Embodiments of a system for determining and optimizing the performance a signaling system are described. During operation, the system captures or measures a single-bit response (SBR) for the signaling system. Next, the system constructs an idealized inter-symbol-interference-free (ISI-free) SBR for the signaling system which is substantially free of inter-symbol-interference (ISI). The system then calculates an ISI-residual from the captured SBR and the idealized ISI-free SBR. Next, the system constructs a calibration bit pattern for the signaling system that is based substantially on the ISI-residual. Finally, the system uses the calibration bit pattern to calibrate, optimize and determine an aspect of the performance of the signaling system.