M8192A Multi-Channel Synchronization Module

Features and benefits

• Synchronization of up to six M8190A or M8121A modules (= 12 channels)1
• One trigger input can trigger up to six M8190A or M8121A modules with deterministic latency
• Skew calibration with 50 fs delay resolution between any two channels
• 1U AXIe module for high port density

 Description

The Keysight Technologies, Inc. M8192A synchronization module is used in conjunction with two to six M8190A or M8121A Arbitrary Waveform Generator modules to build a fully synchronous, phase coherent multi-channel generator system with up to 12 analog channels and 24 marker outputs.

When running in synchronous mode, all of the M8190A or M8121A modules work with the same sample clock and start at the same time. One of the AWGmodules is designated as the “master” module. The common sample clock is derived either from the master module’s internal clock synthesizer or from an external sample clock that is connected to the master module’s sample clock input.

Using the fine delay adjust capability of the M8190A or M8121A with 50 fs resolution, the skew can be adjusted to less than 1 ps between any two channels. Once adjusted, the skew is maintained across loading new waveforms, changing sample rate and power cycles.

A common trigger input is available on the synchronization module to trigger all the connected AWG modules simultaneously with deterministic latency. Triggered waveforms have the same inter-channel skew as continuous wave- forms. To achieve the lowest possible trigger delay uncertainty, the trigger input can be synchronized externally to the SYNC CLK output.

Applications

Typical applications include:

• Phase coherent multi-channel I/Q signal generation with up to six I/Q pairs
• Phase coherent multi-channel IF/RF generation with up to 12 IF/RF signals
• Multi-lane serial applications
• Physics research

Configurations

The M8192A can be used to synchronize M8190A or M8121A modules that are located within the same or different AXIe chassis. This allows very flexible configurations to address a variety of application requirements.

Trigger and clock connections are routed through special cables that are connected on the front panel between the M8192A module and the M8190A or M8121A modules.

For all system configurations except the 13-slot chassis setup, an external PC or laptop with PCIe cable connection is required to control the setup. In case of multiple AXIe chassis configurations, a desktop PC with two or three PCIe adapters is required. With a 13-slot AXIe chassis, an embedded controller can be used with up to five M8190A or M8121A modules.

The following configurations are possible:

• Up to 4 analog channels: One M9505A 5-slot AXIe chassis, one M8192A and two M8190A or M8121A modules.
• This configuration can also be ordered as a pre-configured M8190S Multichannel Arbitrary Waveform Generator System (applies to M8190A modules only)
• Up to 8 analog channels: Two M9505A 5-slot AXIe chassis, one M8192A and three or four M8190A or M8121A modules.
• This configuration can also be ordered as a pre-configured M8190S Multichannel Arbitrary Waveform Generator System (applies to M8190A modules only).

Software

The M8192A module has its own firmware and SFP (Soft Front Panel) - similar to the AWG modules - that allows you to control the trigger mode, trigger level and common start/stop of the multi-module setup. The SFP can be used to configure the entire synchronous system.

The firmware also offers a remote programming interface based on an IVI driver or SCPI commands.