conformity for any of these ECal modules is available at
http://www.agilent-pra.com/DoC/search.htm or by contacting Agilent - see “Contacting
Agilent” on page 1-15.
Chapter 1 1-19
General Information
Safety and Regulatory Information
1-20 Chapter 1
2 Preparing ECal for Use
2-1
Preparing ECal for Use
Inspecting ECal Module Kit
Inspecting ECal Module Kit
Inspect the Kit Contents
Verify the case and its contents are not damaged and that all parts are included (see items
listed in Table 2-2, Table 2-3, and Table 2-4). If the case or any device appears damaged, or
if the shipment is incomplete, contact Agilent. Agilent will arrange for repair or
replacement of incomplete or damaged shipments without waiting for settlement from the
transportation company. See “Contacting Agilent” on page 1-15.
Record the Serial Number
ECal modules are individually serialized. Record the serial number and the date of initial
use as a reminder for annual recertification. See “Recertification of ECal Modules” on
page 1-16.
Table 2-1 Table for Tracking ECal Module Serial Numbers
Module Number Serial Number Date
Verify Electrical Performance
To verify electrical performance of the module, see “Validating a Calibration” on page 3-6.
Equipment Required but Not Supplied
VNA Interface Kit (85097B)
The VNA Interface Kit allows you to connect an ECal module to supported vector network
analyzers. Microwave ECal modules (N469xA/B series) require an adapter cable
(part no. 8121-1047) to operate with the 85097B kit. The adapter cable is included as an
option with the interface kit or can be ordered separately. Refer to Chapter 6 , “Replaceable
Parts.”
Pin Depth Gages
Gages for measuring recession or protrusion are not provided in the kit. See Chapter 6 ,
“Replaceable Parts.” or contact Agilent to order gages and other test accessories.
2-2 Chapter 2
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