Introduction: A reference step-like pulse generator is described which has been developed at NBS. This generator can be used for accurately characterizing the step response of various kinds of trap ient recording equipment (oscilloscopes, waveform recorders, transient digitizers, etc.). Basic design principles are given as well as complete circuit diagrams and descriptions. An analysis of the output stage of the generator is presented together with the circuit models for developing a time-domain computer simulation program using extended- SCEPTRE. Preliminary specifications indicate that the NBS Reference Flat Pulse Generator provides a negative-going reference transition duration (90 to 10 percent) of 600 ps, *20 percent with baseline perturbations of less than *2 percent for less than 5 ns.

From preface: STARPAC documentation is being published as a series of Technical Notes. This Note is the first in the series. It gives an overview of the STARPAC library, defines conventions used in the documentation, provides an example using STARPAC subroutines, and presents general background material. This Note includes information which is essential for using the STARPAC library, and users should be familiar with its contents before attempting to use any STARPAC subroutine.

From preface: This Note documents 16 subroutines for nonlinear least squares regression. Twelve of these compute the least squares estimates, performing either weighted or unweighted analysis with either numerically approximated or user-supplied (analytic) derivatives. The other four are user-callable subroutines for two procedures used within the estimation code: the first selects optimum step sizes for approximating the partial derivatives of the model; and the second checks the validity of a user-supplied derivative subroutine.

Abstract: The problem of measuring and characterizing complicated multiple-source, multiple-frequency electromagnetic environments is becoming more important and more difficult as electrical devices proliferate. This paper outlines three general approaches to the problem which are currently under investigation at the National Bureau of Standards. The three approaches are: 1) a statistical treatment of the spatial distribution of electromagnetic field intensities, 2) a numerical computation using a finite-difference (or lattice) form of the electromagnetic action functional, and 3) use of a directional probe to scan a volume. All three methods are still in the development stage, but each appears promising.

Abstract: In electromagnetic susceptibility testing of electronic equipment, the ideal incident field is a plane wave. To approximate this condition, a seven-element array of Yagi-Uda antennas has been constructed and tested at a frequency of 500 MHz. The element weightings are determined by a near-field synthesis technique which optimizes the uniformity of the field throughout a rectangular test volume in the near field of the array. The amplitude and phase of the electric field have been measured throughout the test volume with a short dipole probe, and the agreement with the theory is excellent.

Abstract: An expression is developed for net power delivered to a load in terms of the indicated forward and reflected power and the system S-parameters and reflection coefficients. The dual directional coupler is treated as nonideal with power reflections assumed between all ports. The system itself is used to evaluate the major S-parameter terms in net power computation, and uncertainty in the computed power is derived from origins in the power meter readings and incompletely known S-parameters.

From abstract: This paper presents the conflicts in the design and gives a solution. The complete evaluation requires assembly of the proposed apparatus to assess final accuracy.

From introduction: In this report the following will he discussed: (1) design consideration of the broadband magnetic field sensor, (2) overall design of the magnetic field meter, (3) performance of the meter, (4) calibration and operating procedures, (5) alignment and adjustment procedures, and (6) summary and conclusions.

Abstract: Selected publications of the Ion Storage Group of the Time and Frequency Division, NBS, Boulder, Colorado.

Abstract: A general theoretical approach is formulated to describe the complex electromagnetic environment of an N-element array. The theory reveals the element-to-element interactions and multiple reflections within the array. From the formulation, it is found that the interaction between an excited element and an open-circuited element can be viewed as the sum of terms describing all possible signal paths within the array environment which start from the radiating element and terminate on the element under observation. Within all paths except the most direct one, multiple reflections between subgroups of elements take place. The resulting solution is highly structured and recursive and is discussed in detail in the text. Illustrative examples are provided to facilitate understanding of these ideas.

Abstract: Custody transfer tables are presented for oxygen, argon, nitrogen, helium, and hydrogen. The tables are based on standard reference data previously compiled by the National Bureau of Standards. Two sets of tables are provided for each fluid. Tables in engineering units cover the range -40 to 130*F with pressures from 100 to 10,000 prig. Tables in SI units (density versus pressure and temperature) cover the range 200 to 370 K with pressures from 0.5 to 70 MPa. The tables in engineering units are designed to provide a means of determining the volume of gas at standard conditions contained in a tank given the volume of the tank and the pressure and temperature of the gas within the tank. The publication also includes four examples of use of the tables in calculating tank quantities.

Forward: The purpose of this report is to summarize the results obtained from a brief investigation of supercritical fluid extraction principles and applications. This study was one portion of a project funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Fossil Energy, contract nuriber DE-AI01076PR06010, in response to a preliminary proposal submitted by the authors. This report sometimes uses company trade naries to identify processes and patent holders. This usage implies no endorsement by HBS. Note also that some figures reproduced from other sources do not conform with NBS policy concerning SI units.

From introduction: Simple, precise expressions for lunar diameter, average brightness temperature, flux density, and shape factor are presented. An analysis of the relationship between these parameters and corresponding errors are included. For broadbeam (HPBW>d) antennas, results show that flux density and shape factor can be determined with errors less than 13 percent and 0.4 percent respectively at frequencies below 10 GHz. Extension of the analysis to higher frequencies is indicated.

From introduction: This note describes the design and construction of a coaxial thermal noise standard. The standard is designed to operate at the boiling point of liquid nitrogen with a noise temperature accurate to t 1 K in the frequency range from 1 GHz to 12.4 GHz.

From abstract: The thermophysical and transport properties of selected fluids have been programmed in FORTRAN 77 which is available for micro computers. The input variables are any two of P, p, T (pressure, density, and temperature) in the single phase regions, and either P or T for the saturated liquid or vapor states. The output is pressure, density, temperature, internal energy, enthalpy, entropy, specific heat capacities (Cp and Cv), speed of sound and, in most cases, viscosity, thermal conductivity and dielectric constant.

From introduction: This note describes the design and error analysis of a WR10 thermal noise power standard. The standard is designed to operate at the boiling point of liquid nitrogen with a noise temperature accurate to plus or minus 1 K.

From introduction: The feasibility of using a near-field array for electromagnetic susceptibility testing is studied. The basic objective is to control the element weightings such that a plane wave is generated within the test volume. The basic theory is developed for arbitrary array geometries, and numerical results are obtained for finite planar arrays. A general near-field array synthesis technique is developed, and the technique minimizes the mean square error in the test volume while constraining the array excitations. The constraint prevents large excitations and is useful in minimizing the fields outside the test volume. The basic idea looks promising, but some practical considerations, such as bandwidth and angular scanning limitations, require further theoretical and experimental investigation.

Abstract: This report describes a system based on electromagnetic-acoustic transducers (EMATs) as an approach to automated nondestructive evaluation of thick weldments (>25 mm). Good signal-to-noise ratios, often a problem with EMATs, were possibTe through careful design of the transducers and associated electronic circuits and the use of signal averaging. At 454 kHz, the transducers produce shear-horizontal waves of approximately 7-mm wavelength in steel. The long wavelength permits determination of through-thickness flaw depth from the amplitudes of scattered ultrasonic waves. A minicomputer controlled transducer positioning and acquired the digitized ultrasonic waveforms for synthetic aperture processing. The synthetic aperture technique further improved signal quality and yielded flaw localization through the weld thickness. Measurements on artificial flaws demonstrated a detectability threshold of 0.5 mm (through thickness) and sizing ability up to 2.5 mm, in agreement with theoretical predictions. Details include the design of the transducers and electronics, as well as the mechanical positioner, signal processing algorithms, and complete computer program listing.

Introduction: Small aperture theory is used to investigate the dual TEM cell. Analyzing coupling through an empty versus a loaded aperture leads to a model of dual TEM cell shielding effectiveness measurements. Small obstacle scattering yields results for both the field perturbation and the change in a cell's transmission line characteristics due to the presence of a test object in a TEM cell. In each case, theoretical values are compared to experimental data.

From abstract: I propose the use of a template method for quantitative, correct, and transparent measurement of signal power to additive noise power ratios (SNR) of digital signals and systems under full operating conditions. Outer guard chips of digital templates hold intersymbol interference fixed on inner target chips in realizations of the respective template patterns in traffic. The proposed template method needs to be developed and proven as a potentially valuable metrology capability; it can be especially important for real time online performance assessment and monitoring of digital communication systems.

From abstract: This paper describes a Bessel null technique to measure the frequency response of a frequency-modulated rf carrier and a program to automate frequency response measurements of signal generators with output frequencies from 0.450 to 2000 MHz. The measurements obtained using this technique are more precise than those obtained by a highly trained technician using a manual system.

Abstract: Electroexplosive devices (EEDs) are electrically fired explosive initiators used in a wide variety of applications. The nature of most of these applications requires that the devices function with near certainty when required and remain inactive otherwise. Recent concern with pulsed electromagnetic interference (EMI) and nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) made apparent the lack of methodology for assessing EED vulnerability. A new and rigorous approach for characterizing EED firing levels is developed in the context of statistical linear models and is demonstrated in this paper. We combine statistical theory and methodology with thermodynamic modeling to determine the probability that an EED, of a particular type, fires when excited by a pulse of a given width and amplitude. The results can be applied to any type of EED for which the hot-wire explosive binder does not melt below the firing temperature. Included are methods.for assessing model validity and for obtaining probability plots, called "Firing Likelihood Plots". A method of measuring the thermal time constant of an EED is given. This parameter is necessary to evaluate the effect of a train of pulses. These statistical methods are both more general and more efficient than previous methods for EED assessment. The results provide information …

Abstract: Shielding effectiveness relates to a material's ability to reduce the transmission of propagating fields in order to electromagnetically isolate one region from another. Because a complex material's shielding capability is difficult to predict, it often must be measured. A number of measurement approaches are studied including the use of a shielded room, coaxial transmission line holders, time domain signals, the dual TEM cell, and an apertured TEM cell in a reverberation chamber. In each case, we consider the system's frequency range, test sample requirements, test field type, dynamic range, time required, analytical background, and present data taken on a common set of materials.

Abstract: Results of a research program to develop fitness-for-service criteria for assessing the significance of fatigue cracks in offshore structures are presented in five papers. Each paper describes the goals and approaches to a specific task and details the results of the study.