General considerations in the metrology of the environmental sensitivities of standard frequency generators: IEEE Standards Ctte. P1193 Working Group 6 Report

In order to provide guidelines for standardized tests and methods for measuring and characterizing the environmental sensitivities of precision oscillators, the IEEE is preparing a standards document. As part of that effort (Project P1193), general experimental considerations and analytical techniques are reviewed. Environmental effects on precision oscillators may be evaluated by: (1) identification of relevant parameters and transducing factors through correlation and spectral analyses; (2) control or removal of systematic effects (through curve-fitting, differentiation, etc.); and (3) evaluation of residual random errors by means of two-sample variances and covariances and an error budget analysis. Given an adequate measurement system, frequency reference, and control over experimental conditions, optimal data reduction involves choices as to parameter range, sampling time, averaging process, and mathematical model. >