Default Versus User-Defined Calibration; When To Use A Default Calibration; When To Perform A User-Defined Calibration - HP 8712ES User Manual

Calibrating for Increased Measurement Accuracy
Default versus User-Defined Calibration
Default versus User-Defined Calibration
The analyzer features factory-installed default calibrations that use
vector error correction, so that measurements can be made on many
devices without performing a user-defined calibration. These default
calibrations are quick and convenient, but not as accurate as
user-defined calibrations. This section shows you how to determine if
your test setup is compatible with a default calibration or requires a
user-defined calibration.

When to Use a Default Calibration

• Your test doesn't require the best accuracy possible.
• Your test device is connected directly to the analyzer's output port
with no adapters or intervening cables.
If your test setup meets these conditions, you can use the default
calibration rather than perform a user-defined calibration. However,
without a user-defined calibration, the analyzer is not guaranteed to
meet its published measurement port specifications.
When to Perform a User-Defined Calibration
• You want the best accuracy possible.
• You are adapting to a different connector type or impedance.
• You are connecting a cable between the test device and the analyzer's
output port.
• You are measuring across a narrow frequency span or using an
electrically long device.
• You are connecting any attenuator or other such device on the input
or output of the test device.
6-8 ES User's Guide