EXFO FTB-500 User Manual
FTB-500
User Guide
Copyright © 2009–2014 EXFO Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted
in any form, be it electronically, mechanically, or by any other means such
as photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of EXFO Inc. (EXFO).
Information provided by EXFO is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed by EXFO for its use nor for any
infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from
its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent
rights of EXFO.
EXFO’s Commerce And Government Entities (CAGE) code under the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is 0L8C3.
The information contained in this publication is subject to change without
notice.
Trademarks
EXFO’s trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence
or absence of such identification does not affect the legal status of any
trademark.
Units of Measurement
Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and
practices.
Version number: 8.0.1.1
ii FTB-500
Contents
Certification Information ..................................................................................................... viii
1 Introducing the FTB-500 .............................................................................. 1
Main Features .........................................................................................................................2
LED Indicators Description ......................................................................................................8
Function Buttons Description ................................................................................................11
Power Sources ......................................................................................................................12
Automatic Fan Speed Management ......................................................................................13
Conventions ..........................................................................................................................14
2 Safety Information ..................................................................................... 15
Other Safety Symbols on Your Unit .......................................................................................16
Laser Safety Information .......................................................................................................17
Electrical Safety Information .................................................................................................18
3 Getting Started with Your Unit ................................................................. 23
Grounding Your Unit ............................................................................................................23
Positioning Your Unit ............................................................................................................25
Inserting and Removing Test Modules .................................................................................26
Turning On Your Unit ............................................................................................................32
Turning Off Your Unit .........................................................................................................32
Configuring Your Unit At First Startup ..................................................................................38
Accessing and Exiting ToolBox ..............................................................................................40
Starting Module Applications ...............................................................................................41
Using the On-Screen (Virtual) Keyboard ................................................................................42
Working with Windows 8.1 Pro ............................................................................................42
Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen .....................................................................................44
Installing or Upgrading the Applications ..............................................................................45
Installing EXFO LabVIEW Drivers ...........................................................................................48
Activating Software Options .................................................................................................51
Installing Third-Party Software on Your Unit .........................................................................56
Protecting your Unit with an Antivirus Software ...................................................................56
Securing your Unit Using the Kensington Lock .....................................................................57
Using a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices ...................................................................58
Configuring an External Monitor ..........................................................................................60
FTB-500 iii
4 Setting Up Your FTB-500 .............................................................................63
Adjusting Brightness .............................................................................................................63
Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume .........................................................................64
Recalibrating the Touchscreen ..............................................................................................69
Customizing the Right-Click Feature .....................................................................................73
Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Logon .........................................................................77
Selecting the Startup Applications ........................................................................................81
Configuring Network Printers ...............................................................................................83
Selecting the Language of Operation ...................................................................................85
Setting Date and Time Formats .............................................................................................94
Adjusting the Date, Time and Time Zone ..............................................................................96
Configuring the Power Management Options ......................................................................97
Setting ToolBox Behavior ....................................................................................................107
Configuring the Internet Options .......................................................................................109
Configuring Parameters via Windows Mobility Center ........................................................111
Setting Communication Parameters ...................................................................................112
Setting Other Parameters ....................................................................................................112
5 Working with Your Unit ............................................................................113
Printing Documents ............................................................................................................113
Viewing PDF Files ................................................................................................................114
Taking Screen Captures ......................................................................................................115
Browsing the Web ..............................................................................................................117
Accessing the Internet with a 3G USB Modem Key .............................................................118
Retrieving the GPS Location of Your Unit ............................................................................122
Managing Favorites ............................................................................................................124
Using the Calculator ...........................................................................................................132
Using the Text Editor ...........................................................................................................132
Accessing Other Tools .........................................................................................................133
6 Using the Optional Built-In Power Meter and VFL ..................................135
7 Inspecting Fibers with a Probe ................................................................137
8 Managing Data .........................................................................................141
Viewing Disk Space and Managing Files .............................................................................142
Transferring Data via Bluetooth ..........................................................................................143
Connecting to a Wireless Network ......................................................................................150
Using the USB to RS-232 Adapter .......................................................................................152
Freeing Up Disk Space with the Disk Cleanup Utility ...........................................................158
Connecting to a VPN from Your Unit ..................................................................................162
Using Your Unit as an FTP Server ........................................................................................168
iv FTB-500
9 Accessing Your Unit Remotely ................................................................. 171
Working with Remote Desktop ...........................................................................................172
Working With TightVNC .....................................................................................................182
Adding Exceptions to the Firewall ......................................................................................188
10 Preparing for Automation ....................................................................... 193
Linking Units with the Ethernet Port ...................................................................................195
Linking Units with the Serial Port ........................................................................................196
Getting Optimum Performance from Your Unit ..................................................................197
Changing Communication Settings ....................................................................................199
Configuring DCOM Access to Your Unit ..............................................................................203
Preparing to Control Modules with a Dedicated Application ..............................................227
11 Using FTB Products in an Automated Test Environment ....................... 231
Standard Status Data Structure ..........................................................................................232
SCPI Command Structure ....................................................................................................236
Consulting Data Types ........................................................................................................239
Writing Remote Control Code .............................................................................................240
Error Message Format .........................................................................................................242
Working with EXFO COM Objects .......................................................................................243
Working with EXFO LabVIEW Drivers ..................................................................................244
Using the EXFO Getting Started Applications .....................................................................246
Building and Using Custom VIs ...........................................................................................251
Monitoring Remote Commands ..........................................................................................258
12 Maintenance ............................................................................................. 263
Cleaning Detector Ports ......................................................................................................264
Cleaning VFL-Type Connectors ............................................................................................265
Cleaning the Touchscreen ...................................................................................................266
Recharging the Batteries .....................................................................................................267
Replacing Batteries .............................................................................................................270
Viewing Battery Status ........................................................................................................276
Recalibrating the Batteries ..................................................................................................278
Installing or Removing the Power Meter and VFL ...............................................................280
Managing Windows Updates .............................................................................................287
Replacing Fuses (Eight-Slot Model Only) .............................................................................289
Recalibrating the Unit .........................................................................................................290
Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ..................................................291
FTB-500 v
13 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................293
Solving Common Problems .................................................................................................293
Restoring Your Unit to Normal Operation ...........................................................................299
Accessing the Online Documentation .................................................................................314
Contacting the Technical Support Group ............................................................................315
Viewing System Information ...............................................................................................316
Retrieving Network Interfaces Information .........................................................................319
Transportation ....................................................................................................................322
14 Warranty ....................................................................................................323
General Information ...........................................................................................................323
Liability ...............................................................................................................................324
Exclusions ...........................................................................................................................324
Certification ........................................................................................................................324
Service and Repairs .............................................................................................................325
EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ........................................................................................326
A Technical Specifications ............................................................................327
B Data Types .................................................................................................329
Applicable Data Types for Input—IEEE 488.2 ......................................................................330
Applicable Data Types for Output —IEEE 488.2 ..................................................................339
Applicable Data Types for Input—SCPI ................................................................................349
Special Numeric Values Received on Output .......................................................................350
C IEEE 488.2 and Specific Command Reference .........................................351
IEEE 488.2 Commands–Quick Reference .............................................................................351
IEEE 488.2 Required Commands .........................................................................................352
Specific Commands—Quick Reference ................................................................................372
Specific Commands ............................................................................................................373
D SCPI-Based Errors ......................................................................................391
E COM Properties and Events ......................................................................407
ActiveX (COM/DCOM)—Quick Reference ............................................................................408
Properties ...........................................................................................................................409
Events .................................................................................................................................416
vi FTB-500
F Communicating Through TCP/IP over Telnet .......................................... 417
Introducing TCP/IP over Telnet ............................................................................................417
Features ..............................................................................................................................418
Activating TCP/IP over Telnet ...............................................................................................419
Executing SCPI Commands Over Telnet ...............................................................................420
Releasing Modules ..............................................................................................................426
Internal Commands of the TCP/IP over Telnet Protocol .......................................................427
FTB-500 vii
Certification Information
Certification Information
North America Regulatory Statement
This unit was certified by an agency approved in both Canada and the
United States of America. It has been evaluated according to applicable
North American approved standards for product safety for use in Canada
and the United States.
Electronic test and measurement equipment is exempt from FCC part 15,
subpart B compliance in the United States of America and from ICES-003
compliance in Canada. However, EXFO Inc. makes reasonable efforts to
ensure compliance to the applicable standards.
The limits set by these standards are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in
a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the user guide, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely
to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at his own expense.
Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.
European Community Declaration of Conformity
An electronic version of the declaration of conformity for your product is
available on our website at www.exfo.com. Refer to the product’s page on
the Web site for details.
viii FTB-500
1 Introducing the FTB-500
Today’s network technology is more complex than ever. Thousands of
components have to work in harmony and deployment specialists are
responsible for tuning entire systems for optimal network performance and
for ensuring records updates. In addition, fiber counts are skyrocketing.
DWDM is well entrenched in long-haul applications and is moving into
metro. You know that you need more efficiency.
You will find it with the FTB-500. Benefit from advanced test operations in
outside plant installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The FTB-500
streamlines field-based test and measurement operations into a single,
powerful, revolutionary package. Welcome to multi-tasking in the field.
FTB-500 1
Function buttons
Speaker
Stylus
Power button
LCD/Touchscreen
Module-related LED panel
Unit-related
LED panel
USB ports (2)
Front
Introducing the FTB-500
Main Features
Main Features
2 FTB-500
USB ports (2)
Fiber inspection probe connector
Back supports
Right side
(four-slot model)
Module slots
Serial port (male DB-9)
Audio in port
(for any commercially available
microphone and having a 3.5 mm
connector)
Audio out port
(for any commercially available speaker
or headset, and having a 3.5 mm
connector)
Power meter (optional)
VFL port (optional);
laser radiation emitted at this port
when VFL is active
Introducing the FTB-500
Main Features
FTB-500 3
Introducing the FTB-500
Back support
Right side
(eight-slot model)
Module slots
Bottom support
Front module lock
USB ports (2)
Serial port (male DB-9)
Fiber inspection probe connector
Audio in port
(for any commercially available
microphone and having a 3.5 mm
connector)
Audio out port
(for any commercially available speaker
or headset, and having a 3.5 mm
connector)
Power meter (optional)
VFL port (optional);
laser radiation emitted at this port
when VFL is active
Main Features
4 FTB-500
Back supports
DC input connector
(for AC adapter/charger)
Ethernet (RJ-45) port
Video out port (for any
commercially available
monitor supporting a
minimum resolution of
1024 x 768 (Extend
displays setting))
Module retaining screws
Left side
(Four-slot model)
ExpressCard slot (for Wi-Fi
or memory cards having a
34-mm format)
Telecom grounding
terminal
Cable strain relief
Introducing the FTB-500
Main Features
FTB-500 5
Introducing the FTB-500
Back support
AC connector
Bottom support
Ethernet (RJ-45) port
Video out port (for any
commercially available
monitor supporting a
minimum resolution of
1024 x 768 (Extend displays
settings))
Module retaining screws
Left side
(Eight-slot model)
ExpressCard slot (for any
commercially available Wi-Fi
or memory cards having a
34-mm format)
Cable strain relief
Telecom grounding terminal
Main Features
6 FTB-500
Introducing the FTB-500
Main Features
The FTB-500 runs Microsoft Windows 8.1 Pro, and the ToolBox software
provides you with a graphical, user-friendly interface for your testing
applications.
The interface is easy to access, whether you are using the touchscreen or a
mouse and a keyboard.
ToolBox brings multitasking to field testing. You can perform different tests
and work on tests results all at the same time, switching between
applications easily.
The FTB-500 supports local control (via the ToolBox software) and remote
control (through RS-232 or Ethernet TCP/IP—using SCPI commands or the
provided LabVIEW drivers).
Note: LabVIEW drivers may not be available for some modules.
Note: In this documentation, the words “tap” and “double-tap” (related to the
use of a touchscreen) replace the words “click” and “double-click”.
FTB-500 7
Introducing the FTB-500
LED Indicators Description
LED Indicators Description
The LED panel on the front of the unit provides you with the status of the
FTB-500.
LED Status Meaning
Green Unit is on.
(when unit is
connected to an
external power
source)
Green, blinking Unit is in Sleep mode.
Off Unit is off or in Hibernation mode.
Green All batteries are fully charged.
Green, blinking At least one battery is charging.
Yellow, blinking No battery present in the unit.
OR
The unit and its modules would be
using more power than what is
available from batteries. Do not
disconnect AC power while this
module is in use.
A blinking yellow LED takes
precedence over a blinking green one,
so when AC power is connected, even
if the LED is blinking yellow, batteries
are probably charging (depending on
conditions).
8 FTB-500
LED Status Meaning
Off The global level of the batteries is
above the “low-battery threshold”.
Yellow The global level of batteries is low.
(when unit is not
connected to an
external power
source)
Yellow, blinking The unit and its modules would be
using more power than what is
available from batteries. Connect AC
power as soon as possible.
Red Battery error. Contact EXFO.
Lit Hard disk read or write operations
Red, blinking Laser status LED.
At least one module emits an optical
signal.
Off No modules emit signal.
Introducing the FTB-500
LED Indicators Description
Va r i ed
Each application using the alarm
LED provides its alarm level to the
platform when needed
(Red/Yellow/Green/OFF).
If more than one application uses
the alarm LED, the LED is displayed
using the color of the most severe
alarm with red as the most severe,
followed by yellow and finally
green.
If more than one application uses
the alarm LED, the LED is blinking.
FTB-500 9
Introducing the FTB-500
LED Indicators Description
LED Status Meaning
Green Result status from application currently
displayed.
Pass (result does not exceed the
defined threshold).
Green, blinking Result statuses from two or more
applications.
Pass (no results exceed the defined
threshold).
Red Result status from application currently
displayed.
Fail (result exceeds the defined
threshold).
Red, blinking Result statuses from two or more
applications.
Fail (all results exceed the defined
threshold).
OR
Mixed statuses (some are Pass and
some are Fail).
Green Unit is controlled remotely.
10 FTB-500
Introducing the FTB-500
Function Buttons Description
Function Buttons Description
The FTB-500 is equipped with function buttons that give you access to
features at all times.
The table below shows an overview of their purpose.
Button Purpose
To show the taskbar, from which you can switch among
running applications, select a keyboard, view battery
information, view the time and date, etc.
To set the display brightness level. For more information,
see Adjusting Brightness on page 63.
LOCAL
When you are working in remote control mode, to return
to local control and settings.
FTB-500 11
Introducing the FTB-500
Pow er So urces
Power Sources
Your unit operates with the following power sources:
Indoor use only: AC adapter/charger (four-slot model) or standard
three-wire power cord (eight-slot model) connected to standard
power outlet.
When it is connected to an external power source, the unit will
function even if the batteries are not present.
Indoor and outdoor use: Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries
(automatically take over if you disconnect the unit from its external
power source). The number of batteries that power your unit and that
come with it depends on the model that you have purchased. There
are two batteries for the four-slot model, and three batteries for the
eight-slot model.
Possible to switch from an external power source to battery power
or vice versa without affecting operation.
The battery recharges automatically when the unit is connected to
an external power source (with the AC adapter/charger or the
three-wire power cord).
For more information, see Electrical Safety Information on page 18.
12 FTB-500
Introducing the FTB-500
Automatic Fan Speed Management
Automatic Fan Speed Management
The FTB-500 will determine the most appropriate fan speed, depending on
the power requirements and the type of modules you are using.
IMPORTANT
Fan speed is always determined to cool down the most
heat-generating modules.
If the temperature keeps rising and reaches the limit: your FTB-500 will
turn off to protect both the modules and the platform itself.
CAUTION
Make sure to use protective covers over empty slots in your
four-slot model to avoid overheating.
FTB-500 13
Introducing the FTB-500
Conventions
Conventions
Before using the product described in this guide, you should understand
the following conventions:
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in component damage. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION
IMPORTANT
Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.
14 FTB-500
2 Safety Information
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active.
Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are
protected at all times.
WARNING
The use of controls, adjustments and procedures, namely for
operation and maintenance, other than those specified herein may
result in hazardous radiation exposure or impair the protection
provided by this unit.
IMPORTANT
When you see the following symbol on your unit , make sure
that you refer to the instructions provided in your user
documentation. Ensure that you understand and meet the required
conditions before using your product.
IMPORTANT
Other safety instructions relevant for your product are located
throughout this documentation, depending on the action to
perform. Make sure to read them carefully when they apply to your
situation.
CAUTION
When the laser safety light is flashing, at least one module is
emitting an optical signal. Please check all modules, as it might not
be the one you are currently using.
FTB-500 15
Safety Information
Other Safety Symbols on Your Unit
Other Safety Symbols on Your Unit
One or more of the following symbols may also appear on your unit.
Symbol Meaning
Direct current
Alternating current
The unit is equipped with an earth (ground) terminal.
The unit is equipped with a protective conductor terminal.
The unit is equipped with a frame or chassis terminal.
On (Power)
Off (Power)
On/Off (Power)
Fuse
16 FTB-500
Safety Information
Affixed to back panel of unit.
Laser Safety Information
Laser Safety Information
Units with Built-In VFL
Your instrument is a Class 3R laser product in compliance with standards
IEC 60825-1: 2007 and 21 CFR 1040.10, except for deviations pursuant to
Laser Notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007. Laser radiation is emitted at the
output port. It is potentially harmful in direct intrabeam viewing.
The following label(s) indicate that the product contains a Class 3R source:
The modules that you use with your unit may have different laser classes.
Refer to the user guide or the online help of the different modules for the
exact information.
Units without Built-In VFL
If your unit is not equipped with a VFL, the laser class of your unit depends
on the modules that you use. Refer to the user guide or the online help of
the different modules for the exact information.
FTB-500 17
Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
The four-slot model uses an external AC/DC adapter connected to an
international safety standard three-wire power cable.
The eight-slot model uses an international safety standard three-wire
power cable. This cable serves as a ground when connected to an
appropriate AC power outlet.
Note: If you need to ensure that the unit is completely turned off, disconnect the
power cable and remove the batteries.
WARNING
Insert the power cable plug into a power outlet with a
protective ground contact. Do not use an extension cord
without a protective conductor.
Before turning on the unit, connect all grounding terminals and
extension cords to a protective ground via a ground socket. Any
interruption of the protective grounding is a potential shock
hazard and may cause personal injury. Whenever the ground
protection is impaired, do not use the unit and secure it against
any accidental operation.
Do not tamper with the protective ground terminal.
18 FTB-500
Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
The color coding used in the electric cable depends on the cable. New
plugs should meet the local safety requirements and include:
adequate load-carrying capacity
ground connection
cable clamp
WARNING
Never connect the unit to the AC mains (with the
adapter/charger, or directly with a power cord) when it is used
outdoors.
Position the unit so that the air can circulate freely around it.
Operation of any electrical instrument around flammable gases
or fumes constitutes a major safety hazard.
To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the unit if any part of
the outer surface (covers, panels, etc.) is damaged.
Only authorized personnel should carry out adjustments,
maintenance or repair of opened units under voltage. A person
qualified in first aid must also be present. Do not replace any
components while the power cable and batteries are connected.
(Eight-slot model only) Use only fuses with the required rated
current and specified type (F6.3A L, 5 mm x 20 mm (0.197 in x
0.787 in), fast-acting, low-breaking capacity, 250 V). Do not use
repaired fuses or short-circuited fuse holders.
Unless otherwise specified, all interfaces are intended for
connection to Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) circuits only.
Capacitors inside the unit may be charged even if the unit has
been disconnected from its electrical supply.
FTB-500 19
Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
WARNING
Use only the listed and certified AC adapter/charger provided by
EXFO with your unit (four-slot model). It provides reinforced
insulation between primary and secondary, and is suitably rated
for the country where the unit is sold.
Use only accessories (such as the batteries, and fiber inspection
probe) designed for your unit and approved by EXFO. For a
complete list of accessories available for your unit, refer to its
technical specifications.
When you use the unit outdoors, ensure that it is protected
from liquids, dust, direct sunlight, precipitation, and full wind
pressure.
Equipment Ratings
Tem pe rat ur e
Operation unit powered by batteries: 0 °C to 50 °C
122 °F)
(total max. of 50 W for modules in four-slot model)
(total max. of 85 W for modules in eight-slot model)
unit connected to AC power:
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)
(total max. of 100 W for modules
in four-slot model)
a
(32 °F to
0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F)
(total max. of 200 W for modules
in eight-slot model)
Storage unit: –40 °C to 70 °C (–40 °F to 158 °F)
Relative humidity
20 FTB-500
b
unit: 95 % non-condensing
AC adapter: 10 % to 80 % non-condensing
Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
Equipment Ratings
Maximum operation altitude 2000 m (6562 ft) (unit connected to external power
supply)
5000 m (16405 ft) (unit operated from batteries)
Pollution degree
2 (unit connected to external power supply)
3 (unit operated from batteries)
c
Overvoltage category unit: I
AC adapter: II
Measurement category Not rated for measurement categories II, III, or IV
Input power
d
unit (four slots): 24 V; 8 A
AC adapter (four slots):
100 - 240 V; 50/60 Hz; 4.8 A
unit (eight slots): 100 - 240 V; 50/60 Hz; 4.8 A
a. With some modules, the maximum operation temperature is 40 °C (104 °F).
b. Measured in 0 °C to 31 °C (32 °F to 87.8 °F) range, decreasing linearly to 50 % at 40 °C (104 °F).
c. Equipment must be normally protected against exposure to direct sunlight, precipitation and full wind
pressure.
d. Not exceeding ± 10 % of the nominal voltage.
CAUTION
The use of voltages higher than those indicated on the label affixed
to your unit may damage the unit.
IMPORTANT
The operation and storage temperatures of some modules may
differ from the temperatures specified for your platform. In this
case, always ensure that you comply with the most restrictive
conditions (either module or platform).
FTB-500 21
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