Agilent/Keysight N4965A

The Keysight N4965A is a modular multi-channel Bit Error Rate Tester (BERT) for characterization of high-speed serial data channels up to 12.5 Gb/s per channel. The instrument's modular architecture supports one to five remotely mountable heads, each configured as either a pattern generator or error detector. Remote head placement minimizes signal degradation from long cable runs - a critical advantage in high-speed serial testing.

Technical Specifications

• Maximum data rate: 12.5 Gb/s per channel


• Modular head configuration: one to five remote heads


• Signal connectivity: differential or single-ended


• Pattern generation: Pseudo-Random Binary Sequences (PRBS) of various lengths, clock patterns, DC logic 0 and logic 1


• Signal conditioning: integrated four-tap de-emphasis


• Jitter handling: transparent pass-through without significant alteration

Key Features

• Independent or ganged programming of generator output and detector input parameters


• Swept aggressor channel delay for crosstalk characterization


• Presets for common logic families


• BER bathtub and jitter tolerance testing (in conjunction with N4980A)


• Remote control via USB or GPIB


• Compact form factor

Typical Applications

• Serial data receiver characterization up to 12.5 Gb/s


• Multi-lane device characterization


• Crosstalk characterization

Compatibility & Integration The N4965A operates with the following remote heads:

N4955A 12.5 Gb/s Pattern Generator Remote Head

N4956A 12.5 Gb/s Error Detector Remote Head