In today’s landscape of electromagnetic field (EMF) measurements, ensuring the proper operation of measurement instruments quickly and directly in the field represents a major advantage for technicians.
The growth of wireless applications, the expansion of broadband networks, and the need for compliance with international standards have made it essential to have systems capable of evaluating the performance of probes, selective antennas, and personal protection devices in a repeatable way.
The CAL-P fits precisely into this context. Developed by MPB, it is a portable functional test system designed to provide a reliable and repeatable solution for the preliminary verification of EMF sensors, whether in the laboratory or directly on site.
Its universal nature, modular architecture, and ability to operate without external equipment make it a revolutionary tool for technicians, EMC laboratories, and operators involved in monitoring activities.
Functional EMF Verification Anywhere
In EMF measurement activities, periodic laboratory calibration remains a mandatory step.
However, between calibration cycles, professionals need rapid functional checks to:
- Verify the probe’s behavior before or after measurement campaigns
- Identify potential drift or anomalies
- Ensure the reliability of field-collected data
- Perform preliminary checks without interrupting ongoing operations
Bench-top field generation systems or shielded rooms require infrastructures that are not always available – especially for mobile work. This led to the idea of designing a portable, autonomous solution capable of providing an immediate check of measurement sensors.
CAL-P System Composition
CAL-P consists of two main elements:
- An integrated RF generator capable of covering a wide frequency range
- A shielded jig dedicated to the device under test, configurable based on the type of sensor
Inside the jig, a confined electromagnetic field is generated solely for functional verification purposes. The probe is exposed to the electric field component, whose intensity depends on both the selected frequency and the probe’s operational range.
The modular structure allows the use of jigs with different sizes and geometries, making the system compatible with broadband probes, selective antennas, and even wearable devices designed for exposure monitoring.
Frequency Range and Universal Compatibility
The integrated generator operates from 25 MHz to 4 GHz, covering most EMF measurement applications associated with commercial, industrial, and telecommunications sources. This enables the system to interface with a wide range of sensors from major manufacturers.
CAL-P is designed to be compatible with instruments from different suppliers, including those commonly used in EMC laboratories.
This “vendor-independent” approach is particularly valuable in heterogeneous operational environments, where technicians and labs rely on probes from different brands depending on the application.
Having a single system capable of verifying sensors from multiple manufacturers reduces accessory costs, simplifies instrument management, and standardizes preliminary performance assessments, greatly benefiting users working with large or diverse instrument fleets.
Operating Principle
During functional verification, the system generates an electromagnetic field confined within the jig, providing a repeatable and controlled environment free from external interference. The technician inserts the probe into the jig and selects the desired frequency.
The probe’s response is then compared with the expected behavior, allowing the identification of deviations caused by:
- Electronic drift
- Mechanical shocks or damage
- Aging
- Sensitivity variations
While it does not replace calibration, functional verification performed with CAL-P provides a reliable indicative measurement, which is essential to ensure quality in field operations.
Operational Autonomy and Integrated Interface
One of CAL-P’s key features is its ability to operate completely autonomously. The system requires no external hardware, including:
- No dedicated computer
- No external RF generator
- No laboratory power supply
- No additional control unit
A 3.5-inch touchscreen interface enables users to:
- Select the frequency
- Manage test parameters
- Monitor system status
- Run automatic verification sequences
This setup supports use even in outdoor environments or in situations where a bench configuration would be impractical.
Portability and Power Supply
Weighing only 1.7 kg, CAL-P is designed for ease of transport. It is powered by replaceable 18650A batteries, offering about two hours of active operation, with recharging via a standard USB-C port.
These characteristics make it ideal for:
- Field verification during measurement campaigns
- Quick checks on industrial installations
- Support for mobile units
- Inspection activities and preliminary assessments
USB-C and fiber-optic connectivity, along with an RF output via a female N-type connector, ensure high compatibility and universality.
High-Power Versions
For applications requiring higher field strength, a jig capable of generating values up to 150 V/m is available.
The design remains modular, enabling jigs to be interchanged as needed without modifying the main system.
Software and Automation
The system includes dedicated software that allows:
- Automation of test sequences
- Independent jig characterization with user-selectable frequency points
- Data storage and report generation
Automation is particularly valuable for laboratories requiring repeatable verifications, data archiving, and fully documented test reports without dedicating additional resources.
Applications in the EMC/EMF Sector
CAL-P is suitable for a wide range of professional uses, including:
- Functional checks prior to EMC testing
- On-site inspections after installations or maintenance
- Preliminary evaluation of suspicious or damaged probes
- Support during long-term measurement campaigns
Its portability benefits operators who frequently work in the field, while modularity allows labs and companies to gradually expand their jig collection based on the sensors they employ.
The increasing complexity of EMI/EMC applications and the rise of stringent regulations make it essential to have tools capable of ensuring the operational validity of sensors used in EMF measurements.
CAL-P introduces a practical, portable approach to functional verification, offering an uncommon combination of:
- Universal compatibility
- Portability
- Autonomy
- Modularity
- Repeatability
- Reliability
While not a substitute for certified calibration, it provides immediate and concrete support for the daily work of technicians, researchers, and EMC/EMF professionals, ultimately improving the overall reliability of measurement processes.
