Software packages test to HDMI 2.0 specification

14th January 2014

Keysight Technologies (formerly Agilent)

Mick Elliott

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Datasheet

The HDMI 2.0 specification is offering a significant increase in bandwidth – up to 18 Gbps – to support new features, better resolution and up to 32 audio channels for manufacturers of televisions, computers and set-top boxes. This has prompted Agilent Technologies to introduce two compliance test software packages for physical-layer testing of such devices

The transmitter compliance test software allows engineers to use Agilent Infiniium oscilloscopes to test their HDMI 2.0 transmitters. Agilent’s receiver compliance software can be used with the company’s transition-minimised differential-signaling signal generator platform and the Agilent M8190A arbitrary waveform generator to test HDMI 2.0 receivers.

The HDMI 2.0 transmitter compliance solution builds on its HDMI 1.4b transmitter compliance test software that is currently used worldwide in HDMI authorised test centres. The new software offers capabilities now required for testing HDMI 2.0 transmitters, such as embedding standard cable models, de-embedding fixtures, providing reference equalisation and allowing engineers to characterise their systems using arbitrary models.

The test software decreases the number of “clicks to test.” Productivity improvements are enabled by two new software features: the ability to store and recall previous user set-ups, and test-plan control to guide users through all necessary tests for a given device, a capability previously lacking in HDMI solutions. Further increases in productivity are realised using a microwave switch matrix that allows all high-speed signals to be tested under control of the test software.

The HDMI 2.0 receiver compliance solution is available as an upgrade for Agilent E4887A TMDS signal generators and the M8190A AWG. A new cable emulator allows existing E4887A customers to upgrade to the HDMI 2.0 receiver test solution.

The M8190A AWG solution offers an alternative to Agilent’s E4887A HDMI platform. It eliminates switching between various cable emulators because waveforms are digitally synthesised to emulate the desired distortions. This capability reduces the manual reconfiguration effort and increases reliability. The HDMI 2.0 receiver compliance solution is complemented by products from Agilent’s solutions partner BitifEye. BitifEye products include an HDMI 2.0 upgrade of the frame generator software, phase shifters and an HDMI status and control data channel controller kit, which can be used to enable the new scrambling feature.