Nexus Technology, Inc.

Enabling Innovation for 30 Years

EdgeProbe(TM)

New Flying-Lead Analyzer Probe

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Nexus Technology announces the PRB-FL-20 probe. This probe enables flying-lead connectivity of modern and emerging memory technologies to leading-edge memory analysis systems. Specifically, the probe enables acquisition and analysis of DDR5, LPDDR5(X), LPDDR4(X), and LPDDR6 memory buses using a MA5100 series real-time memory analyzer.

Typically, connectivity is accomplished by using interposers with a single, high-density probe connection and not flying-lead probes. Interposers with high-density probes are often the recommended probing method because they provide better signal fidelity for the considerable number of probe points that must be simultaneously probed. In addition, they provide a more convenient and reliable connection than flying-lead probes. However, there are cases when a flying-lead probe may be preferred. An example is when using a high-speed oscilloscope. This equipment uses an oscilloscope interposer, which does not have a single, high-density probe connection. When an oscilloscope interposer is already attached to a target, there may be a preference to reuse this interposer to acquire data with the real-time analyzer. Two other use cases for the flying-lead probe are emerging memory technologies/form factors and when the target board provides features that allow flying-lead probing connection. In summary, the PRB-FL20 adds additional probing and interposer support for the MA5100 series of analyzers. For more information, you can visit and chat with Nexus at www.nexustechnology.com.

PRB-FL-20
PRB-FL-20
PRB-FL-20 Probe Heads
PRB-FL-20 Probe Heads
PRB-FL-20 Flying Lead Probe

MA5100 Analyzer

The PRB-FL-20 probe is designed for use with Nexus’ MA5100 series analyzer. This analyzer enables DDR5, LPDDR5, LPDDR4 and LPDDR3 performance, margins and capture up to LPDDR5X-8533, LPDDR5-6400, LPDDR4(X)-4267 and LPDDR3-2133. The analyzer’s key features include 1G-Sample acquisition depth, ClockSafe™ and Single Smart Frequency or Sixteen Smart Frequency Analysis. Find more information on the analyzer features at nexustechnology.com.

MA5100 Product Image
MA5100 Series Analyzer

About Nexus

Founded in 1991, Nexus Technology, Inc. is a leading supplier of test and measurement solutions and services for standardized buses with a focus on product and services to assist in the design, debug and analysis high-speed memory buses. Nexus Technology products and services are used worldwide across a wide range companies and industries. No matter where you are in your product development cycle, we have you covered! Visit and chat with us at www.nexustechnology.com.

Memory Analysis / JEDEC Compliance

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Speed, power and size are driving the need for oscilloscopes with advanced probing solutions. High-fidelity interposers are required to make full use of the oscilloscope’s capabilities when working with JEDEC specification such as DDR4 (JESD79-4), LPDDR4 (JESD209-4), DDR5 (spec. in development) and LPDDR5 (spec. in development).

High Fidelity Interposers and Probing Services

Nexus Technology high-fidelity interposers are available in three different designs so that you can choose the best solution for your application. EdgeProbe(TM) interposers implement a patented design, enabling their fit on to any target. Socketed interposers implement another patented design that enable the user to quickly move the interposer from target to target without soldering; as well as enabling the user to install different memory on the interposer without soldering. Direct attach interposers reflect the traditional approach to interposer design and remain a popular alternative when mechanical clearance and/or re-usability/swapping is not of interest. Modern and emerging JEDEC standards create challenging test environments.  Nexus Technology has advanced, high-fidelity interposer solutions and services ready for your challenges.

Interposer Family

EdgeProbe(TM) Patented Interposers
EdgeProbe(TM) Patented Interposers

Socketed Patented Interposers
Socketed Patented Interposers

Direct Attach Interposers
Direct Attach Interposers

Signal fidelity is key to accurate acquisition and analysis using an oscilloscope. Our EdgeProbe(TM) interposers – as well as socketed interposers and direct attach interposers – are designed to exacting performance characteristics. Advanced probing using Nexus Technology high-fidelity interposers

  • provide access to the signals you need;
  • are easy to install yourself or as a service;
  • fit anywhere w/patented EdgeProbe(TM) technology;
  • provide fidelity you can see and measurements you can trust with always included s-parameters;
  • and use exclusive patented designs.

You can see the signal fidelity of the interposer by comparing signals probed on the back-side of the component versus at the probe point of the interposer.

Signals With and Without Interposer Installed – No De-Embedding Filter Used!
Probed Signal Left Probed Signal Right
You can also see the signal fidelity of the interposer by inspecting the simulation results which show the insertion and return loss.

Example DDR5 Insertion and Return Loss
Example DDR5 Insertion and Return Loss

Attachment Service

Nexus Technology’s expert attachment service provides a ready-to-go test solution customized to your application. We will attach the interposer and any additional accessories to your application’s target. We can also power-on and test your application to confirm functionality.

Attachment Service
Attachment Service

You have made a significant investment in your oscilloscope and probes. Don’t let the last inch between the probe and your memory component impact that investment! Nexus’ patented interposer designs enable high fidelity measurements for accurate analysis.

Custom interposers are also available for unique applications. Contact us, we’re here to help!

EdgeProbe(TM) Interposers Solve Clearance Problems

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Memory Component Interposer Installed on a DIMM
Memory Component Interposer Installed on a DIMM

If the Memory Fits, the Interposer Will Too

Nexus’ patented EdgeProbe(TM) interposers enable high-fidelity measurements and remove the concern for mechanical clearance on your target. Download paper…

Interposer installed with a riser under it to elevate it above surrounding passive components.
Interposer installed with a riser under it to elevate it above surrounding passive components.

Historically, interposers have been designed to be larger than the memory component they support. This forces the use of a socket or riser to elevate the interposer above passive components or another memory component on the target.

Nexus’ EdgeProbe(TM) technology enables our interposers to be virtually the same size as the memory component for easy probing with an oscilloscope.

 

Long wire shown to illustrate probe tip connection.
Long wire shown to illustrate probe tip connection.

EdgeProbe(TM) interposer installed on a DIMM.
EdgeProbe(TM) interposer installed on a DIMM.

Advantages of EdgeProbe(TM) Interposers

  • Small size
  • Excellent signal integrity
  • Robust interconnect to any oscilloscope probe
  • S-Parameter files for simulation and de-embedding filter file creation
  • Available for all memory technologies including: DDR4, DDR3, LPDDR4, LPDDR3, Flash, GDDR5, and custom designs.

Remember, an easy attachment service is also available so interposer installation is done for you!

Give us a call. We’re here to help.