Extended ZIF probe head from Agilent for PCIe 2.0 test and debugging

Agilent has released a new leads probe for its PCI Express (PCIe) 2.0 E2960B series analyzers, using the Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) probe head. The new ZIF leads probe uses the Agilent's Infiniimax ZIF design that uses the same probe points for physical layer measurements and protocol debugging using the protocol analyzer. This simplifies troubleshooting situations where the fault lies in the physical layer or in protocol interactions. The new ZIF leads probe supports both 2.5 GT/s and 5.0 GT/s PCI Express data rates.

Agilent's new ZIF leads probe, the same ZIF tip soldering point can be used with the oscilloscope for physical layer measurements or with the protocol analyzer to debug protocol problems.

Agilent provides a unique probe portfolio for PCIe 2.0, including the full-size mid-bus probe (straight, swizzle and split styles available), half-size mid-bus probe, slot interposer probe, leads probe and ZIF leads probe.

Agilent's extensive probing capabilities are combined with a PCIe 2.0 analyzer, with a reliable data capture engine, graphical user interface and a versatile form factor, making its E2960B series suitable for PCI Express 2.0 test and debugging.

The key features of the Agilent's ZIF leads probe includes,

Very low-capacitive loading that enables insight without influencing the monitored signals
Easy-to-disconnect probe head (ZIF probe head) to protect probe connector and ensure many reuses
Longer leads and probe length for easy access to probing points on the system under test Long probe head (ZIF probe head) for access to different types of probing points

"Agilent is the industry leader in PCI Express measurement, with tools that cover physical layer and protocol layer testing," said Jun Chie, marketing manager for Agilent's Logic and Protocol Test business. "With this unique coverage, we can provide our customers with leverage between these tools. This is a key time savings and cost savings for our customers, and very important especially in this economic climate."