MultiLane offers ML4035 400-Gbps cable test platform
MultiLane Inc. has released the ML4035 400G Cable Test Solution. The platform integrates a four-channel 35-GHz oscilloscope, four-channel 56-GBaud PAM4 BERT, and four-channel TDR with 12 ps rise time to enable characterization and validation of passive and active copper cables in a single unit. The ML4035 can accommodate cables of up 10 m.
The test and measurement instrument provider says the ML4035 provides a strong alternative to traditional methods of evaluating copper cables. Passive copper cables require multi-channel s-parameter characterization via VNAs, while active cables require BERTs. Signal propagation requires the analysis of eye diagrams, which requires a third instrument. The ML4035 can perform all three functions via a single instrument, MultiLane asserts.
Additional features include software that enables semiautomated operation and high throughput.
“MultiLane is committed to be the leader in 400G test solutions and the introduction of ML4035 is another milestone to make this happen,” said Kees Propstra, senior director of product marketing at MultiLane. “There was really no platform on the market that can truly test 400G active and passive copper cables. Our solution combines a four-channel BERT, scope, and TDR system that can measure s-parameters, eye diagrams, and bit error rates and provides the full complement of measurements to characterize active and passive cables.”
For related articles, visit the Test and Measurement Topic Center.
For more information on test instruments and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.

Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher
Stephen Hardy has covered fiber optics for more than 15 years, and communications and technology for more than 30 years. He is responsible for establishing and executing Lightwave's editorial strategy across its digital magazine, website, newsletters, research and other information products. He has won multiple awards for his writing.
Contact Stephen to discuss:
- Contributing editorial material to the Web site or digital magazine
- The direction of a digital magazine issue, staff-written article, or event
- Lightwave editorial attendance at industry events
- Arranging a visit to Lightwave's offices
- Coverage of announcements
- General questions of an editorial nature