November 11, 2008

RF instruments challenge PXI versatility
One of the most dynamic applications for PXI is its use in the testing of complex, high-bandwidth RF applications. Tim Carey, PXI product manager at Aeroflex, explains the difficulties of creating RF-capable instruments and cautions that multi-module RF instruments could limit PXI's versatility. Read More

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Tek software analyzes 20-GHz-bandwidth RF signals
Tektronix's SignalVu vector-signal-analysis software for the DPO7000 and DPO/DSA70000 digital oscilloscope series enables engineers to characterize and validate wideband and microwave spectral events. Read More

Setcom unit tests entire wireless device protocol stack
Replacing a bench full of equipment, this compact test platform from Setcom tests the full wireless device signaling protocol stack, from the radio layer all the way up to the network services, multimedia, and applications layer. Read More

DTV: This is what will happen
Watch this video of what will happen on February 19 and tell me scenes like that won't happen all over the country. Read More

JDSU's platform addresses triple-play and copper test
JDSU has added more features to its T-BERD/MTS-4000 Multiple Services Test Platform, including advanced test and maintenance functions for copper-based networks and triple-play services. Read More

Take a challenge, win a prize
Answer a challenge question correctly, and you could be eligible to win a prize.

Oscilloscope Challenge:
Question: What is the order of the colors used to indicate the frequency of occurrence of a signal?
Prize: TomTom ONE GPS
Sponsor: Yokogawa

Data-Acquisition Challenge:
Question: Why do data-acquisition and control systems use a high-value pull-up resistor connected between a thermocouple and a fixed voltage?
Prizes: Two $100 AMEX gift cards (two winners of $100 each)
Sponsor: Test & Measurement World

Go to the Challenge Page

Troubleshoot intermittent signals; compress digital signals
Our November cover story explains how engineers at Mercury Computer Systems work together to design and test processor boards and systems for military applications. Another feature describes how to use a digital oscilloscope to locate an elusive waveform, and a third discusses digital signal compression in mixed-signal ATE. Plus, the issue also includes the PXI Test Report. Read it today

Vote for the Test Engineer of the Year
Our editors have selected the six finalists for this prestigious award. The finalists work in various fields, including Consumer Electronics Test, Device Test, and Medical Test. To help choose the winner and honor the test profession, cast your ballot by December 5. Read More

Industry calendar of events
Upcoming events include Globecom (November) and OFC/NFOEC (March). For more information about these and other test-related events, visit our online calendar.

November Issue

S P O N S O R E D Read Evaluating Oscilloscopes for Best Signal Visibility by Agilent in the TMWorld.com Resource Center This application note reviews some of the factors that impact oscilloscope update rates and shows you how to compute probabilities of capturing infrequent events. View Other Resources from Agilent Other Resource Center Features: • Testing Modern Radios by Tektronix • Free NI Data Acquisition Software - DAQmx 8.6 by National Instruments • Finding Power/Ground Defects on Connectors by Agilent