An instrument calibration is a process where the analyzer performance is measured to ensure that it operates within specifications. If any performance parameter does not conform to the published specifications, adjustments are made to bring the performance into conformance.
Over time, the active components in the analyzer age and the performance may degrade or drift.
To ensure that the analyzer is performing to the published specifications, you should have an instrument calibration performed periodically.
It is your responsibility to determine the calibration period which best meets your requirements. However, a 12 to 18 month calibration cycle is appropriate for most users.
There are two things to consider: performance drift and connector wear.
The instrument specifications are set to consider the performance drift that may occur over a 24 month period. Therefore, getting the instrument calibrated at 24 month intervals ensures that the analyzer maintains performance within the operating specifications. If you need the analyzer to maintain more consistent operation, you may want to have the instrument calibrated more often than the recommended 24-month interval.
Connector wear is a bigger factor and depends on the number of connections that are made. The test ports become noticeably worn after 500 to 700 connections. This could represent about 12 months with average use. With more frequent connections, the calibration cycle should be sooner. You can extend the time between calibrations and thereby save money by using connector savers and by performing proper Connector Care.
To get the instrument calibrated, send it to one of the Keysight Technologies service centers. See Technical Support.
To perform the instrument calibration yourself, you must have the following required items:
Instrument Calibration Test Equipment
Performance Test Software
The following types of instrument calibration are available from Keysight Technologies at the time of initial order:
Standard |
Includes a certificate of calibration stating the instrument has been calibrated and is operating within the published specifications. |
Option 1A7 |
Available ONLY at the initial shipment. Includes the test data and measurement uncertainties from the calibration and the certificate of calibration stating the instrument has been calibrated using a process in compliance with ISO 17025 and is operating within the published specifications. |
The following types of instrument calibration are available from Keysight Technologies service center:
Keysight Calibration |
Includes the test data from the calibration and the certificate of calibration, stating the instrument has been calibrated and is operating within the published specifications. |
ANSI Z540 Calibration |
Includes the test data from the calibration and the certificate of calibration, stating the instrument has been calibrated using a process in compliance with ANSI Z540.1 and is operating within the published specifications. |
ISO 17025 Calibration |
Includes the test data from the calibration and the certificate of calibration, stating the instrument has been calibrated using a process in compliance with ISO 17025 and is operating within the published specifications. |
For more information on these options, visit www.Keysight.com/find/calibration.