Simplified Vector Network Analyzer Design Using an Electronic Calibrator

The characterization of at least three reflection coefficients of a Multi State Electronic Transfer Standard (MSETS), at the user defined reference plane, plus the knowledge of a THRU standard, is sufficient for a two-port Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) calibration. A new technique is presented where the MSETS are used both during calibration of the VNA, as well as for measurements of the device under test (DUT). The benefits of this technique are a simpler VNA hardware requirement and an improved procedure for the active device characterization.