OMICRON Lab B-TCA Test Card Adapter

How does the B-TCA compare to expensive premium test fixture solutions?

Compared to premium test fixtures from manufacturers like Keysight, which can cost several thousand pounds and typically operate at lower frequencies, the B-TCA offers exceptional value whilst providing superior frequency coverage up to 450 MHz. Premium alternatives often require multiple expensive accessories and calibration kits that can cost over £1,000 each. The B-TCA's integrated approach, comprehensive included accessories, and extended frequency range make it a cost-effective alternative to these expensive solutions whilst maintaining professional measurement accuracy.

What replacement test card sets are available for the B-TCA?

Debug Store offers optional test card replacement sets for extended use. Each replacement set includes 32 test cards (4 sets of 8 pieces) plus one dedicated calibrator for the specific measurement configuration. Available sets include Test Card Set – Shunt-Thru (P0011462), Test Card Set – Series-Thru (P0011464), Test Card Set – One-Port (P0011465), and Test Card Set – Shunt-Thru with Rs (P0011466), ensuring continuous operation for high-volume testing applications

How does the B-TCA's card exchange system improve workflow efficiency?

The innovative PCIe edge-card connector system allows for rapid test card changes without requiring reconnection of measurement cables. This design significantly reduces setup time compared to traditional test fixtures that require complete reconfiguration for different measurement types. The card edge connector provides reliable mechanical and electrical connection whilst enabling quick component changeover, making it ideal for high-throughput testing environments.

What are the key advantages of the B-TCA's calibration system?

The B-TCA features dedicated calibrators for each measurement setup, ensuring optimal accuracy across all configurations. This multi-calibrator approach is superior to single-calibrator systems used by many competitors, as it accounts for the unique characteristics of each measurement topology. The calibration system includes Open/Short/Load references for each setup, enabling precise error correction and measurement traceability.

How are components prepared for testing with the B-TCA?

Components must be soldered directly to the test cards for measurement. This approach provides several advantages over premium competitors' push-and-hold contact systems: it ensures consistent, low-resistance connections, eliminates contact variability, and provides measurements that better represent real-world PCB mounting conditions. The soldering process creates a stable test environment that significantly improves measurement repeatability compared to mechanical contact systems.

What is included in the standard B-TCA Test Card Adapter package?

The standard B-TCA package includes the main test card adapter unit, a printed user manual, two N-N cables (30 cm, male-to-male), two N-BNC cables (50 cm, male-to-male), dedicated calibrators for each measurement setup (Shunt-Thru, Series-Thru, One-Port, and Shunt-Thru with Rs), and eight test cards for each measurement configuration (32 total test cards). This comprehensive package provides everything needed to begin high-frequency component testing immediately.

What types of measurements can be performed with the B-TCA?

The B-TCA enables four distinct measurement configurations: One-Port impedance measurements (for S11 reflection parameters), Shunt-Thru impedance measurements, Series-Thru impedance measurements, and Shunt-Thru with Rs measurements. Each setup allows for comprehensive S-parameter analysis, complex impedance measurement from milliohms to megohms, and characterisation of passive electronic surface-mount components across the full frequency range.

What frequency range does the B-TCA cover and how does this compare to premium competitors?

The B-TCA Test Card Adapter operates from DC to 450 MHz, which significantly outperforms many premium test fixtures. For comparison, Keysight's high-end test fixtures like the 16034G typically operate up to 120 MHz, whilst the B-TCA's 450 MHz capability places it in direct competition with much more expensive vector network analyser accessories that can cost thousands of pounds more.

Which vector network analysers are compatible with the B-TCA Test Card Adapter?

The B-TCA Test Card Adapter is designed to work seamlessly with both the Omicron-Lab Bode 500 and Bode 100 vector network analysers. It integrates directly into the measurement ecosystem of these instruments, providing enhanced testing workflow capabilities. The adapter connects via Type N connectors (female, shield connected to housing) and utilises a PCIe edge-card connector interface for the test cards.

What is the Omicron-Lab B-TCA Test Card Adapter and what makes it unique?

The B-TCA (Test Card Adapter) is a specialised test fixture designed for impedance and S-parameter measurements of surface mount components up to 450 MHz. What makes it unique is its innovative card edge connector system that enables quick test card exchange, combined with dedicated calibrators for each measurement setup. Unlike basic test fixtures, the B-TCA features Type N connectors for superior connection repeatability and covers an exceptionally wide frequency range from DC to 450 MHz, making it ideal for high-frequency component characterisation.