Improved time-base for waveform parameter estimation

An improved gated-oscillator time-base and associated auto-calibration algorithm for use in a high-accuracy sampling waveform acquisition system are described. The time-base architecture consists of a stable 100 MHz gated-oscillator, 24-bit counter chain, and a clock period interpolator. The nominal, uncorrected linearity of the time-base is approximately /spl forall/30 ps. By using an iterative, sine-fit based algorithm, the linearity has been improved to </spl forall/5 ps. Details of the performance and major sources of error of the time-base and correction algorithm in an equivalent time sampling system are also discussed.

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