VeEX VEPAL CX350S-D3.1 User manual

CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 1 of 109

Table of Contents
1.0 About this User Manual
2.0 Product Introduction
3.0 Safety Information
4.0 Basic Operation
4.1 Compact Platform Overview
4.2 Keypad
4.3 Touch-Screen Display
4.4 Battery
4.5 Connector Panels
4.5.1 Test Ports
4.5.2 Utility Ports
5.0 Home Screen and Menu
5.1 Screen Layout
5.2 Screen Icons
6.0 Setup
6.1 Channel Tables and Locations
6.1.1 Channel Tables
6.1.2 Locations
6.1.3 Test Point Compensation
7.0 Test Applications
7.1 Single Channel Measurement
7.1.1 Analog Channel Measurements
7.1.2 Digital Channel Measurements
7.1.3 Constellation Measurements
7.2 Tilt Analysis
7.3 System Scan
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 2 of 109

7.4 Spectrum Analysis
7.4.1 Setup
7.4.2 Amplitude Measurements
7.4.3 Ingress Measurements
7.4.3.1 Forward Path Ingress
7.4.3.2 Reverse Path Ingress
7.5 Cable Modem
7.5.1 Setup
7.5.2 Cable Modem Results - DOCSIS 3.0
7.5.3 Cable Modem Results - DOCSIS 3.1/OFDM
7.6 Upstream Signal Generator (USG)
7.7 Installation Check
7.8 Advanced Tools
7.8.1 Return Path Analysis
7.8.1.1 RP Level Measurements
7.8.1.2 RP Constellation Measurements
7.8.1.3 RP Measurement and Troubleshooting
7.8.2 Sweep Operations
7.8.3 Remote Operations
7.8.4 R-Server
7.8.5 RP Balancing
7.8.6 TDR
7.8.6.1 Principles of Operation
7.8.6.2 Setup
7.8.6.3 Operation
7.8.6.4 TDR Profile
7.8.6.5 Typical Fault Displays
7.8.7 DS1
8.0 Tools
8.1 IP Tools
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 3 of 109

8.1.1 Setup
8.1.2 IP Connection Status
8.1.3 Ping
8.1.4 Trace Route
8.2 NetWiz
8.2.1 Net Wiz Setup
8.2.2 Net Wiz Results
8.3 WiFiWiz
8.3.1 WiFi Procedure
8.4 Advanced
8.4.1 Fiber Scope
8.4.1.1 Automatic Focus Detection and Analysis
8.4.1.2 Main Advantages of Automatic Focus Detection
8.4.1.3 The Importance of Fiber Connector Inspection
8.4.1.4 Fiber Connectors and Test Gear Vulnerabilities
8.4.1.5 About the DI-1000 Fiber Inspection Scope
8.4.1.6 Fiber Connector Inspection Setup
8.4.1.7 Capture Tab (View)
8.4.1.8 Captured Files Tab
8.4.2 Optical Power Meter (OPM)
8.4.2.1 Setting Pass/Fail Limits
8.4.3 WiFi Spectrum Analyzer
8.4.4 Data Card
8.4.5 WiFi inSSIDer
8.4.6 OTDR Viewer
8.5 Web Browser
9.0 Utilities
9.1 About
9.2 Screen
9.3 Bluetooth
9.4 Power
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 4 of 109

9.5 Backlight
9.6 Global
9.7 Date and Time
9.8 Remote Access
10.0 File Management
10.1 File Manager: Working with Saved Results, Profiles, Images
11.0 Setup - Main Menu
12.0 ReVeal Software
13.0 Warranty and Software
14.0 Product Specification
15.0 Certification and Declarations
16.0 About VeEX
Go back to top
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 5 of 109

1.0 About This User Manual
Every effort was made to ensure that the information contained in this user manual is accurate. Information is subject to change
without notice and we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In case of discrepancy, the web version takes
precedence over any printed literature.
(c) Copyright 2006-2016 VeEX Inc. All rights reserved. VeEX, VePAL are registered trademarks of VeEX Inc and/or its affiliates in
the the USA and certain other countries. All trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective companies.
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted electronically or otherwise without written permission from VeEX Inc.
This device uses software either developed by VeEX Inc or licensed by VeEX Inc from third parties and is the confidential and
proprietary of VeEX Inc. The software is protected by copyright and contains trade secrets of VeEX Inc or VeEX's licensors. The
purchaser of this device agrees that it has received a license solely to use the software as embedded in the device, and the
purchaser is prohibited from copying, reverse engineering, decompiling, or disassembling the software.
This user manual is suitable for novice, intermediate, and experienced users and is intended to help you successfully use the
features and capabilities of the VePAL CX350 test set. It is assumed that you have basic computer experience and skills, and are
familiar with IP and telecommunication concepts, terminology, and safety.
For more technical resources, visit VeEX Inc web site at www.veexinc.com.
If you need assistance or have questions related to the use of this product, call or email our customer care department for
customer support. Before contacting our customer care department, you must have your product serial number and software
version ready. Please go to Settings for details on locating your unit serial number in the menus or locate the serial number on
the back of the chassis. Please provide this number when contacting VeEX customer service.
Customer Care:
Phone: +1 510 651 0505
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.veexinc.com
Go back to top Go back to TOC
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 6 of 109

2.0 Product Introduction
The VeEX™ VePal CX350s-D3.1 is a next generation test solution for analog and digital cable TV networks. The unit is a
lightweight, rugged and weather resistant instrument featuring Analog and Digital signal level meter capabilities and is equipped
with enhanced spectrum, forward and return path analysis functions. The unit can be equipped with an optional DOCSIS 3.0/3.1
Cable Modem to validate DOCSIS and EuroDOCSIS-based networks. Equipped with an Upstream QAM Signal Generator (USG),
the unit is able to perform advanced reverse path QAM analysis.
Go back to top Go back to TOC
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 7 of 109

3.0 Safety Information
Safety precautions should be observed during all phases of operation of this instrument. The instrument has been designed to
ensure safe operation however please observe all safety markings and instructions. Do not operate the instrument in the
presence of flammable gases or fumes or any other combustible environment. VeEX Inc. assumes no liability for the customer's
failure to comply with safety precautions and requirements.
Go back to top Go back to TOC
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 8 of 109

4.0 Basic Operation
4.1 Compact Platform Overview
4.2 Keypad
4.3 Touch-Screen Display
4.4 Battery
4.5 Connector Panels
4.5.1 Test Ports
4.5.2 Utility Ports
4.1 Compact Platform Overview
Go back to top Go back to TOC
4.2 Keypad
The keypad comprises the following keys:
Power key: The unit is powered on and off from the red key on the keypad. The button is recessed to prevent accidental
power on. Press the key for 3-5 seconds to turn the unit on. To turn off the unit, press the power key for at least 2
seconds. If the unit does not respond, holding the power key down by more than 10 seconds will force the unit to switch
off.
Save key: Saves test results in the unit's memory. If the measurement is still running, it will provide a snap shot the
moment the key is pressed. The Save function provides automatic storage with automatic naming and time stamping
function.
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 9 of 109

History key: The history key resets any blinking LED due to a history condition.
Help key: The help key brings the user to the online help, regardless of the current user interface location of the unit.
Lock key: Locks the keypad
Home key: Bring the unit to its home menu regardless of its location on the user interface.
Arrow key: The arrow key moves the cursor in any of the four supported directions (left, right, up, down). The arrow key
works in conjunction with the Enter and Escape keys.
Enter key: The enter key provides an enter sequence to the user interface. It is used in non touch screen operation mode
to enter menus and functions.
Escape key: The escape key provides an escape sequence to the user interface. It is used in non touch-screen operation
mode to escape menus and functions.
Go back to top Go back to TOC
4.3 Touch-Screen Display
The LCD supports touch-screen operation. To operate the touch-screen, use the stylus located in the top cover to navigate the
menus and tabs. The unit can also be used in a non touch screen mode i.e. use the arrow, enter, and escape keys to navigate.
The location of the cursor on the screen is indicated by a focus state. The focus state varies depending on the function or
section of the test set. Please observe the following precautions:
Never use excessive pressure on the touch-screen as this may damage its functionality
Never use sharp objects such as a pen, screwdriver etc. as this may damage the surface
Clean the surface of the touch screen using a soft cloth and mild detergent only. Do not use alcohol
Go back to top Go back to TOC
4.4 Battery
The VePAL300 chassis is equipped with an intelligent Li-ion rechargeable battery pack which is located in the rear of the unit.
The battery will be partially charged upon delivery, so it is recommended to charge the battery fully before use. Please charge the
battery at room temperature to preserve its life and to obtain maximum charge. The battery is charged during operation provided
the unit is connected to the AC Mains using the supplied AC adapter. Removing the battery, while the unit is powered on is not
recommended - this may result in damage. Remove the rubber cover on the left side to connect the AC Main adapter to the unit.
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 10 of 109

4.5.1 Test Ports
Test Ports: To access the test connectors, please open the top cover.
RF-in "F" Connector, 75 ohms for connection to the CATV network - Provides access to:
Signal Level Meter (SLM) and associated functions
Reverse Path QAM analyzer
Note: Maximum Voltage input is 100VAC, 140VD
Cable Modem:
"F" connector, 75 ohms for connection to the DOCSIS cable modem and standard Upstream Generator function
AUX: "F" connector, 75 ohms for Upstream Generator equipped with Enhanced Forward Error Correction (FEC) capability
4.5.2 Utility Ports:
The Ethernet and USB ports are located on the left and right side of the unit.
RJ45, 10/100Base-T port:
To access the Ethernet port, remove the protective rubber cover on the right hand side of the unit to expose the
connector. Ethernet applications include:
IP connectivity testing
Net Wiz testing
WiFi Wiz testing
Transfer measurement results and test profiles between the instrument and a computer using ReVeal CX software
Upload/download channel tables between the instrument and a computer using ReVeal CX software
Remote control of the instrument using ReVeal CX software (optional)
USB Port:
To access the USB port, remove the protective rubber cover on the left hand side of the unit to expose the connector. The
USB port supports:
Memory drives
WiFi adapter for WiFi testing application
Digital Fiber Inspection Scope
Optical Power Meter
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 12 of 109

5.0 Home Screen and Menu
5.1 Screen Layout
5.2 Screen Icons
5.1 Screen Layout
The Home menu can be accessed at anytime during operation by pressing the Home key on the rubber keypad. The screen is
divided into three presentation areas:
Left: 'V' Icon - Utilities Menu
Setup Main Menu
Middle:
Test Applications specific to the test set:
Single Channel
System Scan
Tilt Analysis
Cable Modem
Spectrum Analysis
Installation Check
TDR
Advanced Tools (to access more advanced features):
Return Path Analysis
Sweep Operations
Ethernet Tools
Remote Operations
R-Server
USG+FEC
RP Balancing
HIP
DS1 Tools
Bottom:
Tbl (Channel Table): Select a channel table to test
Loc (Location): Select Location threshold for particular test
TP (Test Point): Select test point compensation
Each of the menus listed above is described in detail in the relevant sections of this manual. Please refer to the Table of
Contents.
CX350s-D3.1 Home Menu
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 14 of 109

Go back to top Go back to TOC
5.2 Screen Icons
The following icons are displayed and located at the top of the screen:
Power: Indicates if the unit is being powered by the internal Li-ion battery or external AC power. Tap the icon for battery
status if running on battery.
File: Provides File Storage Information.
Home: Provides instant navigation back to the main Home menu screen.
Close: Closes screen and returns user to the previous screen.
QAM unlocked: Indicates QAM lock has not been achieved on the digital carrier.
QAM lock: Indicates QAM lock has been achieved on the digital carrier.
(Note: QAM lock is required to make Constellation measurements)
USG+FEC: On or Off.
Bluetooth: Bluetooth detected.
Data/GPS card: Data/GPS card detected.
Screen Lock
WiFi: Unit is connected to WiFi.
Equalizer Off
CX350s-D3.1 Screen Icons
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 15 of 109

6.0 Setup
6.1 Channel Tables and Locations
6.1.1 Channel Tables
6.1.2 Locations
6.1.3 Test Point Compensation
Test mode, test port/s and network settings are required prior to performing any measurements or applications.
Go back to top Go back to TOC
6.1 Channel Tables and Locations
6.1.1 Channel Tables
The unit requires Channel Tables to perform measurements in Single Channel mode. By default, the unit is preloaded with
several channel tables, according to industry standard Annex A, B, and C systems.
Selecting a Channel Table
Tap on next to Tbl to select a table from the drop-down menu.
Channel Table Selection
Go back to top Go back to TOC
Editing or Creating New Channel Tables
To create new channel tables or edit existing ones, tap on the following:
Setup
Main Menu
Channel Table ( box)
Manage (from drop-down menu)
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 17 of 109

Channel Table Selection
Channel Table Selection
Select a table and press the Edit button .
Channel Table Editing
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 18 of 109

Creating Channel Tables with ReVeal CX300
Alternatively, the channel tables can be created and managed using ReVeal CX300 PC software, which is a standard accessory.
Additional tables can be created from a blank table or from existing templates. The test set and the PC software can exchange
the tables for easy update. Please refer to the ReVeal CX300 manual on www.veexinc.com for more details.
Go back to top Go back to TOC
6.1.2 Locations
Location settings are pre-set measurement thresholds for analog and digital carriers. By default, the unit is pre-loaded with
Groundblock, Set Top Box and Tap locators. When performing a measurement, one of these preset locations can be selected by
tapping the check box.
Location Selection
The measurement thresholds for the preset locations can be edited via the Setup icon and Main menu.
The manage function allows the user to modify the threshold settings for Analog and Digital Channels. Once the new value has
been entered, apply the threshold settings using the check box.
Location Editor
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 19 of 109

Go back to top Go back to TOC
6.1.3 Test Point Compensation
Test point compensation allows the loss at a certain test point to be automatically compensated. When performing a
measurement, one of these preset test points can be selected by tapping the check box. The test set stores 10 sets of TP
compensation value by name.
Forward Comp: applies to all Downstream related measurements, such as Single Channel, Installation Check, and Cable
Modem Downstream Levels.
Return Comp: applies only to Cable Modem Upstream Transmit Levels.
TP Editor
TP Selection
CX350s-D3.1 e-Manual D07-00-102P RevA01
Page 20 of 109
Table of contents
Other VeEX Measuring Instrument manuals