Inline Calibration Module Daisy-Chain Bus Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
The calibration of network analyzers in complex measurement environments, such as those for satellites, is cumbersome due to the complexity of cabling and manual entry of serial numbers for multiple calibration modules, leading to time-consuming and costly processes.
Innovation Solution
An inline calibration module with switchable calibration impedances and a serial bus interface for controlling multiple modules in a daisy-chain configuration, reducing wiring effort and enabling precise calibration through point-to-point connection to a central control device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a star-shaped bus connection is used to control multiple calibration modules, then each module can be individually addressed, but the cabling effort and system complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple calibration modules are connected in a daisy-chain configuration where each module shares a common control bus. This merges the control paths into a single linear structure, eliminating the need for separate point-to-point connections from the central control unit to each module, thereby reducing cabling complexity while maintaining individual addressability through serial communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The control bus is designed as a universal communication interface that can address and control multiple different calibration modules through a single infrastructure. This multi-functional bus structure allows the same physical connection to serve multiple modules simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity while preserving individual module control capabilities.
2Reliability
If manual entry of serial numbers is required for each calibration module, then module identification is achieved, but the calibration process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Each calibration module automatically transmits its serial number and identification data through the control bus interface without requiring manual entry. The module performs self-identification by sending its unique identifier to the central control unit, which automatically reads and stores it, thereby eliminating time-consuming manual data entry while ensuring reliable module identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements an automatic feedback mechanism where calibration modules transmit their identification information through the control bus, and the central control unit receives and processes this information automatically. This feedback loop eliminates manual intervention, reducing calibration setup time while maintaining accurate module identification through automated data exchange.
3Measurement precision
If calibration modules are placed in a special test environment, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the cabling and setup effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system is segmented into modular calibration modules that can be independently connected in a daisy-chain configuration within the test environment. This segmentation allows each module to be individually positioned and connected through a simple linear bus structure, reducing the overall cabling complexity required to achieve accurate measurements in specialized test environments.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an inline calibration module (10) for dynamic scatter parameter test system calibration in a test environment, comprising at least three independent, switchable calibration impedances (11, 12, 13) each with a predetermined impedance value (Z1, Z2, Z3), each designating an independent calibration standard, an output (15) configured to couple the calibration module to a device under test, and a control input (16) configured as a serial bus interface for coupling the calibration module to an external control device for controlling the module. The present invention further relates to a program-controlled device and a calibration and measurement system.