Advantest D3186 Pulse Pattern Generator, 150 Mbps to 12 Gbps
Product Overview
The Advantest D3186 provides high-precision clock signals and customizable data patterns required for Bit Error Rate Testing (BERT). It generates clean, low-jitter NRZ waveforms with fully programmable output levels, making it ideal for evaluating next-generation SONET/SDH, Ethernet, and fiber-optic communication devices.
Technical Parameter List
| Parameter | Specification |
| Manufacturer | Advantest Corporation |
| Model | D3186 |
| Operating Frequency Range | 150 MHz to 12.0 GHz (100 kHz steps) |
| Output Waveform Formats | NRZ (Non-Return-to-Zero) |
| PRBS Patterns | $2^7-1, 2^9-1, 2^{15}-1, 2^{23}-1, 2^{31}-1$ |
| Programmable Word Length | 8 bits to 128 Kbits |
| Output Amplitude | 0.5 $V_{p-p}$ to 2.0 $V_{p-p}$ into 50 $\Omega$ |
| Offset Range | -2.0 V to +3.0 V |
| Transition Time (Rise/Fall) | $< 25 \text{ ps}$ (20% to 80%) |
| Clock Jitter | $< 1.5 \text{ ps RMS}$ |
| Control Interfaces | GPIB (IEEE-488.2), RS-232 |
Core Advantages
Ultra-Low Jitter Performance: High signal integrity with under 25 ps rise/fall times for clean eye diagrams.
Flexible Pattern Generation: Supports standard PRBS test sequences alongside user-defined long memory patterns up to 128 Kbits.
Dual-Channel Outputs: Offers complementary DATA and CLOCK differential outputs for differential receiver testing.
Precision Voltage Control: Independent programmatic adjustment of signal high/low levels and offset parameters.
Model Classification & Variants
Advantest D3186 (Standard): 12 GHz standard pulse pattern generator main unit.
Option 01 / High-Stability Reference: Internal OCXO expansion for tight clock synthesis accuracy.
System Bundles: Often paired with the Advantest D3286 Error Detector (ED) to form a complete 12 Gbps BERT setup.
Environmental Tolerance Conditions
Operating Temperature: +10 °C to +40 °C
Storage Temperature: -20 °C to +60 °C
Operating Humidity: 20% to 80% RH (non-condensing)
Warm-up Time: Minimum 30 minutes to guarantee published phase noise and stability specs
Installation Method
Benchtop Setup: Position on a flat surface with at least 10 cm rear clearance for unrestricted fan airflow.
Rack Mounting: Compatible with standard 19-inch equipment racks using optional heavy-duty slide rail kits.
Power Connection: Verify rear panel line voltage selector (100–120 VAC or 220–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz) before plugging in the AC cable.
Operating Instructions
Power-Up: Connect power, turn on the unit, and wait 30 minutes for thermal stabilization.
Clock Source Selection: Choose between INTERNAL clock synthesis or supply an EXTERNAL reference via the rear SMA clock input.
Pattern Output Configuration: Press [PATTERN] to select desired PRBS length ($2^{23}-1$ or $2^{31}-1$) or load a custom word sequence.
Amplitude Adjustment: Select [OUTPUT], enter the target peak-to-peak amplitude (e.g., $1.0\text{ V}$) and set output offset.
Enable Output: Connect high-frequency SMA cables (rated $\ge 18\text{ GHz}$) to the EUT (Equipment Under Test) and press the [OUTPUT ON] button.