As the demand for faster data transfer rates continues to grow, the latest generation of PCIe 5.0 and 6.0 cables and connectors are becoming crucial components in high-speed data storage and connectivity solutions. To ensure compliance with PCI-SIG specifications and save valuable time, Rohde & Schwarz has developed the R&S ZNrun-K440, an automation suite option for vector network analyzer (VNA) testing. This article explores how this automated solution revolutionizes compliance testing, reduces testing times, and mitigates the risk of errors.
The R&S ZNrun-K440 enables precise and time-saving compliance testing by automating the verification process. It utilizes the R&S ZNB26 or R&S ZNB43 vector network analyzer with four test ports and multiple R&S OSP320 open switch and control platforms. The setup can create a multiport VNA solution with up to 64 test ports, ensuring comprehensive testing for PCIe x8 cables in just a few minutes, compared to several hours of manual testing.
The R&S ZNrun-K440 streamlines the testing of PCIe 5.0 and 6.0 cables and connectors by minimizing the need for manual reconnections. For example, a PCIe x8 cable with 16 lanes requires 64 test ports, which can be achieved using three R&S OSP320 platforms. In contrast, a PCIe x4 cable only needs 32 test ports from two R&S OSP320 platforms. By eliminating manual reconnections and repetitive terminations, the automation suite significantly reduces the risk of connection errors and accelerates the testing process.
The R&S ZNrun-K440 provides a powerful test configurator that allows users to select and deselect test items by lane, offering greater flexibility in meeting specific testing requirements. The automation suite covers all measurements in line with the PCIe specification and performs postprocessing of defined PCIe metrics, such as integrated return loss (iRL) and component contribution to integrated crosstalk noise (ccICN). This comprehensive testing ensures compliance with the PCI-SIG specification.
The automated solution incorporates a new calibration procedure that reduces the number of calibration steps and connections required. It also includes a method for de-embedding the test fixture, as required by the PCIe test specifications. These features simplify the calibration process and contribute to accurate and reliable compliance testing results.
With each iteration of the PCIe evolution, the demand for speed has doubled, leading to increasingly complex compliance verification challenges. The R&S ZNrun-K440 is designed to address these challenges and is adaptable to future PCIe requirements. As PCI-SIG defines standardized cables for internal and external applications, the solution will continue to support these tests once they are standardized.
The development of the R&S ZNrun-K440 automation suite option by Rohde & Schwarz represents a significant advancement in the compliance testing of PCIe 5.0 and 6.0 cables and connectors. By automating the testing process, reducing testing times, and ensuring accurate compliance measurements, this solution enables manufacturers and testing engineers to meet the demands of high-speed data connectivity efficiently and reliably. With its powerful features and future-proof design, the R&S ZNrun-K440 is set to play a vital role in the development and verification of next-generation PCIe systems.
