HP / Agilent 81130A Pulse Data Generator, 400/660 MHz and 1.32 Gb/s

The HP/Agilent 81130A Pulse Data Generator is a dual-channel instrument for characterizing high-speed digital circuits and communication systems. It generates complex pulse sequences, burst patterns, and PRBS signals up to 1.32 Gb/s with selectable TTL or ECL logic levels. The instrument operates from 1 kHz to 400 MHz (81131A module) or 660 MHz (81132A module), delivering precise control over pulse width, delay, amplitude, and timing relationships with 5 ps resolution. Two output module options provide different frequency and amplitude capabilities: the 81131A reaches 400 MHz at 3.8 Vpp, while the 81132A extends to 660 MHz at 2.5 Vpp. Both modules present 50 Ω source impedance. The generator supports RZ, NRZ, and R1 signal formats, with dual-channel EXOR capability for advanced pattern synthesis. A 64 kbit segmentable memory enables complex sequence storage and playback.

Technical Specifications

Frequency Range: 1 kHz to 400 MHz (81131A) or 1 kHz to 660 MHz (81132A)

Data Rate: Up to 1.32 Gb/s

Output Amplitude: 100 mV to 3.8 Vpp (81131A) or 100 mV to 2.5 Vpp (81132A)

Output Impedance: 50 Ω

Pulse Width Range: 1.25 ns to (period − 1.25 ns) for 81131A; 750 ps to (period − 750 ps) for 81132A

Variable Delay Range: 2.5 ns to 1 ms (81131A) or 1.5 ns to 1 ms (81132A)

Transition Time: 800 ps or 1.6 ns selectable (81131A); 500 ps typical (81132A)

Timing Resolution: 5 ps

Pulse Width Accuracy: ±0.5% ± 150 ps

Delay Accuracy: ±0.5% ± 150 ps

Memory: 64 kbit, segmentable

Logic Levels: Selectable TTL or ECL

Key Features

Single- or dual-channel operation with internal EXOR for pattern combination

Pulse, burst, and sequenced PRBS pattern generation modes

Period RMS jitter: 0.00 ns to 3.00 μs

Multiple trigger modes: continuous, external triggered, external gain, external width, manual

Signal format options: RZ, NRZ, R1

Typical Applications

High-speed digital circuit characterization and protocol validation

Communication system testing and timing validation

Complex pulse sequence generation for device qualification

Compatibility & Integration The 81131A and 81132A output modules are not compatible within a single 81130A mainframe; select one module type per instrument configuration.