4-24 Service Guide E8361-90001
Troubleshooting PNA Series Microwave Network Analyzers
Rear Panel Troubleshooting E8361A
LAN Troubleshooting
Problems with the Local Area Network (LAN) can be difficult to solve. Software and
protocol problems can make it difficult to determine whether the analyzer’s hardware is
working properly, or if there is a problem with the LAN or cabling.
The purpose of this section is to determine if the analyzer’s hardware is functioning
properly. While the turn-on self-test verifies some LAN hardware functionality, it is limited
to internal testing only. Incorrect IP addresses will prevent proper operation. Improper
subnet masks may allow only one-way communication, while improper gateway addresses
may exclude outside LAN access.
Ping Command
The analyzer has the built-in capability of performing a “ping” operation. Ping will request
the analyzer to send a few bytes of information to a specific LAN device. That device will
then signal the analyzer that it has received the information. The analyzer computes the
approximate round trip time of the communication cycle and displays it. For a full test of
two-way communications, a ping test should be performed in two directions.
• First: you should ping from the analyzer to the local area network.
• Second: you should ping from the local area network to the analyzer.
NOTE In the second case, any other network device capable of sending a ping
command could be used, assuming it is connected to the same network. This
could be a computer or even another analyzer.
How to Ping from the Analyzer to the Local Area Network (LAN)
Follow the steps below to verify proper LAN operation (assuming you have a functioning
LAN). If no network LAN is available, see “Testing Between Two Analyzers” on page 4-26.
1. Make sure the IP address on the analyzer is set properly and that it is unique. If unsure
how to check the IP address, refer to the embedded help in the analyzer.
2. Make sure the subnet mask is 0.0.0.0. If not, note the current setting (to allow setting
it back later) and then set it to 0.0.0.0.
3. Find and note the IP address of another working LAN device on the same network.
Make sure this device is turned on, connected, and is functioning properly.
4. To ping the network device:
a. On the
System menu, click Windows Taskbar.
b. On the
Windows Taskbar menu, point to Programs, Accessories, and then click
Command Prompt.
c. The command prompt window is displayed.
d. At the prompt, type ping xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx
1
and press Enter on the front panel or
keyboard. Refer to Step 5 for the results of a successful ping.
1. The letters x represent the IP address of the other device on the network.