The Stealth Digital Analyzer (SDA) cable network measurement tools test a wide range of critical parameters, helping you prove and maintain your system’s performance. Advanced features include tools to support preventative maintenance programs for improving network quality. Applications include aligning amplifiers such as optical nodes, testing the performance of both forward and reverse path networks, finding and fixing sources of reverse path ingress, measuring signal quality (both continuous and bursty digital carriers), and fulfilling FCC and CENELEC proof-of-performance requirements. You can perform comprehensive troubleshooting and preventative maintenance tests with accuracy and ease using Acterna’s SDA products: • Quickly check frequency response, signal levels, hum, carrier-to-noise (C/N) ratio, depth of modulation, and monitor the general performance of the cable system • Perform tests without interfering with CATV subscribers' service • Evaluate system performance precisely and diagnose and eliminate problems quickly to maintain quality operation of your CATV system equipment. Acterna’s Stealth Sweep System consists of at least two major components: a headend transmitter and a field receiver. FIELD UNIT (SDA-5000) The SDA field receivers conduct a battery of signal level measurements, including a full scan of the cable spectrum to 1 GHz, in addition to performing sweep reception. A proprietary digital signal processing (DSP) technique measures hum and carrier-to-noise (C/N) ratio on modulated carriers. The receivers are streamlined, hand-held instruments weighing approximately 7.5 pounds. A 320 X 240 backlighted dot matrix LCD shows measurement data in both graphical and numerical formats. An extended-life Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery (typically 4-5 hours operating time) is standard. Features of the SDA-5000 include: • Fast scanning and spectrum analysis for ingress and noise detection (catch bursty noise as fast as 5 microseconds) • A desired/undesired TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) digital carrier analysis allowing you to see the quality and performance of cable modems and digital set-top boxes in the reverse path • Simple operation through the expanded and redesigned Navigator interface • Built in pre-amp for reverse path alignment and analysis that reduces the jumper cables and assorted boxes you must carry and simplifies alignment methods. The pre-amp also allows you to better see ingress and noise from high value test points. These features address advanced services such as Internet, IP telephony, digital video, QAM analysis, and DVB. Acterna offers current Stealth customers upgrade paths for units already purchased. Quickly find entry points for ingress and noise • Fast peak detection circuits see ingress from even transient noise sources • Programmable dwell-time in spectrum mode • “Dwell” on each frequency longer to find more of the noise more quickly • Zero span offers infinite dwell • Fast spectrum scanning makes searching for ingress interactive, eliminating the wait for the trace to ‘acquire’ • Observe noise signals clearly with the built-in pre-amp. Instead of needing to guess about a signal that is just above the noise floor, the built-in pre-amp allows you to clearly see and diagnose noise • Easily see the difference between meter-induced intermodulation and system intermodulation and CPD (common path distortion). A built-in low-pass filter strips away higher power forward path signals to examine just the reverse path • Save money, connections, and time. Carry just one box with all the tools needed to find ingress.