Calibration Comparison Method for Vector Network Analyzers

We present a technique for comparing the scattering parameter measurements made with respect to two vector network analyzer calibrations. This method determines the worst-case measurement error bounds on any calibration from a benchmark calibration, assuming the two are similar to first order. We illustrate our method by examining the differences between an open-short-load-thru (OSLT) and a sliding load calibration, both of which are available commercially on a variety of vector network analyzers.