Generating complex waveforms has become a bit easier with the availability of the model M8199B arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) from Keysight Technologies. It operates at sampling rates beyond 256 Gbaud and can produce advanced signal modulation formats such as 64-state quadrature amplitude modulation (64QAM). The AWG delivers analog bandwidths wider than 80 GHz and as many as eight signal channels simultaneously through its multiple output ports.
The advanced four-channel AWG (see image above) can produce signals for evaluating coherent optical communications systems to beyond 1 Tb/s per carrier and operate at data-transmission rates greater than 400 Gb/s per lane in intensity-modulation/direct-detect (IM/DD) mode.
Dr. Joachim Peerlings, vice-president and general manager of Keysight’s Network and Data Center business, said, “Today’s applications and services generate vast amounts of artificial-intelligence workloads in the data center. New electrical and optical designs are required to handle these workloads within reasonable bounds of energy consumption.”
He added, “We are pleased with Keysight’s continuous efforts to deliver first-to-market solutions that support our customers to connect and sustain our planet and take the next step in the race for higher data-transmission rates.”
With its IM/DD and optical carrier capabilities, the AWG is well-suited for high-speed stressing and evaluation of electro-optical integrated circuits (ICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), and application-specific ICs (ASICs). as well as wireless communications networks with wide modulation bandwidths. It also can produce the waveforms and pulses for research in biology, chemistry, and physics studies.