Quantifi Photonics BERT 1005 Series User manual

Bit Error Rate Tester | BERT 1005
Quantifi Photonics Ltd. Version 2.04 2
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without the prior written permission of Quantifi Photonics Ltd. (Quantifi Photonics).
Information provided by Quantifi Photonics is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed by Quantifi Photonics for its use nor for any infringements of
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The information contained in this publication is subject to change without notice.
Trademarks
Quantifi Photonics’ trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence or absence of such
identification does not affect the legal status of any trademark.
LabVIEW™, MATLAB® and Python® are trademarks of National Instruments, The MathWorks Inc., and the
Python Software Foundation, respectively. Neither Quantifi Photonics nor any software programs or
other goods or services offered by Quantifi Photonics are affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by
National Instruments, The MathWorks Inc., and the Python Software Foundation.
Units of Measurement
Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and practices.
EU Authorized Representative
Certification Company
Veluwezoom 42
1327 AH ALMERE
The Netherlands
[phone]
[email protected]
Version: 2.04

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Contents
1Conventions............................................................................................................................7
2Safety information.............................................................................................................. 8
Optical laser radiation precautions..........................................................................................................................8
Electrostatic discharge precautions........................................................................................................................8
Electromagnetic compatibility....................................................................................................................................8
3Introducing the BERT 1005 –Bit error rate tester................................................... 9
BERT 1005 PXIe module overview & features......................................................................................................9
BERT 1005 MATRIQ instrument overview & features......................................................................................9
BERT 1005 error detector RF input and the pattern generator RF output .......................................... 10
Status LEDs..........................................................................................................................................................................11
4Connecting optical fibers................................................................................................12
Cleaning and connecting optical fibers.................................................................................................................12
Connector care .................................................................................................................................................................13
Cable selection..................................................................................................................................................................13
4.3.1 Use a torque wrench......................................................................................................................................13
4.3.2 Make a connection .........................................................................................................................................14
4.3.3 Separate a connection..................................................................................................................................14
5Handling the BERT 1005 ..................................................................................................15
BERT 1005 PXIe module installation........................................................................................................................15
BERT 1005 PXIe module uninstallation.................................................................................................................. 16
BERT 1005 MATRIQ instrument installation ........................................................................................................17
6Software installation for the BERT 1005....................................................................18
Cohesion Installer information for PXIe modules..............................................................................................18
6.1.1 Installation overview ......................................................................................................................................18
6.1.2 Installation process.........................................................................................................................................18
Quantifi Photonics PXIe system utility applications.........................................................................................21
6.2.1 Cohesion Manager utility.............................................................................................................................21
6.2.2 Cohesion Firmware Updater utility ....................................................................................................... 22
Installing software for MATRIQ instruments..................................................................................................... 23

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6.3.1 Installing Cohesion Operator on client computer(s) ..................................................................... 23
6.3.2 Checking MATRIQ firmware versions and other product information ................................ 25
6.3.3 Upgrading a MATRIQ instrument with the latest firmware....................................................... 26
6.3.4 Restoring factory settings on a MATRIQ instrument...........................................................................27
7CohesionUI...........................................................................................................................28
Accessing CohesionUI for PXIe modules............................................................................................................. 28
Accessing CohesionUI for MATRIQ instruments ............................................................................................. 28
Home page........................................................................................................................................................................ 29
Modules list ....................................................................................................................................................................... 30
7.4.1 Set and Actual values....................................................................................................................................31
Settings page.....................................................................................................................................................................31
7.5.1 System controls for PXIe modules......................................................................................................... 32
7.5.2 Network and Update settings controls for MATRIQ instruments........................................... 34
7.5.3 Configuring the Network Interface settings for MATRIQ instruments................................. 34
7.5.4 Setting the USB IP address for MATRIQ instruments.................................................................. 35
7.5.5 Setting the Ethernet IP address for MATRIQ instruments......................................................... 35
SCPI Command Console (available on PXIe modules) ................................................................................. 36
Info panel............................................................................................................................................................................ 39
8BERT 1005 control with CohesionUI ...........................................................................40
Module configuration .....................................................................................................................................................41
8.1.1 Set up the data rate .......................................................................................................................................41
8.1.2 Configure the trigger out signal ............................................................................................................. 42
Check channels status ................................................................................................................................................ 43
Error detection..................................................................................................................................................................44
8.3.1 Error detection indicators...........................................................................................................................44
8.3.2 Start / Stop error detection...................................................................................................................... 45
8.3.3 Specify the pattern of the input signal................................................................................................ 45
8.3.4 Invert the polarity of the test pattern................................................................................................... 45
8.3.5 Configure the receiver equalization setting...................................................................................... 46
8.3.6 Inject errors ...................................................................................................................................................... 46
8.3.7 Specify the result display type .................................................................................................................47
8.3.8 ED point mode..................................................................................................................................................47
8.3.9 Eye scan............................................................................................................................................................. 48
8.3.10 Bathtub scan ................................................................................................................................................... 49
Chart operations ..............................................................................................................................................................51
Pulse pattern generation............................................................................................................................................ 52
8.5.1 Set up the transmitter de-emphasis .................................................................................................... 52
8.5.2 Set the cross-point level............................................................................................................................. 54

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8.5.3 Invert the generated pattern ................................................................................................................... 55
8.5.4 Enable / Disable pattern generation.................................................................................................... 55
9Programming guide .........................................................................................................56
Programming conventions ........................................................................................................................................ 56
9.1.1 Index addressing of modules (slot, source) and units (channel).............................................. 56
Common system command summary..................................................................................................................57
Common system command descriptions............................................................................................................57
Specific command summary.................................................................................................................................... 58
Specific command descriptions..............................................................................................................................60
9.5.1 Slot commands...............................................................................................................................................60
9.5.2 Configuration commands........................................................................................................................... 61
BERT 1005 PXIe Multi Chassis mode operation................................................................................................78
9.6.1 NI-MAX application Multi Chassis mode .............................................................................................78
9.6.2 SCPI Multi Chassis commands................................................................................................................79
SCPI Command Console (available on MATRIQ instruments)..................................................................80
10 Example: Control of the BERT 1005 with SCPI .......................................................82
NI-MAX application........................................................................................................................................................ 84
NI-VISA application........................................................................................................................................................ 85
Python® 2.7 code example..........................................................................................................................................86
MATLAB® code example ..............................................................................................................................................87
LabVIEW™ application.................................................................................................................................................. 88
10.5.1 Soft Panels........................................................................................................................................................ 88
10.5.2 LabVIEW™ Virtual Instruments (VIs) ...................................................................................................... 89
11 Maintenance.......................................................................................................................90
Annual calibration schedule...................................................................................................................................... 90
12 Technical support...............................................................................................................91
Contacting the Technical Support Group............................................................................................................ 91
Transportation.................................................................................................................................................................. 91
13 Warranty ..............................................................................................................................92
General information...................................................................................................................................................... 92
Liability ................................................................................................................................................................................ 92
Exclusions........................................................................................................................................................................... 92
Certification ...................................................................................................................................................................... 93

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Service and repairs ....................................................................................................................................................... 93

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1Conventions
Before using the product described in this manual, take note of the following conventions:
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Do not proceed unless the required conditions are met and understood.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
Do not proceed unless the required conditions are met and understood.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in component damage.
Do not proceed unless the required conditions are met and understood.
Refers to information about this product that you should not overlook.
Indicates some information that requires your attention or some extra information for the current
topic.

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2Safety information
Before using the BERT 1005 product, ensure that the following safety information has been read and
understood.
Optical laser radiation precautions
Do not install or terminate fibers while the light source is active. Care must be taken to ensure
that the instrument has been turned OFF before inspecting the end face(s) of the instrument,
or any optical patch cords connected to this instrument. Never look directly into a live fiber;
ensure that your eyes are protected at all times.
The use of controls, adjustments, and procedures other than those specified herein may result
in exposure to hazardous situations involving optical radiation.
Electrostatic discharge precautions
The BERT 1005 product is sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Store the unused product in
the original protective electrostatic packaging that the product was shipped in.
Ensure that a wrist strap and grounding table mat is used when unpacking or handling the BERT 1005
product. Proper grounding and ESD management practices should always be followed to ensure that no
ESD damage is caused to the BERT product.
Electromagnetic compatibility
•For electromagnetic compatibility, this instrument is a Class A product. It is intended for use
in an industrial environment. There may be potential difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic
compatibility in other environments, due to conducted as well as radiated disturbances.
•Wherever the symbol is printed on the unit, refer to the instructions provided in the
device documentation for related safety information. Ensure that the required conditions
are met and understood before using the product.

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3Introducing the BERT 1005 –Bit error rate tester
The BERT 1005 product is a 4-channel pattern generator and error detector for the design,
characterization, and production of optical transceivers and opto-electrical components at data rates
up to 14.5 Gb/s.
BERT 1005 PXIe module overview & features
BERT 1005 MATRIQ instrument overview & features
1
Status LEDs for error detector
2
Error detector RF input
3
Status LEDs for pattern generator
4
Pattern generator RF output
5
Divided clock output
6
Ethernet port
7
Ventilation fan (DO NOT OBSTRUCT)
8
Power supply port
9
USB type B port
10
IP address LCD screen
11
On / Off push button
1
Fastening screws
2
Status LEDs for error detector
3
RF harness
4
Error detector RF input
5
Status LEDs for pattern generator
6
Pattern generator RF output
7
Divided clock output
8
Model identifier label
9
Fastening clip
10
PXIe headers
11
BERT PXIe module information

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•You must use the external power supply that has been supplied by Quantifi Photonics
with the unit. Any attempt to use a different external power supply may cause product
damage and will void your warranty.
•The external power supply that has been used with the unit can only be used with that
unit. Do not use it with any other product.
BERT 1005 error detector RF input and the pattern generator RF output
1a
Error detector channel 1 (Positive)
5a
Pattern generator channel 1 (Positive)
1b
Error detector channel 1 (Negative)
5b
Pattern generator channel 1 (Negative)
2a
Error detector channel 2 (Positive)
6a
Pattern generator channel 2 (Positive)
2b
Error detector channel 2 (Negative)
6b
Pattern generator channel 2 (Negative)
3a
Error detector channel 3 (Positive)
7a
Pattern generator channel 3 (Positive)
3b
Error detector channel 3 (Negative)
7b
Pattern generator channel 3 (Negative)
4a
Error detector channel 4 (Positive)
8a
Pattern generator channel 4 (Positive)
4b
Error detector channel 4 (Negative)
8b
Pattern generator channel 4 (Negative)

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Status LEDs
The status LEDs are used to show the operation state of the BERT 1005 product.
When the system is powered on, the LEDs are turned sequentially in green and then red. Afterwards, the
color changes to orange, to show the initialization state of the system, and then the LEDs are turned off.
For each channel of the pulse pattern generator (PPG):
•Green –Pattern generation is running.
•Off –The module is powered off or no pattern generation is running.
For each channel of the error detector (ED):
•Green –Error detection is running.
•Orange –Eye scan is running.
•Off –The module is powered off or no error detection or eye scan is running.

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4Connecting optical fibers
DO NOT attempt to remove or adjust any component of the product while the power is on.
Ensure the product is powered OFF, and that the correct handling procedure detailed herein is
followed when you remove or install any products.
To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings always inspect fiber end faces.
Make sure they are cleaned as detailed below before inserting into any port. Quantifi Photonics
is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.
The type of optical connectors on the BERT 1005 product can be found printed on the front
plate of the product. Joining mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules and fibre faces.
After a cold boot, wait at least 30 minutes before starting to use the error detection or pattern
generation modules.
To keep connectors clean and in good condition, Quantifi Photonics strongly recommends inspection
with a fiber inspection probe before connecting them. Failure to do so will result in permanent damage
to the connectors and degradation of future measurements.
Quantifi Photonics uses high quality connectors in compliance with EIA-455-21A standards.
Cleaning and connecting optical fibers
To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:
1. Inspect the fiber using a fiber inspection microscope. If the fiber is clean, proceed to connect it
to the desired port.
2. If the fiber is dirty, clean it as detailed below.
3. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
4. Use compressed air to dry completely.
5. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.
6. Carefully align the connector and port to prevent the fiber end from touching the outside of the
port or rubbing against other surfaces. If the connector features a key, ensure that it is correctly
mated into the corresponding notch of the port bulkhead.
7. Push the connector in so that the fiber-optic cable is firmly in place, thus ensuring adequate
contact. If your connector features a screw sleeve, tighten the connector enough to firmly
maintain the fiber in place. Do not over tighten, as this will damage the fiber and the port
bulkhead.
If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you will notice large signal
loss and reflection .

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Connector care
To connect to the BERT 1005 product, RF Coax array harness is required. Connectors in the high
frequency range have precision dimensions and require proper handling to avoid inadvertent damage.
The most common cause of measurement error is bad connections caused by malfunctioning
connectors.
Although all connectors eventually wear, with knowledge, care, and proper technique, you can maximize
the accuracy, repeatability, and lifetime of coaxial connectors.
The RF Coax array on the BERT front panel will gradually wear each time the harness is harness is
connected or disconnected from the front panel. Where possible, avoid frequent
connection/disconnections.
To connect or remove the RF Coax array, always use the proper connector removal tool
•If you use a pattern generation or error detection channel as single-ended output or input,
terminate the other end with a 50 ohm terminator.
•To avoid waveform distortion and therefore ensure module performance, terminate the RF
ports of all unused channels with 50 ohm terminators.
Cable selection
When measuring differential signals or using the pattern generator to drive a differential circuit,
consider matching the phase of the cables being used. The cables used to attach the DUT must have the
same time difference and the same length.
For slow signals with large bit periods, a cable mismatch such as 5 ps has little impact on the results.
However, for fast signals with small bit periods, the impact is significant. For example, for a data rate of
14.5 Gb/s that has the bit period of 70 ps, a cable mismatch of 5 ps may lead to a significant error.
The BERT harness accessories offered by Quantifi Photonics for these products, with breakout SMA
and / or 2.92 mm connectors, are skew matched at the factory to within <2 ps of each other.
4.3.1 Use a torque wrench
To use a torque wrench correctly follow the steps below:
1. Make sure the torque wrench is set to the correct torque settings based on the table below:
Wrench type
Torque settings
1.0 mm
4 in-lb (45 N-cm)
1.85 mm
8 in-lb (90 N-cm)
2.4 mm
8 in-lb (90 N-cm)
NMD 2.4 mm
8 in-lb (90 N-cm)
2.92 mm
8 in-lb (90 N-cm)
3.5 mm
8 in-lb (90 N-cm)
NMD 3.5 mm
8 in-lb (90 N-cm)
SMA
5 in-lb (56 N-cm)

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2. Position the torque wrench and a second wrench to hold the device or cable within 90° of each
other before applying force. Support the devices to avoid putting stress on the connectors.
Proper torque on the connector can help avoid damage due to over-tightening, improve
measurement repeatability and extend connector life. Repeatable measurements require
consistent torque on all the connections in a setup.
3. Hold the torque wrench lightly at the end of the handle then apply force perpendicular to the
torque wrench handle.
4. Tighten until the “break” point of the torque wrench is reached. Do not push beyond the initial break
point.
4.3.2 Make a connection
To make a connection, follow the steps below:
1. Wear a grounded wrist strap.
2. Inspect, clean, and measure connectors. All connectors must be undamaged, clean, and within
mechanical specification.
3. For long coaxial cables, briefly short the centre conductor to the outer ground.
Long lengths of coaxial cable that have been disconnected at both ends can contain significant
electrical charges at voltage potentials high enough to cause conducted-static charge damage to
high speed instruments.
4. Carefully align the center axis of both devices. Push the connectors straight together so they can
engage smoothly. The male center conductor pin must slip concentrically into the contact finger of
the female connector, as illustrated below:
Rotate only the connector nut —NOT the device or connector body —until finger-tight, without
crossing the threads. Damage to both connectors will occur if the male center pin rotates in the
female contact fingers.
4.3.3 Separate a connection
To separate a connection, follow the steps below:
1. Support the devices to avoid any twisting, rocking, or bending force on either connector.
2. Use an open-end wrench to prevent the device body from turning.
3. Use another open-end wrench to loosen the connector nut.
4. Complete the disconnection by hand, turning only the connector nut.
5. Pull the connectors straight apart.

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5Handling the BERT 1005
BERT 1005 PXIe module installation
STEP 1: Power OFF the Chassis
STEP 2: Remove the module
from the antistatic bag.
Retain bag
STEP 3: Align module with slot
guide rails
STEP 4: Push module into slot
until resistance is felt from the
backplane connection
STEP 5: Engage the
fastening clip. Secure all
fastening screws
STEP 6: Power ON the chassis
•Do not remove the BERT 1005 product from the antistatic packaging until instructed
during the following installation procedure.
•The BERT 1005 product is sensitive to ESD. Ensure you are wearing a grounded wrist
strap at all times when handling the BERT product to prevent damage from
electrostatic discharge .
•Take care not to handle the optical connectors on the BERT, as once they are exposed
to skin contact this may leave corrosive residue which can damage the connector.
DO NOT attempt to remove or adjust any component of the PXIe chassis while the power is
on. Ensure the chassis is powered OFF, and that the correct handling procedure detailed
herein is followed when removing or installing any modules.
After powering on the PXIe chassis, please wait at least 2 minutes before attempting to
communicate with the instrument. This will allow the chassis enough time to finish boot
procedures and initialize the communication server.

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BERT 1005 PXIe module uninstallation
STEP 1: Power OFF the
chassis
STEP 2: Unsecure the fastening
screws and fastening clip
STEP 3: Pull out the module.
USE THE FASTENING CLIP TO
PULL. DO NOT PULL ON THE
CONNECTORS
STEP 4: Store module in
antistatic bag
STEP 5: Power ON the chassis

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BERT 1005 MATRIQ instrument installation
•You must use the external power supply that has been supplied by Quantifi Photonics
with the unit. Any attempt to use a different external power supply may cause product
damage and will void your warranty.
•The external power supply that has been used with the unit can only be used with that
unit. Do not use it with any other product.
STEP 1:
Insert power cord
STEP 2:
Power ON the instrument
STEP 3:
via USB –Connect USB cable
STEP 3:
via Ethernet –Connect Ethernet cable
STEP 4:
IP address will appear on the LCD screen
via USB via Ethernet

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6Software installation for the BERT 1005
The software installation process varies between the PXIe Modules (6.1) and the MATRIQ
Instrument (6.3). Refer to the relevant section according to the product type.
Cohesion Installer information for PXIe modules
The software must be installed on the PXIe Controller for the PXIe Chassis in which the Quantifi
Photonics modules will be installed, or the controller PC in the case of a MXI setup.
Minimum System Requirements: 64bit OS, Windows 7 or above.
Recommended System Requirements: 64bit Windows 10.
The Cohesion Installer is a single installation package that contains all the required drivers and
software, to support and control Quantifi Photonics modules on the PXIe Platform.
6.1.1 Installation overview
For the PXIe Controller to communicate with the BERT 1005 module installed in the chassis, software
and driver installations are necessary. This software is contained in the Cohesion Installer single
installer package.
•CohesionDriver: Drivers for Quantifi Photonics PXIe Modules
•CohesionSCPI: VXI11 compliant server for remote SCPI communication
•CohesionUI: Web-based Graphical User Interface
It is recommended that you save all work and close any open programs before attempting to
install the required software packages above.
6.1.2 Installation process
Windows 10 64bit:
1. Locate and run the installer CohesionInstaller-3.XX.XX.exe from the provided USB media device
(or download from the Quantifi Photonics website).

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2. Follow the on-screen installation prompts.
3. Continue with the installation by following the on-screen installation prompts. Choose the default
installation type –CohesionUI with Apache.
4. Installation will continue with the Chassis Mode selection. The default setting is Single Chassis Mode.
If unsure, proceed with the default mode setting.
To operate in Multiple Chassis Mode, additional hardware modules are required. The Chassis
Mode can be changed at any time, so it is recommended to select Single Mode until all other
configuration requirements have been met.

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5. At the end of the installation, it is recommended to select the Reboot now option, and click Finish to
complete the installation process.
6. Windows Security Alert may prompt the user for network access. It is recommended that both
options be ticked, to allow any network configuration.
7. After rebooting the system, on startup a User Account Control prompt will be displayed to run the
Cohesion Firmware Updater Utility. Click Yes and proceed with the application.