82541PI(ER) and 82562GZ(GX) Dual Footprint LOM Design Guide
Application Note (AP-468)
45
4.11
Physical Layer Conformance Testing
Physical layer conformance testing (also known as IEEE testing) is a fundamental capability for all
companies with Ethernet LAN products. PHY testing is the final determination that a layout has
been performed successfully. If your company does not have the resources and equipment to
perform these tests, consider contracting the tests to an outside facility.
Crucial tests are as follows, listed in priority order:
1. Bit Error Rate (BER). This test is a good indicator of real world network performance. It
should be done with long and short cables and many link partners. The test limit is 10 to 11
errors (10/100/1000 Mbps).
2. Output Amplitude, Rise and Fall Time (10/100 Mbps), Symmetry and Droop (1000 Mbps).
For the 82541PI(ER) controller, use the appropriate PHY test waveform.
3. Return Loss. This test indicates proper impedance matching, measured through the RJ-45
connector back toward the magnetics module.
4. Jitter Test (10/100 Mbps) or Unfiltered Jitter Test (1000 Mbps). This test indicates clock
recovery ability (master and slave for Gigabit controller).
5. Harmonic Content for 10 Mbps.
6. Output Symmetry for 100/1000 Mbps.
7. Rise and Fall Time for 100 Mbps.
8. Droop for 1000 Mbps.
9. Duty Cycle Distortion for 100 Mbps.