164 Service Procedures
Appendix D
Closed-Case Electronic Calibration
The function generator features closed-case electronic calibration since no
internal mechanical adjustments are required for calibration. The function
generator calculates correction factors based upon the input reference value
you set. The new correction factors are stored in non-volatile memory until
the next calibration adjustment is performed. (Non-volatile memory does not
change when power has been off or after a remote interface reset.)
Agilent Technologies Calibration Services
When your function generator is due for calibration, contact your local
Agilent Technologies Service Center for a low-cost recalibration. The
Agilent E1441A Function Generator is supported on automated calibration
systems which allows Agilent to provide this service at competitive prices.
Calibrations to MIL-STD-45662 are also available competitively.
Calibration Interval
The function generator should be calibrated on a regular interval determined
by the measurement accuracy requirements of your application. A 1-year or
2-year interval is adequate for most applications. Agilent Technologies does
not recommend extending calibration intervals beyond 2 years for any
application.
Whatever calibration interval you select, Agilent Technologies recommends
that complete re-adjustment always be performed at the calibration interval.
This will increase your confidence that the Agilent E1441A will remain
within specification for the next calibration interval. This criteria for
re-adjustment provides the best long-term stability. Performance data
measured using this method can be used to extend future calibration intervals.
Time Required for Calibration
The Agilent E1441A can be automatically calibrated under computer
control. With computer control you can perform the complete calibration
procedure and performance verification tests in less than 15 minutes. Manual
calibrations using the recommended test equipment will take approximately
45 minutes.
Automated Verification and Calibration Procedures
Performance verification and adjustment programs are provided on the
Agilent Universal Instrument Drivers CD. The directory path to these
programs is <drive>:\examples\hpe1441. The program names are 1441ver.c
and 1441adj.c for verification and adjustment respectively.
These programs were developed on a 486 IBM compatible PC running
Windows NT®. The computer is equipped with an Agilent 82341 GPIB
interface and Agilent VISA for GPIB software.
The programs automate the majority of the procedures using an Agilent
34401A benchtop Multimeter or an Agilent E1412A VXI Multimeter.