Connectors suitable for a TRL calibration (microstrip)
  • agSL
    0
    Hi,
    I followed the MW101 encyclopedia page on TRL calibration. It strongly recommends 2.92mm air dielectric connectors. I have 2 questions.

    1. When I search in the internet, I found some precision 2.92 mm connectors in the price range around US$ 50/connector. But the dielectric used is NOT air. How about using these for a TRL calibration?

    2. All literature points out that 2.92mm (K) connectors are mechanically compatible with SMA and 3.5mm types. But in the internet, I found there are 2.92mm to SMA/3.5mm adapters. If these connector types are compatible, why do we need adapters?
    Thanks a lot if you can clarify these.
    Best Regards,
    agSL
    agSL Options
  • madengr
    1
    The connectors are mechanically compatible, but you should not use a 3.5 mm cal kit on a 2.92 mm connector as you will have an electrical discontinuity at the reference plane. Rather you use the adapter to get the proper interface.

    No, you should not use a dielectric filled 2.92 mm on a 2.92 mm cal kit for the same reason. Sounds like a bastardized 2.92 mm.

    Now SMA cal kits are rare (as they are an abomination) so they expect you to use 3.5 mm on SMA. Though never connect an SMA to a 3.5 mm cal kit, especially an HP. Use a 3.5 mm jack saver.
    madengr Options
  • UnknownEditor
    4
    It does seem weird that there are 2.92 to 3.5mm adapters available... how accurate do you need a calibration? if you don't work for NIST maybe you can ignore a slight discontinuity.

    I would like to see the data sheet on the 2.92 mm connector with dielectric.... Thanks!

    Keep in touch!
    Steve
    UnknownEditor Options
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