Keysight (Agilent) 81141A Pulse Data Generator, 7 GHz

The Keysight (Agilent) 81141A is a pulse data generator designed for testing high-speed digital systems and components up to 7 GHz. It delivers precise control over pulse and data stream parameters with low-jitter signals essential for physical layer measurements, jitter tolerance analysis, and stress testing applications across R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance environments.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 150 MHz to 7 GHz


• Output formats: Pulse, Data Pattern, and PRBS (Pseudo-Random Binary Sequence)


• Data formats: RZ, R1, and NRZ


• PRBS capability: 2^5-1 to 2^31-1


• Pattern memory: 32 Mbit for complex, real-world data simulation


• Sequencing: One level with up to 4 blocks for protocol-like generation


• Transition time: <20 ps (10%/90%) Jitter Characteristics


• Clock mode jitter: <1 ps RMS


• Data mode jitter: 9 ps peak-to-peak


• Jitter modulation bandwidth: Up to 1 GHz


• Delay modulation range: -100 ps to +100 ps Output Specifications


• Single channel: Data and clock, differential or single-ended


• Amplitude range: 0.1 Vpp to 1.8 Vpp (5 mV resolution)


• Output voltage window: -2 V to +3 V


• Output impedance: 50 Ω nominal


• Connector: 2.4 mm female Timing Control


• Clock/Data delay range: ±0.75 ns (100 fs resolution)


• External delay control: Modulates jitter via external signal (400 ps/V sensitivity, ±5% linearity)


• Delay control input: DC coupled, 50 Ω, SMA female

Key Features

• Flexible sequencing with pattern trigger mode synchronized to user-specified PRBS patterns


• Divided clock triggering at factors of 2, 4, 8, 10, 16, 20, 32, 64, and 128


• External clock input and trigger I/O (Aux In, Trigger Out)


• External termination voltage adjustment: -2.0 V to +3.0 V

Typical Applications

• High-speed digital component characterization and stress testing


• Jitter tolerance and jitter transfer measurements


• Protocol-based data stream generation for device validation


• Physical layer testing up to 7 GHz

Compatibility & Integration Accepts external clock signals and integrates trigger inputs for synchronized operation with automated test systems and measurement instruments.