DEVELOPMENT OF A REMOTE-CONTROLLED BIT-ERROR-RATE TESTER SYSTEM FOR AVIAT NETWORKS

Abstract

Aviat Networks is a global provider of microwave networking solutions in public and private
operators of communications networks. Its main product line is repairing and servicing
microwave equipment outdoor units (ODU). The company follows 9 standard procedures in
repairing, and soaking process is the focus of this study. Soaking process measures the unit’s
reliability via Bit Error Rate (BER). The BER testing consumes 72 hours testing and requires
physical monitoring by an in-charge engineer. Added to this, if power interruptions occur, the
testing is discontinued and task will be repetitive causing a delay to its customers. This study
aims to develop a remote-controlled Bit-Error-Tester System that is operational and accessible
off-site, convenient, efficient, secured, monitors in real time, and configurable. The conduct of
the study had made use of interviews, observations, surveys, experimentation and evaluation
using ISO 9126. Software and hardware tools were used in configuring the network and
interfacing hardware. Results show that the actual monitoring performance of BER testing on
site as compared with the proposed BER testing off-site shows no significant difference, or the
proposed remote control monitoring displays 98% efficiency in its performance.
Furthermore, the adoptability of the system improved the soaking process by 30% during the period of testing and implementation. This implies an improvement in the soaking process
and consequently provides lead time service to the company’s customers. It may be considered
for future studies, the use of mobile phones for implementing the system.