Agilent unveils M8000 Series of BER test instruments
- Higher levels of integration
- Expandability to accommodate increasing data rates
- Stress calibration at the test point and de-embedding
- Analyzer equalization
- Interactive link training.
First out of the shoot is the M8020A, which (depending upon how it’s configured) will assist with receiver characterization of both single- and multilane devices. It supports one to four BERT channels with data rates of up to 8.5 Gbps and 16 Gbps with an extension to 32 Gbps. The integration of capabilities that formerly required separate boxes significantly simplifies and reduces the cost of such tests, Reser said. For example, the BERT set can support integrated jitter measurement, eight-tap de-emphasis, reference clock multipliers, DMI and CMI sources (simultaneously), and CDR and analyzer equalization. Meanwhile, the in situ calibration feature helps ensure accurate and repeatable measurements, while the interactive link training capability aids with loopback mode requirements and negotiate speed and de-emphasis interactively. This last capability is currently available for PCIe applications, but the company plans to expand the realm of applications in the future, Reser said.
Agilent also offer several test instruments that complement the M802A. They include the M8048A interference channels, N5990A test automation software, the M8061A multiplexer 2:1 with de-emphasis, the N4877A 32-Gbps clock data recovery with demultiplexer, and the 86100D Infiniium DCA-X high-bandwidth oscilloscope.
The J-BERT M8020A is currently available. Prices start at $122,200 for a one-channel 16-Gbps BERT with built-in clock recovery.
For more information on test equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.
Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher
Stephen Hardy has covered fiber optics for more than 15 years, and communications and technology for more than 30 years. He is responsible for establishing and executing Lightwave's editorial strategy across its digital magazine, website, newsletters, research and other information products. He has won multiple awards for his writing.
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