Using, Inspecting, And Cleaning Rf Connectors - Agilent Technologies E5500A User Manual

20 Connector Care and Preventive Maintenance

Using, Inspecting, and Cleaning RF Connectors

Using, Inspecting, and Cleaning RF Connectors
Repeatability
RF Cable and
Connector Care
20-2 E5500 Phase Noise Measurement System Version A.02.00
Taking proper care of cables and connectors will protect your
system's ability to make accurate measurements. One of the main
sources of measurement inaccuracy can be caused by improperly
made connections or by dirty or damaged connectors.
The condition of system connectors affects measurement accuracy
and repeatability. Worn, out-of-tolerance, or dirty connectors
degrade these measurement performance characteristics. For more
information on connector care, please refer to the documentation
that came with your calibration kit.
If you make two identical measurements with your system, the
differences should be so small that they will not affect the value of
the measurement. Repeatability (the amount of similarity from one
measurement to another of the same type) can be affected by:
G Dirty or damaged connectors
G
Connections that have been made without using proper torque
techniques (this applies primarily when connectors in the system
have been disconnected, then reconnected)
CAUTION:
This system contains instruments and devices that are
static-sensitive. Always take proper electrostatic precautions before touching
the center conductor of any connector, or the center conductor of any cable that
is connected to any system instrument.
Handle Agilent Technologies instruments and devices only when wearing a
grounded wrist or foot strap. When handling devices on a work bench, make
sure you are working on an anti-static worksurface.
Connectors are the most critical link in a precision measurement
system. These devices are manufactured to extremely precise
tolerances and must be used and maintained with care to protect the
measurement accuracy and repeatability of your system.
To extend the life of your cables or connectors:
Document Part No. E5500-90024 Ed. 1.0