R&S Introduces GMSL-Based PMA Testing Solution
R&S Introduces GMSL-Based PMA Testing Solution to Accelerate Automotive SerDes Development.As the automotive industry moves towards higher levels of autonomous driving and intelligent cockpit systems, the demand for high-speed data transmission continues to grow. Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link (GMSL) technology has become a core communication standard for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI). Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) has introduced a Physical Medium Attachment (PMA) testing solution that fully meets GMSL testing requirements, providing the automotive industry with more precise and efficient testing methods.
The Importance of GMSL PMA Testing
GMSL, as the core technology in SerDes (Serializer/Deserializer) architectures, is primarily used for high-speed digital video, control signals, and power transmission. The performance of this technology depends on the signal integrity of the physical link, making PMA testing essential for ensuring the reliability of GMSL devices. The new R&S testing solution optimizes the testing process while providing in-depth signal analysis capabilities.
R&S RTP Oscilloscope: The Core of GMSL PMA Testing
The R&S GMSL testing solution is fully integrated into the R&S RTP oscilloscope firmware, allowing engineers to perform comprehensive PMA physical layer tests directly with the RTP oscilloscope. The main features include:
1. LiveEye Real-Time Signal Monitoring
The LiveEye technology in the R&S RTP oscilloscope enables real-time monitoring of GMSL signals with instant feedback. Unlike traditional offline analysis, LiveEye quickly identifies signal anomalies, improving test efficiency.
2. Advanced Jitter and Noise Analysis
Jitter and noise are critical factors affecting GMSL transmission quality. The R&S RTP oscilloscope includes advanced jitter and noise analysis tools to measure:
- Random Jitter (RJ) and Deterministic Jitter (DJ)
- Phase noise and Time Interval Error (TIE)
- Peak noise and bandwidth loss
3. Built-In Eye Diagram Templates for Forward and Reverse Channels
The R&S solution includes pre-defined eye diagram templates for both forward and reverse GMSL channels. Eye diagram testing ensures data transmission integrity by quickly verifying the signal opening.
4. Built-In Spectrum Analysis Functionality
The built-in spectrum analysis function in the R&S RTP oscilloscope enables narrowband crosstalk detection, ensuring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) between different signal channels.
5. Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) for Channel Characterization
The performance of GMSL links is affected by cables, connectors, and PCB traces. The R&S Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) provides precise characterization of these transmission channels, ensuring overall signal integrity.
The Impact of GMSL on the Automotive Industry
GMSL technology is widely used in the following applications:
✅ ADAS Sensor Fusion – Enables high-speed transmission of data from cameras, radars, and LiDAR sensors.
✅ High-Definition In-Vehicle Entertainment – Supports 4K/8K HD displays for enhanced user experience.
✅ Smart Cockpit Systems – High-bandwidth data transmission for fully digital cockpit environments.
✅ Remote Monitoring & Surround View Systems – Provides high-resolution, real-time video streaming.
Currently, multiple Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier 1 suppliers have adopted GMSL as the standard for automotive video connectivity. The R&S testing solution accelerates product development, optimizes system performance, and enhances reliability, helping manufacturers reduce time-to-market while ensuring compliance with the strict standards of the automotive industry.
Conclusion
By integrating RTP oscilloscopes, VNA, and other high-precision test equipment, R&S provides comprehensive support for GMSL physical layer testing. Its latest PMA testing solution features real-time signal monitoring, jitter and noise analysis, built-in eye diagram templates, and spectrum analysis. As autonomous driving and smart cockpit technologies advance, this innovative testing solution from R&S will be a key enabler in the automotive electronics industry.
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