1-Gword/s pseudorandom word generator

An integrated circuit that generates 16-bit pseudorandom words at up to 1 Gword/s is presented. The concept of a pseudorandom word sequence is introduced. The pseudorandom words shown have excellent properties for testing serial or parallel components and data links. If serialized, the words would form a pseudorandom bit sequence with a potential maximum serial bit rate of 16 Gb/s. The circuit was implemented in an advanced silicon bipolar process with an f/sub T/ of 10 GHz. The chip includes 16 output drivers, with adjustable amplitude and offset, capable of driving 25- Omega loads with 0.8-V swings and 400-ps rise times. Total chip dissipation is under 4 W on a 2-mm*2-mm die.< >