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CABLE RANGER: Hybrid analyzers for HFC and DOCSIS 3.1 cable networks

The new DOCSIS 3.0 analyzers for hybrid Fibre-Coaxial networks CABLE RANGER from PROMAX provide all the required measurements to install and carry the network maintenance of those hybrid networks using fiber optics and coaxial cables at the physical layer.

DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 RF ready

The operating frequency range spans from 5 Mhz to 1700 Mhz, thus fulfilling DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 requirements. Nowadays, it is imperative to have an available frequency band up to 200 Mhz for the return path (upstream) and up to 1700 Mhz for the forward path (downstream) ensuring extra bandwidth for future network upgrades.

Almost immediate service activation

User can save DOCSIS channels from operator and measurements to take to certify proper service activation. Later, by pressing a single button, the analyzer performs an auto set-up and measures parameters that were saved as a preference.

In this way, it is possible to complete the service activation in a matter of seconds. That is the power of the TEST AND GO mode!

Built-in Cable Modem for DOCSIS 3.0

The built-in cable modem in the DOCSIS CABLE RANGER analyzers can be used to take measurements before registering into the DOCSIS network, e.g. the ranging process display or the return band attenuation measurement. It can also be used to take measurements under registered mode, such as PLR, Delay and Jitter, for IPTV and VoIP quality of sevice (QoS) assessment, by forwarding RTPS and UGS packets respectively onto the network. It displays as well all the IP addresses from network devices involved in the communication process.

Coming out with a great number of features

Furthermore, they are extremely easy to use thanks to its iconnographic menus. Among other features, the analyzer offers:

• Spectrum analyzer along with measurements and total input power measurement.
• SCAN feature in order to check the network signal presence at a glance.
• TILT tool for identifying and compensating RF network response imbalances along the frequency band.
• BER, MER and constellation diagram measurements.
• Registered and non-registered mode operation.
• PLR, Delay and Jitter measurements.
• Upstream signal generator intended to verify the return path, frequency and level agile (including as well a sweeping mode).
• Analog measurements and HUM.
• Input voltmeter.

Fiber optic input

HFC networks are using greater sections of fiber optic cables every time, getting closer to the end user. The HFC CABLE RANGER meters feature an optical input for optical measurements that allows fields technicians to take optical power measurements besides all the RF measurements related to RFoG (Radiofrequency Over Glass) as a result of the optical to RF converted included in the meter. In this mode, the optical power measurement is displayed along with the rest of measurements.

• DOCSIS downstream analyzer.
• Spectrum analyzer with simultaneous optical measurements.

Built-in web browser for activation and service management

With the objective of connecting to the operator’s network and carrying service activation or verification tasks, the HFC/DOCSIS CABLE RANGER analyzers include a web browser, preventing the technician from carrying an additional laptop. The CABLE RANGER are robust optical and DOCSIS network analyzers without removable parts, and they do not feature a hard drive which may lose data due to severe day-by-day field operation.

Profitable and user-friendly

The high contrast touch screen (up to 7” depending on model) ensures an unprecedented user experience in professional testing equipment. The user works faster and better.

It is possible to take screenshots at any moment, save them in the analyzer internal memory and transfer them to the PC with the objective of editing technical reports to be delivered to the management.

The HFC/DOCSIS CABLE RANGER analyzers are very lightweight (depending on model, around 1.5 kg or 700 g) and they are shock-resistant, its ergonomic design was inherited from PROMAX field strength meters which became an industry standard as a result of their features and usability.

PROMAX is a leading manufacturer of test and measurement systems, broadcast and TV signal distribution equipment. Our product lines include measuring instruments for cable TV, satellite TV, broadcast, wireless and fibre optics networks, FTTH and GPON analyzers. DVB-T modulators, IP streamers or IP converters (ASI, DVB-T) are among the company’s latest developments.