Testing the transmission quality of high-speed link cables

The GCaT Gigabit Cable Tester from GOEPEL electronic is a new tool for evaluation of the transmission quality of serial high-speed cables. Thereby production losses can be reduced. Previously available cable testers often only execute a simple connection test (Go / NoGo Test).

Thanks to the modular adapter principle, any cable type can be tested. The integrated FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and its test mechanisms are specifically designed for a BERT (Bit Error Rate Test). The suppled tester software can create tests automatically and then execute them. The results of the BERT can be represented as either a statistical eye diagram or a simple BERT with a given test field. Overall, the test of up to 8 serial Gigabit signals is possible. In addition, a conventional connection test for standard I/O signals can be performed to verify correct wiring of the cable.

Conventional cable testers often only enable a simple connection test (Go / NoGo test). Thus, no qualitative statements can be made about the attenuation or signal distortion of signals in the Gigabit range. This additional test tool can provide sustainable transmission reliability during design process or selection of cables. When using the GCaT Gigabit Cable Tester in production, errors can be detected at an early stage, minimizing production loss rates. The integrated USB controller alleviates the need for additional hardware components. The cable-specific test adapter has only minimal requirements, so the costs can also be kept low. Modularity makes it possible to change the cable type very quickly, which ensures a short setup time in production.