Verifying automotive Ethernet channel conformance with signal loss and crosstalk measurements
Verifying the channel or link in an Automotive Ethernet system requires signal loss and crosstalk measurements to ensure information is carried without fail from the wired connection between the transmit and receiver modules to its intended destination. The two standards governing bodies for automotive Ethernet, the IEEE, and OPEN Alliance, specify a wide range of conformance tests, including basic cable and cable assembly tests, communication channel tests, connecter tests, and crosstalk tests.
The main instrument required for automotive Ethernet channel testing is a vector network analyzer (VNA). The VNA characterizes the channel’s impact on the signal to maintain signal integrity between the transmitter and receiver. Given the cable length used in the harsh automotive environment, it is critical to look at the impedance versus frequency to predict how the channel will perform within the vehicle.
Automotive Ethernet channel compliance test solution
Verifying automotive Ethernet harness assemblies, cables, and connectors requires complex signal loss and crosstalk measurements. The Keysight automotive Ethernet channel compliance test solution verifies the integrity of automotive Ethernet channels or links by measuring, analyzing, and comparing results to specification limits. Supported standards include: channel testing per OPEN Alliance (1000BASE-T1) TC9 UTP and STP specifications, OPEN Alliance 100BASE-T1 definitions for communications channel, and IEEE 802.3bw, 802.3bp, and 802.3ch.
