1 mW Power Reference Level Performance Test

This test applies to the following models:

  • P-Series Power Meters:

    N1911A

    N1912A

    N8262A

  • EPM-Series Power Meters:

    N1913B

    N1914B

    N1913A

    N1914A

The 1mW Power Reference is used for the calibration of 8480 Series & E-Series power sensors, and is traceable to national standards.

This test uses an N8482A power sensor to transfer the power measured on an accurately calibrated power meter to the DUT reference.

Although allowed as alternative models, E4419A and E4419B power meters are not recommended as test equipment for this test due to higher than desired maximum measurement uncertainty which may cause failures.

1 mW Reference Output Power Calibration Data

Prior to running the 1 mW Power Reference Level Performance Test and 1 mW Power Reference Adjustment, you are required to enter the 1 mW reference output power and the calibration uncertainty of the power meter used as the test equipment in the performance test and adjustment mentioned. This calibration information is required rather than the default information to be able to proceed with this test and adjustment.

Below is a sample of a measurement report from a Keysight lab. Note that these are sample values and reports may look different from calibration labs other than Keysight.

When the 1 mW Power Reference Level test and adjustment starts, TME will show the Enter Calibration Information dialog. Enter the reference output power and uncertainty values from the report into the dialog.

Related Adjustment

1 mW Power Reference Adjustment

Required Equipment

Test Equipment

Recommended Model Number1

Power Meter2

N1914B

Power Sensor

N8482A

  1. Refer to the main Required Equipment list for alternative models.

  2. The reference power port of the power meter must be calibrated, traceable to a national standard, to at least ±0.25% accuracy. It is assumed that this represents an end-of-period accuracy. Additionally, it is assumed that this represents a 95% confidence (k=2) coverage factor.

    It is necessary for the laboratory that executes this procedure to maintain this level of end-of-period accuracy. The calibrated reference accuracy drift rate is expected to be 0.005% per 6 months.

    This level of accuracy may only be achievable by a national standards laboratory, such as National Physical Laboratory (NPL) ( http://www.npl.co.uk/) in the United Kingdom, or National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (http://www.nist.gov/index.html) in the United States.

    Although allowed as alternative models, E4419A and E4419B power meters are not recommended due to higher than desired maximum measurement uncertainty which may cause failures.

Connection Setups

Connections on power meters with rear panel options will differ than those in the illustrations below. Refer to the rear panel of the power meter for connector identification labels.

Power Meter Calibration

 

1 mW Power Reference Level Test Setup, EPM and P-Series Power Meter

 

1 mW Power Reference Level Test Setup, N8262A