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

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

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

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.

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).

 Mixed statuses (some are Pass and

some are Fail).

Green Unit is controlled remotely.

10 FTB-500

Introducing the FTB-500

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

(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

 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)

Overvoltage category  unit: I

 AC adapter: II

Measurement category Not rated for measurement categories II, III, or IV

Input power

 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

3 Getting Started with Your Unit

Grounding Your Unit

When you perform outside plant tests with certain modules, you may want to ground your unit because it can be exposed to overvoltages from the telecommunication network. Refer to the user documentation that comes with your modules to know if you need to ground your unit.

WARNING

 Not grounding your unit when it is recommended may cause

serious injuries to communication network staff or other users.

 Ensure to ground the unit using a grounding method that

complies with your local regulations. If you are not sure on how to proceed, consult a certified electrician.

Note: To ground your unit, you need a grounding wire (18 AWG minimum) with a

U-shaped terminal.

FTB-500 23

Getting Started with Your Unit

Eight-slot modelFour-slot model

Grounding Your Unit

To ground your unit:

1. Position the unit so that you can see its left panel.

2. Place the U-shaped terminal under the grounding stud’s screw head.

3. Turn the grounding stud clockwise to screw it tight.

4. Ground the other end of the wire as per your local regulation.

Your unit is now grounded properly.

24 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Four-slot model

There are two sets of stands on the

back of the unit with different

lengths. Select the one that provides

you with the best angle.

Back

support

Bottom support

Eight-slot model

Positioning Your Unit

You can change the orientation of your unit with the bottom or back supports.

To position the unit using the supports:

Pull out the support pair that will provide you with the best viewing angle according to your situation.

IMPORTANT

The supports should always be used in order to ensure that the unit is stable during your tests and will not fall down to cause damage to the test components or injure you.

FTB-500 25

Getting Started with Your Unit

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

Never insert or remove a module while the FTB-500 is turned on. This will result in immediate and irreparable damage to both the module and unit.

To avoid damaging your unit, use it only with modules approved by EXFO.

When the laser safety LED ( ) is flashing on the FTB-500, at least one of your modules is emitting an optical signal. Please check all modules, as it might not be the one you are currently using.

CAUTION

WARNING

To insert a module into the FTB-500:

1. Exit ToolBox and turn off your unit (shut down, not hibernate or sleep).

2. Position the FTB-500 so that its right panel is facing you.

3. Take the module and place it so that the connector pins are at the

back, as explained and shown below.

CAUTION

Inserting a module upside down could result in permanent damage to the module, as the connector pins might be bent.

26 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Protruding edges on right side

Identification sticker

on left side

Connector pins at the back

Retaining

screw hole

at the back

FTB-500 right panel

Protruding edges on bottom

Identification sticker

facing up

Connector pins at the back

Retaining screw

hole at the

back

FTB-500 right panel

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

 (4-slot model) identification sticker must be on left side and

retaining screw hole under connector pins.

 (eight-slot model) identification sticker must be facing up and

connector pins at the right of the retaining screw hole.

FTB-500 27

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turn retaining screw knob

clockwise

FTB-500 left panel

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

Note: If you are using larger or heavier modules, place them near the bottom of

the unit as much as possible.

4. Insert the protruding edges of the module into the grooves of the receptacle’s module slot.

5. Push the module all the way to the back of the slot, until the retaining screw makes contact with the receptacle casing.

6. Place the unit so that its left panel is facing you.

7. While applying slight pressure to the module, turn the retaining screw

clockwise until it is tightened.

This will secure the module into its “seated” position.

28 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

8. If you are using a larger or heavier module, use a front module lock to hold them securely in place. Simply place the retaining part against the module, then screw in the holding pin.

When you turn on the unit, the startup sequence will automatically detect the module.

FTB-500 29

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turn retaining screw knob(s)

counterclockwise

FTB-500 left panel

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

To remove a module from the FTB-500:

1. Exit ToolBox and turn off your unit (shut down, not hibernate or sleep).

2. Position the unit so that the left panel is facing you.

3. Turn the retaining screw counterclockwise until it stops.

The module will be slowly released from the slot.

4. Place the unit so that the right panel is facing you.

30 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

5. Hold the module by its sides or by the handle (NOT by the connector) and pull it out.

6. Cover empty slots with the supplied protective covers.

CAUTION

Failure to reinstall protective covers over empty slots will result in ventilation problems.

FTB-500 31

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turning On Your Unit

When you turn on the unit for the very first time, a wizard for license agreements and safety instructions is displayed (see the corresponding section for more information).

Once you have accepted all the license agreements and confirmed the reading of safety instructions, the main window is displayed.

To turn on the unit:

Press the On/Off button. The unit will beep once.

Turning Off Your Unit

There are several ways to turn off the unit, including the following:

 Sleep: keeps the unit’s status information in memory (RAM). The next

time you turn your unit on, you will quickly return to your work environment (running applications will still be running).This mode will take more battery power while the unit is off.

 Hibernation: saves the unit’s status information that was in memory

(RAM) to a special file on the disk. The next time you turn your unit on, this file will be used to ensure that you return to your work environment (running applications will still be running). The unit will take longer to start up than in Sleep mode, but it requires less battery power when the unit is off.

 Shutdown: the unit will perform a complete restart routine the next

time you use it. You should perform a shutdown if you do not intend to use your unit for a week or more.

After a shutdown, the unit will start in Toolbox or in the application you defined as the startup application.

Note: Should the unit ever stop responding, you can force a hardware reset by

pressing and holding down the power button for more than 10 seconds.

32 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turning Off Your Unit

By default, your unit will shut down when you press the power button. However, you can configure your unit to perform a different action when the power button is pressed.

You can also configure your unit to automatically restart when AC power comes back after the unit has turned off (power outage, emergency shutdown, sleep, or hibernation modes) when battery level is too low.

To exit the sleep mode (or hibernation mode) and resume your work:

Press the On/Off button.

To turn off the unit completely from the unit itself:

Press and hold the On/Off button a few seconds until the unit beeps once.

To turn off the unit completely from Windows:

1. If necessary, from the front panel of the unit, press the button to

show the taskbar.

2. From the lower left corner of the screen, tap the Start button ( ).

3. On the upper right corner of the screen, tap .

4. Ta p Shut down.

FTB-500 33

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turning Off Your Unit

To define the behavior of the power button:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Control Panel.

3. Ta p Hardware and Sound.

34 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turning Off Your Unit

4. Under Power Options, tap Change what the power buttons do.

5. Ta p Changes settings that are currently unavailable.

FTB-500 35

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turning Off Your Unit

6. From the When I press the power button lists, select the desired behavior when the unit is powered by batteries, or by AC current (Shut down option is selected by default in both cases).

7. Ta p Save changes to confirm the changes and return to the Power Options window.

36 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Turning Off Your Unit

To configure your unit to automatically restart after AC power comes back:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Too l B ox Set u p .

3. Select the Power on the unit when AC outlet is connected or after

power outage box to enable the corresponding option.

Clear the box if you prefer that your unit does not restart automatically after AC power comes back.

4. Ta p OK to confirm the changes and return to the System Settings window.

FTB-500 37

Getting Started with Your Unit

Configuring Your Unit At First Startup

The first time you turn on the unit, a Windows configuration wizard is displayed, enabling you to set all the regional and language settings such as the country and operation language.

The operation language that you select at the first startup (labelled “App language”) becomes the default system language, that is the language that will be available at logon.

During the configuration process, you will also be asked to read and accept the Microsoft end-user license agreement (EULA).

Once the configuration is complete in Windows, an EXFO wizard will be displayed, allowing you to read the user documentation for important safety information, and to read and accept the EULA related to your unit and instruments.

IMPORTANT

Note: To be able to work with the unit, you must accept all the EULA (from

Microsoft and EXFO), and confirm that you have read the security information.

To configure your unit at first startup:

1. If it is not already done, turn on the unit (see Turning Off Your Unit on

page 32).

2. When the Windows wizard is displayed, set the parameters according to your needs.

3. Read and accept the Microsoft EULA. The configuration of Windows parameters may take several minutes.

38 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Configuring Your Unit At First Startup

4. When the EXFO wizard is displayed, follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Ta p Finish to close the wizard and start working.

FTB-500 39

Getting Started with Your Unit

Accessing and Exiting ToolBox

By default, ToolBox is displayed automatically when you turn on the unit.

However, you can configure your unit to send ToolBox to the notification area (see Setting ToolBox Behavior on page 107). This could be useful, for example, if you prefer to start working in Windows. You can also configure your unit to start any of the available applications as soon as ToolBox is started (see Selecting the Startup Applications on page 81).

To a cc e ss Too l Bo x f r om the Windows environment:

Tap the icon on your desktop.

Note: If ToolBox has been sent to the notification area, from this location,

right-click the icon, and then select Restore ToolBox.

To e xi t Too lB o x:

Tap .

40 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Inserted module

Applications specific to the module

Starting Module Applications

Your modules can be configured and controlled from their dedicated applications in Toolbox.

To start a module application:

1. If necessary, tap the Modules button to display the modules window.

Note: The slot numbers are 0-3 for the four-slot model and 0-7 for the eight-slot

model. The slots are identified on both sides of the unit.

2. On the row corresponding to the desired module, tap the icon of the application with which you want to work.

FTB-500 41

Getting Started with Your Unit

Using the On-Screen (Virtual) Keyboard

Whenever you need to enter alphanumeric data, you can use the on-screen keyboard. This keyboard supports multilingual features, and functions according to the keyboard settings set in Windows.

To use the on-screen keyboard:

1. Select the location where you want to enter text.

2. From the taskbar, tap the on-screen keyboard icon (located to the left

of the clock).

3. Enter the data as required.

4. Close the keyboard when you are done entering data.

Working with Windows 8.1 Pro

If you are not familiar with Windows 8.1 Pro, you may want to visit Microsoft Web site for tutorials as well as detailed information on the features and concepts brought by this operating system.

One of the new features is the use of touchscreen gestures to perform certain tasks. In this documentation, all the necessary gestures are explained throughout the procedures.

Note: For an optimal accuracy with the touchscreen, use the stylus provided with

your unit.

Note: To show the taskbar, press the button from the front panel of the unit.

42 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Working with Windows 8.1 Pro

Here is an overview of the gestures that you may use the most with your unit.

 Tap and double-tap: Equivalent of a click and double-click with a

mouse.

 Swipe right: To return to the last used application.

From the left edge of the screen, swipe towards the right.

 Swipe left: To display the Charm bar, which is a special toolbar that

gives you access to many tools and settings. From the right edge of the screen, swipe towards the left.

FTB-500 43

Getting Started with Your Unit

Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen

If you are used to work with a mouse, you may find it useful to be able to perform a right-click on your touchscreen.

This feature is enabled by default, but you can disable it if you prefer. You can also modify the right-click behavior. For more information, see Customizing the Right-Click Feature on page 73.

To right-click with the touchscreen:

From the location where you want to right-click, using the stylus or any blunt pointing device, press the screen for a few seconds until the shortcut menu appears.

If you want to hide the shortcut menu without performing any action, simply tap anywhere outside the menu.

44 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

All the necessary applications have been preinstalled and configured at the factory. However, you may have to upgrade some applications when new versions become available or to reinstall them.

Note: Only administrator-level users can install software under Windows.

Each time you purchase a new module, it could be a good idea to verify that the most recent Update Manager application is installed on your unit.

When updates are available for an application, you will need to download them from Internet, either directly on your unit or on a computer. The update files must be copied to the location that has been specified for the deployment packages in Update Manager.

For the installation or upgrade, you will need:

 your unit

 a computer equipped with a USB port; Windows must be installed on

the computer

 a USB memory key

Note: The computer and USB key are only necessary if you do not wish to

download the files directly on your unit.

Note: For more information on the installation, refer to the Update Manager

online help.

FTB-500 45

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

To update or reinstall Update Manager:

1. If necessary, retrieve the desired installation files from the Internet.

If you do not intend to download files directly on your unit, connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of the computer and copy the installation files to this USB key.

2. If it is not already done, turn on your unit.

3. Exit Toolbox and the modules’ applications.

4. If you want to install Update Manager using the USB key, disconnect it

from the computer and connect it to one of the USB ports of your unit.

5. On your unit, create a folder on the Windows desktop.

6. Copy the installation files (from the USB key) to the newly created

folder.

7. From the newly created folder, tap the Setup.exe file to start the installation.

8. Follow the on-screen instructions.

9. When the installation is complete, simply disconnect the USB memory

key.

46 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

To install or upgrade the applications:

1. If necessary, retrieve the desired installation files from the Internet.

If you do not intend to download files directly on your unit, connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of the computer and copy the installation files to this USB key.

2. If it is not already done, turn on your unit.

3. Exit Toolbox and the modules’ applications.

4. If you want to install or update applications using the USB key,

disconnect it from the computer and connect it to one of the USB ports of your unit.

5. Copy the installation files (from the USB key) to the folder containing the update and installation packages on your unit. By default, Update Manager will search for files in the default folder, which is C:\Users\Public\Documents\SoftwareUpdate. For more information, refer to the Update Manager online help.

6. On your unit, from Windows desktop, tap the Update Manager icon to start the corresponding application. For more information on how to install or upgrade applications, refer to the Update Manager online help.

7. When the installation is complete, simply disconnect the USB memory key.

FTB-500 47

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing EXFO LabVIEW Drivers

Before being able to work with EXFO LabVIEW drivers, you must install the following elements on your computer or on your FTB-500:

 National Instruments LabVIEW software and the corresponding

patches.

 EXFO LabVIEW drivers (including demo applications to help you get

started with the drivers).

You can find the LabVIEW drivers on the DVD that came with your unit, on the EXFO Web site at www.exfo.com, or on the National Instrument Web Site at www.ni.com.

For more information, see Working with EXFO LabVIEW Drivers on page 244.

Note: Only administrator-level users can install software under Windows.

Note: You cannot install LabVIEW software or drivers on your unit directly from a

CD. You must use a computer to transfer the required files to a USB key first.

To install the LabVIEW software:

1. If you intend to install the LabVIEW software on your unit, transfer the

required files from the LabVIEW CD to a USB key using a computer. If the CD also contains patches, retrieve them on the USB key as well.

2. From your computer, insert the LabVIEW CD in the CD-ROM drive.

From your unit, connect the USB key containing the required files.

48 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing EXFO LabVIEW Drivers

3. If necessary, start the installation process manually as follows:

3a. Open the File Explorer ( icon in the taskbar under Windows

8.1 Pro).

Note: To access the File Explorer on your unit, from the front panel, press the

button to show the taskbar. From the lower left corner of the screen, tap the Start button ( ),and then tap the File Explorer tile.

3b. Locate the autorun.exe file, then double-click on it to start the

installation procedure and follow the on-screen instructions.

You should keep the default names and paths suggested by the installation program.

4. Once the software installation is complete, install the patches available for your LabVIEW version.

If the patches are not included on your LabVIEW CD (or USB key), you may download them from National Instruments’ Web site at www.ni.com.

4a. Open the File Explorer ( icon in the taskbar under Windows

8.1 Pro).

Note: To access the File Explorer on your unit, from the front panel, press the

button to show the taskbar. From the lower left corner of the screen, tap the Start button ( ),and then tap the File Explorer tile.

4b. Locate the Updates\setup.exe file, then double-click on it to start

the installation procedure, and follow the on-screen instructions.

FTB-500 49

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing EXFO LabVIEW Drivers

To install the EXFO LabVIEW drivers:

1. If you intend to install the LabVIEW drivers on your unit, you can either

transfer the required files from the installation CD to a USB key using a computer or download them from the National Instruments’ Web site.

2. From your computer, insert the installation CD in the CD-ROM drive if needed, unless you have downloaded the drivers from the National Instruments Web site.

From your unit, connect the USB key containing the required files.

3. Start the installation process as follows:

3a. Open the File Explorer ( icon in the taskbar under Windows

8.1 Pro).

Note: To access the File Explorer on your unit, from the front panel, press the

button to show the taskbar. From the lower left corner of the screen, tap the Start button ( ),and then tap the File Explorer tile.

3b. Locate the Labview Drivers\setup.exe file, then double-click on it

to start the installation procedure and follow the on-screen instructions.

For easier use, the drivers will be installed in LabVIEW’s default instrument library folder: C:\Program Files\National Instruments\LabVIEW 2012\instr.lib.

50 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Activating Software Options

The software options purchased at the same time as your unit have been activated for you already. However, if you purchase options afterwards, you will have to activate them yourself.

IMPORTANT

If you want to activate software options for modules of the FTB-81xx Series or the FTB-85xx Series, refer to the user guide of

your product for the specific activation instructions.

In all other cases, you can follow the instructions presented in this section.

Before being able to activate options, you need to contact EXFO with the following information:

 Purchase order number of the newly purchased options

 Module or platform serial number (depending on whether the sof tware

options were purchased for a module or the platform)

 Customer's name

 Customer’s company name

 Customer’s phone number

 Customer’s e-mail address

 Module or platform on which the option will be installed

You will receive a single key (.key) file with which you will be able to unlock all the new options that you have purchased.

FTB-500 51

Getting Started with Your Unit

Activating Software Options

To activate the options for your unit:

1. Connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of your computer.

2. Copy the key file to the USB memory key.

3. Disconnect the USB key from the computer and connect it to your unit.

4. From the main window, tap the System Settings button, and then tap

Options Activation.

5. When the application prompts you to authorize the changes to your unit (identified as “computer”), tap Ye s.

52 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Activating Software Options

6. In the Platform Options tab, use the Browse button to locate the key file that you want to use.

7. Ta p Activate.

The option indicator will turn into a green check mark to confirm that the option is now active.

8. Ta p OK to close the confirmation message, and then Close to exit.

Note: At this point, if you have used a USB key to copy your key file, you can

remove it as it is not required to use your new options.

FTB-500 53

Getting Started with Your Unit

Activating Software Options

To activate software options for your module:

1. Connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of your computer.

2. Copy the key file to the USB memory key.

3. Disconnect the USB key from the computer and connect it to your unit.

4. From the main window, tap the System Settings button, and then tap

Options Activation.

5. When the application prompts you to authorize the changes to your unit (identified as “computer”), tap Ye s.

54 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Activating Software Options

6. In the Module Options tab, use the Browse button to locate the key file that you want to use.

7. Ta p Activate.

The option indicator will turn into a green check mark to confirm that the option is now active.

Note: You can see the supported options for the module in the Options list.

8. Ta p OK to close the confirmation message, and then Close to exit.

Note: At this point, if you have used a USB key to copy your key file, you can

remove it as it is not required to use your new options.

FTB-500 55

Getting Started with Your Unit

Installing Third-Party Software on Your Unit

Since your unit is equipped as a conventional computer would be, you can install third-party software on it, as long as it is compatible with Microsoft Windows 8.1 Pro.

EXFO does not provide any support for the installation, use or troubleshooting of third-party software. Should you need help, refer to the corresponding third-party software documentation or technical support.

Protecting your Unit with an Antivirus Software

By default, your unit is protected with the Windows Defender antivirus software. However, you can apply your own security standards and antivirus strategy.

IMPORTANT

56 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Four-slot model Eight-slot model

Securing your Unit Using the Kensington Lock

Your unit is equipped with a security slot to which you can connect an optional Kensington lock (security cable) to help prevent theft.

To secure your unit:

Connect your lock to the security slot located at the back of your unit.

FTB-500 57

Getting Started with Your Unit

Using a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

Your unit supports many USB devices. The table below gives an overview of the supported USB devices.

Device Details

Memory key For data transfer between your unit and a computer

when you do not have access to a network. If you need information on how to transfer data using a memory key, see Managing Data on page 141.

Keyboard When you are required to enter alphanumeric data,

an on-screen (virtual) keyboard is displayed. However, if you prefer, you can use a hardware keyboard.

Mouse If your prefer to use a mouse instead of the

touchscreen, you can connect one.

Composite device You can use composite devices, that is devices that

input information to your unit using more than one mean (for example, combinations of keyboard and mouse).

Hub This device will be particularly useful to you if you

need extra USB ports.

Printer To print documents such as reports directly from you

unit. If you prefer to use a network printer, you can also configure one. For more information, see Configuring Network Printers on page 83.

58 FTB-500

Getting Started with Your Unit

Using a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

Device Details

3G USB modem key (purchased from EXFO)

To access the Internet without having to connect to a Wi-Fi or an Ethernet network. For more information, see Accessing the Internet with a 3G USB Modem Key on page 118.

USB to RS-232 adapter (purchased from EXFO)

GPS USB key (purchased from EXFO)

To be able to transfer data between your unit and a device only equipped with RS-232 (serial) ports. For more information, see Using the USB to RS-232 Adapter on page 152.

To be able to know the position of your unit (latitude and longitude coordinates). For more information, see Retrieving the GPS Location of Your Unit on page 122.

You can connect several devices at the same time.

To use a USB device with your unit:

Connect the USB device to any of the USB ports located on the right panel or on the front of the unit (see Main Features on page 2).

Note: It is not necessary to turn off the unit before connecting the USB device. The

software will automatically detect its presence.

You r dev ice i s a u tom ati cally recognized and immediately usable (provided that it uses the drivers already available on your unit).

FTB-500 59

Getting Started with Your Unit

Configuring an External Monitor

Although your unit is equipped with a touchscreen, you might want to connect an external monitor.

You can configure the external monitor in the Windows Control Panel. In Control Panel, when you select the duplicate displays feature, the resolution of the external monitor is set to 800 x 600 automatically, which corresponds to the default resolution of the touchscreen.

Although the maximum resolution of the touchscreen is 800 x 600, you can select a higher resolution for the external monitor with the extend displays feature. The smallest resolution that you will then be able to select for the external monitor is 1024 x 768.

To configure an external monitor:

1. Connect the external monitor to the Video Out port, located on the left

side of the unit.

2. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

60 FTB-500

3. Ta p Control Panel.

4. Ta p Hardware and Sound.

Getting Started with Your Unit

Configuring an External Monitor

FTB-500 61

Getting Started with Your Unit

Configuring an External Monitor

5. Under Display, tap Adjust screen resolution.

6. Set the parameters according to your needs, and then tap OK to

confirm.

62 FTB-500

4 Setting Up Your FTB-500

Adjusting Brightness

You may want to adjust the screen brightness yourself to better fit your work environment or preferences. Values are kept in memory even when you turn the unit off.

If you want to set the delay after which the display is turned off to save power, see Configuring the Power Management Options on page 97.

To adjust the display brightness:

From the unit’s front panel, press the button repeatedly to switch between the available levels.

1. From the right side of the screen, swipe left to display the Charm bar.

2. Ta p Settings, and then the icon.

3. Move the slider until the screen appearance is to your liking.

The new brightness value is taken into account immediately.

FTB-500 63

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Audio in port

(for 3.5 mm connector)

Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume

Your unit is equipped with a built-in speaker, but you can connect an external speaker if you prefer. You can also connect a microphone or a headset to your unit.

To fit your work environment, you may adjust the microphone as well as the speaker (built-in or external) or headphones volume. Values are kept in memory even when you turn the unit off.

Note: When you use a headset, ensure that both the microphone and

headphones jacks are connected properly to the appropriate audio ports. The control of the volume for the microphone and the headphones of the headset are independent of each other.

To adjust microphone volume:

1. Ensure that your microphone (or microphone jack if you are using a

headset) is connected to the audio in port located on the right panel of the unit.

2. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

64 FTB-500

3. Ta p Control Panel.

4. Ta p Hardware and Sound.

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume

FTB-500 65

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume

5. Under Sound, tap Manage audio devices.

6. Select the Recording tab.

7. Ensure that your microphone is selected, and then tap Properties.

66 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume

8. If you are using a headset and want to hear your voice through the headphones when you speak in the microphone, from the Listen tab, select the Listen to this device check box.

9. From the Levels tab, move the sliders until the settings are to your liking. If the sound coming from your microphone is too low, you may want to adjust the boost level as well.

10. Tap OK to confirm your new settings and close the window.

11. Tap OK to close the window and return to Control Panel.

FTB-500 67

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Audio out port

(for 3.5 mm connector)

Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume

To adjust speaker (or headphones) volume:

1. If necessary, ensure that the external speaker (or headphone jack if

you are using a headset) is connected to the audio out port located on the right panel of the unit.

2. From the right side of the screen, swipe left to display the Charm bar.

3. Ta p Settings, and then the icon.

4. Move the slider until the sound level is to your liking.

Note: You can also access the sound level slider by tapping the icon from the

taskbar.

The new value is taken into account immediately.

68 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Recalibrating the Touchscreen

If you notice the touchscreen does not behave in the way it used to (for example, it is now difficult to select items) it probably needs a recalibration. You can perform a 4-point, 9-point (linearization), 16-point (linearization), or even a 25-point (linearization) calibration. You can perform a 25-point linearization when you need more accuracy on screen edges and corners.

You can stop the calibration process at any time, but the touchscreen will still need calibration. The parameters are taken into account only when the process is complete.

Note: If you have trouble accessing the touchscreen calibration feature because

the touchscreen is not behaving as expected, you can connect a USB mouse.

IMPORTANT

To get the optimum performance out of your touchscreen:

 Always use the calibration tool provided with ToolBox (not the

tool provided with Windows).

 Be as accurate as possible when you press the center of the

targets that appear during touchscreen calibration. This will ensure a greater accuracy of the touchscreen, especially along the edges and in corners.

 Do not change the default resolution of the touchscreen

(800 x 600). Doing so will affect its performance and accuracy.

FTB-500 69

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Recalibrating the Touchscreen

To recalibrate the touchscreen:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Touch Screen Calibration.

70 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Select if you do not want the

calibration parameters to be

kept in memory

Recalibrating the Touchscreen

3. From the Device tab, select PenMount 6000 USB, and then tap Configure.

4. For a 4-point calibration, tap the Standard Calibration button.

For a linearization, select the number of points, and then tap Advanced Calibration.

Note: For the advanced calibration, if you wish to view a grid showing the

FTB-500 71

difference in linearity before and after the operation, select the Plot calibration data check box. The previous values are represented with navy blue lines and the new ones with black lines.

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Operation is underway

New parameters taken into account

Recalibrating the Touchscreen

5. Using the stylus (or any blunt pointing device), simply press the center of the different targets that appear on the screen. Keep pressing until the application displays Lift off to proceed to indicate that the new parameters have been taken into account.

Note: If you want to stop the calibration process, stop pressing the screen. The

application will close automatically after a few seconds and you will return to the touchscreen calibration tool window.

When the number of calibration points is reached, the application will display a message indicating that the calibration is in progress.

6. When the application prompts you, press the center of a last target to complete the calibration operation. Once it is done, you return to the touchscreen calibration tool window automatically.

7. Ta p OK to close the window. Tap OK again to return to the System Settings window.

72 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Customizing the Right-Click Feature

By default, you can perform a “press and hold” action which corresponds to right-clicking with your touchscreen (see Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen on page 44). However, you can disable this feature if you prefer.

You can also modify the delay before the unit considers that you are right-clicking, as well as the amount of time before displaying the shortcut menu once you have right-clicked.

To customize the right-click feature:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Control Panel.

FTB-500 73

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Customizing the Right-Click Feature

3. Ta p Hardware and Sound.

4. Ta p Pen and Touch.

74 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Customizing the Right-Click Feature

5. From the list, select Press and hold.

6. Ta p Settings.

7. If you want to use the right-click feature with your unit, select the

Enable press and hold for right-clicking check box. Clear the check box if you prefer not to use this feature.

FTB-500 75

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Customizing the Right-Click Feature

8. If you want to modify the response time of the right-click, move the

Speed or Duration sliders to adjust the configuration to your needs.

9. Ta p OK to confirm your changes.

76 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Logon

Note: Only administrator-level users can enable or disable the automatic logon

feature.

You can configure your unit to automatically log on to Windows at startup (no need to select a user and enter a password). You can also disable this feature if you prefer to define separate user accounts with different user access rights and passwords.

Note: For security reasons, when the unit comes back from sleep mode, the

application will prompt you to select a user and enter a password (if you have defined one), even if you have enabled the automatic logon feature.

Also for security reasons, by default, the automatic logon is not enabled. Once it is enabled, if you want to modify the password of the user account for which the automatic logon is enabled, you will have to disable the feature first, and then enable it again once the new password is defined.

If you want to modify the account used for the automatic logon, you will also have to disable the feature first, and then enable it again for the new account.

IMPORTANT

The user name and password that you specify for the automatic logon must correspond to those of an existing user account.

You can create user accounts or modify passwords from the Accounts window (Charm bar > Settings > Change PC settings > Accounts).

FTB-500 77

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Logon

To enable the automatic logon:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Automatic Logon.

3. From the User Accounts window, clear the Users must enter a user

name and password to use this computer check box.

4. Ta p OK to confirm.

78 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Logon

5. Enter the desired user name (account) and the corresponding password.

6. Ta p OK to confirm and to return the System Settings window.

At next startup, you will no longer need to specify a user name and password (except if the unit comes back from sleep mode).

To disable the automatic logon:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Automatic Logon.

FTB-500 79

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Logon

3. From the User Accounts window, select the Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer check box.

4. Ta p OK to confirm and to return the System Settings window.

At next startup, you will have to specify the user name and password.

80 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Startup Applications

The first time you start your unit, Toolbox is displayed. You can configure your unit to automatically start any of the available applications as soon as Toolbox is started. This can save you time, as you do not need to ensure that they are already running before starting your tests.

If the required module is not present in the unit, the specified applications will simply not be started. In some cases, you may have to select the applications again the next time the module is inserted into the unit.

To set applications to start automatically at Toolbox startup:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Startup Applications.

FTB-500 81

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Startup Applications

3. Under Module Applications or Other Applications, select the applications you want to start automatically by selecting the corresponding check boxes.

4. Ta p OK to use the new settings. Tap Cancel to exit without using the new settings.

Note: The new settings will be taken into account the next time Toolbox is started.

82 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Configuring Network Printers

Your unit supports both (local) USB and network printers (you may have to install specific drivers on your unit).

For more information on USB printers connection, see Using a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices on page 58.

To print documents and images on a network printer, you must configure the printer first. You must know the IP address of the network printer that you want to configure, and ensure that your unit is connected to the same network as the printer (either wireless or Ethernet connection). Contact your network administrator for more information on your specific network configuration.

For more information on printing, see Printing Documents on page 113.

To configure the printer:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Control Panel.

FTB-500 83

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Configuring Network Printers

3. Under Hardware and Sound, tap View devices and printers.

4. Ta p Add a printer.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

84 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

You may display the user interface in one of the available languages.

The availability of the languages is function of the language group that was installed on your unit at time of purchase. It is possible to download language packs from the Microsoft Website to add extra languages if necessary.

The ToolBox application is offered in several languages. This means that if ToolBox supports the language currently selected in Windows, it will automatically be displayed in this language. If the selected language is not supported, the English version will be used.

When you change the interface language, the corresponding keyboard is automatically added to the list of available keyboards. You can then enter text in a specific language (both on-screen or “real” keyboards). Once the keyboards are added, you can switch easily from one input language to another.

Values are kept in memory even when you turn the unit off.

FTB-500 85

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

To select a new interface language:

1. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

2. Ta p Control Panel.

3. Under Clock, Language, and Region, tap Add a language.

86 FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

4. Select the desired language from the list.

5. Ta p Options.

Setting Up Your FTB-500

FTB-500 87

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

6. If you want to select another keyboard layout than the one that has been added by default, proceed as follows.

6a. Under Input method, tap Add an input method.

6b. Select the desired keyboard layout, and then tap Add.

88 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

7. Under Windows display language, tap Make this the primary language.

8. When the application prompts you to log off, tap Log off now.

9. Once you see the lock screen, swipe it down to reveal the user

accounts.

10. Log to your user account.

The new language is now selected and you are able to switch from one input language to another.

FTB-500 89

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Language code

Selecting the Language of Operation

To switch from one of the available input languages to another:

1. If necessary, from the front panel of the unit, press the button to

show the taskbar.

2. From the taskbar, tap the language code to display the list of available input languages.

3. From the list of languages, select the desired one.

You are now ready to start entering text in the selected input language.

Note: Modifying the input language does not modify the language of the

interface.

To download language packs:

1. Ensure that your unit has access to the Internet.

2. From the main window, tap the System Settings button.

90 FTB-500

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

3. Ta p Control Panel.

4. Under Clock, Language, and Region, tap Add a language.

FTB-500 91

Setting Up Your FTB-500

Selecting the Language of Operation

5. Ta p Add a language.

6. Browse the list of languages, and then select the one that you want to

use.

7. Ta p Open to access the list of sub-languages.

92 FTB-500

EXFO FTB-500 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Certification Information

1 Introducing the FTB-500

Main Features

LED Indicators Description

Function Buttons Description

Pow er So urces

Automatic Fan Speed Management

Conventions

2 Safety Information

Other Safety Symbols on Your Unit

Laser Safety Information

Electrical Safety Information

3 Getting Started with Your Unit

Grounding Your Unit

Positioning Your Unit

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

Turning On Your Unit

Turning Off Your Unit

Configuring Your Unit At First Startup

Accessing and Exiting ToolBox

Starting Module Applications

Using the On-Screen (Virtual) Keyboard

Working with Windows 8.1 Pro

Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

Installing EXFO LabVIEW Drivers

Activating Software Options

Installing Third-Party Software on Your Unit

Protecting your Unit with an Antivirus Software

Securing your Unit Using the Kensington Lock

Using a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

Configuring an External Monitor

4 Setting Up Your FTB-500

Adjusting Brightness

Adjusting Microphone and Speaker Volume

Recalibrating the Touchscreen

Customizing the Right-Click Feature

Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Logon

Selecting the Startup Applications

Configuring Network Printers

Selecting the Language of Operation