
Key Features
Overview
Compatible with any 50Ω oscilloscope, the J2154A transforms basic test equipment into a comprehensive PCB trace analyser, cable tester, and impedance measurement system without the £20,000+ investment typically required for dedicated TDR instruments.
The internal 10.5GHz pulse generator and power splitter enable both single-ended and differential TDR measurements, making it ideal for modern high-speed digital designs requiring controlled impedance verification. Engineers worldwide rely on this tool for PCB coupon testing, signal integrity validation, and pre-production impedance verification across electronics development projects.Downloads
Why Engineers Choose The Picotest J2154A PerfectPulse® Differenzielles TDR
Cost-Effective TDR Solution
Instant Oscilloscope Integration
High-Resolution Impedance Detection
Overview
The J2154A revolutionises impedance testing by delivering sampling-grade TDR performance in a pocket-sized, USB-powered package costing a fraction of traditional instruments. This breakthrough enables signal integrity engineers to perform professional impedance measurements without the £15,000-£50,000+ investment typically required for dedicated TDR systems.
Where It Fits
- Single-Ended TDR P2105A TDR Probe Bundle
- Differential TDR P2103A Differential Probe
- Complete Solution TDR Measurement Systems
Why It Matters
| Feature | Why It's Important | What You Gain |
|---|---|---|
| 30ps Rise Time | Enables high-resolution spatial measurements | Detect impedance changes as small as 164 mils on FR4 |
| USB-C Power | Eliminates external power requirements | Portable testing capability for field and production use |
| Oscilloscope Integration | Leverages existing test equipment investment | Professional TDR without dedicated sampling instruments |
| Differential Capability | Modern designs require differential pair testing | Complete impedance characterisation for high-speed digital |
Wiring Quick-Start
| Host | Direction | Through | Device | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oscilloscope Ch1 | → | BNC-SMA Cable | J2154A Port 1 | TDR signal input/output |
| Oscilloscope Ch2 | → | BNC-SMA Cable | J2154A Port 3 | Differential mode (optional) |
| J2154A Port 2 | → | TDR Probe | Device Under Test | Signal injection point |
| J2154A Port 4 | → | TDR Probe | Device Under Test | Differential return (if used) |
| USB-C Port | → | USB Cable | 5V Power Source | 118mA typical, 130mA max |
Code Snippet
// Oscilloscope Math Setup for TDR Analysis // Configure for impedance calculation from reflection coefficient Math1 = 50 * (1 + Rho) / (1 - Rho) where Rho = (Ch1 - Ch2) / (Ch1 + Ch2)
// Time-to-Distance Conversion
Distance = (Time × c × √εr) / 2
// c = speed of light, εr = relative permittivity (~4.3 for FR4)
Questions and Answers
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What Types of Measurements Can I Perform Beyond Basic TDR?
The integrated 10GHz power splitter, fed by a 10.5GHz fast-edge pulse generator, enables:
- Frequency response analysis (FRA) for probe characterisation
- Vector network analysis (VNA) for S21 insertion loss
- Transmission line parameter extraction, including dielectric constant
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Is the J2154A Suitable for Production Testing Environments?
Yes. It is compact, runs on USB-C power. It suits production line impedance verification, incoming inspection of cables/connectors, and quality control of PCB coupons and finished assemblies.
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What's Included in the J2154A Package?
Each J2154A includes:
- TDR module
- Picotest TDR Demo Trace Board for learning and validation
- USB-C power cable
- Two BNC-SMA 12″ PDN cables
It comes with a one-year warranty.
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Can the J2154A Measure Cable Lengths and Dielectric Constants?
Yes. By analysing the time-domain reflections you can calculate cable/trace lengths, characteristic impedance and the dielectric constant of PCB materials. This is useful for materials characterisation and design validation.
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How Do I Calibrate the J2154A for Accurate Measurements?
Connect known impedance standards (open, short, load) to set measurement references. Compatible TDR probes can make this simpler; the Picotest P2104A, for example, ships with a calibration board.
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What Oscilloscopes Are Compatible with the J2154A PerfectPulse TDR?
The J2154A works with any 50Ω oscilloscope that supports math expressions, including Tektronix 4, 5 and 6 Series MSO scopes with TDR software. The J2154A generates the TDR signals and your oscilloscope provides the display and analysis.
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Can I Measure Both Single-ended and Differential Impedance with This Instrument?
Yes. Use connectors 1&2 for single-ended measurements (typically 50Ω), or connectors 1&3 with 2&4 for differential TDR analysis of high-speed digital pairs.
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What's the Spatial Resolution for Detecting Impedance Discontinuities?
About 164 mil (4.16mm) on FR4. This detects small impedance variations from via transitions, connector launches or PCB manufacturing tolerances.
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How Does the J2154A Compare to Traditional Sampling TDR Instruments?
Unlike a benchtop sampling TDR, the J2154A is portable, runs on USB power and works with your existing oscilloscope.
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