Rohde&Schwarz NRPC18, NRPC33, NRPC40, NRPC50, NRPC67 Manual

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R&S®NRPC/NRVC, R&S®Recal+ Power Sensor Calibration Kits and Calibration Software

Manual

1109.0930.32 – 14

Manual

This manual describes the following power sensor calibration kit types and the calibration software.

Power Sensor Calibration Kits

● R&S®NRPC18 order no. 1418.0931.03

● R&S®NRPC33 order no. 1418.0677.03

● R&S®NRPC40 order no. 1159.6802.03

● R&S®NRPC50 order no. 1159.6883.03

● R&S®NRPC67 order no. 1418.1567.02

● R&S®NRPC-LS order no. 1421.7004.02

● R&S®NRVC discontinued product

Calibration Software

● R&S®Recal+

© 2021 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Mühldorfstr. 15, 81671 München, Germany Phone: +49 89 41 29 - 0 Fax: +49 89 41 29 12 164 Email: info@rohde-schwarz.com Internet: www.rohde-schwarz.com Subject to change – Data without tolerance limits is not binding.

R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG. Trade names are trademarks of their owners.

Throughout this manual, the products from Rohde & Schwarz are indicated without the ® symbol, e.g. R&S®NRPC/NRVC is abbreviated as R&S NRPC/NRVC.

Contents R&S NRPC

1109.0930.32 - 14 3 E-14

1 General .................................................................................................................... 6

Intended Use ........................................................................................................................................ 6

Key features ......................................................................................................................................... 6

Description of the Calibration Kits .................................................................................................... 6

Information about the R&S

NRPC Calibration Kit ........................................................................... 7

Information about the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ........................................................................... 7

Information and Instructions on Calibration .................................................................................... 8

Warm-Up Time for Devices under Test (DUTs) ............................................................................... 8

Reflection Measurement .................................................................................................................. 8

Calibration of Absolute Accuracy ..................................................................................................... 8

Refreshing the Device under Test's Data Set ............................................................................. 8

Gamma Correction ...................................................................................................................... 9

R&S

NRP Sensors with Attenuator ............................................................................................ 9

Diode Sensors in the R&S®NRV and R&S

URV5 Families........................................................ 9

Linearity Calibration .......................................................................................................................... 9

Information about the Supported Sensors .....................................................................................10

Calibration of absolute accuracy with standard R&S

NRPC ....................................................10

Calibration of linearity with standard R&S

NRPC-LS ...............................................................12

2 Putting into Operation ......................................................................................... 13

Unpacking the Unit ............................................................................................................................13

R&S®NRPC18 and R&S

NRPC18-B1 ...........................................................................................13

R&S®NRPC33 and R&S

NRPC33-B1 ...........................................................................................14

R&S®NRPC40 and R&S

NRPC40-B1 ...........................................................................................15

R&S®NRPC50 and R&S

NRPC50-B1 ...........................................................................................16

R&S®NRPC67 and R&S

NRPC67-B1 ...........................................................................................17

R&S

NRPC-LS...............................................................................................................................18

Additional Hardware Requirements ................................................................................................19

Devices for the R&S

NRPC Calibration Kit ...................................................................................19

Controller ...................................................................................................................................19

R&S

NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable .......................................................................................19

R&S

NRX Power Meter ............................................................................................................19

Generators for Calibration of Absolute Accuracy ......................................................................20

Generators for Calibration of Linearity ......................................................................................22

Vector Network Analyzers for Calibration of Matching .............................................................22

Power Calibration for R&S

NRP Sensors .......................................................................................24

R&S

NRP Sensors 10 MHz (8 kHz) up to 18 GHz ........................................................................24

R&S

FSH-Z1, -Z18 ........................................................................................................................24

R&S

NRP Sensors up to 33 GHz ..................................................................................................25

R&S

NRP Sensors up to 40 GHz ..................................................................................................25

R&S

NRP Sensors up to 50 GHz ..................................................................................................26

R&S NRPC / NRVC Contents

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R&S

NRP Sensors up to 67 GHz ..................................................................................................26

Linearity Calibration for R&S

NRP Sensors...................................................................................27

R&S

NRP Sensors ........................................................................................................................27

3 Sensor Calibration ............................................................................................... 28

Preparation 28

Installing the R&S

Recal+ Calibration Software on the Hard Disk ................................................28

Installing the R&S

ZVX_RECAL Additional Program on the Hard Disk ........................................28

Starting the Calibration Software ...................................................................................................28

Entering the Name and Address of the Calibration Laboratory .....................................................29

Defining Directories ...................................................................................................................29

Initializing the Measuring Equipment .............................................................................................30

Configuration of Power Meters with the R&S

NRPC Calibration Kit ........................................30

Initializing the R&S

NRX ...........................................................................................................31

Initializing the Generators .........................................................................................................31

Initializing Network Analyzers ...................................................................................................31

Performing the Calibration ...............................................................................................................32

Incoming Inspection .......................................................................................................................33

Checking the Matching ...................................................................................................................34

Checking the Linearity ....................................................................................................................35

Checking the Absolute Accuracy ...................................................................................................37

Generating the Calibration Report...................................................................................................41

Suppressing the Rohde & Schwarz logo ........................................................................................42

Calculating a New EPROM File ........................................................................................................43

Overwriting the Data Memory of a Sensor with Flash EPROM .........................................................45

Archiving 46

Copying Files to Archive ..................................................................................................................46

Fetching Files from Archive ............................................................................................................47

4 Verification ............................................................................................................ 48

Verification of the R&S

NRPC Calibration Kit ................................................................................48

Built-In Self-Test of the Power Standard ........................................................................................48

Comparison Measurements with the R&S

NRPC-B1 Verification Set ..........................................48

5 Recalibration ........................................................................................................ 50

Procedures to be Performed after Recalibration ...........................................................................50

6 Appendix ............................................................................................................... 51

Exchanging the RF Connector on the Test Port of the Power Standard .....................................51

Measurements on a Separate Measurement Setup .......................................................................54

Reflection .......................................................................................................................................54

Program-Controlled Reflection Measurement with R&S

ZVX_RECAL ....................................54

Information about reflection measurements with R&S

ZVX_RECAL .......................................59

Contents R&S NRPC

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Reflection measurement without using R&S

ZVX_RECAL ......................................................61

Configuration of the Network Analyzer .....................................................................................61

Formatting and Saving the Reflection Measured Values ..........................................................62

S-parameter file for sensors with attenuators ................................................................................68

Linearity 70

Absolute Accuracy ..........................................................................................................................72

Power Calibration for R&S®NRV and R&S

URV Sensors .............................................................75

R&S

NRV-Z2, -Z5, -Z8, -Z51 .........................................................................................................75

R&S

NRV-Z32 ...............................................................................................................................75

R&S

NRV-Z33, -Z53, -Z54 ............................................................................................................76

R&S

NRV-Z1, -Z4, -Z7, -Z31 .........................................................................................................76

R&S

URV5-Z2 ...............................................................................................................................77

R&S

URV5-Z4 ...............................................................................................................................77

R&S

URV5-Z7 ...............................................................................................................................78

R&S

NRV-Z52 ...............................................................................................................................78

R&S

NRV-Z6 .................................................................................................................................79

R&S

NRV-Z55 ...............................................................................................................................79

R&S

NRV-Z15 ...............................................................................................................................80

Linearity Calibration for R&S®NRV and R&S

URV Sensors .........................................................81

R&S

NRV Sensors ........................................................................................................................81

R&S

URV5 Sensors ......................................................................................................................81

Configuration of Power Meter NRVD ...............................................................................................82

Initializing the R&S

NRVD .............................................................................................................82

Operation of the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ..................................................................................84

Devices for the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ...................................................................................84

R&S

NRVD Dual-Channel Power Meter ..................................................................................84

Installing the remaining components of the R&S

NRVC ...............................................................84

Update Additional Data for the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ...........................................................85

Configuration of Power Meters with the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ........................................85

Verification of the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ................................................................................87

Comparison Measurements with the R&S

NRVC-B1 Verification Set ..........................................87

DC Voltage Tests with the R&S

NRVC Calibration Kit ..................................................................88

Additional measuring equipment required ................................................................................89

Measurement procedure ...........................................................................................................89

Measurement Uncertainty ................................................................................................................92

Calibration of Absolute Accuracy ...................................................................................................92

Linearity using the R&S

NRPC-LS linearity standard..................................................................107

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

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1 General

Intended Use

The R&S®NRPC/NRVC Power Sensor Calibration Kits enable you to calibrate the power sensors of the R&S®NRP family. Connected between the RF output of a signal source and the sensor (DUT), you can use the calibration kits to perform both, absolute accuracy and linearity calibration. A power meter indicates the power standard output. The R&S®Recal+ software controls the calibration.

Key features

Various calibration kits are available for calibration of sensors depending on the frequency range. Calibration of the sensors is supported by the R&S®Recal+ software. All of the calibration kits are calibrated in a traceable manner by Deutscher Kalibrierdienst laboratory D-K-15195-01-01. This laboratory is accredited by the Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH for the relevant measured quantities (reflection, equivalent reflection and RF power). The appendix to the accreditation certificate can be found on the Internet at www.dakks.de.

The calibration kits support the following functions:

• Calibration of absolute accuracy for power sensors with N-50Ω, 3.5 mm, 2.92 mm, 2.4 mm, 1.85 mm

connectors from DC to max. 67 GHz

• Linearity calibration with a level range of −60 dBm to +35 dBm at 1 GHz

• Recording of the reflection with the additional program R&S®ZVX_RECAL

• Computation of new correction factors for the data memories based on the calibration data *)

• Rewriting to the data memories

• Report generation

*) For certain sensors (see Table 1-5 to Table 1-10), calibration is performed without rewriting the data memory.

Note: This document refers to the R&S®NRPC18, R&S®NRPC33, R&S®NRPC40, R&S®NRPC50

and R&S®NRPC67 calibration kits using the general designation R&S®NRPC.

Description of the Calibration Kits

The R&S®NRPC calibration kits support the common connector types that are used in the frequency range up to 67 GHz (Table 1-1).

Table 1-1 Calibration kits for absolute accuracy

Calibration kit

Connector type

Meas. level

Frequency range

R&S®NRPC18

N-50Ω

-20 dBm (10 µW) to +20 dBm (100 mW)

DC to 18 GHz

R&S®NRPC33

3.5 mm

-20 dBm (10 µW) to +20 dBm (100 mW)

DC to 33 GHz

R&S®NRPC40

2.92 mm

-20 dBm (10 µW) to +20 dBm (100 mW)

DC to 40 GHz

R&S®NRPC50

2.4 mm

-20 dBm (10 µW) to +20 dBm (100 mW)

DC to 50 GHz

R&S®NRPC67

1.85 mm

-20 dBm (10 µW) to +20 dBm (100 mW)

DC to 67 GHz

Calibration Kits for Power Sensors R&S NRPC

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The R&S®NRPC-LS calibration kit supports the linearity check at 1 GHz (Table 1-2).

Table 1-2 Calibration kit for linearity

Calibration kit

Connector type

Meas. level

Frequency

R&S®NRPC-LS

N-50Ω

-60 dBm (1 nW) to +35 dBm (3 W)

1 GHz

The R&S®NRPC-B1 options are verification sets for the power standards in the R&S®NRPC calibration kits. Each verification set contains a thermal sensor that is appropriate for the power standard (

Table 1-3).

Table 1-3 Options for the R&S®NRPC calibration kits

Option

Connector type

Function

Frequency range

R&S®NRPC18-B1

N-50Ω

For verification R&S®NRPC18

10 MHz to 18 GHz

R&S®NRPC33-B1

3.5 mm

For verification R&S®NRPC33

10 MHz to 33 GHz

R&S®NRPC40-B1

2.92 mm

For verification R&S®NRPC40

10 MHz to 40 GHz

R&S®NRPC50-B1

2.4 mm

For verification R&S®NRPC50

10 MHz to 50 GHz

R&S®NRPC67-B1

1.85 mm

For verification R&S®NRPC67

10 MHz to 67 GHz

Information about the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

The R&S®NRPC calibration kits use the technology in the R&S®NRP thermal sensors. The display of the RF power measurand takes place here entirely in the sensor all the way through the numerical measurement result. The R&S®NRX base unit is used only to set the sensor parameters and to display the measured value computed in the sensor. In this manner, any influence of the power meter base unit on the measured value is eliminated for the R&S®NRPC calibration kits. All of the necessary correction factors including the S-parameters for the reference attenuator are saved in the power standard's data memory .

Note: In the R&S®NRPC calibration kits, the power standards contain all of the necessary data

(correction and characteristic data).

Information about the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

The R&S®NRVC calibration kit is a discontinued product. The R&S®Recal+ software supports still the use of the R&S®NRVC calibration kit (Table 1-4). The option R&S®NRVC-B1 is a verification set for the power standard in the R&S®NRVC calibration kit. Each verification set contains two appropriate sensors for the given power standard.

Table 1-4 Obsolete R&S®NRVC calibration kits

Option

Connector type

Function

Frequency range

R&S®NRVC

N-50Ω

-30 dBm (1 µW) to +20 dBm (100 mW)

DC to 18 GHz

R&S®NRVC-B1

N-50Ω

For verification R&S®NRVC

10 MHz to 18 GHz

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

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Information and Instructions on Calibration

Warm-Up Time for Devices under Test (DUTs)

The sensors in the R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH family require a warm-up time of at least one hour after startup to attain their operating temperature. If it is frequently necessary to calibrate a series of sensors, let the uncalibrated sensors warm up while calibration is being performed on another one. In this application, they can be connected either to a multichannel R&S®NRX (option R&S®NRP-B2 and R&S®NRPB5) or to a PC, preferably via the four-channel R&S NRP-Z5 USB sensor hub (material number

1146.7740.02). Simply connecting the sensor to the PC is not sufficient for warm-up; instead, the sensor processor, which

is the main source of heat for the sensor, must be placed in a typical operating state. For this to occur, the sensor must be recognized by Windows after it is connected and properly numbered (entered in the Windows device manager in the USB controller device group).

For numbering purposes, Windows always needs the associated device drivers that R&S provides with the R&S®NRP Toolkit software. This software is supplied with all R&S NRP sensors and can also be obtained from the Rohde & Schwarz website. For proper numbering of a sensor, R&S®NRP Toolkit must be installed prior to connecting the sensor for the first time.

For the sensors in the R&S®NRV and R&S®URV5 family, it is adequate to wait for two minutes after connection to the R&S®NRVD.

Reflection Measurement

A sensor's reflection must always measured from two perspectives. On the one hand, it is an important device property. On the other hand, reflection data in complex notation can be used to reduce the measurement errors resulting from mismatching during calibration of absolute accuracy (see section “Checking the Absolute Accuracy”). Reflection measurement is supported by the R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program in conjunction with selected network analyzers from Rohde & Schwarz. In the appendix under Measurements on a Separate Measurement Setup in the Reflection section, methods are described for integrating reflection data from other network analyzers into the R&S®Recal+ software.

Calibration of Absolute Accuracy

Refreshing the Device under Test's Data Set

When absolute accuracy is checked, the DUT's power reading is compared with that of a power standard over the DUT's entire frequency range. A tolerance test that is performed automatically by the R&S®Recal+ software provides an indication of whether the sensor can be considered to comply with the specifications at the time point of delivery at the individual frequency points.

In order to ensure compliance with specifications for the following calibration interval, it is necessary for most sensors to also readjust the saved correction factors (calibration data) so that the errors that are measured compared to the power standard will disappear. This can be achieved in a subsequent measurement. Devices under test calibrated/adjusted in this manner reliably conform to the uncertainties specified in the data sheet.

A few sensors are specified such that the compliance with specifications is basically ensured if the tolerance limits used in calibration of absolute accuracy are met. In this case, it is not necessary to rewrite the correction factor memory (nor is it possible). In Table 1-5 to Table 1-10, these sensor types are indicated accordingly in the Absolute accuracy / Adjustment column.

Calibration Kits for Power Sensors R&S NRPC

1109.0930.32 - 14 9 E-14

Gamma Correction

Correction of the mismatch between the device under test and the power standard ( correction for short) generally reduces the influence of the mismatch by an order of magnitude. This correction is recommended in all cases, and it is even mandatory for some sensor types. These sensors are designated accordingly in Table 1-5 to Table 1-10.  correction is easy to activate via the user interface of the R&S®Recal+ software, but it does require the availability of reflection values for the device under test in complex notation. Reflection measurement is supported by the R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program in conjunction with selected network analyzers from Rohde & Schwarz.

R&S®NRP Sensors with Attenuator

Calibration is different with the R&S®NRP18S-10, -20, -25 and R&S®NRP-Z22, -Z23, -Z24 and -Z92 sensors which consist of a power sensor with an attenuator connected to the input. The attenuator is treated as a connectable S-parameter device for which separate correction factors are present in the data memory for the sensor. When these sensors are calibrated, the correction factors for the power sensor as well as for the attenuator must be refreshed if the uncertainties specified for the combination thereof are to be in conformance after the calibration.

Like all of the other R&S®NRP sensors, calibration of the power sensors is supported by the R&S®Recal+ software. However, calibration of the attenuators is not supported. Since the risk of significant measurement errors is much higher compared to power calibration, this should be handled only by experienced personnel using suitable measurement setups. The section S-parameter file for sensors with attenuators (see appendix under Measurements on a Separate Measurement Setup) contains further details.

Insight into whether the existing calibration values for the attenuator are roughly correct can be obtained with a check measurement supported by the R&S®Recal+ software on the power sensor with the attenuator screwed on.

Diode Sensors in the R&S®NRV and R&S®URV5 Families

Some of these sensors require a power level of less than 10 µW for calibration of absolute accuracy. Accordingly, it is necessary to connect the reference attenuator to the output of the power standard to reduce the power level.

Linearity Calibration

For most DUTs, calibration of the linearity is used only to check that the sensor is functioning properly. This means that the check for compliance with tolerance limits that is performed by the R&S®Recal+ software is fully adequate. In such cases, there is no need to refresh the set of correction factors (nor is it possible).

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

1109.0930.32 - 14 10 E-14

Information about the Supported Sensors

Calibration of absolute accuracy with standard R&S®NRPC

Table 1-5 Power sensors supported by the R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit

Type (model)

Absolute accuracy



correction

Frequency range, DUT (generator)

R&S®…

Adjustment

Check

Mandatory

NRP6A(N)

✓

8 kHz to 6 GHz

NRP18A(N)

✓

8 kHz to 18 GHz

NRP8S(N)

✓

10 MHz to 8 GHz

NRP18S(N)

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP18T(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP18S-10/-20/-25

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

FSH-Z1

✓

10 MHz to 8 GHz

FSH-Z18

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP-Z11

✓

10 MHz to 8 GHz

NRP-Z21/-Z22/-Z23/-Z24

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP-Z211

✓

10 MHz to 8 GHz

NRP-Z221

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP-Z51 (02, 62)

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP-Z51 (03)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP-Z81

✓

50 MHz to 18 GHz

NRP-Z91 (02, 04)

✓

9 kHz to 6 GHz

NRP-Z91 (08)

- ✓ -

10 MHz to 8 GHz

NRP-Z92

✓

9 kHz to 6 GHz

NRV-Z1/-Z2

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRV-Z4/-Z5

✓

100 kHz to 6 GHz

NRV-Z7/-Z8

✓

10 MHz to 13 GHz

NRV-Z31/-Z32/-Z33

- ✓ -

30 MHz to 6 GHz

NRV-Z51 (02, 04)

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRV-Z51 (06)

✓

1 kHz to 6 GHz

NRV-Z53/-Z54

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRV-Z53/-Z54

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRV-Z1/-Z2

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

Calibration Kits for Power Sensors R&S NRPC

1109.0930.32 - 14 11 E-14

Table 1-6 R&S®URV Voltage sensors supported by the R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit

Table 1-7 Power sensors supported by the R&S®NRPC33 calibration kit

Table 1-8 Power sensors supported by the R&S®NRPC40 calibration kit

Type (model)

Absolute accuracy



correction

Frequency range, DUT (generator)

R&S®…

Adjustment

Check

Mandatory

URV5-Z2 (02, 05)

- ✓ -

9 kHz to 3 GHz

URV5-Z2 (04)

- ✓ -

9 kHz to 1 GHz

URV5-Z2 (55, 56)

- ✓ -

9 kHz to 2 GHz

URV5-Z4 (02, 05)

- ✓ -

100 kHz to 3 GHz

URV5-Z4 (04)

- ✓ -

100 kHz to 2 GHz

URV5-Z4 (55, 56)

- ✓ -

100 kHz to 2 GHz

URV5-Z5 (55)

✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

URV5-Z7

- ✓ -

20 kHz to 1 GHz

URY-Z2

- ✓ -

9 kHz to 2 GHz

URY-Z4

- ✓ -

100 kHz to 2 GHz

URY-Z7

- ✓ -

20 kHz to 1 GHz

Type (model)

Absolute accuracy



correction

Frequency range, DUT (generator)

R&S®…

Adjustment

Check

Mandatory

NRP33S(N)(-V)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 33 GHz

NRP33T(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 33 GHz

NRP-Z31

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 33 GHz

NRP-Z52 (02, 62)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 33 GHz

NRP-Z52 (18)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 18 GHz

NRV-Z6

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 26.5 GHz

NRV-Z52

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 26.5 GHz

Type (model)

Absolute accuracy



correction

Frequency range, DUT (generator)

R&S®…

Adjustment

Check

Mandatory

NRP40S(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 40 GHz

NRP40T(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 40 GHz

NRP-Z41

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 40 GHz

NRP-Z55

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 40 GHz

NRP-Z85

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 40 GHz

NRV-Z15

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 40 GHz

NRV-Z55

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 40 GHz

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

1109.0930.32 - 14 12 E-14

Table 1-9 Power sensors supported by the R&S®NRPC50 calibration kit

Table 1-10 Power sensors supported by the R&S®NRPC67 calibration kit

Calibration of linearity with standard R&S®NRPC-LS

The R&S®NRPC-LS calibration kit allows the check of all R&S power sensors (see Table 1-5 to Table 1-10) at a calibration frequency of 1 GHz. Mostly, the power sensors are only checked and can not be adjusted. In case of the wideband sensors R&S®NRP-Z81, -Z85 and -Z86 also an adjustment can be performed.

Type (model)

Absolute accuracy



correction

Frequency range, DUT (generator)

R&S®…

Adjustment

Check

Mandatory

NRP50S(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 50 GHz

NRP50T(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 50 GHz

NRP-Z61

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 50 GHz

NRP-Z56

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 50 GHz

NRP-Z86 (40)

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 40 GHz

NRP-Z86 (44)

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 44 GHz

Type (model)

Absolute accuracy



correction

Frequency range, DUT (generator)

R&S®…

Adjustment

Check

Mandatory

NRP67S(N)(-V)

✓ ✓ ✓

50 MHz to 67 GHz

NRP67T(N)

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 67 GHz

NRP-Z57

✓ ✓ ✓

10 MHz to 67 GHz

Calibration Kits for Power Sensors R&S NRPC

1109.0930.32 - 14 13 E-14

2 Putting into Operation

Unpacking the Unit

Check the delivery to ensure that it is complete and that there are no signs of damage. If any damage is present, inform the carrier immediately and keep the packaging to support any subsequent claims.

R&S®NRPC18 and R&S®NRPC18-B1

The R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit is supplied together with the R&S®NRPC18-B1 option in a storage case (Fig. 2-1 and Table 2-1).

Fig. 2-1 R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit

Table 2-1 Individual parts in the R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit

Item no.

Designation

Material number

Power standard

1418.0948.03

20 dB reference attenuator

1109.0898.00

CD with manual, program and data

1109.0769.00

Microwave connecting cable N (male) – N (male)

1306.4620.00

Precision 50  termination

1418.1109.02

Adapter N (male) to BNC (male)

0351.7286.00

Adapter cable for connecting R&S®FSH-Z… sensors to the R&S®NRP (not shown)

1155.4940.00 Torque wrench (not shown)

1311.8242.04

Option: R&S®NRPC18-B1 verification kit

1418.0954.03

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

1109.0930.32 - 14 14 E-14

R&S®NRPC33 and R&S®NRPC33-B1

The R&S®NRPC33 calibration kit is supplied together with the R&S®NRPC33-B1 option in a storage case (Fig. 2-2 and Table 2-2).

Fig. 2-2 R&S®NRPC33 calibration kit

Table 2-2 Individual parts in the R&S®NRPC33 calibration kit

Item no.

Designation

Material number

Power standard

1418.0660.03

20 dB reference attenuator

1418.0731.00

CD with manual, program and data

1109.0769.00

Microwave connecting cable PC2.92 (male) – PC2.92 (male)

1159.6602.02

Replacement adapter PC2.4 (male) – PC3.5 (female) for the test port

1418.0902.00 Adapter for linearity N (male) – SMA (female)

4012.5837.00

Torque wrench

1311.8213.02

Option: R&S®NRPC33-B1 verification kit

1418.0683.03

Calibration Kits for Power Sensors R&S NRPC

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R&S®NRPC40 and R&S®NRPC40-B1

The R&S®NRPC40 calibration kit is supplied together with the R&S®NRPC40-B1 option in a storage case (Fig. 2-3 and Table 2-3).

Fig. 2-3 R&S®NRPC40 calibration kit

Table 2-3 Individual parts in the R&S®NRPC40 calibration kit

Item no.

Designation

Material number

Power standard

1159.6625.03

20 dB reference attenuator

1159.6654.00

CD with manual, program and data

1109.0769.00

Microwave connecting cable PC2.92 (male) – PC2.92 (male)

1159.6602.00

Replacement adapter PC2.4 (male) – PC2.92 (female) for the test port

1418.0919.00 Adapter N (male) – SMA (female)

4012.5837.00

Torque wrench

1311.8213.02

Option: R&S®NRPC40-B1 verification kit

1159.6819.03

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R&S®NRPC50 and R&S®NRPC50-B1

The R&S®NRPC50 calibration kit is supplied together with the R&S®NRPC50-B1 option in a storage case (Fig. 2-4 and Table 2-4).

Fig. 2-4 R&S®NRPC50 calibration kit

Table 2-4 Individual parts in the R&S®NRPC50 calibration kit

Item no.

Designation

Material number

Power standard

1159.6725.03

CD with manual, program and data

1109.0769.00

Microwave connecting cable PC2.4 (male) – PC2.4 (male)

1159.6619.00

Replacement adapter PC2.4 (male) – PC2.4 (female) for the test port

1418.0925.00 Adapter N (male) – PC2.4 (female)

1159.6919.00

Torque wrench

1311.8213.02

Option: R&S®NRPC50-B1 verification kit

1159.6890.03

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R&S®NRPC67 and R&S®NRPC67-B1

The R&S®NRPC67 calibration kit is supplied together with the R&S®NRPC67-B1 option in a storage case (Fig. 2-5 and Table 2-5).

Fig. 2-5 R&S®NRPC67 calibration kit

Table 2-5 Individual parts in the R&S®NRPC67 calibration kit

Item no.

Designation

Material number

Power standard

1418.1573.02

CD with manual, program and data

1109.0769.00

Microwave connecting cable PC1.85 (male) - PC1.85 (male)

1306.4736.00

Replacement adapter PC1.85 (male) – PC1.85 (female) for the test port

1418.1767.00 Adapter N (male) – PC2.4 (female)

1159.6919.00

Torque wrench

1311.8213.02

Option: R&S®NRPC67-B1 verification kit

1418.1550.02

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R&S®NRPC-LS

Fig. 2-6 R&S®NRPC-LS Linearity Standard

Table 2-6 Ordering information for NRPC-LS calibration kit

Item no.

Designation

Material number

Linearity standard

1421.7004.02

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Additional Hardware Requirements

Several additional devices that are not included in the delivery are required in order to perform calibrations:

Required devices for operation of an R&S®NRPC:

• Controller (PC) with IEC/IEEE bus interface from National Instruments

• R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable

• R&S®NRX power meter with options B1 and K2, respectively

• Generator for calibration of absolute accuracy and linearity

• Vector network analyzer for calibration of matching

• Calibration kit for calibration of network analyzer

The following sections provide detailed descriptions of the devices listed above.

Devices for the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Controller

The entire calibration procedure, i.e. recording measured values, setting the generators and reading from and writing to the calibration data memory, is remote-controlled from a PC. The hardware requirements (clock frequency, RAM, hard disk space) are not critical; the operating system must be Microsoft Windows® 10.

Also required is a National Instruments IEC/IEEE bus interface which can run under the installed operating system and act as the interface to the measuring instruments. Before using the calibration kit for the first time, test the installation of the IEC/IEEE bus card with the tools supplied by the manufacturer ( ib- conf, ibdiag, etc.).

R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable

For the R&S®NRPxxS/SN and R&S®NRPxxT/TN power sensors an R&S®NRP-ZK6 or R&S®NRP-ZK8 (Table 2-7) interface cable is mandatory.

Table 2-7 Interface Cable for R&S®NRPxxS/SN power sensors

Type

Option

Material number

R&S®NRP-ZK6

length: 1.5 m

1419.0664.02

length: 3 m

1419.0664.03

length: 5 m

1419.0664.04

R&S®NRP-ZK8

length: 1.5 m

1424.9408.02

length: 3 m

1424.9408.03

length: 5 m

1424.9408.04

R&S®NRX Power Meter

For operation of the R&S®Recal+ calibration software in conjunction with an R&S®NRPC power standard, an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory. This device also needs to be fitted with option R&S®NRX-B1, a 50 MHz/1GHz sensor check source, so that a quick check of the sensors can be performed before calibration is started. In order for the

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R&S®Recal+ calibration software to function properly, the appropriate firmware version must be installed in the R&S®NRX. The firmware must be replaced if the displayed version number is less than 02.31.

Table 2-8 Ordering information for the R&S®NRX power meter

Type

R&S®NRX

Power unit

Option: R&S®NRX-B1

Sensor check source

Option: R&S®NRX-K2

2nd measurement channel

Option: R&S®NRX-B4

3rd and 4th sensor inputs (C, D)

Material number

1424.7005.02

1424.7805.02

1424.9208.02

1424.8901.02

Generators for Calibration of Absolute Accuracy

The required characteristics depend on the frequency measurement range and the power measurement range of the DUT (Table 1-5 to Table 1-10). The generator that is selected must cover the entire frequency range. Table 2-9 shows a selection of generators from the current R&S product line that are recommended for operation of the R&S®NRPC calibration kit. This selection makes it possible to cover a wide frequency range with only a few types.

We recommend the generator R&S®SMA100B with option R&S®SMA100B-B120 since it can be used for calibration of absolute accuracy as well as linearity.

Older generators supported by the R&S®Recal+ software are listed in

Table 2-11.

Table 2-9 Supported generators in the current product range

f range, DUT 

Generator type + options 

≥ 8 kHz to ≤ 6 GHz

≥ 8 kHz to ≤ 18 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 18 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 40 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 50 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 67 GHz

R&S®SMA100B* + options R&S®SMAB-B106, R&S®SMAB-K31, R&S®SMAB-B32

✓

R&S®SMA100B* + options R&S®SMAB-B120, R&S®SMAB-K33, R&S®SMAB-B34

✓ ✓ ✓

R&S®SMA100B + option R&S®SMAB-B140

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

R&S®SMA100B + options R&S®SMAB-B150, R&S®SMAB-B37

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

R&S®SMA100B + options R&S®SMAB-B167, R&S®SMAB-B39 R&S®SMAB-K40

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

R&S®SMB100A + options -B120, -B31 **

✓

R&S®SMB100A + options -B140, -B32

✓

* The options “High output power” (R&S®SMAB-K31, R&S®SMAB-K33) and “Ultra high output power” (R&S®SMAB-B32, R&S®SMAB-B34) are necessary only for calibration of the linearity. It is recommended to select this option.

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** The option R&S

SMB-B31 is necessary only for calibration of the R&S®NRV-Z53/-Z54 power sensors.

Table 2-10 Ordering information for the generators in the current R&S product range

Type

Material number

Options

Material number

for option

R&S®SMA100B

1419.8888.02

6 GHz

R&S®SMAB-B106 R&S®SMAB-K31 R&S®SMAB-B32

1420.8588.02

1420.7100.02

1420.7200.02

20 GHz

R&S®SMAB-B120 R&S®SMAB-K33 R&S®SMAB-B34

1420.8788.02

1420.7300.02

1420.7400.02

40 GHz

R&S®SMAB-B140

1420.8988.02

50 GHz

R&S®SMAB-B150 R&S®SMAB-B37

1420.9049.02

1420.7700.02

67 GHz

R&S®SMAB-B167 R&S®SMAB-B39 R&S®SMAB-K40

1420.9149.02

1420.7900.02

1420.9278.02

R&S®SMB100A

1406.6000.02

20 GHz

R&S®SMB-B120 R&S®SMB-B31

1407.2209.02

1407.1260.02

40 GHz

R&S®SMB-B140 R&S®SMB-B32

1407.2309.02

1407.1360.02

Table 2-11 Supported generators that are no longer available

f range, DUT 

≥ 9 kHz to ≤ 3 GHz

≥ 9 kHz to ≤ 6 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 18 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 26.5 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 33 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 40 GHz

Generator type 

R&S®SML03, R&S®SMV03

✓

R&S®SME06, R&S®SMT06

✓

R&S®SMB100A + option -B106

✓

R&S®SMR20

✓

R&S®SMR27/30

✓

(✓)

R&S®SMR40

✓

(✓) (✓) *

R&S®SMP02/22

✓

R&S®SMP03

✓

R&S®SMP04

✓ ✓ ✓

(✓) *

R&S®SMF100A + options -B144, -B2, -B27, + option –B34

✓ ✓ ✓

* Only suitable for calibration R&S®NRV-Z6/-Z15.

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Generators for Calibration of Linearity

R&S®SMA100B Generator is mandatory for linearity measurements by R&S®Recal+ with the R&S®NRPC-LS calibration kit. All R&S power sensors (see Table 1-5 to Table 1-10) are measured at a calibration frequency of 1 GHz. The R&S®SMA100B with frequency option up to 20 GHz and with output power options “High output power” and “Ultra high output power” is excellent suitable for calibration of linearity (Table 2-9).

Vector Network Analyzers for Calibration of Matching

The required characteristics are focused primarily on the frequency range and connector used by the DUT (Table 1-5 to Table 1-10). Its lower frequency limit is less important since R&S sensors at least do not exhibit any significant changes in the matching at lower frequencies. Accordingly, a standard lower frequency limit of 10 MHz can be assumed when selecting an appropriate analyzer.

Table 2-12 shows a group of network analyzers selected based on this perspective where the objective is to cover a very large frequency range with very few types. Only these analyzers along with those listed in Table 2-13 which are no longer sold are currently supported by the R&S®Recal+ calibration software and the R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program. Of course, it is also possible to use other network analyzers. However, the user must take care to ensure that the appropriate frequency points are measured and the calibration results are made available in the necessary file format (see appendix under Measure- ments on a Separate Measurement Setup in the Matching section, Separate recording of the matching).

For calibration of the supported network analyzers, the calibration kits listed in Table 2-15 are recommended. For sensors with a 3.5 mm connector, the R&S®ZV-Z235 standard kit with a frequency range of 24 GHz is not adequate. Instead, the “E” version must be used. It is specified for use up to 33 GHz.

Note: For the sake of traceability and higher accuracy, German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) cali-

bration is recommended at the laboratory D-K-15195-01-01 operated by Rohde & Schwarz.

The German Accreditation Body calibration must generally be ordered separately. It is in-

cluded with the item only for the R&S®ZV-Z235E and R&S®NRPC calibration kits.

Table 2-12 Supported network analyzers in the current product range

f range, DUT 

Type 

≥ 8 kHz to ≤ 6 GHz

≥ 8 kHz to ≤ 18 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 18 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 40 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 50 GHz

≥ 10 MHz to ≤ 67 GHz

R&S®ZNB8

✓ *

R&S®ZNB20

✓ *

✓ * ✓

R&S®ZNB40

✓ *

✓

R&S®ZVA24

✓

R&S®ZVA40

✓

R&S®ZVA50

✓

R&S®ZVA67

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

* A VNA with a lower frequency limit of 9 kHz is sufficient. The calibration software extrapolates the 8 kHz Matching value.

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Table 2-13 Supported network analyzers which are no longer available

Type

R&S®… calibration kit used for power calibration

NRPC18

NRPC33

NRPC40

NRPC50

R&S®ZVM

✓

R&S®ZVB20

✓

R&S®ZVK

✓

Table 2-14 Ordering information for network analyzers

Type

Material number

Comments

R&S®ZNB8

1311.6010.42

Versions with four ports are also supported

R&S®ZNB20

1311.6010.62

R&S®ZNB40

1311.6010.72

R&S

ZVA24

1145.1110.24

R&S

ZVA40

1145.1110.40

R&S

ZVA50

1145.1110.50

R&S

ZVA67

1305.7002.02

Table 2-15 Recommended calibration kits for network analyzers

Connector

N-50 

3.5 mm

2.92 mm

2.4 mm

1.85 mm

Frequency range

DC to 18 GHz

DC to 33 GHz

DC to 40 GHz

DC to 50 GHz

DC to 67 GHz

Type

R&S®ZV-Z270

R&S®ZV-Z235E

R&S®ZN-Z229

R&S®ZN-Z224

R&S®ZN-Z218

Table 2-16 Ordering information for calibration kits

Type

Material number

Comments

R&S

ZV-Z270

5011.6536.02

German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) calibration must be ordered separately

R&S

ZV-Z235E

5011.6707.02

German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) calibration included

R&S

ZN-Z229

1336.7004.02

German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) calibration must be ordered separately

R&S

ZN-Z224

1339.5002.02

German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) calibration must be ordered separately

R&S

ZN-Z218

1337.3502.02

German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) calibration must be ordered separately

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Power Calibration for R&S®NRP Sensors

Power calibration of the older R&S®NRV and R&S®URV Sensors are shown in the Appendix, s. Power Calibration for R&S®NRV and R&S®URV Sensors.

R&S®NRP Sensors 10 MHz (8 kHz) up to 18 GHz

Fig. 2-7 to Fig. 2-8 show the measurement setups used for calibration of absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit.

Fig. 2-7 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRP power meter family. (Start frequency 8 kHz only using generator R&S®SMA100B.)

• For the R&S®NRPxxS(N), R&S®NRPxxT(N) and R&S®NRPxxA(N) power sensors an R&S®NRP-

ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable as well as an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory.

• The generator R&S®SMA100B covers the entire frequency range of 8 kHz up to 18 GHz. In this

case the R&S®NRP18A(N) average power sensor can be calibrated.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required.

R&S®FSH-Z1, -Z18

Fig. 2-8 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®FSH-Z1, -Z18.

• Adapter cable is necessary for connecting the sensor to the R&S®NRX.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required.

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1109.0930.32 - 14 25 E-14

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 33 GHz

Fig. 2-9 shows the measurement setups used for calibration of absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRPC33 calibration kit.

Fig. 2-9 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRP power meter family.

• For the R&S®NRPxxS/SN and R&S®NRPxxT/TN power sensors an R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 inter-

face cable as well as an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required.

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 40 GHz

Fig. 2-10 shows the measurement setups used for calibration of absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRPC40 calibration kit.

Fig. 2-10 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRP power meter family.

• For the R&S®NRPxxS/SN and R&S®NRPxxT/TN power sensors an R&S®NRP-ZK6 interface ca-

ble as well as an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required.

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1109.0930.32 - 14 26 E-14

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 50 GHz

Fig. 2-11 shows the measurement setup used for calibration of absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRPC50 calibration kit.

Fig. 2-11 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRP power meter family.

• For the R&S®NRPxxS/SN and R&S®NRPxxT/TN power sensors an R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 inter-

face cable as well as an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required.

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 67 GHz

Fig. 2-12 shows the measurement setup used for calibration of absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRPC67 calibration kit.

Fig. 2-12 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRP power meter family.

• For the R&S®NRPxxS/SN and R&S®NRPxxT/TN power sensors an R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 inter-

face cable as well as an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required.

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1109.0930.32 - 14 27 E-14

Linearity Calibration for R&S®NRP Sensors

R&S®NRP Sensors

NRX

Generator

Adapter

NRPC67

DUT

NRPC-LS

RF Cable

10 MHz reference

Fig. 2-13 Measurement setup for linearity calibration for R&S®NRP power meter family.

• R&S®SMA100B is recommended for calibration of linearity.

• The internal reference oscillator of the generator (10 MHz) has to be connected with the reference

clock of the R&S®NRPC-LS for synchronization.

• For the R&S®NRPC-LS an R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable is mandatory.

• For the R&S®NRPxxS(N), R&S®NRPxxT(N) and R&S®NRPxxA(N) power sensors an R&S®NRP-

ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable as well as an R&S®NRX power meter is mandatory.

• To allow connection of DUTs with 3.5 mm connectors, the R&S®NRPC33 calibration kits include

adapter .

• To allow connection of DUTs with 2.92 mm connectors, the R&S®NRPC40 calibration kits include

adapter .

• To allow connection of DUTs with 2.4 mm connectors, the R&S®NRPC50 calibration kit includes

adapter .

• To allow connection of DUTs with 1.85 mm connectors, the R&S®NRPC67 calibration kit includes

adapter .

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3 Sensor Calibration

Preparation

Installing the R&S®Recal+ Calibration Software on the Hard Disk

The R&S®Recal+ software for the R&S®NRPC calibration kits is on the program CD and must be installed on the controller’s hard disk before the calibration kit is used for the first time. Installation is handled on an interactive basis by executing Recal+_Setup_<>.msi (e.g. Recal+_Setup_5.00.msi). The R&S®Recal+ program group and the corresponding directory structure will be created automatically.

Note: First generation of R&S®NRPC-LS (with power spliter, with DC Input Port) only supported

by R&S®Recal+ Version 4.02 and Version 4.03.

Second generation of R&S®NRPC-LS (with directional coupler, without DC Input Port) only

supported by R&S®Recal+ Version 5.00 and higger.

Installing the R&S®ZVX_RECAL Additional Program on the Hard Disk

The R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program allows reflection measurements under program control using the R&S®Recal+ software in conjunction with selected network analyzers from Rohde & Schwarz. It is also found on CD-ROM . Installation is handled interactively by executing the file setup.exe. After the

program is successfully installed, the dialog box Measurement with NRPC (after pressing the button ) should have the Reflection / S Parameter tab (Fig. 6-3). From there, the network analyzer and DUT are selected and the test program is launched.

Starting the Calibration Software

➢ Start the calibration software by double-clicking the following icon

on the desktop or the entry in the corresponding program group in the Windows Start menu.

When R&S®Recal+ is called for the first time, some variables are not yet defined. Accordingly, follow the prompt to enter the name and address of the calibration laboratory, initialize the measuring equipment, etc. The required steps are described in detail in the sections below. All entries are stored in the

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1109.0930.32 - 14 29 E-14

recal32.ini initialization file in the Windows directory and are applied automatically when R&S®Recal+ is called again. They can be updated when necessary by using the Options... menu.

Entering the Name and Address of the Calibration Laboratory

➢ Enter the required information in the General Sensor Data dialog box:

• Name of the calibration laboratory (max. 20 characters)

• Name of the person carrying out the calibration: Up to 5 persons (max. 20 characters per entry).

To enter a new name, mark the name currently displayed, overwrite it and complete the entry by pressing the Enter key. Use the Delete button to delete individual names

• Name of the company to which the calibration laboratory belongs (max. 40 characters)

• Company address (max. 40 characters)

➢ Press the OK button. For subsequent modifications, use the General Sensor Data... dialog box in

the Options menu

Defining Directories

After correct installation, the subdirectories shown below should have been created. Confirm the settings by pressing the OK button or select other subdirectories by using the Browse... buttons.

Press the OK button. For subsequent modifications, use the Directories... dialog box in the Options menu.

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Initializing the Measuring Equipment

All remote-controlled measuring devices (R&S®NRX, generator for calibration of absolute accuracy, generator for linearization and vector network analyzer) must be initialized before any measurements are made.

➢ Connect these devices via the IEC/IEEE bus to the controller and switch them on

Configuration of Power Meters with the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Operating an R&S®NRPC calibration kit requires at least one R&S®NRX base unit to which the power standards and sensors in the R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH-Z families can be connected. For calibration of sensors in the R&S®NRV-Z and R&S®URV5-Z series, an R&S®NRVD base unit is also necessary. Overall, two base units can be controlled. The DUT must be connected to Channel A or Channel B of the Basic Power Meter and the power standards can be connected to all available channels. The following tables show the possible combinations:

Basic Power Meter

Meter 2**

R&S®NRX

Channel A (B)

Channel B (A)

Channel C / D*

Channel A / B / C / D*

DUT (R&S®NRP / R&S®FSH-Z)

R&S®NRPC

* Availability depends on the configuration of the R&S®NRX. ** Necessary if more power standards from the R&S®NRPC calibration kits are to be connected.

➢ Regardless of the selected combination, the R&S®NRPC reinitializes prior to calibration of a sensor.

After pressing the Add data ... (Error! Reference source not found.) button, information is provided for each R&S®NRPC that was used in the last calibration. After changing the power standard, this information is not updated immediately. Instead, it is updated after launching a new measure-

ment (button ).

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Initializing the R&S®NRX

➢ In the Options menu, open the Remote Devices… dialog

➢ Select the Meter tab

➢ Press the Search NRX button within the Basic Power Meter panel. The calibration software now

searches for an R&S®NRX device from among the devices that are connected to the IEC/IEEE bus. If the search is successful, the address of the device is displayed in the address field. Press the

Search NRX key again if a second R&S®NRX was found which should not be used as the basic power meter

➢ Press the Initialize button

➢ The calibration software initializes the R&S®NRX that was found at the specified address

➢ If a second R&S®NRX is available, press the Use Meter 2 button and proceed accordingly

Initializing the Generators

➢ In the Options menu, open the Remote Devices… dialog box

➢ Select the Generator tab

➢ Select the type to be used in the Generator (for absolute accuracy measurement) panel

➢ Press the Search Generator, Initialize and Add data... buttons to initialize the generator and enter

the calibration expiry date and the calibration certificate number. The serial number must also be entered in the case of some older generators

Note: If multiple generators for calibrating absolute accuracy are connected at the same time, e.g.

an R&S®SMA100A-B106 and an R&S®SMF100A-B144, only one of the devices can be initialized. If the generator is replaced, reinitialization is necessary. The previously assigned IEC/IEEE bus address will automatically be suggested.

In the Generator (for linearity measurement) panel, press the Search Generator, Initialize and Add data... buttons in that order and enter the calibration expiry date and the calibration certificate number

(see above).

➢ Press the Close button. All entries are then stored in the recal32.ini file and can be automatically

used by R&S®Recal+ when the software is accessed again. For subsequent modifications, use the Remote Devices... dialog box in the Options menu

Initializing Network Analyzers

➢ In the Options menu, open the Remote Devices… dialog box

➢ Select the Network Analyzer tab

➢ Select the type that is used

➢ Press the Search Analyzer, Initialize and Add data... buttons to initialize the vector network ana-

lyzer and enter the calibration expiry date and the calibration certificate number

➢ Press the Close button. All entries are then stored in the recal32.ini file and can be automatically

used by R&S®Recal+ when the software is accessed again. For subsequent modifications, use the

Remote Devices... dialog box in the Options menu

Note: In order for the Network Analyzer tab to appear, the additional program ZVX_RECAL must

be installed.

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Performing the Calibration

A power or voltage sensor is calibrated in several phases that are shown in Table 3-1 in the appropriate order. After the incoming inspection, calibration of the incoming condition is performed for the matching, absolute accuracy and linearity. The software checks the resulting data for compliance with the appropriate tolerance limits. For sensors whose correction factor set can be refreshed, this data forms the basis for a new correction factor set.

As the next step, an initial report can be generated with the Calibration Report (Incoming). This documentation should be prepared as a rule for all sensors whose correction factor set (EPROM file) cannot be overwritten, e.g. for all voltage sensors in the R&S®URV5-Z series. For these sensors, the calibration process is also generally complete once the Calibration Report (Incoming) is generated. DUTs that exceed the tolerance limits must be sent to the manufacturer for repair.

In the case of sensors whose correction factor set can be overwritten (i.e. almost all of the power sensors), reporting of the incoming condition is necessary only if the DUT exhibited non-compliance with the relevant specifications. If the measurement errors are so large that the device is clearly damaged or subject to unnatural premature ageing, the DUT must also be sent for repair. Otherwise, the correction factor set may be overwritten.

The new correction factor set is obtained from the measurement results gathered during the incoming test and the saved correction factors. Overwriting the data memory with this data ensures that the DUT uncertainty during subsequent usage is only slightly larger than the uncertainty of the calibration. In order to verify this, the absolute accuracy is generally tested once again after the data memory is refreshed. For some sensors, this also includes a check of the linearity (with the modified correction factors). The measurement results are documented with the Calibration Report. Archival of all relevant data represents the completion of the calibration cycle.

The sequence of calibration steps suggested in Table 3-1 is not mandatory when using the R&S®Recal+ calibration software, i.e. users are free to create a calibration cycle that best meets their requirements. For example, they can choose to omit documentation, repeat measurements several times or omit individual calibration steps (e.g. linearization or matching). On the other hand, it is not possible to select meaningless combinations such as calculating a new EPROM file without measurement data. The following sections explain each of the calibration steps in detail.

Table 3-1 Overview of a complete calibration cycle

Phase

Section

Comments

Preparation

Incoming inspection

Checking matching

Calibration on delivery

Checking linearity

Checking absolute accuracy

Measuring the attenuator, if relevant

On ext. meas. setup (only for the R&S®NRP-Z22/23/24/92)

III

Documentation of calibration

Generating the calibration report (incoming)

Refreshing the data memory

Calculating a new EPROM file

Overwriting the data memory

Outgoing calibration

Checking absolute accuracy

[Checking linearity]

Only sensors whose correction factor set can be overwritten

Documentation of calibration

Generating the calibration report

VII

Archiving

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Important:

• The ambient temperature during calibration should be 23 °C. Deviations of (-3/+2) °C maxi-

mum are permissible, but should be avoided if possible. Larger temperature deviations may cause the measurement uncertainties specified for the R&S®NRPC calibration kits to be exceeded

• Allow the test setup to warm up for at least one hour prior to calibration

• After the power standard and linearity standard are connected to the base unit, allow them to

warm up for at least one hour

• Sensors in the R&S®URV5-Z and R&S®NRV series must be allowed a few minutes to obtain

normal operating temperature after insertion into the R&S®NRVD base unit. Due to their higher self-warming, power sensors in the R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH-Z series require about 30 minutes to warm up on an R&S®NRX base unit or PC

Incoming Inspection

To prevent measurement errors during calibration as a result of soiled, worn or loose RF connectors and cabling that has sustained wear and tear, the DUT should be examined closely by performing a few simple inspections and tests before the main measurements are performed. This also prevents any potential damage to the calibration kit:

➢ Inspect the sensor cable for external damage and verify that it is properly connected to the sensor

and data memory

➢ Clean the RF connectors

➢ Check the position of the inner conductor with respect to the reference plane of the RF connector

➢ Connect the DUT to a suitable base unit

➢ Connect the DUT's RF interface to the test generator and make sure there is a good connection

between the connector and the sensor casing

➢ Power on the test generator. The power reading must be stable even if the sensor cable is moved or

the sensor casing is bent or twisted slightly

Only for sensors in the R&S®NRP or R&S®FSH-Z series:

➢ Launch the R&S®Recal+ software and initialize the base unit as a basic power meter

➢ Press the button in the toolbar and open the NRP Sensor Test tab

➢ Select the DUT and perform the built-in self-test by pressing the Execute Test button. The test re-

sults consist of a global “SUCCESSFUL / FAILED” assessment along with individual test results

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Fig. 3-1 NRP Sensor Test tab with measurement results

Checking the Matching

The DUT's matching is measured with the aid of a vector network analyzer. The required steps are described under Measurements on a Separate Measurement Setup in the Matching section of the appendix.

If it is necessary to measure the absolute accuracy with gamma correction, the DUT's reflection data must be determined beforehand and saved in the directory

...\recal\measure.dat . Otherwise, the gamma correction function cannot be activated.

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Checking the Linearity

Fig. 3-2 Linearity tab at the end of a measurement procedure

➢ Prepare the appropriate test setup for the sensor as described in Fig. 2-13

➢ Initialize any measuring devices that have not yet been initialized (Meter or Generator tab)

➢ Press the button in the toolbar

➢ Select the Linearity tab

➢ Select the graphics or numerical display mode for measured values (see below for explanation)

➢ Press the Start button:

The linearity measurement will now start. Starting from the sensor's specific reference power, the power applied to the DUT is increased until the nominal power is reached. The relative changes in power measured by the DUT (voltage changes for the R&S®URV5-Z... sensors) are compared with the changes measured by the linearity standard and output as linearity errors in %.

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Note: During the linearity measurement on R&S®NRP sensors, the R&S®NRX base unit may gen-

erate an overload message at the last level step. It is safe to ignore this message.

➢ Check whether the measured errors are within the tolerance band in the graphical display

➢ Press the Save button to save the measurement results in a file with the specified file name

Note: Only saved measurement results can be output in the calibration report and considered

when the data memory contents are recalculated.

Repeating incorrect measurements

Occasionally, a measurement may have to be repeated because, for example, the sensor’s RF connector

is loose. In this case, press the Start button to restart the measurement.

Displaying the measurement results on screen

The linearity errors of the DUT can be displayed in graphical or list format. You can toggle between the two modes by pressing the Numeric (Diagram) button. Graphical displays can be printed out by pressing the Print button.

Graphical display (nonlinearity of DUT)

The linearity errors of the DUT are plotted as the Rel. error (%) together with the tolerance band versus the input power Pin or the input voltage Vin. Generally, it can be assumed that a sensor that exceeds the

tolerance limits is defective and must be sent back to Rohde & Schwarz central service for repair. This applies at least to all sensors for which a correction of the linearity is not possible (see Table 1-5 to Table 1-10). The measurement points at which the tolerance limits are exceeded are indicated by an asterisk () in the calibration report.

The vertical resolution of the diagram can be set to a customized scaling or via the Resolution control panel using one of the following four settings: Pre. (x %) / Fine (1 %) / Coarse (50 %) / y %. Pre (x %) yields the optimum resolution for the sensor (Preset) and y % is the customized scaling last selected. Customized scaling can be set as follows:

➢ Move the mouse cursor to the label for the highest value on the scale and wait for the symbol to

appear. Then double-click and enter the number needed for this maximum value

➢ To enlarge the graphical display, position the mouse cursor over the diagram, wait for the

symbol to appear and double-click. By clicking the right mouse button, you can display a contextual menu in the zoomed mode without having to return to the normal display (Esc key).

Outputting numeric measured values

The list has four columns, namely the index number of the level step (Index), the nominal level step (Nom. Level in W or V), the value measured for the DUT (Meas. Level in W or V) and the linearity error of the DUT (Error in %).

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Troubleshooting measurement problems

Problem

Cause /  Solution

• The Start button cannot be pressed

The linearity standard and/or DUT are not connected to the R&S®NRVD or R&S®NRX:

➢ Check the test setup as shown in Fig. 2-13

The R&S®NRVD, R&S®NRX and/or generator have not been initialized:

➢ Select the Meter and/or Generator tab and repeat the initialization

• The following error message appears at the

start of or during the measurements:

Error detected: Measurement out of tolerance (+/- 50%) Please check your test equipment

The level on the linearity standard and/or DUT is too high/low:

➢ Check the test setup as shown in Fig. 2-13

➢ Verify the calibration kit

Checking the Absolute Accuracy

Fig. 3-3 Absolute Accuracy tab at the end of a measurement sequence.

➢ If the measurement is to be performed with gamma correction, determine the DUT's reflection data

beforehand and save the data in the ...\recal\measure.dat directory

➢ Prepare the test setup as shown in Fig. 2-7 to Fig. 2-11

➢ Initialize the measuring devices that have not already been initialized (Meter and Generator tabs)

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➢ Press the button

➢ Select the Absolute Accuracy tab

➢ Select the measurement channel to which the DUT is connected

➢ If the measurement must be performed with gamma correction for the sake of accuracy (generally

for all thermal sensors in the R&S®NRP series and all sensors with a frequency range of more than 18 GHz), the corresponding check box must be activated. The measurement can then be started only if reflection data is available for the DUT in complex notation. Otherwise, an error message will appear! In order to still perform a measurement, the check box for gamma correction must be deactivated by the user. In this case, the software outputs a warning after the measurement is started. The measurement data generated in this manner may not be used to create a new correction factor set

If gamma correction is not required for the DUT, the check box is deactivated immediately after opening the dialog. However, it can be activated to increase the accuracy, but the reflection data for the DUT must then be available in complex notation.

For the sensors in the R&S®URV5-Z series, gamma correction is not possible in any case.

➢ Specify the number of measurement cycles in the control panel on the far right (1, 2, 3, 4). For

the incoming calibration, at least three cycles should be performed as a basis for recalculating the correction factors. For the second calibration after the data memory has been overwritten, one measurement is usually sufficient because the measurement errors are very small

➢ Select graphical or numeric result display (see explanation below)

➢ Press the Start 1 button:

The first cycle is started. When measurements are performed with the reference attenuator, the Attenuator dialog box may appear shortly after the start. Press the OK button only if you are sure that the

displayed file is the correct one for the attenuator in the measurement setup (file name to the right of the at header is identical to the serial number of the attenuator).

Otherwise, select the appropriate file from the file selection list. The routine display of the Attenuator dialog box can be suppressed by clearing the Confirm before each measurement check box.

If several measurement cycles are carried out, the following dialog box is displayed after each cycle:

➢ Undo the RF connector and turn the sensor/attenuator by 90°, 120° or 180° depending on the num-

ber of cycles. Treat the power attenuator of the R&S®NRV-Z32/-Z33/-Z53/-Z54 sensors as the reference attenuator. Then press the Ja (Yes) button. Once the measurement sequence has been completed, the averaged power or voltage ratio is displayed as a red line in the diagram

➢ Press the Save button to save the measurement results in a file with the specified file name

Note: Only saved measurement results can be output in the calibration report and considered

when the data memory contents are recalculated.

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Repeating faulty measurements

Occasionally, a measurement may have to be repeated because, for example, the sensor’s RF connector

is loose. In this case, mark the faulty cycle in the Data set control panel and press the Clear button. The associated measurement result display is then removed from the diagram. Then press the Start... button to repeat the measurement.

Displaying the measurement results on screen

The measurement errors of the DUT can be displayed in graphical or list format. You can toggle between the two modes by pressing the Numeric (Diagram) button. Graphical displays can be printed out by pressing the Print button. The data to be displayed can be selected via the “Data Set/Path” control panel (in the case of the R&S®NRP sensors) or “Data Set” (in all other cases).

Graphical display (Meas. deviation of DUT)

The measurement errors of the DUT are displayed together with the tolerance band as a power ratio

Pm/P

ref

or a voltage ratio Vm/V

ref

(index m: DUT) versus frequency. The R&S®URV5-Z2/-Z4/-Z7 and

R&S®NRV-Z31/-Z32/-Z33 sensors should be considered defective if the tolerance limits are exceeded, in which case they must be sent back to Rohde & Schwarz central service for repair. Otherwise, a decision must be made on a case-by-case basis. Out-of-tolerance conditions below 1 GHz often indicate that the sensor is defective. The measurement points at which the tolerance limits are exceeded are indicated by an asterisk () in the calibration report.

Graphical display can be set via the Lin/Log (scale for frequency axis) and Resolution (vertical resolution) control panels. Vertical resolution can be customized, or one of the following four settings can be selected - Pre. (x) / Fine (1.05) / Coarse (1.5) / y. The Pre. (x) setting yields the optimum resolution (Preset) for the sensor and y is the customized scaling last selected.

Customized scaling can be set as follows:

➢ Move the mouse cursor to the label for the highest value on the scale and wait for the symbol to

appear. Then double-click and enter the number needed for this maximum value

➢ To enlarge the graphical display, position the mouse cursor over the diagram, wait for the

symbol to appear and double-click. By clicking the right mouse button, you can display a contextual menu in the zoomed mode without having to return to the normal display (Esc key).

Outputting numeric measured values

The list has four columns, namely the index number (Index) of the frequency point, the frequency (Frequency), the power ratio Pm/P

ref

or the voltage ratio Vm/V

ref

(Factor) and the measured value for the

power standard (Level). The values that are output are for the current measurement.

Usage of torque wrenches

All of the R&S®NRPC calibration kits include an appropriate torque wrench for the given connector type. The torque is set to ensure a dependable connection and also to prevent wear and tear. Experience has shown that trained personnel can obtain the same reproducibility that is possible with the torque wrench even without using this tool.

In the case of the newer thermal sensors in the R&S®NRP-Z5x series which are equipped with a very free-moving nut with ball bearing mounting, the torque wrench is definitely unnecessary. In fact, it can even be counterproductive due to the looseness of the nut since the connection is always tightened somewhat too tight.

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Troubleshooting measurement problems

Problem

Cause /  Solution

• The Start... button cannot be pressed

The power standard and/or DUT are not connected to the R&S®NRVD or R&S®NRX:

➢ Check the test setup as shown in Fig. 2-7 to Fig. 2-12

The R&S®NRVD, R&S®NRX and/or generator have not been initialized: ➢ Select the NRX and/or Generator tab and repeat the initialization

• The following error message appears at the

start of or during the measurements:

Error detected: Measurement out of tolerance ( 50%) Please check your test equipment

The level on the linearity standard and/or DUT is too high/low: ➢ You forgot to insert or remove the reference attenuator, or the power stand-

ard is not connected to the generator

➢ Check the test setup as shown in Fig. 2-7 to Fig. 2-11 ➢ Verify the calibration kit

• The measurement result spread for the cycles

is too large

The DUT, power standard or attenuator is defective: ➢ Verify the calibration kit

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Generating the Calibration Report

A calibration report documenting the calibration procedure can be generated at any time. It contains a cover sheet with general information, a list of the measuring equipment used, and a list of the measurement results. There are two versions of the calibration report:

The Calibration Report (Incoming) documents the incoming condition, and the Calibration Report describes the status after the data memory has been overwritten and the final control measurements have been performed. While the Calibration Report (Incoming) is merely a straightforward measurement report listing all measurement points, the Calibration Report additionally contains information about the stored calibration factors. Since only measurement points for which correction factors are stored are listed, the report should be generated only when the data memory is overwritten. Depending on the sensor type, proceed as follows (see Table 1-5 to Table 1-10):

DUTs without refreshing the data set

Only the Calibration Report (Incoming) is output since the data memory contents were not overwritten.

DUTs with refreshing of the data set:

The Calibration Report is always output on completion of the control measurements in order to provide proof of calibration. If the tolerance limits were exceeded on incoming inspection, the Calibration Report (Incoming) should also be output.

The calibration reports are generated as follows:

➢ Open the Calibration reports... dialog in the Calibration or File menu.

The Report Generation dialog box opens

➢ Mark the measurement channel to which the calibrated sensor is connected or select the EPROM file

for the sensor from the file list that is displayed (file name: ep(<sensor>)<serial no.>)

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➢ Select Calibration Report (Incoming) or Calibration Report

➢ For complete documentation, fill out the Report No. and Customer boxes

➢ Press the OK button: The calibration report, excluding the cover sheet and the list of measuring

equipment, is displayed on screen

➢ To view the complete calibration report on the screen, select the Print Preview... dialog in the File

➢ Print out the calibration report

If you wish to store electronic copies of calibration reports, install a printer driver for creating Acrobat PDF files. These drivers are available from various third-party suppliers.

Note regarding the Calibration Report (Incoming) for R&S®NRP and R&S®NRV-Z sensors:

As soon as the new EPROM file for the sensor has been calculated (described later in this chapter), the R&S®Recal+ software stores a backup copy of the incoming calibration and the data memory contents in the ...\recal\measure.dat\income and ...\recal\eprom.dat\income subdirectories. This allows the Cali- bration Report (Incoming) to be output at the very end of calibration. R&S®Recal+ accesses the saved files and will use the data from the ...\recal\measure.dat or ...\recal\eprom.dat directory for the Calibra- tion Report (Incoming) only if it does not find data for the sensor in the “income” subdirectories.

To avoid incorrect calibration reports when the entire procedure is repeated, all files with the serial number of the sensor must be deleted from the “income” subdirectories prior to the first measurement (see also the Archival section).

Suppressing the Rohde & Schwarz logo

The ROHDE & SCHWARZ logo in the upper right-hand corner of the calibration report can be suppressed as follows: Using a text editor, open the recal.ini file in the Windows directory, go to the

[LAB ID]

section and make the following entry:

NoLogo = TRUE

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Calculating a New EPROM File

Fig. 3-4 Calculation tab with measurement files present

The following section only applies to sensors whose data memories are to be overwritten. This involves

generating a new EPROM file from the measurement results and the sensor’s (old) EPROM data, which

can be loaded into the sensor via the R&S®NRVD or R&S®NRX or, in the case of sensors with UVerasable EPROM, by means of a suitable programming device (see following section). The calculation is performed as follows:

➢ Press the

button

➢ Select the Calculation tab

➢ Specify the source of the (old) EPROM file

➢ Either mark the measurement channel to which the sensor in question is connected, or select the

File List radio button and select the appropriate EPROM file ep(<sensor>)<serial no.> from the list

➢ If the EPROM file is selected via the measurement channel, a prompt to read in sensor data will ap-

pear in most cases. Press the Read sensor data button, wait for the end of the read operation and close the dialog box by pressing the Cancel button

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➢ If measurement data is available for the selected EPROM file, this is indicated in the Data set field

on the EPROM Data Calculation tab; the file names are listed in the Measurement files field

➢ Click the Create and save file button: The R&S®Recal+ software then calculates a new EPROM file

and saves it under the name ec(<sensor>)<serial no.>. When finished, the message ...is saved is output

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Overwriting the Data Memory of a Sensor with Flash EPROM

Any compatible file can be written to a sensor data memory. The file would normally be a new file named ec(<sensor>)<serial no.> that is generated from measurement data. However, after the data memory has been overwritten, it is also possible to restore the original contents from file eo(<sensor>)<serial no.>.

➢ Connect the sensor to channel A or channel B on the R&S®NRVD or R&S®NRX (if not already done)

➢ Press the

button (if not already done)

➢ Select the Program tab

➢ Depending on the button label (at right), various options are available for the measurement channel

in question:

➢ If the button label is Program EPROM:

A recalculated EPROM file ec... whose name contains the serial number of the sensor is available. To overwrite the data memory with this file, press the Program EPROM button and confirm the operation again.

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If a different file is to be used to overwrite the data memory, first delete file ec... whose name contains the serial number of the sensor from the ...\recal\eprom.dat directory (with the file manager or Explorer) and continue to the next step:

➢ If the button label is Browse:

No EPROM file ec... whose name contains the serial number of the sensor is available. Instead, any file can be selected from the ...\recal\eprom.dat directory by marking the file, pressing the Program EPROM button and then confirming the operation again

➢ If the button label is Read only: It is not possible to write data to the data memory via the

R&S®NRVD (UV-EPROM, see following section)

➢ After the flash EPROM has been erased and overwritten (this may take a few minutes depending on

the amount of correction data), press the Close button

Archiving

To prevent conflicts between old and new data, the files generated during calibration must be deleted from the ...\recal\eprom.dat and ...\recal\measure.dat working directories and the ...\income subdirectories at some point before the individual sensor is calibrated again.

R&S®Recal+ provides an archiving function allowing files to be copied to a new directory, deleted from the working directories and dearchived.

Copying Files to Archive

➢ Using Windows Explorer or the file manager, create an archive directory, e.g. ...\recal\archive

➢ Launch R&S®Recal+ and select the Archive... dialog in the File menu

➢ The Archiving/Cleaning of NRPC Working Directories dialog box is opened

➢ In the Select via Serial No. panel, select the sensor to be archived

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➢ All files available in the working directories are displayed

➢ Select the archive directory via the Archive directory button

➢ Press the Copy button

➢ R&S®Recal+ copies all files to the archive directory. Subdirectories ...\eprom.dat, ...\measure.dat

and ...\income are created automatically

➢ Press the Delete button to delete the files from the working directories

Note: If only some of the files are to be copied or deleted, first select them with a mouse click.

Fetching Files from Archive

This procedure is identical to that for archiving except that the source and target have to be interchanged via the Src<->Dest button. The archive directory should then be displayed under Delete from (Src) [...] and the working directory under Copy to (Dest) [...]. You can switch back to archiving by pressing the

Src <-> Dest button again.

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4 Verification

In order to prevent faulty calibration of sensors, it is necessary to check the measurement accuracy of the power standards using the verification set (option B1). Like a normal calibration of absolute accuracy, verification with the verification set is a quick and easy process that should be performed on a regular basis (prior to usage or daily).

Verification of the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Built-In Self-Test of the Power Standard

The R&S®NRPC power standards are equipped with an internal reference circuit for checking the longterm stability of the integrated power sensor. The reference circuit includes a highly stable DC voltage source which can be used to supply a second heater on the transducer. The reference circuit is activated whenever a built-in self-test is performed and an in-circuit test is executed. Proceed as follows to perform the self-test:

➢ Press the button in the toolbar and open the NRP Sensor Test tab

➢ Select the power standard and perform the built-in self-test by pressing the Execute Test button

The test results consist of a global “SUCCESSFUL / FAILED” assessment along with individual test results. The result of the in-circuit test is displayed under the Test Heater Power Drift item. Along with a “SUCCESSFUL / FAILED” assessment, the percent is indicated by which the sensitivity of the test cell has changed compared to the last calibration by German Accreditation Body (DKD) laboratory D-K15195-01-01.

The R&S®NRPC-B1 verification kit should also be subjected to a built-in self-test in the same manner. Here too, the change in the measured sensitivity compared to the last calibration by the German Accreditation Body laboratory mentioned above is displayed under the Test Heater Power Drift item.

In-circuit testing of the power standard can be triggered as part of a user-initiated self-test and is also executed automatically by the R&S®Recal+ software prior to each calibration of absolute accuracy.

Comparison Measurements with the R&S®NRPC-B1 Verification Set

For each R&S®NRPC calibration kit, an R&S®NRPC-B1 verification kit can also be ordered as an option. It consists of a thermal sensor with an input impedance of 100 Ω. These R&S®NRPC18-B1, R&S®NRPC33-B1, R&S®NRPC40-B1, R&S®NRPC50-B1 and R&S®NRPC67-B1 thermal sensors have been adjusted on the associated power standard and exhibit only very minor errors compared to it. Therefore, large errors indicate that there has probably been some change in the components involved. Due to the strong mismatch of the verification sensor, it is possible to detect aging or wear and tear at an early stage in terms of the power measurement accuracy as well as the matching. Usage is very simple:

➢ Verify that the calibration kit matches the verification kit by comparing the serial numbers of the

power standard with the data on the bottom of the verification sensor

➢ Prepare the measurement setup for checking the absolute accuracy as shown in Fig. 2-7 for the

R&S®NRPC33, Fig. 2-9 for the R&S®NRPC33, Fig. 2-10 for the R&S®NRPC40 , Fig. 2-11 for the R&S®NRPC50, and Fig. 2-12 for the R&S®NRPC67.

➢ Check the absolute accuracy with the associated verification kit

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Perform one or more measurement cycles (depending on requirement); otherwise proceed as described under Checking the Absolute Accuracy. The averaged trace must lie within the tolerance band shown in the graphical display. The tolerance limits are significantly tighter compared to a normal thermal sensor. If the trace rises or falls uniformly over all of the frequency range, this indicates a change in the sensitivity of the power standard or the verification sensor . An oscillating frequency response as seen in Fig. 4-1 indicates that the matching conditions on the RF connection have changed. In this case, a visual inspection is necessary and the connectors should be cleaned. If the ripple does not disappear despite cleaning the connectors of the verification sensor and the power standard, the RF connector for the power standard can be exchanged with the supplied replacement adapter . For a description of the steps required to do this, see the appendix under Exchanging the RF Connector at the Test Port of the Power Stand- ard.

Fig. 4-1 Verification result for an R&S®NRPC40 power standard following damage to the RF con-

nectors

The reference attenuators in the R&S®NRPC18, R&S®NRPC33 and R&S®NRPC40 are not checked.

Note: The verification measurement with the R&S®NRPC-B1 is saved as an FR file with a time

stamp in the Verification.dat folder.

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5 Recalibration

It is recommended to return the R&S®NRPC (R&S®NRVC) and the options to Rohde & Schwarz for recalibration once a year. As part of recalibration, all components are checked, and the reference standards, the reference attenuators and the precision termination are recalibrated. The sensors from the verification set are adjusted to match the recalibrated standards and the data memories are updated.

If you need a recalibration done, contact your nearest Rohde & Schwarz representative. Please send in the complete calibration kit packed in its storage cases.

Procedures to be Performed after Recalibration

When you receive the calibrated kit, perform the following procedures to ensure that it is functioning correctly:

• Perform a software update (if mentioned in the accompanying letter). The update is like an initial in-

stallation, but all directories, measurement files, EPROM files and user-specific information in the re-

cal.ini file are retained. Before launching the setup program, uninstall the current version (use the Uninstall program from the R&S Recal+ program group)

R&S®NRPC calibration kit

• Connect the R&S®NRPC power standard to one channel of the R&S®NRX

• Launch the R&S®Recal+ calibration software

• Initialize the R&S®NRX

• Perform the verification as described under Verification of the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

R&S®NRVC calibration kit

• Copy the contents of the  CALIBRATION DATA data disk into directory ...\recal\config.dat (if not

already done during a previous software update)

• Connect the R&S®NRVC power standard to a channel of the R&S®NRVD

• Launch the calibration software

• Initialize the R&S®NRVD, power standard, linearity standard, reference attenuator and precision ter-

mination (see instructions at beginning of Sensor Calibration section)

• Perform the verification as described under Verification of the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit. If you

choose not to perform verification, set the correction factors K_NRVC..., K_ATT... and K_Z51... in the

recal32.ini file to 1.0 or delete these entries

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6 Appendix

Exchanging the RF Connector on the Test Port of the Power Standard

In the R&S®NRPC33, R&S®NRPC40 and NPRC50 power standards, there is an adapter between the test port and the output of the integrated power splitter which can be exchanged by the user if the test port's RF connector becomes worn out. A replacement adapter is supplied for this purpose with each of the calibration kits mentioned here. To ensure the accuracy level is retained even after the adapter is exchanged, each power standard is calibrated with both adapters during manufacture and recalibration at German Accreditation Body (DKD) laboratory D-K-15195-01-01. The calibration certificate contains the calibration data for both configurations.

The adapter should be exchanged if the test port is obviously damaged as well as in the following cases:

• Verification with the R&S®NRPC-B1 verification sensor fails due to strong oscillations in the fre-

quency response

• High dependence on the angular position during calibration of absolute accuracy

The following table describes the procedure used to exchange the adapter along with the subsequent steps that are required:

Table 6-1 Exchanging the RF connector on the test port

Item no.

Work step

Comments

Remove the anti-turn device for the adapter's hex nut (this involves loosening two grub screws)

Allen wrench (wrench opening 0.9 mm) 2

Unscrew the adapter

Flat wrench (wrench opening 8 mm)

Screw on the replacement adapter , tighten the hex nut with a torque of 1.5 Nm

Torque flat wrench (wrench opening 8 mm) with a torque of 1.5 Nm

Slide on the anti-turn device and tighten the grub screws

Install the R&S®NRP-Toolkit software

On CD-ROM

Connect the power standard to the USB port of a Windows computer

Requires USB adapter R&S®NRP-Z3 or R&S®NRP-Z4 or sensor hub R&S®NRP-Z5

Load the power standard's calibration data set for the replacement adapter

With program module S-Parameter Update Multi from R&S®NRP-Toolkit

Connect verification sensor to USB port of a Windows computer

Load the calibration data set for the verification sensor for use on a power standard with the replacement adapter

With program module S-Parameter Update Multi from R&S®NRP-Toolkit

Connect power standard and verification sensor to R&S®NRX base unit

Check identification of the loaded calibration data sets

Verification measurement

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Re 3: The torque of the supplied torque wrench (0.9 Nm) is too small to prevent the adapter from turning

during subsequent usage. If a suitable torque wrench is not available, tighten the adapter somewhat tighter by feel and then check whether the adapter turns when the sensor is screwed on and off.

Re 7: The calibration data for the power standard must also be exchanged when the adapter is ex-

changed. The data set called Caldata_NRPC_T<serial no.>.bin is located on the data CD in the Dataset/Exchange_Thru directory. The serial number at the end of the file name refers to the spare adapter. This number is also engraved on the adapter.

Fig. 6-1 shows the user interface for the S-Parameter Update Multi program module of the

R&S®NRP-Toolkit. After clicking the File button, select “Load Calibration Data” for the power standard in the above-named directory.

After loading the Calibration Data, the Calibration Data shall download to the sensor. Therefore,

select the Sensor button. It is important to check the box: “Always Use Factory Data Set”.

Fig. 6-2 shows the user interface for downloading the Calibration Data.

Fig. 6-1 User interface for S-Parameter Update Multi from the NRP-Toolkit

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Fig. 6-2 Download the new Calibration Data to the sensor. Check Box: “Always Use Factory

Data Set” is on.

Re 9: The calibration data set for the verification sensor must also be exchanged in order to obtain

correct verification results from the start. The calibration data set is called Caldata_NRPC- B1_T<serial no.>.bin and is also located on the data CD in the Dataset/Exchange_Thru directory. As before, the serial number at the end of the file name refers to the spare adapter.

Re 11: After successfully loading the calibration data sets, the serial number of the spare adapter should

appear in info texts in the R&S®NRX base unit (in the System menu under Sensor Info: SPD Mnemonic).

For the power standard, the letter T should be followed by the serial number engraved on the

spare adapter, e.g. 12387 in the entry T12387. An additional code A#### stands for the supplied reference attenuator in the case of the R&S®NRPC33 and R&S®NRPC40 calibration kits.

Re 12: The measured values must lie well within the specified tolerance bands. If this is not the case,

check whether the correct calibration data sets were actually loaded. Otherwise, unscrew the adapter and try remounting it in a different angular position.

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Measurements on a Separate Measurement Setup

All of the measurements (reflection, absolute accuracy and linearity) can also be performed on separate measurement setups. The measurement results must then be transferred in the form of standard ASCII files to R&S®Recal+ for further processing. The required measurement frequencies and levels for each type of sensor are stored in a configuration file.

The configuration files are stored in the ...recal\config.dat directory and can be read with any standard text editor. The file name consists of the type designation of the sensor and the three-digit model code (padded on left with zeros). For example, for an R&S®NRV-Z1 sensor with material number 0828.3018.03 (5 m connecting cable), the file name is nrv-z1.003.

The measurement results are to be stored in the ...recal\measure.dat directory in an ASCII file whose name consists of a header (rf: reflection; ln: linearity; fr: absolute accuracy; sp: S-parameter for attenuators) and the serial number of the sensor. The structure of these files is shown in Table 6-4 to Table 6-10: All mandatory entries are in bold, and all user-specific entries in normal font. The column on the right explains the various entries (i.e. these explanations are not included in the files).

Reflection

There are the following possibilities for the reflection measurement:

• Program-controlled measurement and transfer of the measurement data using the

R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program belonging to the R&S®Recal+ software in conjunction with selected network analyzers from Rohde & Schwarz

• Manual or program-controlled measurement with any other suitable network analyzer and further

processing of the measurement data based on one of the two following possibilities:

o Creation of one file each with the reflection and measurement uncertainty data in Touchstone

format and subsequent import of these files using R&S®Recal+

o Manual creation of a single file with reflection and measurement uncertainty data in a format

compatible with R&S®Recal+ and storage of this file in the …\Recal+\measure.dat directory

Program-Controlled Reflection Measurement with R&S®ZVX_RECAL

After the program is successfully installed, the Measurement with NRVC/NRPC dialog (after pressing the button) should have the Reflection / S Parameter tab (Fig. 6-3). From there, the network analyzer

and DUT are selected and the test program is launched.

Table 6-2 contains a list of the individual steps in a reflection measurement. Further details of the individual steps are discussed below.

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Fig. 6-3 Reflection / S Parameter tab

Table 6-2 Reflection measurement

Item no.

Work step

Location

Comments

Read in calibration kit

Connect network analyzer to test system via IEC/IEEE bus

Network analyzer

Launch R&S®Recal+ software

Initialize vector network analyzer

Dialog

Reflection / S Parameter

Select sensor

Channel A or channel B on basic power meter

Launch R&S®ZVX_RECAL software

Button Run Network Analyzer Program for selected sensor

Calibrate vector network analyzer

Dialog ZVX_RECAL

The network analyzer's calibration is stored for subsequent reuse

Measure DUT's reflection

It is recommended to check the sensor's immunity from mounting the connector in a different angular position by connecting it multiple times

Return to R&S®Recal+

Button

Quit

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Re 1: Prior to starting the measurements, the data for the selected calibration kit(s) should already

be saved in the network analyzer

Re 4: - Select the type of network analyzer that is connected

- Use the Search Analyzer dialog to search for the GPIB address of the connected instrument. If the GPIB address is known, it can be entered into the Address field and the search skipped

- Initialize the network analyzer

Re 6: - The R&S®ZVX_RECAL software starts up in its own window

Fig. 6-4 R&S®ZVX_RECAL user interface immediately after start-up

Re 7: - In the Calibration drop-down list, select the New: One Port OSM entry. A window like the

one shown Fig. 6-5 will open

- Select an appropriate calibration kit in the active Cal Kit list. The list only shows the calibration kits that are suitable for the DUT's connector

- Initiate the calibration by pressing the Start button. A window like the one in Fig. 6-6 will appear with a prompt to connect the first calibration standard

- Connect the requested calibration standard (check the serial number!) to the network analyzer and click the Continue button

- Proceed in the same manner for the other calibration standards

- Confirm the Calibration complete message with OK. The R&S®ZVX_RECAL user interface will reappear in the foreground (Fig. 6-7)

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Fig. 6-5 Window for selection of the calibration kit

Fig. 6-6 Prompt to connect the first calibration standard

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Re 8: - Select the number of measurements in the Number of Measurements field

- Press the Start Measurement button

- Connect the DUT to the network analyzer and confirm the procedure (Fig. 6-8)

- The measurement should begin. After it is completed, the measurement result is displayed graphically (Fig. 6-9)

- Press the Continue button. Depending on the number of set measurements, there is either another prompt to connect the DUT (in another angular position) or the R&S®ZVX_RECAL user interface will appear with the Measurement complete! message (Fig. 6-10)

- Press the Save button. An average measurement result is formed from the individual measurements and saved as a file named

rf (<type designation>) <serial no.>

in the …\recal+\measure.dat directory

Re 9: - Return to the R&S®Recal+ user interface by pressing the Quit button

Fig. 6-7 User interface for calibrated network analyzer

Fig. 6-8 Prompt to connect the DUT

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Fig. 6-9 Graphical display of the reflection measurement results

Fig. 6-10 User interface after completed reflection measurement

Information about reflection measurements with R&S®ZVX_RECAL

Frequency range and number of frequencies

Both parameters are set solely as a function of the connector type. This means that sensors with identical connectors are adjusted at the same frequencies. This has a significant benefit in that only a single calibration is required per connector type. The measurement points that are not necessary for the sensor between its upper frequency limit and the maximum frequency of the respective connector type are

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automatically discarded during subsequent evaluation of the measurement data. A standard value of 10 MHz is used as the lower frequency limit.

Validity of the calibration

The network analyzer's calibration is stored with the date. If multiple DUTs with the same connector type are adjusted in sequence, the network analyzer's calibration can be reused. The user only needs to ensure that the system data (directivity, reflection tracking and source match of the network analyzer) have not changed significantly. Changes generally occur due to drift of the network analyzer vs. time or changes on the network analyzer's test port. In case of any doubt, perform a new calibration using New: One Port OSM (User) .

Measurement uncertainty

Reflection measurements on power sensors are influenced primarily by the accuracy of the calibration kit and the stability of the network analyzer, and only then by the reflection of the actual sensor. The measurement uncertainty can be generalized as follows:



+= baU

The term a is independent of the measurement result and is primarily a function of the effective directivity. On the other hand, the term b considers the effective reflection tracking and the effective source match. Since power sensors generally exhibit very good matching, the influence of b tends to be small.

When computing the measurement uncertainties, the R&S®ZVX_RECAL program module makes use of the values listed in Table 6-3 for the term a. They are valid when using the recommended calibration kits (Table 2-15). For b, a conservative estimate of 0.04 is used in all cases.

Table 6-3 Expanded measurement uncertainties (k = 2) for a well matched DUT (term a)

Frequency range

N (50 Ohm)

3.5 mm

2.92 mm

2.4 mm

1.85 mm

DC to 0.1 GHz

0.005

> 0.1 to 2.4 GHz

0.005

> 2.4 to 8.0 GHz

0.005

0.007

> 8.0 to 12.4 GHz

0.005

0.009

> 12.4 to 18.0 GHz

0.006

0.009

0.010

> 18.0 to 26.5 GHz

---

0.011

0.014

> 26.5 to 33.0 GHz

---

0.011

0.015

> 33.0 to 40.0 GHz

---

0.011

0.015

> 40.0 to 50.0 GHz

---

0.017

> 50.0 to 67.0 GHz

---

0.020

At low frequencies, vector network analyzers tend to exhibit a large, system-related statistical uncertainty. To reduce this uncertainty, R&S®ZVX_RECAL sets the bandwidth of the network analyzer accordingly. In addition, the measurement result for the 10 MHz frequency point is determined based on measurement results for multiple frequency points in the immediate vicinity of 10 MHz. Both steps help to considerably reduce stochastic error influences.

Storage of the measurement result

The measured reflection coefficients are stored along with the measurement uncertainties as well as general information in the ...\recal\measure.dat directory. The file contains only the frequency points that are relevant for the applicable sensor. The file name is structured as follows:

rf (<type>) <serial no.>

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For a sensor of type R&S®NRV-Z15 with serial number 102972, it would be as follows:

rf(NRP-Z21)102972

Additional information about reflection measurements of NRP18A(N) with R&S®ZVX_RECAL

Reflection measurements of sensors R&S®NRP18A(N) with a frequency start from 8 kHz up to 18 GHz is currently possible only using two network analyzers. First network analyzer covers the frequency range from 8 (9) kHz to 100 MHz, the second from 100 MHz up to 18 GHz. R&S®ZVX_RECAL allows to

measure the reflection using two vector network analyzers alternating in any order.

Depending of measurements performed the R&S®ZVX_RECAL user interface will appear with Measure- ment of a frequency subrange complete (Fig. 6-11) or the Measurement complete message (Fig.

6-10)

Fig. 6-11 User interface after reflection measurement of a frequency subrange

Reflection measurement without using R&S®ZVX_RECAL

If the network analyzer used for the reflection measurement is not supported by the R&S®Recal+ software (supported network analyzers are listed in Table 2-12 and Table 2-13), the user is responsible for ensuring that the measurement is properly configured and the measurement data is stored in a format that is compatible with the R&S®Recal+ software.

Configuration of the Network Analyzer

All of the necessary information is saved in the configuration file for the sensor to be calibrated. The configuration files are stored in the …\recal+\config32.dat directory and the file name contains the type designation and variant identifier of the sensor. They are created in ASCII format and can be read using any standard editor. Fig. 6-12 shows parts of the configuration file for the R&S®NRV-Z15 CW power sensor which is representative of all of the sensors with only a single measurement path in this context.

Measurement level for calibration of absolute accuracy ➔

Measurement frequencies for calibration ➔ of absolute accuracy and matching

freqLevel= 1.0E-6 ... frequencyresponse= 50E6 , 1.0

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Specified reflection coefficients ➔

50 MHz to 4 GHz  0.07 > 4 GHz to 40 GHz  0.157

100E6 , 1.0 500E6 , 1.0 ... ... 40E9 , 1.0 DataBlockEnd ... reflectionCoefficients= 50E6 ,0.070

4.05E9 ,0.157 DataBlockEnd ...

Fig. 6-12 Excerpt from configuration file nrv-z15.002 for R&S®NRV-Z15 sensor type with variant

identifier 02

The exact measurement level in the reflection measurement is not critical in the case of a thermal sensor or if the measurement data is not used for gamma correction of the calibration of absolute accuracy. Otherwise, it should be as large as the value used for calibration of absolute accuracy. This value is saved in the configuration file under the “freqLevel” entry and has the unit of W for a power sensor. In case of values under 10 µW (-20 dBm), the reflection measurement may be performed with no problem at a measurement level of -20 dBm since reflection changes hardly occur in case of further level reduction. The measurement time is selected such that the measurement uncertainties resulting from the measurement noise remain small with respect to the error influences which are due to the network analyzer's calibration. The values in Table 6-3 can be used as a starting point for the total measurement uncertainty.

In the case of multi-path sensors, multiple level specifications are present, depending on the number of paths, under the “freqNpathLevel” entry. Here, use the second entry which is generally identical for two-path sensors with the measurement power for the first path and for three-path sensors with the measurement power for the third path.

The measurement frequencies are listed under the “frequencyresponse” entry. The values specified there apply for calibration of absolute accuracy as well as for the reflection measurement, and measured values must be available for these frequencies. In order to be able to define simply structured sweeps, it might be necessary to make measurements at other frequencies besides the listed ones. The R&S®Recal+ software is configured for this and will accept such additional frequency points (but only for the reflection measurement).

The measurement data is best saved as a Touchstone file in the *.s1p format for easy further processing (see next section).

The configuration files for the sensors also include the limits specified in the data sheet for the magnitude of the linear reflection coefficient. These specifications are listed in the table under the “reflectionCo- efficients” entry. The left column contains in each case the frequency starting at which the limit spec- ified in the right column is valid. The value in the last row is logically valid up to the sensor's upper frequency limit. With the R&S®URV5-Z2 and R&S®URV5-Z4 voltage sensors, the reflection is measured at the male connector end; the female connector must be terminated with the precision termination .

Formatting and Saving the Reflection Measured Values

In order for the network analyzer's measurement data to be evaluated by the R&S®Recal+ software, the data must be saved in the form of an “RF file” in the …\recal+\measure.dat directory. Here, there are two possibilities:

o Creation of one ASCII file each with the reflection and measurement uncertainty data in Touchstone

format and subsequent import of these files using the R&S®Recal+ software

o Manual creation of a single ASCII file with reflection and measurement uncertainty data in a format

compatible with R&S®Recal+ and storage of this file in the …\recal+\measure.dat directory

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Importing reflection and measurement uncertainty files

This is generally the simpler of the two possibilities since most network analyzers are capable of automatically generating measurement data in Touchstone format. Then, the user only needs to create the measurement uncertainty file with its very simple format and perform the data import. The import procedure requires prior installation of the R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program (see start of chapter3).

Details on the content and format of the two files can be found further below. The individual work steps needed to import the data are as follows:

➢ Save the network analyzer's measurement data on a storage medium that the R&S®Recal+ software

can access

➢ Create the measurement uncertainty file and save it on a storage medium that the R&S®Recal+

software can access

➢ Launch the R&S®Recal+ software and call up the Measurement with NRVC/NRPC dialog using the

button in the toolbar

➢ Select the Reflection / S Parameter tab

➢ Select the sensor that the reflection data is associated with. If this sensor is connected to an initialized

base unit, click the corresponding radio button. Otherwise, click the “File” radio button and select the sensor from the list that appears. Of course, the second possibility assumes that the sensor has been plugged in at least once and its data was read out

➢ Select the file with the network analyzer's measurement data. To do this, click the Browse button in

the S1P Data File (Reflection) field

➢ Select the measurement uncertainty file. To do this, click the Browse button in the Uncertainty Data

File field

➢ Click the Import Reflection Data button. Now, R&S®Recal+ automatically generates a file in the

“RF” format based on the two starting files and saves it in the …\recal+\measure.dat directory. The file name consists of the sensor's type designation, its variant identifier and the serial num ber

Structure of a file to import the network analyzer's measurement data

The reflection coefficients measured at the individual frequencies must be saved with the real and imaginary parts in the Touchstone format (*.s1p) (Fig. 6-13). A period must be used as a decimal separator. The header indicated with # must contain all of the information needed to interpret the data, i.e. the frequency unit (HZ|KHZ|MHZ|GHZ), identification of S-parameter data (S), data format real/imaginary (RI) and reference impedance of 50  (R 50). Comments can be inserted directly after the header following an exclamation point (!). Except for the mandatory file extension “s1p”, any desired file name can be used.

# HZ S RI R 50 ! Rohde & Schwarz ZVA/B ! ! Frequency Real part Imaginary part

1.00000E+07 1.57630E-03 -2.22580E-03

5.00000E+07 1.37430E-03 -4.56010E-04

1.00000E+08 8.08320E-04 -1.36200E-04

3.00000E+08 1.45920E-04 -2.67880E-04

…. ….

Fig. 6-13 ASCII file with reflection data in Touchstone format *.s1p

Important: Reflection coefficients must always be saved with the real

and imaginary parts. Other formats are not supported.

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Structure of a file with the uncertainties of the reflection measurement

The expanded linear uncertainties with k = 2 are to be saved as a function of the frequency. A period must be used as a decimal separator. The left column contains in each case the frequency starting at which the measurement uncertainty specified in the right column is valid. The value in the last row is logically valid up to the sensor's upper frequency limit. In most cases, only a few entries are needed, and the measurement uncertainty file can be applied universally. The header indicated with # only needs to contain the frequency unit used in the table (HZ|KHZ|MHZ|GHZ) and the identifier for the measurement uncertainty file (U). Comments can be inserted directly after the header following an exclamation point (!). Any desired file name can be selected.

# HZ U ! ! Frequency Uncertainty (k=2)

1.00E+07 0.005

2.41E+09 0.007

8.01E+09 0.009

12.41E+09 0.010

Fig. 6-14 ASCII file with measurement uncertainties

Creating, editing and saving a file in “RF” format

Measurement files in “RF” format contain all of the information needed for matching of a sensor. Besides the measurement data and measurement uncertainties, they also contain information about the sensor and calibration. Table 6-4, Table 6-5 and Table 6-6 show examples of the format and content of these files. The three examples differ in terms of how the reflection measured values are presented. The preferred format with all of the necessary information is shown in Table 6-5. If the measurement data is available only in scalar form and can thus be used only for reporting and for computing the mismatch uncertainty in the calibration of absolute accuracy, use the format in Table 6-6. A file like the one in Table 6-4 has the same information content as one in the preferred format, but it also includes the magnitudes of the reflection coefficients.

Files in the “RF” format must be saved in the …\recal\measure.dat directory. The file name must contain the type of the sensor and its serial number in the following format:

rf (<type>) <serial no.>

For a sensor of type R&S®NRV-Z15 with serial number 102972, the file name would be as follows:

rf(NRP-Z21)102972

It is sometimes helpful to edit an “RF” file created by R&S®Recal+ (after importing the Touchstone and measurement uncertainty file) in order to enter information that is not contained in the original files. This includes information about the measuring instruments that were used, the name of the technician and data on the temperature and humidity (see Table 6-4 to Table 6-6).

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Table 6-4 Measurement file rf(NRP-Z21)102972 for checking reflection (NRP sensors, vari-

ant 1)

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = REFLECTION_DATA

Designation as reflection data

DeviceList = "VNA, HP, 8510, 8430F9241, 199710A4435, 1998-05" "..."

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component:

"<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>"

The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "102972"

Serial number

StockNo = "1081.2305.02"

Material number

SensorType = "NRP-Z11"

Type designation

Date = "2004-05-12"

Calibration date (12 May 2004)

DataPoints = 45

Number of frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 5

Number of values per measurement point

Value =

Assignment of calibration values

// Reflection coefficient of DUT

Comment line

// f/Hz | Magnitude | Uncert. | Real part | Imaginary part

Comment line

5.000E+7 0.8783E-1 0.40E-2 0.7350E-1 0.4808E-2

1.000E+8 0.2650E-1 0.40E-2 0.1584E-2 0.2645E-1

5.000E+8 0.9632E-2 0.40E-2 0.2937E-2 0.9173E-2

......

8.000E+9 0.32506E-1 1.20E-2 0.1742E-2 0.3245E-1

DataBlockEnd

List of values, with columns separated by at least one space.

The list must be terminated with

DataBlockEnd.

Reflection coefficient: ab-

solute value of the reflection coefficient

Uncertainty: expanded measurement uncertainty (k=2) for the reflection coefficients

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Table 6-5 Measurement file rf(NRP-Z21)102972 for checking reflection (NRP sensors, vari-

ant 2)

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = REFLECTION_DATA

Designation as reflection data

DeviceList = "VNA, HP, 8510, 8430F9241, 199710A4435, 1998-05" "..."

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component:

"<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>"

The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "102972"

Serial number

StockNo = "1081.2305.02"

Material number

SensorType = "NRP-Z21"

Type designation

Date = "2004-05-12"

Calibration date (12 May 2004)

DataPoints = 45

Number of frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 4

Number of values per measurement point

Value =

Assignment of calibration values

// Reflection coefficient of DUT

Comment line

//f/Hz | Real part | Imaginary part | Uncertainty

Comment line

5.000E+7 0.7350E-1 0.4808E-2 0.40E-2

1.000E+8 0.1584E-2 0.2645E-1 0.40E-2

5.000E+8 0.2937E-2 0.9173E-2 0.40E-2

......

4.000E+10 0.1742E-2 0.3245E-1 1.20E-2

DataBlockEnd

List of values, with columns separated by at least one space.

The list must be terminated with

DataBlockEnd.

Uncertainty: expanded measure-

ment uncertainty (k=2) for the reflection coefficients

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Table 6-6 Measurement file rf(NRV-Z15)843275.034 for checking reflection (R&S®NRV and

R&S®URV5 sensors)

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = REFLECTION_DATA

Designation as reflection data

DeviceList = "VNA, HP, 8510, 8430F9241, 199710A4435, 1998-05" "..."

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component:

"<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>"

The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "843275/034"

Serial number

StockNo = "1081.2305.02"

Material number

SensorType = "NRV-Z15"

Type designation

Date = "2004-05-12"

Calibration date (12 May 2004)

DataPoints = 45

Number of frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 3

Number of values per measurement point

Value =

Assignment of calibration values

// Reflection coefficient of DUT

Comment line

//f/Hz | Magnitude | Uncertainty

Comment line

5.000E+7 0.8783E-2 0.40E-2

1.000E+8 0.8820E-2 0.40E-2

5.000E+8 0.9124E-2 0.40E-2

......

4.000E+10 8.7455E-2 1.20E-2

DataBlockEnd

List of values, with columns separated by at least one space.

The list must be terminated with

DataBlockEnd.

Uncertainty: expanded measure-

ment uncertainty (k=2) for the reflection coefficients

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S-parameter file for sensors with attenuators

The R&S®NRP18S-10/-20/-25 and R&S®NRP-Z22/-Z23/-Z24/-Z92 power sensors each contain two calibration data sets in the sensor's data memory. The first data set characterizes the power sensor and the second the attenuator in the form of all four S-parameters. The data for the attenuator can also be refreshed by providing R&S®Recal+ with a file with current measurement data.

Table 6-7 gives an example of the structure of a file of this type in “RF” format for a power sensor of type R&S®NRP-Z22. Besides general information, this file contains a complete set of complex S-parameters for the attenuator. The S-parameters must be provided exclusively in linear notation, and for the measurement uncertainties a distinction is made between the reflection and transmission parameters. For the reflection coefficients

and

, the absolute uncertainties are necessary, while for the transmission

coefficients

and

the relative uncertainties (in dB) are necessary. The uncertainties must be ex-

panded by the factor k = 2 and refer in each case to the magnitudes.

The measurement frequencies in the calibration data set for an attenuator are generally more tightly spaced than the calibration frequencies of the power sensor. This is due in particular to the fact that the complex reflection coefficients of the power attenuators change faster vs. frequency than the reflection coefficients at the input of the power sensors, which is related to the longer line lengths inside the attenuators. If the spacing between the frequency points is too large, significant errors will arise in gamma correction between the power sensor and attenuator. In general, a frequency spacing of 50 MHz is adequate. It is best to select the frequency points in the existing calibration data set which can be read out with the Create NRP View file dialog and saved as an ASCII file in the …\recal+\config32.dat directory. The parameters for the attenuator can be found under the S-Parameter Calibration Data entry.

The R&S®ZVX_RECAL additional program does not support calibration of the attenuators since the possibility of significant measurement errors is much greater compared to power calibration. Accordingly, only experienced personnel should be allowed to perform calibration of attenuators using suitable measurement setups.

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Table 6-7 Measurement data file SP(NRP-Z22.002)100042 for the S-parameters for the attenuator of an R&S®NRP-Z22 sensor

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = S_PARA_DATA

S-parameter measurement data

DeviceList = //<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>“

"VNA, HP, 8510, 8430F9241, 199710A4435, 1998-05" ""

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component. The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "654321"

Component serial number

StockNo = "1234.5678.90"

Material number of component

ComponentType = "Weinschel 10 dB attenuator"

Component type designation

Date = "2001-10-21"

Calibration date

CalibrationLab = "R & S Messgerätebau Memmingen"

Calibration location

Family = ALL

Not a member of any specific sensor family

DataPoints = 360

Number of measurement frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 13

Number of columns per frequency point

ComplexData = TRUE

Indicates that the measurement values are real and imaginary components of a complex value

Value =

//f/Hz re_s11 im_s11 unc_s11 re_s12 im_s12 unc_s12 re_s21 im_s21 unc_s21 re_s22 im_s22 unc_s22

5.0E7 0.88E-2 0.40E-2 0.005 3.161E-1 0.240E-4 0.04 3.180E-1 0.861E-4 0.04 0.12E-1 0.11E-3 0.005

…… ……

18.0E9 0.88E-1 0.22E-1 0.010 0.111E-2 2.462E-1 0.07 0.263E-2 2.501E-1 0.07 0.72E-1 0.41E-1 0.010

DataBlockEnd

Assignment of calibration values Comment line (no line break!)

List of values, one line per measurement frequency, with columns separated by at least one space. The list must be terminated with Data- BlockEnd.

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Linearity

Calibration of the linearity can be performed on a separate power calibration measurement setup.

The measurement results are transferred to the calibration software in an ASCII file in accordance with Table 6-8. In addition to general information, this file contains the measured power value pairs for the standard and the DUT at each frequency point with the expanded (k=2) measurement uncertainty U

lin

dB as the third quantity.

The measurement levels can be obtained from the DUT configuration file:

DUT filter setting ➔

Power steps (±0.5 dB) ➔

Power (±0.5 dB) at the reference point ➔

... linFilter = 7 ... linLevel =

1.00E-006

1.58E-006 ... ...

2.51E-2 DataBlockEnd ... freqLevel = 1.0E-6 ...

Fig. 6-15 Extract from configuration file nrv-z15.002 (linearity)

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Table 6-8 Measurement file ln(NRP-Z11.002)900123 for checking the linearity

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = LIN_RESPONSE

Designation as linearity data

Family = NRP

NRP (also valid for R&S®FSH) or NRV (also valid for R&S®URV5)

DeviceList =

"Power Sensor, R&S, NRV-Z1, 856345/011, 199A5, 1998-05" "Power Meter, R&S, NRVD, 845123/018, 567B221, 1999-10" "..."

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component:

"<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>;"

The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "900123"

Serial number

StockNo = "1138.3004.02"

Material number

SensorType = "NRP-Z11"

Type designation

CalibrationLab = "SE2 Service Dept"

Name of Calibration Lab

Date = "2004-05-12"

Calibration date (12 May 2004)

RefValue = 1.0024

DUT

/ P

ref

for the reference point

RefUnit = -1

Reference value code

Test Frequency = 500.0E6

Measurement frequency

DataPoints = 24

Number of frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 3

Number of values per measurement point

ValueUnit = W

Unit of Value, V for sensors which are marked as VoltageSensor in the config file

Value =

Assignment of calibration values

// P_ref/W P_DUT/W uncertainty U_lin/dB

Comment line

9.95123E-7 9.9751E-7 2.50E-2

1.57230E-6 1.5761E-6 2.50E-2

......

2.46220E-2 2.4631E-2 2.50E-2

DataBlockEnd

List of values, columns separated by at least one space.

Uncertainty U_lin/dB: expanded measurement uncertainty (k=2) in dB for power ratio measurements

The list must be terminated with

DataBlockEnd.

SubstrateTemperature = 0.300000000E+3

Only NRP and FSH, fixed value.

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Absolute Accuracy

Calibration of the absolute accuracy can also be performed on a separate power calibration measurement setup.

The measurement results are transferred to the calibration software in an ASCII file in accordance with Table 6-9 (R&S®NRV or R&S®URV5 sensors) or Table 6-10 (R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH sensors). In addition to general information, this file contains the measured power value pairs for the standard and the DUT at each frequency point. The measurement frequencies and the calibration power levels can be obtained from the DUT configuration file:

Reference frequency index ➔ Measurement frequencies ➔

Meas. power (±1.0 dB) ➔ Filter setting ➔

...

FRQREF = 2 frequencyresponse=

50E6 , 1.0 100E6 , 1.0 500E6 , 1.0 ... ... 40E9 , 1.0 DataBlockEnd ...

freqLevel = 1.0E-6 freqFilter = 7

...

Fig. 6-16 Extract from configuration file nrv-z15.002 (absolute accuracy).

For every frequency point, the expanded (k=2) measurement uncertainty U

abs

in dB must be stated as the

fourth quantity in the measurement file. Essentially, this is the expanded (k=2) measurement uncertainty

ref,abs

of the calibration system (including the mismatch uncertainty) plus a component for the base unit and the ambient temperature and, in the case of the R&S®NRV-Z6 and R&S®NRV-Z15 diode sensors, a component that takes the effect of harmonics into account:

( )

 

oneh,

DUTT,

NRVD,1

absref,

abs

K15.296

2 uTu

U +−++



 





 



=



dB0039.0

NRVD,1

 

Z55Z52/NRV S&RK/dB0005.0

Z15Z6/NRV S&RdB/K0015.0

DUTT,

−−

−−=



T = Sensor temperature in K

dB20

DUT

oneh,

W4dB

−

=



DUT

is the power at the DUT, S the harmonic ratio. At a measurement power of 1 µW and a harmonic

ratio of 25 dB, for example, the uncertainty u

h,one

= 0.028 dB. The default frequency defined for the sensor type in question must be entered as the reference frequency RefValue. This is the frequency that is accepted by the base unit when the frequency-response correction is turned off.

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The default frequency can be found in the corresponding configuration file, where the index FRQREF indicates the corresponding value in the frequency table (index 0 = 1st measurement frequency). In the example above (FRQREF=2), RefValue=5E8 would have to be entered.

Table 6-9 Measurement file fr(NRV-Z15.002)843275.034 for checking absolute accuracy

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = FREQ_RESPONSE

Designation as measurement data for absolute accuracy

Family = NRV

Also NRV for URV5 sensors

DeviceList =

"Power Sensor, HP, 8478B, 3318A2465, 199A5, 1998-05" "Power Meter, HP, 432A, 1234A10012, 199A6, 1999-10" "..."

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component:

"<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>"

The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "843275/034"

Serial number

StockNo = "1081.2305.02"

Material number

SensorType = "NRV-Z15"

Type designation

Date = "2004-05-12"

Calibration date (12 May 2004)

FKF = TRUE

Measurement done with frequency correction turned on, should be always TRUE.

RefValue = 500.00000E+6

Reference frequency

RefUnit = Hz

Reference frequency unit

TestLevel = 1.000000000E-6

Nominal level for Measurement

GammaCorrection = TRUE

Measurement with/without gamma correction

DataPoints = 45

Number of frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 4

Number of values per measurement point

ValueUnit = W

Unit of Value and TestLevel, V for sensors which are marked Voltage- Sensor in the config file.

Value =

Assignment of calibration values

// f/Hz Ref. pwr./W DUT pwr./W Uncertainty U_abs/dB

Comment line

5.00000E7 1.0034E-6 9.9987E-7 1.44E-2

1.00000E8 1.0141E-6 1.0187E-6 1.46E-2

5.00000E8 1.0273E-6 1.0337E-6 1.51E-2

....

4.00000E10 9.0114E-7 8.8547E-7 2.88E-1

DataBlockEnd

List of values, columns separated by at least one space.

Uncertainty U_abs/dB: expanded uncertainty (k=2) for calibration of absolute accuracy.

The list must be terminated with Dat- aBlockEnd.

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Table 6-10 Measurement file fr(NRP-Z11.002)900123 for checking absolute accuracy

[SENSOR-MEAS-DATA-FILE]

Designation as measurement file

CalDataType = FREQ_RESPONSE

Designation as measurement data for absolute accuracy

Family = NRP

Also NRP for FSH sensors

DeviceList =

"Power Sensor, HP, 8478B, 3318A2465, 199A5, 1998-05" "Power Meter, HP, 432A, 1234A10012, 199A6, 1999-10" "..."

DataBlockEnd

List of measuring devices; a separate line is to be provided for each component:

"<designation>, <manufacturer>, <type>, <serial no.>, <certificate no.>, <calibration expiry date>"

The list must be terminated with DataBlockEnd.

TestEngineer = "Peter Schmidt"

Name of test engineer

Humidity = "40 to 60"

Rel. humidity in %

// % r.H.

Comment line

Temperature = "20 to 25"

Temperature range in °C

// °C

Comment line

SerialNo = "900123"

Serial number

StockNo = "1138.3004.02"

Material number

SensorType = "NRP-Z11"

Type designation

Date = "2004-05-12"

Calibration date (12 May 2004)

CalibrationLab = "SE2 Service Dept"

Name of Calibration Lab

FKF = TRUE

Always TRUE for R&S®NRP sensors

RefValue = 500.00000E+6

Reference frequency

RefUnit = Hz

Reference frequency unit

GammaCorrection = TRUE

Measurement with/without gamma correction

TestLevels =

10.00E-6

1.00E-3

1.00E-3 DataBlockEnd

Nominal levels of Measurements for 3 path sensors For R&S®NRP-Z51: TestLevel = … without DataBlockEnd

DataPoints = 45

Number of frequencies

ValuesPerPoint = 4

Number of values per meas. point

ValueUnit = W

Unit of Value and TestLevel (always W for R&S®NRP sensors).

Value =

Assignment of calibration values

// f/Hz Ch1_Ref_Pwr/W Ch1_DUT_Pwr/W Ch1_unc/dB Ch2_Ref_Pwr/W Ch2_DUT_Pwr/W Ch2_unc/dB

Ch3_Ref_Pwr/W Ch3_DUT_Pwr/W Ch3_unc/dB

Comment line, data must be given in this order

10.00000E+6 0.012600394E-3 0.012583287E-3 0.02949060

1.26928072E-3 1.2674270E-3 0.0267329 1.269419463E-3 1.268397333E-3 0.027131145

....

8.0000000E+9 0.0101924E-3 0.01018197E-3 0.04508305

1.0275804E-3 1.02591166E-3 0.0363610 1.02847939E-3 1.027831333E-3 0.036797888

DataBlockEnd

List of values (here NRP), number of columns must be ValuesPerPoint, columns separated by at least one space.

Uncertainty U_abs/dB: expanded uncertainty (k=2) for calibration of absolute accuracy.

The list must be terminated with

DataBlockEnd.

SubstrateTemperature = 0.300000000E+3

Only for R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH, fixed value.

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Power Calibration for R&S®NRV and R&S®URV Sensors

Fig. 6-17 to Fig. 6-27 show the measurement setups used for calibration of absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRPC18 calibration kit. Instead of the R&S®NRP2 base unit also the R&S®NRX base unit can be used.

R&S®NRV-Z2, -Z5, -Z8, -Z51

Fig. 6-17 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z2, -Z5, -Z8, -Z51.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

R&S®NRV-Z32

Fig. 6-18 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z32.

• The sensor is tested with the corresponding attenuator

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

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R&S®NRV-Z33, -Z53, -Z54

Fig. 6-19 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z33, -Z53, -Z54.

• The sensor is tested with the corresponding attenuator

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

R&S®NRV-Z1, -Z4, -Z7, -Z31

Fig. 6-20 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z1, -Z4, -Z7, -Z31.

• Reference attenuator is to be connected to the output of the power standard

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

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R&S®URV5-Z2

Fig. 6-21 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®URV5-Z2.

• Reference attenuator is to be connected to the output of the power standard

• The sensor must be terminated with precision termination

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

R&S®URV5-Z4

Fig. 6-22 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®URV5-Z4.

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

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R&S®URV5-Z7

Fig. 6-23 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®URV5-Z7.

• Reference attenuator is to be connected to the output of the power standard

• The sensor must be connected via a 50  adapter R&S®URV-Z50

• The adapter for adapting the 50  adapter to the reference attenuator has been included with

the R&S®NRVC calibration kit since 1999

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

• The R&S®NRPC18 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog

box

R&S®NRV-Z52

Fig. 6-24 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z52.

• The R&S®NRP2 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog box

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

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R&S®NRV-Z6

Fig. 6-25 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z6.

• Reference attenuator is to be connected to the output of the power standard

• The R&S®NRP2 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog box

R&S®NRV-Z55

Fig. 6-26 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z55.

• The R&S®NRP2 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog box

• Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

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R&S®NRV-Z15

Fig. 6-27 Measurement setup for calibrating absolute accuracy for the R&S®NRV-Z15.

• Reference attenuator is to be connected to the output of the power standard

• The R&S®NRP2 with the power standard must be configured as Meter2 in the Meter dialog box

Depending on the generator used, an adapter for connecting the RF cable may be required

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Linearity Calibration for R&S®NRV and R&S®URV Sensors

R&S®NRV Sensors

NRX

Generator

Adapter

DUT

NRPC-LS

RF Cable

10 MHz reference

NRVD

<IEC625> IEEE 488

Fig. 6-28 Measurement setup for linearity calibration for R&S®NRV power meter family.

• R&S®SMA100B is recommended for calibration of linearity.

• The internal reference oscillator of the generator (10 MHz) has to be connected with the reference

clock of the R&S®NRPC-LS for synchronization.

• For the R&S®NRPC-LS an R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable is mandatory.

• For the R&S®NRV sensors R&S®NRVD power meter is mandatory.

• To allow connection of DUTs with 3.5 mm connectors, the R&S®NRPC33 calibration kits include

adapter .

• To allow connection of DUTs with 2.92 mm connectors, the R&S®NRPC40 calibration kits include

adapter .

R&S®URV5 Sensors

NRX

Generator

Adapter

DUT

NRPC-LS

RF Cable

10 MHz

reference

NRVD

<IEC625> IEEE 488

dB Attenuation 2W Input Power

Fig. 6-29 Measurement setup for linearity calibration for R&S®URV5 power meter family.

• R&S®SMA100B with frequency option up to 20 GHz and with output power options “High output

power” and “Ultra high output power” is mandatory for calibration of linearity.

• The internal reference oscillator of the generator (10 MHz) has to be connected with the reference

clock of the R&S®NRPC-LS for synchronization.

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• For the R&S®NRPC-LS an R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable is mandatory.

• For the R&S®URV5 sensors R&S®NRVD power meter is mandatory.

• The second port of the DUTs must be terminated by a matched termination with maximum input

power at least 2 W. An attenuator with an attenuation of at least 20 dB also can be used. The included attenuator of the R&S®NRPC18 calibration kits is recommended.

Configuration of Power Meter NRVD

For calibration of sensors in the R&S®NRV-Z and R&S®URV5-Z series, an R&S®NRVD base unit is also necessary. Overall, two base units can be controlled: a basic power meter for connecting to the DUT and an R&S®NRX for connecting to one or up to four power standards from the R&S®NRPC calibration kits. The following tables show the possible combination:

Basic power meter

Meter2

R&S®NRVD

R&S®NRX

A / B

A / B / C / D

DUT (R&S®NRV-Z / R&S®URV5-Z)

Up to four R&S®NRPC

Initializing the R&S®NRVD

➢ In the Options menu, open the Remote Devices… dialog box

➢ Select the Meter tab

➢ Press the Search NRVD button within the Basic Power Meter panel. The calibration software now

searches for an R&S®NRVD device from among the devices that are connected to the IEC/IEEE bus. If the search is successful, the address of the device is displayed in the address field. If necessary, press the Search NRVD button again to find a second R&S®NRVD base unit. Note: If you already know the IEC/IEEE bus address of the required device, the search is not necessary and you can simply enter the address

➢ Press the Initialize button.

The calibration software initializes the R&S®NRVD that was found at the specified address

➢ In the case of an initial installation or after a recalibration, the power standard and the linearity stand-

ard are to be connected to the two measurement channels of this R&S®NRVD. The R&S®NRVD should then identify the two sensors and make the necessary entries in the Channel A and Channel B boxes (Error! Reference source not found.)

➢ Press the Add data ... button and enter the calibration expiry date and the Certificate No. for the ad-

dressed R&S®NRVD

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➢ Press the two Update buttons (if available). The expiry

date and the certificate number specified in the copied af... and al... files for the power standard and the linearity standard are then entered. Note: The Update buttons appear only if the data stored in the af... and al... files differs from that in the recal.ini file

➢ Press the OK button

➢ If a second R&S®NRVD is available, press the Use Me-

ter 2 button and proceed accordingly

➢ If an R&S®NRX base unit is connected to the measure-

ment setup, select type NRX from within the Basic Power Meter panel and then press the Search NRX button first and then the Initialize button. Now, initialize the R&S®NRVD base unit connected to the setup as “Meter2”

Note: Meter2 is to be used exclusively to connect the

standards during measurements!

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Operation of the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

Devices for the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

R&S®NRVD Dual-Channel Power Meter

The R&S®NRVD Dual-Channel Power Meter is a discontinued product.

For operation of the R&S®Recal+ calibration software in conjunction with an NRVC calibration Kit, an R&S®NRVD dual-channel power meter is mandatory. The most recent calibration of the instrument should have been within the last 12 months. For calibration of the R&S®NRVD, the R&S®NRVD-S1 service kit is available. It allows complete calibration in only a few minutes in conjunction with a DC voltage calibrator.

If both absolute accuracy and linearity need to be calibrated, a second R&S®NRVD is highly recommended. A DUT from the R&S®NRV-Z or R&S®URV5-Z family is then connected to the first R&S®NRVD, and the reference sensors are operated on the second R&S®NRVD.

Note: Since the R&S®NRVD power meter must also accommodate one of the two reference sen-

sors, it is highly recommended when calibrating sensors in the R&S®NRV-Z or R&S®URV5Z series to use a second R&S®NRVD. In this manner, it is not necessary to change sensors and to wait until the new sensor attains normal operating temperature.

Installing the remaining components of the R&S®NRVC

The reference attenuator and precision termination are also calibrated components of the R&S®NRVC calibration kit. In the calibration reports, they can be found under the section Working Standards Used. Thus, it is necessary to ensure that exactly the specified devices are used.

The corresponding calibration data is stored on the CD-ROM with calibration data in ASCII files under the following names:

• at(NRVC.002)< xxxxxx>.<yyyr > Reference attenuator

• zz(NRVC.002)< xxxxxx>.<yyyr > Precision termination

To enable the R&S®Recal+ calibration software to access these files, they were copied to the directory ...\recal\config32.dat along with the other files (see section Defining Directories, page 29).

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➢ Check the serial numbers of the components to be initialized to ensure that they match the file

names: In the case of items with a new Rohde & Schwarz serial number, this number must be identical to <xxxxxx>. In this case, <yyy> is irrelevant. In the case of items with an old R&S® serial number, this number must be identical to <xxxxxx.yyy>

➢ If only one attenuator is to be used during operation, uncheck the “Confirm before each measure-

ment” check box in the Attenuator dialog box. Otherwise, the software will prompt you for confirma-

tion prior to each measurement that requires an attenuator. If more than one attenuator is to be used, the check box needs to remain selected to ensure that the appropriate file can be selected prior to each measurement

The dialogs can be examined at any time by opening them from the Options menu.

Update Additional Data for the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

The R&S®NRVC calibration kit requires additional data that is saved on the CD-ROM with the calibration data . After the al... and af... files have been copied from the CD-ROM, the message To update additional data...indicates that these files have to be activated explicitly by initializing the R&S®NRVD (see Initializing the R&S®NRVD).

➢ Press the OK button to confirm the request

Configuration of Power Meters with the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

Operating an R&S®NRVC calibration kit requires at least one R&S®NRVD base unit to which the power standard, linearity standard and sensors from the R&S®NRV-Z and R&S®URV5-Z families can be connected. For calibration of sensors in the R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH-Z series, an R&S®NRX power meter is also necessary. For calibration of sensors in the R&S®NRV-Z and R&S®URV5-Z series, it is recommended to connect a second R&S®NRVD base unit. A total of two base units can be used, i.e. a “basic power meter” for handling the DUT and a “Meter2” for handling the two standards. The following tables show the possible combinations:

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Basic power meter

Meter2

R&S®NRX

R&S®NRVD

A / B

DUT (R&S®NRP

/ R&S®FSH-Z)

R&S®NRPC-LS

R&S®NRVC

Basic power meter

Meter2

R&S®NRVD

A / B

DUT

(R&S®NRV-Z

R&S®URV5-Z)

R&S®NRVC

R&S®NRPC-LS

➢ In the case of an initial installation or after a recalibration, always define the/an R&S®NRVD as the

“basic power meter” in order to initialize the power standard and linearity standard (see following section)

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Verification of the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

To ensure the measurement accuracy of the R&S®NRVC calibration kit, all key components – i.e. power standard, linearity standard and reference attenuator – need to be checked regularly. There are two ways of doing this:

• Perform comparison measurements using the two sensors from the R&S®NRVC-B1 verification set

• Check the measurement accuracy using a DC voltage

The comparison measurements with the verification set can be performed via a software program in just a few minutes and are, therefore, the obvious choice for daily functional checks. DC voltage measurements should be performed less frequently, e.g. once a month, in order to check the stability of the power standard, the reference attenuator and the thermal sensor from the verification set. Any errors that are detected can be corrected to compensate for drift resulting from aging or ambient conditions.

An initial verification – including the DC voltage tests – should be performed immediately after the calibration kit is put into operation the first time.

Comparison Measurements with the R&S®NRVC-B1 Verification Set

The R&S®NRVC-B1 verification set contains two sensors: an R&S®NRV-Z1 diode power sensor and an R&S®NRV-Z51 thermal power sensor. Both have been adjusted on the individual calibration kit and exhibit minimum measurement errors with respect to this kit. Large errors indicate that there has probably been some change in the components involved. The verification set can thus detect aging or wear and tear at an early stage, but it cannot be used to recalibrate the measuring equipment.

Use is straightforward:

➢ Verify that the calibration kit matches the verification kit by comparing the serial numbers of the power

standard, reference attenuator and linearity standard with the data on the bottom of the two verification sensors.

➢ Prepare the measurement setup for checking the absolute accuracy as shown in Fig. 6-17 for an

R&S®NRV-Z51 sensor.

➢ Check the absolute accuracy with the R&S®NRV-Z51 sensor from the verification set. Perform one or

more measurement cycles (depending on requirement); otherwise proceed as described under Checking the Absolute Accuracy. The averaged trace must lie within the tolerance band shown in the graphical display. The tolerance limits are considerably tighter than would be the case for a normal R&S®NRV-Z51 sensor. If the trace is shifted uniformly upward or downward over all of the frequency range, this indicates drift of the DC voltage parameters of the power standard or the verification sensor (see section DC Voltage Tests)

➢ Switch the reference attenuator to the output of the power standard (Fig. 6-20) and repeat the check

with the R&S®NRV-Z1 sensor from the verification set. In this case too, the averaged trace must lie within the tolerance band. The tolerance limits are also considerably tighter than would be the case for a normal R&S®NRV-Z1 sensor. Minor changes in the trace may occur if the generator is changed (harmonics)

Note: The model code stored in the data memory of the verification sensors is “88” (ignore the

code on the type plate). This makes it possible to distinguish the sensors from the normal sensors of the same type. It is not possible to accidentally overwrite the data memory contents.

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DC Voltage Tests with the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

The objective of the measurements is to check the characteristics of the power standard, reference attenuator and R&S®NRV-Z51 verification sensor for DC voltages and to use correction factors to eliminate the effects of drift due to aging or ambient conditions. The set of correction data is stored in an editable calibration program file so that it can be cleared at any time as required and the incoming status restored. The correction data can be activated only in conjunction with R&S®Recal+. The menu-driven measurements are performed on a measurement setup as shown in Fig. 4-1. The individual measurement setups are listed in Table 6-11.

The first step is to connect the precision DC termination  to the output of the power standard and then perform zeroing. Next, measure the voltage drop across the built-in 50  resistor by using a digital volt-

meter. Based on the calculated output power and the power measured by the R&S®NRVC, the correction factor K_NRVC is obtained. The correction factor for the reference attenuator , referred to as K_ATT, can be obtained in the same manner. To perform this measurement, connect the reference attenuator between the power standard and the DC termination. Finally, connect the R&S®NRV-Z51 sensor from the verification set to the output of the power standard. Based on the measured values of the power standard, verification sensor and correction factor K_NRVC , the K_Z51 correction factor is obtained.

Since the sensitivity of the thermal sensors in the R&S®NRV-Z51 and the power standard is polaritydependent, all measurements are made with positive as well as negative feed voltage and the arithmetic mean is used when calculating the correction factors.

Ideally, all three correction factors should be 1 since a DC calibration of the individual components was performed when the R&S®NRVC was calibrated. Deviations may be due both to ambient conditions and the base unit that was used. During verification, it is best to connect the power standard to the R&S®NRVD measurement channel that will also be used for the power standard when the R&S®NRVC is used later on.

Note: To calculate the power that was con-

verted in the DC termination



on the

basis of voltage measurements the termination must contain a high-precision 50  resistor. The built-in resistor therefore meets a very tight tolerance requirement (±0.01 %) and has only a minimum effect on the measurement results. Nevertheless, the resistor should be occasionally checked with a multimeter. The termination should equal 50 ± 0.015 . A four-pole resistance measurement should be performed (see opposite figure).

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Fig. 6-30 Test setup for checking the calibration kit with DC voltage.

Additional measuring equipment required

DC source: Stable DC voltage source with an output voltage of 0.45 V into 50 . At a load of 50 , the

output voltage should not vary by more than ± 0.01 % from the mean value.

Digital voltmeter: 5½ digits with a resolution of at least 1 V at a measured voltage of 22 mV or 1 m at a resistance of 50 . The measurement uncertainty should not be greater than 0.01 % for DC voltage measurements. The settings for the averaging filter and/or integration time need be selected such that the display is stable. Select autoranging.

Table 6-11 Measurement steps for verification with DC voltage

Item no.

Feed voltage

Attenuator 

Meas. power for R&S®NRVC (approx.)

Meas. voltage V (approx.)

Meas. power for R&S®NRV-Z51 (approx.)

+0.45 V

Not fitted

NRVC,1

(1 mW)

V1 (+0.225 V)

----- 2 -0.45 V

Not fitted

NRVC,2

(1 mW)

V2 (-0.225 V)

----- 3 +0.45 V

Fitted

NRVC,3

(1 mW)

V3 (+0.022 V)

-----

-0.45 V

Fitted

NRVC,4

(1 mW)

V4 (-0.022 V)

----- 5 +0.45 V

Not fitted

NRVC,5

(1 mW)

-----

Z51,5

(1 mW)

-0.45 V

Not fitted

NRVC,6

(1 mW)

-----

Z51,6

(1 mW)

Measurement procedure

➢ Allow the test setup shown in Fig. 4-1 to warm up for at least an hour. Do not forget to connect the

verification sensor to the R&S®NRVD

➢ Launch R&S®Recal+ and select the DC Correction... dialog in the Options menu

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Fig. 6-31 Dialog box for checking the R&S®NRVC with DC voltage

➢ The DC Correction dialog box allows interactive measurement. Perform measurements in the se-

quence specified in (Table 6-11)

Calculating correction factor K_NRVC

• Connect the precision DC termination – without

attenuator – directly to the output of the power standard

• Press the Meas button (1. in the DC Correction

dialog box): You will now be prompted to confirm that you want to prepare for zeroing

• If a DC calibrator is used, set the output voltage to 0 V. Otherwise, remove the two banana connectors

on the connecting cable from the source and short-circuit them

• Start manual zeroing on the digital voltmeter

• Press the OK button. Zeroing is performed for

the power standard on the R&S®NRVD

• After you complete zeroing, you will be prompted

to confirm that you want to prepare for measurement with +0.45 V

• Plug the connecting cable into the source again and set the output voltage to +0.45 V

• Press the OK button: The power applied to the R&S®NRVC is measured, and the measured value is

shown in the P field of step 1

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• Measure the voltage drop at the DC termination

using the digital voltmeter and enter the measured value into the U field of step 1

• Set the output voltage to –0.45 V on the DC

source (or interchange the connectors of the connecting cables)

• Measure the voltage drop at the DC termination using the digital voltmeter and enter the measured

value – with negative sign – into the U field of step 2

• Press the Meas & Calc button

• Press the OK button

• The power applied to the R&S®NRVC is measured and the measured value is shown in the P field of

step 2. The new correction factor K_NRVC is displayed

• Switch off the output voltage of the DC source

Calculating correction factor K_ATT

• Insert the reference attenuator between the power standard and the DC termination

• In the Select attenuator panel, select the file that matches the attenuator (file name identical to serial

number)

• Press the Meas button and proceed as described above. Do not forget to perform new zeroing for the

digital voltmeter

Calculating correction factor K_Z51

• Connect the R&S®NRV-Z51 verification sensor to the output of the power standard

• Wait five minutes and then press the Meas button. Now proceed as described for the other measure-

ments

Saving correction factors

• Press the Save K_ factors button

• The correction factors will be saved under the

CALIBRATION heading in the recal.ini initializa- tion file located in the Windows directory

[CALIBRATION] K_NRVC_874332_003 = 0.99898 K_ATT_874334_003 = 1.00070 K_Z51_875224_003 = 0.99740

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Measurement Uncertainty

The measurement uncertainties for absolute accuracy and linearity specified in the calibration report are calculated individually for each sensor by the calibration software, based on the ISO Guide to the Expres-

sion of Uncertainty in Measurement



). The measurement uncertainty contributions of the different influ-

ence quantities are combined statistically. The calculated measurement uncertainty is the “expanded uncertainty” with an expansion factor of k=2. Assuming normal distribution of the values, the uncertainty range has a coverage probability of 95%.

The influence quantities relevant for calculating the measurement uncertainty are explained in the following, and the formulas for the associated relative standard uncertainties ui are specified in dB. The expanded measurement uncertainty U is calculated based on the following equation:



 



 



=

Calibration of Absolute Accuracy

The relevant influence quantities for the calibration are listed in Table 6-12 (R&S®NRP / FSH-Z sensors) and Table 6-13 (R&S®NRV-Z / R&S®URV5-Z sensors). The individual influence quantities related to the measurement uncertainty for the power standards are presented separately for the R&S®NRPC power standards. The influence quantities are explained below in greater detail:

1. Measurement uncertainty of the power standard

R&S®NRPC calibration kit

This expresses the uncertainty of the power of the emanating wave at the test port. The influence quantities are shown in Table 6-14. During operation of an R&S®NRPC33 or R&S®NRPC40 with the 20 dB reference attenuator, the influence quantities in Table 6-15 must also be taken into account.

R&S®NRVC calibration kit

This expresses the uncertainty of the power of the emanating wave at the test port. The uncertainty is calculated by means of the R&S®NRVD firmware based on the ISO Guide and influence quantity numbers 20 to 26 in Table 6-16 are taken into account. To avoid rounding errors, the value read out from the R&S®NRVD with a resolution of 0.01 dB is increased by 0.005 dB prior to further processing in R&S®Recal+.

The expanded measurement uncertainty of the R&S®NRVC power standard can be manually displayed at any time by pressing the DISP key and selecting the LEV+UNC menu item on the R&S®NRVD base unit (e.g. 1.0045 mW 0.12 dB RSS), or it can be read out with the corresponding remote control command. In both cases, the standing wave ratio (SWR) of the connected component (DUT or 20 dB reference attenuator) has to be transferred to the R&S®NRVD. During usage of the 20 dB reference attenuator, the influence quantities shown in Table 6-17 must also be taken into account.



) ISO Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement. First edition 1993, corrected and reprinted 1995, Interna-

tional Organization for Standardization, Geneva, Switzerland, ISBN: 92-67-10188-9, 1995.

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Table 6-12 Influence quantities for calibration of absolute accuracy

(R&S®NRP and R&S®FSH-Z sensors)

DUT 

Power sensor

(therm.)

R&S®…

Power sensor

(diode)

R&S®…

Power sensor

(diode)

R&S®…

NRPxxT(N); NRP-Z5x

NRPxxA(N); NRPxxS(N); NRP-Z11, -Z21, -Z31,

-Z91; FSH-Z1, -Z18

NRP-Z211, -221

-Z81, -Z85,

-Z86

NRP18S-10,

-20, -25; NRP-Z22, -Z23,

-Z24, -Z92

Item no.

Calibration level / dBm   Influence quantity

-20 / 0

-10

-20/0*

Measurement uncertainty of power standard

⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Reproducibility of RF connection at test port to DUT

⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Influence of 2nd and 3rd harmonics

⚫ ⚫ ⚫

Ambient temperature (DUT)

⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Zero offset and display noise (DUT)

⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Measurement uncertainty of reference meas. path in DUT

⚫

Measurement uncertainty for DUT's attenuator

⚫

Table 6-13 Influence quantities for calibration of absolute accuracy

(R&S®NRV-Z / R&S®URV5-Z sensors)

DUT 

Power sensor

(therm.)

R&S®…

Power sensor

(diode) R&S®…

Insertion unit

R&S®…

RF probe

R&S®…

NRV-Z51

-Z52

-Z53

-Z54

-Z55

NRV -Z1

-Z4

-Z7

-Z31

NRV -Z2

-Z5

-Z8

-Z32

-Z33

URV5-Z2

URV5-Z4

URV5-Z7

Item no.

Calibration level / dBm   Influence quantity

0 / +10

-30 / 20

-10/

0/+10

-30

-10

-30

Measurement uncertainty of power standard

⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

1-A

Measurement uncertainty of power standard with reference attenuator

⚫ ⚫

⚫

Reproducibility of RF connection at test port

⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Influence of 2nd and 3rd harmonics

⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫

Ambient temperature (DUT)

⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Zero offset and display noise (DUT)

⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

Mismatch of termination

⚫

Measurement uncertainty of base unit for absolute power measurements (DUT)

⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ ⚫

⚫

On sensor; without attenuator.

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Table 6-14 Influence quantities for the measurement uncertainty of the

R&S®NRPC power standard .

Item no.

Influence quantity

Measurement uncertainty by reference to internal reference circuit

Calibration uncertainty

Mismatch uncertainty at test port

Linearity uncertainty

Ambient temperature

Zero offset and display noise

Table 6-15 Additional influence quantities for the measurement uncertainty of the

R&S®NRPC power standard with 20 dB reference attenuator .

Item no.

Influence quantity

Reproducibility of RF connection at output of reference attenuator

Calibration uncertainty of 20 dB reference attenuator

Mismatch uncertainty between DUT and reference attenuator

Table 6-16 Influence quantities for the measurement uncertainty of the

R&S®NRVC power standard .

Item no.

Influence quantity

Measurement uncertainty in case of verification with DC voltage

Calibration uncertainty

Mismatch uncertainty at test port

Linearity uncertainty

Ambient temperature

Zero offset and display noise

Quantization noise

Measurement uncertainty of base unit after DC calibration of power standard

Table 6-17 Additional influence quantities for the measurement uncertainty of the

R&S®NRVC power standard with 20 dB reference attenuator .

Item no.

Influence quantity

Calibration uncertainty of 20 dB reference attenuator

Mismatch uncertainty between DUT and reference attenuator

Reproducibility of RF connection at output of reference attenuator

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2. Reproducibility of RF connection at test port of power standard

For the standard uncertainty ur of the random attenuation deviation from the average value, the following equation applies:

r1r

The value N is the number of measurement cycles (1, 2, 3, 4), and ur1 is a specified value ) for N connectors (made of stainless steel, 10000 plugging operations). The spread for the other connectors was estimated on an empirical basis from statistical analyses.

Table 6-18 Spread (1) of insertion loss of connectors of type N-50Ω

Frequency

0 to 8.0 GHz

> 8.0 GHz to 12.4 GHz

> 12.4 GHz to 18 GHz

/ dB

0.0045

0.0070

0.0105

Table 6-19 Spread (1) of insertion loss of connectors of type PC 3.5 mm, PC 2.92 mm,

PC 2.4 mm and PC 1.85 mm

Frequency

0 to 2.0 GHz

> 2.0 GHz to

8.0 GHz

> 8 GHz to 13 GHz

> 13 GHz to

26.5 GHz

> 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz

> 40 GHz to 67 GHz

/ dB

0.003

0.005

0.0070

0.009

0.011

0.013

3. Influence of 2nd and 3rd harmonics

Harmonics of the test signal can influence the measurement accuracy of power or voltage sensors using diode rectifiers. Compared to a thermal power meter (as used in the power standard), a power level that is slightly too high or too low is measured depending on the phase of the second and third harmonics

with reference to the fundamental. Based on the maximum measurement errors) determined empirically and by applying a u distribution as a function of phase angle, a formulation for the standard uncertainty

is obtained. This formulation depends on the actual configuration of the detector and is described below

for the various types of sensors.

R&S®NRPxxA(N), R&S®NRPxxS(N), R&S®NRP18S-10/-20/-25, R&S®NRP-Z11/-Z21/-Z22/-Z23/-Z24/

-Z31/-Z91/-Z92 and R&S®FSH-Z1/-Z18 3-path sensors

These sensors are multi-path devices with a full-wave rectifier. The uncertainty must be determined separately for each measurement path. For the standard uncertainty uh, the following formulation is applied:

( )

dB20

dB30

ref

DUT

−



where

k Measurement path (1, 2, 3) P

DUT

Calibration power

S Ratio of the generator's third harmonic (see configuration files) P

ref

9 W



) D. Bergfried, H. Fischer: Insertion-Loss Repeatability Versus Life of Some Coaxial Connectors. IEEE Trans. on Instrumen-

tation and Measurement, Vol. IM-19, No. 4, pp. 349-353 (Table I), November 1970.



) Voltage and Power Measurements – Fundamentals, Definitions, Products. ROHDE & SCHWARZ publication

PD 757.0835.12 (Fig. 28), 1995.

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R&S®NRP-Z211/-Z221 2-path sensors

The R&S®NRP- Z211/-Z221 devices are two-path sensors with a full-wave rectifier. The uncertainty must be determined separately for each measurement path. For the standard uncertainty uh, the following formulation is applied:

dB20

dB30

ref

DUT

500

−



where

k Measurement path (1,2) P

DUT

Calibration power

S Ratio of the generator's third harmonic (see configuration files) P

ref

72 W

R&S®NRP-Z81, -Z85, -Z86 wideband power sensors

The R&S®NRP-Z81, -Z85, -Z86 devices are wideband power sensors with a full-wave rectifier. For the standard uncertainty uh, the following formulation is applied:

dB20

DUT

ref

17.2

−



where

ref

300 µW

DUT

Calibration power

S Ratio of the generator's third harmonic (see configuration files)

For the wideband power sensors, an additional error must be taken into account besides the influence of the harmonics produced by the generator. This is due to the fact that wideband power sensors generate their own disruptive harmonics. These harmonics are reflected partially at the power standard's test port and thus cause a change in the input signal. The share of the reflected harmonic is determined by the reflection at the test port at the frequency of the harmonic. In the frequency range up to 4 GHz, the influence is dominated by the third harmonic. At higher frequencies, the influence of the second harmonic predominates.

Frequency ≤ 4 GHz

( )

5.14

5.1

W107.5

3062.0

DUT

+

=

−



Frequency > 4 GHz

( )

5.14

5.1

W105.3

2037.0

DUT

+

=

−



( )

05.1für 35.0 fvv

=



( )

05.1für 90.0 fvv

=



where

DUT

Calibration power in W

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( )



Assumption for the magnitude of the reflection coefficient at the test port of the power stand-

ard at the frequency of the harmonic

Upper frequency limit of the power standard (see Table 1-1), e.g.: 40 GHz for an

R&S®NRPC40. For measurement frequencies below 4 GHz, set v to triple the value of the measurement frequency, and above this set it to double the value

R&S®NRV and R&S®URV5 sensors

These sensors have only one measurement path, but a distinction must be made on the basis of the type of rectifier (see Table 6-20). For the standard uncertainty u

h,one

using a half-wave rectifier, the following

equation applies:

dB20

ref

DUT

oneh,

−

=

For the standard uncertainty u

h,two

using a full-wave rectifier, the following equation applies:

dB20

dB30

ref

DUT

twoh,

−

=

It is assumed that the measurement errors occurring for a half-wave rectifier are caused mainly by the second harmonic and for a full-wave rectifier mainly by the third harmonic.

S is the harmonic ratio for the generator used in dB (see configuration files), P

DUT

is the calibration power

for the DUT in W and P

ref

is a reference power in W specified for the corresponding sensor.

Table 6-20 Characteristic values for the R&S®NRV-Z and R&S®URV5-Z diode sensors

Sensor type  R&S®…

NRV-Z1, -Z6,

-Z7, -Z15

NRV-Z2, -Z8

NRV-Z4, -Z31

NRV-Z5, -Z32

NRV-Z33

URV5-Z2, -Z7

URV5-Z4

ref

4 µW

400 µW

1 µW

100 µW

1 mW

1 µW

100 µW

Rectifier

Half-wave

Full-wave

Fullwave

Full-wave

Fullwave

4. Ambient temperature (DUT)

All sensors except R&S®NRP-Z81/-Z85/-Z86 wideband power sensors

Since the calibration uncertainty stated in the calibration report is valid for an ambient temperature of 23 °C (296.15 K), an additional measurement uncertainty has to be taken into account for the DUT at other calibration temperatures. For a standard uncertainty u

T,abs

, the following equation applies:

( )

K15.296

DUTT,

T,abs

−= T



T is the ambient temperature (in Kelvin) measured by the R&S

NRVD or R&S®NPR2 in the power stand-

ard and



T,DUT

is a standard deviation of the remaining temperature coefficient for the DUT after internal temperature correction, valid for the range from 20 °C to 25 °C. For diode sensors, a value of 0.0015 dB/K is generally assumed, and for thermal sensors, a value of 0.0005 dB/K.

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

1109.0930.32 -14 98 E-14

R&S®NRP-Z81/-Z85/-Z86 wideband power sensors

The ambient temperature has only a slight impact with these sensors since internal correction is performed at each operating temperature. In the end, there is only a small influence in the sensor due to the temperature measurement. Independent of the frequency, level and temperature, a standard uncertainty is assumed for this influence as follows:

T,abs

102

−

=

5. Zero offset and display noise (DUT)

R&S®NRPxxA(N), R&S®NRPxxS(N), R&S®NRP18S-10/-20/-25, R&S®NRP-Z11/-Z21/-Z22/-Z23/-Z24/

-Z31/-Z91/-Z92 and R&S®FSH-Z1/-Z18 3-path sensors

In the three-path sensors, the influence of the zero point and noise is taken into account with the following equation:

( ) ( )

z(DUT),0

n(DUT),0

DUTn,z

s 1

172.2



 





 





+



 





 





=

−−−−

DUT

N Number of measurement cycles (1, 2, 3, 4) k Measurement path (1, 2, 3) 2TA Width of measurement window (generally 220 ms) M Averaging factor (2, 4, 8, etc.) P

DUT

Calibration power

n(DUT),0



display noise for path 1 at a measurement time of 1 s (typ. 128 pW)

z(DUT),0

Zero offset for path 1 at an integration time of 4 s (typ. 64 pW)

R&S®NRP-Z211/-Z221 2-path sensors

In the R&S®NRP-Z211/-Z221 two-path diode sensors, the influence of the zero point and noise is taken into account with the following equation:

z(DUT)

n(DUT)

DUTn,z

s 1

500

172.2



 





 



+









 



=

−

DUTDUT

MTP

N Number of measurement cycles (1, 2, 3, 4) k Measurement path (1, 2) 2TA Width of measurement window (generally 2  20 ms) M Averaging factor (2, 4, 8, etc.) P

DUT

Calibration power

n(DUT)



-display noise at a measurement time of 1 s (typ. 560 pW)

z(DUT)

Zero offset at an integration time of 4 s (typ. 560 pW)

Calibration Kits for Power Sensors R&S NRPC

1109.0930.32 - 14 99 E-14

R&S®NRPxxT(N), R&S®NRP-Z51/-Z52/-Z55/-Z56 thermal sensors and R&S®NRP-Z81/-Z85/-Z86 wideband sensors

In the thermal sensors and wideband sensors, the influence of the zero point and noise is taken into account with the following equation:

DUT

z(DUT)

DUT

n(DUT)

DUTn,z

s 1172.2



 





 



+



 





 



=

MTP

N Number of measurement cycles (1, 2, 3, 4) 2TA Width of measurement window M Averaging factor (2, 4, 8, etc.) P

DUT

Calibration power

n(DUT)



-display noise at a measurement time of 1 s (Table 6-21)

z(DUT)

Zero offset (Table 6-21)

Table 6-21 Display noise and zero offset

R&S®NRP-

Sensor type  R&S®...

Z51/Z55

(Var .02)

Z52

(Var .18)

Z52

(Var .02)

Z51/Z55

(Var .03)

Z56

NRPxxT(N)

Z81/Z85/Z86

Integration time

for zeroing

4 s

10 s

4 s

n(DUT)

80 nW

60 nW

0.74 nW

z(DUT)

60 nW

25 nW

0.46 nW

R&S®NRV and R&S®URV5 sensors

To simplify calculation, the same equation for standard uncertainty is applied for all sensors:

005.0

DUTn,z=+

This equation was derived for R&S®NRV-Z54 sensors. For all other sensor types, the uncertainties that are calculated using this equation are considerably higher than the values actually to be expected.

6. Measurement uncertainty of the reference path in the DUT

The R&S®NRPxxA(N), R&S®NRPxxS(N), R&S®NRP18S-10/-20/-25, R&S®NRP-Z11/-Z21/-Z22/-Z23/

-Z24/-Z91/-Z31/Z41/Z61/-Z92 and R&S®FSH-Z1/-Z18 sensors each contain three measurement paths with different sensitivity which must be calibrated individually. The less sensitive measurement paths 2 and 3 can be adjusted at 0 dBm, while the more sensitive measurement path 1 requires a calibration level of -20 dBm.

Since the R&S®NRPC and R&S®NRVC power standards cannot provide this level at the degree of accuracy required, the DUT itself is used as a reference, and specifically the center measurement path (2). The R&S®Recal+ software ensures that this measurement path was itself adjusted (at 0 dBm) prior to a calibration at -20 dBm. In contrast to the method with a 20 dB attenuator connected (see R&S®NRV-Z1 sensor, for example), a somewhat lower total measurement uncertainty and outstanding linearity are achieved for switchover from one measurement path to another.

R&S NRPC Calibration Kits for Power Sensors

1109.0930.32 -14 100 E-14

The total measurement uncertainty is larger by the value of the influence of the linearity of measurement path 2. For this influence quantity, a standard uncertainty is applied as follows:

1066

lin_ref

GHz

100.1

GHz

108.6107.1100.1

 



 



+

 



 



++



 





 



=

−−−

−

fu : 9 kHz for R&S®NRP-Z91/-Z92,

10 MHz for all other multi-path sensors excluded NRP-Z41/-Z61

For the R&S®NRP-Z41/-Z61 it follows:

864

lin_ref

GHz

103.7

GHz

10171063.1

 



 



+

 



 



+=

−−−

7. Measurement uncertainty for connected attenuator

In the case of the R&S®NRP18S-10/-20/-25 and R&S®NRP-Z22/-Z23/-Z24/-Z92 sensors, the calibration data is stored separately for the power sensor and the attenuator so that measurements can also be performed without the attenuator. As a result, the power sensor and the attenuator must also be calibrated separately.

The uncertainties for adjustment of the attenuator are to be transferred in the measurement file for the attenuator (see section Measurements on a Separate Measurement Setup). These uncertainties are stored in this form in the sensor data memory and are also output in the test report for the attenuator. They are not added to the uncertainties for the sensor.

8. Mismatch of termination

In case of a mismatch (reflection coefficient



TERM

), the termination produces standing waves with an

TERM

SWR



21+

. This causes a voltage that is slightly too high or too low to be measured in the

R&S®URV5-Z2 and R&S®URV5-Z4 insertion units depending on the frequency or phase angle of



TERM



). Based on a u distribution of the measurement errors vs. the phase angle as well as a rectangular

distribution of

TERM



between the specified maximum value

max

TERM



(see data sheet / technical in-

formation for the R&S®NRVC) and a half multiple of this value, the following value is applied for the standard uncertainty:









 





+=

75.0

1lg20

max

TERM



9. Measurement uncertainty of the R&S®NRVD base unit for absolute power measurements

(DUT)

To account for the influence of the base unit, the following standard uncertainty u

NRVD,1

is applied:

0039.0

NRVD,1

This value has been proven to be adequate provided that the R&S®NRVD is calibrated once a year and the operating temperature range is 20 °C to 25 °C.



) Voltage and Power Measurements – Fundamentals, Definitions, Products. ROHDE & SCHWARZ publication

PD 757.0835.12 (Fig. 12/13), 1995.

Rohde&Schwarz NRPC18, NRPC33, NRPC40, NRPC50, NRPC67 Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

1 General

Intended Use

Key features

Description of the Calibration Kits

Information about the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Information about the R&S®NRVC Calibration Kit

Information and Instructions on Calibration

Warm-Up Time for Devices under Test (DUTs)

Reflection Measurement

Calibration of Absolute Accuracy

Refreshing the Device under Test's Data Set

Gamma Correction

R&S®NRP Sensors with Attenuator

Diode Sensors in the R&S®NRV and R&S®URV5 Families

Linearity Calibration

Information about the Supported Sensors

Calibration of absolute accuracy with standard R&S®NRPC

Calibration of linearity with standard R&S®NRPC-LS

2 Putting into Operation

Unpacking the Unit

R&S®NRPC18 and R&S®NRPC18-B1

R&S®NRPC33 and R&S®NRPC33-B1

R&S®NRPC40 and R&S®NRPC40-B1

R&S®NRPC50 and R&S®NRPC50-B1

R&S®NRPC67 and R&S®NRPC67-B1

R&S®NRPC-LS

Additional Hardware Requirements

Devices for the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Controller

R&S®NRP-ZK6, -ZK8 interface cable

R&S®NRX Power Meter

Generators for Calibration of Absolute Accuracy

Generators for Calibration of Linearity

Vector Network Analyzers for Calibration of Matching

Power Calibration for R&S®NRP Sensors

R&S®NRP Sensors 10 MHz (8 kHz) up to 18 GHz

R&S®FSH-Z1, -Z18

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 33 GHz

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 40 GHz

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 50 GHz

R&S®NRP Sensors up to 67 GHz

Linearity Calibration for R&S®NRP Sensors

R&S®NRP Sensors

3 Sensor Calibration

Preparation

Installing the R&S®Recal+ Calibration Software on the Hard Disk

Installing the R&S®ZVX_RECAL Additional Program on the Hard Disk

Starting the Calibration Software

Entering the Name and Address of the Calibration Laboratory

Defining Directories

Initializing the Measuring Equipment

Configuration of Power Meters with the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Initializing the R&S®NRX

Initializing the Generators

Initializing Network Analyzers

Performing the Calibration

Incoming Inspection

Checking the Matching

Checking the Linearity

Checking the Absolute Accuracy

Generating the Calibration Report

Suppressing the Rohde & Schwarz logo

Calculating a New EPROM File

Overwriting the Data Memory of a Sensor with Flash EPROM

Archiving

Copying Files to Archive

Fetching Files from Archive

4 Verification

Verification of the R&S®NRPC Calibration Kit

Built-In Self-Test of the Power Standard

Comparison Measurements with the R&S®NRPC-B1 Verification Set

5 Recalibration

Procedures to be Performed after Recalibration

6 Appendix

Exchanging the RF Connector on the Test Port of the Power Standard