Accredited Power Meter Calibration Services
In telecommunications, aerospace, and semiconductor manufacturing, the accuracy of power measurements is the difference between a high-performing system and signal failure. At DRS Technologies, we provide expert power meter calibration services to verify the performance of your RF and optical measurement tools. Our laboratory ensures that your power sensors, displays, and indicators are calibrated to handle the specific frequencies and power levels critical to your operations.
Why Sensor Linearity and Frequency Response are Critical
Power meters do not measure signal strength directly; they rely on sensors (thermistor, thermocouple, or diode) to convert power into a measurable electrical signal. Over time, these sensors can lose linearity or experience “calibration factor” shifts due to thermal aging or accidental over-exposure to high power. Regular calibration by DRS Technologies ensures that your meter correctly compensates for frequency-dependent variations, providing a flat and accurate response across its entire bandwidth.
Our Technical Power Meter Calibration Process
Our metrology specialists employ a rigorous protocol to eliminate measurement uncertainty and mismatch errors:
-
Sensor and Connector Inspection: We perform a microscopic inspection of the RF or optical connectors for scratches or contamination that can cause significant signal reflection and loss.
-
Zeroing and Noise Level Audit: We verify the meter’s ability to “zero” correctly and measure the floor noise level to ensure low-level signals are not obscured by internal electronic interference.
-
Reference Power Verification: Using a highly stable 50 MHz or 1 GHz reference oscillator, we verify the meter’s basic accuracy at its primary calibration point.
-
Frequency and Linearity Mapping: We test the sensor at multiple frequency points and power levels (dBm/Watts), calculating the specific Calibration Factors (Cal Factors) required for the sensor’s internal EPROM or look-up table.
-
NIST Traceable Certification: Every service results in a detailed certificate showing As-Found/As-Left data, Cal Factor tables, and documented traceability to national standards.
Specialized Expertise for RF and Optical Power Systems
DRS Technologies provides elite-level support for a wide range of power measurement technology:
-
RF and Microwave Power Meters: Benchtop and USB-based peak and average meters.
-
Optical Power Meters (OPM): For fiber optic networks (850nm, 1310nm, 1550nm).
-
Power Sensors: Thermistor, Diode-based, and Wide-dynamic-range sensors.
-
Directional Power Meters: Verifying forward and reflected power for antenna systems.
-
Power Analyzers: Comprehensive AC/DC power and harmonic measurement.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Power Meter Calibration
What is a “Cal Factor” in power meter calibration?
A Calibration Factor is a correction value that accounts for the sensor’s non-flat frequency response and mismatch loss. Because a sensor’s sensitivity changes at different frequencies, DRS Technologies provides a table of these factors so the meter can accurately calculate the true power across its range.
How often should my power meter and sensor be calibrated?
Most manufacturers recommend a twelve-month calibration interval. However, sensors are highly sensitive to “burn-out” if exposed to power levels above their rating. If a sensor is accidentally overloaded, it should be sent for immediate recalibration to ensure the sensing element has not been damaged.
Do I need to send the sensor and the meter together?
Ideally, yes. While the sensor holds the calibration data, the meter (the display unit) contains the circuitry that interprets that data. Calibrating them as a system ensures the highest level of measurement certainty, though we can calibrate sensors individually using our laboratory master meters.