Nine new models extend digitiser range

26th September 2014

Spectrum GmbH

Mick Elliott

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Datasheet

Spectrum has extended the performance of its PCIe based instruments by adding nine new models to its M4i series of digitisers. These cards can capture and analyse fast electronic signals in the DC to 1 GHz frequency range and boast real-time sampling rates up to 5 GS/s and high bandwidth making it possible for them to measure signals, edges and pulses down into the sub nanosecond realm.

Models are available with one, two or four channels, and come complete with large 4 GB on-board memories, advanced acquisition modes, and a host of software tools that allow easy integration into any system.

The new cards are perfect for replacing conventional test instruments (such as digital oscilloscopes and spectrum analysers) whenever measurement speed, flexibility, size or channel density becomes an issue. They can be used inside a PC, when the technology needs to be embedded or outside the PC (with an expansion box) if bench-top access is required.

Spectrum's M4i series is based on the popular PCIe bus and the products are designed to allow the fastest possible data transfer. For example, using the cards PCI Express x8 Gen2 interface data can be transferred directly to a host PC at speeds of up to 3.4 GB/s.

All Spectrum digitisers support transient recording and data streaming modes. Streaming allows the capture of extremely long signals that are passed directly into the PC, where they can be stored or analysed, without the loss of vital information.

The M4i series also includes on-board FPGA technology so that optional firmware packages can perform on-the-fly functions like signal averaging and peak detection. Pre-processing waveforms reduces data transfer times and greatly improves measurement speeds.

The new digitisers are equipped with fully calibrated front-end signal conditioning circuits that offer input ranges from ±200 mV up to ±2.5 V full scale. Further signal conditioning can also be provided through the use of a wide range of optional amplifiers.

Signal conditioning allows signals to be scaled correctly so that they use the full 8-bit dynamic range of the digitiser, optimising measurement accuracy and resolution.