Featured Insights
Picotest and Signal Edge Solutions address TAPI concerns.
You may not have heard of TAPI, but you will. By necessity, testing extreme dynamic transient conditions is becoming more and more common for…
Seeing Through the Noise: Reliable Power Rail Measurements in High-Current AI Systems | Signal Integrity Journal
The Challenge: Measurement Uncertainty Obscures VRM Performance Gains Measuring power rail transient performance in response to high current dynamic loading is essential for power…
The Challenge of Measuring a 40 µohm, 2000 Amp PDN With a 2-Port Probe: How Much CMRR is Needed?
Benjamin Dannan, Signal Edge Solutions and Steve Sandler, Picotest Published in Signal Integrity Journal A two-part series of posts, firstly determining how much CMRR is needed…
Insights
Browse Picotest articles, videos and technical resources by topic, including power integrity, impedance, stability, noise/EMI and measurement techniques.
Automate VRM Testing with Python & SCPI: A Guide for Lab Measurements
Automating VRM Testing Just Got Smarter Manually measuring voltage regulator modules (VRMs) in the lab? That’s yesterday’s workflow. Signal Edge Solutions breaks down how to automate VRM testing using Python + SCPI, transforming test benches into efficient, repeatable, scalable systems. From setup to scripting, this guide empowers engineers to streamline lab processes and reduce error, […]
Calibration, Embedding & De-Embedding – Achieving Highly Accurate Impedance Results
OMICRON Lab hosted their 14th Power Analysis & Design Symposium – April 9th, 2025 Watch Steve Sandler discussing how to achieve Highly Accurate Impedance Results. Accurate measurements rely on proper calibration of the test setup to the correct reference plane. Traditional Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) offer a variety of methods for embedding, de-embedding, and calibration […]
Picotest Introduces Ultra-Low Inductance, GHz-Bandwidth Current Shunt Technology at APEC 2026
New (patent pending) current shunt architecture enables non-intrusive, real-time current measurement for next-generation power systems San Antonio, TX – APEC 2026 — Picotest, a leader in high-performance test solutions for power integrity and power electronics, today announced a new family of ultra-low insertion inductance, ultra-high-bandwidth current shunt resistors, designed to enable accurate, real-time transient voltage […]
Ultra-Low Insertion Inductance, Ultra-High-Bandwidth Resistors
Measuring current within a circuit enables optimization of system performance. This optimization may target operating efficiency — critical for mobile, portable, and wearable devices — or the characterization of switching behavior in wide‑bandgap (WBG) semiconductors, where transition times can be on the order of hundreds of picoseconds. Current measurement is also central to double‑pulse testing, […]
Seeing Through the Noise: Reliable Power Rail Measurements in High-Current AI Systems | Signal Integrity Journal
The Challenge: Measurement Uncertainty Obscures VRM Performance Gains Measuring power rail transient performance in response to high current dynamic loading is essential for power integrity validation. Modern AI GPU boards can experience dynamic currents exceeding 1000 Amps (A), creating demanding validation requirements. However, these evaluations have revealed that these critical power rail measurements vary wildly […]
Seeing Through the Noise: Reliable Power Rail Measurements in High-Current AI Systems | Signal Integrity Journal
The Challenge: Measurement Uncertainty Obscures VRM Performance Gains Measuring power rail transient performance in response to high current dynamic loading is essential for power integrity validation. Modern AI GPU boards can experience dynamic currents exceeding 1000 Amps (A), creating demanding validation requirements. However, these evaluations have revealed that these critical power rail measurements vary wildly […]
Parasitic Inductance Resistor Selection Guide
Precision Without Compromise: A New Era in High-Frequency Current Measurement What happens when you challenge the limitations of traditional shunt designs? You get something that isn’t just a new current shunt— you get a whole new foundation. With an optimized, coplanar architecture, independently validated in collaboration with Steven Sandler and Picotest, early performance data is […]
AI in Power and Signal Integrity Design: Revolutionary or Overhyped?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is buzzword of the day, with wild predictions about the replacement of engineers for writing code, testing, and performing actual designs based on constraints. The growth is highly accelerated by the money being poured into building the technology. Goldman Sachs says that it is expected that the global investment in AI could […]
The Ultimate Guide to the R&S MXO5 for Power Integrity
Power integrity is the silent hero of modern electronics. Without a stable power delivery network (PDN) and voltage regulator modules (VRMs), even the most brilliantly designed circuits can fail. The R&S MXO5 series oscilloscopes are a game-changer in this field, offering powerful features to diagnose and solve these complex issues. We’ve explored the MXO5’s capabilities […]
AI Data Centers Move Capacitors Back into the Spotlight
AI data centers are power hungry, pushing power density to new highs while requiring long-term reliability. The increasing power density, particularly at the board and rack levels, creates challenges for stability and the unpredictable high-current surges resulting from these many-core applications. Interestingly, these difficulties are driving a significant amount of new development in capacitors while […]
Picotest and Signal Edge Solutions address TAPI concerns.
You may not have heard of TAPI, but you will. By necessity, testing extreme dynamic transient conditions is becoming more and more common for measuring, analyzing, and optimizing PDNs for next-gen computer systems. Products like Picotest’s S2000 custom GaN dynamic transient load solution and Signal Edge Solutions PulseLoad Pro automated power supply solution address TAPI […]
All about the Picotest J2150A harmonic comb generator, applications and test set-up.
This article is written by Kenneth Wyatt for EDN. Picotest has a very unique harmonic comb generator (called the J2150A harmonic comb injector) that’s not only designed to reveal resonances in power supply and voltage bus designs (power integrity), but also has interesting uses in EMC measurement and troubleshooting. It also has several unique features […]
Calibration with De-Embedding for Precise Component Measurements | Signal Integrity Journal
I hear from a lot of engineers who have trouble getting their simulations and measurements to agree, so if you are having trouble, you are not alone. One of the most common problem areas is with the measurement of the Multilayer Ceramic Capacitor (MLCC) decoupling capacitors, and with good reason. Ceramic decoupling capacitors are sensitive […]
Power Integrity Measurement Tips with the MXO5 and S10 – Capturing Large Signal Phenomena with a TPSM828303A PDN
Large signal measurements are essential to Power Distribution Network (PDN) validation. By stressing the PDN, they reveal transient phenomena that are otherwise difficult to surface. This article discusses capturing large signal phenomena with the Picotest P2105A (S10) Transient Load Stepper browser probe. We recently explored Large Signal Phenomena using the MXO5 – Sequential Trigger Measurement […]
How to Simulate Low Voltage, High Power 2000 Amps to a Dynamic Digital Load
Hardware engineers are learning the hard way that power integrity (PI) requires electromagnetic (EM) simulation of the printed circuit board (PCB) power delivery network (PDN). Traditional rules-of-thumb and leveraging data sheet examples are not an option as designs move from hundreds of Amps (A) to thousands. 1000 A across a 100 microhm (µΩ) PCB PDN […]
Understanding Power Distribution Networks: Challenges and Tools for Mastering the Design Quest
Modern electronic systems require precise and reliable power delivery, yet designing effective Power Distribution Networks (PDNs) presents significant challenges. Issues such as noise, instability, and inappropriate capacitor selection can compromise performance and lead to device failures. How can engineers address these challenges? The key lies in leveraging advanced analysis tools like Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) […]
PSRR Testing with the J2120A Line Injector
Dealing with Line Injection Issues Here is information on the Power Supply Rejection Ratio (‘PSRR’) measurement setup using the J2120A line injector. Depending on the load current and impedance you are trying to drive, the output of the injector may drop several volts. In most cases, the line injector is almost certainly working correctly. It […]
Setting up your PDN Impedance Measurement with Picotest Probes
Ensuring optimal performance in electronic systems requires precise measurement of Power Distribution Network (PDN) impedance. Accurate impedance measurements help identify potential issues such as high-Q impedance resonances, poor control loop stability, or the potential for noise within the power delivery path. Picotest offers specialized transmission line ‘browser’ probes, notably the P2102A and P2105A, designed to […]
Harnessing Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR) with Real-Time Oscilloscopes
Time-domain reflectometry (TDR) is an essential tool for applications ranging from power distribution network analysis to verifying signal path integrity. This guide delves into TDR measurement techniques using general-purpose real-time oscilloscopes paired with a dedicated TDR step generator. While sampling oscilloscopes excel in time and voltage resolution for repetitive waveforms, real-time oscilloscopes are more widely […]
Examining power solutions for high-speed SoCs featuring multiphase buck converters
The rise in functions, processing power, and data rates makes power design for high-speed system-on-chips (SoCs) increasingly complex. Modern CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs, ASICs, and other components rely on a growing number of power rails to support their functional blocks, requiring precise sequencing during both power-up and power-down phases. Supply voltage levels are being reduced to […]
Analog Output Signal Modulated by VRMs
Masashi Nogawa’s latest article examines how the output noise signal of RF or analog electronic components is affected by disturbances in their power supply rails, typically regulated by voltage regulator modules (VRMs). In semiconductor components, the power supply rails are connected to analog input and output ports. Consequently, any disturbance on these power rails can […]
Dynamic Load Stepping: A New Way to Test Power Rails for GPUs and ASICs
As processors like GPUs, ASICs, and CPUs get more powerful, testing their power systems becomes harder. This article by Steve Sandler, published on How 2 Power -explains how traditional testing methods are no longer enough and introduces dynamic load stepping as a better solution. Learn how this new approach helps test power rails more accurately, […]
Building Accurate PI Models with VNA Software: A How 2 Power Guide
Using VNA Software to Build Accurate Models for Power Integrity SimulationsIn power integrity (PI) simulations, accuracy and reliable component models are critical, yet vendor-supplied models often fall short. This article explores how system designers can address this challenge by building their own measurement-based models using the new Curve-Fitting Simulation Model feature in OMICRON Lab’s Bode […]
The Importance of PDN Testing (Impedance) and the Role of the Bode Analyzer
Components such as CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs, and ASICs demand clean and stable power supplies to function effectively, often across various operating conditions. This is where Power Distribution Network (PDN) impedance testing plays a crucial role, providing engineers with a precise and practical way to measure and optimize power integrity. Before the advent and widespread adoption […]
Measuring Battery Impedance
Recently, Picotest has had several questions from customers working to measure battery impedance. There are numerous publications and articles about testing battery impedance, even from vector network analyzer (VNA) manufacturers such as OMICRON Lab, including a useful 2017 application note guide from Florian Hämmerle. This article will discuss some of the reasons for measuring battery […]
How to Test PSRR, PSNR and PSMR for Sensitive Applications, Including Optical Transceivers
Click here to download the paper Presented by: Steven M. Sandler, Managing Director, Picotest Originally presented on October 5, 2022 during EDI CON Online 2022 Abstract: The impact of power supply noise on high-performance systems is well established, and as a result, many applications now require power supply sensitivity testing to assure robust designs. There […]
DgCon 2019: Power Integrity Webinars for Addressing Power Related Noise in Distributed Systems
These presentations discuss many of the noise sources that impact sensitive circuits (such as LNAs, Clocks, and PLLs), how to measure them, and how to easily optimize their performance without under/over-designing the design solution. The impact of impedance on noise and jitter are discussed in detail including root causes and countermeasures demonstrating best design and […]
Webinar: Python Automation of Measurement and Multi-Dimensional Plotting of DC and AC Bias Sensitivity of MLCCs
With noted Power Integrity (PI) Expert Istvan Novak Highlights the need for AC and DC bias testing for capacitors and the support Picotest has for testing and modeling capacitors using the Bode 100, new Bode 500 VNA, and other analyzers including the Copper Mountain, Keysight, and Rohde & Schwarz models. Picotest provides Component Test Fixtures, […]
Cadence and Picotest Release NISM on Cadence PSpice
September 26, 2024, Phoenix, AZ: Picotest.com, a leader in high-resolution test and measurement equipment, has announced the availability of the non-invasive stability measurement (‘NISM’) software tool for Cadence® PSpice® from Cadence Design Systems, Inc. NISM is available for PSpice as of version 23.1 at no charge for existing customers. NISM is included as an embedded […]
Load Stepper Demonstration Station
These images demonstrate the set-up and capability of the Picotest Load Stepper. We set up a demonstration station at DesignCon 2024 and these slides take you through the key information. Related Products Insights Categories Featured Insights Related Insights
Quantifying PDN Impedance Flatness from Sandler NISM
Download Steve Sandler’s full paper for DesignCon 2023 A New Power Integrity Requirement to Supplement Target Impedance: Quantifying PDN Impedance Flatness Abstract: Target impedance is the most common power distribution network (PDN) design requirement used in industry today, but it is fundamentally limited because it does not account for PDN voltage responses to different load […]
Validating the Validators: Measuring the New Ultra-Low Impedance PDNs
Core power rails are now routinely in the 1 kAmp to 2 kAmp range, requiring a power distribution network (PDN) impedance in the range of 20 µΩ to 30 µΩ. I am known for saying “Measure something you know before measuring something you do not; and of the same order of magnitude.” This makes […]
Optimizing TDR Measurements: Picotest Solutions Integrated with Tektronix Oscilloscopes
At Picotest, we take pride in supporting Tektronix’s advanced TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) setups with our high-performance J2154A PerfectPulse® Differential TDR and TDR probes. Our collaboration empowers users to achieve precise single-ended and differential TDR measurements using Tektronix’s 4/5/6 Series B mixed signal oscilloscopes. The J2154A PerfectPulse® Differential TDR generator is the core of the […]
Tektronix Webinar – Managing AI Data Center Energy Demands
Managing AI Data Center Energy Demands Register Here – https://tek.brandlive.com/Managing-AI-Data-Center-Energy-Demands/en What You Will Learn The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly increasing energy demands in data centers. As AI models become more complex, power distribution networks (PDNs) face unprecedented challenges. In this webinar, experts will discuss critical considerations for powering AI infrastructure, including: […]
Measuring Converter Input Impedance Using Picotest Tools
To design a stable input filter for a switching converter, measuring input impedance is crucial. Picotest’s J2121A High Power Line Injector simplifies this by using a VNA (like the Bode 100 or Bode 500) to modulate input voltage and measure current. This method enables precise calculation of input impedance, crucial for maintaining stability. Picotest Products […]
Design, Simulation, and Validation Challenges of a Scalable 2000 Amp Core Power Rail
DesignCon 2024 Best Paper Award Winner Steve Sandler, Benjamin Dannan, Heidi Barnes, Idan Ben Ezra, and Yu Ni Designing a power distribution network (PDN) for a scalable 2000 Amp power supply presents numerous challenges. This paper will address these challenges while demonstrating how to design, simulate, and validate a scalable core power rail with a current of 2000 […]
Mastering 2-Port Impedance Testing with Picotest Products
Accurate low and ultra-low impedance measurement is crucial for testing and modeling electronic components and for evaluating the performance of power distribution networks (PDNs). Critical to today’s high dynamic current systems, the 2-port shunt-through measurement is the preferred method for assessing the impedance characteristics of PDNs and their target impedance. This article explores the essentials […]
Loop Analysis Directly from Time-Domain Waveform with SEPIA
Published in Signal Integrity Journal, written by Masashi Nogawa. Engineers can use a variety of methods to analyze the behavior of a voltage regulator module (VRM) using frequency and time-domain techniques, as we have seen starting from Part 6 in this series of articles. Part 10 showed how the load transient response to a step […]
Mastering 1-Port Impedance Testing with Picotest Products
Accurate impedance measurement is fundamental to modeling electronic components and testing the stability and impedance of power systems. 1-port impedance testing is a widely used method for evaluating the impedance characteristics of individual components or network ports. This article explores the essentials of 1-port impedance testing and how Picotest products, specifically the P2105A, P2104A, J2154A, […]
How To Measure 3-Port Impedance with Picotest Products
The accurate measurement of impedance in electronic systems is crucial for ensuring stability, reliability, and performance. Among various techniques, 3-port impedance testing stands out as a robust method for assessing the characteristics of complex networks and components especially those at elevated voltages (>12V). This article explores how Picotest products, specifically the J2111B (or J2112A) Current […]
Ultra-Low Impedance Measurement: Testing and Optimizing with the J2114A
Ultra-Low Impedance Measurement: Testing and Optimizing with the J2114A – High CMRR Isolation Amplifier – Ground Loop Breaker Testing ultra-low impedance is critical to ensure the accuracy and reliability of electronic components and systems. Precise measurement techniques, calibration, and high-quality instruments are required in this domain. Minimizing error factors is key. Along with our specialized […]
Achieving Better Energy Efficiency in AI Data Centers With Power Integrity Testing
Introduction Deployment of AI-based technology is happening in the Data Center. The processor-intensive servers are driving up energy demands. The table below illustrates the magnitude of the impact. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that data centers will account for up to seven percent of global electricity consumption by 2030; a number equivalent to the […]
Ferrites in PCB Design: What the Experts Say
“The best time to use a ferrite is never” Are you curious about the role of ferrite beads in PCB design? A thread posted on LinkedIn by Steve Sandler provoked a long discussion about the use of Ferrites in PCB design. Join Tech Consultant Zach Peterson of Altium Academy on a tour of industry experts […]
Ultra-low Impedance Testing Using the 2-Port Shunt-Through Measurement Technique
Ultra-low Impedance Testing Using the 2-Port Shunt-Through Measurement Technique Measuring ultra-low impedances (20 micro-ohm) is a challenge for any power distribution network (PDN) design engineer. The 2-port shunt-through measurement is the standard method for measuring milliohm impedances up to very high frequencies (GHz). Unfortunately, this measurement includes an undesirable ground loop related to the instrument […]
Power Integrity Testing Requirements Introduce Extreme Interconnect Measures
Power Integrity (PI) engineers are familiar with the ground shield effect in the 2-port shunt through measurement. If not, there are many papers, articles, and videos on the subject. PI engineers are less knowledgeable about the impacts on other power related measurements. In this article, we focus on power supply rejection ratio (PSRR), power supply […]
Low Noise Power Integrity Measurements – A Guide to Effective Probing with the MXO58 Oscilloscope
In this blog, we will examine the noise performance of various probing solutions with a Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) MXO 5 oscilloscope. The goal is to understand how to achieve the best low-noise solution all the way from the device under test (DUT) to the scope. When it comes to acquiring a signal, traditionally, we […]
“Probing” the Future of Power Integrity Test and Measurement
The future of power integrity is being affected by power-hungry AI accelerators and other high-performance chips. Learn how Picotest is trying to tackle the challenges with more advanced test probes. What you’ll learn: Related Products Insights Categories Featured Insights Related Insights
PDN Impedance Measurements Using Bode 500 and Picotest PDN Probes
Download or watch the presentation from Florian Hämmerle of OMICRON Lab at this year’s 13th Power Analysis & Design Symposium. The power delivery network (PDN) describes the complete system delivering the power from the power source (i.e. a battery or a AC/DC power supply) to the power sink (i.e. a processor or FPGA). The PDN […]
How To Video – 2-Port Shunt Through Impedance Calibration with Bode 100 and P2102A
This video provides a step-by-step tutorial on setting up and calibrating a 2-port shunt through impedance measurement using the Bode 100, Picotest P2102A 2-port probe, and Picotest J2113A Differential Amplifier. These measurements are the gold standard for power distribution network (PDN) design and power integrity. If you want to measure in the micro-ohms or sub-milliOhm […]
Picotest 2-port Probe Impedance Measurements
Learn how Brian Hostetler from HPE, Inc explains the measurements made on a few different power rails on a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. The primary task was to measure the impedance of a 3.3 V rail named VDD_3V3_S0. This rail needed to have low noise/ripple and provides 20.7 A to its load It is […]
ROHDE&SCHWARZ Power Integrity Demo
In this demonstration led by Mike Schnecker, Business Development Manager at Rohde & Schwarz, the focus is on showcasing the intricate relationship between power integrity and signal integrity using the RTP 164 oscilloscope. The RTP 164, equipped with a 16 GHz bandwidth and 40 gig samples per second, offers a robust toolkit for analyzing both […]
Alex Lidow and Steve Sandler: A Video Discussion on Power Electronics and Gallium Nitride
In this informal discussion between two power electronics industry veterans, the topics of Gallium Nitride and the current state of cutting-edge technology available in the power electronics industry for the power electronics engineer are discussed. Related Products Insights Categories Featured Insights Related Insights
Picotest Load Steppers are featured on Efficient Power Conversion’s ‘GaN Talk’ with Renee Yawger
How Picotest Uses eGaN FETs to Design Groundbreaking High-Speed Transient Load Current Steppers – Revolutionizing Power System Testing for Data Center, AI, EV, ASIC, and Server Applications We have launched a groundbreaking series of high-speed transient load current steppers using a previously unseen level of gallium nitride (GaN) integration. This latest innovation is poised to redefine […]
EDACafe Bunker Broadcast – Steve Sandler Discusses Testing 2000 Amp Chips with Sanjay Gangal
Check out this EDA Cafe Interview with Steven Sandler, CEO of Picotest. He discusses their 2,000 Amp ultra-high speed ASIC emulator (in-socket load) – and the new technology it required, including water-cooled PSRR injectors, better DC blocks, and even water cooled PSMR injectors for QSFP transceivers. Related Products Insights Categories Featured Insights Related Insights
Picotest Is Exhibiting At DESIGNCON 2024
At DesignCon 2024 we will be exhibiting the following products in our booth; Other companies exhibiting at the show will also have Picotest products – find our set-ups at these other booths – Tektronix, Siglent, Rohde & Schwarz, and PacketMicro. Related Products Insights Categories Feaured Insights Related Insights
High-Speed Transient-Load Steppers Test Power Integrity
January 19, 2024 Maurizio Di Paolo Emilio published on Power Electronics News High-speed transient-load steppers allow engineers to test and validate how well the PDN and VRM can respond to sudden changes in power demand. In electronic systems, particularly in integrated circuits (ICs) and microprocessors, power delivery networks (PDNs) and voltage regulator modules (VRMs) play crucial […]
The Challenge of Measuring a 40 µohm, 2000 Amp PDN With a 2-Port Probe: How Much CMRR is Needed?
Benjamin Dannan, Signal Edge Solutions and Steve Sandler, Picotest Published in Signal Integrity Journal A two-part series of posts, firstly determining how much CMRR is needed and then a demonstration of how to create a DUT and make a 40 µohm impedance measurement. Read the full publication in Signal Integrity Journal by following the links below. The […]
VRM Modeling and Stability Analysis for the Power Integrity Engineer
In the world of power electronics, the focus is on the power supply, and the load is modeled as a simple resistor. In the world of power integrity, the focus is on the decoupling capacitors required for the digital load, and the power supply is modeled as a simple resistor in series with an inductor. […]
Evaluating Voltage Regulator Stability Using Step Load Testing
Engineers are busy replacing and updating their aged PC boards that use traditional transistors, typically super-junction silicon MOSFETs and Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs). One hot area in this upgrading process is power supplies for pulse-load applications, such as laser pulse drivers, light beacons and RF transmitters. In this article, a voltage regulator (VR) with a […]
Picotest Pocket TDR Fills Important Niche
A time domain reflectometer (TDR) is generally a large, expensive benchtop instrument that measures impedance, PCB coupons, dielectric constants, PCB signal traces, interconnects, connectors, and cables using reflected waves. The TDR measures the time a pulse takes to issue from and to the source and using that data can compute a number of characteristics of […]
Picotest Releases Line of High-Speed Transient Load Steppers for VRM and PDN Validation
In a major technological leap, Picotest, maker of custom test equipment for power integrity and power systems testing, has released a series of very high-speed transient load current steppers for power integrity, thermal design power (TDP), IC package evaluation, and power systems testing that transforms the state-of-the-art in the industry. This is a welcomed and […]
Power Integrity: Ensuring Clean and Stable Power Supplies
The stability and cleanliness, from a noise perspective, of power sources are vital for the reliable operation of modern electronics. Power Integrity (‘PI’), is the discipline that addresses this aspect of electronic system design and test. At Picotest we exist to ‘solve the world’s most challenging electrical testing issues’. Many of which arise from the […]
PSRR in the Real World
Masashi Nogawa, Sr. Member of Technical Staff, Qorvo Published on Microwave Journal.com Explore the world of RF power supply and the challenges that power rails present in noise-sensitive RF and signal chain applications. In ‘PSRR in the Real World,’ authored by Masashi Nogawa, a Senior Member of Technical Staff at Qorvo. This article published on […]
Load Regulation, Vout/Iout, and Output Impedance
Published October 6, 2023 Masashi Nogawa, Sr. Member of Technical Staff, Qorvo In this article, we’re taking a short break from talking about Power Supply Ripple Rejection (PSRR) to look at another key topic in voltage regulation: output impedance (ZOUT). While PSRR is an important measure of how well a voltage regulator handles noise from […]
RF Signal Integrity to Power Integrity
Here is the complete collection of Marashi Nogawa’s series focusing on RF Signal Integrity to Power Integrity. Each article provides you with an investigation into the subject matter. Showing test set-ups, results, and observations. If you are involved in Power Integrity these articles are a must-read! ___________________________________________________________________________________ PSRR in the Real World August 3, 2023 […]
Migrating to 48V Power Comes with Measurement Challenges
New App Note for Data Center, AI, EV Applications – Testing Explore the implications of power distribution systems transitioning to 48V across data center, AI, supercomputers, and electric vehicle technologies. Discover the reasons behind this shift, including lower operating currents, reduced resistive losses, and enhanced semiconductor utilization. Listen to DesignCon 2023 Engineer of the Year, […]
If You Design Anything with a Power Supply, You Need a Vector Network Analyzer
When it comes to designing electronic circuits and systems, ensuring stability, quality, and reliable operation is paramount. If your projects involve power supplies, voltage regulation modules, passive components, or high-speed digital circuitry then you will want to understand more about how the Bode 100 can help you improve your products. The Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) is an essential […]
Application Note – Port Saver – The Smart DC Block
Most instruments don’t tolerate high voltages well. High bandwidth oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and vector network analyzers can easily be damaged by less than 5V. These instruments can cost more than a hundred thousand dollars or even several hundred thousand dollars. In our own recent unfortunate experience, using existing DC Blocks, we managed to damage two […]
AI, Power Integrity & Engineering Intuition A Recorded Webinar
In this episode of The EEcosystem Podcast, Steve Sandler and Judy Warner discuss;• The AI data center explosion (and its thermal wake)• Why SPICE modeling is falling behind• How engineers can scale innovation and intuition• Mentorship, measurement, and why wisdom still matters Listen now to learn what it takes to thrive as an engineer in 2025 and beyond. Steve […]
New Podcast – Power Integrity Everywhere From Space to Tik Tok
In another episode on the Keysight Learning Series with the EEcosystem, our CEO Steve Sandler talks to Heidi Barnes and Judy Warner on the Electronics Engineering Podcast. They discuss the basics of power integrity in applications ranging from Space to TikTok. Topics Covered: The need for power integrity is universal in today’s electronic applications. Leading experts […]
Noise Immunity Testing: Unveiling the Power and Benefits of P2124A High-Speed Water-Cooled GaN Probe
In precision measurement and power integrity testing, engineers face the constant challenge of ensuring accurate and reliable results in high-speed modulation designs. At Picotest, we are a leading provider of specialized measurement solutions, this article discusses the P2124A High-Speed Line Modulator. This state-of-the-art high-power water-cooled GaN probe offers exceptional noise immunity testing capabilities and delivers […]
J2154A PerfectPulse® Revolutionizing Impedance Testing – Features and Unbeatable Benefits of the New Differential TDR
Addressing the need for a low-cost single or differential TDR in a portable package, the J2154A PerfectPulse® Differential TDR emerges as a trailblazing solution, addressing a multitude of challenges with accuracy and precision. This article embarks on an exploration of the J2154A’s capabilities, delving into its unique ability to detect and locate small-resolution impedance changes. […]
Keysight and Picotest Release NISM for PathWave ADS
How to Optimize Design with SPICE Simulation: Expert Insights by Steve Sandler This session presents the essential role of simulation in the design and development ecosystem. The speaker draws on his own experience and shares some of his own simulation and the results to answer the fundamental questions. WHY do I need to simulate? WHAT […]
Picotest Releases New Opto-coupler CTR Measurement Instrument Set
Picotest Releases New Opto-coupler CTR Measurement Instrument Set Introducing the J2200A Optocoupler Test Instrument, a solution tailored to support opto-coupler CTR testing. With the J2200A, you can now measure CTR, ΔCTR, VF, and ΔRd, gaining invaluable insights into the performance of their opto-couplers. This includes critical factors such as saturation and operating bandwidth, essential for […]
Picotest Releases New Power Stage Isolator – Tests Plant Gain
The J2103A POwer Stage Isolator allows you to measure power supply open-loop and control loop gain including plant gain. The J2103A Power Stage Isolator is a general device that replaces feedback control circuits to control the power output circuit (Power stage), also, known as the power stage plant. The power supply plant gain represents the amplification factor […]
How to Optimize Design with SPICE Simulation: Expert Insights by Steve Sandler
This session presents the essential role of simulation in the design and development ecosystem. The speaker draws on his own experience and shares some of his own simulation and the results to answer the fundamental questions. WHY do I need to simulate? WHAT should I simulate? And what is the recommended workflow for efficient simulation? […]
Test Training Available from Picotest
Did you know Picotest has published a variety of training aids for engineers looking to learn power supply and power integrity testing methods? This includes test boards, parts kits, online video courses, and a Test Training Exercise Booklet. The Picotest Power Supply/PI exercise training booklet is an adjunct to the class we offer: Master the Fundamentals […]
Picotest Releases NISM Stability Tool for Cadence PSpice, Keysight ADS Simulators, and Hardware VNAs and Scopes
Picotest.com, a leader in high-resolution test and measurement equipment, has announced the availability of the non-invasive stability measurement (‘NISM’) software tool for circuit simulators. Picotest offers NISM for the Keysight® PathWave Advanced Design System (ADS) and Cadence® PSpice simulators at no charge. For Cadence PSpice, NISM and for ADS a free software download at the […]
Picotest’s New P2124A PSRR/PSMR/PSNR Water-Cooled GaN Probe at OFC
Pavel Zivny, Tektronix, explains the Picotest P2124A Noise Immunity Probe test setup shown in the Tektronix booth at the OFC (Optical Networking and Communication Conference and Exposition) show. Tektronix oscilloscopes and AFGs, paired with Picotest power line modulators, inject the proper noise cocktail into optical modules to facilitate compliance verification to both optical and interconnect […]
Picotest Releases the World’s First Water-Cooled Electrical Probe for High-Speed Test Applications
The P2124A High Speed Line Modulator is the first water-cooled probe for electronics testing. Its creation is yet another testament to Plato’s axiom that necessity is the mother of invention. Picotest manufactures several Power rail modulators for Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSRR), Power Supply Modulation Ratio (PSMR) and Power Supply Noise Rejection (PSNR) that are […]
Podcast with Steve Sandler: All About Probes and Ensuring Accurate Measurements
Judy Warner of The EEcosystem discusses with Steve Sandler the topic of probes. He explains how they work, why there are so many varieties of them, and how to ensure you get accurate measurements. We also discuss the upcoming presentations he’ll be making at DesignCon and connect you to more educational content on test and measurement practices. Podbean […]
Small Signal Models, Small Signal Problems
by Will McCaffrey, Northrop Grumman Published by Signal Integrity Journal The Voltage Regulator Modules (VRMs) are a vital part of any hardware design and critical to system-level power integrity analysis. When available, VRM models provided by the vendors offer a reasonable starting point for a power integrity design analysis, assuming the model properly represents the output […]
Capacitor Model Details Key to Measurement Correlation
By Steve Sandler Abstract: Power integrity and system engineers have the task of designing, optimizing, and assessing the power distribution network impedance. EM simulators are used to model these networks to optimize the decoupling capacitors and to perform worst-case assessments, using simulated dynamic chip currents and applying worst-case tolerances. Once the hardware is constructed, measurements […]
DC-DC Converters – Solid Return Plane or Cutouts Under Switch Node and Inductor?
by Kenneth Wyatt and Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, July 28, 2022 The question on whether the ground return plane should be cut away under the switch node or inductor of DC-DC converters has been an ongoing debate. The argument for an adjacent solid plane under all converter circuitry has been to contain the electromagnetic fields […]
Ultra-Ultra-Low Impedance (4 micro-ohm) Measurements
By Benjamin Dannan Published by Signal Integrity Journal, July 26, 2022 Companies like Intel, Nvidia, AMD, Qualcomm, and Broadcom are putting more cores on a single die. Ampere is an excellent example where they have designed a cloud processor solution with 128 cores on a single die. It is well known that to meet voltage ripple […]
Podcast with Steve Sandler: How To Measure Controlled Loop Stability and 12-Week Online Master Class
Judy Warner of The EEcosystem discusses with Steve Sandler the tool he developed called the Non-Invasive Stability Measurement Tool and how he transformed his lecturing and the Picotest business through Covid and beyond. He also gives Engineers a few tips on how to continue to thrive in this post-covid era. Episode highlights 1:17 Steve’s DesignCon Bootcamp […]
Measuring High Output Voltage Regulator Noise
by Masashi Nogawa and Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, June 14, 2022 New electronic applications, such as electric vehicles, 48 V telecom/data centers, and 240 W USB power delivery, demand higher voltage power supplies. These higher voltage power rails are no different from traditional 3.3 V, 5 V, and/or 12 V rails. Having a noisy power […]
How Can You Measure a HUGE Inductance with DC Bias?
by Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, May 19, 2022 Most DC/DC converters and switching voltage regulators use filter inductors. The inductors we see range from about 100 nH up to a few tens of microHenries (uH). These inductors operate with DC current through them, so it’s common to measure the inductors with DC […]
Do you need thick copper layers in PCBs for high currents? Are you sure? A Talk About Power Integrity and PCB Impacts with Steve Sandler and Robert Feranec
by Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, May 19, 2022 Most DC/DC converters and switching voltage regulators use filter inductors. The inductors we see range from about 100 nH up to a few tens of microHenries (uH). These inductors operate with DC current through them, so it’s common to measure the inductors with DC […]
The Ultimate Power Rail Noise Measurement
by Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, May 5, 2022 I receive many questions about measuring power rail noise: Do I really need to use a power rail probe to measure ripple and noise? Power rail probes are single ended, so does that mean I can only monitor one power rail at a time? […]
How Oscilloscopes Will Evolve Over the Next 5 Years
Signal Integrity Journal Webinar Series Title: How Oscilloscopes Will Evolve Over the Next 5 Years Date: May 5, 2022 Time: 8am PT / 11am ET Presented by: Steve Sandler, Managing Director, Picotest I receive many questions about measuring power rail noise: Do I really need to use a power rail probe to measure ripple and noise? Power rail probes […]
The Simple Truth about Complex Impedance Probes
by Steve Sandler Originally presented at the 11th Power Analysis & Design Symposium (Live Virtual Event), March 9, 2022 Picotest Power Integrity continues to become ever more challenging. Designs are becoming higher power and lower voltage, resulting in the need to accurately measure impedance well below 1milliOhm. Many applications employ many output PMIC’s or power […]
Ask the Experts: Getting Power Integrity Right
The push to minimize device size, with lower voltages and higher frequencies, means power quality is more important than ever. The higher density this requires allows less room for decoupling caps, requiring decisions on how many are needed and where to put them. How do you know if you’ve gotten it right? You ask an […]
Signal Integrity Journal – Top 5 Articles of All Time
As rated by reader views, here are the Top 5, Most Read Articles on SIJ. The Myth of Three Capacitor Values By Eric Bogatin, Larry Smith, and Steve SandlerMany designs today include three different value decoupling capacitors, or when using just one capacitor, a small value like 0.1 uF. These recommendations are based on 50-year-old assumptions that do […]
Determining FPGA Dynamic Load Current
“A Method for Dynamic Load Current Testing with a Benchtop Power Supply” by Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, February 15, 2022 This extreme measurement example is from a DesignCon 2020 paper, titled “A Method for Dynamic Load Current Testing with a Benchtop Power Supply” [1]. My good friend and colleague, Heidi Barnes, from Keysight, performed […]
How Fast is the Switching Speed of a GaN Switch?
by Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, January 25, 2022 How fast is the world’s fastest GaN switch? It is an interesting question, and maybe is mostly wanted for bragging rights, but the measurement does present some challenges. With the GaN switching 100 V at an expected bandwidth of above 1 GHz, the selection […]
Measuring the Bulk Dielectric Constant (Dk) on a Microstrip with a TDR
by Benjamin Dannan and Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, January 11, 2022 Most modern circuit designs depend on accurate logic signals at the logic receiver. This assurance is based on the careful design of the signal path impedance, including printed circuit board (PCB) transmission lines, interconnects, vias, and cables. If you have designed a controlled […]
How Can You Determine the Turns Ratio of a Power Transformer in a Sealed DC-DC Module?
by Steve Sandler Published by Signal Integrity Journal, December 28, 2021 I do not know if there was a legitimate reason for this request, but I was once asked to determine the turns ratio of a power transformer inside a sealed, DC-DC converter module. In any case, there is not much usable information since the […]
To the Moon and Back
How long does it take to turn on a light if the switch, battery, and light are on the Earth, but the cable connecting them goes to the Moon and back? For anyone who is interested to understand the voltages and currents in circuit similar to the question about wires going to the moon, Steven Sandler has […]
A Bode Plot Without Access to the Control Loop
by Steve Sandler This extreme measurement seems more impossible than difficult. The traditional stability assessment method for voltage regulators is the Bode plot. Access to the control loop is required and a small signal is injected into the control loop, usually through a resistor, placed at the top of the voltage sense divider, for this […]