LeCroy SDA 740Zi-A Oscilloscope Offers 4 GHz Bandwidth

LeCroy (www.lecroy.com) helps users understand and characterize design with the release of its SDA 740Zi, a serial data analyzer based on WavePro 7 Zi-A Series.

The four channel oscilloscope offers 4GHz bandwidth and a sampling rate of up to 20 GS/s. It also comes with a large 15.4-inch WXGA Color Display.

With double the standard memory, the SDA 740Zi-A captures more unit intervals within the eye diagram. Unlike some solutions that provide problem notifications only, the SDA 740Zi-A helps users identify the problem, placing the project back on track.

Aside from LeCroy’s QualiPHY compliance test suite, it also comes with a debugging toolset that offers users with insight into eye and jitter analysis. Equipped with this insight, users can then confidently dig deeper and identify the main cause of the problem. Its Quick View function shows the TIE Track, Eye Diagram, Jitter histogram, Bathtub Curve, Jitter Spectrum and NQ-Scale.

Meanwhile, LeCroy’s X-Stream II Architecture not only provides fast update but the fastest eye interpretation as well.

With SDA 740Zi-A, Eye and Jitter Analysis starts with an interactive flow diagram user interface guiding the user intuitively through the set up of Jitter Measurements, Eye Measurements, or both.

It also feature an 80-bit Pattern Trigger as standard, while a High-speed Pattern Trigger is offered as an option.

Its 8b/10b serial decode option offers powerful search capability that allows the SDA 740Zi-A capture waveforms that will be searched for the symbol’s user defined sequences.

GW Instek GDS-3354 Oscilloscope with unique split screen feature

GW Instek (www.gwinstek.com) has introduced a four channel oscilloscope that offers a spilt screen feature to meet the demands of multi-window and multi-signal tests in research and manufacturing fields. With a record length of 25 k points, the GDS-3354 delivers a real-time sampling rate of five GSa/s and an equivalent time sampling rate of up to 100 GSa/s.

This 350 MHz oscilloscope also offers a rise time of 1ns and a vertical resolution of eight bits.

Its unique split screen feature enables each input channel to be independently operated with respective waveform display and setting. The vertical sensitivity, trigger selections and time base can be separately performed by each channel, while the waveform of every input signal can be displayed on the screen’s individual part. The almost four-DSO-in one feature is useful for applications that have to simultaneously view the details of multiple waveforms with varying characteristics. This eight-inch high resolution 800×600 LCD display offers a pleasant viewing environment to observe the details of complex signals.

Aside from edge trigger, the oscilloscope’s advanced trigger functions also include Pulse Width, Video, Rise Time and Fall Time, Delay by Time, Alternate, Delay by Event, Runt and Hold-off. Its VPO signal processing and display, high sampling rate and flexible trigger function all contribute to make the GDS-3354 a potent tool for waveform capture as well as display of different kinds of signals.

The oscilloscope’s Auto Range function automatically adjusts the vertical scale and/or the time base of the displayed waveform when the amplitude and/or frequency of the input signal change.

Meanwhile, the Zoom function of the oscilloscope offers dual display mode to simultaneously show the main waveform as well as the magnified portion of the zoomed-in waveform.

Tips to achieve better oscilloscope measurements

Most engineers always have so much to do but not enough time to do them. Thus, they wanted an oscilloscope that will help them reduce the time spent on researching how to make a measurement, and spend more of it in troubleshooting.

Although some high-performance oscilloscopes make it easier for engineers to accomplish simple tasks, providing them with easy access to advanced functionality, this article also offers some tips on how they can increase their effectiveness in making critical measurements.

First, never forget to check the probe. Engineers usually forget to check probe compensation prior to making amplitude measurements on the sinewaves, particularly when their not working with a fast risetime. However, they tend to ignore the fact that risetimes within the measurement system of the oscilloscope also have its effect, which can cause errors when measuring signals.

Second is to find a quick way to troubleshoot mixed hardware/software prototypes. Troubleshooting and designing hardware driven with software commonly requires engineers to look at complex and lengthy bit streams. This is solved by finding an unused I/O pin, which they can use as a trigger point, and inserting the code into the software to easily toggle the pin at the right time. This process help engineers save the trouble of learning complex oscilloscope features, while providing them full control through SW of where the trigger will occur.

The third tip is to use two oscilloscope channels when measuring low frequency signals. To quickly eliminate the noise, users should set one input to ac coupling and the other to dc coupling, while ensuring that both carry similar amplitude range. The oscilloscope should then be set to display CH1 – CH2 (or invert one of the channels and add them), with both probes applied on the test point. This will subtract out the ac component, leaving only the ac component that is lower than the oscilloscope’s ac coupling frequency and the dc component.

The fourth tip is to be intimate with the noise. When chasing unknown intermittent noise source, it helps to know more about it. One useful characteristic is to determine the initial noise transition’s direction. If it is negative-going, the change could be caused by a voltage drop. If it is positive, it could be caused by some kind of inductive surge.

The next tip is to create a “bargain basement” magnetic probe. This is done by connecting the ground lead of the oscilloscope probe to its tip. Engineers can then sniff out oscillations including other sources of the noise on the DUT without even touching it. This will also help engineers check cabinets for EMC leaks and determine optimal cable routing. It should be noted that when snooping, magnetic signals are at their strongest whenever the loop is at 90° to the signal.

Finally, it is worth noting that custom graticules work for almost any oscilloscope. Although oscilloscopes nowadays offer specialized measurements on complex waveforms such as eye diagrams, it is sometimes simpler and faster to work with the device on hand. Consider using easily available and cheap materials such as Chartpak tape as well as transparency materials to make templates that can be taped on the oscilloscope screen. This allows users to work from templates found in specification documents or make templates from “golden waveforms” that were captured on screen.

TDS3012C Digital Phosphor Oscilloscope values time and money

Tektronix (www.tek.com) has unveiled a 100 MHz oscilloscope that boasts efficient performance and affordable pricing. With a maximum real-time sampling rate of 1.25 GS/s, the TDS3012C features a record length of up to 10 kpoints and a vertical resolution of nine bits.

The oscilloscope seamlessly combines 3,600 wfms/s continuous waveform capture rate along with real-time intensity grading, enabling users to easily determine the problem. With high-speed waveform capture rates, time is saved by quickly revealing the nature of faults, allowing the applications of advanced triggers in order to isolate them.

Its real-time intensity grading aims to highlight details on the history of the signal’s activity, making it easier to identify the characteristics of the waveforms captured.

With the TDS3012C, the history stays even after stopping the acquisition — a feature lacking in other oscilloscopes.

The dual channel oscilloscope combines the unique digital real-time (DRT) sampling technology together with the sin(x)/x interpolation to accurately characterize a wider range of signal types on all channels.

Unlike other comparable oscilloscope, the sampling rate does not change when additional channels are turned on. This technology allows the capture of high-frequency information, like edge anomalies and glitches.

The TDS3012C oscilloscope also helps users reduce learning curve, with its time-efficient simple navigation and dedicated front-panel controls.

The oscilloscope also comes equipped with a USB host port that may be used to store and transfer measurement information with ease to a PC.

PicoScope 4226 ideal for vibration, noise and mechanical analysis

Pico Technology (www.picotech.com) has introduced a dual channel precision USB oscilloscope that is ideal for scientific, general and field-service use. With 50 MHz bandwidth, the PicoScope 4226 delivers a maximum real-time sampling rate of 125 MS/s and memory depth of 32 MS.

The oscilloscope offers one percent accuracy and 12-bit resolution, which is adjustable to a maximum of 16 bits in enhanced resolution mode, making it an excellent choice for vibration, noise and mechanical analysis.

Since it is powered by a USB 2.0 interface, the PicoScope 4226 eliminates the need for users to carry batteries or an external power supply. In addition, the USB port provides the PC with high-speed data, effectively offering users with a high-resolution, responsive display. This makes the PicoScope 4226 one of the fastest 12-bit USB-powered oscilloscopes offered in the market.

Users can now easily capture all the details of the waveform as the oscilloscope does not compromise between performance and buffer size. With its 32 MS buffer ‘always on’, the oscilloscope can simultaneously maximize display update rate and buffer size.

PicoScope 4226 is specifically designed with PicoScope oscilloscope software, which offers users with a complete test and measurement lab in a single easy-to-use application. Aside from being a fully-functioning oscilloscope packed with advanced features such as math functions, digital persistence and automated measurements, the PicoScope 4226 can also be used as a function generator, spectrum analyzer and an arbitrary waveform generator.

Fluke 190-102 ScopeMeter offers highest safety rating

Fluke (www.fluke.com) has released a dual channel oscilloscope that seamlessly combines the rugged portability and highest safety rating with the bench oscilloscope’s high performance.

Featuring 100 MHz bandwidth and a maximum real-time sampling rate of 1.25 GS/s, the Fluke 190-102 Color ScopeMeter is one of the first oscilloscopes to be safety rated CAT III 1000V/CAT IV 600V.

Specifically designed for plant technicians and maintenance engineers, these oscilloscopes can test virtually anything, from microelectronics to power electronics applications, even in dirty, harsh and hazardous industrial conditions.

It offers two USB ports that are electrically isolated from measurement input circuits, providing users with convenient USB connectivity to USB memory devices or a PC. This also allows users to store unlimited screen captures, waveform or instrument setups to a memory device. Using FlukeView software for windows, the oscilloscope can instantly connect to a PC USB interface to archive critical measurement data.

Fluke 190-102 also features Connect-and-View. This function allows the oscilloscope to automatically set up triggering by recognizing signal patterns. Users get a reliable, stable and repeatable display of almost any signal, that includes motor drive and control signals.

Its Stop-on-Trigger mode enables the oscilloscope to automatically recognize power failure and store the waveform data that precedes it, while the waveform zoom functions allows users to view even the smallest details, such as individual power cycles.

Meanwhile, its TrendPlot function can also locate faults caused by dust, bad connections, corrosion, dirt or simply by broken connectors or wiring.

Tips to save time when using an economy oscilloscope

When operating on a tight budget and in need of a new oscilloscope, users would often settle for an oscilloscope that features bare bones capability. However, with the economy oscilloscopes offered in the market nowadays, users need not suffer for their limited budget. They simply have to consider these five simple tips.

For optimum results, users should first consider the bandwidth, memory depth and sample rate of the oscilloscope.

The oscilloscope’s main function is to deliver an accurate representation of the signal viewed, and the combination of bandwidth, memory depth and sample rate determines the oscilloscope’s ability to accurately display the signal. To ensure that the oscilloscope has adequate bandwidth, users should consider the fastest signal rise time that needs to be viewed and use the formula:

Scope bandwidth = 2 X signal bandwidth, where signal bandwidth =1/ (2 X signal rise time).

To avoid missing key signal transitions, the sampling rate of the oscilloscope should be at least four times than its bandwidth.

Users should also select an economy oscilloscope with deeper memory. This enables the oscilloscope to store more data points over the acquisition period, allowing users to view the entire signal and still zoom in on specific areas of interest.

The second tip is to use the oscilloscope’s built-in measurement capability to eliminate errors and save time.

When recording critical information about the signal, such as peak-to-peak voltage or frequency, most of today’s economy oscilloscopes eliminate the need for manual effort and tendency for errors in calculations or readings. These oscilloscopes can calculate and display various voltage and time measurements with a simple touch of a button.

The third tip is — when in doubt as to how to trigger on the problem, users should utilize sequence mode to isolate specific areas of interest. Once the unexpected anomalies have been identified, users can refine the trigger conditions to determine the root cause.

When making the next oscilloscope decision, users should consider whether the sequence mode would provide benefits in their common tasks.

The next tip is to use pass/fail (go/no-go) mask testing to isolate problems or to make quick decisions.

Mask testing can be a very helpful tool as it allows users to know whether certain signals have to be within specific ranges for the design to properly work. Several economy oscilloscopes offer this kind of capability, enabling users to capture a “golden” waveform as well as define tolerance limits for correct performance.

The last tip is to consider usability. Users should choose an oscilloscope that features menus that are easy to navigate, showing the choices in dropdown selections. One of the clearest time savers is simultaneously displaying on the screen the entire captured waveform and the specific area of interest that the user have zoomed in. This allows users to view the big picture as well as the details of the signal all at once.

Agilent DSO91308A Infiniium Oscilloscope guarantees fast and reliable measurements

Agilent (www.agilent.com) has specifically engineered the DSO91308A Infiniium High-Performance Oscilloscope to meet even most demanding requirements by offering features that ensure reliable and fast measurements.

This eight channel oscilloscope offers 13 GHz bandwidth, eight-bit resolution and a maximum real-time sampling rate of 40 GS/s.

Inspired by the award winning Infiniium DSO90000A Series oscilloscopes, the DSO91308A is one of the most cost-saving, space-efficient, LXI-C compliant oscilloscope that offers unrivalled real-time measurement accuracy.

A digital CMOS integrated circuit serves as the memory as well as the acquisition controller component of the oscilloscope’s acquisition system. Designed to memorize and capture eight-bit digital data, it features a high-speed data demultiplexer and on-board memory.

Its InfiniiSim toolset allows users to seamlessly combine models and measurements to view simulated oscilloscope measurement results in any of the design’s location. With this tool, users can also easily acquire real-time oscilloscope data, import design models (transfer or s-parameter functions) and transform to the required measurement location.

Using the 89601A vector signal, users can expand the measurement capability of the DSO91308A oscilloscope. This DSP-based software conveniently takes the digitized signal data from the oscilloscope while displaying wide-bandwidth digital modulation analysis and FFT-based spectrum analysis for wireless communication signals like cdma2000 and WCDMA as well as wireless networking signals such as 802.16 WiMax and 802.11 WiFi.

The oscilloscope also features an EZJIT analysis software, which allows users to evaluate and characterize even the most commonly required jitter measurements such as N-cycle, cycle-cycle, time-interval, period, setup and hold time, error, measurement trending, histogram and jitter spectrum.

Oscilloscope Module Characterizes 10-Gb/s to 32-Gb/s Designs

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) introduced a precision waveform analyzer for design verification and validation of high-speed electrical communications systems and components.

The 86108B precision waveform analyzer has residual jitter below 50 femtoseconds, channel bandwidths to 50 GHz, and integrated clock recovery to 32 Gb/s. This new plug-in module is the latest addition to the Agilent 86100C/D DCA wide-bandwidth oscilloscope family.

This device is well-suited for testing IEEE 802.3ba (40-Gb/100-Gb Ethernet), Optical Internetworking Forum CEI 3.0, INCITS T-11 32G Fibre Channel and high-speed proprietary systems. The 86108B’s integrated precision timebase and clock recovery design, with typical residual jitter below 50 fs rms, enables it to minimize potential measurement problems.

Continuous data-rate coverage from 50 Mb/s to 32 Gb/s, peaking control and adjustable loop bandwidths to 20 MHz also allow the clock recovery circuit to provide a phase-locked-loop response for accurate device characterization.

The integrated instrumentation-grade clock recovery circuit allows the module to trigger directly from single-ended or differential data signals eliminating a separate trigger input. The module also integrates high-bandwidth pickoffs and phase-matched cables, which reduces setup complexity and maintains signal integrity.

An auxiliary clock-recovery input circuit lets you analyze extremely low-level signals, or signals that have been closed due to severe inter-symbol interference, by triggering the scope using a separate synchronous data (or clock) signal connected to the 86108B’s auxiliary CR input. The on-board phase detector enables a flexible and accurate technique to determine PLL bandwidth/peaking on devices with either clock or data inputs and outputs.

The cost of the system (an 86100D mainframe plus the 86108B module) is below comparable real-time or equivalent-time oscilloscope units. It is available with bandwidth options of 35 GHz and 50 GHz and clock recovery data-rate options of 16 Gb/s and 32 Gb/s. Both bandwidth and clock recovery options are upgradeable, so users can enhance their instruments as their designs warrant.

Agilent’s high-speed digital solutions offer a range of essential tools to help engineers design and simulate, analyze, debug and ensure compliant designs while cutting through the challenges of gigabit digital designs.

Agilent Technologies
www.agilent.com

 

 

 

Fluke 123 Industrial Scopemeter comes in rugged, drip proof case

Fluke (www.fluke.com) has released a 20 MHz oscilloscope that meets today’s need of simultaneously checking and measuring waveforms. Combining the functionality of an oscilloscope, a dual-input TrendPlot recorder and true-RMS digital multimeters in one compact package, the Fluke 123 Industrial Scopemeter features a rugged and drip proof case that assures users of long service life and reliable operation even in the harshest industrial environments.

Since it is battery operated, the oscilloscope effectively eliminates the need for main outlets. It also features a handheld format and weighs only 1.2 kg, making it easy to carry while fitting comfortably in the hands of the user.

With Connect-and-View automatic triggering, users need not worry of triggering as well as instrument setting, as the oscilloscope provides all the information on the screen.

Unlike traditional oscilloscopes that take measurements referenced to power line ground, the Fluke 123 does not run the risk of accidental ground short circuit as it can make floating measurements.

Its shielded test leads can take various measurements including waveform-, capacitance-, resistance- and meter-measurements. This enables users to save time in swapping or finding leads.

The Fluke 123 as well as its shielded test leads have been safety certified for 600 V CAT III industrial power systems. With the VPS40 probe, the oscilloscope can also measure up to 100 V CAT II, while its optically isolated USB interface or RS-232 allows the oscilloscope to be connected to a PC for analysis and documentation or to a printer for a direct print-out.

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