Error analysis in two-terminal impedance measurements with residual correction

Abstract

Residual impedance correction in impedance analyzers when using an asymmetrical test fixture needs three reference measurements, usually open circuit, short circuit, and load (meaning an impedance close to the impedance under test). This paper provides an error estimate for impedance measurements that apply a simple open/short correction in spite of using an asymmetrical test fixture. Experimental results show that the minimal error is obtained for impedance values close to the geometric mean of the short-circuit and open-circuit impedances, and that the theoretical prediction is indeed an upper limit for the actual error.