Gaging Connectors; Connector Gage Accuracy; When To Gage Connectors - Agilent Technologies 85057B User's And Service Manual

Gaging Connectors

The gages available from Agilent Technologies are intended for preventive maintenance
and troubleshooting purposes only. They are effective in detecting excessive center
conductor protrusion or recession, and conductor damage on DUTs, test accessories, and
the calibration kit devices. Do not use the gages for precise pin depth measurements.

Connector Gage Accuracy

The connector gages are only capable of performing coarse measurements. They do not
provide the degree of accuracy necessary to precisely measure the pin depth of the kit
devices. This is partially due to the repeatability uncertainties that are associated with the
measurement. Only the factory—through special gaging processes and electrical testing—
can accurately verify the mechanical characteristics of the devices.
With proper technique, the gages are useful in detecting gross pin depth errors on device
connectors. To achieve maximum accuracy, random errors must be reduced by taking the
average of at least three measurements having different gage orientations on the
connector. Even then, the resultant average can be in error by as much as ±0.0001 inch due
to systematic (biasing) errors usually resulting from worn gages and gage masters. As the
gages undergo more use, the systematic errors can become more significant in the accuracy
of the measurement.
NOTE When measuring pin depth, the measured value (resultant average of three
or more measurements) contains measurement uncertainty and is not
necessarily the true value. Always compare the measured value with the
observed pin depth limits (which account for measurement uncertainties) in
Table 2-2 on page 2-4

When to Gage Connectors

Gage a connector at the following times:
• Prior to using a device for the first time, record the pin depth measurement so that it
can be compared with future readings. This serves as a good troubleshooting tool when
you suspect damage may have occurred to the device.
• If either visual inspection or electrical performance suggests that the connector
interface may be out of typical range (due to wear or damage, for example).
• If a verification device is used by someone else or on another system or piece of
equipment.
• Initially, after every 100 connections, and after that, as often as experience indicates.
85057B
to evaluate the condition of device connectors.
Use, Maintenance, and Care of the Devices
Gaging Connectors
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