A method for determining a calibration value for a RF power control loop. The RF power control loop includes an error amplifier (30) having an output for outputting an indication (EAO) of a difference between an actual RF output power and a desired RF output power. The method includes steps of (a) commanding an RF output power; (b) measuring the output of the error amplifier; (c) comparing the measured output of the error amplifier to a reference value; and (d) iterating the steps of commanding, measuring and comparing. Generally, the reference value has a magnitude that is a function of an RF power amplifier gain control voltage. More particularly, the reference value has a magnitude that is less than a magnitude of the RF amplifier control voltage threshold level, above which the RF amplifier begins to output RF energy. In a preferred embodiment the reference value has a magnitude that is about one half of a magnitude of the RF amplifier control voltage threshold level above which the RF amplifier begins to output RF energy.