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Agilent PNA Performance Verification

The PNA's performance can be verified as a stand-alone instrument using Performance Tests or as part of a "system" using System Verification. These two methods are described below.

Performance Tests

A series of tests measure the PNA's performance against the published Technical Specifications. Passing all of these tests allows the PNA to be fully certified as a stand-alone instrument for all of its intended measurements.

Two test systems have been developed for running the PNA performance tests. Each test system executes the same performance tests, but they are run on different platforms. This allows the user to select the test solution which best meets their needs. In each solution, a thorough set of data is collected and archived. However, the amount of data the user can access and include in the final report is dependent on the option purchased.

An Agilent Inclusive Calibration report includes the measured data and the pass/fail specification limits. An ANSI Z540 and ISO 17025 standards-compliant calibration includes the measured data, the pass/fail specification limits, and the measurement uncertainty of the test system used to collect the data.

The Test Management Environment (TME) runs the performance tests on an external, Windows-based PC and communicates with the PNA via a GPIB cable. The test results are stored in a database on the computer, from which test results are generated. TME is packaged and sold by Agilent under the N7800A model number. The PNA Performance Test Software which works within TME is packaged under the N7840A model number. This software is designed for use on a high volume calibration bench. Installing the software and configuring it for use requires a significant initial time investment. It is not optimized for occasional use.

The Embedded Test System (ETS) runs the performance tests from within the PNA firmware and does not require an external PC. ETS is activated by purchasing and activating options 897 or 898. Option 897 enables Agilent Inclusive Calibration data reporting. Option 898 enables ANSI Z540 and ISO 17025 standards-compliant data reporting. The test results are compiled into a PDF test report file on the PNA. This file is retrieved from the PNA by the user for archival.

TME supports the PNA and PNA-L products. ETS supports the PNA, PNA-L and PNA-X products. For additional information, refer to the links to the right.

System Verification

The System Verification process validates that the network analyzer, test cables, and calibration standards are able to work together as a "system" to measure common passive devices to the accuracy of the published PNA "system" specifications. After a full 2-Port calibration is applied to the PNA, a variety of standards from an Agilent Verification Kit are measured, and the results are compared with factory measurements. This process does not guarantee the specified performance of individual components of the system, only the system as a whole.

The System Verification process is guided by software which is built into the PNA firmware. No special software or external PC is required. For a detailed list of the calibration kits, ECal modules, verification kits, and test cables which are supported by this software, please see the PNA Help. For the latest software version, refer to the links on the right.

Embedded Test System (ETS)

Test Management Environment (TME)

System Verification

    Version A.04.90 -- 17 Nov 2009
  • sysver.exe
    Place in C:\Program Files\Agilent\Network Analyzer\Service\
  • PNAUncert.dll
    Place in C:\Windows\System32\