Keysight Technologies has introduced the AE6980T nGBASE-AU optical automotive Ethernet transmitter test solution, designed to qualify next-generation optical automotive Ethernet PHYs in compliance with the IEEE 802.3cz standard.
The standard defines robust multi-gigabit optical automotive Ethernet (2.5G–50G) over multimode fiber, delivering low-latency, EMI-immune links with high bandwidth and reduced cabling weight — forming the foundation for software-defined vehicles and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Optical automotive Ethernet technology is “transforming the in-vehicle network landscape”, Keysight Technologies said, combining high-speed performance, robustness and efficiency for future software-defined and autonomous vehicles. As auto makers shift toward centralized zonal architectures and higher levels of automation, optical links are emerging as a critical enabler to meet the stringent bandwidth, flexibility and reliability requirements of next-generation mobility.
Built on Keysight’s proven FlexDCA platform, the AE6980T integrates advanced Transmitter Distortion Figure of Merit-assisted measurement capabilities. As the key metric for assessing optical signal quality, TDFOM enables predictive analysis of real-world performance and simplifies device debugging through detailed margin and eye-quality evaluations. The compliance application further enhances efficiency by automating complex test setups and generating comprehensive HTML reports for validation and engineering teams.
Keysight collaborated with KD, a leader in optical automotive Ethernet, on the development of the IEEE 802.3cz standard and the final TDFOM test specifications. KD’s software-based TDFOM tools align with IEEE requirements and integrate with Keysight’s test systems and in-vehicle networking solutions.
David Ortiz, chief technology officer of KD, said, “Keysight’s new test solutions, designed for test houses, Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs, support the robust automotive optical communications standard IEEE 802.3cz. They represent another step forward in building a complete ecosystem that will drive the adoption of optical automotive Ethernet communications in future vehicle platform architectures.”
Thomas Goetzl, vice president and general manager of Keysight’s automotive and energy solutions, added, “Automotive Ethernet has advanced significantly, with optical fiber now delivering major advantages for enabling multigigabit in-vehicle networks. By combining our innovative test and measurement solutions with deep expertise in optical measurement technologies, we help customers develop and validate reliable high-speed connectivity for the next generation of vehicles.”
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