Use, Maintenance, and Care of the Devices

Visual Inspection

Visual Inspection

Visual inspection and, if necessary, cleaning should be done every time a connection is made. Metal particles from the connector threads may fall into the connector when it is disconnected. One connection made with a dirty or damaged connector can damage both connectors beyond repair.

In some cases, magnification is necessary to see damage on a connector; a magnifying device with a magnification of ³10´ is recommended. However, not all defects that are visible only under magnification will affect the electrical performance of the connector. Use the following guidelines when evaluating the integrity of a connector.

Look for Obvious Defects and Damage First

Examine the connectors first for obvious defects and damage: badly worn plating on the connector interface, deformed threads, or bent, broken, or misaligned center conductors. Connector nuts should move smoothly and be free of burrs, loose metal particles, and rough spots.

What Causes Connector Wear?

Connector wear is caused by connecting and disconnecting the devices. The more use a connector gets, the faster it wears and degrades. The wear is greatly accelerated when connectors are not kept clean, or are connected incorrectly.

Connector wear eventually degrades performance of the device. Calibration devices should have a long life if their use is on the order of a few times per week. Replace devices with worn connectors.

The test port connectors on the network analyzer test set may have many connections each day, and are therefore more subject to wear. It is recommended that an adapter be used as a test port saver to minimize the wear on the test set’s test port connectors.

Inspect the Mating Plane Surfaces

Flat contact between the connectors at all points on their mating plane surfaces is required for a good connection. See Figure 2-1 on page 2-3. Look especially for deep scratches or dents, and for dirt and metal particles on the connector mating plane surfaces. Also look for signs of damage due to excessive or uneven wear or misalignment.

Light burnishing of the mating plane surfaces is normal, and is evident as light scratches or shallow circular marks distributed more or less uniformly over the mating plane surface. Other small defects and cosmetic imperfections are also normal. None of these affect electrical or mechanical performance.

If a connector shows deep scratches or dents, particles clinging to the mating plane surfaces, or uneven wear, clean and inspect it again. Devices with damaged connectors should be discarded. Determine the cause of damage before connecting a new, undamaged connector in the same configuration.

85054B

3-3

Page 20 Page 22
Page 21
Image 21
Agilent Technologies 85054-90049 Visual Inspection, Look for Obvious Defects and Damage First, What Causes Connector Wear?
Page 20 Page 22

85054-90049 specifications

Agilent Technologies 85054-90049 is a high-performance calibration kit designed for vector network analysis across a wide range of frequencies. This kit is an indispensable tool for engineers and technicians involved in the measurement and characterization of RF components, ensuring accuracy and reliability in their testing processes.

One of the main features of the 85054-90049 calibration kit is its ability to provide accurate calibration across multiple frequency bands, including microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. This versatility is crucial for professionals who work with different types of RF devices, such as amplifiers, filters, and antennas. The kit supports a frequency range of up to 67 GHz, making it suitable for a variety of applications in the telecommunications and aerospace industries.

The calibration kit utilizes precision standards and adapters that ensure low insertion loss and minimal reflection. These components are engineered to provide high stability and repeatability in measurements, which is vital for maintaining quality control in manufacturing processes or during research and development stages. The accuracy of the calibration is further enhanced by the materials used in the construction of the connectors and adapters, which are designed to minimize signal degradation.

Another key technology employed in the Agilent 85054-90049 is its rugged design, intended to withstand the demands of laboratory environments as well as field applications. The kit is portable, allowing engineers to perform precision measurements wherever needed without compromising on performance. Its compact design and durable case make it an ideal choice for field applications.

The 85054-90049 calibration kit is also compatible with Agilent's range of vector network analyzers, creating a seamless user experience. The calibration process, supported by comprehensive software tools, is designed to be user-friendly, allowing technicians to perform calibrations quickly and accurately. In addition, the kit comes with detailed documentation that includes calibration procedures, ensuring that even those new to RF testing can follow along with ease.

In summary, the Agilent Technologies 85054-90049 is a state-of-the-art calibration kit that combines high performance, compatibility, and durability. Its advanced features cater to various RF testing needs, making it a vital resource for professionals in industries where precision measurements are of utmost importance. Whether in laboratories or field settings, this calibration kit stands out as a benchmark for quality in RF and microwave measurement applications.
Top Page Image Contents