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Support for the X-WR90-3f X-band WR90/ WG16 waveguide calibration kit

WR90 X-band waveguide calibration kit

Introduction

The X-WR90-3f is a recently introduced calibration kit for WR90 / WG16 / R100 waveguide at X-band (8.2 to 12.4 GHz). This support page will be expanded later to cover this recently introduced model in more details. Sorry it is so brief, but we will provide full support by email and phone, to enable you to use the X-WR90-3f waveguide calibration kit with almost any vector network analyzer capable of operation at X-band, and capable of waveguide calibration.

The VNA calibration kit includes all the components necessary to calibrate a VNA when the test ports are connected via cables and adapters to WR90 waveguide, which is also known as WG16 and R100. The kit includes a λ/4 (quarter wave) shim/spacer, a flush short, and a load. All components are new. Note, that no 'open' standard is supplied, because it is impossible to make a useful waveguide open, so an offset short is used. This provides a reflection standard which is approximately 180° different in phase from the flush short.

Single port waveguide calibration (S11 or S22)

The following process is required for a single-port calibration.

  1. Enter the calibration kit coefficients into the VNA. For many models of VNA, Kirkby Microwave will be able to supply a file readable by the VNA. For other VNAs, the data will need to be entered into the VNA. The only information needed is the delay (or thickness) of the shim, the TE10 cutoff frequency, and the width/height ratio of the waveguide. The thickness of the shim will be measured prior to shipment.
  2. Connect the VNA to a waveguide to coaxial transition, either directly, or with a cable.
  3. Select the calibration routine in the VNA, and when prompted use the following calibration standards, talking care to tighten the devices properly using 8-32 screws, nuts and washers (not supplied).
  4. Remove the calibration components and attach the DUT

Calibration for all 4 S-parameters (S11, S21, S12 and S22)

For a two port calibration, the above should be repeated at the second port, then the two waveguide transitions joined for a zero length thru.

Kirkby Microwave Ltd is registered in England and Wales, company number 08914892. Registered office: Stokes Hall Lodge, Burnham Rd, Althorne, Essex, CM3 6DT.