Pico PG911 [PP977] USB Differential Pulse Generator

The PicoSource PG911 Differential Pulse Generator is a  high-speed, low-cost, fast-transition instrument that can test transmission paths with a fast pulse, instantly simulating a wide-spectrum signal. It is ideal for high-speed broadband measurements such as time-domain reflectometry, semiconductor testing, gigabit port testing, and radar systems. It can create pulses with less than 60ps rise-time with a variable 2.5V to 6V output.

The USB-connected PG911 offers differential outputs with programmable de-skew in 1ps steps. De-skewing allows timing inequalities in test connections and fixtures to be nulled out, or the deliberate introduction of timing skew to stress-test a system. Each of the outputs can also function in single-ended mode.  It can simulate broad spectral signals driving a 50 ohm cable to a device under test, with the reflected or transmitted pulse monitored and displayed by a broadband or sampling oscilloscope, such as a Picoscope 9300 20GHz Sampling Oscilloscope. This Time Domain Reflection analysis is widely used for testing very fast data paths such as Ethernet, USB, HDMI, SATA, RF, radar and microwave devices, cables, networks and other high speed equipment.

The PG911, with integral step-recovery diode outputs, offers a transition time of < 60ps with a large and adjustable output swing of 2.5 V to 6 V on each output. These pulses can support high dynamic range and long-distance measurements and can exercise all signal amplitudes in most transmission systems and devices. Connected via USB to a PC running Microsoft Windows, the PicoSource PG911 Generator offers a compact and economical TDR instrument, with the added advantage of the PC’s high-resolution graphical display and easy setup via keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen. The reasonable cost and extreme portability of the PG911 now brings RF and microwave test to many on-site measurement situations, and thus can form an essential part of a broadband technician’s toolkit.