The Keysight N2101B is a 3-slot wide PXI module that integrates a high-accuracy clock source, data pattern generator, and error detector to function as a 10.3125 Gb/s Bit Error Ratio Tester (BERT). It performs automated bit error ratio analysis for device characterization and quality assessment, delivering BERT functionality in a form factor significantly smaller than conventional benchtop instruments.
Technical Specifications
Data Rates
• 10 standard internal rates: 155 Mb/s to 8.5 Gb/s
• Supports any rate up to 10.3125 Gb/s when used with external synthesizer (e.g., Keysight N2099A)
Data Patterns
• PRBS patterns: 2ⁿ − 1 where n = 7, 9, 11, 15, 23, 31
• K28.5, K28.7, and CR patterns
• User-defined patterns: up to 2048 bits maximum, or 16 Kbytes if pattern length is integer multiple of 64 bits
Signal Interface
• Differential data generation and analysis
• AC coupled signals with 50-ohm termination (unless otherwise specified)
Measurement Capabilities
• Bit error ratio analysis and bit error display over time
• Automatic clock and data alignment
• Jitter Bathtub display and analysis
• Eye opening measurement and extrapolation to defined error rates
• Error injection: single error or error rate injection modes
– Key Features
• Integrated pattern generation, clock synthesis, and error detection reduce component count and system complexity
• PXI form factor enables integration into modular test platforms
• Supports multiple BERT modules within single PXI chassis for parallel or multi-channel testing
– Typical Applications
• High-speed serial link characterization and validation
• Device quality assessment across telecommunications and datacom standards
• Jitter analysis and eye diagram measurements
– Compatibility & Integration
Platform Support
• PXI-1, PXI-H, and PCI chassis compatible
System Integration
• Works with Keysight N2100B Digital Communication Analyzer, N2102B Pattern Generator, N2099A synthesizer, or multiple N2101B modules in single chassis
Control & Development
• Windows application control panel included
• DLL with ActiveX Control wrapper for custom application development
• Driver support: MATLAB, LabVIEW, IVI-COM, IVI-C
• Compatible with Microsoft Windows XP (32-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Latest software version: A.04.00
Status: Obsolete product
