Use time domain reflectometry (TDR) to compensate for skew that load boards or cables introduce.

Use the NI-Digital Pattern TDR API or the TDR functionality of the Digital Pattern Editor to measure and deskew additional propagation delay of each channel that lies beyond the point at which the system timing is externally calibrated. Run the TDR measurement after changing cabling, instrument connections, or load boards.

Note For TDR to operate properly, ensure that the DUT sockets for the specified channels are empty when running the TDR measurement to open or shorted to ground when running the TDR measurement to short. Also ensure that the cables and load board connected to the digital pattern instrument make a 50 Ω controlled impedance system.