Vector Corrections for an Automated Power Sensor Calibration System

In an ideal measurement system, all error sources have been identified and eliminated. The system described here was based in error analysis so that these sources would be minimized. The result is a highly accurate automated system to characterize thermistor, diode, and thermoelectric Type N coaxial RF/microwave power sensors. The system described operates fiom 50 MHz to 18 GHz. Methods to extend this to both higher and lower fiequencies and to other types of connectors will be discussed. Finally, a technique to verify system performance will be shown.