EXFO pB100A4 Pattern Generator

The EXFO pB100A4 Pattern Generator is a instrument for generating precise, customizable digital patterns essential to testing and validating high-speed digital communication systems. This pattern generator characterizes signal quality, jitter, and timing in modern network infrastructures across laboratory and manufacturing environments.

Technical Specifications

• Data rate support: up to 12.5 Gbps


• Bit-error-rate capability: up to 10⁻²


• Clock and data recovery: four independent CDR channels


• Electrical interface: 4x10G


• Monitoring: Rx eye diagram capability

Key Features Pattern generation includes PRBS sequences (2³¹-1, 2²³-1, 2¹⁵-1, 2⁹-1, 2⁷-1), square waves, and SSPR patterns conforming to OIF-CEI-03.0. Four independent CDR channels enable flexible signal recovery across multiple test channels. Rx eye diagram monitoring provides real-time signal quality assessment. The instrument operates in paired configurations for end-to-end link testing or singularly with remote loopback capability. All units ship with NIST traceable calibration.

Typical Applications

• Optical transceiver validation (CFP2, CFP4, QSFP28)


• Active cable testing


• Network equipment characterization


• High-speed data link validation


• Signal integrity and jitter analysis


• Timing performance assessment

Compatibility & Integration The pB100A4 supports testing of CFP2, CFP4, QSFP28 transceivers and active cables. The 4x10G electrical interface accommodates standard high-speed transceiver form factors. Two units paired together enable bidirectional link testing; single-unit operation with external loopback provides alternative test configurations. Product Status: Discontinued December 31, 2017. End-of-service and support: December 31, 2020.