Agilent Technologies ProBER 2 Assembly instructions

User Reference
Manual

Agilent ProBER 2
User Reference Manual
Latest Agilent ProBER 2 Information
For the latest Agilent ProBER 2 information, please refer to the following URL on the WorldWide Web:
http://www.tm.agilent.com/tmo/datasheets/English/HPE7580A.html

Introduction
Manual Conventions
The conventions used in this manual to illustrate instrument keys and display
information are as follows:
This is an example of a hardkey. They are located below the display in the handle of
ProBER 2 and give access to different sets of instrument settings. The key shown
here accesses the main menu of the instrument and returns the cursor to the top of
the display.
This is an example of a softkey. They are located immediately below the display and
are used to select instrument settings. The functions associated with softkeys are
shown in the display directly above the softkey and change as you move the display
cursor from one instrument setting to another.
These are the cursor control keys. They are located in the handle and are used to
move the display cursor from one instrument setting to another.
MENU
Tx + Rx

Introduction
ProBER 2 - an overview
2 Mb/s BER and signal quality measurements in a hand-held tester
The ProBER 2 test set provides a powerful hand-held solution for testing 2 Mb/s
and 64 kb/s digital circuits. It offers extensive BER test functions plus a unique
range of signal quality measurements (pulse mask, jitter, level and frequency). This
unmatched (in a hand-held) test capability, combined with the intuitive operation of
ProBER 2, simplifies installation and maintenance testing for faster problem
resolution.
A range of signal quality measurements for faster problem resolution
Save time by quickly identifying signal quality problems before running long-term
error measurements or during trouble-shooting. With a single keystroke, ProBER 2
rapidly identifies any frequency, level, pulse shape or jitter problem on a 2 Mb/s
signal.
Measurement summary
ProBER 2 supports comprehensive functional and parametric capability providing
the ability to fully evaluate 2 Mb/s, n x 64 kb/s and 64 kb/s co-directional circuits.
• Extensive error and alarm generation and measurement
• ITU-T recommendations G.821, G.826 and M.2100 performance analysis
• Frequency and level measurements
• Pulse mask measurements (+ pulse, – pulse, pulse width ratio, pulse amplitude
ratio)
• Jitter measurements to ITU-T standard O.172 (supports pointer jitter tests)
• Delay measurement
• VF tone generation and measurement
• Timeslot activity monitor
• Line rate offset
• Frame data control and monitoring
• Synchronization status messages
• Built-in talk/listen capability

Contents - 1
Contents
1 Getting Started
Initial Switch-on 1-3
Navigating around the displays 1-3
Choosing your HELP Language 1-3
Setting the Date and Time 1-4
Taking Care of your Battery 1-4
Charging your Battery 1-4
Verify Instrument Operation 1-5
Performing Measurements with ProBER 2 1-5
2 Installation
Initial Inspection 2-2
Operating Environment 2-2
Safety Precautions for the User 2-3
Safety Symbols 2-4
Preparation for Use 2-5
Power Requirements 2-5
Connecting the dc Charger to the ac Power Supply 2-6
Connecting to the Network 2-7
User’s Maintenance 2-8
Cabinet Cleaning 2-8
Battery Replacement 2-8
3 Managing the Displays
Accessing the Displays 3-2
Navigating the Displays 3-3
Modifying Display Data 3-4
LEDs 3-5
Signal Loss LED 3-5
Alarm LED 3-5
Error LED 3-6
History LED 3-6
Low Battery LED 3-6
Start/Stop LED 3-6
dc In LED 3-6

Contents - 2
Contents
4 Setting the Interfaces
Connecting to the Network 4-2
Setting Transmit and Receive Interfaces 4-3
AutoSetup 4-5
5 Test Setup Features
Adding Alarms or Errors 5-2
Adding Frequency Offset 5-3
Setting Signaling Bits 5-4
Setting Spare Bits 5-5
Setting Framing Bits 5-6
Generating a VF Tone 5-7
Configuring as a Telephone Handset 5-8
Enabling DTMF Dialling 5-9
6 Making Measurements
Setting Test Timing 6-2
Measuring Errors and Alarms 6-4
Measuring Error Analysis 6-6
Performing a Trouble Scan 6-10
Measuring Round Trip Delay 6-11
Measuring Frequency and Frequency Offset 6-13
Making Pulse Mask Measurements
(Option 001 only) 6-14
Measuring Signal Level
(Option 001 only) 6-15
Measuring Jitter 6-16
Measuring a VF Tone (Using Channel Map) 6-18
Monitoring Signaling Bits 6-20
Monitoring Spare Bits 6-21
Monitoring Framing Bits 6-22
7 Results
Saving Graphs Results 7-2
Recalling Graphs Results 7-3

Contents - 3
Contents
Viewing Graphs Results 7-4
Logging Results to a Printer 7-5
Connecting a 15730B Printer 7-7
Printing a Display 7-8
Logging Results to a PC 7-9
8 Using “Other” Features
Setting Time and Date 8-2
Storing and Titling Instrument Settings 8-3
Recalling Instrument Settings 8-4
Instrument Reset (Cold Start) 8-4
Setting Beep on Error/Alarm 8-5
Setting Backlight Mode 8-6
Setting Display Contrast 8-7
Choosing Local Language Help Messages 8-8
Charging the Battery 8-9
Running Self Test 8-11

Contents - 4
Contents

1
1Getting Started
This chapter is intended to give first-time users a quick over-
view of the main features of ProBER 2. It is a repeat of the
information in the Getting Started booklet, E7580-90019.
Much of the information is repeated later in this manual, but
in greater detail.

1-2
Getting Started
Front Panel Features EXT CLOCK IN input RECEIVE input
TRANSMIT output
dc input.
Power On/Off
(Hold down until
display blanks to
switch off.)
PRINTER (and data) output.
Backlight On/Off
(Hold down to
change contrast.)
Print on demand.
Start/Stop
measurement.
Moves cursor
to Menu field.
Cursor control keys.
Help message for
active field.
(Available in local
language.) Choices associated
with active field.
Reveals more
choices.
Speaker.
Microphone.
Automatically
configures
receivertomatch
input signal.
Menu field Highlighted
(active) field.
Actionsdatachange
and exits edit.
Softkeys
(Choices indicated in
display above keys).

1-3
Getting Started
Initial Switch-on
ProBER 2 is supplied ready to use straight from the box. There is no need to charge the battery. Use the
instrument until the battery is completely exhausted before giving it its first charge.
When you first switch on ProBER 2, you may need to adjust the display contrast by holding down the
display backlight key . This cycles the contrast through its setting range. A quick press of the same key
toggles the backlight on and off.
Navigating around the displays
Before using ProBER 2, you’ll need to know how to select
and change settings. Here’s how to do that.
1. Move within the display area by using the cursor control
keys , , and . Return the cursor to the top of
the display quickly by pressing .
2. In each of the display areas, the field that can be changed
(the active field) is marked by a “highlighted cursor”. In
the example shown here, it’s .
3. Alternative selections/modes for the active field are
accessed using the softkeys below the display.
4. When a field has more than five choices, a softkey
labelled is provided. Press it to reveal more
choices.
Choosing your HELP Language
The HELP messages displayed on the screen can be provided
in English and one other language. The other language
depends on which ProBER 2 option you have ordered.
1. Choose , , , , then
to obtain the local language display, as
shown.
2. Move the cursor down to Language and choose the
language required from the menu.
MENU
Tx + Rx
More
MENU
More Other More
Inst. Config

1-4
Getting Started
Setting the Date and Time
When results are recorded, it is useful to have certain events
time-stamped, for example, Alarms, Error Seconds, etc.
Here’s how to set the date and clock:
1. Choose , , , , , then
to obtain the Time and Date display, as
shown.
2. Move the cursor to Date and enter the correct date using
, , , and . Then press to
action your edits or press to escape.
3. Move the cursor to Time and enter the correct time, as
above.
Taking Care of your Battery
ProBER 2 uses a high-performance Nickel Metal Hydride
(NMH) rechargeable battery pack that may not be fully
charged when you receive the instrument. Whatever the state
of charge, use ProBER 2 until the battery is completely
exhausted before being given its first charge. This ensures
that the battery charge indicator is more accurate. Maximum
accuracy is obtained after the battery has been fully
discharged and recharged twice. Access the indicator by
choosing ,, , . It
takes a few minutes for the indicator to stabilize.
Charging your Battery
To recharge the battery, first fit the appropriate adapter
(supplied) to the charger, as shown. Normally the battery will
be fully charged after 5 hours.
Note that ProBER 2 can be used while the battery is charging.
MENU
More Other More
Time/Date
EDIT ENTER
Cancel
MENU
MORE Other Battery Life

1-5
Getting Started
Verify Instrument Operation
Before making measurements, run a Self Test to check that
ProBER 2 is operating correctly.
1. Choose , , , ,, ,
.
2. Connect the TRANSMIT 75Ω port to the RECEIVE 75Ω
port using the supplied cable.
3. Press to run the self test. After a few
seconds an Overall Status PASS or FAIL message will
be displayed.
4. If the FAIL message is displayed, ProBER 2 should be
returned to an Agilent Service Office for repair. For an up
to date list of offices, see the Agilent Website at URL:
http://www.tm.agilent.com/tmo/TMTop/English/index.html
Performing Measurements with ProBER 2
You’re now ready to perform measurements with ProBER 2. Full details of the measurements and how to
perform them are in this User Reference Manual. The basic procedure is:
1. Select the test interface.
2. Set up the measurement parameters.
3. Perform the measurement.
4. Display or store the results.
The chapters in this User Reference Manual are set out in this order.
The Quick Reference Guide is a handy reminder of how to access the various measurements and features of
ProBER 2.
The Service Manual includes procedures for verifying the performance as well as how to change the battery,
should this be necessary.
MENU
More Other Selftest
Quick Tests
START/STOP

2
2Installation
First-time users, especially, should read this chapter before
using ProBER 2. It contains information that must be
followed to ensure the safety of the operator and the long life
of the instrument.

2-2
Installation
Initial Inspection
WARNING TO AVOID HAZARDOUS ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT PERFORM
ELECTRICAL TESTS WHEN THERE ARE SIGNS OF SHIPPING
DAMAGE TO ANY PORTION OF THE OUTER ENCLOSURE (COVERS,
PANELS, METERS).
Inspect the shipping container for damage. If the shipping container or cushioning
material is damaged, it should be kept until the contents of the shipment have been
checked for completeness and the instrument has been checked both mechanically
and electrically. Procedures for checking electrical operation are given in the
Service Manual. If the contents of the shipment are incomplete or if there is
mechanical damage or defect, notify the nearest Agilent office. If the instrument
does not pass the electrical performance tests given in the Service Manual, notify the
nearest Agilent office. If the shipping container is also damaged, or the cushioning
material shows signs of stress, notify the carrier as well as the nearest Agilent office.
Keep the shipping materials for the carrier’s inspection. The Agilent office will
arrange for repair or replacement without waiting for claim settlement.
A list of Agilent Sales and Service Offices is available through the Agilent Website
at URL:
http://www.tm.agilent.com/tmo/TMTop/English/index.html
Operating Environment
This instrument is designed for Indoor use only.
DO NOT operate the product in an explosive atmosphere or in the presence of
flammable gasses or fumes.
This instrument may be operated in environments within the following limits:
Temperature: 0oC to +50oC (operating);
0oC to +40oC (charging).
Altitude: Up to 3050 m (10,000 ft)

2-3
Installation
Humidity: Up to 95% relative humidity to 40oC, but it should be protected
from temperature extremes which may cause condensation.
CAUTION This instrument is designed for use in Installation Category II and Pollution Degree 2
per IEC 61010 and 60644 respectively.
CAUTION This instrument has an external dc chargerunit which has an autoranging line voltage
input. Ensure the line supply is within the range 100 to 240 Vac.
Safety Precautions for the User
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of
operation, service, and repair of this instrument. Failure to comply with these
precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety
standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Agilent
Technologies, Inc. assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with
these requirements.
In particular, the operator should note the following safety information:
• “Safety Symbols” on page 2-4.
• “Connecting the dc Charger to the ac Power Supply” on page 2-6.
• “Operating Environment” on page 2-2.
• “Battery Replacement” on page 2-6.
• “User’s Maintenance” on page 2-8.
DO NOT operate damaged equipment: Whenever it is possible that the safety
protection features built into this product have been impaired, either through
physical damage, excessive moisture, or any other reason, REMOVE POWER and
do not use the product until safe operation can be verified by service-trained
personnel. If necessary, return the product to an Agilent Sales and Service Office for
service and repair to ensure the safety features are maintained.

2-4
Installation
Safety Symbols
The following symbols on the instrument and in the manual indicate precautions
which must be taken to maintain safe operation of the instrument
The product is marked with this symbol when it is necessary for the
user to refer to the instructions in the supplied documentation.
Indicates the field wiring terminal that must be connected to earth
ground before operating the equipment - protects against electrical
shock in case of fault.
Frame or chassis ground terminal - typically connects to the
equipment’s metal frame.
Alternating current (ac)
Direct current (dc)
Indicates hazardous voltages
Equipment protected throughout by Double Insulation or Reinforced
Insulation, equivalent to Class II of IEC 536.
WARNING Warning denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure, which if not
correctly performed or adhered to could result in injury or loss of life. Do not
proceed beyond a warning until the indicated conditions are fully understood
and met.
CAUTION Caution denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure, which if not correctly
performed or adhered to could result in damage to or destruction of the instrument.
Do not proceed beyond a caution until the indicated conditions are fully understood
and met.

2-5
Installation
Preparation for Use
WARNING If this instrument is not used as specified, the protection provided by the
equipment could be impaired. This instrument must be used in a normal
condition only (in which all means for protection are intact).
Power Requirements
ProBER 2 is powered from an internal 7.2 V dc battery or from an external 15 V dc
charger unit. The external charger requires a power source of 100 to 240 Vac at a
frequency between 47 and 63 Hz (nominal).
Total power consumption of ProBER 2 is 22.5 VA (maximum).
Battery Power
The rechargeable battery (Part No. E7580-60010) will typically power ProBER 2
for more than 8 hours with the backlight off and Bit Error measurement mode
selected.
Charging the Battery
ProBER 2 uses a high-performance Nickel Metal Hydride (NMH) rechargeable
battery that may not be fully charged when you receive the instrument. Whatever the
state of charge, use ProBER 2 until the battery is completely exhausted before
giving it its first charge. This will ensure better accuracy from the battery charge
indicator, see “Charging the Battery” on page 8-9.
To recharge the battery, plug in the charger using the appropriate adapter (supplied).
Normally the battery will be fully charged after 5 hours. In exceptional circum-
stances where the battery may have become deeply discharged, a charge time of
24 hours may be required. Note that ProBER 2 can be used while the battery is
charging.