EZ Form Cable’s RF and Microwave Measurement Capabilities

Characteristic Impedance (Zo)
The impedance of all cable is measured using Tektronix Time Domain Reflectometers (TDRs), in conjunction with a calibrated 50 ohm airline. Measurement resolution is 0.1 ohms. The TDR is also used for bulk continuity checks and as a fault locator for cable and assemblies.

Return Loss (VSWR) and Insertion Loss (Attenuation)
Return Loss (VSWR) and Insertion Loss (Attenuation) is measured using Agilent Network Analyzers (PNA’s), with test frequencies up to 40 GHz. Laser printers are used for graphical hardcopy output upon request.

Time Delay
Agilent PNA’s are used for Time Delay measurements. Printed hard copy data is also available upon request. Standard delay tolerances are +/- 1ns, and can be held as tight as +/- 20ps if required.

Phase Matching
Agilent PNA’s are used for Phase measurements. Printed hard copy data is also available upon request. Standard phase match tolerance is +/- one degree per GHz, with tighter tolerances as required.

Capacitance
Cable capacitance is measured using an HP 4274 LCR meter. Measurement resolution is 0.1 picofarads.

Dielectric Withstanding Voltage (Breakdown)
A Hipotronics HD 100 HiPot Tester is used to measure the high voltage capabilities of the cable. Measurements can be made to 6 Kilovolts, AC or DC.

Insulation Resistance
The dielectric resistance is measured using a Hipotronics HM3A megohmeter. Measuring capabilities extend to 100 megohms resistance, using measurement voltages to 1000 volts.

Corona Extinction Voltage
This cable parameter is checked with the Hipotronics 705-2CTS AC Corona Test Set. Corona Emissions as low as 1 pico coulomb can be detected.

Passive Intermodulation (PIM)
PIM is measured with a CCI-PimPro 1921 Analyzer and is capable of measuring both PCS (1900) and AWS (2100) bands.