Integrating legacy instruments in an LXI based test and measurement system

LAN Extension for Instrumentation (LXI) is a new standard for test and measurement industries. The idea promotes time based measurement capability with the aid of IEEE1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) running over the Ethernet network among test and measurement systems. However, legacy instruments do not have the sense of absolute time within the instrument to be synchronized with LXI units. Yet, some legacy instruments are not equipped with LAN interface for communication and control. Thus, an inter-device embody is needed to co-exist the legacy instruments and LXI units in a LXI test solution. This inter-device embody must have the ability to perform PTP synchronization and communication with LXI units, meanwhile interface with legacy instrument to perform time base measurement capability to the combination.