Electronic Calibration Modules Reference Guide          3-11
Operating ECal Module
Validating a Calibration
Validating a Calibration 
The accuracy of a completed calibration should be validated after each 
calibration, because the following sources of error that can invalidate it:
— damaged semiconductor devices caused by static discharge or excess high 
input power
—bad cables
— dirty or worn connectors
— operator error
— measurement uncertainties from interpolation
The following paragraphs discuss two methods of validating the accuracy of a 
calibration:
1. Performing the ECal module’s ECal Confidence Check.
2. Performing the analyzer’s System Verification Procedure using standards 
in a Keysight verification kit.
Which method you choose depends largely on the level of accuracy required 
and the availability of a Keysight verification kit.
ECal Confidence Check – Basic Validation of the Calibration
The ECal Confidence Check allows you to measure an impedance state in the 
ECal module – called the confidence state – and compare your measurement 
data with factory measurement data stored in ECal memory (of the same 
confidence state). The ECal Confidence Check overlays the two measurement 
traces so that the differences between your data and the factory data can be 
easily viewed. 
— The ECal Confidence Check provides a basic validation that you have 
completed the ECal calibration correctly and that the calibration is 
activated.
It is recommended that the Confidence Check be performed after every 
calibration, to verify the device is still functioning as expected.
ECal Confidence Check and System Verification do not apply to the 
FieldFox.
It is recommended that the Confidence Check be performed after every 
calibration, to verify the device is still functioning as expected.