Black Box SCAN-LAN Vt TS Series User manual

1000 Park Drive • Lawrence, PA 15055-1018 • 724-746-5500 • Fax [phone]
© Copyright 2000. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.

CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
INFORMATION
Order toll-free in the U.S. 24 hours 7 A.M. Monday to midnight Friday: 877-877-BBOX
FREE technical support 24 hours a day 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax [phone]
Mail order: Bla k Box Corporation 1000 Park Drive Lawrence PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.bla kbox. om • E-mail: info@bla kbox. om
JUNE 2000
TS699A
TS699AE
TS691
TS691E
TS692
TS694
TS695
SCAN-LAN Vt
F1F2F3 F4
ESC
ENTER
AUTOTEST
PRINT
REMOTE
CAL
SETUP
TRAFFIC
LENGTH
WIRE
MAP
QUICK √
100 MHz
EXTEN E
FUNCTIONS
SCAN-LAN Vt
RR

2
SCAN-LAN Vt
Contents
Chapter Page
1. Specifications............................................................................................7
2. Introduction...........................................................................................11
2.1 Packing List.................................................................................11
2.2 Features ......................................................................................12
2.2.1 Testing Features ...........................................................12
2.2.2 Special Features of the SCAN-LAN Vt.........................12
2.2.3 Send Function...............................................................14
2.2.4 LinkTalk Function........................................................15
2.2.5 Performance Module....................................................15
2.3 Battery Information ...................................................................16
2.3.1 Memory Storage ...........................................................16
2.3.2 Charging Mode.............................................................16
2.3.3 Changing the Batteries.................................................17
2.3.4 Using the Rechargeable Battery Eliminator ................17
2.4 Display Conventions...................................................................18
2.4.1 Arrow Keys....................................................................18
2.4.2 Scroll Bars .....................................................................19
2.4.3 Display Contrast Adjustment........................................19
3. Getting Started.......................................................................................20
3.1 Initial Setup ................................................................................20
3.1.1 Setting Up the SCAN-LAN Vt......................................20
3.1.2 NVP Calibration ...........................................................21
3.1.3 Why Do I Need to Set Cable NVP?..............................21
3.2 Typical Test Setup......................................................................22
3.2.1 Basic-Link Testing ........................................................22
3.2.2 Channel Testing............................................................23
3.3 Selecting a Cable Test Standard.................................................24
3.4 Defining Custom Standards .......................................................24
3.5 System Integrity Pre-Test...........................................................26

3
CONTENTS
Chapter Page
4. Autotest...................................................................................................27
4.1 Running Autotest........................................................................27
4.2 Viewing Autotest Results............................................................28
4.2.1 Summary Results ..........................................................29
4.2.2 Marginal Test Results ...................................................29
4.2.3 Detailed Results ............................................................30
4.3 Saving Autotest Results...............................................................30
4.4 LinkTalk .....................................................................................33
4.4.1 Interaction of Talk and Send Functions ......................34
4.4.2 System Integrity Pre-Test.............................................35
5. Quick Check...........................................................................................36
5.1 Running Quick Check................................................................36
5.2 Viewing Quick Check Results ....................................................37
6. Cable Test Descriptions .........................................................................38
6.1 Wire Map....................................................................................38
6.1.1 Running Wire Map.......................................................38
6.1.2 Viewing Wire Map Results ...........................................39
6.2 NEXT..........................................................................................40
6.2.1 Running NEXT ............................................................41
6.2.2 Viewing NEXT Summary Results................................41
6.2.3 Marginal Test Results ...................................................42
6.2.4 Viewing Detailed NEXT Results ..................................42
6.2.5 Viewing a Graph of NEXT Results ..............................43
6.3 Length.........................................................................................44
6.3.1 Running Length Test ...................................................44
6.3.2 Viewing Length Results................................................45
6.4 Attenuation .................................................................................47
6.4.1 Running Attenuation....................................................47
6.4.2 Viewing Attenuation Results ........................................48
6.4.3 Viewing a Graph of Attenuation Results......................49
6.4.4 Marginal Test Results ...................................................49
6.5 ACR.............................................................................................50
6.5.1 Running ACR................................................................50
6.5.2 Viewing ACR Results....................................................51

4
SCAN-LAN Vt
Chapter Page
6.6 Noise ...........................................................................................51
6.6.1 Running Noise..............................................................52
6.6.2 Viewing Noise Results ..................................................53
6.7 Pair Reversal Test.......................................................................53
6.8 Repeatability Test .......................................................................54
6.9 Impedance..................................................................................55
6.10 Cable Toner................................................................................56
6.11 Delay/Delay Skew........................................................................57
6.12 Resistance....................................................................................59
6.12.1 Running Resistance ......................................................59
6.12.2 Viewing Resistance Results...........................................60
6.13 Power Sum NEXT......................................................................61
6.13.1 Viewing Power Sum NEXT Results.............................62
6.13.2 Viewing a Graph of Power Sum NEXT Results ..........63
6.14 Cable Grading.............................................................................63
7. Printing, Uploading, and Viewing Test Results....................................66
7.1 Connecting to a PC or Printer....................................................66
7.1.1 Overview .......................................................................66
7.1.2 Adapter/Connector Information ..................................66
7.2 Printing/Uploading Test Results................................................67
7.2.1 Printing/Uploading a Single Test Report ....................67
7.2.2 Printing/Uploading Multiple Reports..........................67
7.2.3 Printing/Uploading All Reports....................................68
7.2.4 Uploading Detailed NEXT/Attenuation Results..........69
7.2.5 Changing Serial-Port Settings ......................................69
7.3 Deleting Test Reports.................................................................70
7.4 Viewing Saved Test Reports.......................................................71
8. Testing Twisted-Pair Cable....................................................................74
8.1 Types of Twisted-Pair Cable ......................................................74

5
CONTENTS
Chapter Page
8.2 Twisted-Pair Test Descriptions ..................................................75
8.2.1 Wire Map ......................................................................75
8.2.2 Near-End Crosstalk (NEXT) ........................................80
8.2.3 Attenuation ...................................................................85
8.2.4 Length...........................................................................87
8.2.5 Noise .............................................................................92
8.2.6 Impedance ....................................................................93
8.2.7 Resistance......................................................................94
8.3 Testing Tips................................................................................95
8.3.1 Selecting Performance Module (PM) and Cable
Specification..................................................................95
8.3.2 Connecting the Segment Under Test ..........................95
8.3.3 Selecting the Proper Test .............................................96
8.3.4 Interpreting Results......................................................96
8.4 Power Sum NEXT......................................................................97
8.5 Delay/Delay Skew........................................................................99
9. Setup.....................................................................................................101
9.1 Setup Functions........................................................................101
9.2 Changing Setup Parameters.....................................................102
9.2.1 Length Measurement Units........................................102
9.2.2 Fault Threshold ..........................................................103
9.2.3 Noise Threshold .........................................................104
9.2.4 PowerDown Time .......................................................105
9.2.5 Backlight Time............................................................106
9.2.6 Power Frequency ........................................................107
9.2.7 Baud Rate ...................................................................108
9.2.8 Flow Control ...............................................................109
9.2.9 Date .............................................................................110
9.2.10 Time............................................................................111
9.2.11 Audible Tones.............................................................112
9.2.12 Traffic/Noise Tones ....................................................113
9.2.13 Company Name..........................................................114
9.2.14 Circuit Names .............................................................115
9.2.15 Auto Toner..................................................................116
9.2.16 Reset to Defaults .........................................................117
9.2.17 Circuit Names .............................................................118

6
SCAN-LAN Vt
Chapter Page
10. Calibration............................................................................................120
10.1 NVP Calibration .......................................................................120
10.1.1 Using a Known Length of Cable ................................120
10.1.2 Using Manufacturer’s Cable Specifications................121
10.1.3 Why Do I Need to Set Cable NVP?............................122
10.2 Remote-Unit Calibration..........................................................122
10.3 Performance-Module Calibration ............................................124
10.4 Impedance Calibration.............................................................126
10.5 Resistance Calibration ..............................................................127
10.6 Main-Unit Calibration ..............................................................127
11. Ethernet Traffic Analysis......................................................................128
11.1 Running the Traffic Test..........................................................128
11.2 Viewing Traffic Results ............................................................129
12. Self-Test................................................................................................132
Appendix A. Test Standards.....................................................................133
A.1 Installed Link Test Configurations ..........................................133
A.2 Channel Testing .......................................................................133
A.3 Basic Link Testing ....................................................................134
A.4 EIA/TIA TSB-67—Test Limits.................................................135
A.5 ISO/IEC—Test Limits ..............................................................136
A.6 Enhanced Cable Standards—Test Limits ................................138
A.7 IEEE Twisted Pair—Test Limits ..............................................138
A.8 Defining Custom Standards .....................................................143
Appendix B. Common Cable NVP Values...............................................146
Appendix C. Optional Accessories............................................................149
Appendix D. Cable Replacement Procedure............................................150
D.1 General .....................................................................................150
D.2 Equipment ................................................................................150
D.3 Disassembly...............................................................................151
D.4 New Cable Preparation ............................................................152
D.5 Reassembly................................................................................154
D.6 Recalibration.............................................................................156
Glossary ......................................................................................................158

7
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
General
Display: 128 x 64 pixel backlit graphic LCD
Operating Controls: 10-position rotary function selector; Elastomeric
keypad
Audible Alarm: Operator Enabled/Disabled
Compliance: Directive 89/336/EEC per TCF D2D/EMC/CC/128/96
Operating Temperature: 32 to 122°F (0 to 50°C)
Storage Temperature: -4 to +140°F (-20 to +60°C)
Relative Humidity: 10 to 90%, noncondensing
MTBF: >50,000 hours
Size: 9.6 H" x 3.9 W" x 2.5D" (24.4 x 9.9 x 6.4 cm)
Weight: 1 lb., 15 oz. (0.88 kg)
Power
Battery: (8) AA alkaline batteries per unit or (1) NiMH rechargeable battery
pack per unit
Battery Life: 8 to 10 hours continuous use or >800 Autotests (typical)
Low Battery Indicator: Audible alarm plus LCD display
Automatic Power-Down: 2 to 30 minutes (selectable) or disabled
AC/Mains Adapter (Battery Eliminator): 12 to 15 VDC, 300 mA
Input: 120V or 230V ±15%
1. Specifications

8
SCAN-LAN Vt
Output: 60 or 50 Hz
Frequency: 12 or 14 VDC
Lithium Coin Cell (Autotest Results Storage) Life: 2 years
Performance Modules
Performance Module inputs withstand telco ring voltages; 175V peak,
20–60 Hz superimposed on 56 VDC, maximum. They also withstand
electrostatic discharges per IEC 801-2 severity level 4 (8KV contact).
Standard: Modular Plug (TS691 or TS691E)
Optional: Modular Jack (TS692)
Optional: Coax (TS693)
Memory
Test Storage: Storage for 500 Autotest results plus one Traffic Report in
each SCAN-LAN Vt (1000 reports total)
Imprint: Date on all tests
Non-Volatile Memory: Lithium battery-backed memory for setup, test
results, and NVP values
Wire Mapping (Twisted-Pair Wiring Only)
Displays Following Errors: Miswired Pairs, Shorts, Opens, Shorted Pairs,
Crossed Pairs, and Split Pairs. Includes test of shield (if present)
Traffic (Ethernet Only)
Parameters Monitored: % Utilization, % Collisions, Peak Traffic
Other Features: Continuous bar graph to display activity

9
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
Attenuation-to-Crosstalk Ratio
ACR is calculated for each pair over the full frequency range per test
specification selected
Serial Port
Connector: DB9 male (pins)
PC Cable: Null modem, DB9 female (socket) to DB9 female (socket) and
DB25 female serial port pin assignments:
Baud Rate: 1200 to 38,400 bps (selectable)
Format: 8-bit, no parity, 1 stop bit, (8N1)
Flow Control: XON/XOFF, Hardware (CTS/DTR), None
Cable Length
Range: 0 to 2000 ft. (0 to 610 m) twisted pair
Accuracy:
±2 ft. (0.6 m) ±2% ±NVP Uncertainty 0 to 1000 ft. (0 to 304.8 m)
±2 ft. (0.6 m) ±3% ±NVP Uncertainty 1001 to 2000 ft. (305.1 to 610 m)
NVP (Nominal Velocity of Propagation): 0.5 to 0.99%
Cable Fault Types: Shorts, Opens, Intermediate Impedance Anomalies
Number Of Faults: End Of Cable and two Intermediate Anomalies
Fault Threshold: User-defined, 4 to 10% (7% default)
1 No connection
2 Receive data (input)
3 Transmit data (output)
4 Data terminal ready (output)
5 Signal ground
6 No connection
7 No connection
Clear to send (input)
9 No connection
SERIAL PORT
69
51

10
SCAN-LAN Vt
Near-End Crosstalk (NEXT) and Attenuation
• Tests NEXT for all six pair combinations
• Tests NEXT at both ends
• Tests Attenuation of all four pairs one way
Frequency Range: 1 to 100 MHz
NEXT and Attenuation Accuracy: With Modular Plug Performance
Module (TS691 or TS691E), exceeds requirements of TIA TSB-67 for
Level-II Accuracy
Power Sum NEXT
• Tests Power Sum NEXT for all four pairs
• Tests Power Sum NEXT at both ends
Frequency Range: 1 to 100 MHz
Test Limit: Applicable pair-to-pair NEXT limit
Impulse Noise
Counts impulse-noise hits above a user-defined threshold
Threshold: User-defined, 100 to 500 mV peak (260 mV default)
Cable Resistance (Twisted Pair)
Range: 0 Ω to 1000 Ω
Accuracy: ±0.5 Ω (0 to 10 Ω ), ±1 Ω (10 to 20 Ω )
Cable Impedance (Twisted Pair)
Range: 30 Ω to 200 Ω
Accuracy: ±10 Ω at 100 Ω calibration point

11
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
The SCAN-LAN Vt is a testing system that troubleshoots and certifies LAN
cable installations. The SCAN-LAN Vt consists of two handheld units, one
functioning as a main unit, and the other as a remote unit. It also features
LinkTalk voice communications across twisted-pair test links. Each unit has
a built-in microphone and earphone jack.
2.1 Packing List
Contact your supplier if anything is missing or defective.
Description Part Number
(2) SCAN-LAN Vts TS699A
(2) Modular Plug Performance Modules (installed) TS69 or TS69 E
PC Interface Cable –––
AA Alkaline Batteries, 8 for each unit (installed) –––
(2) Battery Eliminators (AC/Mains Adapter) TS694 * (see NOTE)
Carrying Case TS695
User’s Manual –––
NOTE
The Battery Eliminators provided may differ in various countries. See the
optional accessories list in Appendix C.
2. Introduction

12
SCAN-LAN Vt
2.2 Features
2.2.1 T ESTING F
EATURES
•Tests UTP, ScTP, coaxial, STP, and fiberoptic cable.
•Certifies twisted-pair cable up to EIA/TIA 568A Category 5 and ISO/IEC
11801 Class D (100 MHz).
•Performs NEXT, Length, Wire Map, Attenuation, Noise, Traffic,
Impedance, and Resistance tests.
•Performs a preprogrammed set of certification tests when the rotary dial
on the front of the unit is set to “Autotest.”
•Performs enhanced cable tests including Power Sum NEXT, Delay/Delay
Skew, and Cable Grading to test emerging new enhanced data cables.
•Cable Toner enables identification of cable at far end.
2.2.2 S PECIAL F EATURES OF THE SCAN-LAN V T
•Stores up to 1000 Autotest results.
•Graphical user interface on the main and remote units, allowing test
results to be viewed at both ends.
•Backlit LCD display.
•Easy field updates of hardware and software using plug-in Performance
Modules and flash memory.
•Operates using either replaceable AA batteries, AC/Mains power, or a
rechargeable NiMH battery pack.
•Voice communication between main unit and the remote.
The SCAN-LAN Vt’s features, and how they are used, are briefly described
in Figure 2-1.

13
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
Figure 2-1. SCAN-LAN Vt Features.
2- 5 VDC connector to plug in
the ac adapter.
(bottom)
SERIAL PORT cable connection
to upload test reports to a printer
or a computer. Also to download
new firmware.
Rotary dial selects a test or
function.
LCD backlight control. Also
adjusts contrast in conjunction
with the up and down arrows.
Power on and off control.
ESC (Escape) aborts the
current action or returns to
the previous screen.
ENTER selects the choice
that is highlighted.
Up and down arrows scroll
through menus and change cable
test standards. Also adjusts contrast
in conjunction with the backlight
control button.
Function buttons (F , F2, F3,
and F4) are software defined.
Their operation depends on the
selected function, as indicated by
the labels in the display.
Performance Module plugs in for user-
selectable cable test configurations.
ESC
ENTER
F1 F2 F3 F4
SERIAL PORT +
00 MHz
EXTENDED
FUNCTIONS
QUICK
AUTOTEST
WIRE
MAP
REMOTE
TRAFFIC
PRINT
CAL
SETUP
LENGTH
ESC ENTER
F1 F2 F3 F4
00 MHz
EXTENDED
FUNCTIONS
QUICK
AUTOTEST
WIRE
MAP
REMOTE
TRAFFIC
PRINT
CAL
SETUP
LENGTH
ESC ENTER
F1 F2 F3 F4
Link Talk

14
SCAN-LAN Vt
Tests and functions accessible using the rotary dial are described below.
Figure 2-2. Function Dial.
Dial Position Function
AUTOTEST Performs a preprogrammed set of tests, which are required to
certify a cable installation.
PRINT Print, view, or upload to PC, Autotest, or Traffic reports.
CAL Calibrate cable NVP, Performance Module, and Remote.
SETUP Changes operation characteristics including Time/Date.
EXTENDED Individual cable tests, unit self-test, pair-reversal test, repeatability
FUNCTIONS test, and flash memory download.
REMOTE Puts the SCAN-LAN Vt into remote mode.
TRAFFIC Monitors traffic activity on an Ethernet network.
LENGTH Determines the cable length and up to two intermediate anomalies.
WIRE MAP Determines pin-to-pin continuity, shield continuity, and split pairs.
QUICK √Performs an abbreviated Autotest test sequence as a fast cable-
installation check.
2.2.3 S END F UNCTION
The Send function transmits on-screen test results to the unit at the other
end. To use the Send function, simply complete the test, and when the
EXTENDED
FUNCTIONS
QUICK
AUTOTEST
WIRE
MAP
REMOTE
TRAFFIC
PRINT
CAL
SETUP
LENGTH

15
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
screen you want to transmit is displayed, press the corresponding soft
function key. For example, in the figure below, you would press F1 to send
the results.
2.2.4 L INK T ALK F UNCTION
The LinkTalk function allows two-way voice communication between the
main unit and the remote. LinkTalk uses a microphone embedded in the
front of each unit and an earphone connceted to the jack on each unit’s
side. See Chapter 4 , Autotest, for details.
2.2.5 P
ERFORMANCE M ODULE
The SCAN-LAN Vt is designed with removable performance modules for
attaching to various cable types and cable connectors. The key to the SCAN-
LAN Vt’s high measurement accuracy is using the proper performance
module.
To remove a module, loosen the thumbscrews on either side of the module
until the screws are free of the retainers. Hold the module on either side
and slide it out of the opening (refer to Figure 2-3).
To install a module, slide it into the opening until the screws rest against
the retainers. Hand-tighten the screws until the module is securely
attached.
CAUTION
Avoid damaging the SCAN-LAN Vt’s case. Tighten the screws evenly
using finger pressure only. Make sure to either turn both screws
simultaneously or alternately in small increments. The module is
designed to be installed or removed without tools.
F1 F2 F3 F4

16
SCAN-LAN Vt
Figure 2-3. Module Removal.
BEWARE OF STATIC ELECTRICITY!
The SCAN-LAN Vt contains static-sensitive electronics inside the main
body. Use appropriate precautions when removing and installing
performance modules.
2.3 Battery Information
The SCAN-LAN Vt handheld is shipped with 8 AA alkaline batteries per
unit.
Two rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery eliminators are also
included.
A low battery message appears on the LCD screen when it is time to replace
the batteries. When this message appears, you have 60 seconds to save your
test results before the unit automatically powers down.
2.3.1 M
EMORY S TORAGE
The SCAN-LAN Vt’s memory is powered from an internal, long-life lithium
cell. Stored test results and setup conditions will therefore be saved when
you replace the AA alkaline batteries or rechargeable battery eliminator.
2.3.2 C HARGING M ODE
When the AC/Mains adapter is used and the SCAN-LAN Vt is powered
“off,” the unit goes into a “sleep mode.” With the NiMH re-chargeable
battery eliminator installed, the unit goes into a Recharge mode. A fully
discharged battery eliminator will take approximately 10 to 12 hours to
charge to full capacity. To resume testing, press the Power button.
EXTENDED
FUNCTIONS
LENGTH
PRINT
QUICKAUTOTEST
WIRE
MAP
SETUP
CAL
F1F2F3F4
100MHz
NOISE
TRAFFIC
ENTER
ESC
√
Per ormance Module

17
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2.3.3 C HANGING THE B ATTERIES
To change the SCAN-LAN Vt’s batteries:
1.Remove the battery-compartment cover on the back (refer to
Figure 2-4) by pushing the tab in and then up.
2.Remove the batteries.
3.Install new batteries. Pay attention to the polarity markings on the
inside of the battery well.
NOTE
The FAIL LED on the Remote Unit blinks continuously when the battery is
low.
Figure 2-4. Battery Replacement.
2.3.4 U SING THE R ECHARGEABLE B ATTERY E LIMINATOR
When installing the battery eliminator, insert the battery eliminator with
the label side out.
The battery eliminator is charged by plugging in the external power supply
while the SCAN-LAN Vt is OFF. To charge the batteries, turn the SCAN-
LAN Vt OFF and connect the external power supply. The display will show
“SCAN-LAN Vt,” the serial number of the unit, the date, the time, and the
message “RECHARGING.” When the battery is fully charged (up to 14
hours), the “RECHARGING” indication will go away. Note that the SCAN-
LAN Vt will not charge the batteries when it is ON.
2.
1.

18
SCAN-LAN Vt
One of the advantages of a NiMH battery is that it does not have the “memory”
characteristics of a NiCd battery . You do not need to completely discharge or
cycle the battery to maintain full capacity.
Like NiCd batteries, the NiMH batteries do self-discharge over time. After
storage for several weeks, they may have only a fraction of their initial
charge. The rate of self-discharge is dependent on temperature: Self-
discharge is slower at lower temperatures. We recommend charging the
battery pack the night before any planned use.
Note that the “RECHARGING” message should ALWAYS appear for at
least a short period at the beginning of the charging process. If the battery
pack is completely charged, the message will then go away. If the unit is
turned OFF while using the external power supply and the message
“RECHARGING” does not immediately appear, the charging function is
not working properly. Contact your supplier.
If you have any problems recharging the battery pack, or you have any
other problems or questions, call your supplier.
2.4 Display Conventions
2.4.1 A RROW K EYS
An up/down arrows symbol ↑↓ (see detail in Figure 2-5) appears next to an
item on the LCD display to indicate that you can use the arrow keys to
make a different selection. For example, in the figure below, the arrows
appear next to the word “Link” on the screen.
Figure 2-5. Up/Down Arrows.
F1 F2 F3 F4

19
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
To change a selection,
1.Press the up or down arrow keys to scroll through the available
selections.
2.When the choice you want is highlighted, press SAVE (F4) or ENTER.
2.4.2 S CROLL B ARS
When there are more selections available than can fit on one SCAN-LAN Vt
screen, scroll bars will appear. For example, in Figure 2-6, the scroll bar
appears above “Save.”
To use the scroll bar, press the arrow keys to move the scroll-bar indicator
as well as to highlight a new selection.
Figure 2-6. Sample of Scroll Bar.
2.4.3 D ISPLAY C ONTRAST A DJUSTMENT
Hold down the Backlight button and press the arrow keys to set the screen
contrast for comfortable viewing.