Create Custom Masks for Serial Data Analysis

The masks database editor will edit an existing database file called EyeMaksProp.mdb with eye diagram and mask properties based on data entered from the test mask description. A typical test mask specification is shown in Figure 1. You will need this information along with the clock frequency for the standard being tested.

Figure 1:

A typical test mask specification

Start from the Windows desktop screen after exiting from the scope application([file]→[exit]). Then create a back up file for “D:\Masks\EyeMasksProp.mdb” to be safe. We will use this file to modify existing masks or add a new mask.

Start the mask editor : "C:\progamfiles\lecroy\xstream\masksdatabaseeditor.exe."

The opening screen of the editor will be a spreadsheet like the table shown in Figure 2. Select "Open" from the file pull down menu.

This will display the open file dialog box also shown in figure 2. Select the name of the mask database file, “D:\Masks\EyeMasksProp.mdb". Press the "Open" button to enter the database file. Select "New" from the Standards pull down menu. The opening screen of the editor will be a spreadsheet like the table shown in Figure 2. Select “Open” from the file pull down menu. This will give access to the "Standard Edit" dialog box shown in Figure 3.

Figure 2:

The opening view of the masks database editor and the open file dialog box

Figure 3:

The mask specification entered into the standard edit dialog box

Using the information contained in the mask specification (figure 1) enter the coordinates of each of the vertices and levels in the test mask matching the locations marked by the Xn and Yn labels in the test mask diagram in the standard edit menu. Enter the name and class of the mask along with the clock frequency. If the vertical coordinates of the specification are in Volts select "Absolute" as the as the mask type. If the vertical units are specified in relative units select "normalized." The mode field allows you to enter a brief description of the test mode, in this example we indicate a test on the receiver which has absolute vertical scaling. Click OK to insert into the mask database file EyeMasksProp.mdf. This file should be stored in the folder: "D:\Masks" on the SDA analyzer. When the SDA boots it will now add the mask "MyMask" to its selection as shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4:

- The newly created mask displayed on the SDA

Note it’s always good idea to back up your new edited database file for the future.

The "Mask in file" and "filename" fields can be used to load an arbitrary mask created in LeCroy's "MaskMaker" software.

If you install newer version of firmware (6.7.0.4 or later), the scope will automatically back up all files with .MDB extension in D:\Masks folder and then the scope will replace mask database file with newer one. The scope will put back up files in D:\Masks\Backup folder.

If you want to use your older database file, you need to replace your older mask database file into D:\Masks folder. You will see your older masks after you restart your scope application