Acterna SDA-5510, SDA-5500, SDA-5000 User Manual

SDA Series

Stealth Digital Analyzer

Operation Manual

6510-00-0442, Rev D

May 2001

Notice

Every effort was made to ensure that the information in this document was accurate at the time of printing. However, information is subject to change without notice, and Acterna reserves the right to provide an addendum to this document with information not available at the time that this document was created.

Copyright

© Copyright 2001 Acterna, LLC. All rights reserved. Acterna, The Keepers of Communications, and its logo are trademarks of Acterna, LLC. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. No part of this guide may be reproduced or transmitted electronically or otherwise without written permission of the publisher.

Trademarks

Acterna and Stealth Digital Analyzer™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of Acterna in the United States and/or other countries.

Acterna and PathTrak™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of Acterna in the United States and/or other countries.

Acterna and DigiCheck™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of Acterna in the United States and/or other countries.

Specifications, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

Ordering information

This guide is a product of Acterna's Technical Information Development Department, issued as part of the SDA Series Operation Manual. The ordering number for a published guide is

6510-00-0442, Rev D.

Global Headquarters

20400 Observation Drive

Germantown, Maryland 20876-4023 USA

Toll Free 1-800-638-2049 • Tel [phone] • Fax [phone] www.acterna.com

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Notice

This product was tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This product generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this product in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.

The authority to operate this product is conditioned by the requirements that no modifications be made to the equipment unless the changes or modifications are expressly approved by Acterna.

Industry Canada Requirements

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

EMC Directive Compliance

This product was tested and conforms to the EMC Directive, 89/336/EEC as amended by 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC for electromagnetic compatibility. A copy of the Declaration of Conformity is provided in this manual.

Low Voltage Directive Compliance

This product was tested and conforms to the Low Voltage Directive, 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC. Conformity with this directive is based upon compliance with the harmonized safety standard, EN60950. A copy of the Declaration of Conformity is provided in this manual.

Important safety instructions

The following table defines safety terms. Failure to observe these precautions

while using the Stealth Digital Analyzer violates the intended use of this product.

Safety definitions

Term	Description
DANGER	Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not
	avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING	Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
	avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION	Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
	avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also
	be used to alert against unsafe practices.

When using the product, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, shock, and injury to persons, including the following:

1Read and follow all warning notices and instructions marked on the product and included in the manual.

2Use only the AC Adapter/Charger supplied with the product.

3Do not use AC Adapter/Charger outdoors or in wet or damp locations.

4Connect the AC Adapter/Charger to the correct mains voltage, as indicated on the ratings label.

5This product is intended to be used with a 3-wire grounding-type plug—a plug that has a grounding pin. This safety feature is vital to the safe operation of the instrument. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding-type plug by modifying the plug or using an adapter.

6Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord, and do not locate the product where persons can walk on the power cord.

7Avoid using this product during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from lightning.

8Do not use this product in the vicinity of a gas leak or in any explosive environment.

9Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous, high voltage points and other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

10CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with Acterna P/N 1118-00-0358. Dispose of used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Save these instructions

Contents

Preface
About the Manual............................................................................................		xxi
Section I Introduction .................................................................................		xxi
Section II	Field Units..................................................................................	xxi
Section III	Headend Units ........................................................................	xxiii
Section IV	Appendices .............................................................................	xxiii
Document Conventions .............................................................................		xxiii
Keystroke Conventions..............................................................................		xxiv
Chapter 1
The SDA Family
Introduction .........................................................................................................		1
Field Unit .........................................................................................................		2
Headend Units .................................................................................................		2
Field Unit (SDA-5000).........................................................................................		3
Quickly find entry points for ingress and noise...............................................		3
Pinpoint return path problems by analyzing digital
return path signals at any point in the field......................................................		4
Align return path amps more quickly and with fewer errors...........................		4
New Features and Benefits of the SDA-5000..................................................		5
Headend Units (SDA-5500 and SDA-5510).......................................................		5
SDA-5500 Stealth Sweep Transceiver ............................................................		5
New Features and Benefits of the SDA-5500............................................		6
SDA-5510 Stealth Reverse Sweep Manager ...................................................		6
Reverse Sweep Alignment.........................................................................		7
Ingress Detection and Troubleshooting .....................................................		7
Easy To Read Noise/Ingress Display.........................................................		7
Options..................................................................................................................		7

Contents
Chapter 2
Description and Basic Operation
Introduction .........................................................................................................	9
User Interface Elements....................................................................................	10
The Navigator Interface.................................................................................	10
Navigator Tabs and Icons ........................................................................	11
Key Controls..................................................................................................	13
Soft Keys..................................................................................................	14
Measurement Mode Keys ........................................................................	14
Alphanumeric Keypad .............................................................................	16
Cable Connection Ports............................................................................	17
Basic Modes of Operation.................................................................................	17
Level Measurement .......................................................................................	17
Sweep.............................................................................................................	18
Proof-of-Performance Measurement Tools ...................................................	19
Spectrum Analysis .........................................................................................	21
PathTrak Mode (OPT3 Field View) ..............................................................	21
Configuring the SDA-5000................................................................................	22
Global Configuration .....................................................................................	23
Measurements Configuration (Including QAM OPT4).................................	25
Digital Analysis (QAM OPT4) Options ..................................................	27
Channel Plan Configuration ..........................................................................	27
Sweep Configuration .....................................................................................	28
PathTrak Configuration (OPT3) ....................................................................	28
Diagnostics ....................................................................................................	29
System Information .......................................................................................	32
Printing Measurements and Files ....................................................................	33
Chapter 3
Channel Plans
Introduction .......................................................................................................	35
Channel Plan Configuration.............................................................................	36
Setting Channel Plan Parameters ....................................................................	38
Select Channel Plan .......................................................................................	38
Video Signal Type .........................................................................................	39
Channel Tuning Sequence .............................................................................	40
Build Channel Plan ........................................................................................	40
Edit Channel Plan ..........................................................................................	43

viii

	Contents
Editable Parameters .................................................................................	46
Configuring a Digital Carrier...................................................................	49
Configuring for Inverted Spectrum..........................................................	50
Configuring a QAM Digital Stream Channel ..........................................	51
Inverted Spectrum Features .....................................................................	52
Delete Unused Channels................................................................................	53
Specify Auto Measurements..........................................................................	53
Edit Limits .....................................................................................................	55
Edit Digital Limits .........................................................................................	56
Copy Remote Plan .........................................................................................	57
Chapter 4
Field Sweeping with the SDA-5000
Introduction .......................................................................................................	59
Test Point Compensation ..................................................................................	59
Test Point Compensation Configuration .......................................................	60
Sweep Receiver Configuration .........................................................................	64
Sweep Configuration .....................................................................................	64
SWEEP Menu Options ..................................................................................	67
Considerations for Sweep in the Field .............................................................	70
Connecting the SDA-5000 to a Test Point ....................................................	70
Signal Level Considerations ....................................................................	71
Wiring and Levels: Forward Sweep ........................................................	71
Wiring and Levels: Reverse Sweep (SDA-5000 OPT1)..........................	72
Sweep Setup...................................................................................................	74
Reverse Sweep Operation:.......................................................................	75
Reverse Telemetry Level: ........................................................................	75
Reverse Sweep Insertion Level:...............................................................	75
Forward Sweep Operation .............................................................................	75
Soft Key Icons: ........................................................................................	76
Forward SWEEP Screens ........................................................................	77
Frequency Screen ...............................................................................	77
Level Screen.......................................................................................	79
Limit Screen .......................................................................................	80
Tilt Screen ..........................................................................................	81
Reverse Sweep Operation (SDA-5000 OPT1) ..............................................	82
Reverse Sweep .........................................................................................	83
Reverse Injection Levels..........................................................................	83
Setting the Sweep Direction.....................................................................	84

ix

Contents
Reverse SWEEP Screens .........................................................................	85
Reverse Frequency Screen .......................................................................	86
Reverse Level Screen...............................................................................	86
Reverse Noise Screen ..............................................................................	87
Reverse Noise Level Screen ....................................................................	88
Reverse Noise Frequency Screen.............................................................	89
Reverse Amplifier Alignment Screens ..........................................................	90
REV ALIGNMENT Main Screen ...........................................................	90
REV ALIGNMENT Level Screen...........................................................	91
Sweepless Sweep ................................................................................................	92
Loopback Sweep (OPT2) ..................................................................................	93
Chapter 5
Reverse Path Troubleshooting
Introduction .......................................................................................................	95
Problems in Advanced Services .......................................................................	96
Problems in Troubleshooting the Reverse Path.............................................	98
Improving Accuracy and Reducing Wasted Time.........................................	98
Tools for Combating Reverse Ingress ...........................................................	99
CPD (Common Path Distortion) Analysis.....................................................	100
Recommended Setup for CPD Analysis......................................................	101
Evaluating TDMA Return Path Signals........................................................	102
Variable Time Slot TDMA..........................................................................	103
Troubleshooting TDMA ..............................................................................	104
Zero Span Measurements.......................................................................	104
Chapter 6
Measuring System Performance
Introduction .....................................................................................................	109
A Word About Measurement Screens and Icons.........................................	109
Measuring Signal Levels .................................................................................	110
Level Measurements....................................................................................	110
Tilt Measurements .......................................................................................	112
Tilt Compensation..................................................................................	113
Balancing Amplifiers .............................................................................	114
Scan Measurements .....................................................................................	115
Scan Rates..............................................................................................	116

x

	Contents
Audio Carriers........................................................................................	116
LEVEL Submenu...................................................................................	117
FREQUENCY Submenu .......................................................................	117
TILT Submenu.......................................................................................	118
LIMIT Submenu ....................................................................................	118
Carrier-to-Noise Measurements.....................................................................	119
Modem Carrier-to-Noise Measurements ......................................................	121
Why Measure Cable Modem C/N?..............................................................	122
Measuring Modem Carrier-to-Noise ...........................................................	122
Hum Measurements ........................................................................................	124
Modulation Measurements .............................................................................	126
CSO/CBT Measurements ...............................................................................	128
Chapter 7
Spectrum Analyzer Mode
Introduction .....................................................................................................	131
Spectrum Mode Operation .............................................................................	131
LEVEL Submenu.........................................................................................	134
FREQUENCY Submenu .............................................................................	134
AMPLIFIER Submenu ................................................................................	135
ZERO SPAN Submenu................................................................................	136
AMPLIFIER/LOW-PASS FILTER Submenu ............................................	137
TIMEBASE Submenu .................................................................................	138
LEVEL Submenu.........................................................................................	138
BANDWIDTH Submenu.............................................................................	139
Chapter 8
PathTrak Field View (OPT3)
Introduction .....................................................................................................	141
PathTrak Configuration .................................................................................	141
PathTrak Mode Operation .............................................................................	142
AMPLIFIER/LOW-PASS FILTER Submenu ............................................	144
LEVEL Submenu.........................................................................................	145
Node List Mode ...........................................................................................	145
Node Selection .......................................................................................	147
Node Information...................................................................................	147
Measurement Hold.................................................................................	147

xi

Contents
Chapter 9
Digital Analysis (QAM View OPT4)
Introduction .....................................................................................................	149
Quick Start .......................................................................................................	150
Selecting a Digital Analysis Mode ..............................................................	150
Using the Navigator Menu.....................................................................	150
Using the Measurement Mode Keys......................................................	150
Correcting Signal Lock Errors ...............................................................	151
Digital Summary Mode (Quick Start) .........................................................	151
QAM Ingress Mode (Quick Start) ...............................................................	152
Constellation Mode (Quick Start)................................................................	152
Equalizer Mode (Quick Start)......................................................................	153
Digital Summary Mode...................................................................................	153
Features and Definitions ..............................................................................	154
DIGITAL Main Screen Features ...........................................................	154
Modulation Error Ratio (MER) .............................................................	154
Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) ............................................................	154
Bit Error Rate (BER) .............................................................................	154
Forward Error Correction (FEC) ...........................................................	155
Modulation Format ................................................................................	155
Symbol Rate...........................................................................................	155
DETAIL Display....................................................................................	155
Equalizer Stress......................................................................................	156
Carrier Offset .........................................................................................	156
Basic Operation ...........................................................................................	156
Viewing the DETAIL Display ...............................................................	157
Viewing the QAM Level Display ..........................................................	157
Editing the Modulation Format..............................................................	158
Editing the Symbol Rate ........................................................................	159
QAM Ingress Mode .........................................................................................	160
Features and Definitions ..............................................................................	160
QAM INGRESS Main Screen Features.................................................	160
Basic Operation ...........................................................................................	161
Measuring QAM INGRESS ..................................................................	162
Editing the Modulation Format or Symbol Rate....................................	163
Editing the Reference Level...................................................................	164
Editing the Scale Parameter ...................................................................	164
Selecting the Maximum Hold Function.................................................	165
Constellation Mode..........................................................................................	166
Constellation Basics.....................................................................................	166

xii

	Contents
Decision Boundaries ..............................................................................	166
Common Impairment Types ..................................................................	167
QAM Modulation and Symbol Rates ....................................................	169
Modulation Error Ratio (MER) .............................................................	169
Bit Error Rate (BER) .............................................................................	169
Basic Operation ...........................................................................................	169
CONSTELLATION Main Screen Features...........................................	170
Viewing the QAM Level Display ..........................................................	171
Editing the Modulation Format or Symbol Rate....................................	171
Using the Zoom Feature.........................................................................	172
Equalizer Mode................................................................................................	174
Equalizer Main Screen Features ..................................................................	174
Basic Operation ...........................................................................................	175
EQUALIZER Main Screen....................................................................	175
In-Channel Frequency Response Screen ...............................................	177
In-Channel Group Delay Screen............................................................	177
Chapter 10
Automatic Test
Introduction .....................................................................................................	179
Test Locations ..................................................................................................	180
Parameters and Test Location Types...........................................................	181
Creating and Editing Test Locations ...........................................................	182
Entering a New Location .......................................................................	183
Deleting an Existing Location ...............................................................	183
Editing an Existing Location .................................................................	183
Performing an Auto Test ................................................................................	184
Choose Location ..........................................................................................	184
Edit Location ...............................................................................................	185
Select Probe Point........................................................................................	186
Compensation ..............................................................................................	188
Results File Name........................................................................................	188
Type of Test.................................................................................................	189
Set Schedule...........................................................................................	189
Temperature.................................................................................................	190
Canceling an Auto Test ...............................................................................	191
Auto Test Results.............................................................................................	191
Viewing Intervals.........................................................................................	194

xiii

Contents
Chapter 11
Files
Introduction .....................................................................................................	197
Storing Files .....................................................................................................	198
Viewing and Printing Files .............................................................................	200
Sweep References.............................................................................................	201
Overlay Mode...................................................................................................	203
Selecting a Sweep File to Overlay...............................................................	204
Chapter 12
Maintenance
Maintaining Your SDA Equipment ...............................................................	207
Visual, Physical, and Mechanical Inspection ..............................................	207
RF Connector Replacement.........................................................................	207
Battery Terminal Cleaning ..........................................................................	208
Charging the Battery....................................................................................	208
Cleaning the Instrument...............................................................................	209
Annual Calibration.......................................................................................	209
Worldwide Support, Sales, and Service ........................................................	209
Getting Technical Assistance ......................................................................	209
About Our Service...........................................................................................	210
Customer service locations ..........................................................................	211
Instrument services ......................................................................................	211
Product Enhancement Group.......................................................................	212
Test systems field engineering and installation ...........................................	212
Technical training ........................................................................................	213
Warranty information ..................................................................................	213
Equipment return instructions......................................................................	215
Chapter 13
Description and Basic Operation
of the SDA-5500 and 5510
Introduction .....................................................................................................	217
User Interface Elements..................................................................................	217
Soft Keys .....................................................................................................	218
Navigator .....................................................................................................	218

xiv

	Contents
Measurement Mode Selection Keys ............................................................	218
Support Mode Selection Keys .....................................................................	220
Diamond Keys .............................................................................................	220
Alphanumeric Entry Keys ...........................................................................	220
Alpha Entry Mode..................................................................................	221
Numeric Entry Mode .............................................................................	221
Multiple Choice Mode ...........................................................................	221
Printing ........................................................................................................	221
Global Configuration ......................................................................................	222
Global Setup ................................................................................................	222
Measurements Setup....................................................................................	225
Channel Plan Setup......................................................................................	227
Sweep Transceiver (SDA-5500)..................................................................	227
Reverse Sweep (SDA-5510)........................................................................	228
Basic Modes of Operation...............................................................................	228
Level Mode..................................................................................................	228
Tuning by Channel or Frequency ..........................................................	230
Scale Adjustment ...................................................................................	230
Tilt Mode .....................................................................................................	230
Level Adjustments .................................................................................	231
Scan Mode ...................................................................................................	232
Level Adjustments .................................................................................	233
Frequency Adjustments .........................................................................	233
Scan Rate ...............................................................................................	233
Audio Carriers........................................................................................	234
Limits .....................................................................................................	234
Measuring the Carrier to Noise Ratio..........................................................	235
Bandwidth Adjustments.........................................................................	236
Noise Offset Frequency Adjustments ....................................................	236
Measuring Hum ...........................................................................................	237
Monitoring the Depth of Modulation ..........................................................	238
Spectrum Analyzer Mode ............................................................................	239
Level Adjustments .................................................................................	240
Frequency Adjustments .........................................................................	240
How To Make FCC In-Channel Response Measurements ....................	240
How To Make CSO/CTB Measurements ..............................................	241
Sweep Mode (SDA-5500) ...........................................................................	243
Sweep Mode (SDA-5510) ...........................................................................	244
Frequency Adjustments .........................................................................	246
Level Adjustments .................................................................................	246
Working with Files ..........................................................................................	247
How to Store, View, and Delete Measurement Files...................................	247

xv

Contents
Using Auto Test................................................................................................	248
How To Create, Edit, and Delete Test Locations ........................................	249
How To Perform An Auto Test ...................................................................	252
Auto Test Location ................................................................................	253
Auto Test Characteristics.......................................................................	253
Test Point Type ......................................................................................	254
Voltage Measurements...........................................................................	255
Test Point Compensation .......................................................................	256
Results File.............................................................................................	257
Type Of Test ..........................................................................................	257
Immediate.........................................................................................	257
Scheduled .........................................................................................	258
Viewing and Printing Auto Test Files .........................................................	259
Status ................................................................................................................	266
Chapter 14
SDA-5500/SDA-5510 Sweep Configuration
Introduction .....................................................................................................	267
Forward Sweep Configuration (SDA-5500).................................................	267
Wiring Connections .....................................................................................	267
Setting Levels ..............................................................................................	269
Setting Forward Telemetry Levels and Frequencies ...................................	271
Forward Telemetry Level ......................................................................	272
Forward Sweep Insertion Level .............................................................	272
Include Audio Carriers...........................................................................	273
Enable or Disable Reverse Sweep .........................................................	273
Select the Frequency of the Reverse Telemetry Carrier ........................	273
Access Reverse Sweep Plans .................................................................	273
Creating Channel Plans................................................................................	274
Quick Build Channel Plan Procedure ....................................................	274
First Channel Plan Procedure.................................................................	275
Editing A Channel Plan .........................................................................	277
Testing the Transmitter Setup......................................................................	283
Configuring Reverse Sweep............................................................................	284
Stealth Reverse Sweep Concept ..................................................................	284
Basic Reverse Sweep Procedure..................................................................	285
Wiring Connections .....................................................................................	285
Single Cable - Split Band Network........................................................	285
Dual Cable Network ..............................................................................	287

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Contents
Reverse Sweep Setup...................................................................................	288
Enabling Reverse Sweep (SDA-5500)...................................................	288
Setting the Forward Telemetry Frequency (SDA-5510) .......................	289
Setting the Forward Telemetry Level (SDA-5510) ...............................	289
Setting the Reverse Telemetry Frequency
(SDA-5500 and SDA-5510) ..................................................................	289
Reverse Sweep Channel Plans.....................................................................	290
Creating a New Reverse Sweep Channel Plan ......................................	291
Selecting an Existing Reverse Sweep Plan............................................	294
Editing a Reverse Sweep Plan ...............................................................	294
Testing the Transmitter Setup for Reverse Sweep ......................................	295
Forward and Reverse Sweep (SDA-5500) .....................................................	296
Using Both Headend Units..............................................................................	297
Sweep History and Theory .............................................................................	298
Forward Sweep Theory................................................................................	298
Remote Operation and Channel Plans ...................................................	299
Telemetry Channel.................................................................................	299
Stealth Sweep.........................................................................................	300
Reverse Sweep Theory ................................................................................	300
Productivity Tools .......................................................................................	301
Markers and Limits ................................................................................	301
Sweep References ..................................................................................	302
Test Point Compensation .......................................................................	303
Reverse Amplifier Alignment................................................................	303
Reverse Noise Broadcast .......................................................................	304
File Overlay ...........................................................................................	305
Choosing Receiver Modes (SDA-5500 and SDA-5510).............................	305
Appendix A
Application Notes
Forward Sweep and Balance ..........................................................................	307
Step-by-Step Headend Setup for Forward Sweep .......................................	307
Forward Sweep Setup ............................................................................	307
Build Channel Plan (Configure; Channel Plan).....................................	308
Build Sweep Points (Configure; Channel Plan; Build Sweep Points)...	309
Sweep Transceiver (Configure; Sweep Transceiver) ............................	309
Copying Channel Plans..........................................................................	310
Field Unit Settings .......................................................................................	311
Before You Leave the Headend.............................................................	311

xvii

Contents
Forward Balancing and Sweeping ...............................................................	312
Common Forward Sweep Problems ............................................................	313
Standing Waves .....................................................................................	313
Spikes.....................................................................................................	313
No Communication................................................................................	314
Bad Response.........................................................................................	314
Faster Forward Sweep............................................................................	314
Frequency Response Identification........................................................	315
Other Applications.......................................................................................	315
Using the Portable Receiver Transmitter for Forward Activation.........	315
Tips & Hints ................................................................................................	316
Reverse Sweep and Balance............................................................................	318
Step-by-Step Headend Set Up .....................................................................	318
Reverse Sweep Setup.............................................................................	318
Build Channel Plan (Configure; Channel Plan).....................................	319
Sweep Transceiver (Configure; Sweep Transceiver). ...........................	320
Field Unit Settings .......................................................................................	320
Before You Leave the Headend.............................................................	321
Reverse Balancing and Sweeping................................................................	321
Another Way..........................................................................................	323
Considerations........................................................................................	324
Common Return Sweep Problems...............................................................	324
Standing Waves .....................................................................................	324
Spikes.....................................................................................................	325
No Communication................................................................................	325
Bad Response.........................................................................................	326
Faster Reverse Sweep ............................................................................	327
Frequency Response Identification........................................................	327
Other Applications.......................................................................................	327
Stealth Receiver with Transmitter Option .............................................	327
The "Noise" Mode .................................................................................	327
Tips & Hints ................................................................................................	327
Return Path Troubleshooting.........................................................................	329
History of CPD ............................................................................................	329
Troubleshooting CPD ..................................................................................	330
Test Location Considerations ......................................................................	330
The Noise Mode ..........................................................................................	331
Listening to Ingress for Identification of the Source ...................................	332
Return Path Egress/Ingress Testing .............................................................	333
Using a Variable Dwell Time to Catch Impulse Noise ...............................	333
The "Zero Span" Mode ................................................................................	334
Proofing and Testing .......................................................................................	335

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	Contents
FCC Title 47 Code of Federal Regulations, Subpart K, Section 76.605(a).335
Audio/Video Tests [76.605(a)(2)] .........................................................	335
24-hour Variation Test [76.605(a)(3,4,5)] .............................................	335
In-Channel Sweeping [76.605(a)(6)] .....................................................	336
CNR & Distortions [76.605(a)(7,8)]......................................................	337
Terminal Isolation [76.605(a)(9)] ..........................................................	340
Hum [76.605(a)(10)]..............................................................................	340
Headend Tests [76.605(a)(11)] ..............................................................	341
Leakage – Rule [76.609(h) & 76.605(a)(12)]........................................	341
Appendix B
Specifications
Frequency ....................................................................................................	343
Level Measurement .....................................................................................	343
Carrier-to-Noise...........................................................................................	344
Hum Measurement.......................................................................................	344
Depth of Modulation....................................................................................	344
Tilt Measurement.........................................................................................	344
Scan Mode ...................................................................................................	344
Sweep Mode ................................................................................................	345
Spectrum Mode............................................................................................	345
Zero-Span Mode ..........................................................................................	346
Intermodulation Distortion (CSO/CTB) ......................................................	346
Reverse Transmitter.....................................................................................	346
Telemetry.....................................................................................................	346
Data Storage.................................................................................................	347
Serial Interface.............................................................................................	347
Input Configuration .....................................................................................	347
General.........................................................................................................	347
Power Sources .............................................................................................	347
Forward Transmitter (OPT 2)......................................................................	348
PathTrak Field View (Option 3) ..................................................................	348
QAM View Option (Option 4) ....................................................................	348
Modulation Type:...................................................................................	348
Measurable Input Range (Lock Range): ................................................	348
Frequency Tuning: .................................................................................	348
MER (Modulation Error Ratio): ............................................................	349
EVM (Error Vector Magnitude): ...........................................................	350
BER (Bit Error Rate): ............................................................................	350

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Contents
Measurable QAM Ingress:....................................................................	350
Channel Bandwidth:...............................................................................	350
Power Source: ........................................................................................	351

Appendix C

Status Indicators and Icons

Status Indicators...........................................................................................		353
Soft Key Icons .............................................................................................		354
Additional Option-Specific Icons ................................................................		357
SDA Option 2 -- Portable Sweep Transmitter .......................................		357
SDA Option 3	-- PathTrak .....................................................................	357
SDA Option 4	-- QAM ..........................................................................	358

Appendix D

User and Error Messages

Introduction..................................................................................................

359

Appendix E

Glossary

.....................................................................................................................365

Index

.....................................................................................................................371

xx

Preface

The Stealth Digital Analyzer (SDA) is the new base platform for Acterna’s family of signal analysis and sweep meters. This manual will guide you through the theory and operation of the SDA headend and field units, providing in-depth, step-by-step configuration, operation, and feature descriptions.

ABOUT THE MANUAL

Section I Introduction

Chapter 1 introduces you to the new SDA family of CATV test equipment. In this chapter, you learn about the features and capabilities of the SDA field and headend units, and about the various options available.

Section II Field Units

Chapter 2, "Description and Basic Operation," describes the SDA-5000’s user interface and its basic modes of operation. You also learn basic configuration procedures and what you need to print files and screen shots.

Chapter 3, "Channel Plans," shows you how to configure your unit’s channel plan capability, edit channel plan parameters, create, copy and edit channel plans, and how to configure a digital carrier.

Preface: About the Manual

Chapter 4, "Field Sweeping with the SDA-5000," begins with coverage of test point compensation and how to configure your SDA-5000. Sweep configuration is covered in detail, after which you learn how to connect to amplifier test points and how to conduct forward, reverse, sweepless, and loopback sweeps. This chapter also describes reverse amplifier alignment.

Chapter 5, "Reverse Path Troubleshooting," describes the problems most common to the return path, offers tips to help you more quickly trace the trouble, and shows you how to use the Zero Span mode to look at TDMA signals.

Chapter 6, "Measuring System Performance," explains how to evaluate system performance by measuring key parameters. Operations covered include Level, Tilt, Scan, Carrier-to-Noise ratio (C/N), Hum, ModulationDemodulation, Composite Second Order (CSO) and Composite Triple Beat (CTB).

Chapter 7, "Spectrum Analyzer Mode," describes the SDA-5000’s spectrum analysis capabilities and how it can assist you in general troubleshooting and in examining TDMA signals with the Zero Span mode. CSO/CTB mode is covered as well.

Chapter 8, "PathTrak Field View (OPT3)," shows you how to use PathTrak mode for return path troubleshooting by comparing spectrum measurements at the node with current conditions at the headend.

Chapter 9, "Digital Analysis (QAM View OPT4)," explains how to use the new QAM digital channel tool. You’ll learn to measure the most critical characteristics of a digital channel, and how to use a spectrum view of ingress. You’ll also learn how to use the constellation view to assist you in your troubleshooting efforts and how to use the equalizer to correct the effects of reflections in the transmission path.

Chapter 10, "Automatic Test," explains how to perform automatic system tests, an easy way to acquire proof-of-performance compliance data. You learn how to create test locations and how to edit location parameters, as well as how to set testing schedules and how to view and print test reports.

Chapter 11, "Files," describes how to store, view, or print files created from field measurement data. Sweep reference files and measurement files are covered, along with the procedure for comparing a reference file with a "live" sweep in the field.

Chapter 12, "Maintenance," covers the routine maintenance tasks that a service technician can perform in the field. Inspection, connector replacement, battery terminal cleaning, general cleaning, and calibration are all covered. The chapter ends with a list of Acterna service centers worldwide.

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Preface: About the Manual

Section III Headend Units

Chapter 13, "Description and Basic Operation of the SDA-5500 and SDA5510," describes the user interface and basic modes of operation for the SDA headend units (SDA-5500 and SDA-5510). You also learn basic configuration procedures and what you need to print files and screen shots.

Chapter 14, "SDA-5500/SDA-5510 Sweep Configuration," shows you how to configure the SDA-5500 for forward sweep and for reverse sweep. It covers wiring connections, telemetry and frequency settings, channel plan creation and editing, and how to test the transmitter setup. You’ll also find important information about using the SDA-5500 and SDA-5510 together. In addition, this chapter includes a section on sweep history and theory that will deepen your understanding of what sweeping is and how it works.

Section IV Appendices

Appendix A, "Application Notes," contains the full text of four application notes that help to clarify many of the issues covered in other chapters in the manual. The four application notes are: "Forward Sweep and Balance," "Reverse Sweep and Balance," "Return Path Troubleshooting," and "Proofing and Testing."

Appendix B, "Specifications," lists the technical specifications for each unit.

Appendix C, "Status Indicators and Icons," provides a descriptive list of indicators and icons that you’ll find on the SDA’s screens and used throughout the manual.

Appendix D, "User and Error Messages," describes many of the messages that appear on-screen indicating a problem in operation or a malfunctioning unit.

The Glossary defines many of the terms used throughout the manual.

Document Conventions

Throughout this manual, typeface conventions have been adopted to help you quickly learn to use the instrument and its associated software:

Soft key and soft key icon names are in bold italic

Keypad key names and the names of icons other than soft icons are in bold

Menu and screen names are in UPPERCASE

Menu items, the options you can select, are in italic, except when they appear as the lead-in to a bulleted list item, when they’re bold

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Preface: About the Manual

Additional, important information appears throughout the manual in the form of Tips, Notes, Cautions, and See Also references:

NOTE: Notes provide additional information related to the text. They are designed to increase your understanding of the subject matter.

TIP: Tips suggest an action (an alternative method or shortcut) you can perform to help make the related procedure easier or quicker. They are designed to show you how to increase your efficiency.

CAUTION ! Cautions warn you about hazardous procedures, pitfalls to avoid, and procedures that must be done that might not be immediately obvious. They are designed to help you avoid costly or dangerous mistakes.

See Also

Cross references point you to locations anywhere in the manual where related information appears.

Keystroke Conventions

You frequently need to press several keys in succession to access the functions of the SDA units. When that is the case, the manual will tell you something like "press the Function and 2 def keys."

This means that you should first press the Function key, release it, and then press the 2 def key.

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Chapter 1

The SDA Family

INTRODUCTION

The Stealth Digital Analyzer (SDA) cable network measurement tools test a wide range of critical parameters, helping you prove and maintain your system’s performance. Advanced features include tools to support preventative maintenance programs for improving network quality. Applications include aligning amplifiers such as optical nodes, testing the performance of both forward and reverse path networks, finding and fixing sources of reverse path ingress, measuring signal quality (both continuous and bursty digital carriers), and fulfilling FCC and CENELEC proof-of- performance requirements.

You can perform comprehensive troubleshooting and preventative maintenance tests with accuracy and ease using Acterna’s SDA products:

•Quickly check frequency response, signal levels, hum, carrier-to-noise (C/N) ratio, depth of modulation, and monitor the general performance of the cable system

•Perform tests without interfering with CATV subscribers' service

•Evaluate system performance precisely and diagnose and eliminate problems quickly to maintain quality operation of your CATV system equipment.

Acterna’s Stealth Sweep System consists of at least two major components: a headend transmitter and a field receiver.

The SDA Family: Introduction

NOTE: One benefit of the SDA products is the increased sweep speed provided by the new SDA Stealth Sweep and

1	SDA Transmit operating modes.
	Keep in mind that in order to take advantage of these new
	features, you must be using SDA equipment both in the
	headend (SDA-5500 or SDA-5510) and in the field (SDA-
	5000).

Field Unit

In one lightweight package, the SDA-5000 is a powerful multipurpose troubleshooting assistant:

•A multipurpose forward and reverse sweep tool

•An advanced field spectrum analyzer that can measure ingress and noise to 5 microsecond bursts

•A digital carrier analysis tool capable of displaying digital signal performance characteristics

Headend Units

To check the frequency response of your system, the SDA-5500 headend transmitter injects low-level signals in the forward downstream path, inserting signals in vacant channel or spectrum areas. It also monitors the cable system's carrier levels in occupied spectrum areas for use in the noninterfering Sweepless Sweep, where the carrier itself is used as the sweep signal. In addition to generating carriers and using existing channels for sweep test signals, the SDA-5500 sends headend signal level readings to the downstream receivers with every sweep update. This technique enables the receivers to compensate for any signal level changes, maintaining the utmost measurement accuracy. The SDA-5510 performs reverse sweep functions only, but unlike the SDA-5500, it allows multiple receivers to work with one headend unit. The SDA-5500 and SDA-5510 can be used together using separate telemetry data carriers.

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The SDA Family: Field Unit (SDA-5000)

FIELD UNIT (SDA-5000)

The SDA field receivers conduct a battery of signal level measurements,	1
including a full scan of the cable spectrum to 1 GHz, in addition to
performing sweep reception. A proprietary digital signal processing (DSP)
technique measures hum and carrier-to-noise (C/N) ratio on modulated
carriers.
The receivers are streamlined, hand-held instruments weighing
approximately 7.5 pounds. A 320 X 240 backlighted dot matrix LCD shows
measurement data in both graphical and numerical formats. An extended-
life Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery (typically 4-5 hours operating time)
is standard.
Features of the SDA-5000 include:

•Fast scanning and spectrum analysis for ingress and noise detection (catch bursty noise as fast as 5 microseconds)

•A desired/undesired TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) digital carrier analysis allowing you to see the quality and performance of cable modems and digital set-top boxes in the reverse path

•Simple operation through the expanded and redesigned Navigator interface

•Built in pre-amp for reverse path alignment and analysis that reduces the jumper cables and assorted boxes you must carry and simplifies alignment methods. The pre-amp also allows you to better see ingress and noise from high value test points

These features address advanced services such as Internet, IP telephony, digital video, QAM analysis, and DVB.

Acterna offers current Stealth customers upgrade paths for units already purchased.

Quickly find entry points for ingress and noise

•Fast peak detection circuits see ingress from even transient noise sources

•Programmable dwell-time in spectrum mode

•“Dwell” on each frequency longer to find more of the noise more quickly

•Zero span offers infinite dwell

•Fast spectrum scanning makes searching for ingress interactive, eliminating the wait for the trace to ‘acquire’

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The SDA Family: Field Unit (SDA-5000)

•Observe noise signals clearly with the built-in pre-amp. Instead of needing to guess about a signal that is just above the noise floor, the built-in pre-amp allows you to clearly see and diagnose noise

1• Easily see the difference between meter-induced intermodulation and system intermodulation and CPD (common path distortion). A built-in low-pass filter strips away higher power forward path signals to examine just the reverse path

•Save money, connections, and time. Carry just one box with all the tools needed to find ingress

Pinpoint return path problems by analyzing digital return path signals at any point in the field

•D/U (desired/undesired) measures signal quality in-service and inchannel when you’re examining TDMA signals

•See data packet collisions

•View relative transmission levels for all the transmitters present in a cascade

•See how heavy network traffic is in a given amplifier cascade

•Level measurements allow you to align both TDMA and continuous digital channels

Align return path amps more quickly and with fewer errors

•Adjust return path amplifier tilt and gain

•Display injection levels and absolute headend signal levels

•Calculate system gain and tilt automatically

•Reliably measure reverse sweep and level with an improved test point compensation setup

•Compensate for test point loss in complex two-way amps using improved, informative displays

The SDA-5000 field meter also offers interoperability with Acterna’s PathTrak Performance Monitoring System. Interoperability is an exciting feature that enables you to solve return path ingress problems more effectively. Node spectrum data received at the PathTrak System can be broadcast to the field unit, allowing you to compare local (field) spectrum

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The SDA Family: Headend Units (SDA-5500 and SDA-5510)
measurements with remote (PathTrak System/headend) spectrum
measurements.
New Features and Benefits of the SDA-5000	1

•Faster forward sweep with all signals, including 64/256 QAM carriers

•QAM digital analysis (OPT4)

•Improved interoperation with StealthWare

•CW loopback

•Sweep loopback

•Efficient, practical, graphical test point compensation configuration

HEADEND UNITS (SDA-5500 AND SDA-5510)

SDA-5500 Stealth Sweep Transceiver

The SDA-5500 is a standard 19" rack mount unit weighing approximately fifteen pounds. Its 320 X 240 dot matrix LCD shows measurement data in both graphical and numerical form. It is a full-featured signal analysis meter with a complete spectrum display and an analog representation of single channel measurement data. When tuned to a specific channel, a comprehensive set of information is provided, including:

•tuned channel

•video frequency and level

•audio frequency and level

•differences between video and audio carrier levels

The SDA-5500 performs essential cable TV system preventive maintenance tests with accuracy and ease. Signal levels, hum, C/N, and, in tandem with the SDA-5000, frequency response, can be quickly tested without interfering with subscribers’ service.

The Sweep System is made up of two components: the field unit (SDA5000), and one or both of the headend units (SDA-5500 and SDA-5510). Sweep response is tested by injecting a low-level signal in vacant spectrum areas and by monitoring cable system carrier levels in occupied spectrum

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The SDA Family: Headend Units (SDA-5500 and SDA-5510)

areas. In addition to generating the sweep test signal, the SDA-5500 continuously monitors the system carriers. It sends headend level readings to the field receiver with every sweep update. In this way, any headend level

1 changes are compensated for by the receiver, maintaining measurement accuracy.

Sweep response measurements won’t be affected by changing signal levels in the headend. The SDA-5500 has the measurement capability of the SDA5000 so you can keep an eye on headend levels.

With the Reverse Sweep option (OPT2), a transmitter is built into the handheld sweep receiver. The headend sweep transmitter (SDA-5500) is set up to receive the reverse sweep sent from the field. When a reverse sweep is activated from a field test point, the headend transmitter receives the telemetry signal indicating which receiver is sending the sweep. The headend transmitter measures the sweep and sends the results to the field via its telemetry signal. The field receiver with the tagged serial number then displays the sweep response as measured in the headend.

New Features and Benefits of the SDA-5500

•Faster forward sweep with all signals, including 64/256 QAM carriers

•New Navigator user interface

SDA-5510 Stealth Reverse Sweep Manager

The SDA-5510 is a standard 19" rack mount unit weighing approximately fifteen pounds. Its 320 X 240 dot matrix LCD shows measurement data in both graphical and numerical form. It is a full-featured signal analysis meter, with a complete spectrum display and an analog representation of single channel measurement data. When it’s tuned to a specific channel, comprehensive information is provided:

•tuned channel

•video frequency and level

•audio frequency and level

•differences between video and audio carrier levels.

The SDA-5510 handles the reverse sweep job for up to 10 technicians.

By adding the SDA-5510 to the Sweep System, you take responsibility for single-user reverse sweep away from the SDA-5500. This speeds the reverse sweep rate and increases the forward sweep speed. In addition, the SDA-5510 sends out reverse ingress/noise information with every update of

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