Reference Guide
IMACS System Release 5.1.9
8-1
System Testing and Diagnostics
Introduction
Chapter 8
System Testing and Diagnostics
8.1
Introduction
This chapter describes the Integrated Access Systems’ comprehensive set of built-in
diagnostic tools that enable the operator to remotely troubleshoot and resolve problems.
Throughout the user card chapters in this system reference guide are brief explanations of
system testing and problem solving. However this chapter was designed to provide a “full
picture” of what this Integrated Access System is capable of providing.
8.2
Integral Test Capabilities
The Integrated Access System provides diagnostics capabilities to resolve problems. There
are system-generated alarm messages described in
Chapter 4. System Configuration and
Operation
, the integral diagnostics capabilities of this system include Bit Error Rate Testers
(BERTs) on data cards, tone generators on analog voice cards, the ability to manipulate the
analog leads and the digital signaling bits of voice circuits and extensive loopback generation
and detection capability on many system elements.
The ability to initiate loopbacks at various points in a circuit, coupled with the ability to
generate and receive test signals and to collect performance and error information, enable the
operator to systematically troubleshoot circuit problems. It allows the operator to determine if
the problem resides in the system, and whether the problem can be isolated down to a specific
Field Replaceable Unit (FRU) within the system. Since all of these diagnostic tools can be
operated from a remote VT100 terminal, troubleshooting begins immediately without
dispatching an on-site technician.
