Specifications

Chapter 2: Calibration

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.

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)

3.5mm (f) to 3.5 mm (f) Agilent 5061-5311 (for 20, 25, 28, 30,

and 32 GHz models)

Agilent 1250-3758 (for 13 GHz

and16 GHz models)

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

Digital channels cable (MSO

models only)

No substitute Agilent N2815-68701

MSO calibrator (MSO models

only)

No substitute Agilent N2834-68703

Calibration time

It will take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to run the self calibration on the oscilloscope, including

the time required to change cables from channel to channel.