Measurement Solutions

Bit error rate testers (BERTs) are usually the initial step in communications testing. They generate digital test patterns, typically pseudorandom binary sequences (PRBSs), that drive devices under test (DUTs). After the signal is transmitted through the link, the BERT receiver captures it. This setup can be used for multiple testing purposes, such as evaluating the performance of a transmitter, a receiver, or an optical link.

Digital sampling oscilloscopes (DSO) are essential for evaluating transmitter performance using jitter and eye diagram analysis. They are sometimes used in conjunction with a BERT. The BERT generates the digital test pattern, while the oscilloscope analyses the signal after it has run through the DUT.

An optical switch box is needed so that automated test platforms can permit the system to measure the performance of transmitters and receivers at multiple wavelengths or channels. The Multilane Optical Switch Box incorporates a WDM demultiplexer, integrated power meters, variable optical attenuators, and optical switches to form an integrated switch matrix. It enables receivers and transmitters to be tested at up to four wavelengths or channels.

Loopbacks play an important role in the validation of next-generation Data Center communication systems. They emulate the exact behaviour of costlier optical transceivers and can be used to test the thermal and power loading characteristics of a system. In addition, they can be used to validate the signal integrity of host ports and test for CMIS compliance and interoperability.