Tektronix created the Z-Active probe architecture and set the industry benchmark for signal fidelity. Tektronix active probe architecture preserves high bandwidth while providing improved connectivity with low loading and low noise. The Z-Active architecture is a hybrid approach composed of a distributed attenuator topology feeding an active probe amplifier. The Z-Active probes use a tiny passive probe tip element that is separate from the amplifier, extending the usable reach of the probe. In traditional active probes, adding this much length can introduce signal fidelity problems. However this architecture maintains high DC input resistance and presents a higher AC impedance than other probe architectures. It accomplishes this while providing significant length between the probe body and the probe attachment point to the DUT. This architecture provides the best of both worlds: high DC impedance like existing active probes and the stable high-frequency loading of Z0 probes.

Many of today’s logic signals and serial bus signals require the capability to measure up to several volts peak to peak. These voltage levels may easily be viewed with the Z-Active architecture probes Tektronix (P7380A, P7360A, and P7340A) with the extended linear dynamic range. With a 2.0 Vp-p linear dynamic input range at the 5x attenuation setting, you can accurately measure MIPI D-PHY and C-PHY, LPDDR2 and LPDDR3, and PCIExpress signals at reduced noise levels. In addition the 25x attenuation setting’s linear dynamic input voltage range can be used up to 5.0 Vp-p for accessing even larger signal swings found during transition times.

Features and Specification of the Tektronix P7360A includes:

• Signal Fidelity: >6.0 GHz Bandwidth
• Extended linear dynamic range: 2 Vp-p at 5x Attenuation, 5 Vp-p at 25x Attenuation
• AC Loading: Zmin >290 Ω, 4 GHz to 8 GHz
• Extended linear dynamic range