IT1721: Promina / NX1000: Operator and Maintainer

Course Length: 40 hrs

Prerequisites: User-level knowledge of computers and networking

Format: Onsite, online

The course covers the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Promina / NX1000 line of equipment in a deployable environment. Although the Promina is considered at end of life by the original manufacturer NET (now Sonus) and is legacy equipment, it is still in wide use and will need operators and maintainers for years to come.

This is an intensive hands-on course, covering all aspects of the Promina and supporting devices, including: NRZ-to-CDI converters, trunk encryption devices, link encryption devices, GPS timing receivers, fiber optic modems, media converters, private branch exchanges, long local telephony, VOIP, routers, switches, laptop computers, Pairgain LAN extenders and media converters, and Fireberd test units.

Topics Covered:

• Describe common terms and formats used in complex networks
• Describe the components and signal flow of a Promina nodes
• Understand the internal hardware options and external wiring requirements of Promina nodes
• Use a Promina interface terminal in order to configure parameters
• Conduct loop testing and queries
• Install, operate, and maintain a Promina node

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Communication

• Binary number representation
• Error protection
• Modulation formats
• Synchronous vs. asynchronous communication
• Networking overview

2. Introduction to the Promina Platform

• Promina and NX1000 models
• Backplanes, shelf types, and switching concept
• Data modules
• Electrical power
• Promina network overview

3. Promina Hardware

• Promina hardware overview
• Common equipment
• Feature cards

4. Timing and Synchronization

• Basis for timing a network
• Clock sources
• Internal and external clocking

5. Software Configuration and Operation

• Menu structure
• Node, card, and port configuration
• Querying a node
• Domains

6. Testing

• Software troubleshooting tools
• Hardware troubleshooting mechanisms
• Loops, tests, and diagnostics
• Timing problems

7. Practical Exercise

• Insert/remove cards
• Connect Local Control Terminal
• Debug power cabling
• Query/Modify Initial System Setup
• Configure Common Equipment Options
• Configure Feature Card Options
• Define/Modify Clock Reference
• Install Voice Circuits
• Tune Voice Port
• Configure Loops / Perform Diagnostics
• Understanding cut sheets
• Initialize database
• Connect nodes via trunk
• Connect LAN extensions
• Install GPS timing source
• Connect PBX
• Connect routers via HSD
• Query events
• Access Promina IP network
• Setting loops
• Encryption units with Line drivers

• Node configuration
• Card population
• Validation activities