6

Calibration

Introduction

This chapter describes the calibration procedures for the Agilent 6050A and 6051A Electronic Load mainframe and its associated modules. Both "A" modules (Agilent Models 60501A-60504A) and "B" modules (Agilent Models 60501B- 60507B) are covered in separate procedures. The Electronic Load should be calibrated annually, or whenever certain repairs are made (refer to the Service Manual). Calibration is accomplished entirely in software by sending calibration constants to the Electronic Load via the GPIB. This means that the Electronic Load can be calibrated without removing its cover, or removing it from its cabinet if rack mounted.

Each module has three DACs that must be calibrated - a main DAC, a readback DAC, and a transient level DAC. Six ranges must be calibrated for both the main DAC and the transient DAC - a voltage range, a low resistance range, a middle resistance range, a high resistance range, a low current range, and a high current range. The main DAC requires two operating points to be calibrated for each range - a high point and a low point. The transient DAC requires only the high operating point to be calibrated for each range; it uses the same low operating point as the main DAC. Note that the transient level for the middle and high resistance ranges is lower than the high level of the main DAC.

The readback DAC is only calibrated for the high current range and the voltage range. It also requires two operating points to be calibrated for each range - a high point and a low point. For the sake of convenience you can use the same values to calibrate the main and the readback DAC, but you could also use different values to optimize accuracy.

Note

All calibration must be done when the Electronic Load is at room temperature.

Equipment Required

Table 6-1 lists the equipment required for calibration. Note that less accurate and less expensive current shunts may be used than those listed, but the accuracy to which current and resistance programming as well as readback, can be checked must be reduced accordingly. Figure 6-1 illustrates how the calibration equipment should be connected.

Figure 6-1. Calibration Equipment Setup

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Agilent Technologies 6051A, 6050A manual Equipment Required, Calibration
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6051A, 6050A specifications

Agilent Technologies has long been a leader in providing high-performance test and measurement solutions, and the 6050A and 6051A models exemplify this commitment to quality and innovation. The 6050A and 6051A are versatile signal generators that cater to a diverse range of applications, including research and development, manufacturing, and education, making them essential tools in laboratories and production environments.

The Agilent 6050A is a high-performance RF signal generator known for its frequency range capabilities, which span from 100 kHz to 20 GHz. It offers exceptional phase noise performance and low harmonic distortion, making it ideal for applications that require high signal integrity. The device supports various modulation formats, including AM, FM, and pulse modulation, allowing users to generate a wide range of test signals to simulate real-world conditions.

The 6051A builds upon the robust features of the 6050A with enhanced specifications and additional functionalities. It features a larger frequency modulation bandwidth, pushing the envelope for applications requiring more complex signal generation. The 6051A showcases a superior output power range, ensuring that test signals can be reliably produced at varying power levels. This model also includes advanced output control options that allow for precise signal manipulation, making it particularly suited for testing amplifiers and other RF components.

Both models share core technologies that ensure reliable performance, such as direct digital synthesis (DDS) and phase-locked loop (PLL) architectures. These technologies contribute to the exceptional frequency stability and accuracy that engineers and scientists have come to rely on. Additionally, the user-friendly interface integrated into both models simplifies operation and allows for quick configuration changes, facilitating efficient research and testing workflows.

With comprehensive connectivity options, including GPIB, USB, and Ethernet, the 6050A and 6051A can easily integrate into automated test environments. Their reliability, performance, and flexibility make them a perfect choice for those looking to advance their testing capabilities, whether in academic research, product development, or quality assurance in manufacturing.

In summary, the Agilent Technologies 6050A and 6051A signal generators are powerful tools designed to meet the demands of modern RF testing. Their advanced features, paired with Agilent’s reputation for quality and precision, make them invaluable assets in any engineering or research portfolio. Whether you require sophisticated signal generation for prototype testing or educational purposes, these models will deliver the performance needed to support your objectives.
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