As modern electronic systems become more complex, they demand precise, efficient, and versatile diagnostic tools in the lab. To meet these needs, test and measurement (T&M) companies are developing intelligent, software-defined instruments that offer greater flexibility and computational power.
In recent weeks, Rohde & Schwarz and Pico Technology have made significant software and firmware updates to key oscilloscope lines, while Keysight Technologies has expanded its series of modular solar array simulators (SAS) with two new mainframe and module models.
R&S Makes Zone Triggering Update to MXO Oscilloscopes
Rohde & Schwarz recently announced a new firmware update that introduces ASIC-based zone triggering to its lineup of MXO oscilloscopes
Zone triggering in oscilloscopes is a triggering technique that allows users to define specific display regions to isolate signal events for analysis. By focusing only on signals that enter these designated zones and discarding irrelevant data, it enhances acquisition speed and accuracy compared to conventional edge-based triggering. This is particularly useful for capturing signals with non-monotonic edges, serial bus patterns, and events across multiple channels.
Zone triggering on MXO oscilloscopes. Image used courtesy of Rohde & Schwarz
R&S claims to be the first in the world to offer an ASIC-based solution that works on analog channel signals, math, and spectrum. Thanks to this approach, R&S has unlocked a zone-triggering solution that is 10,000x faster than competitive options, allowing engineers to capture more granular detail. This update unlocks a zone trigger update rate of 600,000 waveforms per second, translating to a blind time between trigger events of less than 1.45 microseconds.
New oscilloscopes will come shipped with this update, and MXO 4, MXO 5, and MXO 5C series oscilloscope users can download the update for free online.
Pico Technology Pushes Firmware Updates to PicoScopes
Pico Technology has also recently released multiple firmware updates for its PicoScope oscilloscopes.
The first update applies to PicoScope 7 Automotive software, Pico’s flagship vehicle diagnostics tool. The update enhances vehicle system support by introducing advanced collaboration features, such as real-time data sharing and remote access capabilities. The goal of the update is to allow teams to work together more effectively, regardless of their physical locations. It enhances user interfaces and diagnostic tools to facilitate quicker and more accurate troubleshooting of complex automotive systems.
Advanced collaboration with PicoScope 7 Automotive. Image used courtesy of Pico Technology
Pico Technology also released an update that bestows all PicoScopes with a serial decoder for the 10BASE-T1S automotive Ethernet standard. With this update, PicoScope users can perform a comprehensive analysis of automotive Ethernet networks, facilitating detailed diagnostics and robust communication within vehicle systems. The update is free of charge for PicoScope 7 to 40 software.
Keysight Expands Modular Photovoltaic Emulation Platform
Finally, Keysight Technologies recently expanded its Modular Photovoltaic Emulation Platform, the MP4300A series, with new high-power modules for designing space-bound electronics.
MP4300A series modular solar array simulators. Image used courtesy of Keysight Technologies
The new MP4351A and MP4352A modules deliver 1.4 kW with auto-ranging capabilities, offering 160 V/10 A and 80 V/20 A outputs, respectively. These modules allow the platform to now support up to 8.4 kW in a compact 2U rack space, enhancing the platform’s ability to simulate a wide range of photovoltaic conditions with high accuracy. For the business owner, the increased power density and improved thermal performance help reduce capital expenditure and operational challenges.
Other key technical enhancements include fast current-voltage (I-V) curve changes, quick recovery times, and a modular design that supports up to six channels with flexible testing configurations.
Improved Testing, Improved Design
These recent advancements in testing and measurement reflect a broader industry trend towards more intelligent, versatile, and collaborative tools that can handle the complexities of modern electronic systems. These developments help to improve current engineering processes while also paving the way for breakthroughs in emerging technologies. As we look to the future, we can expect continued integration of new features, like AI and machine learning capabilities, into these instruments to further enhance their analytical power and ease of use.
