Anritsu has released the MU196040B PAM4 error detector (ED) module for its Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A series, which enables 116-Gbps bit error rate (BER) tests.

The module, employed in combination with the company's MP1900A series PAM4 pattern generator, enables engineers to accurately measure bit error rates of 400 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) and 800GbE communications equipment and devices.

As noted by Lightwave's Stephen Hardy, "PAM4 has become the consensus approach to supporting 100GbE transmission, particularly as a building block toward 400GbE and eventual 800GbE designs."

Anritsu notes that the use of PAM4 modulation creates a requirement for higher input sensitivity than when using NRZ, as well as the integration of such functions as clock recovery and equalization to correct loss effects. The new ED module features built-in clock recovery and an equalizer to enable a PAM4 BER measuring instrument with what the company asserts is market-leading performance.

With a built-in high-bandwidth and high-input-sensitivity Rx circuit, the ED MU196040B module supports error-free measurement of 100-Gbps PAM4 input signals even at an input amplitude of 36 mV typical, Anritsu states.

The built-in clock-recovery and equalizer functions support highly reproducible jitter stress and ISI stress tests of transceiver input circuits using an easily configured equipment setup, the company adds.