N8242A Arbitrary Waveform Generator Synthetic Instrument Module

Introduction

• 10 bits of vertical resolution per channel and either 1.25 Gigasamples per second (GS/s) or 625 Megasample per second (MS/s) rate provides wideband waveforms with exceptionally low EVM
• Dual output channels drive both single-ended and balanced designs without the need for baluns or hybrids
• Extended memory and advanced sequencing engine allows for extended simulations of complex waveform propagation models
• Multiple module synchronization provides multi-emitter simulations suitable for MIMO applications
• Multiple programmatic interfaces enable easy integration into existing test environments
• Fully compliant to LXI Class A standards

Generate Wide Bandwidth AND Low EVM Signals, Simultaneously

The Keysight Technologies, Inc. N8242A is a wideband arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) capable of creating digitally modulated waveforms for wideband communica­tion systems. Each channel of the N8242A operates at either 1.25 GS/s sample rate (option 125) or 625 MS/s sample rate (option 062) and features 10 bits of vertical resolution, which is ideal for compliance testing of digital radios targeted for use with emerging communication standards such as MB-OFDM ultra wideband, 802.11n, MIMO, and proprietary wideband for­mats. This LXI synthetic instrument module offers dual differential output channels to drive both single-ended and balanced designs. The AWG also supports advanced sequencing and triggering modes to create event-based signal simulations. Multiple N8242A modules can be synchro­nized for the generation of phase-coherent, multi-emitter scenarios. Waveform development tasks are simplified using the AWG’s numerous programmatic interfaces including complete instrument control from the MATLAB command line. When the N8242A is combined with a wideband I/Q upconverter, modulation band­widths of 1 GHz can be realized at RF frequencies for signal simulations employed in functional testing of chip sets designed for modern digital communications radios.

Extended performance

The N8242A gives designers access to Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) technology capable of generating wideband digital communications signals with ultra-low EVM. Each module incorporates two high-speed DACs to create 500 MHz of signal bandwidth and ≤ –50 dBc SFDR across each channel. Users have the choice of driving their designs differentially from the DAC outputs or through multiple signal-conditioning paths. Although some AWGs require users to make a trade-off between the number of output channels and differential outputs, the N8242A provides both—allowing you to drive your designs and eliminating the need for baluns or hybrids in the test path. In addition, each channel can output waveforms as an IF or as a baseband signal for I/Q upconversion.

Create long scenario simulations

Multiply the effective size of on-board memory through the use of the N8242A’s advanced sequencing engine. Uniquely define how waveform segments are played through looping and nesting of stored waveform models. This capability gives users the ability to simulate fading and other multi-path effects for extended periods of time.

System scalability

Create phase-coherent, multi-emitter simulations using the N8242A’s preci­sion SYNC clock. A single N8242A can drive a total of eight AWG modules to synchronize their outputs on a sample-by-sample basis. Any number of modules can be synchronized with simple driver hardware. The AWG also includes multiple front-panel trigger and markers for complete system synchronization.

Ease-of-use

The N8242A’s graphical user interface guides developers through module setup and waveform file transfers. Users can quickly configure the instrument’s signal conditioning paths, marker and trigger lines, sample and reference clock sources and simple sequencing functions. More sophisticated sequencing functions are available through the instrument’s numerous programmatic interfaces. The N8242A supports interfaces for MATLAB, LabView, IVI-C, and VEE framework.

New! Enhanced Capabilities for the N8242

Dynamic Sequencing (option 300)

The dynamic sequencing software enables radar and military commu­nications engineers to build custom signal scenarios on the fly. Engineers can dynamically access up to 16 k of previously stored sequences through a 16-bit interface and replay these complex waveforms to respond to changing threat environments, or to create signals where the next waveform to be played is not known in advance.

Direct Digital Synthesis (option 330)

The direct digital synthesis (DDS) enables radar and emerging-commu­nications engineers to create basic waveforms in the AWG’s memory and then modify their behavior with profiles for amplitude modulation, phase modulation and frequency modulation. This enables engineers to simulate testing without the time and expense of field trials, such as in-flight and in-orbit testing.

This option can also be used to simulate fading profiles in receiver testing for satellite and 4G signals, such as multiple input, multiple output formats (MIMO).