Axtrinet APG4 User manual

Ethernet Packet Generator
USER GUIDE
APG-UG-V2-1 1 8 February 2018
Ethernet Packet Generator
USER GUIDE
Version 2.1
APG4 APG8 APG200 APG208

Ethernet Packet Generator
USER GUIDE
APG-UG-V2-1 2 8 February 2018
Software Revisions
This document applies to the following software revisions:
APG Unit Firmware
Version 2.1
APG Processing Core
Version 6.010E
APG Control Interface
Version 2.1
Revision History
Date
Version
Changes
4 July 2016
0.4
Restricted Customer Release
Missing Linux installation information
11 August 2016
1.0
General release
Added Linux Installation (Section 2.3)
Modified 10GBase-T SFP limitations (Section 3.1.1)
Modified Front Panel LED behaviour (Section 3.1.3.1)
Added File-Save (Section 6.3.1)
Added Tools-Upgrade (Section 6.3.8)
3 November 2016
1.1
Added APG200
7 June 2017
2.0
Updated FCC statement
Added Port Topology changes (Sections 3.1.2 and 5.3),
including 40Gbps / 4x10Gbps support on QSFP+
interfaces.
Added Burst Mode (Section 6.5.1)
Added Packet/Second Mode (Section 6.5.1)
Added Packet Timestamps (Section 6.5.3)
Added Deep Packet Capture (Section 6.9)
Added 'Save to PCAP' (Section 6.9)
5 September 2017
2.0.2
Added Capture Buffer limits (Section 5.5)
Added Transmit Frame Length limits (Section 6.5.1)
Modified Capture Control description (Section 6.8.3)
8 February 2018
2.1
Added Save/Load Configuration (Section 6.3.2 & 6.3.3)
Local capture buffer sizes increased to 64KB (10Gbps),
and 256KB (40Gbps) (Sections 5.5 & 6.9)

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USER GUIDE
APG-UG-V2-1 3 8 February 2018
Document Conventions
INFORMATION:
Additional information to clarify functionality or usability
WARNING:
Clarification of unexpected or restricted functionality
CRITICAL:
Unit failure - contact Axtrinet for further support
Disclaimers
Axtrinet retains the right to make changes to this document at any time, without notice. The
information in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable. Axtrinet does not warrant
the accuracy or completeness of the information, text, graphics or other items contained within
this document.
Axtrinet provides the software and the documentation "as is" without warranties of any kind.
Axtrinet disclaims all warranties and representations of any kind relating to products, software
or services provided hereunder, whether express, implied, statutory, including without
limitation the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, accuracy,
or non-infringement of third party rights.
Axtrinet does not warrant that the software will in every case process all data correctly, or that
operation of the products, including software, will be uninterrupted, free from error, or secure.
The disclaimers in this section will not apply to the extent prohibited by applicable law.
The software is not designed, intended, or certified for use in components of systems intended
for the operation of weapons, weapons systems, nuclear installations, means of mass
transportation, aviation, medical systems, devices, implants, or equipment, pollution control,
hazardous substances management, or for any other dangerous application in which the failure
of the products could create a situation where bodily injury or death may occur. The use of the
software in any such application is solely at your own risk.
Copyright Statement
Copyright © 2016-2018 Xentech Solutions Limited, all rights reserved. The information
contained in this document is the property of Xentech Solutions Limited. No part of this
publication shall be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means without the
prior written permission of Xentech Solutions Limited.
Trademarks
Axtrinet is a trading name and registered trademark of Xentech Solutions Limited, registered
in the UK.
Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation, registered in the
U.S. and other countries.
Wireshark is a registered trademark of the Wireshark Foundation.

Ethernet Packet Generator
USER GUIDE
APG-UG-V2-1 4 8 February 2018
Preface
About This Document
This document describes the Axtrinet Packet Generator hardware, the installation procedure,
and the User Manual for the APG Control Interface. It contains the following sections:
Section
Description
1. INTRODUCTION
Key features and benefits of the Axtrinet Ethernet
Packet Generators
2. INSTALLATION
Installation procedures for the Microsoft™ Windows™
and Linux USB drivers and Control Interface
3. HARDWARE INTERFACES
Physical properties of the unit
4. MANAGEMENT INTERFACES
Introduction to the Management Interfaces of the unit
5. TEST ENVIRONMENT & CONCEPT
Introduction to Ethernet packet generation, packet
structures and control
6. CONTROL INTERFACE
Detailed guide to the APG Control Interface
Related Documentation
[1] APG-GSG Axtrinet APG Getting Started Guide
[2] APG-TCL-UG Axtrinet APG TCL API Guide
[3] APG-HDR Axtrinet APG Header Definitions
[4] APG-SW-TC Axtrinet APG Software License Terms And Conditions
Visit www.axtrinet.com/documentation for the latest documentation.
Glossary
API Application Programming Interface
FCS Frame Checksum
IBG Inter-Burst Gap
IFG Inter-Frame Gap
pps Packets per Second
QSFP+ Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable (40Gbps)
SFD Start-of-Frame Delimiter
SFP Small Form-Factor Pluggable (1Gbps)
SFP+ Small Form-Factor Pluggable (10Gbps)
TCL Tool Command Language
USB Universal Serial Bus

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Contents
1. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 6
1.1 Main Features ....................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Benefits................................................................................................................ 6
1.3 Safety Information................................................................................................. 7
1.4 Care of the Product................................................................................................ 7
1.5 Environmental....................................................................................................... 8
1.6 Conformance ........................................................................................................ 8
1.7 Limited Hardware Warranty .................................................................................... 9
1.8 Software Licences and Support................................................................................ 9
1.9 Contact Details.....................................................................................................10
2. INSTALLATION ................................................................................................. 11
2.1 Box Contents .......................................................................................................11
2.2 Minimum System Requirements .............................................................................11
2.3 Linux Installation ..................................................................................................12
2.4 Windows Installation .............................................................................................13
2.5 Connecting the Hardware ......................................................................................14
2.6 Testing the Installation..........................................................................................15
2.7 Setting the IP Address...........................................................................................16
3. HARDWARE INTERFACES .................................................................................. 17
3.1 Front Panel Interfaces ...........................................................................................17
3.2 Rear Panel Interfaces ............................................................................................20
3.3Physical Specifications...........................................................................................21
4. MANAGEMENT INTERFACES .............................................................................. 22
4.1 APG Control Interface............................................................................................22
4.2TCL Scripting .......................................................................................................22
5. TEST ENVIRONMENT & CONCEPTS .................................................................... 23
5.1 Definitions ...........................................................................................................23
5.2 Unit Configuration.................................................................................................24
5.3 Port Topology.......................................................................................................24
5.4 Transmit Path ......................................................................................................25
5.5 Receive Path ........................................................................................................27
6. CONTROL INTERFACE ....................................................................................... 29
6.1 Running the Control Interface ................................................................................29
6.2 Overview .............................................................................................................29
6.3 Menu Bar.............................................................................................................30
6.4 Connection Panel ..................................................................................................37
6.5 Stream Configuration Panel ...................................................................................40
6.6 Control Panel .......................................................................................................43
6.7 Counter Panel ......................................................................................................44
6.8 Port Status Window ..............................................................................................45
6.9 Capture Data Display ............................................................................................48
6.10 Sliders ................................................................................................................48

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USER GUIDE
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1.INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an Axtrinet™ APG Ethernet Packet Generator.
The Axtrinet APG Ethernet Packet Generators provide compact and affordable 40Gbps and
10Gbps Ethernet Packet Generator/Analysers with a simple-to-use Control Interface and an
open TCL API for third party scripting.
Ideally suited to applications in R&D, Test and Manufacturing environments, and 'on the road'
with Field Sales and Application Engineers, the Axtrinet APG Ethernet Packet Generators allow
reliable and affordable development and testing of:
Ethernet network equipment such as switches, routers, firewalls and network monitoring
devices
Data storage equipment with 10Gbps and 40Gbps Ethernet interfaces
Specialist devices such as FPGA accelerator NIC cards and offload appliances
Ethernet infrastructure installations encompassing cabling and switches
1.1 MAIN FEATURES
Highly configurable Ethernet Packet Generation
Full wire-speed operation on all ports
Industry standard QSFP+ and SFP+ ports
Real-time packet counts and error detection
Packet Capture for post-test analysis
Simple to use Control Interface for configuration and control
Clear LED status indication for unit operation and Ethernet traffic generation/reception
USB 2.0 port for easy set up and local management and 10/100Mbps Ethernet LAN
connection for flexible remote management
1.2 BENEFITS
Low cost allows multiple units to be deployed in a development environment –one per
desk
Easy to set up and use. Avoids the need for complex vendor specific programming skills
Ideal for integration into a manufacturing test environment using TCL scripting interface
Flexible choices of interfaces allows use with different speeds and media types, maximising
the investment across multiple projects
Small size, 1U high (44mm) and 146mm wide, for desk-top or rack shelf mounting (1/3
rack width)

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1.3 SAFETY INFORMATION
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, personal injury, or damage to the
product, carefully read this safety information before attempting to install
or use the product.
In addition, follow all generally accepted safety practices and procedures
for working with and near electricity.
The product has been designed in accordance with the European standard publication
EN 61010-1:2010, and left the factory in a safe condition.
1.3.1 External Connections
To prevent injury or death, only use the power adapter and cord supplied
with the product.
To prevent injury, ensure that light or laser light sources (eg from SFPs
and QSFPs) are extinguished during connection or disconnection to optical
fibre inputs. Never direct an optical source towards a naked eye.
1.3.2 Environment
To prevent injury or death, do not use in wet or damp conditions, or near
explosive gas or vapour.
To prevent damage to the Packet Generator, use and store in the
recommended environment:
Temperature
Humidity
Altitude
Operating:
0°C - +40°C
5% to 90% RH
(non-condensing)
2000m
Storage:
-20°C - +55°C
1.4 CARE OF THE PRODUCT
The Axtrinet Packet Generator contains no user-serviceable parts. Repair and servicing require
specialised test equipment and must only be performed by Axtrinet. There may be a charge
for these services unless covered by the Axtrinet one year warranty.
Use a soft damp cloth to clean the Axtrinet Packet Generator.
Do not allow liquids to enter the product casing, as this may cause damage
to the electronics inside.
Do not tamper with or dismantle the Packet Generator.
Internal damage may affect performance and void the warranty.
Do not block the air vents at the front of the Packet Generator or the fan
exhaust at the rear. Overheating may affect the performance and damage
the internal electronics.
Do not insert any objects through the air vents.
Internal interference may damage the internal electronics.

Ethernet Packet Generator
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1.5 ENVIRONMENTAL
Disposal of Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment
When an Axtrinet Packet Generator reaches the end of its useful life, Axtrinet
will arrange the responsible recycling of returned products. Where the
customer wishes to return the unit to Axtrinet, the customer will be responsible
for shipping the unit back to our facility. Before returning the unit, contact
Axtrinet Customer Services at [e-mail] for more information.
1.6 CONFORMANCE
1.6.1 CE Notice
The product meets the intent of the EMC directive 2014/30/EU and is designed
and certified to EN61326-1:2013 Class A Emissions and Basic Immunity
standard.
This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EU Council
Directive 2014/30/EU on the approximation of the laws of the Member States
relating to electromagnetic compatibility. Axtrinet cannot accept responsibility
for any failure to satisfy the protection requirements resulting from a non-
recommended modification of the product.
The limits for Class A equipment were derived for commercial and industrial
environments to provide reasonable protection against interference with
licensed communication equipment.
Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product
may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take
adequate measures.
The product meets the intent of the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and has
been designed to meet EN 61010-1:2010 Safety requirements for electrical
equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use.
1.6.2 FCC Notice
This equipment is intended for use solely as industrial test equipment, and is
therefore exempt under Section 15.103(c) exemption rules.
However, this equipment has been verified to comply with the limits for a Class
A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 (CFR 47) of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will
be required to correct the interference at their own expense.

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USER GUIDE
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1.7 LIMITED HARDWARE WARRANTY
Axtrinet warrants upon delivery, and for a period of one year unless otherwise stated from the
date of delivery, that the product will be free from defects in material and workmanship.
Axtrinet shall not be liable for a breach of the warranty if the defect has been caused by wilful
damage, negligence, abnormal working conditions or failure to follow Axtrinet's written advice
on the storage, installation, commissioning, use or maintenance of the product; or if the
Customer alters or repairs the product without the written consent of Axtrinet.
The maximum liability of Axtrinet under this warranty is limited to the purchase price of the
product covered by the warranty.
EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY PROVIDED ABOVE OR AS REQUIRED BY LAW, THE WARRANTIES
AND REMEDIES STATED ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHERS, ORAL OR
WRITTEN, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. ANY OR ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, INCLUDING IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-
INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD PARTY RIGHTS ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED. AXTRINET SHALL NOT
UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE LIABLE TO ANY PERSON FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL,
INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES
RESULTING FROM USE OR MALFUNCTION OF THE PRODUCT, LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUES
OR COSTS OF REPLACEMENT GOODS, EVEN IF AXTRINET IS INFORMED IN ADVANCE OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Should a product fail to perform as described above within the warranted period, it will be
repaired or replaced with the same or functionally equivalent product by Axtrinet, at its
discretion, free of charge provided you: (1) return the product to a Axtrinet designated repair
facility with shipping charge prepaid or by using the Returns Label provided, and (2) provide
Axtrinet with proof of the original date of purchase.
Prior to returning any defective product, the end customer or the reseller from whom the end
customer originally purchased the product must obtain a Return Materials Authorisation (RMA)
number from Axtrinet. Unless otherwise agreed, all defective products should be returned to
Axtrinet with shipping charges prepaid. Axtrinet will not accept collect shipments.
Repaired or replacement products will be returned to you with shipping charges prepaid.
Replacement products may be refurbished or contain refurbished materials. If Axtrinet, by its
sole determination, is unable to repair or replace the defective product, it will refund the
depreciated purchase price of the product.
An Extended Hardware Warranty is available for purchase; please contact Axtrinet or your
reseller for more information.
1.8 SOFTWARE LICENCES AND SUPPORT
See the Axtrinet APG Software License Terms & Conditions [4].
Email based software support is included in the purchase price for the first 12 months after
delivery. Extended Software Support is available for purchase; please contact Axtrinet or your
reseller for more information.

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1.9 CONTACT DETAILS
Technical assistance is available from Axtrinet at the following address:
Address:
Xentech Solutions
Suite 6 Stanta Business Centre
3 Soothouse Spring
St Albans
AL3 6PF
UK
Phone:
[phone]
Email:
Technical Support:
Sales:
[e-mail]
[email protected]
Web Site:
www.axtrinet.com