Figure of Merit of Probes as Standing Wave Detectors

Errors attributable to the detector probe are examined by correlating a group of error formulas which apply to the bulk of standing-wave measurements. Simple consistencies are observed which permit defining a general purpose Figure of Merit of the measuring system, which is inversely proportional to the measurement error. When developed analytically, the Figure of Merit shows the effects of the various system parameters. For comparing two given probes, a simpler formula is available, as well as a simple experimental method. Closely related specific Figures of Merit are also developed for more specialized measurements. The results are useful for predicting maximum measurement errors; for rating the merits of given probes; and for clarifying the general behavior of detector probes.