From biological imaging to quantum optics, the ability to characterize the number and rate of occurrence of transient events in the time domain is essential. These types of measurements are usually performed by instruments known as time interval analyzers, frequency counters, or event counters. Time interval analyzers are usually standalone instruments with limited memory, modest GUIs, and little software support. Traditionally, these instruments are entirely separate from the rest of the instruments in a given measurement chain and require exporting and processing large datasets to analyze behavior over time.

By contrast, FPGA-based devices offer the ability to easily integrate with the rest of the test setup, while processing and displaying huge amounts of data in real-time. Moku devices from Liquid Instruments offer a reconfigurable suite of 14 instruments, including the new Time & Frequency Analyzer. The Time & Frequency Analyzer functions as a standalone instrument, or works alongside other fully integrated Moku instruments in Multi-instrument Mode for maximum efficiency. It offers an array of features that replace the functionality of traditional benchtop instruments. This versatility allows users to perform a broad range of functions including photon counting, phase noise, and LiDAR measurements. On the output side, it can produce a voltage proportional to either the total number of events or the time interval itself, which is useful when working with active feedback loops. Its intuitive user interface and built-in software eliminate the need for cumbersome manual integration with other devices, streamlining experimental setups. This approach also significantly reduces the need for multiple, separate devices, leading to substantial cost savings and a more efficient research and development process.

Source: IEEE Spectrum Telecom Channel