A Novel Procedure for Network Analyzer Calibration and Verification

Abstract

A solid state microwave two-port calibration device, capable of establishing a plurality of reflection coefficients at its port and a low loss transmission coefficient through itself, is programmed by a set of digital signals. The device enables the user to model the one or two-port systematic errors of a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). Unlike commonly used multiple one-port or two-port coaxial standards for the calibration of a VNA, the device can deduce the systematic error coefficients automatically through a one time connection to a VNA. The accuracy of calibration is improved due to the reduction in connector non-repeatability and by use of a least squared fitting algorithm to deduce one-port error model from the plurality of reflection coefficients. Also, due to a one time connection, this method is physically more convenient, less prone to operator error, and less damaging to connectors. This broadband, highly repeatable and stable device can be used as an alternate transfer standard once it has been calibrated on a traceable VNA.