The Wandel & Goltermann PCM4 is a microprocessor-controlled test instrument for installation, maintenance, and monitoring of Pulse Code Modulation systems. It encodes and decodes telecommunications signals across PCM and Voice Frequency formats, integrating analog and digital signal generation with dual-channel receive capability. Internal self-calibration and advanced Digital Signal Processing deliver high-accuracy measurements near theoretical PCM limits.
Technical Specifications
The PCM4 supports A-Law and µ-Law encoding standards. It performs analog-to-analog (A-A), analog-to-digital (A-D), digital-to-analog (D-A), and digital-to-digital (D-D) half-channel measurements. The instrument decodes voice and data signals from PCM, PDH, and SDH formats at data rates from 2.047 Mbps to 2.048 Mbps. It tests digital signal pairs including T1, ISDN, and E1 protocols and validates individual codec modules via 64 kbit/s interfaces. Transmultiplexer measurements are supported.
– Key Features
• 24 distinct measurement modes with automated testing routines
• Setup chaining capability—up to 40 sequences for continuous test automation
• Modular architecture: mainframe, PCM Plug-in Units (PIUs), and Electronic Line Presets (ELPs)
• Integral display with numerical readouts and graphical outputs (gain vs. frequency, gain vs. input level, total distortion)
• Histogram display modes: idle channel noise, crosstalk, bit error count
• Selectable X and Y range controls for measurement optimization
• Exportable results compatible with plotter devices
• Expandable configuration with accessory integration (hardware modules, software packages, cables, connectors)
– Typical Applications
Development, production, and calibration environments requiring PCM signal validation. Installation and maintenance workflows for digital telecommunications networks. Quality assurance testing of voice and data signal integrity across legacy and modern transport systems.
– Compatibility & Integration
The modular design accommodates multiple interface options. The PCM4 integrates with standard telecommunications test setups through its plug-in unit architecture and supports external connectivity via cables and connectors specified by application requirements.
