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.