Serving the Disk Drive, USB 2.0, and 1394/1394b markets.

We produce full-solution waveform generators for R&D and product testing.
Waveforms with complete control at sub nano-second resolution.
Superior testing compared to simple traffic generators.

Unlike conventional methods of distorting a ‘known good’ data stream with noise or jitter, or using a traffic generator like CATC, NARB allows each and every bit to be modified. The slope of the bit edges, the bit timings, and the amplitudes can be changed with simple inputs.

NARB-USB

Two independent output channels for D-plus and D-minus generate the three data rates (1.5Mb/s, 12Mb/s and 480Mb/s) at 5+ times over-sampling. This permits skewing D-minus relative to D-plus and allows for each line to go positive or negative and not be complementary. Additionally, the time skew between the two differential outputs can be controlled in steps as small as of 15ps and the amplitudes of each output can also be independently controlled. Bit by bit control over 1) Amplitude, 2) Slew Rate, 3) Speed error, 4) Signal Skew and more. Set bit jitter on all bits, any bits, or just one bit, in a packet. Traffic generators don’t come close to this level of control.

NARB-1394b

Generate 1394b 800Mb/sec (983M channel bit/sec) waveforms with complete control over waveform shape with edge adjustments as small as 15ps-this represents a resolution of about 2.5% of the bit cell. Control all aspects of the generated test waveform-Amplitude, Slew Rate, Timing Error, Bit Jitter.

Astec International

Universal Serial Bus (USB) Signal Generation

Our first USB signal generator was delivered in 2002 to allow testing of the USB 2.0 480Mbit/second standard. Unparalleled control over the signal shape and timing permit testing of USB parts that has never been possible before and examine low occurrence and non-repetitive failures. Currently in use by chip designers, proto-type testing, and OEM system integrators to test and develop USB based systems.

1394b (Firewire) Signal Generation

First delivered in late 2003, the 1394b flexible waveform generator is targeted for the 800Mbit/second standard.