HP / Agilent 8118A 100Mbit/s PULSE PATTERN GENERATOR

The HP/Agilent 8118A is a dual-channel, 100 Mbit/s pulse pattern generator engineered for precise signal generation across IC, module, and board-level testing. This benchtop instrument delivers programmable pulse control with output data rates up to 100 Mbit/s in NRZ format, supporting RZ and DNRZ modes at speeds to 50 Mbit/s. The 8118A generates complex digital patterns including word sequences (3 to 256 bit words, up to 3640 words per pattern), random patterns up to 16384 bits, and PRBS sequences. Each channel provides 16 KB of pattern memory and independently programmable pulse parameters: minimum pulse width of 10 ns, maximum width of 950 ms, period range from 20 ns to 950 ms, and delay range from 75 ns to 950 ms. Output impedance is 50 Ω with maximum voltage swing to 16 V and 1% output accuracy. Gate-triggered operation and built-in parametric capabilities enable combined digital pattern and signal degradation testing. HPIB interface supports remote instrument control and automated test sequences. Designed for indoor benchtop operation (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH, ≤2000 m altitude). The unit is out of production since November 1993 and out of support since October 1998, though third-party calibration and repair services remain available.