HP 85052c User manual

User’s Guide
HP 85052C Precision Calibration Kit
HEWLETT
PACKARD

TRAINING
VIDEOTAPE USER’SPRODUCT NOTE PRODUCT NOTE CONNECTOR SERVICE GUIDE
a510-5A 851 O-8A CARE CARD MANUAL
Using theHP
85052C
HP 85052c
Operating and
Precision Service Manual
Calibration Kit
HP 85052C Precision Calibration Kit Operating and Service Package

TABLE OFCONTENTS
Chapter 1
Introduction to the Calibration Kit
Calibration Kit Components
Air Lines
O-2 GHz Loads
Reflect Standards
Isolation Standards
Precision Adapters
Tools
5
Chapter 2 Performing a TRL 2-Port Measurement Calibration
Electrostatic Discharge
Clean and Inspect
Cleaning
Using Connector Gages
Configure Port 1 and Port 2
Install Test Port Return Cables
Install Precision Adapters
Air Line Frequency Coverage
Load Calibration Kit Definition
Measure Standards
When Stop Frequency is Greater than 7 GHz
When Start Frequency is Less than 7 GHz
When Start Frequency is Less than 2 GHz
Check the Calibration
11
Chapter 3
Noninsertable Calibrations
General Theory
Noninsertable Device Configurations
Adapter Removal Calibration Procedure
Chapter 4
Other Calibrations
Changing Air Line Frequency Range
Lowband Reflection Instead of
0 to 2 Loads or 2 to 7 Line
Lowband Reflection Procedure
26
28
3

I N T R 0 D U C T I 0 N
What’s in this Guide Th*
IS guide describes how to use the HP 85052C calibration
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
User’s Video
Application Note
Service Manual
Before Proceeding. . .
kit with the HP 8510 vector network analyzer to perform
the TRL 2-Port measurement calibration technique, and
how to evaluate the results of the calibration.
This chapter introduces the components of the kit, and
describes important connection techniques.
In this chapter, detailed sequences describe how to set up
the network analyzer system, and use the kit to perform
the 3.5 mm TRL ~-POX? Calibration procedure.
Since many applications require measurement of devices
that are not insertable, this chapter describes the theory of
and how to use the kit to perform the Adapter Removal
procedure for measurement of noninsertable devices.
This chapter, entitled “Other Calibrations,” describes use
of the network analyzer Modify Cal Kit function to redefine
the calibration kit and how to use the Lowband Reflection
option.
This guide is supplemented by a video presentation that
shows how an experienced operator uses the calibration kit
parts. If you have access to this tape, view it along with this
manual first.
Another supplement, Application Note 326, Microwave
Connector Care, gives general principles of microwave
connector care. With the exception of changing the
recommended connector cleaning fluid from the previously
recommended liquid freon (a CFC) to isopropyl alcohol, this
connector care manual will serve as an excellent starting
point to become familiar with general requirements for
achieving optimum results using this calibration kit.
Refer to the Service Manual for specifications, replaceable
parts, and other pertinent information. Inside the
calibration kit box a quick reference card illustrates
procedures for connecting and disconnecting the air line.
This memory aid is helpful to the operator who is familiar
with the kit and TRL 2-Port calibration theory.
The parts in this kit are delicate and must be handled with
care to avoid damage that would affect the accuracy of the
calibration. Check all test device connectors carefully
before connecting to the TRL adapters.

HP 85052C Precision Calibration Kit
CHAPTER ON
E
Introduction to the Calibration Kit
The HP 85052C 3.5 mm Precision Calibration Kit is
designed to be used in TRL 2-Port measurement calibra-
tion as implemented in vector network analyzers. TRL
stands for Thru-Reflect-Line, naming the main standards
used in the accuracy enhancement procedure.
TRL represents a family of calibration techniques that
measure various combinations of transmission lines and
reflection standards to determine the 2-Port 12-term error
coefficients. The specific calibration technique described
here uses measurements of the zero-length thru connec-
tion, identical reflection standards at each port, and one or
more transmission lines of appropriate impedance and
length for the frequency range. Both the TRL 2-PORT and
the Full 2-Port calibration types use the same accuracy
enhancement mathematics to correct the measured data.
TRL, as implemented with this calibration kit, brings con-
venience, accuracy, and repeatability to the error
correction process because the typical TRL calibration
requires fewer parts that are simpler to connect and -
disconnect.
The 3.5 mm geometry connector is the most frequently
used connector when frequency coverage up to 26.5
GHz, reasonable commonality, and durability is desired.
Well constructed connectors and transmission lines can
work up to 34 GHz. Metrology grade versions of this con-
nector are used for high performance test ports and for
calibration standards. Whether the device uses SMA,
SMA-compatible, or 3.5 mm, the HP 3.5 mm connectors
used on the HP test ports, adapters, cables, and calibration
standards provide the most accurate and repeatable -
solution.
All male connectors in this kit are HP precision with care-
fully controlled dimensions. All female connectors are of
the HP precision slotless (PSC-3.5) type. These connectors
are designed for long repeatability when used with appro-
priate technique. This means careful inspection of the kit
parts, familiarity with their use, and careful inspection of
the Device Under Test (DUT) connectors. Refer to the
“Specifications” chapter in the HP 85052C Service Man-
ual, and the Technical Note included with this manual for
specific information about precision slotless connectors.
5

Calibration
Kit Components
Air Lines
The HP 85052C 3.5 mm Precision Calibration Kit contains
components useful for several different calibration tech-
niques. The parts used for the TRL 2-Port calibration are:
l Longer precision air line for 2 to 7 GHz
l Shorter precision air line for 7 to 32 GHz
l Male and female short circuits
l Male and female fixed loads
Other parts included are:
l Three precision TRL adapters
. Two adapter anti-rotation clamps
l Calibration kit definition tape
l Male and female open circuits
l Tools
Note the reference card in the box and the material list on
the bottom of the box.
These are precision air lines. Each one is always stored in
its installation tool to help prevent damage and preserve
cleanliness.
The shorter air line is used for measurement calibration
over the 7 to 32 GHz frequency range. The longer air line is
used for measurement calibration over the 2 to 7 GHz
range. Each air line is fully specified at all frequencies
within its stated range.
7-32 LINE
II a’
2-7 LINE
Line Standards - 7 to 32 GHz and 2 to 7 GHz Air Lines Installed in Tools with Storage Bottles
Polar Display Showing Phase Response of Longer
Air Line Over 2 to 7 GHz Frequency Range Polar Display Showing Phase Response of Shorter
Air Line over 7 to 26.5 GHz Frequency Range

Air Lines Removed From installation Tools
Each air line consists of a separate outer conductor and
center conductor and includes its own tool used for
installing and removing the parts from the test port. Both
are insertable. Each has a male end and a female end. The
male end of the air line fits into the installation tool.
The parts may be removed for inspection, if necessary, but
the tool is always used to install the parts for calibration.
Use extreme care in handling these parts. Use static dissi-
pative finger sheaths, or “finger cots” to prevent contami-
nation. Liquid or solid residue on the connector parts will
degrade performance. In particular, the inner conductors
can be easily deformed by squeezing. Do not use metallic
tweezers or other devices to pick up or hold the parts.
installing the Air Lines in installation Tools
0 to 2 GHz Loads Th’ IS implementation of the TRL 2-Port calibration allows
measurement of the loads to determine the error coeffi-
cients up to 2 GHz. Technically, the measurement is
treated as an infinite-length transmission line whose input
reflection is the reference impedance, Z,.
Note: The male and female broadband loads are
manufactured to tolerances that assure equivalent responses,
at least below 2 GHz. If one is damaged or otherwise
becomes defective, calibration erroriwill result.
0 to 2 GHz Loads -Male and Female Fixed Broadband Loads

Reflect Standards
Reflect Standards -Male and Female Short Circuits
Isolation Standards
isolation Standards -Male and Female Broadband Loads
Precision Adapters
In this TRL 2-Port calibration, the reflect standards are
identical short circuits with one connected to Port 1 and
one to Port 2.
The male short circuit and the female short circuit are
manufactured to tolerances that assure equivalent
responses. If one is damaged or otherwise becomes
defective, calibration errors will result. Errors will also
result if the open circuits are used in the procedure instead
of the short circuits (unless the calibration kit standard
assignment definition is changed).
The fixed loads used for the isolation part of the calibration
are the same broadband loads as used for the O-2 loads
measurement. Exact equivalent responses are not required
for this step.
Three precision adapters are included in this kit. Two are
always recommended for the 3.5 mm TRL 2-Port
measurement calibration. All three can be used in the
adapter removal calibration for measurement of nonin-
sertable devices. Complete performance verification
assumes use of the precision adapters in this kit as the test
ports.
MALE to FEMALE MALE to MALE FEMALE to FEMALE
Precision TRL test port adapters

Recession Limits The female receptacle recession and the male pin
recession, along with other mechanical specifications of
Port 1 and Port 2, must be within limits to meet complete
measurement specifications. The precision adapters
supplied in this kit are manufactured to metrology
standards in order to obtain the best measurement
accuracy specifications. If other connectors than these
precision adapters are used as the test ports, they must be
fully inspected. Using other than the highest quality
connectors as the test ports will reduce accuracy and
repeatability as well as possibly damaging the calibration
standards.
Precision Connectors For general use, any 3.5 mm precision slotless female con-
nector can be used for the female test port. The 3.5 mm
precision male connector used on the male end of these
adapters is always required for measurements between
7-32 GHz in order to connect the 7-32 GHz air line in this
kit. Any 3.5 mm precision male connector can be used at
frequencies less than 7 GHz.
hstdation Feature The precision adapter male connector has a special feature
to allow installation of the 7-32 air line.
GAP
_L
t
l Grasp the knurled sleeve and move the nut to its
extended position by pulling on it.
This is the position used for measurement of the 7-32 GHz
air line.
Extended Position
GAP
.Now move the sleeve forward and push the nut back
into its standard position.
This position is used to install the short air line, for
connecting the other calibration standards, and for
connecting the device under test.
Standard Position
9

/o
I
Torque Wrench
Tools At q
or ue wrench and spanner wrench are included in the
kit to loosen and tighten the connectors. The small torque
wrench is used for the 3.5 mm nuts. The large torque
wrench is used for the 20 mm nuts on the precision
adapters. It is included with the test set. The spanner
wrench is used to hold the precision adapter while using
the appropriate torque wrench to tighten the connection.
Also included is the hex wrench for tightening and
loosening the adapter anti-rotation clamp securing screws.
Spanner Wrench
When making connections, turn the nut on the device,
never turn the device itself. Turning the device will cause
excessive wear of both connector mating surfaces and
cause debris to collect in the female receptacle.
Torque Wrench (not included)
When making a connection:
Hex Wrench for AdapterAnti-Rotation Clamp
1. Carefully engage the male and female contacts, and
then tighten the nut by hand.
2. If necessary, use the spanner to hold one device
stationary against the direction of torque.
3. Hold the torque wrench with your thumb and index
finger near the end of the handle.
4. Tighten the connection until the ball in the handle
crests on the cam (as the handle begins to “break”,
releasing tension).
TIGHTEN WITH
TORQUE WRENCH
HOLD WITH
SPANNER WRENCH
It is not recommended or necessary to fully “break” the
handle of the torque wrench to reach the fully-specified
torque. As soon as the handle moves out of alignment, the
connection is properly torqued.
Reverse the above procedure to disconnect the connectors.
HANDLE BEGINS TO BREAK
( CORRECT POINT TO STOP )
HANDLE FULLY BROKEN
TORQUING
(NOT RECOMMENDED) DIRECTION
Using the Spanner and Torque Wrench Correct Torque Value
10

C H A I? T E R
T W 0
Performing a TRL Z-Port
Measurement Calibration
This example describes use of the HP 3.5 mm precision
calibration kit to measure an insertable device. When the
test device is insertable, the test ports can be connected
together to establish the Thru connection during
calibration.
The procedure used for performing any measurement
calibration is as follows: .
1. Clean and inspect all connectors.
2. Initiate measurement calibration procedure and
measure standards.
3. Verify the calibration.
4. Connect the device under test.
The rest of this section explains the above steps.
Electrostatic Discharge
wh
en
y
ou make connections to the network analyzer,
either directly to the test set port or indirectly through a
cable that is connected to the test set port, protect the
instrument against electrostatic discharge (ESD). Always
wear a grounding wrist strap connected to a conductive
bench mat when working near sensitive equipment.
The human body almost always has some static charge.
You are not usually aware of this charge because the
human threshold for the perception of a static discharge
shock is about 30 kV. ESD as low as 60 volts can damage
sensitive microcircuits.
Clean and Inspect
The accuracy of error-corrected measurements using the
network analyzer depends upon the quality of the
measurement calibration. In turn, the quality of the
calibration depends on the condition and cleanliness of the
test ports and calibration standards, and the operator’s skill
in making connections. Repeatability and accuracy are
improved by removing contaminants from mating surfaces
during cleaning.
Carefully inspect the following for cleanliness and
damage. Look for deformation of the male pin or the
female receptacle, and for metallic and organic residue on
the mating surfaces.
l Test set test ports
l Test port cables
l Precision adapters
l Calibration standards
l DUT Connectors
11

A low power magnifier, less than 6x, is adequate to inspect
the parts. Do not be concerned with minor defects such as
scratches visible only with the magnifier; these will
probably not affect performance. If inspection shows
moisture, oil, or other residue, clean the parts.
When examining the female connector, look at the inner
contact to see that the gripping fingers are not bent.
The greatest variable in the accuracy and repeatability for
these demanding measurements is the experience and
attention to detail of the person actually making the
connections. Before going on, examine all parts carefully.
SPRING FORCES INNER
INSERTED MALE PIN
Detail of Precision Slotless Female Connector
Cleaning
The parts must be clean in order to achieve best results.
Use isopropyl alcohol, dry air or nitrogen, and lint-free
swabs to remove contaminants.
In general, do not force cleaning materials into connector
parts and do not immerse the part in cleaning fluids. Just
moisten the swab and wipe the surface lightly. To dry the
part, use a dry swab or light pressure from a dry air or
nitrogen source.
Do not leave lint or particles of the swab in the connector.
If there is doubt about the condition of the connector, use
the connector gages to check the connector dimensions.
The same care should be used for all connectors, especially
the device under test.
12

Using Connector Gages
Before Connecting
Gaging is optional for the precision connectors in this
calibration kit if the male and female center conductors are
concentric and do not show physical damage.
However, due to the large range of dimensions found on
most DUT connectors, the DUT connectors must always be
inspected and gaged before connecting them to the
precision adapters. This is not usually a problem for the
DUT female connectors, but may be a problem for DUT
male connectors, especially the economical SMA and
SMA-compatible types.
BLACK %G
( RECESSION )
RED PLUS SIGN
(NOT USED)
LIMIT POINTER
DIAL INDICATOR
FEMALE 3.5 mm
CONNECTOR
GAGE
BLACK PLUS
SIGN
( PROTRUSION )
RED MINUS
SIGN
( NOT USED )
GAGE INCREMENT
0.0001 INCH
,r
’ ZERO SET KNOB
Connector Gage
13

Measurement Errors
The gage measures the pin depth (recession) of the
connectors. If the pin depth to too far negative, errors will
result from excessive air gap in the connection.
Connector Damage
If the pin depth is positive (protrusion), both mating
connectors will almost certainly be damaged.
Also, if the male pin diameter is greater than the maximum
3.5 mm specification, it will cause permanent damage to
the female receptacle. If you try to measure the pin depth
and the gage will not fit over the pin, it is an immediate
indication that the pin is too large and must not be
connected to the precision adapters. The male pin of the
DUT connector may fit into the gage and give a correct
measurement, but still be slightly too large for the
precision adapter female receptacle.
Repair and Replacement
In general, bent or deformed parts cannot be repaired in
the field. It is necessary to return the part to an HP service
center for repair or replacement. The air line center and
outer conductors must be replaced as a set. Refer to the
replaceable parts chapter in the service manual supplied
with the calibration kit for replacement part numbers and
ordering information.
--A-
RECESSION
Cross Section of Female Connector Showing Recession limits
RECESSION _) j_
Cross Section of Male Connector Showing Recession Limits
14

Configure Port 1 and Port 2
s everal configurations are possible, depending upon the
frequency range, available cables, operator convenience,
and DUT requirements. Following is an example hookup
using the two-cable set and two examples using a single
cable. The appropriate precision adapters are installed on
the ends of the cables and become Port 1 and Port 2.
TEST SET
PORT 1 TEST PORT
ANTI-ROTATION TEST SET
PORT 2
I
81 !~,
!il
ADAPTER
ANTI-ROTATION
PORT 1
PORT 1
PORT PORT
1
2
Dual Cable Setup
PORT 2
Single Cable, Port 1 Female
PORT 2
Single Cable, Port 1 Male
15

Install Test Port Return Cables
When all parts are ready for use, connect the test port
extension cables. To connect a cable to the test set:
Loosen the test port anti-rotation clamp securing screw
and slide the clamp over the cable far enough to provide
access to the cable connector.
Connect the cable to the test port and tighten using the
torque wrench.
Slide the clamp toward the port, aligning it so that the
flats on the clamp mate with flats around the test port.
Tighten the clamp securing screw. This clamp keeps the
cable from becoming loose from the test set connector.
Install Precision Adapters
T
o install the precision adapters and adapter anti-rotation
clamp:
. Connect the adapter to the cable, tighten finger tight, and
then use the spanner and the torque wrench to achieve
the final torque.
l Loosen the adapter anti-rotation clamp securing screws
and slide the clamp over the adapter. Align the clamp so
that it can grip both the cable connector body and the
adapter body. Tighten the clamp securing screws. The
screw tightening order is not important.
The adapter anti-rotation clamp assures that the TRL
adapter does not become loose during calibration and
measurement.
l Connect the second TRL adapter and its anti-rotation
clamp to serve as Port 2.
PORT 1 PORT 2
Two Cable Setup with AZ1 Components Connected
16

Air Line Frequency COVerage
This illustration shows the frequency range covered by the
air line and fixed loads for the Lines part of the TRL 2-Port
calibration procedure. If measuring over the entire
frequency range, measure the 7-32 Line first, then the 2-7
Line, then the O-2 Loads. If measuring over a reduced
frequency range, only those standards for that frequency
range need to be measured. For example, if you are testing
over the 3-22 GHz range, only the 7-32 Line and the 2-7
Line must be measured.
The standard label for the 2-7 Line would indicate that its
data is valid only from 2 to 7 GHz. However, you may
choose to use data from the 2-7 Line down to the 1 GHz by
simply not measuring the O-2 Loads. If the O-2 Loads are
measured after the 2-7 Line, the O-2 Loads data will replace
data from the 2-7 Line.
45 1
27 32
MHZ GHz GHz GHz GHz
F1
l-l i-l l-l
Ir
Jl
Ll u u II
aEl-I
2-7 LINE
m-m
7-32 LINE
O-2 LOADS
Frequency Coverage for Line Part ofMeasurement Calibration
Load Calibration Kit Definition
To begin measurement calibration, first load the calibration
kit definition from tape or disk.
Press:
TAPE/DISC
STORAGE is TAPE
LOAD
CAL KIT 1-2
CAL KIT 1
FILE 1
When the calibration kit definition is loaded, the CAL 1
softkey label will read 3.5 mm C. 1.
17

Measure Standards
N
ow perform the TRL 2-Port measurement calibration
procedure using the HP 85052C 3.5 mm Precision
Calibration Kit.
Note: The standards are measured in the order: Thru,
Reflect, Line, Isolation in order to connect the load
standards just once.
Press:
CAL
CAL 1
TRL 2-PORT
l Connect the TRL male adapter (Port 1) to the TRL female
adapter (Port 2).
l Press THRU. The HP 8510 makes six measurements; they
are S,,, S,,, S,,, S,,, and two specially redefined user
parameters.
l Connect the Short circuit to Port 1.
. Press S,, REFLECT SHORT. S,, is measured.
S,, Reflect Short Standard
l Connect the Short circuit to Port 2.
l Press S,, REFLECT SHORT. S,, is measured.
l Press LINES.
S,, Reflect Short Standard
18

When Stop Frequency is Greater than 7 GHz
If the stop frequency is greater than 7 GHz, install the 7-32
GHz air line as follows:
l
Move the Port 1 nut to its standard position and carefully
insert the air line into the male connector using the
installation tool.
Insert Air Line
l
Squeeze the installation tool (closing the slot) to release
the center conductor. Then pull the tool away from the
connector, leaving the outer and the center conductors in
place.
Sqeeze Tool to Release, then Pull
GOOD BAD
-IL-
GAP
l
Examine the outer and center conductors to see that they
are in place and concentric. If the center conductor is not
centered, use the installation tool to align it.
Check Concentricity
l
Move the adapter nut to its extended position.
Extended Position with Air Line Installed
19

TURN n
HOLD
. Carefully align and engage the Port 2 female contact
with the Port 1 male contact.
l Tighten finger tight, then use the spanner and torque
wrenches to achieve the final torque.
Connect Port 2
l Press 7-32 LINE. The HP 8510 makes six measurements.
All frequencies of the current range are measured, but only
data from 7 to 32 GHz is used to compute error coefficients.
To remove the 7-32 GHz air line:
l Loosen the Port 1 nut, and then carefully move the Port 2
adapter away.
Disconnect Port 2
l Move the adapter nut to its standard position.
Standard Position with Air Line Installed
l Examine the outer and center conductors to see that they
are in place.
l Carefully press the insertion tool onto the connector.
Connect the Insertion Tool
20