softing XG2 Performance Tester User Guide

softing XG2 Performance Tester

Product Information

Specifications

• Battery Type: Lithium-Ion
• Scope of Delivery: NetXpert XG2 main unit, NetXpert XG2 Active Remote unit, Power supplies, Hard carrying case, Patch cords CAT 6
• Main Unit Features: Display, Power on/off button, Active remote, Ventilation opening, Micro USB port, Charger, RJ45 port, Status LEDs, SFP and SFP+ port

Product Usage Instructions

Powering On/Off the NetXpert XG2

To power on the NetXpert XG2, press and hold the power on/off button located on the main unit. The device will turn on and the display will activate.

To power off the NetXpert XG2, press and hold the power on/off button again until the device shuts down.

Performing Active Network Tests

The NetXpert XG2 allows you to perform active tests on your network. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Connect Test and Measurement Ports

Connect the RJ45 test and measurement ports on the main unit to the corresponding ports on your network devices using appropriate cables.

Step 2: Configure Cable Settings

Access the cable settings menu on the device’s touch-sensitive screen. Set the appropriate parameters for your network cables, such as length and type.

Step 3: Define Cable Labels

Assign labels to your network cables for easy identification. Use the cable labeling feature on the device’s touch-sensitive screen to define the labels.

Step 4: Start the Test

Initiate the active network test by selecting the appropriate test option from the device’s menu. The NetXpert XG2 will analyze the network performance and provide test results.

Registering the Product

To register your NetXpert XG2, follow these steps:

1. Visit the website itnetworks.softing.com/XG2
2. Click on the “Product Registration” section
3. Fill out the required information, including the product serial number and your contact details
4. Submit the registration form

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I replace the battery of the NetXpert XG2?

A: No, the NetXpert XG2 is equipped with a high-quality Lithium-Ion battery that is designed to last for the life of the tester. It is not user serviceable. If you encounter any issues with the battery, please contact customer support for assistance.

Q: What is included in the standard scope of delivery for NetXpert XG2?

A: The standard scope of delivery includes the NetXpert XG2 main unit, NetXpert XG2 Active Remote unit, power supplies, hard carrying case, and patch cords CAT 6.

Q: How do I access detailed descriptions and user manual?

A: You can find detailed descriptions and the user manual for the NetXpert XG2 on our website at itnetworks.softing.com/XG2.

The NetXpert XG2 network cabling qualifier offers a complete solution to test copper and fiber network cabling. In a quick and easy way, the device tests and documents, whether a cabling link is able to support data rates of up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet in compliance with IEEE 802.3 by testing the data carrying capabilities of Ethernet network cabling up to 10Gb/s, determining the signal- to-noise ratio, and detecting faults in the cable wiring. This ensures that the cabling is able to support the speed capabilities of active equipment connected to the network. In this quick start guide you find the most important information for carrying out cable tests with the NetXpert XG2. For detailed descriptions please use the user manual on our website: itnetworks.softing.com/XG2

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

To ensure safe operations of the NetXpert XG2, follow the instructions carefully and observe caution and warning messages in this manual. Failure to observe caution and warning messages can damage the equipment and can result in severe injury or death.

Warning! To avoid possible fire, electric shock, or personal injury:

• Do not open the case; no user serviceable parts are inside.
• Do not modify the tester.
• Do not use the tester if it is damaged. Perform a visual inspection of the tester before use.
• The tester is not intended to be connected to active telephone inputs, systems, or equipment, including ISDN devices. Prolonged exposure to the voltages applied by these interfaces may damage the tester.
• The Lithium-ion battery pack is to be serviced by qualified personnel only. Only the original battery pack type should be used with this product.

WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

BATTERY
The NetXpert XG2 is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery.

• To charge the battery, plug the charger into the charging jack of the tester and then plug the charger into the power source. The battery of the NetXpert XG2 is not user serviceable.
• In the event that you need to remove the battery, remove the screws on the back panel of the NetXpert XG2 and unplug the battery. Be sure to remove all the leads connecting the battery to the device. Please make sure that the battery is charged overnight or at least for 5 hours. This will increase the accuracy of the battery status indication in the long run.
  Note: The high-quality Lithium-ion battery is designed to last for the life of the tester and should not need replacement. Lithium-ion batteries are hazardous waste and should be disposed of in compliance with the applicable waste regulations.

STORAGE
When not in use, store the NetXpert XG2 in the included protective case.
Do not expose the NetXpert XG2 to high temperatures (above 80°C) or humidity.

SCOPE OF DELIVERY
Standard scope of delivery for NetXpert XG2

• 1 NetXpert XG2 main unit
• 1 NetXpert XG2 Active Remote unit
• 2 Power supplies
• 1 Hard carrying case
• 2 patch cords CAT 6A

Scope of delivery for NetXpert XG2-PLUS Like standard delivery

• + 1 NetXpert XG2 Main unit
• + 1 power supply
• + 4 LC/LC duplex patch cord
• (Multimode OM4 und Singlemode OS2)
• + 2 LC/LC coupler
• + 1 RJ45 coupler

DEVICE DESCRIPTION

GENERAL OPERATIONS

For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.
Except for the power on/off function, the main unit is exclusively operated via the touch-sensitive screen.

ICONS

BUTTON FUNCTIONS
The NetXpert XG2 is turned on by pressing the power button. The button indicates the operating status by light signals:

• A short press of the power button will put the NetXpert XG2 into sleep mode.
• The NetXpert XG2 automatically enters sleep mode to conserve battery power if no input or activity is performed on the device.
• A long press of the power button will turn off the NetXpert XG2.
• Tap the Status icon to check the battery status of the Active Remote and to display the latest test result.
• Tap the Test button to start a qualification test from the Active Remote.

REGISTER DEVICE

Tap on the register device icon on the home screen to start registering process of your NetXpert XG. The feature set of the product does not include reporting feature. However, user can activate reporting feature by registering the product free of charge anytime.

• Serial number of the device is taken automatically and cannot be changed by the user. E-mail address must be entered to complete registration. Date of purchase and vendor information can be entered optionally.
• Product registration can be only done via W-Fi connection. Wi-Fi settings shortcut can be used to access to Wi-Fi settings screen to select an access point and establish an internet connection. Tapping on send button will send the information to Softing Server and activate reporting feature automatically.
• User will then receive e-mails with MySofting login credentials. More information on the product like latest firmware, release notes, manuals can be found on https://itnetworks.softing.com/my-softing/.

PASSIVE NETWORK TESTS

TEST RESULTS IN 10 STEPS

1. Set language
   Tap the Settings icon to configure the NetXpert XG2.
   Tap Language icon and select the desired language for the user interface. When changing the language, the keypad will be changed accordingly.

2. Set date and time
   Set the current time and date. These have to be entered in the defined format. You can choose the time format displayed – a 12-hour or 24-hour format.

3. Set standards
   Choose between Meters and Feet for the display of the length.
   The NetXpert XG2 supports various wiring standards. Choose TIA568A/B.
   This affects primarily the display of the wiremap.

4. Personalize your reports
   Must select More Options to access Reports screen. If you want to personalize your reports, you can enter the name of your company, of the technician doing the job, and a company logo.
   To include a company logo, tap Import logo. Connect a USB flash drive containing your company logo to the NetXpert XG2. A file browser will open, and you can navigate to your logo file on the USB flash drive and select the logo.
   Device must be registered on MySofting portal to enable the reporting feature.

5. Cable Test Settings
   From the home screen, tap Cable Test to display the cable test menu. Further project specific settings can be made here. Moreover, a new test can be started from here. At Cable Test there are several menu options. The last selection is displayed auto- matically (example below: menu option “Cable Test ”).
   A qualification test can directly be started by tapping the Test button.

6. Set project options
   Tap the Projects + Reports icon to make general settings for your test project.

7. Select cable type
   Tap the Cable Type icon on the left to select or configure different cable types.
   Important: Before running a test, it is necessary to select the correct type of cable, otherwise the result could be affected.

8. Cable labeling
   Tap the Cable Labeling icon to define the labeling of the individual measurements. This will help to retrieve and allocate the measurements more easily later on.

9. Set Reference
   To exclude test cables that are used to connect the NetXpert XG2 and the Active Remote, from the length measurement, you can have their length determined and automatically deducted from the total length of the cabling tested by the NetXpert XG2. The sequence of this process is explained for fiber optics on the screen of the main device using GIFs.

10. Cable Test
    When tapping the Cable Test icon, you will always return to the test screen.
    The test screen displays an overview over the cabling links to be tested/already tested. Moreover, you can view the results of the tests that are already completed and start a new test.
    Tapping the Test button will launch a complete cable test on the cable selected in Cable Type. The next free cable will be selected from the list or a new one is added below.

Copper

Fiber

All test results can be managed in the file manager.
For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.

ACTIVE NETWORKS TESTS

The NetXpert XG2 offers different possibilities for analyzing troubleshooting in active networks.

For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.

TOOLS ADDITIONAL TEST OPTIONS

NetXpert XG2 offers various individual cable tests for targeted troubleshooting or cable localisation.

Copper:

For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.

softing XG2 Performance Tester

Product Information

Specifications

• Battery Type: Lithium-Ion
• Scope of Delivery: NetXpert XG2 main unit, NetXpert XG2 Active Remote unit, Power supplies, Hard carrying case, Patch cords CAT 6
• Main Unit Features: Display, Power on/off button, Active remote, Ventilation opening, Micro USB port, Charger, RJ45 port, Status LEDs, SFP and SFP+ port

Product Usage Instructions

Powering On/Off the NetXpert XG2

To power on the NetXpert XG2, press and hold the power on/off button located on the main unit. The device will turn on and the display will activate.

To power off the NetXpert XG2, press and hold the power on/off button again until the device shuts down.

Performing Active Network Tests

The NetXpert XG2 allows you to perform active tests on your network. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Connect Test and Measurement Ports

Connect the RJ45 test and measurement ports on the main unit to the corresponding ports on your network devices using appropriate cables.

Step 2: Configure Cable Settings

Access the cable settings menu on the device’s touch-sensitive screen. Set the appropriate parameters for your network cables, such as length and type.

Step 3: Define Cable Labels

Assign labels to your network cables for easy identification. Use the cable labeling feature on the device’s touch-sensitive screen to define the labels.

Step 4: Start the Test

Initiate the active network test by selecting the appropriate test option from the device’s menu. The NetXpert XG2 will analyze the network performance and provide test results.

Registering the Product

To register your NetXpert XG2, follow these steps:

1. Visit the website itnetworks.softing.com/XG2
2. Click on the “Product Registration” section
3. Fill out the required information, including the product serial number and your contact details
4. Submit the registration form

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I replace the battery of the NetXpert XG2?

A: No, the NetXpert XG2 is equipped with a high-quality Lithium-Ion battery that is designed to last for the life of the tester. It is not user serviceable. If you encounter any issues with the battery, please contact customer support for assistance.

Q: What is included in the standard scope of delivery for NetXpert XG2?

A: The standard scope of delivery includes the NetXpert XG2 main unit, NetXpert XG2 Active Remote unit, power supplies, hard carrying case, and patch cords CAT 6.

Q: How do I access detailed descriptions and user manual?

A: You can find detailed descriptions and the user manual for the NetXpert XG2 on our website at itnetworks.softing.com/XG2.

The NetXpert XG2 network cabling qualifier offers a complete solution to test copper and fiber network cabling. In a quick and easy way, the device tests and documents, whether a cabling link is able to support data rates of up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet in compliance with IEEE 802.3 by testing the data carrying capabilities of Ethernet network cabling up to 10Gb/s, determining the signal- to-noise ratio, and detecting faults in the cable wiring. This ensures that the cabling is able to support the speed capabilities of active equipment connected to the network. In this quick start guide you find the most important information for carrying out cable tests with the NetXpert XG2. For detailed descriptions please use the user manual on our website: itnetworks.softing.com/XG2

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

To ensure safe operations of the NetXpert XG2, follow the instructions carefully and observe caution and warning messages in this manual. Failure to observe caution and warning messages can damage the equipment and can result in severe injury or death.

Warning! To avoid possible fire, electric shock, or personal injury:

• Do not open the case; no user serviceable parts are inside.
• Do not modify the tester.
• Do not use the tester if it is damaged. Perform a visual inspection of the tester before use.
• The tester is not intended to be connected to active telephone inputs, systems, or equipment, including ISDN devices. Prolonged exposure to the voltages applied by these interfaces may damage the tester.
• The Lithium-ion battery pack is to be serviced by qualified personnel only. Only the original battery pack type should be used with this product.

WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

BATTERY
The NetXpert XG2 is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery.

• To charge the battery, plug the charger into the charging jack of the tester and then plug the charger into the power source. The battery of the NetXpert XG2 is not user serviceable.
• In the event that you need to remove the battery, remove the screws on the back panel of the NetXpert XG2 and unplug the battery. Be sure to remove all the leads connecting the battery to the device. Please make sure that the battery is charged overnight or at least for 5 hours. This will increase the accuracy of the battery status indication in the long run.
  Note: The high-quality Lithium-ion battery is designed to last for the life of the tester and should not need replacement. Lithium-ion batteries are hazardous waste and should be disposed of in compliance with the applicable waste regulations.

STORAGE
When not in use, store the NetXpert XG2 in the included protective case.
Do not expose the NetXpert XG2 to high temperatures (above 80°C) or humidity.

SCOPE OF DELIVERY
Standard scope of delivery for NetXpert XG2

• 1 NetXpert XG2 main unit
• 1 NetXpert XG2 Active Remote unit
• 2 Power supplies
• 1 Hard carrying case
• 2 patch cords CAT 6A

Scope of delivery for NetXpert XG2-PLUS Like standard delivery

• + 1 NetXpert XG2 Main unit
• + 1 power supply
• + 4 LC/LC duplex patch cord
• (Multimode OM4 und Singlemode OS2)
• + 2 LC/LC coupler
• + 1 RJ45 coupler

DEVICE DESCRIPTION

GENERAL OPERATIONS

For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.
Except for the power on/off function, the main unit is exclusively operated via the touch-sensitive screen.

ICONS

BUTTON FUNCTIONS
The NetXpert XG2 is turned on by pressing the power button. The button indicates the operating status by light signals:

• A short press of the power button will put the NetXpert XG2 into sleep mode.
• The NetXpert XG2 automatically enters sleep mode to conserve battery power if no input or activity is performed on the device.
• A long press of the power button will turn off the NetXpert XG2.
• Tap the Status icon to check the battery status of the Active Remote and to display the latest test result.
• Tap the Test button to start a qualification test from the Active Remote.

REGISTER DEVICE

Tap on the register device icon on the home screen to start registering process of your NetXpert XG. The feature set of the product does not include reporting feature. However, user can activate reporting feature by registering the product free of charge anytime.

• Serial number of the device is taken automatically and cannot be changed by the user. E-mail address must be entered to complete registration. Date of purchase and vendor information can be entered optionally.
• Product registration can be only done via W-Fi connection. Wi-Fi settings shortcut can be used to access to Wi-Fi settings screen to select an access point and establish an internet connection. Tapping on send button will send the information to Softing Server and activate reporting feature automatically.
• User will then receive e-mails with MySofting login credentials. More information on the product like latest firmware, release notes, manuals can be found on https://itnetworks.softing.com/my-softing/.

PASSIVE NETWORK TESTS

TEST RESULTS IN 10 STEPS

1. Set language
   Tap the Settings icon to configure the NetXpert XG2.
   Tap Language icon and select the desired language for the user interface. When changing the language, the keypad will be changed accordingly.

2. Set date and time
   Set the current time and date. These have to be entered in the defined format. You can choose the time format displayed – a 12-hour or 24-hour format.

3. Set standards
   Choose between Meters and Feet for the display of the length.
   The NetXpert XG2 supports various wiring standards. Choose TIA568A/B.
   This affects primarily the display of the wiremap.

4. Personalize your reports
   Must select More Options to access Reports screen. If you want to personalize your reports, you can enter the name of your company, of the technician doing the job, and a company logo.
   To include a company logo, tap Import logo. Connect a USB flash drive containing your company logo to the NetXpert XG2. A file browser will open, and you can navigate to your logo file on the USB flash drive and select the logo.
   Device must be registered on MySofting portal to enable the reporting feature.

5. Cable Test Settings
   From the home screen, tap Cable Test to display the cable test menu. Further project specific settings can be made here. Moreover, a new test can be started from here. At Cable Test there are several menu options. The last selection is displayed auto- matically (example below: menu option “Cable Test ”).
   A qualification test can directly be started by tapping the Test button.

6. Set project options
   Tap the Projects + Reports icon to make general settings for your test project.

7. Select cable type
   Tap the Cable Type icon on the left to select or configure different cable types.
   Important: Before running a test, it is necessary to select the correct type of cable, otherwise the result could be affected.

8. Cable labeling
   Tap the Cable Labeling icon to define the labeling of the individual measurements. This will help to retrieve and allocate the measurements more easily later on.

9. Set Reference
   To exclude test cables that are used to connect the NetXpert XG2 and the Active Remote, from the length measurement, you can have their length determined and automatically deducted from the total length of the cabling tested by the NetXpert XG2. The sequence of this process is explained for fiber optics on the screen of the main device using GIFs.

10. Cable Test
    When tapping the Cable Test icon, you will always return to the test screen.
    The test screen displays an overview over the cabling links to be tested/already tested. Moreover, you can view the results of the tests that are already completed and start a new test.
    Tapping the Test button will launch a complete cable test on the cable selected in Cable Type. The next free cable will be selected from the list or a new one is added below.

Copper

Fiber

All test results can be managed in the file manager.
For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.

ACTIVE NETWORKS TESTS

The NetXpert XG2 offers different possibilities for analyzing troubleshooting in active networks.

For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.

TOOLS ADDITIONAL TEST OPTIONS

NetXpert XG2 offers various individual cable tests for targeted troubleshooting or cable localisation.

Copper:

For detailed descriptions please consult the user manual on our website.

HEADQUARTERS Softing IT Networks GmbH Richard-Reitzner-Allee 6 85540 Haar Germany
+49 89 45 656 660
info.itnetworks@softing.com

©2021 Softing IT Networks. In line with our policy of continuous improvement and feature enhancement, product specifications are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Softing and the Softing Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Softing AG. All other trademarks, registered or unregistered, are sole property of their respective owners.

References

• Softing IT Networks | contact us, we will be happy to help you - Softing IT Networks
• NetXpert XG | Datennetzwerke qualifizieren und testen bis 10G - Softing IT Networks
• NetXpert XG2 | Performance-Tester bis 10 Gbit/s - Softing IT Networks
• itnetworks.com/xg2
• Softing IT Networks | contact us, we will be happy to help you - Softing IT Networks

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