Anritsu has introduced an automotive Ethernet test solution for validating 100BASE-T1 and 1000BASE-T1 compliance. Using the Anritsu ShockLine MS46524B vector network analyzer with the Tektronix 6 Series MSO oscilloscope, engineers can perform standards-based measurements of media dependent interface (MDI) return loss and mode conversion on automotive Ethernet components, including cables and connectors.
Anritsu’s MS46524B ShockLine VNA provides high dynamic range, phase stability and accurate differential S-parameter testing up to 43.5GHz. With SCPI-based remote control, it can be integrated into automated validation and production workflows. Combined with the Tektronix 6 Series MSO and TekExpress software, the system offers a flexible, scalable solution for developing and certifying high-speed, Ethernet-based in-vehicle networks, helping engineers accelerate next-generation automotive Ethernet development.
As vehicle networks evolve to support advanced driver assistance systems, infotainment and autonomous functionality, the need for high-speed, reliable data transmission continues to grow. The automotive industry’s transition to ethernet-based in-vehicle networks demands strict conformance with IEEE 802.3bw, 802.3bp and 802.3ch standards to ensure interoperability and signal integrity across multi-vendor systems. Anritsu’s solution addresses this challenge by combining precision frequency-domain analysis with automated compliance testing aligned to the Open Alliance PMA TC8 test suite.
“Automotive Ethernet has quickly become the backbone of modern vehicle architectures, and there is zero room for uncertainty in the physical layer,” said Javier Irazola, general manager of performance instruments at Tektronix. “When engineers use our 6 Series MSO oscilloscope and TekExpress automotive Ethernet compliance software alongside Anritsu’s ShockLine VNA, they can gain a clear, correlated view of time- and frequency-domain behavior. That helps teams move from debug to standards-based compliance testing with greater speed and confidence.”
Comprehensive and standards-compliant validation
Using the Anritsu ShockLine MS46524B 4-port VNA, engineers can perform high-accuracy S-parameter measurements to assess MDI return loss and mode conversion.
These tests confirm proper impedance matching and help ensure differential signal integrity, meeting IEEE compliance requirements. S-parameter data captured by the VNA is seamlessly transferred to a Tektronix 6 Series MSO oscilloscope, where TekExpress software for automotive Ethernet testing, based on the OPEN Alliance TC8 specification, validates results and generates detailed compliance reports.
A typical configuration to measure MDI return loss and mode conversion loss uses an ethernet test fixture, an automotive Ethernet DUT, a reliable common ground between the fixture and DUT, a VNA, phase-stable cables and calibration kits. Fixture qualification in accordance with OPEN Alliance specifications ensures accurate, repeatable measurements and reliable physical-layer validation for automotive Ethernet systems.
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