So, its my understanding that the VNA (vector network analyzer) is designed to inject a known signal into an unknown device and analyze the reflected signal's amplitude and phase (both voltage and current). But it is also able to remove the unwanted reflections, delays, attenuations, etc of the test cable, connectors and so forth.
This is accomplished with the well-known calibration sequence in which the VNA samples what an open, load, short and through "look like" through the test cable, connectors, etc, so that it can effectively subtract the measurement errors they cause.
Am I right so far?
My question is, which is better, to use a precision cal kit (and then make electrical length adjustments), or make my own right on the PC board- actually 5 PC boards 4 for the SOLT cal, and the 5th of course for the actual measurements?
It seems to me a precision cal kit is both expensive and NOT what the test circuit will look like. I'm certain I'm missing something, but what?
This question was somewhat answered here, but what I don't understand is even if I get a pristine calibration with a good standard, I'm still going to have to connect to the circuit using some sort of pigtail that injects its own problems.