The PVA-3000 introduces new measurement techniques for assessing LAN PHY Transmitter performance. These measurements enable a simple RJ-45 interface to the device-under-test and are performed on a live link – that is, the test instrument acts as the link partner while performing physical layer assessments. Transmitters and physical interfaces are characterized by methods that are completely independent of their receiver characteristics.

PVA-3000 metering, while very different from the traditional time-domain measurements associated with LAN PHY compliance testing, is actually analogous to the types of testing typically seen in wired or wireless RF communications channels. In this regard, both measurements and calibrations are readily automated and are based upon similar conceptual constructs as seen with ordinary spectral analysis and vector network analysis. Calibrations required for PSD, Echo Response, and Crosstalk are fully automated and require no external fixturing. PVA-3000 transmission measurements can also readily be used to assess passive link components including cabling and patch panels or to assess LAN signal integrity at any point in a LAN link.

The PhyView Performance Suite produces a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet report that adds graphical presentations of test results and colorized annotations of test limit excursions. Unlike a strict compliance test, many of the parameters captured by the PhyView Performance Suite are evaluated to “soft limits” that assess performance to generally fall into one of three bands: Green (or “Excellent”), Yellow (or “Acceptible”), and Red (or “Marginal”). The report is structured such that each port tested creates a specific workbook tab dedicated to that particular port. Testing a 24 port switch would therefore cause a 24 tab workbook to automatically pop up upon completion of testing. For those who must perform formal IEEE 802.3 physical compliance testing, PhyView Performance Reports provide an extremely efficient means to select worst-case (or best-case) performing ports to submit to intense testing:

Airtrace Ltd. currently provide full pre and post sales support for this product. Fo more information on our current support levels, processes and technical assistance standards please visit out support page. In the unlikely event that the issue cannot be solved quickly and efficiently by our staff, a hotline to the development team shall be made available.

Airtrace Ltd. are the sole distributor of the Sifos PSA 3000, PVA 3000 and PDA 300 products in the UK.

Telephone: +44 (0)1409 211 424

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