Instruments Combine Protocol, Logic Analysis Through One Gateway

The E2960B series is the industry's first complete and integrated x1 through x16 protocol analyzer and exerciser solution for PCI Express (PCIe) 2.0, according to Agilent Technologies. The instruments support both PCIe 1.0 and 2.0 with multiple probing options, as well as the newly invented protocol-to-logic (P2L) gateway. Before this, logic and protocol analyzers have been separate concepts and products, said Agilent. This release combines the key features of both into one product so the user can understand data from the physical layer up to the transaction layer. The P2L gateway connects the logic and protocol analyzers, allowing cross-triggering and marker correlation. Connecting multiple instruments and driving them from one station provides broad visibility into different parts of the systems, such as Front Side Bus and PCIe, without adding the burden of an entire logic analyzer solution to customers who need only a protocol analyzer. The exerciser portion of the instrument supplies the stimulus required for fast and efficient feedback on the link training behavior of a PCIe device and to drive the device to its limits. The exerciser solves this issue by providing multiple levels of stimulus. The Agilent E2960B series is available now. Prices start at $47,600. For more information, go to www.agilent.com/find/pcie2.