Agilent Technologies’ New 18-GHz Differential TDR Probe Kit Improves Ergonomics, Usability

Agilent Technologies’ New 18-GHz Differential TDR Probe Kit Improves Ergonomics, Usability

SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 5, 2009 Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today introduced a new probe kit for making differential time-domain reflectometry (TDR) and time-domain transition (TDT) measurements. TDR/TDT analyses are commonly performed by signal-integrity engineers during the design and validation of high-speed serial links and components. TDR/TDT measurements are also invaluable for maintaining consistent quality in printed circuit board and passive-component manufacturing.

The Agilent N1021B 18-GHz differential TDR probe kit connects printed circuit boards and other devices without connectors to the 54754A differential TDR/TDT module in the 86100C Infiniium DCA-J wideband oscilloscope mainframe. In conjunction with these hardware components, engineers can use the optional 86100C-202 enhanced impedance and S-parameter software to accurately characterize differential impedances in the time and frequency domains (for example, reflections and impedances versus time or distance, or magnitude/phase/group delay of S-parameters like SDD11/SDD21).

The probe’s flexible cables and its light, ergonomic design make it comfortable for engineers to use, even when they are probing for extended periods. Its slim body and the extended tips provide good visibility of the target, and a thumb wheel allows pitch adjustments with just one hand. Hardened tips ensure many touchdowns, and the chamfered design makes good contact, even on small pads or traces.

“The move in recent years to higher bit rates on server backplanes and consumer electronics has forced designers and manufacturers to test more physical properties,” said Scott Sampl, vice president and general manager of Agilent’s oscilloscope business. “The 86100C Infiniium DCA-J, with its signal and impedance analysis capabilities, has become an essential tool for ensuring interoperability of new designs and consistent quality in manufacturing. The new TDR differential probe complements Agilent’s already broad offering in signal integrity applications by bridging the gap between calibrated, precision coaxial-based instruments and real-world devices without connectors.”

The N1021B kit consists of all components necessary to make accurate measurements – an ergonomically designed probe body with variable pitch, a flexible yet microwave-grade matched cable pair, shorts and loads for calibration, and even an ESD wrist strap.

Additional information about Agilent’s N1021B 18-GHz differential TDR probe kit and its TDR/TDT measurements is available at www.agilent.com/find/TDR. High-resolution images are available at www.agilent.com/find/TDR_images.

U.S. Pricing and Availability

The Agilent N1021B 18-GHz differential TDR probe kit is available now at a price of $4,900.

http://www.agilent.com/about/newsroom/presrel/2009/05may-em09086.html