HP / Agilent 70841B 3 Gbit/s Pattern Generator Module

The HP/Agilent 70841B is a 3 Gbit/s pattern generator module for the Agilent 70000 Series Modular Measurement System, designed to generate serial bit patterns for high-speed digital communication testing. Operating across 0.1 Gbit/s to 3 Gbit/s, the module produces PRBS sequences and user-defined patterns up to 4 Mbits in length. It integrates into the 70001A mainframe via MSIB and GPIB interfaces, providing eight I/O ports (six front panel, two rear) with Type N (F) connectors. The 70841B supports pattern types including PRBS, zero substitution/variable mark density test patterns, and word test patterns. User-defined instrument setups - up to 10 configurations - store in non-volatile memory. An external 3 GHz clock source can drive the module, and control operates through the HP 70004A color display with optional HP-HIL keyboard attachment. Floppy disk drive storage preserves custom patterns. The module occupies one 418 MMS slot and draws power and cooling from the 70001A mainframe. Typical deployment pairs the 70841B with the 70842B error detector module for bit-by-bit pattern validation.

Technical Specifications

Data Rate: 0.1 Gbit/s to 3 Gbit/s

User Pattern Length: Up to 4 Mbits

Pattern Types: PRBS, zero substitution/variable mark density test patterns, word test patterns

External Clock: Accepts 3 GHz external clock source

I/O Connectors: Eight ports (six front, two rear); Type N (F) connectors

Communication: MSIB and GPIB interfaces

Memory: Non-volatile storage for 10 user-definable setups

Module Slot: 418 MMS form factor

Key Features

Generates serial PRBS and custom bit patterns up to 4 Mbits

Floppy disk drive for pattern storage and recall

Operates with or without external controller

HP-HIL connector supports 46021A or 98203C keyboard control

Integrates with Agilent 70004A color display interface

Typical Applications

High-speed digital communication system testing

Device stimulation across 0.1–3 Gbit/s range

PRBS and pattern-based validation

Error performance analysis when paired with 70842B detector module

Compatibility & Integration The 70841B plugs into the Agilent 70001A System Mainframe and operates alongside the 70004A color display. It integrates with the Agilent 71603 Error Performance Analyzer and 71604B Pattern Generator. Pairing with the 70842B Error Detector Module enables comprehensive bit-by-bit pattern comparison testing.