HP / Agilent 70841B 3 Gbit/s Pattern Generator Module

The HP/Agilent 70841B is a 3 Gbit/s pattern generator module for the Agilent 70000 Series Modular Measurement System, designed to generate serial bit patterns for high-speed digital communication testing. Operating across 0.1 Gbit/s to 3 Gbit/s, the module produces PRBS sequences and user-defined patterns up to 4 Mbits in length. It integrates into the 70001A mainframe via MSIB and GPIB interfaces, providing eight I/O ports (six front panel, two rear) with Type N (F) connectors. The 70841B supports pattern types including PRBS, zero substitution/variable mark density test patterns, and word test patterns. User-defined instrument setups—up to 10 configurations—store in non-volatile memory. An external 3 GHz clock source can drive the module, and control operates through the HP 70004A color display with optional HP-HIL keyboard attachment. Floppy disk drive storage preserves custom patterns. The module occupies one 418 MMS slot and draws power and cooling from the 70001A mainframe. Typical deployment pairs the 70841B with the 70842B error detector module for bit-by-bit pattern validation.

## Technical Specifications

• Data Rate: 0.1 Gbit/s to 3 Gbit/s
• User Pattern Length: Up to 4 Mbits
• Pattern Types: PRBS, zero substitution/variable mark density test patterns, word test patterns
• External Clock: Accepts 3 GHz external clock source
• I/O Connectors: Eight ports (six front, two rear); Type N (F) connectors
• Communication: MSIB and GPIB interfaces
• Memory: Non-volatile storage for 10 user-definable setups
• Module Slot: 418 MMS form factor

## Key Features

• Generates serial PRBS and custom bit patterns up to 4 Mbits
• Floppy disk drive for pattern storage and recall
• Operates with or without external controller
• HP-HIL connector supports 46021A or 98203C keyboard control
• Integrates with Agilent 70004A color display interface

## Typical Applications

• High-speed digital communication system testing
• Device stimulation across 0.1–3 Gbit/s range
• PRBS and pattern-based validation
• Error performance analysis when paired with 70842B detector module

## Compatibility & Integration

The 70841B plugs into the Agilent 70001A System Mainframe and operates alongside the 70004A color display. It integrates with the Agilent 71603 Error Performance Analyzer and 71604B Pattern Generator. Pairing with the 70842B Error Detector Module enables comprehensive bit-by-bit pattern comparison testing.