Caractéristiques principales
Applications
Description
Real-Time Analyzer for Interoperability Testing
Across an organization, there are often different network analyzer users with varying analysis needs; e.g., operators and vendors will each use test networks for distinct purposes. However, despite this difference, the source of the information remains in the same network interface, and therefore, all users are able to access the same lines—simultaneously and independently. With the PowerHawk, EXFO has overcome the challenges that come with simultaneous and independent use by developing a real-time, multi-user analyzer system with location-independent access.
Real-Time Multi-User System Requirements
Different users in the lab or in an operational network have different analysis needs. For instance, customer support is interested in solving problems, such as dropped calls within a certain area, and viewing the related statistics. On the other hand, service teams might be more interested in launching new services and observing how they are utilized by different subscriber segments. What’s more, network testing is more intensive now than with previous network generations.
To meet all the needs of an organization, the system in place must satisfy the various requirements of distinct user groups, while ensuring that they do not conflict with each other; i.e., one user group must not prevent others from accessing data when high-rate equipment is used.
Where to Use PowerHawk
PowerHawk is a powerful multitechnology, multi-user solution that enables high-volume testing of LTE, UTRAN, GERAN, CS/PS core and IMS networks. It is typically used in:
- Functional testing of network elements
- System verification
- Interoperability testing of a system comprised of multiple network elements
PowerHawk allows multiple users–up to ten simultaneously–to access the same interfaces in real time. It keeps up with the latest developments in network technology, supporting the latest industry specifications and vendor-specific implementations. PowerHawk is based on the world-leading M5 Analyzer software and offers an easy-to-use graphical user interface, automatic configuration and intelligent data analysis applications.
One Centralized Server Hardware, Multiple Users
EXFO interface adapters, licensing and client-analyzer software all operate on the same high-end PowerHawk server PC. Each client has the full M5 Analyzer software functionalities required to configure or analyze any network interface attached to the network interface adapters on the PowerHawk server. PowerHawk clients are accessed via a remote desktop connection. This all-in-one solution creates superior usability that is independent of the customer’s PC, operating system or location.
Reducing CAPEX
Instead of having multiple analysis tools in the lab, PowerHawk only requires one server hardware—allowing savings in PC technology investments and interface adapters. The location-independent usage allows the same hardware to be used from multiple locations. Ideally, the same test network and test equipment can be used for eight hours from Asia, eight hours from Europe and eight hours from the Americas—requiring only one third of the investment. Also, because users do not need high-end PCs, they can continue using any of their current PCs with any operating system.
Reducing OPEX
PowerHawk also reduces traveling costs. For example, a specialist abroad can perform detailed troubleshooting over a secure LAN instead of traveling onsite to help local engineers. With PowerHawk, test equipment maintenance is simplified—saving time and money. Software can be updated remotely in one shot, both for the server as well as for all customers. What’s more, user PCs are free of any EXFO license or software installation. Also, since cabling is more permanent, it only needs to be done once—for all customers.
Correlated Multi-Interface Signaling and User-Plane Analysis
PowerHawk features intelligent data analysis applications that enable real-time call and session tracing, LTE user-plane session and flow analysis, key performance indicator (KPI) generation and quality of service (QoS) measurements—with capability to drill down into the details of the decoded protocols.
Signaling Tracing and Analysis
The Call and Session Analysis application is a key troubleshooting tool that allows you to quickly see if there are any problems in the network.
- Real-time tracing and filtering of calls and sessions over the monitored interfaces in a multitechnology network
- Correlation of intersystem calls between LTE, UTRAN, GERAN, core and IMS
- Overall status of the calls and sessions in one view; each transaction has its own line with illustrative phase icons
- Full signaling details of a call, QoS values or related IP flows of an LTE session with one click
With the Protocol Monitor application, transactions can be analyzed to the last detail in real time and from multiple interfaces simultaneously.
- Message sequences for easy analysis of message flows
- Overall view of the network, with each event seen on its own line, along with its specific information and protocol content
- Easy access to complete signaling details for each event
- Correlated protocol messages between analysis views, making it easier to switch to another view