Developing models for Type-N coaxial VNA calibration kits within the NIST Microwave Uncertainty Framework

We developed models for Type-N coaxial vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration kits within the NIST Microwave Uncertainty Framework. First, we created physical models of commercially-available standards that support multiline thru-reflect-line (TRL) and open-short-load-thru (OSLT) calibrations, and included error mechanisms in each of the standards' constituent parameters that were utilized in the NIST Microwave Uncertainty Framework to propagate uncertainties. Next, we created a measurement-based model of a commercial electronic calibration unit (ECU) by characterizing the scattering parameters of its internal states with a multiline TRL calibration. Finally, we calibrated a network analyzer using the three calibration methods, and compared measurements, including uncertainties, made on a number of verification devices. We show that the three calibrations agreed to within their respective uncertainties.