FAQ

Using the data

What is on the USB stick?

A Touchstone file for each standard (.s1p for Open, Short and Load; .s2p for adapters and Thrus) and the fitted model coefficients for each one.

My VNA does not accept Touchstone files. Can I still use the kit?

Yes. Enter the supplied coefficients (C0 to C3 or L0 to L3, delay, loss, Z0) in your VNA's cal-kit editor exactly as you would for a Keysight 85033-series kit. You get most of the accuracy of the data-based method.

Which software supports data-based standards?

LibreVNA-GUI, NanoVNA-QT, scikit-rf and most modern bench VNAs from Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz and Copper Mountain. If yours is not listed, ask.

What frequency range is the data?

Base and Economy 3.5mm kits: to 8.5 GHz. Precision: to 9 GHz. Add the 20 GHz Measurement Upgrade to any order to have every 3.5mm standard in that order measured to 20 GHz.

Connectors

Are 3.5mm and SMA compatible?

Mechanically yes, they mate. 3.5mm is an air-dielectric precision connector; SMA uses PTFE dielectric and is a lower-tolerance interface. Our 3.5mm standards are chosen so the calibration reference is better than the SMA ports you will typically be connecting to.

Male or female?

Named for the standard itself. Female VNA port: male kit. Male port, or a cable with a female end: female kit. See Which kit do I need?

Why do some kits include adapters?

To do a 2-port calibration you need a Thru. Our adapters are individually measured and ship with their own S2P data and delay, so they double as characterised Thru standards for insertable and non-insertable setups.

Verification

How do I check that my calibration worked?

Calibrate, then measure the SMA verification load or the 10 dB attenuator and overlay the supplied data file. Agreement means the calibration is good. Disagreement tells you something is wrong before it costs you a day.

Ordering and shipping

Where do you ship?

Worldwide from New Zealand. See Shipping and tariffs.

USA orders: will I get a customs bill?

No. All USA shipments are Delivered Duty Paid. The US tariff on New Zealand goods is included in the USD price you see, and there is nothing further to pay on delivery.

Can I buy in USD?

Yes. Select your country at the top of the page. Customers outside New Zealand are shown USD prices.

Do you provide a GST invoice?

Yes, on every order. New Zealand orders are priced inclusive of GST.

Is there a calibration certificate?

Every kit ships with its own individual measurement data, which is more useful than a certificate for most work. Contact us if you have a specific documentation requirement.