551
Keysight Handheld Analyzers
N99xxA User’s Guide
C: Instrument Calibration
Over time, the active components in the FieldFox age and the performance 
may degrade or drift. To ensure that the FieldFox is performing to the 
published specifications, you should have an instrument calibration performed 
periodically.
How Often Should Calibrate My Instrument?
You determine the calibration period which best meets your requirements. 
However, a 12 month calibration cycle is appropriate for most users.
There are two things to consider: performance drift and connector wear. 
The instrument specifications are set to consider the performance drift that 
may occur over a 12 month period. Therefore, getting the instrument 
calibrated at 12 month intervals ensures that the analyzer maintains 
performance within the operating specifications. If you need the analyzer to 
maintain more consistent operation, you may want to have the instrument 
calibrated more often.
Connector wear is a bigger factor and depends on the number of connections 
that are made. The test ports become noticeably worn after 500 to 700 
connections. This could represent about 12 months with average use. With 
more frequent connections, the calibration cycle should be sooner. You can 
extend the time between calibrations and thereby save money by using 
connector savers and by performing proper Connector Care. Learn more in 
“Connector Care Review” on page 545.
How do I Get an Instrument Calibration?
To get your Keysight instrument calibrated, send it to one of the Keysight 
Technologies service centers. Please visit this website to learn how: 
www.keysight.com/find/calibration.