9 Maintenance
234 Keysight N1913/1914A User’s Guide
Connector Maintenance
Stable and repeatable measurements can only be achieved if the devices are
clean and undamaged. Careful and consistent connections are also necessary to
achieve maximum stability and repeatability. Therefore, always handle the devices
with care, do not overtighten them, and keep them properly stored when not in
use.
Precision connectors should be regularly cleaned and gauged — measured with a
special dial gauge to ensure that they have not been mechanically damaged. A
damaged connector can instantly ruin the mated part.
Ensure the steps below are followed:
– Select the test equipment for the lowest SWR.
– Keep the cable length as short as possible.
– Use good quality cables.
– Select the appropriate connectors.
– Keep the connectors clean.
– Measure (gauge) the connectors regularly.
– Replace faulty, worn, or damaged cables and connectors promptly.
– Do not make your own cables for use at high frequencies unless you test them
first.
– Minimize the number of adapters.
– If possible, use semi-rigid cables for permanently connected cables.
– Follow the cable manufacturer’s recommendation for minimum bend-radius.
– Fix the measurement equipment to the bench if possible (or rack it up).
– Do not overtighten connectors and do not allow them to become loose — use a
torque wrench.
– Do not mate dissimilar families, for example APC-3.5 and SMA.
– Avoid temperature extremes.
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