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New hybridNETBOX models generate and acquire faster signals
Example: The hybridNETBOX model DN2.825-04 provides four
AWG channels that can output waveforms at rates up to 625 MS/s with 16-bit
resolution, along with four digitizer channels that can each sample signals
at 500 MS/s with 14-bit resolution.
Six slower hybridNETBOX models
(up to 125 MS/s speed with BNC-jacks) were launched in September 2020. All
14 variants share the same type of portable housing.
Grosshansdorf, Germany - January 27th, 2021 - Spectrum Instrumentation extends
its range of hybridNETBOX products with the addition of eight high-performance
models. The hybridNETBOX is an innovative instrumentation platform that combines
a multi-channel arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) and a digitizer in a single
portable unit. With their unique capability for simultaneous signal generation
and acquisition, these powerful tools are perfect for applications involving
stimulus-response or closed-loop type testing. In total,
14 different hybridNETBOX
models are available now, with 2+2, 4+4 or 8+8 matched channels and possible
speeds from 40 MS/s to 1.25 GS/s.
The new models offer a choice of two or four AWG channels combined with the
same number of digitizer channels. The AWG channels can generate almost any
waveshape thanks to their use of the latest, high resolution, 16-bit digital
to analog converters (DAC). Models are available with output rates of either
625 MS/s or 1.25 GS/s and signal bandwidths up to 400 MHz (600 MHz as an option).
At 625 MS/s, the channels can be programmed to output signals with amplitudes
up to ±3 V into a 50 Ohm load or ± 6V into high impedance (1 MOhm). The models
running at 1.25 GS/s can output signals with an impressive ± 2.5 V into 50 Ohm
and ±5 V for 1 MOhm.
For signal acquisition, the digitizer channels feature similarly outstanding
performances. Users can select from models that provide 16-bit resolution and
sampling rates of 180 or 250 MS/s or 14-bit resolution and sampling rates of
400 or 500 MS/s. Each channel is fully programmable with six adjustable input
ranges, from ±200 mV to ±10 V full scale, signal offset and selectable input
impedance of 50 Ohm or 1 MOhm. Both the AWG and the digitizer showcase a flexible
clocking system that allows the selection of almost any output or sampling rate
setting, enabling users to generate or acquire signals at exactly the speed
they require.
With their ability to create and acquire electronic signals at the same time,
hybridNETBOX units are ideal for a wide variety of automated testing applications.
For example, they can reproduce and capture “echo” signals such as those found
in Radar, Sonar, Lidar or Ultrasound. The hybridNETBOX is also suited to ATE
applications where components and subassemblies need to be tested in a fast
and automated way. They can quickly ascertain the functionality and tolerance
of DUTs and UUTs (devices or units under test) by exercising them with numerous,
easily adjusted, complex signals. This powerful testing process can be deployed
in a host of applications like bus testing, MIMO communications, circuit verification,
robotics, automotive and scientific experiments.
Oliver Rovini, Technical Director at Spectrum Instrumentation, says: “Since
we launched the first hybridNETBOX models in 2020, we've received positive feedback
from engineers and scientists that require both waveform generation and signal
acquisition in manual, automated or remotely controlled applications. So, it's
exciting that these new models will extend the frequency range and allow us
to address even more applications. Being portable LXI instruments, they're easy
to integrate into almost any system. Just connect them to a PC or network, via
the Gbit Ethernet port, and start generating, acquiring and analysing signals.”
Each hybridNETBOX includes Spectrum's own control software -- SBench 6 --
for signal generation, acquisition, display, signal processing, storage and
reporting SBench 6 allows waveforms to be created using standard functions and
mathematical equations. Data can be acquired with the digitizer part and then
be transferred to the AWG for replay. Data sharing with other programs or devices,
such as oscilloscopes, is possible using built-in, import/export functions for
transferring data in Binary, ASCII or Wave formats. Fully programmable, the
hybridNETBOX comes with drivers for Windows and Linux operating systems, as
well as programming examples for C++, LabVIEW, MATLAB, Visual Basic .NET, JAVA,
Python and other popular languages.
To help with waveform generation and acquisition, the hybridNETBOX has a
large amount of on-board memory (2 x 2 GSamples) and includes a number of operating
modes. For instance, it is possible to output signals using Single-Shot, Loop,
FIFO Streaming, Gated Replay and Sequence Replay modes. This flexibility permits
the user to generate almost any signal, or combination of signals, and develop
test routines that can go from simple to complex. Similarly, signals can be
acquired using Single-Shot, FIFO Streaming, Multiple Recording, Gated Sampling,
and ABA (sample rate switching) modes. These can be combined with a variety
of flexible trigger modes (Channel, External, Software, Window, Re-Arm, Logic
or Delay) to make sure that important events are never missed.
In addition to the digitizer and AWG channels, the front-panel of each hybridNETBOX
includes multiple digital I/O connectors. These make it easy to integrate units
into a test system. For example, synchronous marker outputs are available that
can be used on the AWG channels to allow precise control of other devices or
instruments. Similarly, it is possible to synchronize the unit with other equipment,
by applying an external clock and triggers.
With over 30 years of knowledge in designing and building fast AWGs and digitizers,
Spectrum offers an industry-leading, 5-year warranty for customer's peace of
mind. This includes free software and firmware updates for each unit's lifetime.
Additionally, customers get support directly from Spectrum's hardware and software
engineers. All 14 hybridNETBOX models are available now, with a typical delivery
time of 2-3 weeks. Further information can be found on the Spectrum Instrumentation
website at www.spectrum-instrumentation.com
About Spectrum Instrumentation
Spectrum Instrumentation, founded in 1989, uses modular design to create
a wide range of digitizers and generator products as PC-cards (PCIe and PXIe)
and stand-alone Ethernet units (LXI). In 30 years, Spectrum has gained customers
all around the world, including many A-brand industry-leaders and practically
all prestigious universities. The company is headquartered near Hamburg, Germany,
and known for its outstanding support that comes directly from the design engineers.
More information about Spectrum can be found at www.spectrum-instrumentation.com
Contact Info:
Headquarters Spectrum Instrumentation GmbH Germany Phone: +49 4102-6956-0
Email:
info@spec.de
U.S. Office Spectrum Instrumentation Corp. USA Phone: (201) 562-1999 Email:
Sales@spectrum-instrumentation.com
Posted January 28, 2021
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