Key Takeaways
- Teledyne LeCroy's USB4 v2.0 / Thunderbolt 5 PAM3 Exerciser enables end-to-end testing for next-generation systems and devices
- The exerciser supports Gen 4 link rates and PAM3 signaling, allowing for 80 Gbps symmetric and 120 Gbps asymmetric bandwidth
- The Voyager M480x Exerciser software option provides script-based traffic generation and fine-grained control for link training, device enumeration, and error injection
- The exerciser is backward compatible with Gen 3 and can be used for compliance verification with the USB Implementers Forum's Command Verifier application
Introduction to Teledyne LeCroy's PAM3 Exerciser
Teledyne LeCroy has introduced a new software option, the USB4 v2.0 / Thunderbolt 5 PAM3 Exerciser, designed to support the latest USB4 Version 2.0 specification. This exerciser enables developers to perform comprehensive testing for next-generation systems and devices, including those with Gen 4 link rates and PAM3 signaling.
Features and Benefits of the PAM3 Exerciser
The PAM3 Exerciser offers a range of features and benefits, including:
Script-Based Traffic Generation
The Voyager M480x Exerciser software option allows for script-based traffic generation, emulating real-world USB4 Gen 4 behavior. This enables developers to thoroughly validate functionality, interoperability, and timing margins.
Fine-Grained Control
The exerciser provides fine-grained control over link training, device enumeration, error injection, and recovery mechanisms, allowing for systematic testing of a wide range of USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 configurations.
Backward Compatibility
The exerciser is backward compatible with Gen 3, allowing predefined command libraries and test scripts to automatically run at Gen 4 by changing the link configuration setting to 80Gb/s.
Comparison of USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 Configurations
| Configuration | USB4 Version 2.0 | Thunderbolt 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Link Rate | Up to 80 Gbps | Up to 80 Gbps |
| Bandwidth | Up to 120 Gbps (asymmetric) | Up to 120 Gbps (asymmetric) |
| Signaling | PAM3 | PAM3 |
| Compatibility | Backward compatible with Gen 3 | Backward compatible with Gen 3 |
Verification and Automation
The Voyager M480x can be used in conjunction with the USB Implementers Forum's Command Verifier application to verify compliance with USB4 Version 2.0 logical, protocol, and tunneling layer compliance workflows. The exerciser also features a powerful automation environment, enabling every aspect of exerciser operation and post-processing.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Teledyne LeCroy's USB4 v2.0 / Thunderbolt 5 PAM3 Exerciser is a valuable tool for developers working on next-generation systems and devices. With its support for Gen 4 link rates, PAM3 signaling, and fine-grained control over link training and device enumeration, this exerciser enables comprehensive testing and validation of USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 configurations. Its backward compatibility and automation features make it an essential tool for ensuring compliance and streamlining the development process.