A commercial multi-line TRL calibration

Abstract

A commercial implementation of the reference multi-line TRL has recently become available [1]. While the algorithm implementation has intentionally been kept as true to the previously published details [2]–[3] as possible, the implementation in a current and supported software application enables new capabilities. In addition to support for reference line Zo and propagation constant determination, Zo renormalization, and error term error bound comparison [4], the new implementation supports a wide-variety of vector network analyzer models. Fully automated MLTRL calibration is enabled by using programmable stage and positioner moves with appropriately equipped semi-automatic probe stations. The automation and improved consistency of probe placement results in dramatically faster and less laborious calibration with better calibration repeatability.