Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) User Guide June 01, 2016 Includes the base unit and optional MoCA/RF module Supports firmware version v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Spirent Communications, Inc. 5280 Corporate Dr., Suite A100 Frederick, MD 21703 USA 1-800-SPIRENT (North America) Copyright © 2016 Spirent Communications, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Spirent Communications 5280 Corporate Dr., Suite A100 Frederick, MD 21703 USA +1-800-SPIRENT (North America) www.spirent.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Contents 1: Introduction 1.1 Product purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 1.2 User prerequisites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 1.3 Documentation notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 1.3.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 2.2.5 Unit symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21 2.3 General product handling and operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21 Overview 2.3.1 Protection from water and dust ingress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22 2.3.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 2.7.1 Battery installation/replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-55 2.8 FTP information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57 Overview 2.8.1 Admin Port setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57 2.8.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 4.3 10/100/1G testing diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2 4.4 IP Network Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2 4.5 IP testing options over Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 Overview 4.6 Passive testing. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Overview Intro 5.10.2 System/Module Settings > RF Video Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17 5.10.3 System/Module Settings > ADSL/VDSL2 Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17 5.10.4 System/Module Settings > Combined Module Default . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17 5.10.5 System/Module Settings > MoCA Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 6.7.2 Results - Single Device PLT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12 6.8 Throughput. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-14 Overview 6.8.1 Setup - Throughput . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14 6.8.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 7.2 Overview of testing capabilities and setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2 7.2.1 Testing scenarios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2 7.3 Join MoCA Network (Single-ended testing details). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4 Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview 7.3.1 Join MoCA network setup parameters .
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro MoCA data link layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-36 7.7.5 Common coaxial cable problems that affect MoCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-37 7.7.6 About multiple MoCA versions on a single network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-38 Overview 8: MoCA/RF - RF Testing 8.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Supported threshold ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26 8.8.3 RF Script settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26 Overview 8.9 Supported channels and frequencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-27 9: Specifications 9.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 1: Introduction The Tech-X Flex is a versatile and modular handheld test set with extensive testing capabilities, including: • Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity, including 1 Gb Ethernet, Wireless AC, and spectrum analysis. • MoCA network synchronization with comprehensive statistics reporting. • RF signal analysis, including digital and analog channels up to 1 GHz.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 1.2 User prerequisites Overview To use the unit and this documentation effectively, you should have some knowledge of network architectures, especially Ethernet-based networks typically found in the home. While this document attempts to explain unit functionality in reasonable detail, it cannot substitute for a basic understanding of networking principles.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 • Module - A modular hardware component designed to attach and interface with the Tech-X Flex base unit that provides additional functionality. • Provider - A broadband service provider, such as a telephone or cable company. • Subscriber - A customer receiving broadband services from a provider. Additional MoCA-related terms: MoCA - Multimedia over Coax Alliance (see MoCA overview on page 7-31).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) WAN - Wide Area Network, the term normally used to describe the provider network “upstream” from the residential gateway/router which delivers the broadband services. In the case where both a LAN and WAN operate over MoCA on the same cable, the WAN uses a different channel. • Node - A MoCA-compliant device that is synchronized with and communicating on a MoCA network.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 - Earth ground, a symbol that may appear on the unit and/or related diagrams indicating a component that must be grounded to Earth. • - A symbol which may appear on the module indicating that the outer conductor of a connected coaxial cable (the “shield”) should be properly grounded to earth.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview • This equipment should be used only by qualified personnel with a strong knowledge of the equipment and the networks on which it is designed to operate. In all cases, all local safety and operational protocols should be followed. • Any usage of the equipment in a manner not specified by the manufacturer may impair features related to safety and user protection.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) UK (EMEA TAC) +44 1803 546333 Overview +33 (1) 6137 2270 Wi-Fi France Ethernet +86 (800) 810-9529 System China mainland only IP/Video +86 (10) 8233 0033 MoCA China RF 1-800-SPIRENT Specs North America Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 2: Product Overview This section provides an overview of the Tech-X Flex product and includes the following information: • Introduction to the workflow interface on page 2-1 - Describes the new workflow-based user interface. • Product overview on page 2-16 - Describes the physical unit and includes a high-level overview of system features and capabilities.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 2-1 Workflow splash screen Ethernet The initial screens represent an icon-based menu system, which you can navigate similar to a common mobile device interface. When you reach an actual workflow, the unit may present instructional videos and/or request input parameters, then run any variety of testing or administrative functions.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! • Internally, workflow scripting is separated from the unit firmware. By default, scripts are automatically downloaded during a firmware update; however it is possible to implement an architecture where scripts download independently. This type of architecture allows a more flexible system for updating workflows. For more information, please contact Spirent. 2.1.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 2-3 Wi-Fi INSTALLATION workflow - Router testing instructional screen Ethernet At the bottom of this screen, you can see the common navigational tools for workflows, including QUIT, ANIMATION, BACK, and NEXT. These controls are the most intuitive method of navigation, although some screens provide alternative methods such as buttons and mouse click responses.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 L4 Performance Test on page 6-7 • Speedtest on page 6-17 NOTE: In most circumstances, it is likely that the proper setup parameters are pre-determined by administrators and/or other subject-matter experts, then provided to testers as some form of common work instruction. Specs RF MoCA The workflow then requests the data rates for the customer.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Noting that a Wi-Fi connection has yet to be established, the workflow begins the connection setup. The first screen is a modification of the classic Wi-Fi Scan, where you can select the proper customer network. After this screen, the workflow requests the authentication parameters, similar to the classic WiFi Connect function (see Wi-Fi Setup > Connect on page 3-7).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Assuming that WAN throughput is acceptable and you are ready to continue, the workflow moves to its second major stage, LAN testing. To complete the workflow, independent testing must be run at the location of each Wi-Fi client (STB, computer, etc.), or any other location where you want to verify the service.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Once you have completed all the rooms, you can navigate to the completion of the workflow. The workflow will present some recommendations based on the results of testing, then allow you to view the complete set of results for each location. Overview NOTE: Where applicable, pass/fail evaluations are presented based on scripted thresholds.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 INSTALLATION Synchronizes with a MoCA network, then runs a MoCA Quick Test. Pass/fail criteria is applied based on normal thresholds configured for MoCA testing. • On the input parameters required for the synchronization, see Join MoCA network setup parameters on page 7-5.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) For more information SPEED TEST Synchronizes with a MoCA network and then runs either a L4 Performance Test or an NDT-based Speed Test. Standard input parameters for the speed testing apply. • On the input parameters required for the synchronization, see Join MoCA network setup parameters on page 7-5.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Description/notes For more information INSTALLATION Runs a Channel Sweep Test on a series of specified channels. Like the same test launched from the classic view, the workflow version requires you to select a test location, which determines the set of thresholds to apply.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 2-14 Wi-Fi workflow menu Ethernet Table 2-3 System IP/Video MoCA RF Specs 2-12 Wi-Fi workflow descriptions Workflow Description/notes For more information INSTALLATION Runs a series of tests to verify a complete service installation with a Wi-Fi router. See Workflow usage example (Wi-Fi INSTALLATION) on page 2-3.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Description/notes For more information IP TOOLS Establishes an IP interface using • On Ping testing, see Ping on page 6-4. DHCP, then guides the user through • On Traceroute testing, see Traceroute Ping, Traceroute, and/or Web on page 6-6. Browser testing, where the user must • On Web Browser testing, see Web provide standard input parameters Browser on page 6-10.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Description/notes For more information VOD SCORING Establishes an IP interface using DHCP, then runs a Video QoS test. This workflow requires several setup steps, including the physical initiation of a VoD stream on the network and the entry of several complex setup parameters. The setup and results of the Video QoS test use classic view screens.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 For more information VIDEO MONITOR Launches the Video Monitor feature. See Video > Video Monitor on page 5-11. The normal dongle and associated setup is required. SYSTEM SETUP > Launches the classic Version Info VERSION INFO screen. See Version Info on page 5-7.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Workflow Description/notes For more information Overview EXIT TO CLASSIC Switches to the classic SYSTEM See System Menu on page 5-1. menu. This action closes the workflow view completely. 2.2 Product overview Wi-Fi The following sections provide a high-level overview of the unit. 2.2.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Power on/off Intro 2.2.2 Front panel controls LED indicators MoCA-RF Wi-Fi Touchscreen display Ethernet [Wi-Fi] 0: Wi-Fi Setup – 802.11bgn 1: Wi-Fi Setup – 802.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Table 2-6 Front panel feature descriptions Overview Wi-Fi Ethernet System IP/Video Indicator Function Power on/off Powers the unit on and off, and is also used to place the unit into sleep mode (see Powering on/off on page 2-22). LED indicators See LED indicators on page 2-18. Strap mount See Attaching the strap on page 2-22.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Indicates the status of the link over the active interface. For example, when using the WiFi interface, the LED indicates the status of the Wi-Fi link. The general behavior is as follows: • Solid green - The unit is properly linked and/or synchronized with a comparable farend device.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 2.2.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) – • The USB port is used for specialized functions related to transferring files to and from the unit. This port and related functions are described elsewhere in the product documentation as applicable.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 2.3.1 Protection from water and dust ingress Overview Although the basic unit provides some protection from water and dust ingress for outdoor use, Spirent recommends the use of the optional jacket to increase the level of protection. For information about purchasing the jacket, please contact your account representative. 2.3.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 2.3.5 About the touchscreen display Overview The unit display includes touchscreen functionality which allows you to operate most display controls by touching the screen. You should use the provided stylus or a similar device. It is recommended to avoid using your fingers because it is difficult to control selections with precision.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 1. Using the function keys or the touchscreen, select the correct menu/interface. Overview A function key selects the function/test/menu directly above 8: Throughput Wi-Fi 10/100/1G System 2. Using the up/down arrows, number pad, and/or touchscreen, select the desired menu item and possibly submenu items to activate the desired function/test. 3.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro screen and the N1 key has no effect. In all cases, the unit will disallow the entry of an invalid character, such as illegal characters when entering a file name. Overview • If you enter a value that is out of range for the underlying entry field, the Enter key on the screen becomes disabled (grayed out).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Repeats (reruns) the most recent function/test, using the same setup as the previous test. Note the following: • This feature can also be invoked by pressing the N1 key on the physical keypad. • Only the most recent test can be repeated. For example, you can’t run a ping test, then a traceroute, then repeat the ping test. • Whenever a new test setup screen is entered, the unit automatically disables this button.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 2.3.10 Capturing a screen image (screenshot) Most screens provide a screen capture feature, invoked with the screen capture button in the title bar: Overview Figure 2-22 Screen capture button (title bar) ...
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! When using the brightness button for the capture, the screen brightness will change momentarily, then return to the original setting once the capture is taken. • For most screens, the PNG (Portable Network Graphics) format provides the best compromise between image quality and file size. The BMP (bitmap) format provides lossless quality (that is, produces an exact replica), but uses a larger file size.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro mandate on how any given organization should interpret results. In all cases, you should consult local and corporate protocol for the standards by which you interpret results. This document does not intend in any way to serve as an authorized or approved standard for the operation and maintenance of any telecommunications network. Overview 2.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Wi-Fi Overview Fastener screws Figure 2-25 Rear of unit with a module installed, showing the fastener screws RF MoCA Once a module is attached and has booted up, a menu corresponding to the module functionality will appear over the F1 function key. For example, when the MoCA/RF module is attached, the F1 menu shows MoCA-RF. If no module is attached, the F1 key shows no menu.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 2.4.2 Connecting the module to the coax network Overview The module has two 75 ohm F-type cable connections that can be connected to the coaxial cable network at any suitable location. Typically, the unit is connected at a location where troubleshooting and/or verification is specifically required, such as a set-top box (STB) or a LAN router.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) MoCA in-line testing only Figure 2-28 Coaxial port functions 2.4.5 SYNC LED behavior The SYNC LED generally operates as follows, with respect to activities within the MoCA and RF menus: MoCA - Solid green when the unit is actively synchronized to a MoCA network, off otherwise. • RF - Solid green when locked on a channel, red if a channel lock attempt failed, off otherwise.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 2.5.1 About VNC Overview VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a technology that allows the graphical interface of one computer (such as the display screen of the unit) to be rendered on another networked computer, where it can be operated as if it were the original.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) VNC client support/installation Android operating system (mobile devices) VNC control has been tested with the Mocha VNC Lite app, v2.1. The app is free and may be downloaded from the normal app store on the device. Follow the instructions provided during the download/installation. Note that other hardware platforms, operating systems, and/or VNC clients may also allow proper remote control.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! IP/Video System Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! IP/Video System Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! IP/Video System Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) IP/Video System Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 2.5.3 Remote control setup scenarios To establish a remote control session over VNC, an IP connection is required between the built-in VNC server on the unit and a VNC client on a separate PC, tablet, or smartphone device.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Local remote control (via a router/LAN) setup Overview This setup is intended to allow local remote control over a residential LAN or similar. For example, it might be used by a technician who needs to connect the unit at some point on a residential network, then control the unit from elsewhere in the residence.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) 1. If you plan to use a 10/100/1G Admin Port, connect the unit to the router with a physical 10/100 (Ethernet) cable. Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 NOTE: Remote control over a Wi-Fi Admin Port will not allow access to functions within the Wi-Fi menu (F2). Overview 2. Set up a Wi-Fi Admin Port or a 10/100/1G Admin Port on the unit, as applicable (see Admin Port on page 5-5).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 2-40 AP Remote Control results screen Ethernet System Afterwards, you can use any Wi-Fi enabled device to connect to the network using standard methods. The network is unsecured and requires no credentials, other than knowledge of the SSID. Once connected, use the IP address shown to initiate the VNC connection, 192.168.238.1 in this example.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Overview Wi-Fi Admin Port Wi-Fi Wi-Fi -or- Ethernet LAN port Internet Ethernet System BHR Figure 2-41 Remote control over an internet connection This type of remote control allows access to nearly all test and management functions on the unit unless you connect the unit over a Wi-Fi Admin Port, in which case all functions within the Wi-Fi menu (F2) will be unavailable.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 2-42 Enable WAN Remote Control results screen Ethernet System Note the following: • If this function fails, the router may not support UPnP management or it may have been configured in a manner that prevents the unit from performing the necessary tasks. Router administration is beyond the scope of this document.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! If you never manually undo the router configuration (Disable WAN Remote Control), the forwarding path may remain indefinitely. This may or may not be of concern. While it represents a path through the firewall that did not exist previously, its scope is limited to traffic on port 5900 reaching the address that the unit was using during the VNC session. A network administrator should provide advice and procedures related to this possibility.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 1. In the initial setup screen that appears when you launch the viewer, enter the IP address of the unit and click OK. Overview NOTE: If you are connecting over the internet using the WAN Remote Control feature, you must include a colon and the port expected on the subscriber router WAN interface.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Figure 2-44 RealVNC v5.0.5 setup screen - Internet (remote site) remote control example RF MoCA IP/Video System 2. When the VNC window appears, operate the unit using the computer mouse, keyboard, etc. as if operating the unit directly. Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 1. On the mobile device, make sure that the Wi-Fi interface is enabled. Refer to the documentation of the specific device for more information. 2. Launch Mocha Lite. Overview Wi-Fi Ethernet System Figure 2-46 Mocha VNC Lite initial setup screen IP/Video 3. Tap Edit in the initial setup screen. 4.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 NOTE: Remember that you can double-tap any text entry field to produce the unit keypad, just like when using the actual unit touchscreen. IP/Video 5. When the VNC window appears, operate the unit using the mobile device touchscreen as if operating the unit directly.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 License details Affected hardware component Constellation MoCA/RF module Enables the constellation graph for RF testing (see About QAM and the constellation graph on page 8-18). Dual Ethernet Base unit Enables passive testing on the 10/100/1G interface. More specifically, it allows the unit to be connected in-line with an existing Ethernet link and mirror traffic internally for analysis.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Enables the following commands: Wi-Fi • System > Admin Port > Wi-Fi Admin Port > AdHoc Remote Control • System > Admin Port > WAN Remote Control For more information, see Remote control of the unit on page 2-33. Overview Base unit MoCA/RF module Enables overall RF testing (see MoCA/RF - RF Testing on page 8-1). Web Browser All Enables the internet web browser on all applicable interfaces.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro • New battery packs should be ordered from Spirent (MPL# T5411). The use of any other battery could damage the unit and create a safety hazard for users. • Batteries contain hazardous contaminants and should be disposed of according to local regulations. It may be illegal to discard batteries in the general trash. Overview To replace the battery pack 1.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Figure 2-49 Inserting a battery pack System 3. Following battery insertion, reinstall the hand screws. NOTE: Do not overtighten the screws, which could cause the plastic to crack. This section describes general information associated with FTP server setup. Information about specific file transfer operations is provided elsewhere in this document as appropriate.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 2.8.2 FTP server installation and setup Overview Currently, the only extensively tested and approved FTP server is FileZilla, a free, open-source application available at http://filezilla-project.org/ at the time of this writing. The FileZilla server runs on the Windows platform only and may run on any Windows computer. Typically, a networked desktop PC is the best choice to host the server.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) 9. In the Users window, click OK to save the new user. 10. Back in the management interface, if necessary select Server > Active to ensure that the server is actively listening for FTP requests. NOTE: FileZilla includes a variety of configuration options, including whether to automatically launch and enable the server upon Windows startup. Further information is beyond the scope of this document.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview TCP port used by the FTP server, typically 21 (standard FTP port). The server port can be changed in the server management application - see the server documentation for more information. FTP authentication information, valid for a user account currently configured on the FTP server.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) You have specified the FTP input parameters exactly right. A single character mistake in any of them will cause a connection failure. • The FTP server computer and the unit have IP-level connectivity. Either device should be able to ping the other. • The traffic between the unit and the FTP server is not blocked by a firewall.
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Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 3: Wi-Fi Testing Menu Wi-Fi testing on the unit includes: • Scanning for available wireless access points • Connecting to an existing network and obtaining IP information • Basic network-level testing such as ping, traceroute, and web browsing All Wi-Fi testing is performed from the Wi-Fi menu. When this menu is active, all testing uses the Wi-FI interface only.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 3-2 Wi-Fi main menu (T5100) units Ethernet 3.1 Important wireless 802.11ac note (T5100 models only) System For T5100 models only, when the unit is actively transmitting in 802.11ac mode, the unit should be placed on a horizontal surface with a minimum distance of 20 cm from any part of a human body.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) By emulating a wireless PC in the home, you can perform troubleshooting activities such as: • Verifying ISP availability and therefore ruling out the provider network as the cause of internet connectivity problems. If the unit can access the internet but a subscriber PC cannot, it is likely that the problem resides in the PC and/or its wireless interface.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 3.3.3 If you cannot connect (troubleshooting tips) If you are in range of a wireless access point but cannot connect, verify the following: Overview If entering all information manually, you have properly identified the network.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! For any WPS option to function, the gateway/router must support it. If not, the option is not applicable to the current network. • WPS options are available for all supported Wi-Fi protocols. • For more information on WPS, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wi-Fi_Protected_Setup. Otherwise, further information on WPS is beyond the scope of this document. Wi-Fi 3.4 Wi-Fi Setup These functions operate generally identically for all wireless protocols. 3.4.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Results - Scan (Wi-Fi Setup) Overview The scan lists all networks within range of the unit, displaying the SSID (name), an icon that denotes whether the network is secure (WEP, etc.), and other relevant parameters. The scan reruns periodically and updates the table. For more information on the fields in the table, see the descriptions under Wi-Fi Details on page 3-11.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) The Connect function attempts a connection with a wireless network according to the specified parameters. If you used the Wi-Fi Setup > Scan function results to launch the Connect, many of the parameters are automatically populated. For this reason, the Scan function is generally recommended as a prerequisite. Wi-Fi Once the unit successfully connects, the network parameters are saved in memory under the respective SSID (name).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Parameter Description Security Type Type of security in use on the network: Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Overview • WEP-64 - Wired Equivalent Privacy using a 40-bit key • WEP-128 - Wired Equivalent Privacy using a 104-bit key • WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK - Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA or WPA2), pre-shared key mode • WPA-WPS - Enables the WPS options. The specific WPS option to use should be specified for Key Type.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Parameter Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Description Ethernet Connect (Wi-Fi Setup) - Setup parameters page 3 Description DHCP After Connect Causes the unit to attempt a DHCP-based IP network setup if the connection is successful. Otherwise, IP network setup will be a separate task following the connection (see IP Testing > IP Network Setup on page 3-18).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Results - Connect (Wi-Fi Setup) Overview The unit reports whether the connection was successful or not. If the connection is successful, the SYNC LED lights as solid green. If the connection failed and you don’t know why, see If you cannot connect (troubleshooting tips) on page 3-4.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Figure 3-6 Sample Wi-Fi analyzer screen - 2.4 GHz spectrum MoCA IP/Video System Due to the extent of the 5 GHz spectrum (wireless N and AC), the full graph for this spectrum is spread over three tabs. Ethernet Wi-Fi Overview Intro The following figure shows a sample 2.4 GHz (wireless B and G) analysis: Figure 3-7 Sample Wi-Fi analyzer screen - 5 GHz spectrum RF 3.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 3-8 Wi-Fi Details screen - Wireless AC connection Ethernet When launched from the Details command following a successful Wi-Fi Admin Port connection, the screen shows similar information in a more graphical format. The screen also includes some additional information that is only available following the connection.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) • Graphs showing the RF utilization/interference and Devices for the network (see Table 3-4 on page 3-14). Overview A Channel bar graph composed of segments for each detected network/SSID using the current channel, with the currently-connected SSID segment at the bottom. The total number of SSID segments in the graph is displayed underneath.The unit attempts to size each segment proportional to the measured signal strength.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro The following table describes the Wi-Fi parameters presented in the different screens: Table 3-4 Details (Wi-Fi Setup) - Results Overview Wi-Fi Result Description SSID (Service Set Identifier) Network name, as configured in the wireless router. MAC Address The hardware address of the physical interface at the wireless access point. This should be a unique identifier of the hardware.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Note that the utilization rate applies to the entire channel and all connected devices, not just traffic that involves the unit. On any given channel, all devices must share time using CSMA technology to avoid collisions. Channel Access Points Total number of independent networks/SSIDs broadcasting on the current channel. Clients on this AP Estimated total number of hosts connected to the current access point, including the unit.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Table 3-5 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Devices table fields Overview Result Description MAC Address Hardware address of the device Wi-Fi interface. Vendor Device vendor, based on a simple lookup of the MAC address. This lookup uses an internal table that contains data similar to any publicly-available address lookup. Therefore, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Within the sample for the device, the total number of Wi-Fi packets sent as a retransmission. Due to the uncertain nature of a wireless connection, each packet must be acknowledged by the receiver, otherwise a retransmission occurs. The unit uses the retransmission flag in these packets to produce this count. 3.6 Wi-Fi Spectrum Analysis NOTE: The spectral analyzer is a licensable feature and requires the newer T5300 hardware to operate.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro • Running - When toggled, pauses and resumes graph updates. • Peak Hold - Enables an additional graph that represents the maximum power levels seen at all points on the spectrum, since the peak hold was activated. To reset the graph, toggle this command. The blue line on Figure 3-11 is a peak hold plot. Overview • 2.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Additional notes Connection Info Results - IP Network Setup on page 6-3 This function reports the IP information that is currently assigned to the 10/100/1G interface and is identical to the results screen from any successful IP Network Setup.
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Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 4: 10/100/1G Testing Menu With the 10/100/1G testing menu, the unit is able to join a 10/100/1G Ethernet link and run a variety of functions and tests. Figure 4-1 10/100/1G main menu NOTE: On the unit, you can use either 10/100/1G port for single-ended tests such as ping and traceroute. For more information, see About the 10/100/1G ports and connections on page 4-2. 4.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 4.2 About the 10/100/1G ports and connections Overview The unit has two physical 10/100/1G ports which are connected internally by a functional Ethernet switch. Therefore, when performing single-ended tests such as ping or traceroute, you may use either port. When setting up an Ethernet bridge for passive tests, the order of the ports is likewise not important.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Note the following: The unit must be connected to a suitable access device before attempting IP Network Setup (see 10/100/1G testing diagram on page 4-2). • After a successful setup, the main menu shows an IP Network Disconnect command which will terminate the IP connection. If an IP address was obtained via DHCP, it will be released.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 For more information Additional notes Single Device PLT Single Device PLT on page 6-11 --- Overview Speed Test Speedtest on page 6-17 --- Traceroute Traceroute on page 6-6 --- Video QoS Video QoS (Quality of Service) - - on page 6-23 Wi-Fi Intro Test Web Browser Web Browser on page 6-10 --- Ethernet 4.6 Passive testing NOTE: Passive testing is a purchasable option.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Active video stream Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Set-top box Ethernet Passive monitoring Figure 4-3 Bridged (passive) video testing To set up the video test in this example, you should: 1. Connect the physical wires between the endpoints, from router-to-unit and unit-to-STB. 2. Verify that communications between the bridged endpoints are restored.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro link. Therefore, the video stream must be active between the bridged endpoints before the test can begin. Overview For detailed information on the video QoS test parameters and results, see Video QoS (Quality of Service) on page 6-23. 4.7 Ethernet Cable Test Wi-Fi The Ethernet Cable Test evaluates low-level details about an Ethernet connection and the physical cable characteristics.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Ethernet Figure 4-4 Ethernet Cable Test - Setup 4.7.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Description Pair Skew Overview For each pair, the difference in signal propagation time; that is, the time required for an electrical signal to traverse the respective loop. Ideally, all pairs associated with a common signal should have identical or very close propagation times, because a large skew can disrupt high-bandwidth signals with a low tolerance for timing variations.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Wi-Fi Overview Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 5: System Menu The System menu provides access to general system configuration. Figure 5-1 System main menu 5.1 Record Manager (System > Record Manager) The Record Manager is used to manage, view, and transfer record files, which are special files used to store test results, screen captures, and other related data.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro specify otherwise. If you do not have the need for multiple record files, the default record may be sufficient for general use. Overview For screen capture files, each capture is stored in a separate file that is named at the time of the capture. For more information, see Capturing a screen image (screenshot) on page 2-28).
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Description Delete Deletes the selected file. This action cannot be undone. Overview NOTE: Files that begin with INVRES (INVentory/RESults) are normally generated by testing that saves results automatically. They contain a broad scope of information that is designed for incorporation by a custom, back-office management system. For more information, please contact Spirent.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 5.1.3 Record Manager > Screen Capture Files Overview This area allows you to preview and/or delete screen capture files currently stored in the Record Manager (see Capturing a screen image (screenshot) on page 2-28). To upload screen capture files to a remote computer, see Record Manager > Upload Files on page 5-4. 5.1.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 5.2 Admin Port • Wi-Fi Admin Port - Initiates a connection through the Wi-Fi interface. Once in this area, the process of establishing a connection is very similar to establishing a Wi-Fi connection for testing purposes with the Wi-Fi menu. Note that all considerations and limitations involved with a test-related Wi-Fi connection also apply to the Wi-Fi Admin Port.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro • System > Admin Port > WAN Remote Control - See Remote site remote control (via the internet) setup on page 2-46. • System > Admin Port > Wi-Fi Admin Port > AP Remote Control - See Local remote control (via a Wi-Fi access point) setup on page 2-45.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 5.4 Version Info (System > Version Info) RF MoCA This function provides information about hardware and firmware versions currently applicable to the unit, including the attached module, if any. This information may be required when obtaining technical support from Spirent. It may also be useful for verification before and/or after firmware upgrades.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro 5.5 Battery Status (System > Battery Status) Overview This function provides detailed information about the battery and current charging conditions. Note the following: The charging information in this screen may not be accurate if the battery is overheated. For more information, see Important battery charging note on page 2-22.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! • Channel guides must be in the proper XML format as described under About channel guides on page 6-53. • All files with an *.xml extension (case-insensitive) are transferred. Any other files in the designated folder are ignored. NOTE: If a file named thresholds.xml exists (case-insensitive), it will also be ignored. For this reason, a channel guide file cannot use this name.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Overview • When specifying thresholds, the unit enforces theoretical/technical limitations. For example, a percentage cannot be less than zero or greater than 100. In general, if the inherent lower or upper range of a threshold represents a technical limit, the unit restricts the editing of the field altogether.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) If any value exceeds a theoretical limitation, the unit will reset it to a valid value. For example, if a percentage value exceeds 100, it will be reset to 100 upon import. For fields that inherently require a theoretical minimum or maximum, you can specify two hyphens (--) instead of an explicit value.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Intro Overview • The unit has no tuning or decoding capabilities. A simple signal feed from a “video out” source is required. • The ENTER key on the physical keypad toggles the zoom on and off. When the zoom is on, the arrow keys allow navigation around the screen. • The video may lag slightly as compared to a normal television. • The audio connection is optional.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! • A key code is specific to a unit and will not work on any other unit. • Key codes must be provided by Spirent. In some cases, the codes required for your licensed feature set are shipped in the package with the unit. If you have trouble with the codes or require new codes for any reason, please contact Spirent. 5.9 Update Firmware Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro NOTE: The middle column indicates the values to use if you are updating from the Spirent-hosted server. All values should be considered case-sensitive.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Value to use for the Additional description Spirent-hosted server User (leave blank) System Ethernet Wi-Fi Password Authentication information for the rsync server, configured when the server is set up. The Spirent-hosted server does not require authentication. Overview Parameter Intro Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 5.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro Overview Wi-Fi Figure 5-9 Module Settings menu Ethernet 5.10.1 System/Module Settings > Base Unit Table 5-4 Base Unit settings System Tab Description Auto Power Off Sets the maximum amount of idle time after which the unit automatically shuts down to save battery power. This setting has no effect when the unit is connected to external power.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex® (NG2) Description WiFi Region Optional filter for Wi-Fi channel tuning. If set to any value other than International, the unit filters SSIDs during a Wi-Fi Scan according to the valid spectrum available at the specified region. In other words, the Scan results will omit any SSIDs that do not fall within the valid spectrum. Spectral consideration and filtering are based on common industry standards.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 Intro 5.10.7 System/Module Settings > CSM Module Overview 5.10.8 System/Module Settings > MoCA-RF Module Tech-X Flex® (NG2) See the Cable Services Module User Guide. See: • System menu settings/controls (for MoCA) on page 7-27 • System menu settings/controls (for RF) on page 8-22 Wi-Fi 5.10.9 System/Module Settings > Wi-Fi Ethernet These settings are currently not used. 5.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.50 This function provides basic information on current disk space usage. If the available disk space falls below 10%, the unit will start deleting result files automatically, oldest files first. File deletion occurs silently during unit shutdown. 5.15 Wizard GUI Specs RF MoCA IP/Video System Ethernet Closes the “classic” view and launches the workflow interface.
Preliminary issue - Limited distribution only! Tech-X Flex User Guide - Firmware v06.
