The HP Agilent 70843B is a high-speed error performance analyzer for digital communication systems operating from 0.1 to 12 Gbit/s. It functions as a bit error rate tester (BERT), pattern generator, and error detector, delivering precise BER measurements, error location analysis, and jitter characterization. Built on the Hewlett-Packard MMS system II cabinet platform, the 70843B provides the PSU and control hardware required for comprehensive signal integrity testing across modern high-speed interfaces.
Technical Specifications
• Bit rate range: 0.1 to 12 Gbit/s
• Transition time (rise/fall): Less than 30 ps
• Jitter: Less than 20 ps peak-to-peak; less than 15 ps peak-to-peak at 10 Gb/s
• Pattern lengths: 2^7-1, 2^10-1, 2^15-1, 2^23-1, 2^31-1; user-generated patterns from 1 bit to 8 Mbits
• Data output: ECL or variable amplitude 0.5 V to 2 V peak-to-peak into 50 Ω; high level +1.5 V to −3.0 V
• Sub-rate outputs: 4 data + 1 clock at 1/4 main data rate, 0.5 V to 1 V peak-to-peak amplitude
• Data input sensitivity: Less than 50 mV peak-to-peak (typical) at 10 Gb/s
• Decision threshold range: +1 V to −3 V with 1 mV resolution
• Termination voltage: Selectable 0 V or −2 V nominal
• Clock input frequency: 100 MHz to 12 GHz; sensitivity less than 200 mV peak-to-peak (typical) at 10 Gb/s; DC coupled, 50 Ω
• Clock/data delay: Adjustable up to 1 ns; 1 ps resolution above 500 Mb/s
– Key Features
• Error detection and counting: errored ones, zeros, and all logic errors
• Measurement modes: error count/ratio, errored seconds, deciseconds, centiseconds, milliseconds, and G.821 analysis
• Error location capture (Option UHJ): identifies systematic error sources
• HP-IB (IEEE 488) interface for remote operation and automated test integration
• MSIB control interface with DB-37 connectivity
• Input voltage: 115/230 VAC
– Typical Applications
Designed for validation of high-speed serial interfaces in data communications, optical transport, and semiconductor test environments requiring accurate jitter and BER analysis at gigabit rates.
– Compatibility & Integration
Option UHF configures the module as a complete error performance analysis system with pattern generation and error detection capabilities. Remote control via HP-IB enables integration into automated test platforms.
