The Agilent/Keysight E4853A is a serial cell generator and analyzer module for high-speed burst-mode data testing in telecommunications and networking environments. It integrates one serial cell generator and one analyzer into a single VXI-based instrument, delivering precise bit-error-rate measurement and flexible pattern generation across a wide bit rate range. Housed within a VXI mainframe such as the Keysight E1401B, the E4853A supports multiple cascaded modules for scalable test system configurations.
Technical Specifications
Pattern Generation
• Algorithmic patterns: PRBS (2^n–1) with n = 7, 9, 10, 11, 15, 17, 20, 21, 23, 31 per CCITT O.151
• Memory-based patterns: 64 Kbit to 1024 Kbit programmable depths per channel
• Bit rate: 170 kbit/s to 250 Mbit/s standard; up to 660 Mbit/s with Option 660
• Cell structure: Variable length and timing with up to 28 mixed PRBS and user-defined pattern segments per cell
• Output formats: Normal and inverted signals
Bit-Error-Rate Analysis
• System clock for all generators and analyzers
• External analyzer clock from recovered DUT output
• Single sampling point per bit
• Required eye-opening: >50% of bit period and >1 ns (standard); >400 ps with external analyzer clock
• Analyzer clock input frequency: 170 kHz to 250 MHz standard; 330 MHz to 660 MHz with Option 660
Control and Timing
• Multiple control signals triggerable from generated cells, analyzer expected cells, or frame start
• Linked timing to DUT stimulation and external equipment
– Key Features
• Supports up to 28 pattern segments per cell for complex burst scenarios
• Recovers timing from Device Under Test via external analyzer clock input
• Accommodates input jitter and wander within specified eye-opening constraints
• Optional auxiliary output (Option 001) and clock input module (Option 002)
– Typical Applications
• High-speed serial data link characterization and validation
• Burst-mode receiver and transmitter BER testing
• Telecommunications equipment verification
• Data networking system analysis
– Compatibility & Integration
Designed for VXI mainframe integration, particularly the Keysight E1401B 13-slot C-size frame. Multiple E4853A modules cascade within a single system for parallel test channels and expanded capacity.
