EXFO FTB‑1 with FTB‑880 NetBlazer — Technical Overview
Summary
The FTB‑1 is a compact, modular handheld test platform that accepts a wide range of optical, Ethernet, transport and copper modules. The FTB‑880 NetBlazer is a multiservice module for the FTB‑1 family that provides transport and Ethernet testing up to 10 Gbit/s with advanced BER, throughput and service‑activation test suites.
Platform and Module Highlights
- Modular design: FTB‑1 accepts hot‑swappable modules for flexible field configurations.
- Multiservice capability: FTB‑880 supports DSn/PDH, SONET/SDH and Ethernet testing, including BER and RFC/Y.1564 test suites.
- Field usability: Touchscreen plus keypad navigation, long battery life, and multiple connectivity options (USB, Wi‑Fi, optional cellular, Bluetooth).
- Reporting and management: Onboard report generation and compatibility with EXFO’s fleet management and result‑collection workflows.
Key Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
| Max Ethernet rate | Up to 10 Gbit/s |
| Transport interfaces | DSn/PDH, SONET/SDH (configurable per module) |
| Traffic tests | RFC‑2544, Y.1564 (EtherSAM), multistream traffic, BER |
| Latency/jitter testing | Supported with precision timestamping |
| Port types | SFP/SFP+ or fixed ports depending on module configuration |
| Display | Color touchscreen with physical keys for rugged field use |
| Connectivity | USB, GigE, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth; optional 3G/4G modem |
| Power | Rechargeable battery pack; AC adapter for bench use |
| Form factor | Handheld, ruggedized chassis for field environments |
Measurement and Feature Details
- Service activation: Automated test profiles for fast pass/fail verification of Ethernet and transport services.
- Throughput and SLA verification: Multistream traffic generation and RFC/Y.1564 profiles for validating bandwidth, loss, latency and jitter.
- BER and error analysis: Bit‑error‑rate testing across transport and packet interfaces with selectable patterns and thresholds.
- Protocol support: Layer‑2 and Layer‑3 test capabilities, VLAN and QoS testing, and advanced frame/packet manipulation for realistic service emulation.
- Data handling: Save and export test results and trace files; generate PDF reports on device for acceptance documentation.
Practical Considerations
- Lifecycle and support: The FTB‑880 has been superseded by newer modules; verify spare parts and calibration support if used for contractual testing.
- Calibration: For acceptance testing, confirm recent calibration certificates and firmware compatibility between module and host.
- Accessories: Recommended: power supply, SFP/SFP+ transceivers as needed, appropriate patch cables, and a protective carrying case.
- Pre‑test checks: Verify port optics, zero the power meter (if used), and run a short launch cable for accurate near‑end event characterization.
Typical Use Cases
- Service activation and SLA verification for Ethernet and transport links.
- Multiservice troubleshooting across legacy PDH/SONET/SDH and modern Ethernet networks.
- Field acceptance testing with standardized reports for customer handoff.