Keysight Physical Layer Test System(PLTS) 2018 Key Features & Specifications Breakthrough spatial resolution of 6 picoseconds with N5291A PNA mm-wave system (900 Hz to 120 GHz) Python-based math function support for remote programming and automation 64-port S-parameter analysis for post-measurement characterization Description NEW PLTS 2018 Breakthrough Spatial Resolution of 6 Picoseconds The new Physical Layer Test System (PLTS) 2018 has significant breakthrough capabilities with regards to resolving adjacent impedance discontinuities within high-speed interconnects, such as cables, backplanes, PCBs and connectors. Many signal integrity laboratories around the world have benefited from the power of PLTS in the R&D prototype test phase. PLTS 2018 now supports the new N5291A PNA MM-wave system that provides a single continuous sweep of 900 Hz to 120 GHz in a single box (see Figure 1 below). This new hardware support enables not only excellent low frequency performance for power integrity applications, but also achieves the best-in-class highest stop frequency of 120 GHz which directly translates to a 6-picosecond equivalent system risetime. This 6-picosecond risetime allows adjacent impedance discontinuities of less than 400 microns to be resolved in high-performance BGA (ball grid array) ceramic IC packages. High-speed SERDES chipsets designed for 400G network and data centers can now be fully characterized and optimized for high performance. Python interface Another significant enhancement to PLTS 2018 is the addition of a Python programming interface. Python is a widely used high-level programming language that features a dynamic system that supports multiple programming paradigms, including object-oriented, imperative, functional programming, and procedural styles. While the previous version of PLTS 2017 used the MATLAB programming interface, Python allows for custom processing of data out of and back into PLTS. This new language interface furthers the remote and factory automation applications for high-volume production of backplanes, PCBs, connectors, cables and IC packages. See the PLTS 2018 built-in Help for additional details and programming examples. 64-port S-parameter analysis The last major enhancement to PLTS 2018 is 64-port S-parameter capability. Many sophisticated backplane applications have multiple channels that need extensive crosstalk characterization in order to comply to the new high-speed digital standards. The 64-port S-parameter analysis allows eight differential pairs to be fully scrutinized for near-end and far-end crosstalk in any combination. This allows over 4096 waveforms to be recalled onto a PLTS canvas quickly and easily in multiple domains. There are very few signal integrity tools on the market that have a complete cross talk characterization of hardware and software built into a single analysis system.