The most powerful network management software solution for cable networks is now even better. The newest version of Acterna's powerful NetMentor software, v3.0, provides new tools for cable operators to efficiently manage their existing plant, and provides HMS compliance for the future. V3.0 Features:

1. HMS Transponder Compatibility: NM3.0 is fully HMS compliant. Customers have the choice of using either polling or contention mode. NetMentor also allows customers to have both legacy and HMS transponders running on the same HEC modem.
   
   
2. Scheduled Measurements: NetMentor's processing of Scheduled Measurement sessions has been re-architectured to eliminate the limitation on the number of concurrent measurements. Now, customers have added flexibility and power in obtaining ongoing operational data from monitored devices.
   
   
3. Link Agent interface: Customers no longer need to use a separate application to configure the device information and alarm limits for headend equipment monitored through Link Agents. Acterna has added a series of screens within NetMentor's Configuration Wizard that simplify and speed up the process of adding and maintaining Link Agent devices.
   
   
4. Configuration Wizard: The reliability of the Configuration Wizard application (also known as Bulk/ Add/ Edit) has been enhanced with some improvements to the software code. It is much more robust and flexible with the release of NM v3.0.
   
   
5. Expanded HEC communications ports: Larger customers looking to add new devices to existing Headend Controllers can now add additional modems and serial ports. NM v3.0 supports an increase of 4 additional modems (BFMs) and 2 additional RS-485 serial ports.
   
   
6. Phasor Analyst v2.7 integration: The release of NM v3.0 includes the Phasor Analyst version 2.7 application, the integrated version of the Phasor return path management software. Phasor Analyst v2.7 includes the ability to use the SDA series of meters to remotely obtain information from the Phasor system.
   
   
7. ANSI Standard Alarm Colors: The color-coding used for displaying alarms in NetMentor's Notifier application has been changed to comply with the ANSI standard. This is a tremendous benefit for those customers who utilize multiple fault management systems and who must become familiar with the applicable color schemes.
   
   
8. GPM-4 Configuration Tool: Customers who wish to modify the inputs and outputs to the GPM-4 General Purpose Monitor can now make software changes themselves, without having to wait for a lengthy custom integration. This configuration tool allows users to modify the number and names of inputs, where they appear on the screen, and store settings for downloading to multiple devices.
   
   
9. Power Control Module for Alpha BPS interface: Operators looking to clarify alarms and operational data from the Alpha BPS power supply will now have access to the same level of information as other devices. NM v3.0 software will allow customers to migrate existing BPS information to this new interface, which provides enhanced capabilities as compared to previous software versions.

V3.0 Migration Path - Requirements, Issues

V3.0 Hardware System Requirements/Suggestions: In the process of upgrading the NetMentor software to version 3.0, customers should consider upgrading their computer system hardware at the same time. In addition to the increased requirements of the new operating systems (Windows2000 and Solaris v2.8) and database (Oracle v8.1.7), the

fact remains that older computer hardware is more prone to failure, and finding spare parts for an older system is very difficult. With improvements in computer performance and concurrent reductions in price, customers should take advantage of this opportunity to fully upgrade their system.

At the minimum, Acterna's Technical Assistance Center engineers recommend that customers replace or upgrade the following components:

• RAM
• Hard drives (if over 3 years old)
• Backup tape drives and tapes

The NetMentor v3.0 System Requirements Product Bulletin provides guidance for purchasing upgraded or new computer hardware for use with the NetMentor system. Please contact your Acterna salesperson or System Support manager to obtain this document if you do not already have a copy.

New computer hardware is faster, cheaper, and better than ever, and it will help ensure a healthy, reliable, and effective NetMentor Status Monitoring System!

V3.0 Pre-Upgrade Checklist:
Before upgrading to v3.0, be sure to read the following questions and make sure you, and your network, are ready:

• Is your software maintenance contract current?
• Have you checked the license limitations on your NetMentor Model? Are your Client licenses verified?
• Have you ordered your Acterna GSS Upgrade Package?
• Do you have a dedicated NetMentor system administrator? Do you have qualified IS resources committed to the upgrade?
• Have you met the system requirements? New hardware ordered, delivered and installed?
• Do you understand the migration path?
• Did you obtain previous versions of NetMentor?
• Did you obtain NetMentor software upgrade? Is it ready for installation complete with documentation?
• Do you have the Operating System software upgrade? Is it ready for installation?
• Did you obtain (or order from Acterna) your database software upgrade? Is it ready for installation?
• Have you checked naming conventions? Have you corrected them for specialty characters?
• Is your server database backed up?
• Are your IP addresses and computer information available?
• Are field technicians, call center, and management notified that v3.0 upgrade is about to occur?

For information on how Acterna's professional staff can assist you with the NetMentor 3.0 installation, see the "Customer Support and Training" section of this newsletter!