Agilent/Keysight N2101B

The Keysight N2101B is a 3-slot wide PXI module that integrates a high-accuracy clock source, data pattern generator, and error detector to function as a 10.3125 Gb/s Bit Error Ratio Tester (BERT). It performs automated bit error ratio analysis for device characterization and quality assessment, delivering BERT functionality in a form factor significantly smaller than conventional benchtop instruments.

Technical Specifications

• 10 standard internal rates: 155 Mb/s to 8.5 Gb/s


• Supports any rate up to 10.3125 Gb/s when used with external synthesizer (e.g., Keysight N2099A) Data Patterns


• PRBS patterns: 2ⁿ − 1 where n = 7, 9, 11, 15, 23, 31


• K28.5, K28.7, and CR patterns


• User-defined patterns: up to 2048 bits maximum, or 16 Kbytes if pattern length is integer multiple of 64 bits Signal Interface


• Differential data generation and analysis


• AC coupled signals with 50-ohm termination (unless otherwise specified) Measurement Capabilities


• Bit error ratio analysis and bit error display over time


• Automatic clock and data alignment


• Jitter Bathtub display and analysis


• Eye opening measurement and extrapolation to defined error rates


• Error injection: single error or error rate injection modes

Key Features

• Integrated pattern generation, clock synthesis, and error detection reduce component count and system complexity


• PXI form factor enables integration into modular test platforms


• Supports multiple BERT modules within single PXI chassis for parallel or multi-channel testing

Typical Applications

• High-speed serial link characterization and validation


• Device quality assessment across telecommunications and datacom standards


• Jitter analysis and eye diagram measurements

Compatibility & Integration Platform Support

• PXI-1, PXI-H, and PCI chassis compatible System Integration


• Works with Keysight N2100B Digital Communication Analyzer, N2102B Pattern Generator, N2099A synthesizer, or multiple N2101B modules in single chassis Control & Development


• Windows application control panel included


• DLL with ActiveX Control wrapper for custom application development


• Driver support: MATLAB, LabVIEW, IVI-COM, IVI-C


• Compatible with Microsoft Windows XP (32-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)


• Latest software version: A.04.00 Status: Obsolete product