VNA Calibration Components With Transponder Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual calibration of software-controlled vector network analyzers (VNAs) is error-prone due to the risk of mixing up calibration components, while automatic electronic calibration modules are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
Equipping each calibration component with a transponder containing an identification number and a non-volatile memory for tracking usage, and using a wireless interface in the VNA to read and write data, ensuring accurate and efficient calibration without the need for manual handling or expensive electronic modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual calibration is used, then calibration components can be used, but the risk of mixing up components and operational errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration component automatically identifies itself through the transponder with unique identification data, and the VNA automatically reads this data via the wireless interface to determine the correct calibration type, eliminating the need for manual selection and reducing human error
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by reading the transponder data from the calibration component and using this information to automatically configure the calibration process, ensuring the correct calibration parameters are applied without manual intervention
2Reliability
If electronic calibration modules are used, then calibration accuracy is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using expensive electronic calibration modules, the patent creates a digital copy of the calibration component's identity and characteristics through the transponder with unique identification data and stored calibration parameters, which can be read wirelessly without requiring complex electronic hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic calibration module with a wireless communication system that uses a simple transponder and wireless interface to transfer calibration data, eliminating the need for complex electronic calibration hardware while maintaining accuracy
3Productivity
If wireless interface is used for calibration, then calibration speed is improved, but HF interference may affect the calibration process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration process into two distinct phases: first, the wireless interface reads the transponder identification data and stores it in a protected memory area; second, the calibration execution occurs in a separate phase where the wireless interface is deactivated to prevent HF interference during the actual calibration measurements
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for largely error-proof and cost-effective calibration of a vector network analyzer (VNA) by connecting calibration components is characterized by the fact that each calibration component (2.1 to 2.n) comprises a transponder (4) with a non-volatile memory which contains as unchanging data at least the type of component and an individual identification number and as variable data at least the number of calibration operations carried out with this calibration component, and that the VNA has a wireless interface (3) for reading at least the unchanging data of the respective calibration component and for incrementing the stored number of calibration operations carried out with this calibration component.