Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E4B
E4B05E4B

What three test loads are used to calibrate an RF vector network analyzer?

Deep Dive: E4B05

The correct answer is B: Short circuit, open circuit, and 50 ohms. What three test loads are used to calibrate an RF vector network analyzer is short circuit, open circuit, and 50 ohms. These three loads are used for VNA calibration. For amateur radio operators, this is important for test equipment. Understanding this helps when calibrating network analyzers.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. 50, 75, and 90 ohms isn't correct - VNA calibration uses short, open, and 50 ohms. 75/90 ohms isn't used. Option C: Incorrect. Short, open, and resonant circuit isn't correct - VNA calibration uses short, open, and 50 ohms. Resonant circuit isn't used. Option D: Incorrect. 50 ohms through different cable lengths isn't correct - VNA calibration uses short, open, and 50 ohms. Cable lengths isn't the method.

Exam Tip

VNA calibration loads = short circuit, open circuit, and 50 ohms. Think 'V'NA 'C'alibration = 'S'hort, 'O'pen, '5'0 ohms. These three loads are used for VNA calibration. Not 75/90 ohms, not resonant circuit, not cable lengths - just short, open, 50 ohms.

Memory Aid

VNA calibration loads = short circuit, open circuit, and 50 ohms. Think 'V'NA 'C'alibration = 'S'hort, 'O'pen, '5'0 ohms. These three loads are used for VNA calibration. Important for test equipment.

Real-World Example

Calibrating an RF vector network analyzer: Three test loads are used - short circuit, open circuit, and 50 ohms. These three known impedances allow the VNA to calibrate its measurements. This is the calibration method - short, open, and 50 ohms.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E4B

Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E4 - Amateur Practices

Key Concepts

RF vector network analyzer Calibration Short circuit Open circuit 50 ohms

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E4B topic.