Atec Acterna-DSAM-6000 - Manual (Page 4)

Comprehensive Analog and Digital Testing on the Forward Path
The DSAM architecture incorporates analog and digital testing into a single user
interface. This allows the technician to select a specific channel or a scan of
channels without having to differentiate between analog or digital video, DOCSIS
high-speed data, or voice.
The active channel plan functions as a meter configuration file as well as a channel
lineup. An extensive selection of configuration elements establishes the type of
tests that can be performed on a particular channel for each channel in the plan.
Also inherent within a given channel plan are autotest configurations for analog,
digital, and DOCSIS services. Most configurations can be entered into the meter
directly or through the JDSU Test Productivity Pack (TPP) client/server appli-
cation software. Accessed via a PC, TPP manages channel plans and measurement
files for a collection of DSAM meters.
Networks with a history of multiple ownerships and diverse hardware arch-
itectures are not a problem for the DSAM-6000. Supervisors can create multiple
channel plans for a specified group of meters or one channel plan for the whole
network. The channel plans can be deployed with plan parameters locked when
needed. Specific plans are easily selected from Configure mode, or in many cases,
directly from within a measurement mode. After selecting an active plan, a
technician can check the top of the measurement screen to confirm that it is the
correct plan. The channel plan name is included any saved measurement file for
reference. Using the channel plan to configure an Autotest, multiple tests can be
run in a short period of time with only two button presses.
Return and Forward Path Testing and Maintenance
A cable plant is a two-way path of information, enabling communication between
equipment. As a vital link between the CPE and the CMTS, the return path must
be aligned and kept free of ingress and noise. With digital services, limiting noise
and ingress becomes even more important because their effect may not be noticed
until service has significantly degraded.
The DSAM-6000 is designed to test and maintain both the downstream forward
path and upstream return path. Its ability to sweep, along with conducting signal
level and quality measurements; ingress testing; verifying forward path signals;
and testing the level of ingress and noise provide the optimal approach to
maintaining the return path.
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DSAM-6000 DIGITAL SERVICE ANALYSIS METER
Applications