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Logic Analyzer Concepts
The Analyzer Hardware
Threshold
A precision octal DAC and precision op amp drivers make up the
threshold circuit. Each of the eight channels of the DAC is individually
programmable which allows you to set the thresholds of the individual
pods. The 16 data channels and the clock channel of each pod are all
set to the same threshold voltage.
Test and clock synchronization circuit
ECLinPS ICs are used in the test and clock synchronization circuit for
reliability and low channel-to-channel skew. Test patterns are
generated and sent to the comparators during software operation
verification. The test patterns are propagated across all data and clock
channels and read by the acquisition ASIC to ensure both the data and
clock pipelines are operating correctly.
The test and clock synchronization circuit also generates a four-phase,
125-MHz sample/synchronization signal for the acquisition ICs
operating in the timing acquisition mode. The synchronizing signal
keeps the internal clocking of the individual acquisition ASICs locked in
step with the other ASICs at fast sample rates. At slower sample rates,
one of the acquisition ICs divides the 125-MHz clock signal to the
appropriate sample rate. The slow speed sample clock is then used by
all acquisition ICs.