High-speed digital circuit designs, operating at gigahertz speeds, demand precise power supply decoupling and impedance control to ensure error-free data transport. Copper Mountain Technologies, in collaboration with Picotest, has developed advanced measurement solutions and software to address these critical requirements.
In the ever-evolving landscape of high-speed digital circuit design, ensuring signal integrity and minimizing power supply noise are paramount. Enter Copper Mountain Technologies, renowned for their Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), and Picotest, a leader in high-resolution test and measurement equipment. Together, they provide cutting-edge solutions that empower engineers to achieve optimal power plane integrity, enabling the highest data rates possible.
Decoupling for Signal Integrity
High-speed serial data lines, particularly in Serializer/Deserializer (SERDES) implementations, can reach gigahertz speeds. These circuits must remain impervious to power supply noise to guarantee error-free data transmission. One critical aspect is controlling the impedances of the power planes on a circuit board. Striking the right balance is essential, as excessive capacitive decoupling can be as detrimental as insufficient decoupling.
Precise Impedance Measurement
To ascertain and optimize impedance over a wide frequency range, engineers need a tool that offers precision and flexibility. The Copper Mountain Technologies Vector Network Analyzers, particularly the Compact S5065 and S5085 models capable of measuring from 9 kHz to 6.5 GHz and 8.5 GHz, respectively, provide a solution. These VNAs, combined with the Picotest J2102B common mode transformer, enable engineers to measure power plane impedances in the milli-ohm range and verify impedance flatness. This allows for quick bench adjustments and immediate verification of decoupling network performance, exposing any imperfections in decoupling capacitors.
Introducing Non-Invasive Stability Testing
Picotest, known for its innovation in test and measurement equipment, announces a groundbreaking software add-on. This software equips Copper Mountain Technologies Compact series VNAs with non-invasive stability margin (NISM) measurement capabilities. NISM offers a simplified alternative to traditional Bode plot measurements, making it possible to assess circuit or filter stability even when the control loop is inaccessible. It determines phase margin from an output impedance measurement via group delay, enabling users to evaluate the stability of various components, including opamps, voltage regulators, and power converters.
Enhancing High-Bandwidth Control Loop Assessment
Steven Sandler, CEO of Picotest, emphasizes the broad applicability of NISM, stating, "Even very high bandwidth control loops that are challenging, if not impossible, to measure via Bode plots can be assessed."
The collaboration between Copper Mountain Technologies and Picotest signifies a significant step forward in the world of high-speed digital circuit design. These advanced tools and software solutions provide engineers with the means to ensure signal integrity, minimize power supply noise, and maximize data rates in an increasingly demanding technological landscape.
