Traceability via the internet for microwave measurements using vector network analyzers

Abstract

The Internet has been utilized to provide highly efficient and cost-effective measurement services using vector network analyzers (VNAs). Remote calibration and measurement using VNAs from two of the leading instrument manufacturers has been achieved with direct access to primary national measurement standards and procedures, via the Internet, for microwave frequencies in the range 45 MHz to 110 GHz.Index Terms-Internet calibration, internet-enabled metrology, microwave measurements, network analyzer calibration, traceability using the internet, vector network analyzer (VNA).

Generic System for Remote Testing and Calibration of Measuring Instruments: Security Architecture

“…The development of automated measurement instruments, evolution of the computer networks and growing number of quality standards in the industrial and research fields in recent years has led to the realization of internet-enabled calibration systems, specifically for industrial applications [1] [2].…”

“…Internet-enabled metrology as a wider concept is a term that covers the use of telecommunication systems to provide convenient access to a range of measurement and calibration services [1].…”

Remote calibration system for frequency based on in-place benchmark

“…With the integration of measurement, communication, and computer technology, remote calibration has become a research hotspot [2]. At present, typical research includes a remote calibration system concerning a remote automated analyzer of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in the UK [3], remote data acquisition card of the SIT Calibration Center [4], polarization neutron diffractometer in PTB [5], large-flow gas flowmeter in CSTL, multifunctional calibration apparatus in EEEL, large size ion emitter in PL, and time calibration in TAF of NIST [6]. The remote calibration modes above are similar, which convey benchmarks to where calibrated facilities have been in; a superior lab can then calibrate the field devices through a network to guarantee the valve traceability of measurement results.…”

Internet enabled maintenance of an electrical multifunctional calibrator

“…One is the automatic calibration of vector network analysers using reference precision components that only need very infrequent calibration, and an Internet control system. Here the advantage mostly lies in the analyses of the results, where complicated calculations and corrections have to be performed [5,6]. In a second example, which is also taken up by NIST, a multifunction electrical calibrator is calibrated via Internet using a stable, high resolution, digital multimeter as a transfer of traceability between the reference laboratory and user.…”