PicoSource PG900 Series

The PicoSource PG900 Series from Pico Technology is a family of USB-controlled differential pulse generators designed for time-domain reflectometry (TDR/TDT), signal integrity analysis, and high-speed interconnect characterization. Available in three models — PG911, PG912, and PG914 — the series offers two pulse generation technologies: step recovery diode (SRD) outputs with sub-60 ps transitions and variable 2.5 to 6 V amplitude, and tunnel diode outputs with sub-40 ps transitions and fixed greater-than-200 mV amplitude. With less than 3 ps RMS jitter relative to the external trigger, the PG900 Series provides the edge quality required for meaningful impedance profiling, crosstalk measurement, and jitter characterization on multi-gigabit serial interfaces.

PG900 Series Specifications

Feature	SRD Output (PG911/PG914)	Tunnel Diode Output (PG912/PG914)
Transition Time	< 60 ps	< 40 ps
Amplitude	2.5 to 6 V (variable)	> 200 mV (fixed)
Pulse Width	200 ns to 4 us	200 ns to 4 us
Timing Deskew	+/-1 ns in 1 ps steps	+/-200 ps in 1 ps steps
Jitter	< 3 ps RMS	< 3 ps RMS
Clock Period	1 us to 1 s (internal)	1 us to 1 s (internal)
Output Connectors	SMA(f)	N(m) with pulse heads
Control Software	PicoSource 5 Pulse Control	PicoSource 5 Pulse Control
Accessories	Attenuators, adapters included	Attenuators, adapters included
Interface	USB	USB

The PG914 combines both SRD and tunnel diode outputs in a single instrument, providing the broadest stimulus capability for signal integrity laboratories that need both high-amplitude TDR stimulus (SRD) and ultra-fast edge characterization (tunnel diode) from one platform. The PG911 offers SRD outputs only, while the PG912 provides tunnel diode outputs only — allowing laboratories to select the pulse technology that matches their primary application. All models feature differential outputs with picosecond-resolution timing deskew, enabling precise control of differential pair stimulus for crosstalk and mode conversion measurements.

Watch the PicoSource PG900 Series introduction

Typical applications include time-domain reflectometry and transmission (TDR/TDT) for PCB trace and connector impedance profiling, spectral flatness measurements on cables and interconnects, timing and jitter analysis on clock distribution networks, and gigabit-rate semiconductor device characterization. The PG900 Series pairs naturally with PicoScope 9300 Series sampling oscilloscopes for a complete USB-based TDR/TDT measurement system. GSAS Micro Systems supplies the PicoSource PG900 Series with model selection guidance and application support for signal integrity and high-speed test requirements across India.