SOLT-AUTO-M or SOLT-AUTO-F calibration data

The SOLT-AUTO-M or SOLT-AUTO-F Calibration Data Service, product code CC057, is intended for customers who already own a Pico Technology electronic calibration module and require renewed traceable calibration data.

The service applies to:

• TA518 SOLT-AUTO-M, automated E-Cal module with two SMA male ports
• TA519 SOLT-AUTO-F, automated E-Cal module with two SMA female ports

Each new Pico E-Cal standard is originally supplied with traceable calibration data stored within the module. CC057 is the factory recalibration option for updating that data on an existing male or female E-Cal module.

Factory Recalibration Service

CC057 is a service, not a new calibration accessory.

The customer must already own a TA518 or TA519 module. The existing E-Cal must be returned to Pico Technology so that its electronic standards can be recharacterised.

The service does not include:

• A new TA518 E-Cal module
• A new TA519 E-Cal module
• A TA520 dual E-Cal kit
• A manual SOLT calibration kit
• A new PicoVNA
• RF test cables
• Check standards
• Connector adaptors

Pico states that it provides calibration only for its own SOLT, E-Cal and check standards.

Applicable Electronic Calibration Modules

Both products are automated electronic two-port SOLT calibration modules designed for operation through PicoVNA software.

Embedded Calibration Data

Unlike a manual SOLT kit, the TA518 and TA519 store their individual characterisation data inside the E-Cal hardware.

PicoVNA software uses this embedded information to:

• Identify the connected E-Cal module
• Read its individual calibration data
• Control the internal electronic standards
• Apply the characterised standard responses
• Complete automated two-port SOLT calibration

CC057 updates the calibration data associated with the returned E-Cal module.

Internal SOLT Standards

The applicable E-Cal modules electronically switch between:

• Short
• Open
• Load
• Through

These standards are used to calculate systematic VNA error corrections, including:

• Directivity
• Source match
• Load match
• Reflection tracking
• Transmission tracking
• Forward measurement errors
• Reverse measurement errors

The CC057 service recalibrates the electronic standard module. It does not change the product into a different calibration type.

SMA Male and Female Versions

The service supports two connector configurations.

TA518 SOLT-AUTO-M

The TA518 has:

• Two SMA male RF ports
• 50 Ω nominal impedance
• Automated two-port SOLT operation
• USB power and control
• Embedded characterisation data

It is typically used where the VNA test cables or calibration reference planes terminate in SMA female connectors.

TA519 SOLT-AUTO-F

The TA519 has:

• Two SMA female RF ports
• 50 Ω nominal impedance
• Automated two-port SOLT operation
• USB power and control
• Embedded characterisation data

It is typically used where the VNA test cables or calibration reference planes terminate in SMA male connectors.

300 kHz to 8.5 GHz E-Cal Range

The TA518 and TA519 electronic calibration modules are characterised from 300 kHz to 8.5 GHz.

This supports calibration for measurements involving:

• RF filters
• Amplifiers
• Antennas
• Cables and connectors
• Attenuators
• Couplers and splitters
• PCB transmission lines
• Matching networks
• Wireless modules
• Cellular equipment
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth products
• GNSS systems
• RFID and IoT devices

The frequency range describes the compatible E-Cal modules. CC057 itself is a recalibration service rather than a measurement device.

USB-Controlled E-Cal Operation

After recalibration, the TA518 or TA519 continues to use USB for:

• Module power
• Device identification
• Characterisation-data transfer
• Electronic standard switching
• Communication with PicoVNA software

The USB interface is a feature of the returned E-Cal hardware. CC057 does not include a separate USB-powered instrument unless Pico replaces the hardware under an agreed service arrangement.

Oven-Stabilised Electronic Standards

The TA518 and TA519 use internal temperature stabilisation to improve repeatability during automated calibration.

Recalibration renews the characterised data for the returned module. Overall calibration quality still depends on:

• Module condition
• Connector condition
• Correct connector torque
• VNA source level
• Test-cable stability
• Temperature
• Calibration reference planes
• Measurement settings

The service should not be described as making every VNA measurement automatically error-free.

Traceable Recalibration

Pico states that new E-Cal SOLT standards are supplied with traceable calibration data embedded in the module. CC057 is the option to select when recalibration of an existing male or female E-Cal is required.

Traceable recalibration is relevant for:

• RF laboratories
• Electronics manufacturers
• Production test facilities
• Research organisations
• Telecom development teams
• University laboratories
• Quality-controlled measurement systems
• Internal calibration programmes
• Measurement assurance workflows

A separate NABL calibration certificate should only be stated when RevineTech has confirmed that such a certificate is included and applies specifically to the returned module.

RMA Return Process

Pico requires an RMA number before the E-Cal standard is returned.

A typical return process includes:

1. Confirm whether the module is TA518 or TA519.
2. Record the model and serial number.
3. Contact RevineTech or Pico support.
4. Obtain an authorised RMA number.
5. Inspect the SMA ports for visible damage.
6. Fit protective connector caps.
7. Pack the module securely in its carrying case.
8. Include the required service and return information.
9. Send the module according to the issued instructions.
10. Reload or verify the updated embedded data after return.

When Recalibration May Be Required

Recalibration may be considered when:

• The organisation’s calibration interval has expired
• Internal quality procedures require current traceability
• The E-Cal module is used frequently
• The connectors have undergone many mating cycles
• Measurement verification shows unexplained deviation
• The module has been transported regularly
• Temperature or storage conditions have been unsuitable
• The module is used as part of a production test system

The appropriate interval depends on usage, handling, connector condition and the organisation’s measurement assurance policy.

Connector Condition and Service Limitations

Recalibration updates the module’s characterisation, but it may not correct serious physical damage.

Before returning the module, inspect for:

• Damaged centre conductors
• Scratched mating surfaces
• Worn connector threads
• Loose connector bodies
• Contamination
• Signs of over-torque
• Bent or misaligned contacts
• Damaged USB connector

Physical repair or replacement may require a separate assessment and quotation.

Compatible VNA Systems

The recalibrated TA518 or TA519 can be used within supported PicoVNA calibration workflows, including setups based on:

• PicoVNA 106
• PicoVNA 108
• PicoVNA software
• Compatible automated RF test systems

The selected calibration sweep should remain within the E-Cal module’s characterised frequency range.

Applications

CC057 is suitable for E-Cal modules used in:

• Vector network analyser calibration
• Antenna measurements
• RF filter testing
• Amplifier characterisation
• Cable and connector analysis
• PCB transmission-line measurements
• Wireless product development
• Cellular component testing
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth development
• GNSS testing
• RF production systems
• Automated test equipment
• Research laboratories
• University RF laboratories
• Measurement verification
• Calibration-controlled environments

Why Buy Through RevineTech?

RevineTech can assist with the recalibration process for an existing TA518 or TA519 E-Cal module.

Support may include:

• Confirming the E-Cal model
• Selecting the CC057 service
• RMA coordination
• Return-shipping guidance
• Calibration documentation
• PicoVNA compatibility support
• Replacement E-Cal quotation
• TA520 dual-kit comparison
• Check-standard selection
• RF cable and torque-wrench selection

The final service quotation may include recalibration charges, freight, taxes and return logistics.