Evaluation of coaxial V-connector LRL impedance standards for the 65 GHz vector network analyzer

This paper presents the results of an investigation of V-connector (1.85 mm) LRL impedance standards used in calibrating a 65 GHz vector network analyzer (VNA). Coaxial V-connector impedance standards are also denoted as the 1.85 mm connector in the IEEE 287-2001 draft. Transmission lines are the primary impedance standards for microwave measurements. Current traceable standards for coaxial measurements are available in frequency ranges below 50 GHz. Measurement needs in the fields of optoelectronic and high speed microelectronic industries have driven the requirements of traceability to 65 GHz. Therefore, we have conducted an evaluation of LRL transmission lines as our reference standards. Two sets of these lines were built in house. They were evaluated both mechanically and electrically. The electrical performance of an LRL airline calibration compared with a sliding load calibration will be reported.