Fast measurement of bit error rate and error probability estimation in digital communication systems

Direct measurement of the bit error rate in relation to the signal-to-noise ratio can require a prohibitive amount of time because of the operationally low error probability (e.g. in optical fiber systems). We present a method of error probability estimation based upon signal acquisition and the evaluation of its statistical parameters. This method allows an accelerated measurement of digital transmission system performance using a computer-controlled digitizing oscilloscope.