The demand for bandwidth is pushing the limits of test and measurement to speeds and fidelity not previously possible. Complex systems, such as 5G and 6G networks, high-speed SerDes, automotive radar, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and augmented and virtual reality, require much higher frequencies for evaluation.
Even though 112 Gbps PAM4 is just now becoming fully available within the market, 224 Gbps PAM4 SerDes characterization is already knocking at the door.
In the video above, Sandeep Sankararaman, Principal RF and Signal Integrity Engineer at Samtec, reviews a live product demonstration from IMS 2023. It incorporates Samtec Bulls Eye®, a proven test and measurement cabling solution. This is the new BE90A, which is rated to 90 GHz.
A 110 GHz Rohde and Schwarz ZVA vector network analyzer measures S-parameters. One port is connected to a 1.00 mm Samtec precision RF cable assembly, then to the Bulls Eye BE90A block connector on the board.
The signal travels through 1” of microstrip transmission line, to a Samtec 1.35 mm RF jack, through a 1.00 mm plug adaptor, and back to another port of the Rohde and Schwarz ZVA, for analysis.
The DUT is the Bulls Eye system, which consists of the 1.00 mm cable assembly and the BE90A connector. The PCB trace and the 1.35 RF jack are de-embedded.
And the results are excellent. The insertion loss is smooth all the way to 90 GHz. The performance is better than -6 dB for the cable, the BE90A, and its launch. The return loss is better than 15 dB to 90 GHz, which is again, excellent performance. The TDR shows that even with an effective 4 picosecond rise time, the impedance match going through that transition is really good.
The Bulls Eye® block compression mounts to the board for placement directly adjacent to the SerDes being characterized, while the solderless design improves overall cost and is easy to use within a lab setting.
For more information about this demonstration, including questions about footprint optimization, contact the Samtec Signal Integrity Group at SIG@Samtec.com.
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