Specifications

Chapter 2: Calibration
Running a self calibration
11
Running a self calibration
The self calibration uses signals generated in the oscilloscope to calibrate channel
sensitivity, offsets, and trigger parameters. There are three times we recommend
performing a self calibration:
• At least once a year
• When you replace the hard drive
• When the oscilloscope’s operating temperature (after the 30- minute warm- up period)
is more than ±5 °C different from that of the last calibration. Be sure to perform a
self calibration - - even if one was recently performed - - when environmental
temperature conditions cause the oscilloscope’s operating temperature to change, such
as when the oscilloscope is moved to a test rack or chamber.
Equipment Required
1 Let the oscilloscope warm up before running the self calibration.
The self calibration should be done only after the oscilloscope has run for 30 minutes
at ambient temperature with the cover installed. Calibration of an oscilloscope that has
not warmed up may result in an inaccurate calibration.
2 Select Utilities > Calibration.
3 Uncheck the Cal Memory Protect box.
You cannot run a self calibration if this box is checked. See Figure 2- 1 for an example
screen showing RealEdge channels.
Let the Oscilloscope Warm Up Before Adjusting.
Warm up the oscilloscope for 30 minutes before starting the calibration procedure. Failure to allow warm
up may result in inaccurate calibration.
Equipment Critical Specifications Agilent Part Number
Connector Savers (5 supplied
with oscilloscope)
Connector Savers (2 supplied
with 50 GHz and 62 GHz
models)
3.5 mm (f) to 3.5 mm (f)
1.85 mm (f) to 1.85 mm (f)
Agilent 54916-68717 (for all oscilloscope
models, channels 1-4)
Agilent 54932-68712 (for 50 GHz and
62 GHz models, channels 1R and 3R)
Cable assembly 50 Ohm characteristic impedance BNC
(m) connectors, 36 inches (91 cm) to 48
inches (122 cm) long
Agilent 8120-1840
Adapter SMA(m) to BNC(f) Agilent 1250-1200
Cable (supplied with
oscilloscope)
No substitute Agilent 54916-61626 (for all oscilloscope
models, channels 1-4)
Agilent 54932-61630 (for 50 GHz and
62 GHz models, channels 1R and 3R)
Calibration time
It will take approximately 4-1/2 hours to run the self calibration on channels 1-4 on the oscilloscope, plus
4-1/2 more hours to calibrate RealEdge channels 1R and 3R, including the time required to change cables
from channel to channel.