Agilent introduces PLTS Version 4.0

Agilent Technologies Inc. has introduced the latest version of its premier signal integrity test solution: the Physical Layer Test System (PLTS) version 4.0.

Featuring new multiport enhancements, this robust calibration, measurement and analysis platform is described as ideal for signal integrity engineers doing high-speed digital design and encountering microwave transmission line effects in their printed circuit boards, cables, IC packages and backplanes.

Agilent also introduced PLTS Studio, an analysis-only version of the PLTS platform that provides a low-cost-to-entry for engineers performing post-measurement data analysis of Touchstone files.

The new PLTS version 4.0 features a number of significant enhancements that provide engineers with complete design confidence - a key benefit considering today's ever-changing digital validation requirements. Simplifying multiple aggressor differential crosstalk measurements in high-speed backplanes, it easily imports 12-port S-parameter data and rapidly pinpoints the physical location of crosstalk problems. A customizable device configuration map manages the large S-parameter files from the n-port data set, organizing them according to port name. When only 4-port data is available, the tool's advanced file import functionality automatically builds larger Touchstone models, thereby eliminating the time-consuming task of writing custom import software or performing a manual cut-and-paste of Touchstone data.

Additionally, fast and easy electronic calibration modules allow for quick Short-Open-Load-Thru calibration of a 12-port VNA in about eight minutes.