RF / Microwave & Time/Frequency Calibration
RF power to 26.5 GHz · frequency to 26.5 GHz · timers to 99,999 s
RF / Microwave & Time/Frequency metrology at FCI
Radio-frequency and microwave calibration is one of the most specialized disciplines in metrology, and a capability that distinguishes FCI from general-purpose Phoenix labs. We calibrate RF power, frequency, and time against HP 437B power meters with HP 8482A/8485A sensors and a Fluke 910R reference.
RF power is measured from 0.0001 GHz to 26.5 GHz across −20 dBm to +20 dBm, with CMCs of 0.12–0.35 dBm, using the HP 437B with the HP 8482A sensor to 18 GHz and the HP 8485A to 26.5 GHz. Frequency is referenced 0.1–10 MHz to a Fluke 910R and measured 1 Hz to 26.5 GHz using an HP 3325 with a Fluke 910R timebase.
Timers and stopwatches are calibrated from 0.001 s to 99,999.999 s with a CMC of 0.001 % by comparison to a VWR 62344-880. These services support aerospace, defense, and semiconductor customers whose communications, radar, and test systems demand traceable RF and timing performance.
Because RF instruments are sensitive to handling and connector wear, FCI offers careful in-lab service and can coordinate DC/low electrical calibration so your entire signal chain is certified by one accredited supplier.
Measurement parameters & uncertainty
| Parameter | Range | Uncertainty (k=2) | Reference Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| RF power (measure)³ | 0.0001 – 26.5 GHz, −20 to +20 dBm | 0.12 – 0.35 dBm | HP 437B w/ HP 8482A (≤18 GHz) / 8485A (≤26.5 GHz) |
| Frequency (reference)⁴ | 0.1 – 10 MHz | per Fluke 910R | Fluke 910R |
| Frequency (generate / measure) | 1 Hz – 26.5 GHz | per timebase | HP 3325 + Fluke 910R timebase |
| Timers / stopwatches | 0.001 s – 99,999.999 s | 0.001 % | VWR 62344-880 (comparison) |
Best achievable uncertainty under reference conditions. Device-specific CMC stated per certificate.
What we calibrate in rf / microwave & time/frequency
- RF power meters & sensors
- Signal & frequency generators
- Frequency counters
- Timers & stopwatches
- RF cables & couplers
Where this discipline delivers value
- Radar & communications test systems
- Aerospace & defense RF verification
- Frequency-reference & timing support
- Power-measurement reference support
Traceability: NIST → IAS → FCI → Your Asset
RF power, frequency, and time measurements are traceable to NIST through HP 437B power sensors and the Fluke 910R frequency reference. Uncertainties are reported at 95% confidence (k=2) on each ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certificate.
RF / Microwave & Time/Frequency calibration questions
What RF and frequency equipment do you calibrate?
RF power meters and sensors, signal and frequency generators, frequency counters, timers and stopwatches, and RF cables and couplers.
How high in frequency does your RF scope go?
RF power is measured from 0.0001 to 26.5 GHz at -20 to +20 dBm with 0.12 to 0.35 dBm uncertainty, using an HP 437B with 8482A and 8485A sensors. Frequency is generated and measured from 1 Hz to 26.5 GHz.
What is your frequency reference?
A Fluke 910R reference covers 0.1 to 10 MHz and serves as the timebase for frequency work. Timers and stopwatches are calibrated from 0.001 to 99,999.999 seconds at 0.001%.
Who uses your RF calibration?
Radar and communications test systems, aerospace and defense RF verification, and timing and power-measurement programs. Returning customers get a written quote within one business day. New customers and new equipment go through ISO/IEC 17025 contract review in three to five business days.