New multichannel GHz digitisers feature up to 12 channels

Spectrum Instrumentation offers new flagship digitisers with 12-bit resolution and a maximum of six channels at 10GS/s or 12 channels at 5GS/s acquisition speed. The new DN6.33x digitisers belong to the company's Netbox series, an easy-to-use instrument line that needs only an Ethernet cable to be controlled from any PC, laptop, or network. A comprehensive software package and several hardware features make them excellent for automated testing applications, capturing signals on multiple, perfectly synchronised inputs. With 15 new variants, the company now offers a total of 94 different digitiser Netboxes, ranging from 5MS/s to an ultrafast 10GS/s sampling speed.

Each channel of the new digitisers features a 12-bit ADC with sampling rates of 3.2, 6.4, or 10GS/s, and related analogue bandwidths of 1, 2, or 3GHz. Models are available with 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 channels, providing users with flexibility without overspending on unnecessary performance. If only one or two channels are required, the smaller DN2.33x series is available.

Key hardware features:

• Perfect synchronous sampling across all channels
• Four independent programmable input ranges (±200mV to ±2.5V) per channel with programmable offset, on-board calibration, and precise timing alignment
• The standard memory allows 200ms capture duration at full speed, expandable to 800ms
• Front panel connectors for external clocks, triggers, and digital I/O are standard

Flexible acquisition modes, like transient, multiple, and optional block averaging, combine with advanced trigger capabilities to enable the precise capture of rare or complex events. Each trigger has its own timestamp, making it possible to time between acquisitions that may be separated by hours, or just fractions of a microsecond.

All units ship together with the powerful SBench 6 Professional software for acquisition, display, analysis and documentation. The software handles large data files with ease, offers a wide range of time and frequency display modes, and provides an intuitive way to control Netbox instruments. When embedding a unit into automated testing systems, developers can create their own programs using the free SDKs, compatible with C++, Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, and more. Optional accessories include a high-speed pulse generator with four programmable outputs and 19" rack mounting kits.

Oliver Rovini, CTO at Spectrum Instrumentation for 25 years, reports: "The DN6.33x series combines speed, resolution, and ease of integration. These digitisers are ideal for MIMO applications in communications or radar, or anywhere that time-correlated measurements are needed, such as in aerospace, scientific research, photovoltaic analysis, and semiconductors. Each unit comes with a five-year warranty, lifetime software/firmware updates, and support directly from our design engineers. For long-term test platforms, our 15 years of committed service and parts availability offer peace of mind."